Andrea here, musing today about secondary characters. I find that one of the ways to keep a series fresh and engaging for readers is the addition of new secondary characters in each book. Not only do they add to plot twist possibilities, but they also add color and texture in their interactions with the main protagonists, allowing me to bring out facets of the “stars” in interesting ways. (Though often they aren’t really content to hover in the 
shadows, but get a bit pushy and keep demanding more time on center stage! Honestly, don't they know who's the boss here?)
It’s great fun to sit and think about what sort of friend will add to the mix of a story. It’s hard for me to explain how they come to mind . . . sometimes—like the fog in Carl Sandburg’s famous poem— they come in on little cat feet . . .
And sometimes they come in on big, hairy dog paws!
Okay, I confess that I already have Weasels in my Wrexford & Sloane Regency mystery series . . . actually they are two urchin boys, nicknamed The Weasels by Lord Wrexford for reasons I won’t go into here. Suffice it to say, the boys have a fiercely independent—and untamed—spirit, which can lead them into trouble. In my current WIP, the fourth book in the series, (the third comes out in September) they have acquired a canine companion-in-mischief.
Don’t ask me how. It just sort-of happened.
Once it became clear that a dog had to become become part of the menagerie, I needed to decide WHAT kind of dog. That actually was rather easy. In my mind, it simply had to be a big, rough-and-tumble canine, given the scraps the Weasels get into. That narrowed down the choices . . . he had to be big. I also had a vision of what said dog should look like . . . a resemblance to a wolf was highly desirable.
Hmmm . . .
Given that the book is set in Regency England, I also wanted a traditional British sporting breed. And then the picture became even clearer when I thought about two of the regular secondary characters in the series, who happen to be Scottish . . . And thus, Harper loped into the picture.
Harper is a Scottish Deerhound, a noble and ancient breed. Indeed, the "royal dog of Scotland" dates back to at least the 1st century CE—Roman pottery had been unearthed in Argyll from that era. There are also standing stones from the 7th century showing rough-coated hounds in a hunting scene. It was until the 16th century that the term “deerhound” was used. That’s because the dogs were bred as coursing hounds used by clan chieftains for hunting the giant red deer in the Highlands of Scotland. The deerhound's unflinching courage became legendary throughout Britain.
According to one history I read, Deerhounds were at one point so prized that anyone beneath an earl was prohibited from owning them. It seems that caused Greyhounds to become more popular in both Scotland and England, and Deerhounds were in danger of dying out. However, the prohibition on ownership seems to have been rescinded, and the breed once again flourished. By the nineteenth century, the dogs came to look much as they do today.
It's one of the tallest dogs. A male stands around 32 inches high at the shoulder and weigh 110 pounds. The rough coat can range from sandy taupe to a steely blue-grey. (The preferred hues for aficianadoes of the breed.)I love the look of a Deerhound, but another main reason I picked it is because despite its massive size and strength—and fierce jaws—the dogs have a wonderful reputation for gentleness and friendly disposition. They are considered wonderful family dogs.
I also discovered some other fun fact about the dogs: Sir Walter Scott owned a Deerhound named Maida, and the breed was a favorite of author Isak Dineson (Karen Blixon) when she lived in East Africa. There are many photographs of her with her dogs—her favorite was named Dusk. And a Deerhound is featured in two Harry Potter movies—Cleod plays Padfoot, the Animagus of Harry’s godfather, Sirius Black.
I had great fun with Harper, and he kept barking for a bigger role. Did he get his way? Ha—you’ll just have to wait and see! (The book, tentatively titled Murder at East India Wharf, will be out in spring/summer of 2020.
I love big dogs, and always get a kick out of watching the Working, Herding and Sporting breeds on television at the Westminster Kennel, What about you? Are you a dog lover? Do you have a favorite breed? Any favorite dogs as “characters” in novels?
What a wonderful surprise I got when I opened up the Word Wenches site this morning! That first photo looks just like our McGregor! He was a Heinz 57 type of dog and not nearly as big as a deerhound, more like a mid sized terrier. Wonderful personality and we miss him terribly. I love when authors use dogs or even cats, in their books. Always liked the series of “The cat who ….” with the two Siamese; love the dogs in Deborah Crombie’s mysteries and the duck in Louise Penney’s series. Even Holmes and Watson borrowed a dog to track a criminal in one of the first stories. They add so much.
What a wonderful surprise I got when I opened up the Word Wenches site this morning! That first photo looks just like our McGregor! He was a Heinz 57 type of dog and not nearly as big as a deerhound, more like a mid sized terrier. Wonderful personality and we miss him terribly. I love when authors use dogs or even cats, in their books. Always liked the series of “The cat who ….” with the two Siamese; love the dogs in Deborah Crombie’s mysteries and the duck in Louise Penney’s series. Even Holmes and Watson borrowed a dog to track a criminal in one of the first stories. They add so much.
What a wonderful surprise I got when I opened up the Word Wenches site this morning! That first photo looks just like our McGregor! He was a Heinz 57 type of dog and not nearly as big as a deerhound, more like a mid sized terrier. Wonderful personality and we miss him terribly. I love when authors use dogs or even cats, in their books. Always liked the series of “The cat who ….” with the two Siamese; love the dogs in Deborah Crombie’s mysteries and the duck in Louise Penney’s series. Even Holmes and Watson borrowed a dog to track a criminal in one of the first stories. They add so much.
What a wonderful surprise I got when I opened up the Word Wenches site this morning! That first photo looks just like our McGregor! He was a Heinz 57 type of dog and not nearly as big as a deerhound, more like a mid sized terrier. Wonderful personality and we miss him terribly. I love when authors use dogs or even cats, in their books. Always liked the series of “The cat who ….” with the two Siamese; love the dogs in Deborah Crombie’s mysteries and the duck in Louise Penney’s series. Even Holmes and Watson borrowed a dog to track a criminal in one of the first stories. They add so much.
What a wonderful surprise I got when I opened up the Word Wenches site this morning! That first photo looks just like our McGregor! He was a Heinz 57 type of dog and not nearly as big as a deerhound, more like a mid sized terrier. Wonderful personality and we miss him terribly. I love when authors use dogs or even cats, in their books. Always liked the series of “The cat who ….” with the two Siamese; love the dogs in Deborah Crombie’s mysteries and the duck in Louise Penney’s series. Even Holmes and Watson borrowed a dog to track a criminal in one of the first stories. They add so much.
When I was growing up we always had both cats and dogs. In my adult life I’ve also always had one or the other or both. I’m at an age now, that I cannot properly take care of a dog, so all I have is one (very loving) little kitty cat.
Every dog (except for one) we have ever had was a mixed breed. They are truly my personal favorites. My last dog, however, was a pure bred Golden Retriever. He suited my nature quite well. He was the most gentle, loving dog I ever had.
When it comes to fictional animals, my favorite character is Fitz, the loyal companion in Barbara Metzger’s A LOYAL COMPANION. He supplies musings at the beginning of each chapter – and they are hilarious.
When I was growing up we always had both cats and dogs. In my adult life I’ve also always had one or the other or both. I’m at an age now, that I cannot properly take care of a dog, so all I have is one (very loving) little kitty cat.
Every dog (except for one) we have ever had was a mixed breed. They are truly my personal favorites. My last dog, however, was a pure bred Golden Retriever. He suited my nature quite well. He was the most gentle, loving dog I ever had.
When it comes to fictional animals, my favorite character is Fitz, the loyal companion in Barbara Metzger’s A LOYAL COMPANION. He supplies musings at the beginning of each chapter – and they are hilarious.
When I was growing up we always had both cats and dogs. In my adult life I’ve also always had one or the other or both. I’m at an age now, that I cannot properly take care of a dog, so all I have is one (very loving) little kitty cat.
Every dog (except for one) we have ever had was a mixed breed. They are truly my personal favorites. My last dog, however, was a pure bred Golden Retriever. He suited my nature quite well. He was the most gentle, loving dog I ever had.
When it comes to fictional animals, my favorite character is Fitz, the loyal companion in Barbara Metzger’s A LOYAL COMPANION. He supplies musings at the beginning of each chapter – and they are hilarious.
When I was growing up we always had both cats and dogs. In my adult life I’ve also always had one or the other or both. I’m at an age now, that I cannot properly take care of a dog, so all I have is one (very loving) little kitty cat.
Every dog (except for one) we have ever had was a mixed breed. They are truly my personal favorites. My last dog, however, was a pure bred Golden Retriever. He suited my nature quite well. He was the most gentle, loving dog I ever had.
When it comes to fictional animals, my favorite character is Fitz, the loyal companion in Barbara Metzger’s A LOYAL COMPANION. He supplies musings at the beginning of each chapter – and they are hilarious.
When I was growing up we always had both cats and dogs. In my adult life I’ve also always had one or the other or both. I’m at an age now, that I cannot properly take care of a dog, so all I have is one (very loving) little kitty cat.
Every dog (except for one) we have ever had was a mixed breed. They are truly my personal favorites. My last dog, however, was a pure bred Golden Retriever. He suited my nature quite well. He was the most gentle, loving dog I ever had.
When it comes to fictional animals, my favorite character is Fitz, the loyal companion in Barbara Metzger’s A LOYAL COMPANION. He supplies musings at the beginning of each chapter – and they are hilarious.
I’ll mention the children’s series Hank the Cowdog by John R. Erickson which are narrated by Hank who is head of ranch security on his family’s ranch. My husband read aloud the first thirty-five books as our daughter was growing up. We have family sayings that originated from the series. (There are now over seventy books, I see!)
I’ll mention the children’s series Hank the Cowdog by John R. Erickson which are narrated by Hank who is head of ranch security on his family’s ranch. My husband read aloud the first thirty-five books as our daughter was growing up. We have family sayings that originated from the series. (There are now over seventy books, I see!)
I’ll mention the children’s series Hank the Cowdog by John R. Erickson which are narrated by Hank who is head of ranch security on his family’s ranch. My husband read aloud the first thirty-five books as our daughter was growing up. We have family sayings that originated from the series. (There are now over seventy books, I see!)
I’ll mention the children’s series Hank the Cowdog by John R. Erickson which are narrated by Hank who is head of ranch security on his family’s ranch. My husband read aloud the first thirty-five books as our daughter was growing up. We have family sayings that originated from the series. (There are now over seventy books, I see!)
I’ll mention the children’s series Hank the Cowdog by John R. Erickson which are narrated by Hank who is head of ranch security on his family’s ranch. My husband read aloud the first thirty-five books as our daughter was growing up. We have family sayings that originated from the series. (There are now over seventy books, I see!)
I must confess to not being much of a dog lover. Or dog owner, at least. I like it when my friends or family own them and I just play with them. My sister has an Australian cattle dog, aka blue heeler, and he has lots of energy. I do love throwing the frisbee for him to catch so that’s how I get my dog time in.
I seem to remember a mischief making dog in Heyer’s Frederica that kept me very amused.
I must confess to not being much of a dog lover. Or dog owner, at least. I like it when my friends or family own them and I just play with them. My sister has an Australian cattle dog, aka blue heeler, and he has lots of energy. I do love throwing the frisbee for him to catch so that’s how I get my dog time in.
I seem to remember a mischief making dog in Heyer’s Frederica that kept me very amused.
I must confess to not being much of a dog lover. Or dog owner, at least. I like it when my friends or family own them and I just play with them. My sister has an Australian cattle dog, aka blue heeler, and he has lots of energy. I do love throwing the frisbee for him to catch so that’s how I get my dog time in.
I seem to remember a mischief making dog in Heyer’s Frederica that kept me very amused.
I must confess to not being much of a dog lover. Or dog owner, at least. I like it when my friends or family own them and I just play with them. My sister has an Australian cattle dog, aka blue heeler, and he has lots of energy. I do love throwing the frisbee for him to catch so that’s how I get my dog time in.
I seem to remember a mischief making dog in Heyer’s Frederica that kept me very amused.
I must confess to not being much of a dog lover. Or dog owner, at least. I like it when my friends or family own them and I just play with them. My sister has an Australian cattle dog, aka blue heeler, and he has lots of energy. I do love throwing the frisbee for him to catch so that’s how I get my dog time in.
I seem to remember a mischief making dog in Heyer’s Frederica that kept me very amused.
Misti, you’re thinking of Heyer’s Baluchistan Hound, named by the hero in attempt to disguise the dog’s mutt-hood. *G* A very memorable canine!
Misti, you’re thinking of Heyer’s Baluchistan Hound, named by the hero in attempt to disguise the dog’s mutt-hood. *G* A very memorable canine!
Misti, you’re thinking of Heyer’s Baluchistan Hound, named by the hero in attempt to disguise the dog’s mutt-hood. *G* A very memorable canine!
Misti, you’re thinking of Heyer’s Baluchistan Hound, named by the hero in attempt to disguise the dog’s mutt-hood. *G* A very memorable canine!
Misti, you’re thinking of Heyer’s Baluchistan Hound, named by the hero in attempt to disguise the dog’s mutt-hood. *G* A very memorable canine!
Donna H, I agree that animal add warmth and texture to a story. I may be a little biased since my cats make frequent appearances in my books!
Donna H, I agree that animal add warmth and texture to a story. I may be a little biased since my cats make frequent appearances in my books!
Donna H, I agree that animal add warmth and texture to a story. I may be a little biased since my cats make frequent appearances in my books!
Donna H, I agree that animal add warmth and texture to a story. I may be a little biased since my cats make frequent appearances in my books!
Donna H, I agree that animal add warmth and texture to a story. I may be a little biased since my cats make frequent appearances in my books!
Mary T, dogs are wonderful, but much higher maintenance. Your little kitty cat sounds lovely. Just right.
Mary T, dogs are wonderful, but much higher maintenance. Your little kitty cat sounds lovely. Just right.
Mary T, dogs are wonderful, but much higher maintenance. Your little kitty cat sounds lovely. Just right.
Mary T, dogs are wonderful, but much higher maintenance. Your little kitty cat sounds lovely. Just right.
Mary T, dogs are wonderful, but much higher maintenance. Your little kitty cat sounds lovely. Just right.
Kareni, I’ve never heard to the series and they sound WONDERFUL! I’m sure your daughter adored them.
Kareni, I’ve never heard to the series and they sound WONDERFUL! I’m sure your daughter adored them.
Kareni, I’ve never heard to the series and they sound WONDERFUL! I’m sure your daughter adored them.
Kareni, I’ve never heard to the series and they sound WONDERFUL! I’m sure your daughter adored them.
Kareni, I’ve never heard to the series and they sound WONDERFUL! I’m sure your daughter adored them.
Also Georgette Heyer was a dog lover & one of hers was close to the Deerhound, her Irish Wolfhound, Misty Dawn. The dogs in her stories were used to great effect as secondary characters – not only as humorous foils, but in the case , for example, of Beaumaris in Arabella, Ulysses provides consolation & a convenient ear, and more in terms of helping the developing relationship. She displayed knowledge of the characteristics of the breeds in the way she employed them in her stories.
Also Georgette Heyer was a dog lover & one of hers was close to the Deerhound, her Irish Wolfhound, Misty Dawn. The dogs in her stories were used to great effect as secondary characters – not only as humorous foils, but in the case , for example, of Beaumaris in Arabella, Ulysses provides consolation & a convenient ear, and more in terms of helping the developing relationship. She displayed knowledge of the characteristics of the breeds in the way she employed them in her stories.
Also Georgette Heyer was a dog lover & one of hers was close to the Deerhound, her Irish Wolfhound, Misty Dawn. The dogs in her stories were used to great effect as secondary characters – not only as humorous foils, but in the case , for example, of Beaumaris in Arabella, Ulysses provides consolation & a convenient ear, and more in terms of helping the developing relationship. She displayed knowledge of the characteristics of the breeds in the way she employed them in her stories.
Also Georgette Heyer was a dog lover & one of hers was close to the Deerhound, her Irish Wolfhound, Misty Dawn. The dogs in her stories were used to great effect as secondary characters – not only as humorous foils, but in the case , for example, of Beaumaris in Arabella, Ulysses provides consolation & a convenient ear, and more in terms of helping the developing relationship. She displayed knowledge of the characteristics of the breeds in the way she employed them in her stories.
Also Georgette Heyer was a dog lover & one of hers was close to the Deerhound, her Irish Wolfhound, Misty Dawn. The dogs in her stories were used to great effect as secondary characters – not only as humorous foils, but in the case , for example, of Beaumaris in Arabella, Ulysses provides consolation & a convenient ear, and more in terms of helping the developing relationship. She displayed knowledge of the characteristics of the breeds in the way she employed them in her stories.
I like dog, but have an allergy to them! (I visit with a dog for an hour and have an extreme headacge fora day. That being the case, I don’t have much personal knowledge of them.
Dogs in books are a different matter! I cam enjoy them without aftereffects.
My love affair with bookish dogs began with the Alfred Peyson Terhune dogs. I grew up with “Lad, A Dog,” my husband with a different single volume. While we lived in New Jersey, we made sure to visit the memorial. It is merely a marker beside the lake, bbut SUCH a peaceful spot. We still own those two books (even though neither of us reread them often.)
I like dog, but have an allergy to them! (I visit with a dog for an hour and have an extreme headacge fora day. That being the case, I don’t have much personal knowledge of them.
Dogs in books are a different matter! I cam enjoy them without aftereffects.
My love affair with bookish dogs began with the Alfred Peyson Terhune dogs. I grew up with “Lad, A Dog,” my husband with a different single volume. While we lived in New Jersey, we made sure to visit the memorial. It is merely a marker beside the lake, bbut SUCH a peaceful spot. We still own those two books (even though neither of us reread them often.)
I like dog, but have an allergy to them! (I visit with a dog for an hour and have an extreme headacge fora day. That being the case, I don’t have much personal knowledge of them.
Dogs in books are a different matter! I cam enjoy them without aftereffects.
My love affair with bookish dogs began with the Alfred Peyson Terhune dogs. I grew up with “Lad, A Dog,” my husband with a different single volume. While we lived in New Jersey, we made sure to visit the memorial. It is merely a marker beside the lake, bbut SUCH a peaceful spot. We still own those two books (even though neither of us reread them often.)
I like dog, but have an allergy to them! (I visit with a dog for an hour and have an extreme headacge fora day. That being the case, I don’t have much personal knowledge of them.
Dogs in books are a different matter! I cam enjoy them without aftereffects.
My love affair with bookish dogs began with the Alfred Peyson Terhune dogs. I grew up with “Lad, A Dog,” my husband with a different single volume. While we lived in New Jersey, we made sure to visit the memorial. It is merely a marker beside the lake, bbut SUCH a peaceful spot. We still own those two books (even though neither of us reread them often.)
I like dog, but have an allergy to them! (I visit with a dog for an hour and have an extreme headacge fora day. That being the case, I don’t have much personal knowledge of them.
Dogs in books are a different matter! I cam enjoy them without aftereffects.
My love affair with bookish dogs began with the Alfred Peyson Terhune dogs. I grew up with “Lad, A Dog,” my husband with a different single volume. While we lived in New Jersey, we made sure to visit the memorial. It is merely a marker beside the lake, bbut SUCH a peaceful spot. We still own those two books (even though neither of us reread them often.)
Andrea – Great post! I love dogs, although I now have a cat. Contemporary romance author Debbie Burns does particularly well by the dogs in her books. For more books with doggie co-stars: Beth McKendrick – The Lucky Dog Matchmaking Service. Hilarious. Linda Howard’s Troublemaker. Nora Roberts’ The Search. Sarah Morgan’s New York, Actually. And Nancy Warren’s hilarious novella “The Fourteen Million Dollar Poodle.” Regarding cats – I love them, too. Of course Mary Jo’s cats. And Jenn McKinlay features a lovely cat in her contemporary romance, The Good Ones. But I love all kinds of critters. At least one historical romance has a hedgehog, and I remember a contemporary romance that had a very friendly alligator. Another even had a companion snake. Who knew? Give me critters and I’m a happy camper.
Andrea – Great post! I love dogs, although I now have a cat. Contemporary romance author Debbie Burns does particularly well by the dogs in her books. For more books with doggie co-stars: Beth McKendrick – The Lucky Dog Matchmaking Service. Hilarious. Linda Howard’s Troublemaker. Nora Roberts’ The Search. Sarah Morgan’s New York, Actually. And Nancy Warren’s hilarious novella “The Fourteen Million Dollar Poodle.” Regarding cats – I love them, too. Of course Mary Jo’s cats. And Jenn McKinlay features a lovely cat in her contemporary romance, The Good Ones. But I love all kinds of critters. At least one historical romance has a hedgehog, and I remember a contemporary romance that had a very friendly alligator. Another even had a companion snake. Who knew? Give me critters and I’m a happy camper.
Andrea – Great post! I love dogs, although I now have a cat. Contemporary romance author Debbie Burns does particularly well by the dogs in her books. For more books with doggie co-stars: Beth McKendrick – The Lucky Dog Matchmaking Service. Hilarious. Linda Howard’s Troublemaker. Nora Roberts’ The Search. Sarah Morgan’s New York, Actually. And Nancy Warren’s hilarious novella “The Fourteen Million Dollar Poodle.” Regarding cats – I love them, too. Of course Mary Jo’s cats. And Jenn McKinlay features a lovely cat in her contemporary romance, The Good Ones. But I love all kinds of critters. At least one historical romance has a hedgehog, and I remember a contemporary romance that had a very friendly alligator. Another even had a companion snake. Who knew? Give me critters and I’m a happy camper.
Andrea – Great post! I love dogs, although I now have a cat. Contemporary romance author Debbie Burns does particularly well by the dogs in her books. For more books with doggie co-stars: Beth McKendrick – The Lucky Dog Matchmaking Service. Hilarious. Linda Howard’s Troublemaker. Nora Roberts’ The Search. Sarah Morgan’s New York, Actually. And Nancy Warren’s hilarious novella “The Fourteen Million Dollar Poodle.” Regarding cats – I love them, too. Of course Mary Jo’s cats. And Jenn McKinlay features a lovely cat in her contemporary romance, The Good Ones. But I love all kinds of critters. At least one historical romance has a hedgehog, and I remember a contemporary romance that had a very friendly alligator. Another even had a companion snake. Who knew? Give me critters and I’m a happy camper.
Andrea – Great post! I love dogs, although I now have a cat. Contemporary romance author Debbie Burns does particularly well by the dogs in her books. For more books with doggie co-stars: Beth McKendrick – The Lucky Dog Matchmaking Service. Hilarious. Linda Howard’s Troublemaker. Nora Roberts’ The Search. Sarah Morgan’s New York, Actually. And Nancy Warren’s hilarious novella “The Fourteen Million Dollar Poodle.” Regarding cats – I love them, too. Of course Mary Jo’s cats. And Jenn McKinlay features a lovely cat in her contemporary romance, The Good Ones. But I love all kinds of critters. At least one historical romance has a hedgehog, and I remember a contemporary romance that had a very friendly alligator. Another even had a companion snake. Who knew? Give me critters and I’m a happy camper.
Animals really do add a unique warmth to a story—as they do to real life.
I love any sort of animal in a story, so I guess it was inevitable that one would work its way into the plot—especially with two adventurous boys as part of the mix!
Animals really do add a unique warmth to a story—as they do to real life.
I love any sort of animal in a story, so I guess it was inevitable that one would work its way into the plot—especially with two adventurous boys as part of the mix!
Animals really do add a unique warmth to a story—as they do to real life.
I love any sort of animal in a story, so I guess it was inevitable that one would work its way into the plot—especially with two adventurous boys as part of the mix!
Animals really do add a unique warmth to a story—as they do to real life.
I love any sort of animal in a story, so I guess it was inevitable that one would work its way into the plot—especially with two adventurous boys as part of the mix!
Animals really do add a unique warmth to a story—as they do to real life.
I love any sort of animal in a story, so I guess it was inevitable that one would work its way into the plot—especially with two adventurous boys as part of the mix!
And I can’t wait to see your GORGEOUS new feline make her debut!
And I can’t wait to see your GORGEOUS new feline make her debut!
And I can’t wait to see your GORGEOUS new feline make her debut!
And I can’t wait to see your GORGEOUS new feline make her debut!
And I can’t wait to see your GORGEOUS new feline make her debut!
Oh, I love Barbara Metzger’s dogs! She also had Hero, who played some wonderful roles in her Regencies.
Oh, I love Barbara Metzger’s dogs! She also had Hero, who played some wonderful roles in her Regencies.
Oh, I love Barbara Metzger’s dogs! She also had Hero, who played some wonderful roles in her Regencies.
Oh, I love Barbara Metzger’s dogs! She also had Hero, who played some wonderful roles in her Regencies.
Oh, I love Barbara Metzger’s dogs! She also had Hero, who played some wonderful roles in her Regencies.
Kareni, I haven’t heard of those books, but what wonderful reads for a child. I’ll bet she has very lovely memories of those shared stories!
Kareni, I haven’t heard of those books, but what wonderful reads for a child. I’ll bet she has very lovely memories of those shared stories!
Kareni, I haven’t heard of those books, but what wonderful reads for a child. I’ll bet she has very lovely memories of those shared stories!
Kareni, I haven’t heard of those books, but what wonderful reads for a child. I’ll bet she has very lovely memories of those shared stories!
Kareni, I haven’t heard of those books, but what wonderful reads for a child. I’ll bet she has very lovely memories of those shared stories!
Oh, yes, Heyer’s hound was very memorable!
Any of the herding dogs have a LOT of energy! They really do need to chase balls or frisbees. Or have children to exhaust them!
Oh, yes, Heyer’s hound was very memorable!
Any of the herding dogs have a LOT of energy! They really do need to chase balls or frisbees. Or have children to exhaust them!
Oh, yes, Heyer’s hound was very memorable!
Any of the herding dogs have a LOT of energy! They really do need to chase balls or frisbees. Or have children to exhaust them!
Oh, yes, Heyer’s hound was very memorable!
Any of the herding dogs have a LOT of energy! They really do need to chase balls or frisbees. Or have children to exhaust them!
Oh, yes, Heyer’s hound was very memorable!
Any of the herding dogs have a LOT of energy! They really do need to chase balls or frisbees. Or have children to exhaust them!
I didn’t know that about Heyer, Jan! Thanks for letting me know. Dogs (and any animals) really do provide a lovely way for a hero/heroine to have internal revealing of feelings. THere’s no more loyal and sympathetic ear that a beloved pet!
I didn’t know that about Heyer, Jan! Thanks for letting me know. Dogs (and any animals) really do provide a lovely way for a hero/heroine to have internal revealing of feelings. THere’s no more loyal and sympathetic ear that a beloved pet!
I didn’t know that about Heyer, Jan! Thanks for letting me know. Dogs (and any animals) really do provide a lovely way for a hero/heroine to have internal revealing of feelings. THere’s no more loyal and sympathetic ear that a beloved pet!
I didn’t know that about Heyer, Jan! Thanks for letting me know. Dogs (and any animals) really do provide a lovely way for a hero/heroine to have internal revealing of feelings. THere’s no more loyal and sympathetic ear that a beloved pet!
I didn’t know that about Heyer, Jan! Thanks for letting me know. Dogs (and any animals) really do provide a lovely way for a hero/heroine to have internal revealing of feelings. THere’s no more loyal and sympathetic ear that a beloved pet!
So sorry about the allegies, Sue. A “beastly” headache is no fun, so totally understand your forgoing any contact with dogs.
I remember Terhune’s books, too! Wonderful! Clearly, literary canines make the best companions for you!
So sorry about the allegies, Sue. A “beastly” headache is no fun, so totally understand your forgoing any contact with dogs.
I remember Terhune’s books, too! Wonderful! Clearly, literary canines make the best companions for you!
So sorry about the allegies, Sue. A “beastly” headache is no fun, so totally understand your forgoing any contact with dogs.
I remember Terhune’s books, too! Wonderful! Clearly, literary canines make the best companions for you!
So sorry about the allegies, Sue. A “beastly” headache is no fun, so totally understand your forgoing any contact with dogs.
I remember Terhune’s books, too! Wonderful! Clearly, literary canines make the best companions for you!
So sorry about the allegies, Sue. A “beastly” headache is no fun, so totally understand your forgoing any contact with dogs.
I remember Terhune’s books, too! Wonderful! Clearly, literary canines make the best companions for you!
Thanks for such a wonderful list, Binnie!
I’m happy to see any creature as a secondary characters . . .though I have to confess, a snake might take some convincing for me to warm up to the idea!
I vaguely remember the hedgehog, but can’t think of the book. And of course, Mary Jo’s cats are such fun!
Thanks for such a wonderful list, Binnie!
I’m happy to see any creature as a secondary characters . . .though I have to confess, a snake might take some convincing for me to warm up to the idea!
I vaguely remember the hedgehog, but can’t think of the book. And of course, Mary Jo’s cats are such fun!
Thanks for such a wonderful list, Binnie!
I’m happy to see any creature as a secondary characters . . .though I have to confess, a snake might take some convincing for me to warm up to the idea!
I vaguely remember the hedgehog, but can’t think of the book. And of course, Mary Jo’s cats are such fun!
Thanks for such a wonderful list, Binnie!
I’m happy to see any creature as a secondary characters . . .though I have to confess, a snake might take some convincing for me to warm up to the idea!
I vaguely remember the hedgehog, but can’t think of the book. And of course, Mary Jo’s cats are such fun!
Thanks for such a wonderful list, Binnie!
I’m happy to see any creature as a secondary characters . . .though I have to confess, a snake might take some convincing for me to warm up to the idea!
I vaguely remember the hedgehog, but can’t think of the book. And of course, Mary Jo’s cats are such fun!
Oh my word Andrea, my heart skipped a beat when I opened the blog and saw what was to all intents and purposes, a beautiful Irish Wolfhound and the image of our beloved Fionn. The Deerhound looks exactly the same. Fionn was the exact colour of the dog you pictured here. We lost him two weeks before Christmas last year and we miss him everyday. Had a lovely gentle nature and adored children. He loved my nephew and every time he came to visit Fionn would be stuck to him like glue. Thank you for bringing the memory to the fore.
Looking forward to the new Wrexford and Sloane.
Oh my word Andrea, my heart skipped a beat when I opened the blog and saw what was to all intents and purposes, a beautiful Irish Wolfhound and the image of our beloved Fionn. The Deerhound looks exactly the same. Fionn was the exact colour of the dog you pictured here. We lost him two weeks before Christmas last year and we miss him everyday. Had a lovely gentle nature and adored children. He loved my nephew and every time he came to visit Fionn would be stuck to him like glue. Thank you for bringing the memory to the fore.
Looking forward to the new Wrexford and Sloane.
Oh my word Andrea, my heart skipped a beat when I opened the blog and saw what was to all intents and purposes, a beautiful Irish Wolfhound and the image of our beloved Fionn. The Deerhound looks exactly the same. Fionn was the exact colour of the dog you pictured here. We lost him two weeks before Christmas last year and we miss him everyday. Had a lovely gentle nature and adored children. He loved my nephew and every time he came to visit Fionn would be stuck to him like glue. Thank you for bringing the memory to the fore.
Looking forward to the new Wrexford and Sloane.
Oh my word Andrea, my heart skipped a beat when I opened the blog and saw what was to all intents and purposes, a beautiful Irish Wolfhound and the image of our beloved Fionn. The Deerhound looks exactly the same. Fionn was the exact colour of the dog you pictured here. We lost him two weeks before Christmas last year and we miss him everyday. Had a lovely gentle nature and adored children. He loved my nephew and every time he came to visit Fionn would be stuck to him like glue. Thank you for bringing the memory to the fore.
Looking forward to the new Wrexford and Sloane.
Oh my word Andrea, my heart skipped a beat when I opened the blog and saw what was to all intents and purposes, a beautiful Irish Wolfhound and the image of our beloved Fionn. The Deerhound looks exactly the same. Fionn was the exact colour of the dog you pictured here. We lost him two weeks before Christmas last year and we miss him everyday. Had a lovely gentle nature and adored children. He loved my nephew and every time he came to visit Fionn would be stuck to him like glue. Thank you for bringing the memory to the fore.
Looking forward to the new Wrexford and Sloane.
Oh, Teresa, Fionn sounds like such a special dog. I’m sure you miss him fiercely.
Yes, Deerhounds and Wolfhounds really do look very similar! I’m sure they must come from common stock. I think Deerhounds may be a little less stocky, but not exactly sure.)
It was a hard choice on whether to to make Harper Irish . . . but as McClellan and Tyler, two of the other secondary are Scottish, it seemed to make sense that Wrexford would have a Scottish hound.
Oh, Teresa, Fionn sounds like such a special dog. I’m sure you miss him fiercely.
Yes, Deerhounds and Wolfhounds really do look very similar! I’m sure they must come from common stock. I think Deerhounds may be a little less stocky, but not exactly sure.)
It was a hard choice on whether to to make Harper Irish . . . but as McClellan and Tyler, two of the other secondary are Scottish, it seemed to make sense that Wrexford would have a Scottish hound.
Oh, Teresa, Fionn sounds like such a special dog. I’m sure you miss him fiercely.
Yes, Deerhounds and Wolfhounds really do look very similar! I’m sure they must come from common stock. I think Deerhounds may be a little less stocky, but not exactly sure.)
It was a hard choice on whether to to make Harper Irish . . . but as McClellan and Tyler, two of the other secondary are Scottish, it seemed to make sense that Wrexford would have a Scottish hound.
Oh, Teresa, Fionn sounds like such a special dog. I’m sure you miss him fiercely.
Yes, Deerhounds and Wolfhounds really do look very similar! I’m sure they must come from common stock. I think Deerhounds may be a little less stocky, but not exactly sure.)
It was a hard choice on whether to to make Harper Irish . . . but as McClellan and Tyler, two of the other secondary are Scottish, it seemed to make sense that Wrexford would have a Scottish hound.
Oh, Teresa, Fionn sounds like such a special dog. I’m sure you miss him fiercely.
Yes, Deerhounds and Wolfhounds really do look very similar! I’m sure they must come from common stock. I think Deerhounds may be a little less stocky, but not exactly sure.)
It was a hard choice on whether to to make Harper Irish . . . but as McClellan and Tyler, two of the other secondary are Scottish, it seemed to make sense that Wrexford would have a Scottish hound.
Thank you so much for the post.
I have lived with Boxers and Cockers most of my life. I am very fond of athletic dogs. Both of these breeds are active, silly, good companions and generally very good friends.
When my final 2 rescued Boxer girls both died within a few months of one another I was so heart broken I did not want another dog.
Life is not always what we expect.
On 2 different occasions on a neighborhood website I saw a picture of a tiny dog who had been abandoned by his owner. Thrown out of a vehicle. After the second time, I could not allow that to happen again
So, now I live with a Pekingese – a small, very furry, male dog. And this breed does not do anything. No athletes here. He was not what I wanted, but he is just what I needed. He does not cuddle. He is afraid of many different things. But, I love him, and I believe he loves me too….it may just be the dog treats.
I like books which have dogs in them. I want dogs who are realistic and good friends to the characters who live with them.
Thank you so much for the post.
I have lived with Boxers and Cockers most of my life. I am very fond of athletic dogs. Both of these breeds are active, silly, good companions and generally very good friends.
When my final 2 rescued Boxer girls both died within a few months of one another I was so heart broken I did not want another dog.
Life is not always what we expect.
On 2 different occasions on a neighborhood website I saw a picture of a tiny dog who had been abandoned by his owner. Thrown out of a vehicle. After the second time, I could not allow that to happen again
So, now I live with a Pekingese – a small, very furry, male dog. And this breed does not do anything. No athletes here. He was not what I wanted, but he is just what I needed. He does not cuddle. He is afraid of many different things. But, I love him, and I believe he loves me too….it may just be the dog treats.
I like books which have dogs in them. I want dogs who are realistic and good friends to the characters who live with them.
Thank you so much for the post.
I have lived with Boxers and Cockers most of my life. I am very fond of athletic dogs. Both of these breeds are active, silly, good companions and generally very good friends.
When my final 2 rescued Boxer girls both died within a few months of one another I was so heart broken I did not want another dog.
Life is not always what we expect.
On 2 different occasions on a neighborhood website I saw a picture of a tiny dog who had been abandoned by his owner. Thrown out of a vehicle. After the second time, I could not allow that to happen again
So, now I live with a Pekingese – a small, very furry, male dog. And this breed does not do anything. No athletes here. He was not what I wanted, but he is just what I needed. He does not cuddle. He is afraid of many different things. But, I love him, and I believe he loves me too….it may just be the dog treats.
I like books which have dogs in them. I want dogs who are realistic and good friends to the characters who live with them.
Thank you so much for the post.
I have lived with Boxers and Cockers most of my life. I am very fond of athletic dogs. Both of these breeds are active, silly, good companions and generally very good friends.
When my final 2 rescued Boxer girls both died within a few months of one another I was so heart broken I did not want another dog.
Life is not always what we expect.
On 2 different occasions on a neighborhood website I saw a picture of a tiny dog who had been abandoned by his owner. Thrown out of a vehicle. After the second time, I could not allow that to happen again
So, now I live with a Pekingese – a small, very furry, male dog. And this breed does not do anything. No athletes here. He was not what I wanted, but he is just what I needed. He does not cuddle. He is afraid of many different things. But, I love him, and I believe he loves me too….it may just be the dog treats.
I like books which have dogs in them. I want dogs who are realistic and good friends to the characters who live with them.
Thank you so much for the post.
I have lived with Boxers and Cockers most of my life. I am very fond of athletic dogs. Both of these breeds are active, silly, good companions and generally very good friends.
When my final 2 rescued Boxer girls both died within a few months of one another I was so heart broken I did not want another dog.
Life is not always what we expect.
On 2 different occasions on a neighborhood website I saw a picture of a tiny dog who had been abandoned by his owner. Thrown out of a vehicle. After the second time, I could not allow that to happen again
So, now I live with a Pekingese – a small, very furry, male dog. And this breed does not do anything. No athletes here. He was not what I wanted, but he is just what I needed. He does not cuddle. He is afraid of many different things. But, I love him, and I believe he loves me too….it may just be the dog treats.
I like books which have dogs in them. I want dogs who are realistic and good friends to the characters who live with them.
Annette,hugs on your boxers. Losing a beloved pet is wrenching. They become very special parts of our lives, and it hurts to lose them.
It sounds like your and your Pekinese found each other at just the right moment. Love and friendship sometimes comes when it’s least expected—which makes it all the more beautiful!
Annette,hugs on your boxers. Losing a beloved pet is wrenching. They become very special parts of our lives, and it hurts to lose them.
It sounds like your and your Pekinese found each other at just the right moment. Love and friendship sometimes comes when it’s least expected—which makes it all the more beautiful!
Annette,hugs on your boxers. Losing a beloved pet is wrenching. They become very special parts of our lives, and it hurts to lose them.
It sounds like your and your Pekinese found each other at just the right moment. Love and friendship sometimes comes when it’s least expected—which makes it all the more beautiful!
Annette,hugs on your boxers. Losing a beloved pet is wrenching. They become very special parts of our lives, and it hurts to lose them.
It sounds like your and your Pekinese found each other at just the right moment. Love and friendship sometimes comes when it’s least expected—which makes it all the more beautiful!
Annette,hugs on your boxers. Losing a beloved pet is wrenching. They become very special parts of our lives, and it hurts to lose them.
It sounds like your and your Pekinese found each other at just the right moment. Love and friendship sometimes comes when it’s least expected—which makes it all the more beautiful!
Annette, I so identify! When my last animal (a cat) passed away almost a year ago, I said “never again.” But my sister talked me into visiting a shelter – just to look.
Well, I came home with the sweetest little calico kitten you would ever want to meet. So affectionate. The perfect fur friend for this time in my life.
I think sometimes our animals pick us.
Annette, I so identify! When my last animal (a cat) passed away almost a year ago, I said “never again.” But my sister talked me into visiting a shelter – just to look.
Well, I came home with the sweetest little calico kitten you would ever want to meet. So affectionate. The perfect fur friend for this time in my life.
I think sometimes our animals pick us.
Annette, I so identify! When my last animal (a cat) passed away almost a year ago, I said “never again.” But my sister talked me into visiting a shelter – just to look.
Well, I came home with the sweetest little calico kitten you would ever want to meet. So affectionate. The perfect fur friend for this time in my life.
I think sometimes our animals pick us.
Annette, I so identify! When my last animal (a cat) passed away almost a year ago, I said “never again.” But my sister talked me into visiting a shelter – just to look.
Well, I came home with the sweetest little calico kitten you would ever want to meet. So affectionate. The perfect fur friend for this time in my life.
I think sometimes our animals pick us.
Annette, I so identify! When my last animal (a cat) passed away almost a year ago, I said “never again.” But my sister talked me into visiting a shelter – just to look.
Well, I came home with the sweetest little calico kitten you would ever want to meet. So affectionate. The perfect fur friend for this time in my life.
I think sometimes our animals pick us.