#BookReviews: Prehistoric Humans & The Leonberger Dog Breed!

Photo by invisiblepower on Pexels.com

Writing reviews may be ‘snail’ slow, but I’m getting there after finishing two more: Endangered Species by Jacqui Murray and The Life and Times of Le Bronco von der Lowenhohle by Thomas Wikman! These are two very different books, but they’re both very good! So, here we go…

Endangered Species is my first glimpse into Jacqui Murray’s incredible storytelling and is book one in the trilogy, Savage Land. After reading many reviews on blogs, I was intrigued and immediately bought my paperback. The story takes place 75,000 years ago in the Altai Mountains of Siberia. Survival is key for two bands of prehistoric humans: the Neanderthals known as the People, and Homo Sapiens known as the Tall Ones. Yet in the midst of hunting to simply exist, Mother Nature has her way of disrupting their normal routines. So, it will take cleverness and problem solving to navigate around ‘her’ temper.

Murray’s characters find themselves in similar situations as humans today and have comparable traits such as kindness and hard-working. The first character I met was Shanadar aka Jun, a young man who was banished by his tribe. His self-confidence needed a boost, and then he began seeing Xhosa in visions, a spiritual advisor who chose him to save Yu’ung, the Alpha in the People’s tribe. Yu’ung wasn’t afraid to be unique, but she wasn’t sure if she had the courage needed to be the Alpha. I was fascinated by Jun’s character development and hers, and this was only the beginning.

From the first page to the end, I was captivated. I loved the Canis (canines as in wolves), Ump and White Streak, who protected Jun on his journey, and essentially became family because they made him feel like he belonged. Doesn’t everyone long for this feeling? Empathy, dislike, and fear are a handful of emotions I felt while on this prehistoric adventure – a riveting race with Mother Nature.

The research Murray invested is quite evident. Not only did I gain knowledge, but I appreciated the discussion questions at the end. The character list in the beginning was also helpful. Reading this book reminded me of today’s world consisting of different cultures and races, which can result in harmony but also in disagreements. Honestly, this book was a fascinating read that I highly recommend for you who enjoy prehistoric fiction, adventure, and adding to your knowledge bank of neanderthals. I love books that I ‘can’t put down’ and Endangered Species automatically fell into this category.

My chocolate lab, Copper, had just crossed over the Rainbow Bridge in March, so when I saw The Life and Times of Le Bronco by Thomas Wikman come across many blogs, I knew it would resonate. Bronco was part of Wikman’s family for thirteen years, and Copper was part of my family for the same amount of time. Timing for me to read this wonderful book was serendipitous. The opening paragraphs are delightful. I could feel Bronco’s paws on my shoulders, and I could see the look in his beautiful eyes wanting that delicious ham sandwich. I also love how he became the hero in a story, and the details of how his name came to be. The way Bronco hugged by leaning and snuggling evoked sweet, cuddly memories of Copper’s hugs.

Wikman writes about Leonbergers, how to prepare to welcome one of these gorgeous, big dogs into your home, the food they eat, and the many costs involved. He shares humorous Bronco antics that made me smile. He includes his family’s other adorable dogs: Baby, Ryu, and Daisy. Wikman compiled this book to be both informational and entertaining. I was impressed with the organization. I laughed, and I felt tears pushing for freedom. I discovered joy and felt heartbreak. The drawings are fantastic and a bonus. One fact I remember is that Bronco wore a gentle leader and so did Copper. We opposed shock collars just like Wikman and his family did. Speaking of walking dogs, below is a snippet from “The Joys of Walking” Page 15.

“I often find myself amazed by how keenly perceptive and curious dogs are. Sometimes when Bronco saw a squirrel, he would watch it intently until it disappeared up a tree. Then he would turn around and look at me as if asking, “Where did it go?” I would point to the squirrel up in the tree, and he would look to the place where I was pointing, seeming to say, “Oh, never mind.” Then we would continue walking.” This moment reminds me of Copper because his fascination with squirrels matched Bronco’s. He never caught one but always tried. Though I’m not sure what he would’ve done if he caught one. He was a gentle 80 pound giant, so I think he just wanted to play!

There is more to reveal, but I’ll let you flip through the pages. I highly recommend this book if you’re a parent of a Leonberger, or if you’re considering bringing this breed into your home. If you’re simply a dog lover, or you truly enjoy endearing books about family, this book is for you. I found comfort throughout the pages as my grief remains for my family’s Copper Boy. Thank you, Thomas!

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© Lauren Scott, Baydreamerwrites.com
More reviews forthcoming of books from authors Sally Cronin,
Nicole Sara, Marsha Ingrao, and Dawn Pisturino.
I wish I could write them faster, but it’s impossible. 🙂

Click on the image to order your copy! 🧡

Lauren Scott

Author – King Copper: Our dog’s life in poetry
Author – Cora’s Quest (a children’s book)
Author – Ever So Gently: A Collection of Poetry
Author – More than Coffee: Memories of Verse and Prose
Author – Finding a Balance: A Collection of Poetry
Author – New Day, New Dreams: A Collection of Poetry
Co-Author – Tranquility: An Anthology of Haiku
Co-Author – Petals of Haiku: An Anthology
Co-Author – This Is How We Grow
Co-Author – Poetry Treasures 2: Relationships
Bi-Monthly Contributor on Gobblers by Masticadores
Spillwords Author of the Month May 2023
Spillwords Publication of the Month October 2024
Spillwords Publication of the Month June 2025

A Sunday Surprise!

When I opened my email this morning, I was pleasantly surprised to find Thomas’ post where he shares his amazing review of King Copper. More gratitude is what I feel, and I’m thankful to say (respectfully) that the support just keeps coming. Thank you again, Thomas, for reading my collection about Copper, and for taking the time to write such a moving review. 🙏

Our beloved Copper Boy

The Life of a Dog named Copper by Thomas Wikman

Copper, a rescue Chocolate Lab, was picked up from a foster home in March of 2012 by a loving family and in return they received 13 years of unconditional love from Copper, who turned out to be a quite remarkable dog. This touching and beautiful book recounts his life in the form of poetry. What better way to tell the life of a dog, than through poetry. Some of the poems are from Copper’s perspective and some of them are from the author’s perspective. Some of the poems are fun, some speak of love, and some speak of grief. I think that everyone who’s ever owned dogs will recognize themselves in this book. I certainly did.

Dogs have personalities, they can express themselves, they are innocent, they are fun, they are loving, they can sense your mood and feelings, and they want to comfort you when you are sad. They love you and they can do amazing things, and they are part of the family. All of this is beautifully expressed in this book. This is a heartwarming book that will leave no heart untouched…

To read the full review, please visit Thomas’ wonderful site by clicking the link below:

Thomas also wrote a touching book about his beloved Leonberger, Bronco.
I loved this book and am currently working on my 5-star review. ⭐️

So, if you’re a dog lover or cat lover, or pet parent in general, Thomas and I have books that will touch your heart. ❤️❤️

Thanks for dropping in, and I wish you a lovely week. 🧡🍁🍂

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Click on my daughter’s image to order your copy! 🧡

© Lauren Scott, Baydreamerwrites.com
This blog content cannot be used to train AI.


Author – King Copper: Our dog’s life in poetry
Author – Cora’s Quest (a children’s book)
Author – Ever So Gently: A Collection of Poetry
Author – More than Coffee: Memories of Verse and Prose
Author – Finding a Balance: A Collection of Poetry
Author – New Day, New Dreams: A Collection of Poetry
Co-Author – Tranquility: An Anthology of Haiku
Co-Author – Petals of Haiku: An Anthology
Co-Author – This Is How We Grow
Co-Author – Poetry Treasures 2: Relationships
Bi-Monthly Contributor at Gobblers by Masticadores
Spillwords Author of the Month May 2023
Spillwords Publication of the Month October 2024
Spillwords Publication of the Month June 2025

King Copper brings more 5-star reviews from Sally and Ernie! 🤎🧡

I’m grateful for more reviews for King Copper, and when a fellow blogging friend shares his/her review on their blog, I want to post it here to direct you to their site. Sometimes, I’ll reblog a post, or because of timing, I’ll combine. Either way, the gratitude feels the same! ❤️

So, to begin with, a HUGE Thanks to my friend, Ernie at dawgydaddyresponds for his dashing review! Ernie also offered a great stop on the blog tour for which I appreciate!
Below is a snippet from Ernie:

Starting this book off the last stanza in “Copper Boy” speaks volumes to me.

He just loves in his simple way,
And we love him back,
And that is simply enough.

Looking at Coppers’ pictures you’ll see nothing but love in his eyes, ok maybe mischief too. Ninety-one years in dog time he trained his four human pets and had them sharing a dogs life of adventurous fun as witnessed in “Guard Dog”. “Young Lab” had me laughing, wondering what the scene was at bath time.

Lauren effortlessly takes us form the joy to sadness as “Sweet Face” turns the corner of feelings. “Will You” brought a sadness to me and reminded me of my dog Doc, it is a very touching poem and one of my favorites...

Lastly, a HUGE Thanks to Sally at smorgasbordblogmagazine for her lovely review. All of the reviews have brought tears of joy, knowing that my poems and Copper are touching the hearts of so many. How can I ever express the true gratitude I’m feeling? Sally also promoted my book during the blog tour, and again, I’m so appreciative!
Below is a snippet from Sally:

Those of us who have had pets, know from the outset that their lifespan is not the same as ours. We can only hope that the years they are with us will be filled with love and fun for them and for us. 

This collection of poems about the wonderful King Copper, is not just an expression of grief at his loss, but a wonderful celebration of his life. His goofiness, and ability to sense the mood of those he loves, as he sprawls, dances and makes mischief. 

The family are so lucky to have enjoyed this devotion for 13 years, and the love they experienced will stay with them all their lives. The hardest decision is of course that final act of love to put an end to pain and suffering, but it does weigh heavy on the heart. 

However, this collection also brings hope, that just maybe we will meet up again and if we are lucky

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Click on my daughter’s image to order your copy! 🧡

© Lauren Scott, Baydreamerwrites.com
This blog content cannot be used to train AI.


Author – King Copper: Our dog’s life in poetry
Author – Cora’s Quest (a children’s book)
Author – Ever So Gently: A Collection of Poetry
Author – More than Coffee: Memories of Verse and Prose
Author – Finding a Balance: A Collection of Poetry
Author – New Day, New Dreams: A Collection of Poetry
Co-Author – Tranquility: An Anthology of Haiku
Co-Author – Petals of Haiku: An Anthology
Co-Author – This Is How We Grow
Co-Author – Poetry Treasures 2: Relationships
Bi-Monthly Contributor at Gobblers by Masticadores
Spillwords Author of the Month May 2023
Spillwords Publication of the Month October 2024
Spillwords Publication of the Month June 2025

#BlogTour: The Mystery of the Pink Poodle by Dawn Pisturino

Today, I’m delighted to welcome author and poet Dawn Pisturino as she continues the blog tour for her new middle-grade mystery novel, The Mystery of the Pink Poodle. Dawn’s website is dawnpisturino.wordpress.com, so if you haven’t had the pleasure of meeting her and reading her wonderful writing, please pay her a visit. Her recent popular books are Ancient Voices: Poems about Ancient Egypt and Sun Haiku: 365 Days of Sunshine. The paperback and e-book of Dawn’s book will be available on Monday, September 1st, but the e-book can be pre-ordered now by using the link at the end of this post.

Now you have the floor, Dawn…

Amazon Blurb

Alina has a big problem. Her father is a popular mystery writer. Her mother is a glamorous movie star. Left in the care of the housekeeper, Alina feels neglected and unloved. But a summer trip to a living ghost town in Arizona turns a hot, boring summer into an exciting, intriguing mystery.

Who’s the crazy old lady upstairs? Why is she always crying about a missing pink poodle? Why is she a prisoner in her own home? And why won’t anybody help her?

When Hollywood meets the Wild, Wild West, a mystery unfolds that will change Alina’s life forever. With the aid of two wannabe cowgirls, Alina follows the trail of an ancient puzzle to discover the answer to the mystery of the pink poodle.

Author’s Note

Although this was written as a mystery novel, the story involves so much more. The larger themes center around friendship, the meaning of family, and intergenerational relationships. The book, above all else, is about people and our care and concern for them, no matter who they might be.

Chapter Two – Identical Twins

[Conrad, Arizona, June 2008]

Alina removed her pink-rimmed sunglasses and took a quick inventory of pink toenails peeking out from pink leather sandals and her pink denim shorts and halter top. A pink watchband circled her left wrist, pink earrings dangled from her ears, and a strand of matching pink beads hung around her neck.

“So what?” she said with an indifferent shrug. “I like pink. It’s my favorite color.”

“But your hair—it’s pink! And your dog! I’ve never seen a pink poodle before!” The twin, wearing a blue shirt, stared at her in horror.

“As I said, I like pink. It matches my baby blue eyes.” Alina made a pouty face and batted her eyelashes as if posing for an imaginary camera.

“Your mother doesn’t have pink hair,” the blue twin insisted. “And why are you so skinny? Are you sick or something?”

“My mother’s a movie star. She has to be thin. I’m going to be just like her, so I have to be thin, too.”

“Anorexic, more like it,” the blue girl grumbled. “Movie stars and models never eat.”

“Don’t mind her,” said the other girl, putting out her hand. “She’s just jealous. My name’s Shiloh Blair. This is my sister, Billie. We’re going to have fun while you’re here.”

Alina shook the girl’s hand. “Identical twins! How will I ever tell you apart?”

“We don’t dress alike,” Shiloh answered, “except once in a while. You see? I’m wearing red. Billie’s wearing blue. We like to be different.”

“She likes books,” Billie said. “I like horses. But we both like country western music.”

“Yuck,” Alina said. “I hate country western.” Muffy squirmed in her arms.

“Can I hold her?” Shiloh asked.

Alina handed her the curly-haired pink poodle. “Her name is Muffy.”

“Our mother runs this place,” Billie said. “She won’t let us have any pets. She’s afraid the old lady upstairs would make a fuss.”

“The old lady upstairs?” Alina felt uneasy that the face in the window belonged to the old lady.

“Yeah, she lives up on the third floor. She owns this place. She ran out of money and opened up this house as a bed and breakfast inn. People come here to stay all year round. But we’ve never had a movie star’s daughter before.”

“Or a famous mystery writer,” Shiloh chimed in. “You’re so lucky!”

Alina frowned. “I’m not so lucky. My parents are divorced.”

Billie and Shiloh looked at each other and laughed. “Our parents were never married,” Shiloh said.

“And we hardly ever see our father,” Billie added. “At least you live with your father. It must be so exciting traveling around with him.”

“I never go anywhere with my father,” Alina said. “He’s always busy writing. And I never see my mother. She’s too busy making movies. She calls me once in a while on my cell phone. I spend all my time with the housekeeper, Mrs. McPherson. But at least she likes me and worries about me.”

“He brought you here,” Shiloh pointed out.

“Because he had to. Mrs. McPherson is back in Pennsylvania visiting her sick sister. Otherwise, I’d be spending the summer at home in Beverly Hills.”

“Beverly Hills!” the twins squealed.

“90210,” Shiloh said. “How cool! Do you live in a huge mansion like Paris Hilton and drive around in a limo with a chauffeur?”

“Do you have a big swimming pool and your own tennis courts?” Billie asked.

“Give me a break,” Alina said. “I go to school and do homework, just like you.”

Author BIO

Dawn Pisturino is a retired registered nurse in Arizona whose international publishing credits include poems, short stories, and articles. She has published five poetry collections, including her most recent release, Ancient Voices: Poems About Ancient Egypt, which achieved #1 Amazon New Release status in African Poetry, History of Egypt, History of Africa, and History of North Africa. She is a member of the Mystery Writers of America and the Arizona Authors Association.

http://www.dawnpisturino.wordpress.com

Amazon Link to Pre-Order

The Kindle and Paperback will be available on September 1, 2025.

Thank you so much, Lauren, for hosting me today!

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© Lauren Scott, Baydreamerwrites.com
This blog content cannot be used to train AI.

Click on the image to order your copy! 🧡

Highlights to Showcase!

Photo by rovenimages.com on Pexels.com

There is so much happening that gives reason for celebrating in the midst of still missing Copper. I don’t normally remember my dreams, but I dreamed about him the other night and it was vivid. Just an ordinary day with him trotting around the house, “nails clicking on the floor.” Anyway, I am so grateful and humbled by the beautiful reviews that are flowing in for King Copper. Thank you to those who have shared your heartwarming thoughts. ❤️

I also want to share the great news that my dear friend, Maggie, at Ephemeral Encounters, has been nominated for Author of the Month by Spillwords! And my good friend, Ernie, at The Dawghouse, has been nominated for Publication of the Month for his poem, “Little Mouse.” Way to go, Maggie and Ernie! 🎉

I encourage you to cast your vote for these two amazing writers at https://spillwords.com/vote/ and voting will conclude on August 29th. 🗳️

On another note, writing reviews seems to be a slow process for me. I should get in the habit of writing the review right after finishing a book. But no…I can’t stop reading, therefore, the books pile up and so do the reviews waiting to be written. That’s currently where I’m at. But having an abundance of books to read is the best problem, right?

So next month, I’ll share my reviews! In the meantime, I hope you’ll check these fabulous books out!

Let’s keep those TBRs towering! 😂

And let’s not forget my TBR:

Processing Loss in poetic form
Reviewed in the United States on August 10, 2025
Verified Purchase

I shed more than a tear or two as I read this beautiful tribute to King Copper, a chocolate lab that gave so much love and joy to the author’s family. The poetry is heartfelt and poignant. Some of the poems speak of the happy times and some of the deep sadness at Copper’s passing. He came to their home in March with youthful spirit and left in March gaining angel wings with 13 years in between. This is a touching story of unconditional love. Here is an example of poems that touched me deeply…

Young Lab

There once was a friendly, young lab
With energy delightfully fab
He loved belly rubs
Hated baths in the tub
He gave big, toothy smiles, never sad!


My Shadow

Feeling empty in my bones
walking from room to room,
where is my shadow?

Those are just two very short examples of the deep heartfelt poetry in this book. The photos of the deeply cherished Copper and his family are an added bonus. If you’ve ever experienced the pain of loss and struggled to find a way to carry on, I recommend this short read to help you process. It touches on the reality of grieving and how hard it can be to keep putting one foot in front of the other. Yet, we do, as the author shows us.

Photo by RDNE Stock project on Pexels.com
Click on the image to order your copy! 🧡



Gobblers by Masticadores welcomes King Copper!

A huge Thank You to Editor, Manuela Timofte, for sharing the initial post about my new release, King CopperA poetic account of the joy that arises when a lovable chocolate lab walks into your life and changes it forever. And the eventual heartache you feel when he crosses over the rainbow bridge thirteen years later and still too soon. I’m always honored to be featured on Manuela’s beautiful site along with many talented writers. 🙏

To read the entire post, please visit Gobblers, and if you haven’t subscribed, I hope you will. Manuela shares evocative poetry and stories from a myriad of talented authors. Thanks again, Manuela! ❤️

Image by Jacqui Murray
Photo by alleksana on Pexels.com

Thanks for dropping by, and I wish you a fabulous day! 🤎🧡❤️
Now that the blog tour has ended, I’m going to work on
finishing overdue reviews for some great books.
🙂

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© Lauren Scott, Baydreamerwrites.com
This blog content cannot be used to train AI.

Click on the image to order your copy! 🧡

One More Time…

It looks like Copper accompanied my son and daughter
on wonderful hikes in their respective states, CO and TN.

♥️🤎♥️🤎♥️

Dear Family and Friends,

The King Copper blog tour has come to an end. Maggie kicked it off with fireworks on August 4th, and Marsha created a grand finale yesterday on August 18th. I can’t express how thankful I am for those who helped spread the word about Copper. Many fell in love with him through the poems and photos shared. This feels like a warm hug. And the 5-star reviews that are flowing in are all touching my heart like the collection is touching the hearts of readers. Offering more gratitude is definitely justified to the wonderful blog tour train drivers:

Maggie at Ephemeral Encounters 
Mike at Silent Pariah 
Jacqui at https://worddreams.wordpress.com/ 
Ernie at dawgdaddyresponds 
Sally at smorgasbordinvitation.wordpress.com 
Dawn at dawnpisturino.wordpress.com 
Marsha at alwayswrite.blog 
Brian at writingfromtheheartofbrian hopped on the train unexpectedly,
which was a wonderful surprise!

One More Thank You

If repeated often
words can sound trite
though intentions are true
as stars shine bright.
A heart that grows full
from abundant kindness
unselfishness feels
like a heartfelt caress.
So don’t feel weary
from hearing a ‘thank you’
because the sentiments
like a sunrise are oh, so true
!
~ LS

© Lauren Scott, Baydreamerwrites.com
This blog content cannot be used to train AI.

Click on the image to order your copy! 🧡

#BlogTourLastStop – I’m at Marsha’s today as she ends the tour for King Copper in a spectacular way and one that tugs at my heart.

The blog tour train has reached its final destination at Marsha’s blog, Always Write, and what a post she created! I told her that I thought the tears had begun to dry up, but they keep finding me. Though my family is beginning to revel in the joyful memories of Copper, we still him so much. Sometimes, it’s hard to believe that he won’t greet me one day when I walk through the door. This is life. There is a beginning and an end. I also told Marsha that I guess I wanted others to know Copper like his family did. So far, the reviews are beyond touching. Adjectives are being repeated, but I think you know what I mean and how I feel.

So, please visit Marsha and her wonderful blog, to learn something different about this special poetry collection. And to get to know her if you haven’t already met her! I have to be honest, if you’re a dog parent or even a cat parent, my poetic sentiments will resonate because all of our hearts have been melted by our furry family members. ❤️

And now, click on the link below that will transport you to Marsha’s beautiful blog.
Comments are turned off.

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© Lauren Scott, Baydreamerwrites.com
This blog content cannot be used to train AI.

Click on the image to order your copy! 🧡