Ivy

An accessible guide on the fundamentals of how to use positive reinforcement to help calm dogs with reactivity issues (whether fearful, shy, or aggressive). The scientific terms used were thoroughly explained in layman's terms. The exercises were broken up into smaller tasks that virtually guarantee the dog's success.

Basically, it teaches how to train the dog to learn to relax, which increases their rational response to stimuli (the doorbell, other dogs, etc.) and gives them coping skills. The ideas are useful and the end result is attainable.

There are a few editing/layout issues, though.

An easy to follow guide to addressing common behavioral issues (Barking, Knocking people over, Leash-walking issues, and 'Naughty' when home alone), using positive reinforcement. It clearly makes a point of when it may be time to contact a trainer (and what qualifications to look for, as it’s an unregulated profession) by explaining the signs of reactivity and separation anxiety.

I love the rescue dog profiles and anecdotes that were included, that the author made a point that no dog is untrainable. Honestly, it’s a 4.5 instead of a 5 for me only because the main teaching method is luring (where I usually prefer to work with shaping).

A therapist forms a support group for sole survivors of supernatural monster attacks (in a world where the existence of the supernatural isn't common knowledge). I would describe it as "jaded urban fantasy" more than horror, really.

An interesting premise that never got fully explored, leaving it feeling as though it's book one of a series instead of a stand alone. This isn’t me clamoring for a sequel, mind you, just pointing out how many plot threads were left hanging.

The plot is solid enough, and the characters were unlikable on purpose and distinct from one another, but the writing itself (meaning, the prose) leaft a lot to be desired, at least for me. Mainly, I disliked the endless head-hopping and shifts from third-person-singular to first-person-plural.