Norah’s Ark - Baer, Judy. Steeple Hill Café, 2006. 361p. $13.95, paperback. ISBN-10: 0-373-78566-6. ISBN-13: 978-0-373-78566-7. www.eharlequin.com Fiction Dog owners—Fiction. Minnesota—Fiction. Pit bull terriers—Fiction.

“Have you hugged your iguana today?” So reads the sign outside Norah Kent’s pet shop and doggie B and B (bed and biscuit) in a lakeside Minnesota town. This lighthearted novel will please readers of romantic fiction and especially those who are passionate about animals. The cast of characters includes dogs, cats, rabbits, a horse, parrots, and other species.

The young and single Norah narrates the story. Norah is a Christian, and she’s on the lookout for a good Christian man. There are prospects, but there’s also her motto “love me, love my dog.” The handsome young police officer she’s attracted to seems not to meet that requirement.

Norah’s friends and neighbors, aside from the ones with fur and feathers, include a fashion-plate best friend, the frail Auntie Lou who depends on Norah, and a family of mysterious newcomers. Norah relies on God to guide her and weaves her prayers into the tale, adding scripture passages as she goes.

Christian readers who enjoy breezy romantic fiction will have fun with this likeable young heroine surrounded by critters and coping with life in the modern secular world.

Monica Tenney, Media Review Editor
Maple Grove United Methodist Church
Columbus, Ohio