DOGMATIC

Category: Fiction - Short Stories
Author: Gerry Burke
Publisher: iUniverse
Publication Date: September 18, 2023
Number of Pages: 175
ISBN-10: 978-1-6632-5575-4 (e)

Dogmatic by Gerry Burke is a delightful collection of humorous and heartwarming short stories that will captivate both dog lovers and those who appreciate clever storytelling. In this charming collection, Burke takes readers on a whimsical journey into the lives of various canine companions and their human counterparts. The stories are infused with humor and imagination, offering an entertaining exploration of the extraordinary adventures of dogs with unique personalities. Each tale is brimming with witty narratives and unexpected twists that keep readers engaged from start to finish.

Dusty becomes an unexpected hero in his small town. This story cleverly showcases the bond between humans and their canine friends, highlighting Dusty's role in uniting the community and even leading to his election as the town's mayor. “The Brutes from Bakersfield” introduces readers to a captivating mystery involving a dog named Pepe. Sonja, the determined investigator, uncovers a murder case with Pepe as a crucial witness, demonstrating the remarkable instincts and loyalty of dogs. This story brilliantly combines elements of suspense and humor, making it an engaging read. In “The Lady from Illinois,” Burke takes a darker and more satirical approach, presenting readers with a quirky and eccentric protagonist, Terry O'Flaherty, whose life becomes entangled in bizarre circumstances. The story's unexpected twists and turns, along with Terry's peculiar actions, create a darkly humorous atmosphere that keeps readers guessing until the surprising denouement. “The Dancing Dogs of Donnybrook” stands out as an imaginative and entertaining tale that showcases the extraordinary talents of Beagle George and his friends. This story combines elements of fame, espionage, and humor, offering a unique and enjoyable reading experience. “Mind Your Peas and Queues” adds a touch of romance and small-town charm to the collection. Richard's journey as a struggling actor in Stratford, along with his ingenious idea involving pea crops and Viagra, is humorous. The story beautifully portrays the quirks of small-town life and the unexpected opportunities that can arise.

In Dogmatic Gerry Burke exhibits a knack for crafting engaging narratives filled with quirky characters and their canine companions. Each story examines the bond between humans and their canine friends. The superb writing and the author’s unique sense of the economy of words make the entire collection a delightful journey for fans of short stories. You will laugh out loud as you follow these characters as they come to life in the pages of Dogmatic. 

Reviewed By: Cristina Prescott

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Date: December 13, 2023

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Fiction