Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
5/5
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author
Jean Vives
This book has received many many rave reviews that cannot be published strictly on Smashwords since they were sentdirectly to the author. From Random House author Vimala McCLure--"This usually isn'...view moreThis book has received many many rave reviews that cannot be published strictly on Smashwords since they were sentdirectly to the author. From Random House author Vimala McCLure--"This usually isn't the type of book I would normally read, but once I began, I couldn't stop. The relationship between this soldier and his dog is beautifully woven throughout, as is fascinating detail about how these "war dogs" and their soldiers are trained and bonded together. The adventures, both the soldier/dog dyad and the dog's amazing journey are well written and spell-binding. A terrific tale that leaves one wanting more! "The book is "riveting" and is highly recommended for juveniles and adults who love dogs (who doesn't?)"From screenwriter Jane Shepard: "What a rich compelling read! I started it at bedtime, thinking I would read a little each night, but the action and characters kept me turning pages until I'd read the whole book in one sitting! My congratulations to Jean Vives for creating a vivid story and characters that we warm to and care about so deeply. I highly recommend the book for its fascinating action story and reminiscent of some of the best young people's literature (the kind that parents want to read as well!)"Jean Vives is an award-winning writer with a doctorate in education who’s been published in outlets such as Ski, Skiing, and Outside magazines. However, my goal is to become a novelist. My debut work, The Epic of Dexter the War Dog (40K words) is a heartwarming YA story for both male and female readers, about the bond between a Special Forces dog and his handler.When military dog trainer Marc Majors meets an injured street dog (Belgian Malinois) at an outdoor café in Colorado Springs, he uses his experience and friendly manner to draw the wary dog closer. Dexter has porcupine quills in his nose, so Marc decides to take him to the base vet hospital. On the way, Dexter stops Marc from crossing the street by putting his body in front of him. His action saves Marc from getting run over by a construction truck.After several months of training together, Marc and Dexter are deployed to Afghanistan. There they search for snipers and improvised explosive devices (IEDs), until an unexpected explosion causes them to be injured and separated. Dexter wakes up in the hands of a group of teens. They want to collect the reward money for the dog and ingratiate themselves with the Taliban. But the kidnaping is just the beginning of a dangerous tour of duty for Dexter.As Marc attempts to recuperate in his Army hospital bed, Dexter braves an unforgiving wilderness of mountains, deserts, and rivers. The courageous war dog encounters a variety of human and animal friends and foes. As he does, Marc and Dexter attempt to combat their PTSD and their greatest fear—that they’ll never be reunited.My novel is a realistic adventure story that’s well-researched with cinematic appeal, reminiscent of works such as The Incredible Journey by Sheila Burnford, which was adapted to feature film (Disney); and Max (HarperCollins), about a military dog, which was also made into a movie (Warner Bros). Additionally, each chapter depicts a stand-alone adventure perfect for developing several Netflix episodes. My book is edgy and gritty, but it has a happy ending. Not written to “shock and awe,” the story is ultimately about love, courage, and determination.The inspiration for my novel is the real Dexter, my Marine son’s dog. In addition to being a writer, I’m a father and a well-known wilderness guide. All the adventures in my writing are inspired by my experience traveling the world. I’ve been to Kathmandu; come face-to-face with guerillas wielding machine guns during a coup d’état in Nicaragua; met Sir Edmund Hillary, the first man to climb Mt. Everest; etc.I’m also the founder of Aspen Alpine Guides, I’m a traditionally published author (Human Kinetics Press) of a nonfiction book about skiing, and I have a significant network of friends and influencers who will help promote my writing. I’m active on social media (FB, Twitter, and Instagram). And I’m an accomplished speaker and instructor who’s worked with various nonprofits including the Red Cross.view less
Books by Jean Vives
The Epic of Dexter the War Dog. Getting Out of Afghanistan Was Just the Beginning