RUNNING WITH HOUNDS…and an English Degree is a wry, sometimes painful but ultimately hopeful look at the period of transition between college student and independent, functional adult. Denise is in a thoroughly tumultuous position, having to decide how to build a career and an independent life for herself with an English degree and little or no work experience, and being caught between two potential boyfriends, her old ex Alex who’s messed with her heart one too many times and the enigmatic Logan, who’s hiding more secrets than she’s comfortable with. Through all of this, she has the support (and gentle nudging) of her parents and her solid group of girlfriends, who back each other up even when they’re arguing or criticizing each other’s bad decisions and poor judgement. And of course there are the titular dogs, Dante and Pepper, the pampered “children” of a wealthy couple, Ruth and Mitchell, for whom Denise is dog-sitting as a temporary job.
The “struggling to come-of-age” story is a bit formulaic, but this book breaks the formula in a couple of intriguing ways, especially in the romantic department. The characters are quirky and charming, and Denise’s friends, while they tend to argue in chorus and at the top of their lungs, are still reasonably distinguishable, with distinct personalities and situations. The first person perspective draws us into Denise’s thoughts and emotions, bringing us closer to her and letting us as readers empathize more deeply with her struggles – it helps that she has a wry sense of humor that squelches self-pity and makes her much more pleasant company. It’s ultimately rather heartwarming to watch her take her first hesitant steps towards building a life that will not only keep her fed and clothed, but allow her to explore her creativity and develop her skills as a writer – learning to network, taking workshops, building a portfolio of freelance work, etc. The story maintains a realistic balance there, between the extremes of “follow your dreams no matter what” and “give up on your dreams and devote your life to practicality above all.” All in all, it’s a generally entertaining and amusing read.
D.M. Roberts’ RUNNING WITH HOUNDS…and an English Degree is a cute, funny look at the uncertainties of getting started in life after college, with a couple of unexpected twists and adorable dogs.
~Catherine Langrehr for IndieReader