A Great Gift Idea

Are you looking for the perfect holiday gift for friends and / or family? While people are finishing up (or just starting) their holiday shopping, I thought it would be a great time to put out my annual gift "recommendation" :-)  

Lucky For Me (A Journey of Healing and Self-discovery) could be the ideal present for the book lovers and animal lovers on your list (Or even a nice gift to yourself!) 

Is there anyone on your list who is:

- A huge animal lover?

- Adopted a dog that was abused or has some emotional issues?

- Wanting to learn more about the deep connection that is possible with animals?

- On a healing path of their own (physical or emotional)?

- Wanting to find themselves and discover who they truly are? Or what their purpose is?

- Looking for ways to love and accept themselves more fully?

- Deeply sensitive and struggling with their sensitivity from time to time?

If so, Lucky For Me could be the perfect gift for them this holiday season. 

Book Summary:

From the time Maureen was a little girl, all she wanted was a German shepherd. Then one day she is inexplicably drawn to a news story about a shepherd puppy that had been used in a dog-fighting ring and then heartlessly discarded in a dumpster. Was this the German shepherd she was meant to have? An adoption lottery could answer that and change her life in unimaginable ways.

Lucky For Me takes us deep into the lives of Lucky, the severely abused German shepherd and Maureen, her adopter. Assuming the role of rescuer, Maureen set out on what felt like an insurmountable mission to help Lucky heal from her physical and emotional wounds. Along the way she was catapulted into her own healing journey. Will Lucky and Maureen be able to overcome the obstacles that life has dealt them?

Maureen gives us an honest and introspective look at their quest to regain their confidence and find their way back to whom they are meant to be. As they endeavor to accept, heal and free themselves from the past, Maureen realizes how disconnected she has been from her true self.

While attempting to answer the question “Who am I?” pieces of the puzzle begin to reveal themselves in synchronistic and magical ways. Discovering the hidden gifts in her extreme sensitivity and empathic nature, Maureen’s bond with Lucky grows even stronger and more powerful. As the process of self-discovery unfolds, a new way of life emerges—one that finally feels like home.

Lucky for Me is a true story about second chances and new beginnings. It follows Lucky and Maureen as they navigate the ups and downs of the somewhat rocky terrain, which eventually leads them to self-acceptance and self-love. Ultimately, their inspiring adventure shows us what is possible with love, courage, forgiveness, and trust.

Below you will find links to purchase my book:

The book is available two ways - in paperback (via the publisher) and as an ebook (via Amazon)

Here is a link to the publisher, if you would like to purchase a paperback copy of my book:

https://riversanctuarypublishing.com/shop/lucky-for-me/

Here is a link to Amazon, if you would like to purchase the ebook:

 Buy e-book edition

If you are still unsure if Lucky For Me - A Journey of Healing and Self-Discovery is the right fit for people on your shopping list, maybe hearing from people who read my book will help you decide. Below you will find some recommendations that were written about Lucky For Me. Additionally, for those who are interested in hearing even more about it, I have included a link to a video podcast that a friend and I did about my book.

Reviews:

I just finished reading Lucky for Me by Maureen Burkley. It’s not often that I find a book I can’t put down. From start to finish, the author’s candor and vulnerability are truly remarkable. I was drawn into her world in a way that made me feel as if I were right there alongside her and Lucky.

Burkley’s writing style captures her journey with Lucky, a dog who endured a tragic early life. As the story unfolds, the author discovers that many of the challenges in her own life intersect the hardships she is so lovingly working to heal in Lucky’s, leading to lessons that are deeply intertwined. The book goes beyond the surface of a simple rescue/feel good story, revealing a bond that transforms into a profound friendship full of love, patience and mutual teaching.

What struck me most is the spiritual lesson woven throughout the narrative, a subtle yet powerful message that some readers may miss amidst the ups and downs of life portrayed in the book. I won’t spoil the “aha!” moment for future readers, but I can assure you this story is beautiful and inspiring. One that could easily be read again.

I highly recommend Lucky for Me to anyone looking for a heartfelt and thought-provoking read. It’s a book I’m eager to share with friends, and I’m sure it will resonate with many.

Forrest Cambell

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Lucky For Me is a heartwarming and insightful read that I couldn’t put down. It’s beautifully written and incredibly easy to follow.

Through Maureen’s journey with her pup, Lucky, I gained a deeper awareness of the subtle cues in my own animals’ behavior and the importance of truly observing our surroundings. While the story centers on her dog, Lucky, the lessons and reflections shared throughout are universal—applicable to animals of all kinds, including horses and donkeys!

I happened to read Lucky For Me just before bringing home one of my own dogs, who turned out to be a very sensitive soul. The timing couldn’t have been better. This book gave me tools, reassurance, and even a few “aha!” moments—not just about animals, but about myself as well.

I’ll be recommending this book to everyone. Whether you’re going through a transition, deepening your bond with your animals, or simply looking for a meaningful and uplifting read, Lucky For Me is a true gem.

Andrea Koch

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This seemed like it was going to be a simple Happy Ending story, but it was so much more involved than that. It has such a heart wrenching start concerning what to most would be a hidden aspect to our society’s involvement with pets and the way people treat them.

With the author’s commitment to Lucky’s wellbeing, and her constant care and searching for answers to the many unknowns on how to make Lucky feel cared for and loved again, it turns into a heart warming story that will touch every reader. The All-In attitude of the author and the care she provides without compromise will have the reader reflecting on their own life and choices they have made.

It is endearing to see how the author took a very difficult situation and not only made the best of it, but touched the lives of so many others in a positive way along the way. Maureen not only found security and happiness for Lucky but found out ‘who she is’ along the way; something we all tend to search for while we navigate our way through life. I tend to not think of life as a journey, but more of an endless series of challenges that we have to deal with to become who we are going to be. The author bares her soul as she describes dealing with those challenges for both Lucky and herself. You feel both for Maureen and Lucky throughout this tale and are pulling for them at every turn. Luckily, happiness is everybody’s reward in the end.

I can’t help but think that anyone who reads this heart warming story will be changed by what the author was able to accomplish, with limited means, by the dint of her own personal convictions.

Matthew, Silicon Valley, CA

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Lucky for Me is a beautiful story of healing, love, and the bond between Maureen and her dog, Lucky. I was lucky enough to spend time with them during swim therapy. Even though Lucky had trouble walking, she came alive in the water—joyful, free, and full of spirit.

That experience completely changed how I see quality of life in senior dogs. My family used to believe it was time to say goodbye when mobility was lost, but Lucky showed me how much life and happiness is still possible.

Thanks to Maureen and Lucky, I was able to share a deeper connection with my own dog, Leo, until he transitioned peacefully on his own. This book—and the time I shared with them—will stay with me forever.

Karen, Milpitas, CA

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A wonderful story about a loving bond between Maureen and Lucky and their ability to learn from and heal each other.

Mary Ellen, Monterey, Ca

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“Lucky for Me”
May 2025

I recently lost “FLB” (favorite little boy)! He was actually my neighbor’s 16 year old, 5lb cockapoo. But his 2nd home was with me as his “part-time nanny,” especially during the last several years of his decline, I would hear his cries over the fence and go to comfort him.

So, I felt compelled to reread “Lucky for Me” and it had the same impact on me as the first time – 3 years ago. I was inspired, in awe, laughed and cried all at the same time!

We were fortunate to know Maureen and Lucky. We knew their backstory so when we saw them walking in the neighborhood, we would stop, check in and get updates on their progress. We knew how dedicated Maureen was to Lucky but her book truly reflected their day-to-day struggles and the incredible bond they had! And it was only through her strength and perseverance did they successfully heal together.

Maureen also helped us when our Natalie, 12 yr old Aussie was declining and with Shasta, an adult Aussie mix, who unfortunately was an unsuccessful rescue after 9 months. We saw firsthand – her connections with animals.

Through Maureen’s courageous writing of her journey with Lucky, we were uplifted, reassured about moving forward and in believing in yourself and your heart. “What happened in the past does not make your future.” But most importantly . . . the power of loving animals.

Anne Y

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Wow. All I can say is wow! I finished Lucky For Me (by Maureen Burkley) on the plane a few weeks ago. The most PERFECT ALIGNMENT OF TIMING is indescribable. I don’t remember when I got the book and started reading it, I’m a slow reader lately and I read in small chunks and then I pick it up again, but I feel like each time I picked it up, that each part I read served me so perfectly during that particular time.

Since we never had a dog, I have learned so much about dogs from this book. But the most interesting part, the book also made me think a lot about life…

As I got to the end, reading about Lucky’s last year, last few months, down to last hours AND after her transitioning …….. I can’t even describe how meaningful it was for me – and things I felt for Maureen and Lucky and for MYSELF at the same time, interwoven together.

With each part of the book I read, it was like being there and being here and having a NEW understanding for the criss-cross points. I was able to begin to feel what Maureen felt AND see how those things connect to things unfolding in my own life right now.

I was able to understand Maureen’s decisions points, where they come from, and marvel at their relationship, at the end, not only had Lucky taught her and us so much, but ….compassion…. wow, compassion!! The place where compassion comes from!! Our wisdom. Our intuition. And the light and joy and peace that come with it.

I feel so much reverence for Maureen and Lucky. I thank her and Lucky both for how I was able to take what I was reading and connect it to my own life, my own journey in such a powerful way. Lucky is still teaching!!! Your pets are still teachers even after they are gone.

Zhanna Kozar

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Like the boy on an expedition who seeks wisdom by attending to omens in The Alchemist, author Maureen Burkley listens intently to signs she receives from Lucky, her adopted German Shepherd. What she learns couldn’t help but propel her on a quest for personal healing and self-discovery. 

Searching to understand the root causes of Lucky’s illnesses, Maureen gingerly and lovingly assists her companion in overcoming deep-seated traumas. Through the unraveling of Lucky’s knotted wounds, Maureen shows us how we can be alchemists of our own pain and transform whatever shackles us from being our best selves. 

Lucky For Me is an intimate portrait of two friends who discover when one of us evolves, everything around us evolves. The hard-earned lessons Maureen imparts throughout her story are poignant and timely, told with extraordinary honesty and regard for the reader. This is not only a must-read for animal lovers, but for anyone who could use a reminder of the preciousness of every life.

Paula Francis – author “Ten Pair Of Shoes”

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Maureen Burkley has written a book that any dog lover will find engaging, instructive, and transformational. Her experiences gained from adopting an abused and traumatized puppy greatly illuminate the canine/human relationship. And in doing so, illustrates the profound connection and exchange of learning that is possible between a person and any living creature. 

Maureen’s journey with her German Shepherd, Lucky shows how approaching a challenging task with self-awareness and openness leads to profound discovery and healing growth. The story presents a lesson in compassion while revealing insights and training methods that made me a more loving and responsible dog parent and gave me clues about my own mental-emotional patterns. As a specialist in Emotional Intelligence, I found the book to be a consistent primer threaded with behavioral practices and keys to personal awareness that span the spectrum of relationships. Curiosity, openness, and compassion open us to deeper connections and reveal new paths. And it’s just a great dog story!

Steve Whiteford – Applied Emotional Intelligence Consultant 

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It has been a long time since I resonated with and was moved by a book. “Lucky For Me” resonated with me and I was definitely moved by it. As a longtime dog lover and parent, I truly believe that dogs have souls. It is truly a gift to have a special emotional connection with an animal. They save us and we save them. Thank you for saving Lucky and I am glad she was able to help save you as well.

K.C.

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Maureen's book is so inspiring and very interesting to read. She showed so much strength and perseverance during her special journey with Lucky. There is so much of her heart and determination to help Lucky with her challenges. You truly see the power of unconditional love.  The connections Maureen made to guide her were almost unbelievable or magical since many came in strange ways and at just the right time.  

So many stories in the book that I could relate to or felt the same way at times. While reading her book it triggered many of my own memories. My favorite stories were her many fun times with Lucky. Although Lucky had some struggles she never gave up either and actually help to guide Maureen on her path. Lucky brought so much joy to so many people of all ages.  They were such gifts to each other and also to so many people, myself included.

Maureen's book taught me several things that could help me in my life as well. 

L.B.

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A Video Podcast To Learn Even More:

For those of you who would like to listen to / watch a brief (35 min.) podcast about Lucky For Me, here is a link to the podcast that my friend Steve Whiteford and I did a few years ago about my book. 

Maureen's interview with Steve

Our Animals Can Help Us See Ourselves

Over the years, I have seen example after example of where our animals can be a "mirror" for us. Often times when we understand what they need, we discover it is the same thing we need. Or when we identify something they need to work on, we find that it is something we need to work on as well. I don't think it's any accident that this occurs . . . as I believe it is part of their purpose here on earth, to help us learn about ourselves and help us grow. 

I get so tickled when I am able to witness these occurrences of "mirroring" - to see the eyes of a guardian light up when they realized how much they have in common with their animal or how deeply they are deeply touched when they learn more about what their animal is trying to teach them.

I vividly recall the opportunity I had to work with three wonderful women and their four horses many years ago. There were a mixture of physical and behavioral issues that had these women stumped and they were looking for insights into what was going on. 

When one of the gals asked me why her horse would occasionally stop and refuse to move anymore when they were out for a trail ride, her horse showed me through her feelings and some images that she needed to know the "big picture" before they went out for a ride. She wanted to know where they were going to go, how long they would be gone and when she was going to get to eat again. :-) 

As I was explaining in more detail about the horses' desire to have her expectations managed, her guardian shook her head and began to laugh. She said, "Oh my gosh, she's just like me!" It hadn't occurred to her that her horse needed the same thing she did but now that she knew, she was more than happy to start offering up more of an explanation before they left the barn. She knew how much it helped her to understand the "big picture" before engaging in something so it was easy for her to provide that to her horse.

One of the other horses was being pushed around by some of the other horses at the stable when they were out in the pasture. I sensed some confusion in him, given that he was always complimented by all the 2-legged folks for being such a sweet, gentle horse and he didn't know how to still be sweet and gentle while standing up for himself with the other horses. I talked to him about how it was OK for him to be confident, that he would still be the same sweet horse he's always been, even if he stood up for himself a bit more. I told him it was safe to be both sweet and confident.

At the time I was talking to him, I sensed it was potentially an issue for his guardian as well, but I didn't say anything at the time. I had just met her and wasn't sure how comfortable she would be if I began pointing out what my intuition was telling me about her. :-) 

Much to my delight, a while later when we were working with one of the other horses, the guardian brought it up herself, mentioning that she saw the connection when we were talking to her horse. She said she often was afraid to speak up for herself for fear that people wouldn't like her anymore. I suggested that maybe it had come up that day so that they could both work on it and help each other make progress on this area. The other ladies who were there with us were kind enough to chime in and let her know that she could speak up for herself around them and it wouldn't change how much they liked her. I could tell by the smile on her face, especially in her eyes, that it really struck a positive chord with her. 

The week before that, one of my dog clients was having difficulty recovering from an injury. I told his guardian that I sensed he wasn't healing because he wasn't resting enough. He seemed to always feel like he had to be "on" - always doing something, and since he never stopped moving, his muscles weren't getting a chance to heal. 

As I was explaining all of this, she looked down at the ground, then slowly lifted her eyes to meet mine and quietly said, "He isn't the only one who has this problem." She confessed that she had trouble being still herself, that she never seemed to stop moving either. I suggested that maybe it was something they could work on together. They could take some time out each day where they both rested and were just still. I sensed that it was something she would be more apt to do if it was also going to help her dog. 

I think our animals are offering us insights about ourselves all the time and there is so much we can learn if we look at ourselves as closely and lovingly as we look at our animals. All of my clients genuinely want to help their animals and go to great lengths to ensure they are happy and living a balanced life. I think their animals genuinely want to help their guardians too and will go to great lengths to ensure they too are happy and living a balanced life. 

Sometimes our animals will help give us the courage to do something for ourselves when we see how doing that same thing has helped them. 

Our animals are able to give us great insight into ourselves if we are willing to slow down, get quiet and pay attention to the subtle messages they are offering. 

So what do you think your animal is trying to tell you about yourself? You might be amazed at what you learn.