More "Lucky For Me" Book Reviews

 

I have been blessed with 5 more reviews of my book Lucky For Me and want to share them with those of you who read my blog. I am so grateful to the people who have taken the time to write such heartfelt words to describe what their experience was to read my book and so beautifully articulate what it meant to them. 

As you will see from these reviews, some of the folks who wrote them were actually part of the journey that Lucky and I were on and had first hand knowledge of what we were going through. It was a delight to receive their feedback and see how they reacted to our book from their perspective. 

Each one of these reviews touched me in a different way and they all showed me that the book is doing exactly what Lucky and I hoped it would do . . .  to be of support to anyone who read it, in whatever way they might need some support  - no matter how big or small.

Being shown that the book had provided a myriad of confirmations, inspiration, self-reflection, a deepening of appreciation of what animals have to offer us as well as just plain enjoyment is such a treat for me. I know Lucky is pleased as well. 

I hope you enjoy reading these sincere, wholehearted reviews about Lucky For Me. 

If these reviews inspire you to buy the book or gift it to someone you know, paperback copies can be purchased directly from River Sanctuary Publishing here: River Sanctuary Publishing and ebook purchases can be made via Amazon here: Buy e-book edition

***

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

***

“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

***

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

***

“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 2^nd 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 first hand – 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

***

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

Another Review of Lucky For Me

This past week, my book Lucky For Me was reviewed by Readersfavorite.com. I was delighted to find out that they gave it 5 out of 5 stars! 

I have shared the review below in case anyone reading my blog is still unsure if they want to read my book. Maybe this will inspire you to make a purchase.  :-)

And for those of you who HAVE read my book, if you feel compelled to write a review I would definitely welcome that! You can post your review directly onto my book's page at Amazon.com Amazon ebook or send it to Riversanctuarypublishing.com  https://riversanctuarypublishing.com/shop/lucky-for-me/ - or both! 

Since there are many people who like to read reviews before making a purchase decision, every review is helpful. I am grateful for every bit of support! 

While book sales are always welcome, for me this is more about Lucky For Me reaching the people who it can provide the most assistance to. That has been my heartfelt wish all along - for our journey to provide support to others. In the prologue I shared a bit about why I wrote the book. Here is that paragraph from the prologue: 

I know I am not the only person who has had an intense bond with their animal, nor am I the only one who has gone to extremes to help an animal recover from the abuse they suffered or heal their own trauma. My intention in sharing our journey is to light a path for those who find themselves with similar challenges. Whether you are someone who is extremely sensitive and feels things very deeply or you are trying to heal the past or you are in a process of self-discovery, my hope is that you’ll experience some “aha” moments and points of connection through this book that can assist you on your own journey, and maybe even inspire you to find your way to a deeper understanding and appreciation of all you have to offer too.

Review by Foluso Falaye for Readers' Favorite:

Maureen Burkley's Lucky For Me is the author's story about her tough but highly rewarding journey with her dog. The author's German Shepherd, Lucky, went from a traumatic experience as a puppy to being rescued by a caring human. As Maureen drew closer to Lucky, she found out about the dog's health challenges and other signs of the lingering effects of trauma. However, she also saw herself discovering similar battles as she strived to be the best human friend to her dog and attend to Lucky's needs. From hospital visits to water therapy and chaotic encounters with other dogs, Maureen's journey with her dog is captured in a very compelling tale. Get ready to meet a resilient and caring human and her playful and adorable German Shepherd in this deeply poignant memoir.

The many profound deductions in the book are quite enlightening. I found myself pausing to reflect on the author's thought-provoking observations, such as her belief that animals "come into our lives to help us reconnect with our true selves." Maureen Burkley's determination not to give up on Lucky, despite being advised to, and the dog's multiple challenges inspires you to tackle any situation life throws at you. Lucky's recovery process and struggle with trauma are depicted well alongside Maureen's challenges with her family and other personal issues. The author's experiences in difficult moments and being on edge when she took her dog outside reveal that her dog rescuer role was far from easy. This soulfully written memoir will make animal lovers feel deeply emotional and captivated from start to finish. I feel very fortunate to have read Lucky For Me.

Lucky For Me - More Reviews!

I'm excited to report that my book, Lucky For Me - A Journey of Healing and Self-discovery, has had the great fortune of receiving some more wonderful reviews!!  

I personally like to read reviews before I make any kind of purchase - whether it's a product or a service. Hearing what other people's experience has been (not just what the author, service provider or product manufacturer says), gives me much more insight into whether or not something is a fit for ME. In case any of you are like me, I decided it might be helpful to share the recent reviews here.  :-)  

***

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 what 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 

and

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.

***

And for those of you who may have missed previous reviews, here are a couple more: 

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 of 18 Pair Of Shoes

***

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.