Note: I received this book from the author/publisher in exchange for an honest review. 
 Dachshunds are my favorite dog breed. I've wanted one ever since I was a kid. So I was instantly drawn to this book because of the cute pup on the cover. I didn't even really read the summary, I just thought "Oh, dachshund book, let's do this, could be cute." And it was cute and then it was less cute and then it was odd and then it was so very sad. 
 I'm not so sure I could describe this book properly. Contemporary, animal friend, magic realism-ish? It's clear that the main character and Lily, the dog, are best friends. They talk to each other (with real words) and share hobbies and just love the heck out of each other. And it's so touching and real, I hugged my dog and cat close several times just because I was reminded of how awesome pets are. But often the lines are blurred between reality and fantasy and I was sometimes confused, which made me question everything I read. And there were moments where it was over the top quirky that I didn't find myself enjoying parts. But the book is so real and heartfelt, that alone is worth the 3 stars. Minus one star for how hard I cried though. 
 This is a lovely book and delightfully written and dog lovers will find lots of parts to nod along with. Lots of emotions so get the tissues ready if you have a soft spot for animal best friends.