Kudos to the author, Ms. von Kreisler, for taking a difficult subject and handling it with grace, empathy and compassion. Tessa’s ordeal was described without the use of graphic details, but the pain as emotional despair came through clearly.

Will, the prosecutor, was also well portrayed. Yes, he needed enough evidence to get a conviction, but he also clearly cared deeply for the survivors. The interaction between him and the survivors is also a very accurate portrayal.

We can’t forget Hope, the lovely emotional support dog that got these ladies through the aftermath. Too many people these days try to pass off their pets as emotional support animals to bypass rules, but Hope is the real thing. A dog trained so well that she can sense a person’s emotions and provide comfort is a beautiful thing.

I experienced many emotions throughout reading this book, with no regrets. Thanks to the author, publisher and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this book, but my opinions are my own.

This book was a difficult read but also a wonderful story. Tessa's story of rape and the aftermath was upsetting but I loved the relationship that Tessa gained with Hope. I feel that dog lovers are going to love this wonderful story.

Tessa Jordan is a bookmobile librarian. In her free time she cares for stray cats. She doesn’t have a love life so when she meet Nick Payne she accepts his invitation to dinner at his house. He is a respected member of the community so she feels good about the date. After she has wine she feels kind of woosy so she delines any more. She remembers nothing when she wakes up. She feels sore and believes that she did not consent to sex as Nick implies. She believes that he raped her and after talking to her friend, decides to go to the police. The prosecutor Will Armstrong declines to peruse the case for lack of evidence. Tessa is distraught and finds comfort in Hope the courthouse therapy dog. Will wants to get justice for Tessa and pursues the leads that he has. Great insight into rape victims and the struggles they face in seeking justice.

This is an intense, heart-wrenching, journey of a young woman named Tessa and a beloved pup named Hope.
Tessa meets Hope following a traumatic event in her life that causes insecurity, fear and distrust to the max!
Hope is a trained courthouse dog that has the job of comforting people. She feels a person's anguish and knows when a hug is necessary. Tessa absolutely is in need of Hope and her friends to help her survive this heinous incident

This story created emotions for me that made me uncomfortable at times.
It has triggers for those who have been involved in abuse.
However, it shows strength, compassion and love.
The character of Tessa challenges the system to advocate for her rights and what is right.
She is strong!
I was anxious to learn of the ending of Tessa’s story and therefore it was a very quick, but intriguing book.
I will remember this novel for a long time!

This is my first book by this author, and I can't wait to read more. The adorable dog on the cover caught my attention first. The dog, Hope, is trained to help people through pain, stress, etc by soothing them with her presence. She lives with Will, a prosecuting attorney who handles a lot of domestic violence cases. When a high profile case lands on his desk, Will tries to assure the victim he will do everything in his power to get justice for what she's been through. Between Will fighting for the victim, and Hope trying to console the victim through this trial, will justice be served?
You will not want to put this down! What a page turner! I'm grateful for an advanced copy of this book from netgalley.