Lucas: Book Two by Alison Bellringer
This review first appeared on Reader Views. Read the Reader Views version here.
Alison Bellringer’s trilogy continues with Lucas: Book Two delving deeper into the world of its predecessor Whisper: Book One. This time though, the story focuses on the character Lucas who starts off much like Britney, a runaway seeking shelter. Along with him for the first leg of his journey is the dog of the family that took him in (and he then left behind): Bandit. However, Bandit tragically dies while defending Lucas, leaving him even more alone in the world. He is then lucky enough to cross paths with the kindly Ruby and her ill husband, Seth, whose daughter just ran away.
Ruby and Seth take Lucas in and, as he grows, the three become a family. Later, Britney and Whisper enter Lucas’ life and make it all the better, despite the initial confusion Britney’s presence brings. For readers of Whisper: Book One, nearly all of the characters will be familiar, but will now be with some added depth.
Lucas was a standup fellow in Whisper: Book One. Readers of the first book will know him as the loyal son to Ruby, devoted protector of Britney, Whisper, and Britney’s Ma, and kindly supporter who ultimately helps Britney’s Pa transform into a decent parent and partner. However, this book introduces additional depth to the title character, filling out his backstory. It was also great to see another canine protector, Bandit, appear and I believe this will be a theme throughout the whole trilogy. Although, it should be noted for sensitive readers that Bandit dies due to an animal attack.
Lucas: Book Two is best read in conjunction with Whisper: Book One and, I suspect, the third in the trilogy as they are all pieces of the same puzzle. Reading the entire trilogy will give readers the best perspective on everyone—including every dog—involved in this family tale.
Author Alison Bellringer has done a good job of fitting together this second piece of the family puzzle. Lucas: Book Two rounds out the comforting character of Lucas and gives some additional purpose to him. I look forward to reading the final installment of Bellringer’s trilogy.
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