Dive into the heartwarming world of Debbie Burns’ Rescue Me series, where love stories bloom amidst the wagging tails and purring kittens of a no-kill animal shelter. This contemporary romance collection captures the magic of second chances, blending human connections with the unbreakable bond between people and their pets. If you’re a fan of sweet romance and furry friends, Rescue Me is your next cozy read!
Set in the vibrant city of St. Louis, each novel in the series intertwines the lives of passionate animal lovers with the challenges and joys of running the High Grove Animal Shelter. With its irresistible mix of heartfelt drama and adorable animals, Rescue Me has won over readers who crave stories of healing and hope.
How Rescue Me Began
Debbie Burns, a St. Louis native and animal enthusiast, crafted the Rescue Me series from her deep love for rescue pets and her knack for storytelling. Inspired by her own experiences with rescue dogs and a grumpy Maine Coon cat, Burns wanted to shine a light on the transformative power of animal rescue. Her debut novel, A New Leash on Love, launched the series in 2017, earning a starred review from Publishers Weekly and setting the stage for a beloved saga. Burns’ journey to publication wasn’t easy—she honed her craft through years of writing manuscripts and entering contests, but her persistence paid off with a series that resonates with pet lovers worldwide.
The Heart of Rescue Me
The Rescue Me series spans seven books, each a standalone romance centered around the High Grove Animal Shelter. A New Leash on Love (2017) introduces Megan Anderson, a dedicated shelter director, and Craig Williams, a single father grappling with heartbreak. Their slow-burn romance unfolds as they work to save the shelter’s animals, proving that love can mend broken hearts. Sit, Stay, Love (2018) follows Kelsey Sutton and ex-military dog trainer Kurt Crawford, who bond over rehabilitating rescue dogs from a fighting ring, exploring themes of trust and redemption.
My Forever Home (2018) tells the story of Tess Grasso, a vet school dropout, and Mason Redding, a recovering baseball player. A stray Husky teaches them about forgiveness, making this a fan favorite for its emotional depth. Love at First Bark (2019) brings Mia Chambers and Ben Thomas together during a chaotic rescue of abandoned border collies, weaving a tender tale of unspoken love and new beginnings. These stories, set against the backdrop of St. Louis’ charm, highlight themes of healing, community, and the joy of giving animals—and people—a second chance.
Burns’ writing is clean and heartfelt, with a focus on character-driven plots and vivid animal personalities. Readers praise the series for its realistic portrayal of shelter life and its ability to balance romance with deeper issues like loss and recovery, making it perfect for fans of authors like Jill Shalvis or Hallmark movies.
Why Rescue Me Resonates
Rescue Me has carved a special place in contemporary romance, not just for its swoon-worthy love stories but for its celebration of animal rescue. Burns’ novels have inspired readers to adopt pets from local shelters, a testament to the series’ real-world impact. With accolades like the HOLT Medallion and glowing reviews from RT Book Reviews, the series appeals to animal lovers and romance enthusiasts alike. Its enduring charm lies in its message: love, whether for a person or a pet, can heal even the deepest wounds.
- Publication Years: 2017–2023
- Number of Books: 7
- Notable Award: HOLT Medallion
- Setting: St. Louis, Missouri
Ready to fall in love with Rescue Me? Grab A New Leash on Love and discover a world where romance and rescue go paw in paw!