A fast-paced, inventive sequel packed with humor, teamwork, and escalating stakes.
In Hines’s hilarious, high-energy sequel to A Boy and His D.O.G. series, Blu and his loyal robot partner are thrust back into action when supposedly defunct TechPals begin glitching across town and bonding with his friends—most memorably C.A.T., a razor-tongued feline who claims Calvin as her own. As rogue TechPals V.I.P.E.R., G.O.R.I.L.L.A., and P.I.G. target Blu and D.O.G., it becomes clear that a threat more dangerous than Hextron may be manipulating events from the shadows.
Hines broadens the series’ scope with the formation of the TechPal Taskforce and riotously chaotic training scenes on alien jungle world Drunok, where Blu is pushed to shift from lone reactor to genuine leader. The ensemble—Calvin, Josie, Arabella, Steele, and their distinct TechPals—brings personality-driven humor and conflict, while Blu’s blend of bravado, doubt, and heart keeps the emotional throughline strong. The upgraded, emotionless D.O.G. 2.0’s presence raises the stakes from local mayhem to galactic danger. With smart twists, sharp character work, and a villain worth fearing, this second installment makes for a must-read.
Hines’ Publishing
Pub date September 9, 2025
ISBN 979-8999832108
Price $19.00 (USD) Hardcover, $13.00 Paperback, $4.99 Kindle edition
A heartfelt thank-you to The Prairies Book Review for the fantastic review of Rise of the TechPals!
Thrilled to see Blu and the gang’s next mission resonating with readers.