Raw, immersive, and emotionally rich.
In Reilly’s compelling novel, a pacifist pit bull, rescued from a brutal fighting ring and given a new life among stray dogs in a hidden junkyard sanctuary, must decide whether to fight when ruthless rivals threaten to destroy her newfound family. Maytag didn’t expect to survive. Once a pit bull named Ninja, she chose death over harming another dog in Mr. Fergusen’s brutal fighting ring. Left for dead, she’s rescued by Dodge and welcomed into a hidden tribe of junkyard strays. For the first time, she finds belonging. But peace is short-lived. When Saab and a vengeful wolf threaten war, Maytag must decide if protecting her new family is worth breaking her vow against violence. With the grit of classic animal survival fiction and a layered coming-of-age core, Reilly brings the junkyard to life. Driven by Maytag’s emotional conflict, the narrative examines compassion in a harsh, unforgiving world. Rich character dynamics, ever-present human threat, and a vivid setting add to themes of belonging, identity, and moral responsibility.
A gripping and emotionally resonant story that asks whether peace can survive in a world built on violence, and what it truly means to fight for those you love.
Rich Denver (Illustrator)
Pub date January 25, 2026
ISBN January 25, 2026
Reading age 8-18 years
Price $6.99 (USD) Kindle edition, $0.00 Kindle unlimited.
