Nina and the Orange Dog

When Nina finds herself tutting at small children she realises she’s turning into someone she doesn’t like very much: small-minded, impatient and disapproving.

She used to have people to care for. But her adored husband died years ago, her son is grown up and friends have long since drifted away.

Nobody needs her. She still finds joy in the changing seasons, walks by the Thames and watching dogs chase squirrels in the park.

But at times the emptiness of life overwhelms her. A chance encounter with a new neighbour brings one of the squirrel hunters to her door.

Neville is an irresistible mass of orange fur and chaotic enthusiasm.

Soon Nina and Neville are regulars among the friendly world of local dog walkers.

Then her mother has a bad fall. Nina rushes to Cornwall to help. She feels needed again. Is there still room in her life for her own friends and an excitable orange dog?