It has bee three years since Meredith Mancuso's fiance, Kyle, was murdered. After all the "what ifs", Meredith has become a recluse. A successful author of a romantic Ghost Ranch series, Meredith is blocked and having trouble creating her overdue sequel. Countless, unanswered calls from her editor, threatening her to return the money paid in advance. She sleeps constantly and when awake, she watches cooking shows on TV with the sound muted. Piles of dirty dishes, unread mail, she is unkempt not bothering to shower or comb her hair. She ignores all communication from family and friends.

One afternoon, her sister, Monica, knocks at her apartment door; she is holding a Yorkshire Terrier, named Prozac. Prozac is the pet of Monica's best client, Helen Hendrix. Helen has been hospitalized with a broken ankle, and she has asked Monica to pet-sit. Monica is allergic and is unable to do it. Because Meredith works from home, Monica feels she can do her a favor and care for Prozac. After refusing, Monica begs Meredith to come to her aid. Meredith relents. Prozac is left in her care and their journey together begins.

Never having a pet, Meredith and Prozac have a rocky beginning. Their time together is full of trials and hilarious experiences. Prozac is a Certified Therapy Dog who has a busy schedule with standing appointments with "his people" at Evergreen Gardens, which is an independent living facility. Prozac is a star there, who has his own fan club including a judge. The residents of Evergreen Gardens are colorful, loving, and each with a story all their own. Prozac is truly special, smart, loved by all. He always makes the person feel better, leaving them with a smile on their face. Meredith finds new friends, a sweet romance with Razzle-Dazzle David Radcliff, who I fell in love with too.

I had to put THE THING IS down almost at the conclusion and think about the unexpected events happening; I cried and continued on. Kathleen Gerard is a sterling storyteller who held my heart in her hands from start to finish. I recommend THE THING IS to everyone who is a pet lover (or not) and to anyone who is grieving or facing the unknown. THE THING IS brings hope, happiness, and new beginnings. This is my BEST read this year, and my thanks and kudos to Ms. Gerard. You nailed it!