Synopsis

A bond so strong that the gate to Rainbow Bridge can’t hold it back.

As veterinarian Michelle Catalano helps other people’s ailing animals earn their angel wings, she tries not to think about the empty cat perch in her own home. Or the empty side of her bed, grown cold since her boyfriend left town.

Then a pet psychic’s uncannily accurate reading leaves Michelle with more questions than the answers she thought were set in stone. And warnings so dark, she wishes she still had her cat at her side to cuddle the fear away.

When a brutal murder devastates Michelle and her family, the detective working the case is her only anchor. And soon, she’s turning to Bruce for the comfort that could heal her broken heart.

But there are too many unanswered questions about the killer, causing Michelle to secretly investigate on her own. Will Michelle’s search for answers spell her doom, or deliver help from the animal afterlife above?

Praise

“When the Time Is Right is a women’s fiction murder mystery filled with heartbreak and hope. Perfect for fans of A Street Cat Named Bob, The Art of Racing in the Rain, and animal lovers who have experienced the powerful connection between themselves and their furry friends.” ~ bestselling author Deborah Brown

“A story for people who believe our pets watch over us after they are gone.” ~ K.Phelps/Reader

“Our book club loved When the Time Is Right. It was a unique tale of tragedy, healing after loss, with a sprinkle of the supernatural. It totally stole our hearts!” ~ J. Nelson/Reader

Review

If you are looking for a light read, do not pick up this book. But if you are looking for a book that will punch your soul then by all means read this one.

This book is billed as a mystery, and while there are some mystery aspects, I really felt like it was a book about family and surviving a tragedy. You can really feel the grief from the various characters and the various stages. I appreciated that they sought solace in each other and in a support group too.

Michelle is a veterinarian that has decided to move into home euthanasia for those pets that are ready to cross the rainbow bridge.  I wish I had someone like her a few years ago when it was time for ours to cross. Each story is heartbreaking but cathartic at the same time. I like how she eventually asks them to share a funny story about their pet. What a great way to bring back some happy memories for the pet owners. I think it also helps her miss her cat a little less. I found it interesting that she spoke to a psychic that shared some details with her about her cat, Blackjack, and how he was going to help her. Granted it was a little vague because if we knew exactly how life was going to turn out it wouldn’t be interesting. Anyway, I say this because I spoke to a psychic when my first dog passed. It was quite an interesting experience.

I enjoyed the closeness of Michelle to her mom and twin sister. They only had each other after her father passed away when she was younger and despite all, they remained close even to the present. A tragedy could have easily torn them all apart, but it actually brought them closer.

I was intrigued by the mystery aspect and wondered if the crime would be solved. It was hard on everyone in the family and I appreciated the grief support group that they attended to try and get through what happened. Now, I have to say when the perpetrator of the crime was uncovered, I don’t know that it was really known if this person was guilty or not. Events occurred that don’t allow us to truly know the answer. But Michelle did receive some closure to the crime.

There is even a bit of romance for Michelle and I appreciated that they took it slow and took the time to get to know one another especially after the crime threw them together.

This was a very enjoyable book but definitely sad and perhaps a bit heavy considering the subject matter. But we still enjoyed it and give it 4 paws up.

About the Author

Kim Cano is the author of five women’s fiction novels: A Widow Redefined, On the Inside, Eighty and Out, His Secret Life, and When the Time Is Right. Readers say her books are about strong women who struggle but survive, hard-won second chances, family life, and friendship.

Kim has also written a short story collection called For Animal Lovers. 10% of the sale price of that book is donated to the ASPCA® to help homeless pets.

Visit her website to download a free copy of The Rescue.

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