The Dogs of Venice

AN INSTANT USA TODAY BESTSELLER

From the New York Times bestselling author of The Celebrants and The Guncle, a heartwarming story about finding oneself in one of the most romantic cities on Earth.


After months of planning a romantic holiday getaway in Venice, Paul is blindsided when his five-year marriage suddenly unravels. Fueled by heartbreak, Paul endeavors to take the trip alone.

Soon after arriving in Italy, he notices a small, scruffy, self-assured dog trotting alongside a canal with the confidence he so desperately wants for himself. When their paths cross again, Paul feels compelled to learn how his new four-legged friend thrives on his own. Amid the food, sights, and welcoming people of Venice, Paul’s journey culminates in a magical encounter that leads him to feel real connection—to a dog, to a foreign city and, most importantly, to himself.

Capturing Steven Rowley's signature wit, insight, and indelible characters, The Dogs of Venice offers another timeless story of love lost, and independence found—a holiday tonic for the soul.

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Published Oct 14, 2025

80 pages

Average rating: 8.5

2 RATINGS

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Community Reviews

Allison Nelson
Dec 10, 2025
8/10 stars
I love the author so I jumped at the chance to read this short story. I think I will always come back to it when I find myself at a crossroads, unsure of myself and where I fit into the world. It was just enough story to make an impact!

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