Forever Ripley

A deeply personal middle-grade novel by award-winning author McCall Hoyle affirms the powerful and enduring relationship between dogs and humans.

Ripley, an aging German Shepherd Dog, spent her life guarding the wildlife refuge with Max, the best man she’s ever known. But that was before the accident, before he gave her one final job: “Take care of the girls.”

And Ripley has done just that—especially for Charlie, the girl Ripley loves even more than peanut butter. Ripley watches over Charlie with dedication, especially when faced with bullies who threaten the refuge. But Ripley is slowing down. She knows dogs don’t last forever.

Sensing their time together is running out, Charlie plans a farewell adventure filled with Ripley’s favorite things—fried chicken, sandpiper chasing on the beach, and ice cream in Nags Head. Through it all, they learn that love isn’t about holding on—it’s about lifting each other up.

A heartwarming tribute to love, resilience, and the joy of a life well lived, Forever Ripley proves that even in goodbye, there is beauty, courage, and the promise of new beginnings.