Charleston author Rob Liotti has released his second book of 2026, an illustrated children’s book titled Giada’s Lucky Day — A Heartwarming Rescue Story of Loyalty and Love. The book follows Liotti’s psychological thriller Zero Turn and his nonfiction consumer advisory for the horse industry, The Consumer Guide to Horse Ownership and Purchase, which includes a foreword by veterinary practitioner Zack Mills, DVM. This is the author’s third release in the past six months on the Equine Consumer Limited publishing imprint.
Giada’s Lucky Day is an uplifting true story about a lonely, neglected dog who musters the courage to escape into the unknown before a little girl assists in her capture and begs her godfather to give the pup a loving home. But Giada’s biggest challenge is yet to come.
“I think the most satisfying thing about the story is that it is 100% true,” Liotti said. “Illustrated children’s books are generally 32 pages, or thereabouts, and have a word count of 500-1,000 words. The stories move forward bolstered by the illustrations. Literally, every word counts and has to move the story forward. Notwithstanding all that, the through line has to convey the story’s message to the reader or through the narrator.”
While Giada’s escape, capture and rehabilitative care set up the story, it is the pup’s persistence in trying to gain the love and affection of Jenny, a 27-year-old woman who resists falling in love with the dog, that drives the narrative.
“All of the elements came together in this story, told just the way they happened. Naturally, I don’t want to spoil it, but the little pup finally wins Jenny’s heart,” Liotti said. “Suffice it to say, the book is very inspirational and teaches a thoughtful lesson of determination and second chances.”