By Christine Baker
About Raising Artemis
A celebration of the extraordinary bond between humans and the animals who guide them
In Raising Artemis, the story unfolds through the eyes of Lucy, a wise Birman cat who narrates from beyond, offering the perspective of a devoted companion entrusted with a sacred mission: to tell the story of her beloved human, Dr. Artemis Nicche.
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Artemis begins her journey as a physician at Yale New Haven Hospital during the height of the Covid-19 pandemic. After the devastating loss of a patient and a series of panic attacks, she is forced to step away from the career that once defined her. What follows is not just a struggle with anxiety, but a reckoning with a long-buried childhood tragedy — the death of her brother Jack beneath the branches of the family’s oak tree, an event that shaped her path into medicine.
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Guided by Lucy and joined by a circle of loyal animal companions — from childhood pets Sam the black Labrador and Charlie the Siamese, to the spirited Burmese kitten Phoebe and two steadfast Labradors, Maggie and Jessie — Artemis begins to rediscover herself. With their quiet wisdom and unwavering presence, she finds the courage to let go of the stethoscope and embrace a new calling at a local animal shelter.
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There, Artemis transforms personal loss into collective healing, ultimately becoming the shelter’s Executive Director. Through triumphs and setbacks — including rebuilding after a devastating fire — she finds purpose, love, and community. In time, Artemis’s life becomes a testament to the healing power of animals and the resilience of the human spirit.
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When her journey comes full circle, Lucy reveals the most profound truth: Artemis is never truly alone. In her final moments, she is surrounded by every animal she ever loved, reunited with her brother and parents, and finally at peace — understanding that every step, no matter how painful, carried her toward the life she was meant to live.
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Blending the emotional depth of The Art of Racing in the Rain and A Dog’s Purpose with a touch of spirituality and magical realism, Raising Artemis is a heartfelt meditation on grief, healing, and the extraordinary bond between humans and the animals who walk beside us.
The Story Behind the Story
Our Story
I wrote Raising Artemis during the stillness of Covid, when the world outside grew quiet but the voices of memory and imagination grew louder. Every beloved animal I’ve shared my life with found its way into these pages. The book is my homage to them — companions, guardians, and teachers.
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I’ve always felt a special connection to animals. As an only child, I imagined I wasn’t truly alone — because Sam, my black Labrador, was my older brother, and Charlie, a mischievous Siamese cat, was my younger one. They were family, confidants, and guides. That bond has lasted a lifetime, shaping how I see the world and how I write.
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Raising Artemis is a story born of that connection — a novel written in gratitude, love, and remembrance of the animals who walk beside us and lead us forward.
Join the Artemis Circle
Be part of the journey before the book even launches.
Step into the world of Raising Artemis early. As a member of the Artemis Circle, you’ll get:
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Behind-the-scenes updates as the book comes to life.
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First look access to the cover reveal and early excerpts.
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Exclusive livestreams and Q&As with author Christine Baker.
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Special bonuses only for Circle members.
Joining is free — it’s my way of saying thank you for being part of this story from the very beginning.