Maddy comes from a busy family. A tennis champ sister, star runner brother and parents with hectic jobs; there is never time to stop and smell the roses! But Maddy isn’t interested in the hustle and bustle of a busy life, all she wants to do is play with her best friend — her dog, Gusto — and dawdle on her way to school, spending time with all the dogs that live on her route. So, when Gusto goes missing, Maddy’s family are not very sympathetic – Maddy is on her own. As her search begins, she discovers that a bite from an Irish Wolfhound gives her the power to talk to dogs and what they are saying is Gusto may not have become lost — he may have been stolen! Can Maddy find the thieves and save Gusto and the other missing dogs from her neighbourhood before it’s too late?

Queen of Dogs is a fun, captivating mystery for kids who love animals. It celebrates the important role dogs play in so many people’s lives and encourages kids to follow their passion and believe in themselves. I loved hearing the humorous things the dogs were saying and found the ending so satisfying. Highly recommended for ages 8+.