London's No 1 Dog-Walking Agency: 'Charming, funny, heartwarming' - Adam Kay

A heartwarming and humorous novel about a woman who walks dogs for a living and the dogs and people she meets along the way, set in the world of the gig economy.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 384 pages
Publication date: 10 November 2022
Publisher: Bonnier Books Ltd

A truly delightful book for dog enthusiasts, "London's No. 1 Dog-Walking Agency" by Jilly Cooper is a captivating and heartwarming tale that will leave you wanting more. This charming novel is filled with delightful dogs, humor, and warmth, making it an absolute delight from start to finish.

Bestselling author Adam Kay, renowned for his witty and poignant storytelling, praises the book, stating, "Charming, funny, heartwarming, and full of dogs—what more could you want?"

Stacey Halls, another bestselling author, adds her praise, stating, "A joy from start to finish. I loved it!"

Ruth Hogan, a renowned author known for her captivating novels, describes the book as "absolutely glorious." She praises it as a "romp of a book" that will keep you entertained and engaged throughout.

Kate MacDougall, the protagonist of the story, had always felt that her heart wasn't truly in her job at Sotheby's. While her friends were finding their dream jobs and soaring up the career ladder, Kate felt stuck in a mundane and back-office existence. After yet another breakage, this time involving two precious porcelain pigeons, she decided to take a leap of faith and venture into the unknown world of the then-nascent gig economy.

"London's No. 1 Dog-Walking Agency" chronicles Kate's next nine years and the dogs (and people) she encounters along the way. The novel is a delightful blend of humor, heartache, and personal growth.

One of the standout characters in the book is Winston, a Labrador who is not allowed to get muddy, even after his owners split up and enlist Kate in their custody battle. Kate's interactions with Winston and her efforts to navigate the complex legal proceedings add depth and complexity to the story.

Another delightful trio of characters are the chic Islington couples whose immaculately arranged dog-walking schedule is thrown off when one of them gets involved with the dog walker Kate has employed. Their interactions with Kate and the challenges they face provide moments of humor and camaraderie.

Kate's long-suffering boyfriend, Finlay, is a dog-agnostic who doesn't quite understand her love for dogs. Their relationship adds a touch of romance and conflict to the story, as Kate tries to balance her passion for dogs with Finlay's skepticism.

Kate's mother, on the other hand, is always on the alert for wedding bells, hoping that her daughter will find the perfect partner and settle down. Their interactions provide a glimpse into Kate's family dynamics and the pressure she feels to conform to societal expectations.

Throughout the novel, Kate grapples with questions about what she wants from life and how to achieve it. She navigates the challenges of the gig economy, encounters various dogs with unique personalities, and explores her own personal growth.

"London's No. 1 Dog-Walking Agency" is a delightful and uplifting story that will appeal to dog lovers and anyone who enjoys a good laugh and a heartwarming tale. Jilly Cooper's writing is witty and engaging, and the characters are well-developed and relatable. This book is a must-read for anyone who loves dogs, or for anyone who is looking for a refreshing and enjoyable read.

Weight: 284g
Dimension: 130 x 197 x 26 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781788704335