Recently divorced Ellie Engleman is reclaiming her life after a disastrous marriage. First on her list is adopting a dog, which she couldn't have previously due to her ex's allergies. Ellie is stunned when one of the potential adoptees speaks to her, telling her he's the reincarnation of her beloved pet who was killed while she was honeymooning. Strangely enough Ellie soon discovers that she can communicate with most dogs, which is an advantage in her new career as a dog walker.

Ellie works hard to develop a clientele to support herself and Rudy, her Yorkiepoo constant companion. While picking up her charges, Ellie discovers the body of Professor Albright. And his prize-winning bichon frise Buddy is missing. Ellie immediately suspects foul play, since Buddy is unlikely to have run away from his beloved owner. With help of the canine variety, she plays amateur detective, much to the chagrin of hunky yet irritating Detective Sam Ryder.

The more Ellie looks into Buddy's disappearance, the more she runs across Detective Ryder. She finds him strangely compelling even though she's sworn off men after her divorce. Will she find Buddy before he's gone for good? Will Detective Ryder ever admit that she's aided in his case? Will Ellie's snooping arouse the attention of a killer?

HOUNDING THE PAVEMENT, the first book in the Dog Walker mystery series, is a treat for everyone, whether a dog lover or not. The motives of the killer aren't obvious immediately and should provide an enjoyable puzzle for readers to solve. Ms. McCoy has written a cozy mystery sure to please. As an added incentive to try this book, all of Ms. McCoy's royalties for the book are being donated to Best Friends Animal Society.