The Stray Dogs

The brand new utterly heartwarming novel, for all dog-lovers

They say you can't teach an old dog new tricks, but Desmond and Leona are about to find out that it's never too late to start living your dreams . . .

Since his marriage ended, Desmond Leaks has been stuck in rut. But living alone does have some upsides - for one, there's no one to tell him that he's 'not allowed' chocolate spread on his toast.

And for Leona Lennox, a fresh start might just mean she can finally open that rescue centre for abandoned dogs she's always dreamed of. That's if she can learn to let people in occasionally - and accept help.

Take this Desmond guy, he's so nice that he's offering to get his old band back together to play some fundraising gigs for the rescue centre. If only Leona could say yes, just this once . . . The Stray Dogs might actually be decent, right?

But the band haven't played together in years, and if they have any chance of making this work, Desmond will have to track down charismatic frontman Darcus McGuire. But how do you find someone who doesn't want to be found . . . ?

Coming August 2026

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Image of paperback book: The Stray Dogs by Ruth Hogan

★★★★★

‘A truly remarkable book that has the rarest of abilities to lighten your soul and warm your heart’

Reader review

★★★★★

‘A heartwarming, uplifting, humorous, life-affirming story of love and friendship in all their forms’

Reader review

★★★★★

‘A delightful story of community, friendship and care for both canine and human companions’

Reader review

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