Animal Instinct

The dogs in the story feel so integral and charming — I wonder if this was based on real cases or pure fiction. How did the author decide on this unique angle?

The bond between the characters and their dogs added depth, but also made some moments quite heart-wrenching. Did others find themselves rooting for the animals as much as the humans?

The book manages to be both thrilling and lighthearted at times, which is a tricky mix. I’m curious whether that was a deliberate choice or evolved naturally during writing.