I received this book from Netgalley/the publisher in exchange of an honest review.

I was delighted when I heard that Yen Press children/MG’s imprint would be adding light novels to the mix! So when I saw this one and another one with horror I just had to request it. I am so happy I had the chance to read these two books (my review for Horror Collector was posted a few hours ago) and I hope that many more books will be added to this imprint!

😍 I was at first a bit worried that this one would also contain the POV of the dog, but thankfully not. Don’t get me wrong, sometimes it works, but quite often hearing the dog talk/think/etc. just really doesn’t work. So I was happy that in this one we just follow Hinata and see Chris, the dog, through his eyes. And Chris was such a cutie, though he really should get over his fear for bugs. I mean, a butterfly flaps in front of you, a dapper police dog, and your first instinct is to just run away? Not a good move. I loved seeing Chris settle at Hinata’s place, get more comfortable at that place, help out with Hinata and his shy-ness, plus see him have a grand adventure. Because this doggo still is 100% into searching, finding, and help solve mysteries, and that made me smile!
😍 The mystery was a lot of fun to read! I loved how we got hints and bits and pieces here and there and see it all come together. Find out why that person, who was so friendly and kind, went to this angst-ridden person they are now. Find out what is up with the missing bag. But also see how it connects with the stolen jewellery and the break-ins throughout the city.
😍 And while for most it was just calm and chill, it does really get exciting in the last part! The kids are now fully going for it and are dedicated to solving the mystery. And that means hitching a ride in a car, meeting criminals, and some more exciting moments that had me cheering for these kids, Chris, and oh yes, let’s not forget Hinata’s grandpa, dang.
😍 I loved that Hinata’s family had a vet practice and loved seeing what kind of animals visited. Yes, we don’t see a lot of that, but there are glimpses, and one owner in particular plays an important role in the story.
😍 The fabulous manga art throughout the novel. It made me smile and I love the art style! Chris is adorable!
😍 I loved seeing Hinata come out of his shell more and more. See him teach Chris new things + learn how to handle Chris + take care of him. I loved that he has the help of his parents, but also gets tips from his grandfather who is (or was) a dog trainer!
😍 I loved that Chris was a police dog. I mean, he wasn’t one long, but he is definitely a great one, as long as he doesn’t meet any bugs. It is something different from your standard police dogs!
😍 I loved reading the descriptions of the town Hinata and his family lived in. See the neighbours. See the shops. It was fun and I could definitely imagine walking around while reading.

😶 On the one hand I like Mayuka, the best friend of Hinata, but sometimes she was just a bit annoying.

All in all, I cannot wait for the next volume in the series, I want to see what is next for Chris and Hinata!