Cat on a Hot Tin Woof

Chet and Bernie Mystery #16

by Spencer Quinn

Join Chet the dog, "the most lovable narrator in all of fiction" (Boston Globe), and his human partner Bernie as they scramble to solve a case exposing the dark side of internet fame.

Chet the dog is less than enthusiastic about the Little Detective Agency’s next case. Chet and his human partner, PI Bernie Little, have been hired to find a missing person—only the missing person is a cat. Miss Kitty, an internet sensation, has disappeared, and Chet and Bernie have been hired to find her before her many followers realize something is wrong.

Miss Kitty belongs to Bitty, a sweet teenage girl who lives with her mom. Bitty and her mother are struggling financially, but the arrival of Miss Kitty and the chance discovery of her social media appeal has changed everything. Bitty now has sponsors, a high-powered agent, and all the tools needed to thrive online, and real money is flowing in. At least, it was. With Miss Kitty gone, the family's income is on the line.

The case presents a slew of challenges for Chet and Bernie. For one thing, a potential witness is a pig named Senor Piggy who may be in possession of an important piece of evidence. For another, it seems like a possible perp has been killed twice—and there's evidence implicating Bernie in the crime.

Genres: Mystery, Humor, Fiction, Dogs, Animals, Crime, Cozy Mystery

Kindle Edition

Expected publication April 14, 2026

About the author

Spencer Quinn lives on Cape Cod with his dog Audrey, and is hard at work on the next Chet and Bernie adventure.

Spencer Quinn is a pseudonym of author Peter Abrahams.

Series:
* A Chet and Bernie Mystery

Reviews

[Literary Redhead · Rating 4 out of 5]

My first but certainly not my last in this clever series narrated by dog Chet, this time on the case with human P.I. Bernie Little as they set out to find a missing social media star, a cat named Miss Kitty. Charming and fun!

[David Blaylock · Rating 4 out of 5]

Chet’s quest to track down a cat made the latest Chet and Bernie book such a fun read.

[Monnie · Rating 4 out of 5]

I like Bernie Little. I love his dog Chet a lot. I’m way more fond of cats than dogs (sorry, Chet), and it’s a cat, after all, that gets this story rolling. But this particular adventure somehow needed another wheel or two to keep it on its usual entertaining fast track.

That doesn’t mean, however, that it moves along slowly; just like all the other books in this wonderful series (this is the 16th), it’s always a treat to get Chet’s take on the situation, and Chet isn’t known for dragging his feet (wagging his tail, maybe, but that means something entirely different). And when was the last time you got to see the world of a private detective through the eyes of a pooch who flunked out of K-9 school on the last day of training (blame that, too, on a cat)? No, it’s more that the plot itself was a bit less interesting to me than most of the others.

Here, Bernie’s Little Detective Agency has taken on the job, albeit reluctantly, of finding a missing cat. Miss Kitty, though, is no average feline; she’s a social media sensation, thanks to her owner, teenage Bitty. She lives with her mother Evelyn, and together they’re looking at raking in some serious and much-needed cash from sponsors. Up to now, Miss Kitty has had purrfect attendance in her media appearances, but suddenly she’s nowhere to be found. Bitty and her mom have been diligent in keeping doors and windows locked, so how on earth did she get out? More to the point, where did she go, and can Bernie and Chet find her so Bitty can sign a big contract worth even more money?

At the outset, there’s one primary suspect, but that turns out to be the wrong choice. So, Bernie and Chet take off once again to follow clues that lead to unexpected encounters with still another four-legged critter – one whose unfamiliar sniffs and snorts put Chet on high alert while Bernie focuses on following the evidence left by humans who might have a grudge against Miss Kitty or her owners.

It is, as always, a merry chase that leaves readers chuckling in spots as the irrepressible Chet shares his point of view as only he can. All in all, it’s another perplexing mystery solved in a very entertaining fashion with a bit of a bang-up ending. And once again, my thanks go to the publisher, via NetGalley, for the opportunity to get in on the action by way of a pre-release copy.

[Devi · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you, NetGalley, for the ARC copy.

Let me start by saying this: sixteen books in, and Spencer Quinn hasn’t lost a speck of magic. Somehow, the Chet and Bernie series keeps its charm while still feeling fresh, and Cat on a Hot Tin Woof absolutely proves that. What makes this one stand out is how much Chet detests the very idea of tracking down a cat and his inner commentary on why is laugh-out-loud funny. But of course, his devotion to Bernie wins out. That push-pull between canine instincts and loyalty makes for some of the most delightful passages.

What makes the Chet and Bernie Mystery series so special is the unique perspective. Everything is told from Chet’s point of view. The humor is authentic, the voice is charming, and you can’t help but fall in love with the way Spencer Quinn captures a dog’s worldview. This series has always blended the warmth of a cozy mystery with the intrigue of a detective novel, and Cat on a Hot Tin Woof continues the streak of clever plots, witty writing, and authentic character dynamics.

The pacing keeps you hooked, with just enough red herrings to make the detective work engaging without overwhelming the cozy vibe. While the mystery itself isn’t the most complex in the series, the authenticity of Chet’s voice and Bernie’s steady charm make every moment a joy. Fans of the previous 15 books will find this adventure just as captivating, with Quinn’s signature blend of heart, humor, and suspense. For anyone searching for a dog-themed cozy mystery or a laugh-out-loud detective novel, this one’s a must-read. Mark your calendar for April 14, 2026. This tail-wagging tale belongs on your TBR! I'm definitely going to revisit the audiobook once its out.

If this review tickled your detective senses 🕵️♀️🔍, come snoop around my blog for more feel-good mysteries, page-turning escapades, and the occasional plot twist that even I didn’t see coming. 📚✨ Swing by Views She Writes — where books aren’t just read, they’re interrogated (nicely) until the truth spills out.

[Donna · Rating 4 out of 5]

Chet and Bernie of the Little Detective Agency are once again on the case. Narrated by the intrepid Chet, a 100 pound very good doggie, the mystery  revolves around a Slickety sensation called Miss Kitty. Videos of this cat, seeming to be bored by everything her owner Bitty does, have gone viral and are raking in the bucks. Since her disappearance, her fans are voicing their dismay and her sponsors have their eye on Bratty Catty, a fat orange cat who can replace Miss Kitty. Bernie now has a reputation for solving difficult cases in The Valley so he's been hired to find the missing feline. BTW-Chet hates cats.
This one is a puzzler-does her disappearance have anything to do with Bitty's father, caught in a double homicide over copper rare earth leases?  Does it involve the Two Fillies's Ranch whose owners are mighty fond of their handguns? Or could it be about drugs, as per usual. Certainly Senor Piggie must be in the mix-he might hold the key to the whole caper. Meanwhile, the movie being made about Chet and Bernie is not coming together as it should-and that was going to be their big meal ticket.  
I have been following the adventures of Chet and Bernie for many years and I'm always so happy when Quinn gives his fans another novel. The progression of Bernie's life in The Valley of the Sun (read metropolitan Phoenix) as told by Chet, a black shepherd with one white ear, is always entertaining and it's great to catch up with Leda his ex, Weatherly, his on again off again fiancee, and the other familiar characters of the previous books. This one was one of the best in the series and I really enjoyed it. It's high time to get your meow on!

[Jan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Chet tells all from his own unique perspective which is very literal and reminiscent of a human on the spectrum. I think that each book is capable of being standalone but is more fun each time I read one.
Bernie is a private investigator in the American southwest and Chet is a failed K9 who narrates everything from his perspective. While Bernie Little runs the Little Detective Agency alone (with Chet) is a good investigator and does have a life outside of work that includes a teenaged son and a remarried ex-wife, Chet is a real laugh riot with his point of view and ability to make almost everything fun. But he does NOT like cats, and their assignment is to find a missing famous cat. Plenty of twists, turns, danger, crooks, and surprises as usual!
This is not an unbiased review as I have loved Chet's stories for more than 10 years.
I requested and received a temporary uncorrected digital galley from St. Martin's Press | Minotaur Books via NetGalley. Pub Date Apr 14, 2026 #preorder
#CatonaHotTinWoof by Spencer Quinn #ChetandBernieMysteriesBk16 @stmartinspress @minotaur_books #NetGalley #bookbub #thestorygraph #goodreads @librarythingofficial
#bookshop_org #bookshop_org_uk #bookshop_org_ca
#privateinvestigators #missing #murder #investigations #arizonadesert #suspense #excop #cat #exmilitary #partners #failedK9 #snarkyhumormurders #relationships #friendship #pig

[Kathryn E Hagen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sometimes you’re just in the mood for a mystery narrated by a dog. I sure was, and I’m glad I read “Cat on a Hot Tin Woof.” I’ve read others in this Spencer Quinn series, and none of them have disappointed. Bernie, a private investigator, and Chet, his canine sidekick and book narrator, are the main characters.

Miss Kitty has been reported missing by her human social media co-star, Bitty. Aside from being a beloved cat, Miss Kitty plays a crucial role in a video series that lands Bitty and her mom $75,000 a month.

Bernie is not too enthusiastic about lost-animal cases, and Chet is not crazy about looking for a cat. But young Bitty is very persuasive.

The investigation begins. Bernie suspects that someone has taken Miss Kitty– maybe a competitor for a lucrative sponsor contract. Chet performs some independent research and gets himself into trouble. He gains some valuable information, but, as usual, can’t tell Bernie what it is.

Chet and Bernie mysteries are well-written and, apart from the narrating dog, are pretty typical as mysteries go. A couple of bad guys usually bite the dust. People lie. Solving the case is no picnic.

I recommend “Cat on a Hot Tin Woof,” especially if you’re in the mood for a canine-infused mystery.

Thank you to NetGalley for the advance reader copy. This is my honest review.

[Roberta (Always Behind) · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was very excited to be able to receive and review an early copy of CAT ON A HOT TIN WOOF by Spencer Quinn.
In this sixteenth story in the Chet & Bernie series, the duos job is to find a cat who is very important to a young girl named Bitty. Her cat is part of a social media platform where Bitty has tons of followers. Those readers who have read the Chet & Bernie series over time, know that Chet is not fond of cats at all. But with a good fee for finding Miss Kitty, Chet can be persuaded to join in the search.
The search takes the two in many directions, sometimes quite dangerous. It's hard to tell, at times, who the "good guys" are.
A lot of characters from previous books make appearances such as Leda, Bernie's ex and his beloved son, Charlie. They all add to the tone of the storyline.
Most readers, myself included, love the Chet and Bernie series because of Chet. He provides insight that only a dog could have with his super hearing and sense of smell. He has plenty of lol moments when he often misunderstands what is happening or certain situations He is always a hero and a truly lovable dog. As someone who has a large dog, I can relate to Chet on several levels.
In these times of unrest and difficult situations, Chet & Bernie always take me away from everyday life and make me smile.

[Jann Howell · Rating 5 out of 5]

Why haven't I heard of Spencer Quinn before? I've gotta go buy ALL his books!

This is a murder mystery comedy. Bernie and Chet the perfect dog team up to solve mysteries. The entire book is told from Chet's point of view and I have no earthly idea how Quinn has mastered dog talk, but maybe Quinn is part dog.

This story deals with a stolen cat (Miss Kitty) who is obviously quite famous. There are many colloquialisms that come up in the story. Example - one of the witnesses was being silent and Bernie accused him with - Cat got your tongue? to which Chet shuddered! Another non-colloquialism - there was water dripping below the sink and Chet knew exactly how to handle it. Bernie has done this before. He gets pliers, goes under the sink, and then calls a plumber.

The storyline itself is rather twisted and complex but Quinn pulls all of this together at the close of the book.

I only had 72 hours to read the book, but I would like to read it the first time to follow the story. Then I would read it again for Chet's hilarious comments. Ah - I'll have to do this with his other books so I'll have to cut this review short to get to Barnes and Noble.

Thank you to NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book.

[Hope Stewart · Rating 4 out of 5]

Cat on a Hot Tin Woof by Spencer Quinn felt like being joyfully tackled by an old friend I hadn’t seen in a while. I’ve missed a few books in the series, but Chet did not care in the slightest. One page in and I was right back in his world, where smells are important, food is VERY important, and the mystery is… well… important too, probably.

The plot is engaging and twisty enough to keep things moving, but let’s be honest, I’m here for Chet. His commentary, priorities, and occasional complete misunderstanding of what’s going on remain the true star of the show. Danger? Sure. Clues? Maybe. But is there a snack involved and who is a good boy? These are the real questions.

What I loved most is how easy it was to slip back into the series. There’s no homework required. You don’t need a flowchart or a recap. You just follow Chet, trust Bernie, and enjoy the ride. It’s comforting without being boring and funny without trying too hard.

Overall, Cat on a Hot Tin Woof is a delightful return to a series that knows exactly what it is and leans into it with enthusiasm and a wagging tail. Four stars for a mystery that made me laugh, kept me entertained, and reminded me why Chet is always the best detective in the room, even if he’s occasionally distracted by squirrels.

[Deborah · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was a fun, light hearted book that happened to have murder and kidnapping in the plot, but that is because the protagonists are detectives. the Little Detective Agency consists of Chet, a dog, and his sidekick Bernie Little.

Bernie and Chet are hired to find internet sensation Miss Kitty, a cat. During the investigation two people are found dead, and they are related to the kidnapping of Miss Kitty. It takes a while for Chet to get on the scent, but in the end, the good guys win, and Miss Kitty ends up back on her purple and gold pillow in front of the camera with Bitty, her human costar.

I have to admit, it took me a while to get into the story. It is told from the perspective of the dog, When his discourse moved the story forward, it was fine, but there was a lot of dog ramblings interjected, too much so for me. The only way I got through the book was by skipping the Chet ramblings. Cute, but not my thing. This is installment 16 of a series and I have not read the previous books, and I do not think I will go back and read the others.

Thanks to Minotaur Books and NetGalley for the ARC of this book to read and review.

[Jason Lavoie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you NetGalley, St. Martin’s Press and Minotaur Books for the Advanced Reader’s Copy of Cat on a Hot Tin Woof by Spencer Quinn. This Chet & Bernie Mystery is to be published on April 14, 2026.

This is the second novel this year that I’ve read that has been narrated by a dog. Chet, the dog, and his partner, Bernie Little, are on the case to find a kidnapped cat, Miss Kitty, who is a social media star. The challenges that Chet and Bernie face include a homicide potentially witnessed by a mud-frolicking pig and a whole cast of quirky characters. Some help the investigation. Others don’t.

This is the sixteenth book in the series and the first one that I have read. Being unaware that there were others in the series did not hinder the reading experience. It completely read as a stand alone. It was an interesting plot and was well written. It was at times quirky but that should be expected considering it was narrated by a dog.

[Sally Parente · Rating 4 out of 5]

📖 ARC Review: Cat on a Hot Tin Woof by Spencer Quinn

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

I’ve loved this series since book one, and book sixteen does not disappoint! I mean, who doesn’t love a good mystery—especially one told through the eyes (and nose!) of a dog? 🐾

Chet’s narration is as witty and loyal as ever, and Bernie remains the perfect partner-in-crime-solving. This installment balances humor, heart, and a solid mystery that kept me guessing. Even after sixteen books, the series still feels fresh and full of life.

If you love clever mysteries with a unique twist, or you’ve been following Chet & Bernie from the start, this one’s a must-read.

Thank you to NetGalley and St. Martin's Press | Minotaur Books for the digital ARC. This is my honest review of an unedited copy—all opinions are my own.

[Suzanne · Rating 4 out of 5]

(Pre-publication download from Netgalley.com)

I enjoyed this latest (#16 in the series) as much as I liked the first couple of books. I'd kind of lost track of the series after Scents and Sensibility (#8), which I didn't think was as good as earlier ones, and hadn't read any since that one. However, this one still works even without knowing all the details of Detective Bernie Little's life in the intervening books. Chet, the canine member of the Little Detective Agency, doesn't always remember that kind of thing either. But the two of them are still solving cases as well as ever; this one starts with a missing cat and gets a lot more complicated. The story being told from Chet's viewpoint makes this series stand out and that's what made me come back to it.

[Ina · Rating 5 out of 5]

Chet and Bernie Little are the detectives of the Little Detective Agency. Bernie is handsome and smart and Chet is a great side kick and the narrator. What makes this special is that Chet is a big (100+ Pounder) dog. His view of the world very canine, and it his take on the world and his understanding of the case is always filled with fun and laughter. This time, the Little Dective Agency, is hired by a Mother/daughter team to find a missing cat. A missing cat who is an internet star. Chet has a rather checkered history with cats, but the two detectives solve the case - and a lot more. If you have read the books in this series, this is a fabulous addition. The plots get better with each book and reading each new book feels like dropping in on an old friend..

[SuzieQuzie7973 · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you to NetGalley, St. Martin's Press and Spencer Quinn for sharing this ARC with me, in exchange for my honest opinions and thoughts.

Cat On a Hot Tin Woof is hilarious, cute and cozy-comfy. This is the 16th book in a series, and Spencer Quinn hasn't lost a thing. I was hooked from start to finish. Chet being the narrator is just phenomenal. Hearing the story in his perspective had me at times doing a double-take because I would forget he's not human. The character development and world building is top tier. The Chet and Bernie Mystery just keeps getting better and better.

I wholeheartedly recommend that y'all get y'alls hands on this book on April 24, 2026. Trust me on this, y'all won't regret it.

[Valleri · Rating 3 out of 5]

Cat on a Hot Tin Woof is the 16th installment of the Chet and Bernie mystery series. It features a dog named Chet as the narrator, and his human partner, Bernie Little, is a private investigator.

Chet is not thrilled when Bernie accepts a case regarding a missing internet sensation cat named Miss Kitty, and the star witness's name is Señor Piggy. The case ultimately exposes the sometimes dark side of internet fame...

As someone who is nutso about dogs, I'm not sure why I don't love this series as much as some of my friends do. It's a cute and light series!

Thank you, #Minotaur Books, for providing this book for consideration and review via #NetGalley. All opinions are my own. Cat on a Hot Tin Woof has an expected publication date of April 28, 2026.

[Anita Norton · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’m a huge reader and a huge dog lover, so how have I waited this long to read a Chet and Bernie book? Chet and Bernie are private investigators, with Bernie being the human partner. Their current case involves being hired to find a missing “person” - actually Miss Kitty, a cat who has become famous online. The case quickly becomes more complicated when people start coming up dead. Do they find Miss Kitty? Read it and see!
The books in this series are even more enjoyable because they are told entirely from the view point of Chet the dog. This adds a lot of humor mixed in with the suspense. I recommend this book- and I will be reading more in the series!
My thanks to Net Galley and the publisher for an advanced readers copy of this book.

[Elizabeth Desole · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you for the ARC from NetGalley. I always enjoy a Bernie and Chet mystery. They are just exactly what I need sometimes. Like your favorite junk food snack. Easy and satisfying. Bernie is a somewhat successful private eye and Chet is his large and devoted dog. What I really enjoy is that the author never breaks character. The books are told from the perspective of the dog. If he doesn't see or hear it, neither do you. And he's not some hyper-intelligent dog. He's fully aa dog who gets distracted (often and frequently by smells and treats). The things he figures out (usually smell related) can't be magically communicated to Bernie. Yet they muddle their way towards a solution. Fun, light yet satisfying

[Kathy · Rating 3 out of 5]

Seeing as this is the sixteenth book in the series, and I am still reading and enjoying them, you already know that I thought this was a good book. In this book, it starts with Chet and Bernie taking on a case...the case of a missing cat. Anyone who has read even one book in this series knows exactly what Chet's experience with cats is, and how he feels about them. Nevertheless, if Bernie says it's ok, then it's ok. As a pet owner myself (one dog, 2 cats) I adore the way Chet narrates the story with his thoughts about what is going on. I can only hope that my own dog (and cats!) see me the way that Chet sees Bernie. Thanks, Netgalley and St. Martin's Press for the chance to read it.

[Daria · Rating 4 out of 5]

Chet the Dog tells this story from his unique perspective, and Bernie (his human) adds the heart and brains to their crime-fighting duo. Chet's thoughts are always delightful, and watching Bernie trying to figure out the world of online influencers - a world he clearly has no interest in - is very funny. Several mysteries crop up as Chet and Bernie try to figure out who stole a famous cat, and the author does a good job of bringing together several plot strands by the end. Thank you to NetGalley and Minotaur for the eARC.

[Marissa · Rating 4 out of 5]

Kindle Copy for Review from NetGalley, St. Martin's Press and Minotaur Books.

I received a free, advance copy of this book and this is my unbiased and voluntary review.

Chef and his human partner find themselves on a missing cat case. The missing Ct is owned by a teenage grl and her struggling mom. Soon the cat becomes infamous on social media and sponsors soon get involved in the return of the cat. Things will get messy when all is not as it seems. It is one mystery you will not want to miss.

[Melody · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the first book in this series I have read and the only book with a dog narrating the story. This dog seems more realistic than other books with dog characters. He and his owner are a private detective team and have apparently solved major cases in the past. The mission is to find a missing cat that is a social budding media star. Not the dog’s favourite sort of case but he has a nose and will use it. The mystery is good and rather convoluted with a few red herrings.
I look forward to reading other books in the series.

[Bill Haddad · Rating 4 out of 5]

Spencer Quinn has come through for us again, with another fast-paced and hilarious Chet and Bernie adventure. Even though Chet seemed a little more flighty than I remember, using the dog as the ultimate Watson-style narrator is still just stunning. And we the readers benefit from all of Chet's astute observations, both of what's happening around him and what people are saying. Even if he doesn't understand a lot of the words.

I was always more of a cat person until I met Chet, and he has helped me appreciate the doggy perspective on life. Tip top!

[Jessica Woods · Rating 4 out of 5]

Cat on a Hot Tin Woof is part of a long running series but seeing as I haven't read the majority of the series I found the story easy enough to just pick up and read from here. Chet the dog and his owner and private eye Bernie get hired to find a missing cat in this light hearted and easy to read mystery. Told from Chet's point of view the story has an interesting perspective and is entertainingly believable as a dog's perspective. The whodunnit might not be shocking but the story is an entertaining read. My voluntary and unbiased review is based upon a review copy from NetGalley.

[Joe Meyers · Rating 5 out of 5]

Funny and cleverly plotted installment in the long running series about a private eye and his amazing dog sidekick Chet. Much of the humor in the series stems from the fact that the stories are narrated by Chet whose love for his master is unconditional. The case here involves the disappearance of a cat who is hugely popular on a social media app. The money earned by the girl who owns the cat is threatened by what appears to be a catnapping. Such a clever set-up and the result is a cozy mystery with a slight edge. (I received an electronic galley from NetGalley.)

[Melissa · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was an ARC from NetGalley.

The "Little Detective Agency"...Bernie and Chet...are on the case of a cat influencer's disappearance. The case is resolved at the end, along with some other mysteries which arose during the case they were initially investigating. This is a cute series with Chet the dog narrating. I read most of the other books in the series. This can be read as a stand-alone, as well. I definitely recommend this book and series.

[Suzan · Rating 4 out of 5]

I forgot how much I enjoy this series. It's been a while since I read this series, but I do enjoy it so much. I love this from Chet the dogs point of view. It is so unique and entertaining. The missing cat case is just the start of this great mystery. It evolves into an amazing story. I need to go back and finish out this series. I have read no two books in a row, so these work well as a standalone book too.
Thank you to NetGalley, St. Martin’s Press, and Minotaur Books for the ARC.

[RavenReads · Rating 4 out of 5]

Too cute! I was not familiar with this series, but I don’t feel like jumping in on book 16 was to any detriment to me as a reader. How freaking adorable this was! I love animals and I love cozy mysteries and this delivered in spades. I loved that the dog was our narrator, which made the distracted moments and adorable banter even cuter!

Thank you to NetGalley, St. Martin's Press and Spencer Quinn for sharing this ARC with. All opinions are my own.

[Holly Barker · Rating 4 out of 5]

In the latest Chet and Bernie novel, the Little Detective Agency has been retained to find a missing influencer cat. Chet is not thrilled that a cat is involved! The case takes them around the Valley and of course someone ends up dead, and there’s even a pig involved! As usual, it’s a fun read with some peril and lots of great doggie moments.