Top author Dennis Lehane has offered to name a character in his new book after the person who finds his lost dog.

The writer behind the books that inspired hit films Shutter Island, Gone Baby Gone and Mystic River has asked fans for help in tracking down his beloved beagle Tessa - and the reward offered is priceless.

The literary giant will rename a character in his latest book after the man or woman who brings the escaped pooch home.

Reports suggest Tessa was last seen on Christmas Eve (24Dec12) at a gas station in Allston, Massachusetts.