Dogged Pursuit

Andy Carpenter #31

by David Rosenfelt

In Dogged Pursuit, David Rosenfelt takes readers back to the start of this beloved series as Andy Carpenter begins his career as a defense attorney in Paterson, New Jersey.

Andy Carpenter has spent the three years since graduating law school working as a prosecutor in Paterson. But having seen how the system never looks out for the little guy, he leaves to start his own practice as a defense attorney. His office might be a little bit of a dump, but he's excited to make a change.

Andy goes to the shelter to adopt a dog, where he meets his beloved golden retriever, Tara, for the first time and feels an immediate connection. The shelter is crowded and Tara's been sharing space with a dog named Sunny; Andy hates to break them up and so asks to take Sunny, too, but since there's a pending criminal case involving the owner, he'll need to get written permission for temporary possession.

Andy discovers that Sunny's owner, Frank Tierney, has been arrested for the murder of his ex-boss. But he takes an immediate liking to Frank and his clear dedication to his dog, and ends up with his first case along with the two dogs.

This prequel to the long-running and perennially popular Andy Carpenter mysteries is a gift for fans and a terrific entry-point for newcomers.

Genres: Mystery, Humor, Audiobook, Fiction, Cozy Mystery, Dogs, Thriller

280 pages, Kindle Edition

Published July 1, 2025

About the author

I am a novelist with 27 dogs.

I have gotten to this dubious position with absolutely no planning, and at no stage in my life could I have predicted it. But here I am.

My childhood was relentlessly normal. The middle of three brothers, loving parents, a middle-class home in Paterson, New Jersey. We played sports, studied sporadically. laughed around the dinner table, and generally had a good time. By comparison, "Ozzie and Harriet's" clan seemed bizarre.

I graduated NYU, then decided to go into the movie business. I was stunningly brilliant at a job interview with my uncle, who was President of United Artists, and was immediately hired. It set me off on a climb up the executive ladder, culminating in my becoming President of Marketing for Tri-Star Pictures. The movie landscape is filled with the movies I buried; for every "Rambo", "The Natural" and "Rocky", there are countless disasters.

I did manage to find the time to marry and have two children, both of whom are doing very well, and fortunately neither have inherited my eccentricities.

A number of years ago, I left the movie marketing business, to the sustained applause of hundreds of disgruntled producers and directors. I decided to try my hand at writing. I wrote and sold a bunch of feature films, none of which ever came close to being actually filmed, and then a bunch of TV movies, some of which actually made it to the small screen. It's safe to say that their impact on the American cultural scene has been minimal.

About fourteen years ago, my wife and I started the Tara Foundation, named in honor of the greatest Golden Retriever the world has ever known. We rescued almost 4,000 dogs, many of them Goldens, and found them loving homes. Our own home quickly became a sanctuary for those dogs that we rescued that were too old or sickly to be wanted by others. They surround me as I write this. It's total lunacy, but it works, and they are a happy, safe group.

http://us.macmillan.com/author/davidr...

Reviews

[Karen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Who ever thought one of my favorite series would get a prequel?

For those familiar with Andy Carpenter, we now know him as a wealthy defense attorney who only takes cases he wants. Because he would rather be enjoying his time with his wife and dogs; and, supporting the Tara Foundation, a shelter he established, for dogs needing a forever home.

In this prequel, Rosenfelt takes us to when Carpenter began as a defense attorney, and first met and adopted, Tara, his long-time golden retriever, from a local shelter.

“Today is a big day for me…I’m going to get a dog.”

“I have never met this dog but I’ve known her my entire life. That’s how instant and powerful the connection is.”

For anyone who loves having a pet, that moment of meeting makes all the difference, doesn’t it? 🐾

Rosenfelt also does a credible job of introducing readers to all the various characters we have come to know and love over the previous 30 books. Especially as Carpenter may be meeting them for the first time, or giving us insights into how they all ended up in Andy’s universe.

For those who haven’t yet decided to take this cozy series on, this might be a good first book to read, to learn about Carpenter’s humble beginnings. Will it be able to give readers a new appreciation of Carpenter?

And, as Carpenter’s first murder case as a defense attorney, how will this case impact his personal life, and change the trajectory of his career?

Rosenfelt continues to show off Carpenter’s snarky humor, create a bit of tension when needed, and develop a sense of camaraderie as it relates to the ‘regular’ characters. And with short chapters, the story is quick-paced, page-turning with intriguing plot twists. Along with some courtroom drama, this prequel lends itself to making this book an engrossing and compelling read.

And, of course, there is always the love of dogs. Fully embraced and shown throughout. 🦮 Speaking of which, mine are nudging me now. Is it time for our walk?

[Sandra Hoover · Rating 4 out of 5]

Author David Rosenfelt sweeps fans of the Andy Carpenter series away with a nostalgic journey back in time to the beginning of it all in DOGGED PURSUIT. Readers are introduced to a young Andy along with a few of the main characters that play significant roles in the many books that follow. Perhaps more importantly, we get our first look at Andy's beloved dog, Tara, and learn about the events that brought him to adopt her from the shelter. This prequel is the perfect entry point for first time readers and an absolute must read for longtime fans of the series.

Andy Carpenter is feeling a bit untethered as he and his wife Nicole are finagling their way through some marital issues that have her living at her parents' house while he roams around the empty rooms of their home. Andy has turned down yet another offer from Nicole's dad to come work for his firm - a move that would secure their financial future but contribute nothing to Andy's mental health and personal satisfaction. Since finishing law school, Andy has spent three years working as a prosecutor but has now chosen to switch sides by becoming a defense attorney to serve as a voice for the accused. All he needs now is a client. In Nicole's absence, Andy decides a small dog will make the perfect companion, so he heads to the local animal shelter where it's love at first sight when he spies Tara, a golden retriever, who is most definitely not a small dog. As it turns out, Tara has a little sidekick, Sonny, a beagle who belongs to a man arrested for a triple murder. Not having the heart to split the pair up, Andy seeks permission from the incarcerated man to take Sonny home and in doing so winds up taking the man on as his first client as a defense attorney. Frank Tierney stands accused of planting explosives under the car of his former boss thereby blowing him and his two passengers to smithereens. Tierney swears he's innocent, but the prosecutor’s unsurmountable evidence says otherwise. Andy needs to sift through an array of red herrings to unmask a murderer to prove his client's innocence. Things are about to get complicated...and dangerous for Andy and those he cares about.

DOGGED PURSUIT is a delight to read! Fans of the series are transported back to the beginning of it all to witness Andy’s first connection with several series' favorites like Laurie, the ex-cop investigator, Sam, the computer whiz, along with an "almost meet" with the enforcer, Marcus. And, of course, we meet a young, enthusiastic, gung-ho Andy as he hones his courtroom skills utilizing what later becomes his signature sharp wit and charming personality to irritate the judge, win over the jury and successfully wrap up his first case as a budding defense attorney . . . all while navigating his turbulent personal life with all the bumps and bruises of a young, floundering marriage. If this is your first Andy Carpenter book, this book serves as the meet-cute foundation for the rest of the series, and I promise you'll be hooked! If you're a longtime fan, what a gift!

Like all the rest of the books that follow, DOGGED PURSUIT is a highly entertaining, humorous whodunit rendered via complex characters, adorable dog scenes and an intriguing murder mystery. While it would be easy to label it as another lighthearted mystery, Rosenfelt's expertise at weaving weighty themes throughout a convoluted, twisted plotline while challenging readers and Andy to figure it out is evident. The end result is a page burner, often funny, always heart touching story that's impossible to put down. Narrator Grover Gardner delivers a star performance on audio. In my eyes, he IS Andy Carpenter! Highly recommended to fans of the series, first time readers and any reader who enjoys a good mystery with a healthy dose of laughter.
Special thanks to Minotaur Books & MacMillan Audio for complimentary arcs of this title for review. Opinions expressed are entirely my own. This book is scheduled for release on July 1, 2025. My full review first published in Mystery & Suspense Magazine and is now available on my blog Cross My Heart Reviews.

[Kristie · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a fun prequel to the Andy Carpenter series and it's a great place for people who are new to the series to jump in. It was enjoyable to meet Andy's dad and have other recurring characters introduced for the first time. I now understand where Andy gets his snark. lol It was also fun to get to know Andy as he became a defense attorney and see his interest in it before he inherited all his money.

I had the audio of this one, which is narrated by Grover Gardner. I always love his narration of this series. He is perfect and I highly recommend the audios.

As always, I look forward to the next installment.

Thank you to NetGalley and Macmillan Audio for providing me with a complimentary electronic copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

[Barbara · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 stars

Although this is the 31st book in the Andy Carpenter series, it's a prequel in which we first meet criminal defense attorney Andy Carpenter, his beloved dog Tara, and various members of Andy's team.

Andy's father Nelson Carpenter was a respected district attorney in Paterson, New Jersey, and after law school, Andy followed in Nelson's footsteps and became a prosecutor. Three years later, Andy switched sides to become a defense lawyer, and in this story, Andy tries his first case.



*****

At the beginning of the story, Andy is living in Franklin Lakes, New Jersey, and is separated from his wealthy socialite wife Nicole Gant - who wants Andy to become a corporate attorney in her father's law firm.

Andy decides to adopt a dog from the local animal shelter, and when Andy spies a beautiful golden retriever named Tara, he knows she's the one.



It so happens Tara is friends with a beagle called Sonny, and Andy says he'll take Sonny as well.



There's a problem though. Sonny belongs to a man called Ryan Tierney, who's about to be tried for a triple murder. Legally, Sonny has to stay in the shelter until Tierney's case is adjudicated. if Ryan gets off, the dog goes back to him; if not, the county takes possession.

There's a loophole though: Tierney can sign a letter giving Andy permission to take Sonny. So Andy makes arrangements to visit Ryan in jail, and when the first words out of the Ryan's mouth are "Is Sonny okay?" Andy knows he's met a fellow dog lover. Bibbidi-bobbidi-boo....Andy takes Tierney's case.



This is Ryan Tierney's story: Ryan was a dispatcher for a transportation company called Pearson Trucking, and Ryan's boss was Stephen Pearson. Recently, Stephen fired Ryan for bogus reasons, and Ryan made angry threats.



Shortly afterward, Pearson Trucking held its semi-annual company party at Morelli's restaurant, a fun celebration with plenty of food and drink. As usual, Stephen Pearson remained throughout the festivities, to drive home folks who'd had a few too many drinks.



Following the party, Stephen and two employees got into his car, then died in an explosion when Stephen turned on his ignition - like what happened to Michael Corleone's first wife in The Godfather.



Ryan Tierney was arrested for the triple homicide, and the prosecution's case is very strong: On the night of Pearson Trucking's party at Morelli's, Tierney's car was parked at a fire hydrant near the restaurant and got a ticket; Tierney is an explosives expert; and Tierney made threats when he was fired.

No worries for Andy....he gets ready to defend Ryan. Andy has a bare-bones law office above a fruit vendor; he hires two investigators - a former cop named Laurie Collins and a tough guy named Marcus Clark....





.....and Andy's accountant Sam, who's a computer hacker extraordinaire, is on hand to help with the case.



Andy also gets to pick the brain of Homicide Captain Pete Stanton - as long as Andy pays for Pete's food and beer at Charlie's Sports Bar.



As Andy delves into the case, he learns that a loan shark named Jason Shore invested $2 million in Pearson Trucking a couple of years ago, and apparently hasn't been repaid.



This gets Andy thinking about nefarious mischief at the trucking company, and when Andy investigates the matter, his life is threatened!! Thus Andy intuits a conspiracy at Pearson Trucking, and comes to believe Ryan was framed. [Truth be told, this is David Rosenfelt's go-to formula for the series. 😉]

Andy and his team uncover information to be used in Tierney's defense, and the trial contains the usual sparring between Andy and the prosecutor, Karen Vincent. This verbal fencing in the courtroom is always a highlight of the books.



Of course Andy eventually figures out what happened at Pearson Trucking, why the homicides occurred, and whodunit.

The cases in Rosenfelt's stories are always complex and interesting, but the REAL pleasure of these novels lies in Andy's love for his dog(s); the interactions among the characters; and Andy's humorous observations, snarky quips, and sarcastic remarks.

For example:

✿ When Andy first brings Tara home, he worries the dog might chew things up, and remarks: "Hopefully she didn't get into Nicole's closet. Nicole has shoes and bags so valuable that she could trade a few for something with bucket seats. But the truth is that an army of golden retrievers would take a month to eat all of Nicole's shoes."



✿ Andy is musing about Tierney's parking ticket on the night of the car bombing, and notes, "If it's true that the driver was my client, and he illegally parked the car while planting a bomb nearby, then I am unlikely to find a Rhodes Scholarship in his background."



✿ When investigator Laurie Collins comes to Andy's spartan office for the first time, Andy realizes he has nothing to offer visitors in the way of food or drink. So Andy asks Laurie, "Are you hungry? I have all kinds of fruit, downstairs at the fruit stand. Maybe you'd like a cantaloupe?"



The book has some unexpected twists and a satisfying ending. I'd recommend this humorous mystery to fans of the Andy Carpenter series, and - for new readers - this is a good place to start.

I had the digital book as well as the audiobook, narrated by Grover Gardner, who does a great job as usual.

Thanks to Netgalley, David Rosenfelt, and Minotaur Books/MacMillan Audio for copies of the book.

You can follow my reviews at https://reviewsbybarbsaffer.blogspot.com

[Shannon M (Canada) · Rating 5 out of 5]

The first book in the Andy Carpenter series by David Rosenfelt was published in 2002, but I didn't discover any of them until a couple of years ago. Since then, I've been reading the books out of sequence, my choices depending on what is available when I am in the mood for an enjoyable reading experience, one that doesn't tax my brain too hard but doesn't bore or irritate me either.

The primary allure of all the Andy Carpenter novels are Andy's sarcastic musings about everyday things, many of which seem to hit home with me—things that I, too, find irritating. But Andy articulates them much better than I ever could. These musings are embedded in crime plots that I find equally amusing and puzzling—although some are less perplexing than others. There is inevitably an investigation into nefarious acts and a courtroom drama, because Andy is a defence lawyer. The investigation is generally spearheaded by Laurie, who in the early books was Andy's chief investigator (and girlfriend). In the later books, Laurie is his wife, but still his commanding investigator.

The settings of this set of novels always includes dogs. They play a minor role in the plot but a major role in Andy's life. Tara, a golden retriever, is Andy's main dog companion; her presence soothes him while he is contemplating about the inequities of the case he is working on, as well as the inequities of life.

DOGGED PURSUIT is a prequel. It describes a time before the first book in the series, "Open and Shut", a time when Andy is still married to Nicole, although his marriage is floundering. In "Open and Shut" Nicole was obnoxious, and in this prequel, she is equally obnoxious; why Andy married her is still a mystery to me.

However, the important events in Andy's life that occur in DOGGED PURSUIT are that he meets and hires Laurie, and he adopts Tara from an animal shelter.

It is while adopting Tara that he gets involved in a murder investigation. In the shelter, Tara bonded with Sunny, whose owner, Ryan Tierney, a former trucking company employee, has been arrested for killing three of his former coworkers. Ryan becomes Andy's first defence client.

In DOGGED PURSUIT, Sam Willis, accountant and computer hacker extraordinaire, plays a major role. Sam did not appear in "Open and Shut", but became a part of Andy's investigative team in the second book in the series ("First Degree"), and it is never mentioned in "First Degree" that Sam had already conducted a major investigation for Andy. Similarly, Marcus Clark appears briefly in DOGGED PURSUIT, although Andy didn't actually meet him until the second book in the series. These appearances in this prequel disturbed me a bit, because they muddled the series timeline.

On the other hand, I enjoyed seeing a bit more of Andy's father, who died early in "Open and Shut", and has not been mentioned much in any of the books I have thus far read (other than the fact that he gave Andy an unexpected inheritance when he died).

These books are enjoyable even when read completely out of sequence, as I have been doing, so DOGGED PURSUIT is suitable for first-time readers to the series, as well as long-term ones. 4.5 stars upped to 5.

Thanks to St. Martin's Press for providing an electronic copy of this book via NetGalley. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinions.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
My reviews for books in this series that I have read:
Open and Shut (Andy Carpenter, #1)
Dead Center (Andy Carpenter, #5)
Leader of the Pack (Andy Carpenter, #10)
Hounded (Andy Carpenter, #12)
Dachshund Through the Snow (Andy Carpenter, #20)
Dog Eat Dog (Andy Carpenter, #23)
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

[Louise · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love this Andy Carpenter series - it combines humor with good mysteries and not the cozy kind. Dogged Pursuit is basically a prequel to the series (31 books now!) so it’s a terrific way for new readers to try out this series. We get to see how Andy started his law practice as a defense attorney, how he met his future wife, Laurie, and others like his accountant/computer hacking genius, Sam. If you’re looking for a wise-cracking New Jersey guy who loves dogs to be the main character of a series, look no further.

The story in Dogged Pursuit involves Andy defending someone who proclaims his innocence in a car-bombing that killed three people from his former place of employment. The odds are against Andy being successful in getting him off, but he tries his best and uncovers what really happened.

Although I could read these books, my personal preference is to go the audiobook route. Grover Gardner IS Andy Carpenter! I can’t imagine anyone else narrating these books.

Thank you to Macmillan Audio and NetGalley for the opportunity to listen to an advance copy of this audiobook and to Minotaur Books and NetGalley for the opportunity to read an advance reader copy of this book. All opinions are my own.

[Karen J · Rating 4 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

I have absolutely loved every one of David Rosenfelt’s series “Andy Carpenter” narrated by Grover Gardner.

[Bob · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Very Enjoyable Prequel To The Very Enjoyable Andy Carpenter Series!

Dogged Pursuit is the prequel to the always enjoyable Andy Carpenter series in which Andy adopts his very lovable dog, Tara, and in which he accepts his first case as a defense lawyer (after working for years as a prosecutor).

Having read the first eleven books in this series in which I’ve been a big fan, I for whatever reason haven’t read any of the many other books in this series. So, when given the opportunity by the publisher and NetGalley to preview and review Dogged Pursuit, I snapped it up (pardon the pun).

I've said it before and I'm saying it again now after finishing Dogged Pursuit that no matter what limitations David Rosenfelt might possibly have in his life, his ability to tell a consistently good, suspenseful and humorous story isn't one of them. With Dogged Pursuit, Rosenfelt continues to be one of the best among today's mystery writers. This stems from his ability to provide interesting plots, credible courtroom drama, lots of humor and well-developed major and minor characters. In particular, wise-cracking Andy Carpenter, is a character that stays in your mind even after you finish the book.

I’m back to being a loyal fan of this series and look forward to going back to hanging out with Carpenter and his "crew' in his legal adventures that I missed. Plus, his dog, Tara, is one I wish I had.

4 1/2 stars rounded up to 5 stars

#Dogged Pursuit # NetGalley

[Tina Loves To Read · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a Legal Cozy Mystery/Legal Mystery, and this is the thirty-first book (but it is really a prequel to this whole series) in the Andy Carpenter series. I have read the first thirty books in this series before picking up this book. I read this book by listening to the audiobook, and I loved the audiobook. I did not read anything about this book before picking because I have been reading this series for years and love it, so I was a little confused about the book at first. I did not put together at first we went back in time to before the first book. I love we got how he first got Tara, and the mystery in this book was done well. I really enjoyed this book after I put together that the story in this book happened before the first book in this series. I received an ARC of this book. This review is my own honest opinion about the book like all my reviews are.

[Robin Loves Reading · Rating 5 out of 5]

While Dogged Pursuit is the 31st book in the Andy Carpenter series, this engaging read takes the reader right back to the beginning, serving as the series prequel. Andy is three years out of law school and has gone from being a prosecutor to a defense attorney and starting his own practice.

However, Andy’s journey is far from easy, especially when he reluctantly takes on his first case. The case presents incriminating evidence, leaving Andy to question how he can find justice for his client, who is steadfastly claiming innocence despite the skepticism of others. Meanwhile, Andy’s marriage to Nicole is on rocky grounds.

It is this story that brings the introduction of the smart and sensitive Tara, a gorgeous golden retriever that Andy rescues from a shelter. Tara has a starring role in all of the books in this enjoyable series. In this book Andy hires Laurie, a former cop who is now his investigator. Fans of this series know the changed role she later plays in Andy’s life. Sam, hacker extraordinaire, is also introduced.

David Rosenfelt’s sharp wit shines through in providing Andy with perfectly crafted lines, often laced with humor. Grover Gardner’s deadpan delivery as the narrator further enhances the reading experience, creating a winning combination. Throughout the book, Andy remains dedicated to his client, striving to achieve justice despite the obstacles in his path. Dogged Pursuit is a true delight, offering readers an enjoyable and engaging journey from beginning to end.

Many thanks to Minotaur Books and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.

[Monnie · Rating 5 out of 5]

For at least a half-dozen years, I've bemoaned the fact that I found this wonderful series late in the game; I've read only the most recent six, and this is the 31st. More's the pity; but I'm also not one to go back and read dozens of books that came before the one with which I started. That doesn't mean, though, that I'm not interested in how it all began. Well, that itch has now been scratched. This installment basically is a prequel to the others - answering a ton of questions as well as being a doggone good book all on its own.

As it begins, former prosecuting attorney Andy Carpenter is nearing 30 years of age, newly married and, according to his retired highly regarded prosecutor father, heading for the dark side to start his own firm as a defense attorney in Paterson, New Jersey. Readers are introduced to Tara, Andy's lovable golden retriever (and, I assume, the force behind the dog rescue Tara Foundation that keeps Andy busy in his retirement years). We're also introduced to Laurie Collins, who serves as his bodyguard (but who followers of the series know comes to play a much different role in future books).

Tara the dog, in fact, is directly responsible for the beginning of this tale. When Andy goes to the shelter to look for a small-ish dog for himself, he finds her and loses his heart. But when he sees that Tara and her shelter companion, Sunny, seem inseparable, he can't resist taking them both home. Problem is, Sunny isn't up for grabs; his owner, Frank Tierney, is in jail, awaiting trial for the murder of his former boss. Unless Frank gives the go-ahead, Sunny must stay right where he is.

Not wanting that to happen to the poor pup - and a bit curious about Frank's situation - Andy visits him in jail (Frank, that is). One thing leads to another, and poof - Andy has taken Frank's case - and as he soon learns, a difficult case to win it will be. Frank meets all the requirements for conviction: he has means, motive and opportunity - some of which has been documented by the very capable prosecution. But for whatever reason - maybe Frank's penchant for dogs - Andy is pretty sure they're barking up the wrong tree and his client is innocent. Proving that, however, will be a challenge for his entire team, and ultimately put his own life in danger.

All of this, of course, is laid out for readers like me to enjoy right up to the end - and enjoy it I did. Many thanks once again to the publisher, via NetGalley, for the opportunity to get my eyes on a pre-release copy. Series lovers, heads up - this one's a don't-miss. And it seems to me to be a great beginning for those who want to start reading a wonderful, thoroughly entertaining series.

[Carol Farrington · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a refreshing change of pace for the Andy Carpenter series. I do enjoy the books but felt like the cases and solving of them was becoming repetitive and stale. This is a prequel to the series and answered some things I wondered about. I’m sure many people have wondered the same things, how did Tara come into Andy’s life, how did he become a defense lawyer, how did he meet Lori and how did Charlie’s become a tradition. All these and more in this book, oh ya plus a murder trial.

[Shereadbookblog · Rating 5 out of 5]

This, the 31st installment in the Andy Carpenter series is actually a prequel. For those familiar with the series, Andy has just switched from being a prosecutor to starting out as a defense attorney. It explains how he met Laurie and how he came to adopt Tara, his beloved golden retriever.

When Andy goes to a shelter to adopt a dog, he chooses Tara. But Tara is pen mate with a cute beagle who is there because his owner has been arrested for the car bombing murder of three people. The only way Andy can keep the pen buddies together is to get permission from the alleged killer, Frank Tierney. Somehow, as he gets that permission, he gets roped into defending Frank, his first murder case representing the defense. He takes on Laurie, a former police officer as investigator. As he delves into the life of the main target of the bombing, nefarious dealings are discovered and Andy’s life is in danger.

With a solid plot, colorful characterizations, twists, turns, courtroom drama and great humor, this is a very enjoyable, fast paced read. What a treat to learn more of the origin story of Andy Carpenter, his associates, and, of course, his dog, Tara. This book is a mystery, legal thriller, heart warming and comedic. What more could you ask?

I came late to this series, having been introduced to it only a few years ago by a fellow bookstagrammer. It is now one of my “must reads” whenever a new one is available. Every read is a delight. If unfamiliar with Andy Carpenter, this is a great time to start the series.

Thanks to #NetGalley and @StMartinsPress for the DRC.

[Pattyh · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you for the opportunity to preview Dogged Pursuit.
I love this series and this new edition is a departure from the typical series plot. This novel takes the reader back to the beginning of Andy Carpenters career as a defense attorney.
This is a fun book and Rosenfelt has a wonderful sense of humor that you cannot resist.
This novel introduces how Andy met Tara who is his faithful companion - a golden retriever.
A man is accused of murdering three people in a Car bombing and all the evidence against him is pretty solid. Andy agrees to take his case.
Andy who now is on his own as a defense attorney must now be a lawyer for a defendant who may be guilty but he takes his case.
There are many twists and turns in this story and a satisfying conclusion.
Another hit and a really good read. 5 star rating.
A

[Jo-Anne · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've read all the Andy Carpenter books, and every time I finish one, I can’t wait for the next. This one takes us back to Andy's first case as a defense attorney, defending an accused bomber. It introduces Tara, The Best Dog in the World, and shows how their incredible bond began. We also meet his father, his first wife, Laurie, Sam, and Pete Stanton. Naturally, there’s top-notch courtroom drama, and the "whodunit" element kept me guessing until the end.

David Rosenfelt's writing always hooks me. His humour has me laughing throughout the story, and I raced through the pages to uncover the verdict and the truth.

[Kelly_Hunsaker_reads ... · Rating 4 out of 5]

Dogged Pursuit is the 31st book in the Andy Carpenter series, and this time David Rosenfelt takes us back to the start of Andy's career as a defense attorney. He brings the reader into the origin stories of his relationship with Laurie and his beloved golden, Tara. Both stories gave the reader more insights into Andy, and how he comes to be the character we love so much.

As the story starts we find that Andy is in the tail end of an unhappy marriage to Nicole, who is away from their home more than she is there. Andy decides to adopt a dog, and finds Tara immediately. But Tara is attached to the beagle she shares a pen with. The beagle's person, Frank, is in jail, accused of a car bombing that killed three people. For Andy to keep the dogs together he must obtain permission to foster from Frank. He comes away with the dog and his first case as a defense attorney.

As the case gets started Andy hires Laurie, a former police officer, to investigate. Unsurprisingly, Andy quickly finds himself in trouble, with the unknown bad guy threatening his life. Laurie is the same smart, strong, calm woman that we find on the pages of previous books. She and Andy form a relationship based on respect and soon become friends. There is no overt flirtation, but the reader knows that will come later and finds themself hoping for Andy to disentangle himself from Nicole as soon as possible.

I enjoyed this installment of Andy's story very much -- one of my favorites of the series. Thank you @macmillan.audio for the #gifted audiobook! Once again narrated by Grover Gardner who has become Andy for me. I hope they never end this collaboration.

[Sheri · Rating 4 out of 5]

“Dogged Pursuit” by David Rosenfelt is another deliciously fun book in the Andy Carpenter Mystery series. This book takes us all the way back to the beginning and explains how the series came together. It explains how a young Andy chose to go from working in the Prosecutors office to opening his own practice as a defense attorney. I enjoyed learning more about his terrific Dad and how Andy built his team and the tight personal bonds that he has with each of them. Another total treat, was learning why he stoped at a local animal shelter to look for a “small” dog to adopt and winds up taking home the amazing and beloved Tara.
Like every book in this series, there is a complex and challenging mystery that is not easily solved with some great courtroom drama.
If you haven’t read a book in this series before this is a great place to start. I know you will come to love the funny and snarky Andy Carpenter character as much as I do.

Thank you NetGalley and St. Martin’s Press for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.

[Dawn · Rating 4 out of 5]

Loved reading Andy's story of how he came to work for the "dark side" and the day he and Tara became soul mates. And....imho....Laurie and Andy are much better suited than him and Nicole.

[Rachael Dockery · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5/5 - While this is a series prequel, it was written 30 books in, such that the sometimes stilted dialogue and rough character edges are both confusing and disappointing.

[Lillian LeBlanc · Rating 5 out of 5]

It takes a good author to write a compelling prequel...but it takes a great author to do so after writing 30 books in the series. Andy Carpenter is all about evidence, and Dogged Pursuit is irrefutable evidence that David Rosenfelt is a great writer!

Every time I read an Andy Carpenter story, I believe it's Rosenfelt's best...and Dogged Pursuit is no exception. We're introduced to young Andy, who is exactly as he should be - self-deprecating, yet self-assured. We meet Pete Stanton, Laurie Collins, Andy's dad Nelson, and Sam Willis. Not surprisingly, Marcus makes an appearance without appearing, and we hear about the amazing admin named Edna, who is said to be a workhorse. All of these characters flow so easily and seamlessly into a story that has long since been told. Each persona fits the character precisely as a seasoned Andy Carpenter reader imagined the earlier version.

Above all, we meet Tara, the golden retriever who has captured Andy's heart, and we at last fully understand how the bond between them came to be.

There is, of course, courtroom drama and it is first rate. Andy makes his debut as a defense attorney, leaving behind his role as a prosecutor molded in his dad's image. True to form, the "whodunit" aspect of the story was not easy to guess even though the evidence was presented in small bits throughout the story.

David Rosenfelt's writing always glues me to a story. I couldn't put this book down in an eagerness to discover the truth and learn the outcome for the accused.

If you've never read an Andy Carpenter mystery, Dogged Pursuit is the perfect place to start. But a warning - you'll be hooked, and there are 30 more books to tackle!

With gratitude to NetGalley and St. Martin's Press for the advance reader copy. This review is my unbiased personal opinion. #NetGalley #netgalleyarc #DoggedPursuit #AndyCarpenter

[ReadThisAndSteep · Rating 5 out of 5]

While the covers and titles of this series might suggest cozy mystery, these books are more cozy-adjacent. They are layered, suspenseful, and humorous legal mystery/thrillers featuring protagonist Andy Carpenter, who loves dogs and advocates for rescues, just like the author.

This is book 31 in the series, but it is a prequel, making it easy to jump in here as this works well as a stand-alone. It travels back in time to Andy's adoption of his beloved golden retriever Tara, which, surprisingly, leads to Andy's first case as a defense attorney. We also see how the series' recurring characters first meet Andy.

The books are well-written and solidly plotted, and this one is no different. I always enjoy seeing Andy set out to defend his clients, the ensuing courtroom drama, and how he and his whip-smart team investigate the crimes. The supporting cast is quirky and interesting, and this look at how it all began is fun.

Andy is a likable, intelligent, and witty protagonist. Much of the humor is self-effacing, and Andy's internal monologue and one-liners are often laugh-out-loud funny. Nowhere is this more apparent than in the narration by Grover Gardner. If there are matches made in heaven between characters and the narrators, this is one of them. I love Gardner's deadpan narration so much that this is one of the instances where my first preference is the audiobook. No offense to the print books. It's just that for me, Gardner IS Andy Carpenter, and he breathes so much life into these stories that even when I do read with my eyes, his is the voice of Andy that I hear in my head.

This is a super entertaining audiobook and a delightful summer mystery!

Thank you to Macmillan Audio and Minotaur Books for the gifted audiobook

[Toni Osborne · Rating 4 out of 5]

Andy Carpenter book #31

A Legal Mystery

I didn’t know at the time that this latest was a prequel to the Andy Carpenter Mystery series. Knowing this now, things become clear why I thought the story seemed to revert in time…why do this I stay puzzled.

The story in a few words:

Andy has left his job as a prosecutor to open his own defense practice. While visiting a shelter to adopt a dog he bonded with golden retriever named Tara. Not wanted to leave Sunny, a beagle and kennel-mate behind, Andy wanted to take him home also, but one hick: incarcerated Frank Tierney Sunny’s owner needed to give a written consent.

Thus began a new chapter in Andy’s life launching is new career by defending Frank Tierney and having two furry friends to share his home….

My thoughts:

Definitely a starting point for those not familiar with the series not only will you find it engaging but also filled with humour and suspense.

Bringing us back in time those who read other books will remember familiar names Sam, Pete, Laurie his wife, Edna and Marcus they all play an intricate part to make this mystery captivating. Andy’s client Frank accused of murdering his ex-boss and two ex-coworkers in a car bomb blast seemed a case hard to break but Andy uses all his wits and connections to win the game…..along the way we witness a realistic investigation to pin point the whodunit that will eventually bring us to a very well-done courtroom scene.

I stayed totally captivated with this story. Hard not to when a story is active, well written and has wonderful characters.

Well-said and well-done.

Thank you, St-Martin Press and Netgalley for this ARC

[kathy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I truly love this book series! I have read them from the very beginning. The author genuinely loves dogs. He actually rescues elderly dogs and takes care of them. I read one of his books about moving his family and all the dogs across the country from California to New York State. He had to have lots of volunteers to help move the dogs in various RV type vehicles. Lots of stops for potty breaks and eating, etc. it was quite an achievement and a really interesting story.

The series is fun because Tara will live forever. Tara is the golden retriever that he adopts when he is a young lawyer, newly married. He has decided to help people who have been wrongly convicted and has a very interesting case throughout the story. We get to see the seedy side of life a little bit. Various characters are introduced so we get to know where these characters have come from that have been in all the books up until now.

There’s a prologue talking about Tara and that she will not die. I love it! I don’t like to give away too much. I enjoyed the story. One thing about these Andy Carpenter books, there are a lot of court scenes if you like that kind of thing in your murder mysteries. It’s very interesting.

The cast of characters I adore. They each are unique, but they all work together to help to solve these cases. Tara of course has a vital role!

[Alice · Rating 4 out of 5]

Hurray for another Andy Carpenter book from David Rosenfelt. For me it is like having a visit with an old friend. I always love that Andy is not a tough guy at all. He’s self-deprecating and an honest coward. This book was especially fun because it was more of a prequel--taking us back in time to when Andy adopted Tara, how he opened his defense practice and his budding relationships with Sam, Pete and Lori with references to Edna and Marcus who have not yet officially entered his life. It is interesting because he is in his first marriage and his father is still alive--all things that aren't true in the rest of the series. Quick listen and enjoyable--especially for fans of this series.
Thank you to #Netgalley and #MacmillanAudio for the advanced audio copy of this book.

[Jaymie · Rating 4 out of 5]

[I received a free electronic review copy of this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.]

4.5 stars = I loved it! Would re-read.

I am such a series fan, I didn't even read what the story was when I requested this. So I didn't know it was going to be something of an Andy Carpenter origin story until I started reading. What a treat! The case is great with some fantastic surprises. I think this story will work better for readers who have at least read a few of the previous books so you can enjoy all the mentions of series regulars who are new to Andy in this book. Series fans should not miss this! (Language)

[Maria · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’ve read the first few in the series but haven’t been able to catch up quite yet. This was a nice look back at how everyone came together, including Tara, and I loved the time I spent with Andy and the gang, before they became the gang. The story is well-written and draws you in with the wit and humor. I laughed out loud several times and enjoyed the investigation and the court case at the end. Highly recommended! I usually recommend starting at the beginning but this one is a good starting point also.

I received a copy from #NetGalley, #StMartinsPress and #macmillanudio for an honest review,

[Jami · Rating 4 out of 5]

Of course I enjoyed this book, because it is an Andy Carpenter story! This was fun reading it as a prequel, knowing the inside jokes about the characters that developed over the series (i.e., Edna loving to work). However, this one felt a little off, because I am used to Andy not wanting to work and avoiding getting clients; it also seemed to have a little less of the dry wit and sarcasm than normal. I also wished that the ending had been Andy and his father going to the Yankee game that would ultimately change Andy's life and fortunes; I would have loved that ending! But still, it was a fun read.

[David Mc · Rating 4 out of 5]

Dogged Pursuit takes a step back in time to focus on a young Andy Carpenter, as he first sets out on his career as a defense attorney. Along with experiencing Andy’s first moments with Tara, his beloved Golden Retriever, it’s interesting to see the early stage of his relationship with Laurie, Sam, Edna, and Pete; all, of whom, continue on as well-established characters in the series. Accompanying Andy’s ever-present humor, the plot focuses on the “dogged” lawyer’s attempt to prove the innocence of his first client, a man accused of killing three people with a car bomb. All in all, it was an enjoyable and easy read.

[Donna Lewis · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love reading about Andy Carpenter and his delightful cohorts. This particular book is actually the book that begins Andy’s story—his switch from the prosecution side to the defense side of the law. It details his first murder case.

In addition, we are introduced to his spoiled wife Nicole, his new investigator Laurie Collins, and of course his new best friend Tara of the Golden Retriever persuasion.

Great characters, complex legal case, and a surprise ending. Great fun.

[Barbara Blindauer · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is Book 31 in the Andy Carpenter series. It actually should be book 31 in the series as it is Andy when he deciders tone a defense attorney and adopts Tara, his first dog. A quick read and it is interesting to see that the Andy in all the other books evolved into a good defense lawyer, his relationship with his father, and his first wife. We also meet Sam, Laurie, and Pete. A quick but good read.