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Dev Haskell Mystery #12
Dog Gone
Dog Gone is the TWELFTH mystery in the highly entertaining Dev Haskell Private Investigator series. Best in Show! Dog Gone is the Tale of Two Tail-Chasers Private investigator Dev Haskell’s new lady friend Maddie comes with strings the loosely-knotted tie of her short black silk kimono, and the leash to Morton, her handsome Golden Retriever. It’s always a sexy mystery when Dev’s on duty, but this caper takes a turn toward buddy adventure when Dev agrees to pet-sit. On their first evening stroll, Dev and Morton are charmed to meet the lovely Princess Anatasia, a purebred Standard Poodle angling for Best In Show title in the Blessington Kennel Club competition the Super Bowl of regional dog competition. But when the princess’ owner gets in a tussle with a local gambling heavyweight, Dev steps in to help, and the prim and proper world of show dog competition is revealed to be, above all, a competition, plus a big attraction for professional gambling! And these guys are playing for high stakes. It turns out somebody’s trying to keep Princess Anastasia from competing in the show. Dev gets hired to stop them and fortunately, he’s got backup this a love struck canine hero. As the suspense builds, a surprisingly touching bond develops between Dev and Morton, and why not? The pair have a lot in favored foods and beer brands, preferred places to stick their noses, and a seat-of-the-pants approach to dealing with bad guys. They got it right when they said, “Faricy’s characters inhabit a world just below the surface of polite society”. Fans of Mike Faricy’s humorous mysteries will welcome the usual constituency of oddball (and sleazeball) characters, who never fail to entertain. Also for fans of Robert B. Parker, Carl Hiaasen, and strong Minnesota men.
314 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 1, 2015
506 people are currently reading
767 people want to read
About the author
Mike Faricy
132 books240 followersI was born in St. Paul, Minnesota, I still live there as well as in Dublin, Ireland. I've been a soldier, freelance journalist, tended bar, sold designer cakes, owned a painting and decorating company along with a number of other schemes and scams. If that doesn't offend you I also play bagpipes with the Brian Boru Irish Pipe Band. All my books stand alone, read them in whatever order you wish. They are filled with the sort of oddballs we are all curious about, but wisely, prefer to keep at a distance. None of my characters will be saving the world from terrorism, international banking conspiracies or coups to take over the government. Rather, they inhabit a world just below the surface of polite society, characters with one foot on either side of the law. The circumstances they find themselves in are usually due to bad decisions, but bad decisions lead to interesting stories. They serve not so much as an example but as a warning to us all. Thanks for taking the time, happy reading.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 65 reviews
May 1, 2022
I enjoy Faricy's writing for his memorable characters, his scene descriptions, his plot devices, and his overall facility in telling a cohesive and compelling story. Not a lot of indie authors can do all this well. For this, he gets major kudos.
However, his books would be so much better if he employed an editor. Occasional typos you tend to expect from indie authors (I know I have a few of them despite several iterations of proofreading my own work), but Faricy's books REALLY need a lot of correction. Even a built-in spell-and-grammar checker that Word or Pages has would pick up a lot of these errors–e.g., identifying when a pair of juxtaposed words should be a compound word, the proper use of commas, apostrophes, and other punctuation, etc.
However, his books would be so much better if he employed an editor. Occasional typos you tend to expect from indie authors (I know I have a few of them despite several iterations of proofreading my own work), but Faricy's books REALLY need a lot of correction. Even a built-in spell-and-grammar checker that Word or Pages has would pick up a lot of these errors–e.g., identifying when a pair of juxtaposed words should be a compound word, the proper use of commas, apostrophes, and other punctuation, etc.
September 13, 2018
Fun and wryly funny, nice plot, likable main character. Enjoyed others in set, this one as well. Recommended for mystery fans who need a smile with their murder. 🙃
August 17, 2020
I think Dev Haskell met his soul mate in this book! Loved it x
June 17, 2017
Dog Gone (Dev Haskell - Private Investigator Book 12)
by Mike Faricy
Dev and his regular group -- Heidi, Detect. Manning, Louie, Lieutenant LaZelle, and, of course, Dev himself. This time out, Dev's current flame, Maddie, needs to fly home to help care for her ailing father, so Dev is dog-sitting her golden retriever, Morton. While on an evening walk, they come across an altercation between a man and a woman. Dev steps in and the man leaves. Dev is soon hired as security for the woman, Natasha Kominski, and her dog, Princess Anastasia (who Morton finds irresistable) as they finish training for an upcoming dog competition. Along the way, Morton gets plenty of action, ever every sense of that word, and he and Dev combine to make a pretty good security team. When the Princess is dog-napped at the competition, Morton saves the day, finding her among the many dogs at the event. He becomes the media darling. But Dev discovers the convoluted plot that accounts for all the dangerous and deadly events experienced along the way. When Maddie returns to claim Morton and wise him away with her to her home town, will that be the last we see of this dynamic duo?
As usual, Faricy mixes humor and pathos well. The novel has great pacing and flow. The editing and proofing are near perfect (the only thing I noted was that , at 125, Maddie instructs Dev to give Morton a daily heartworm pill. I've heard of 6-month pills, and every heart worm med I've ever used was monthly. I've never run across a daily pill.) Faricy's characters are well fleshed out, easy to either identify with/care about, or dislike intensely. I find this series easy and fun to read. While I haven't read every book in the series to this point, I haven't felt I missed anything from skipping the couple that I haven't read. That's a plus for me, as I like my novels, even those in a continuing series, to be stand-alone.
So, I'm on to the next in the series ("Scam Man"), just to see how Morton gets back into Dev's life (something that I know from reading the Amazon/Goodreads blurbs -- talk about your spoilers!).
by Mike Faricy
Dev and his regular group -- Heidi, Detect. Manning, Louie, Lieutenant LaZelle, and, of course, Dev himself. This time out, Dev's current flame, Maddie, needs to fly home to help care for her ailing father, so Dev is dog-sitting her golden retriever, Morton. While on an evening walk, they come across an altercation between a man and a woman. Dev steps in and the man leaves. Dev is soon hired as security for the woman, Natasha Kominski, and her dog, Princess Anastasia (who Morton finds irresistable) as they finish training for an upcoming dog competition. Along the way, Morton gets plenty of action, ever every sense of that word, and he and Dev combine to make a pretty good security team. When the Princess is dog-napped at the competition, Morton saves the day, finding her among the many dogs at the event. He becomes the media darling. But Dev discovers the convoluted plot that accounts for all the dangerous and deadly events experienced along the way. When Maddie returns to claim Morton and wise him away with her to her home town, will that be the last we see of this dynamic duo?
As usual, Faricy mixes humor and pathos well. The novel has great pacing and flow. The editing and proofing are near perfect (the only thing I noted was that , at 125, Maddie instructs Dev to give Morton a daily heartworm pill. I've heard of 6-month pills, and every heart worm med I've ever used was monthly. I've never run across a daily pill.) Faricy's characters are well fleshed out, easy to either identify with/care about, or dislike intensely. I find this series easy and fun to read. While I haven't read every book in the series to this point, I haven't felt I missed anything from skipping the couple that I haven't read. That's a plus for me, as I like my novels, even those in a continuing series, to be stand-alone.
So, I'm on to the next in the series ("Scam Man"), just to see how Morton gets back into Dev's life (something that I know from reading the Amazon/Goodreads blurbs -- talk about your spoilers!).
March 2, 2016
a humorous light-hearted adventure as Dev Haskill pet sits a golden retriever and works to provide security for another dog, Princess Anastasia. Princess Anastasia is going to be in a dog show and there are those who are not anxious for her to win. Meanwhile Morton, the retriever is falling in love with the Princess. Dev spoils Morton, allowing him to have beer and barbecue potato chips among other things. I loved the bond between Dev and Morton. Dev is good at his job and is constantly fighting off the "enemy" in a humorous way. Meanwhile Morton's owner becomes more and more detached from Dev and the owner of Princess Anastasia wants Dev to "relieve her stress".
There were some typos in the book that distracted from my reading. Although I loved the story up to the end, I was extremely disappointed by the ending. This book is just dying for a sequel. Morton, while Dev is fending off a would-be dog napper, has managed to relieve Princess Anastasia of her virginity. The Princess' owner has plans to breed her and well... I am dying to know what happens when Morton becomes the father. It was also sad in that . Dev and Morton have become true buddies and I would like to have seen their relationship continuing.
There were some typos in the book that distracted from my reading. Although I loved the story up to the end, I was extremely disappointed by the ending. This book is just dying for a sequel. Morton, while Dev is fending off a would-be dog napper, has managed to relieve Princess Anastasia of her virginity. The Princess' owner has plans to breed her and well... I am dying to know what happens when Morton becomes the father. It was also sad in that . Dev and Morton have become true buddies and I would like to have seen their relationship continuing.
July 30, 2018
Dev is with Maddie when she gets the news her mom was in a bike accident and has a broken hip. Maddie needs someone to watch her dog Morton while she gone and Dev gets stuck with the dog while she flies to Atlanta. Dev stops Tommy from taking Natasha’s poodle. Dev learns from Louie that Tommy is a professional gambler.
March 13, 2017
Dev's still a pretty unlikable/despicable guy. Actually, after having finished, I take it back. He's only mostly unlikable. Maddie is the one who's unlikable and despicable. Can't believe Dev stood for all her nonsense.
Princess Anastasia and Morton are the lead dogs in this story, and yes, one does go missing. Dev is hired to "bodyguard" Princess Anastasia and her owner/trainer in the week leading up to the big dog show. Turns out Princess Anastasia's owner has a pretty sketchy past and may have some contraband hidden on her property. All in all, a mess for Haskell,who ends up in the local PD's sights. Thank goodness he's used to that life.
Could use quite a bit of editing (bench's/benches, purpose/propose)...similar errors throughout.
Princess Anastasia and Morton are the lead dogs in this story, and yes, one does go missing. Dev is hired to "bodyguard" Princess Anastasia and her owner/trainer in the week leading up to the big dog show. Turns out Princess Anastasia's owner has a pretty sketchy past and may have some contraband hidden on her property. All in all, a mess for Haskell,who ends up in the local PD's sights. Thank goodness he's used to that life.
Could use quite a bit of editing (bench's/benches, purpose/propose)...similar errors throughout.
July 13, 2015
'Dog Gone' was another great story about the life and mishaps of Dev Haskell. There are quite a few things I love about this series. One is that the books can be read in any order and another is that you never know what Dev will get himself into, sometimes it's just being in the wrong spot at the wrong time, but you'll be entertained all the same. The storyline in this book was great. The way it played out was typical Dev style. You know there will be women involved and he'll most likely get beaten up. But the dead-pan humor is hilarious. I look forward to reading more in the 'Dev Haskell- Private Investigator' series. Definitely a great add to your tbr list.
October 25, 2015
This twelfth book in the Dev Haskell series is another of Mr. Faricy's best ones, in my opinion. Dev is asked by a woman to look after her dog Morton (in exchange for a sexual favor!) and Dev finds himself and the dog involved with a client and her poodle, Princess Anastasia, in a high-class dog show. Of course, bad guys are involved, Dev is again "hounded" by his police nemesis Manning as a suspect in a murder, he takes his usual beating by the bad guys, and is instrumental (with Morton) in retrieving a kidnapped Princess Anastasia.
If you've read other Dev Haskell novels and/or if you enjoy good PI stories with humor, I think you'll enjoy this one.
If you've read other Dev Haskell novels and/or if you enjoy good PI stories with humor, I think you'll enjoy this one.
September 3, 2016
A book of genius, as its author would say...LOL! It is fun in that Dev is constantly doing something with the golden retreiver Morton that his owner would despise. And, I learned a lot about dog shows. It is a fast read and enjoyable...not literary fiction, but what the hey, sometimes you just want to unwind right? Finally, it had an amazing and totally surprising ending. No wonder Detective Manning is always trying to catch Dev up.
January 31, 2016
Because the story involved dogs, I thought it might be an enjoyable read. It was, but not necessarily something I would highly recommend. Although the lead character was realistically portrayed, it was for that very reason that I didn't "love" the book. The main character is a bit too "modern" for my tastes and the promiscuous lifestyle he maintains isn't something that appeals to me. I doubt I will continue to read the series.
December 9, 2016
This was my first book to read in this series. It was very delightful. It was easy reading yet Dev's activities kept your interest. I really like Morton, the dog. I think he really adds to the storyline. It made me sad at the end of this book when Mortons original order came to get him. I later found out that Morton is inBook #13! Dvd and Morton make a great duo. There's intrigue and humor too. I can't wait to start reading #13!
July 4, 2015
Maybe should have been titled Maddie Gone. :) Dev's current girlfriend has to leave on a family emergency and he somehow ends up volunteering to watch her golden retriever, Morton. They ended up getting a cushy job protecting a dog trainer and her poodle for an upcoming dog show. Nothing is ever cushy for Dev, which we proceed to find out. Some side-splitting fun!
July 31, 2015
Fun mystery #12 in a awesome series about PI Dev Haskell
I've enjoyed each of the books in the Dev Haskell series and this book does not disappoint. Dev is a PI in Minneapolis hired to protect a show dog named Princess Anastasia and all the humorous possibilities. Dev has a temporary side kick, Mortan the dog. This is a fun read that never gets too heavy but isn't silly.
I've enjoyed each of the books in the Dev Haskell series and this book does not disappoint. Dev is a PI in Minneapolis hired to protect a show dog named Princess Anastasia and all the humorous possibilities. Dev has a temporary side kick, Mortan the dog. This is a fun read that never gets too heavy but isn't silly.
October 27, 2015
Easy to read
Not too shabby, but it did have a rather abrupt ending, which I found a little disconcerting. In general it was a "good story" where the Golden Retriever "Morton" was definitely the lead character. Nothing too dark and sinister. I was looking for a "light" mystery, and that was exactly what I got.
Not too shabby, but it did have a rather abrupt ending, which I found a little disconcerting. In general it was a "good story" where the Golden Retriever "Morton" was definitely the lead character. Nothing too dark and sinister. I was looking for a "light" mystery, and that was exactly what I got.
September 28, 2016
I love this series so much. Dev Haskell is a lovable character and his adventures always literally make me laugh out loud. This book was a fun take on dog shows. I loved Dev with Morton the Golden Retriever and almost wish that he'd been able to keep the dog!
Another winner in the series - I already have book 13 downloaded and ready to read. I totally recommend this book.
Another winner in the series - I already have book 13 downloaded and ready to read. I totally recommend this book.
October 24, 2015
Another light, fun mystery tale featuring private eye Dev Haskell. Throw in a lovable pooch named Morton, what more could you ask for? Dev and Morton are hired to protect a woman and her pedigreed poodle from thugs out to eliminate them from a major dog show. A pleasant change of pace read.
December 27, 2015
Morton is great!
The true protagonist in this story is a golden retriever named Morton; Dev is sort of an afterthought. I enjoyed a glimpse into the Dog World, though I've actually seen it up close and personal. The characters are well defined, and the plot is fast paced.
The true protagonist in this story is a golden retriever named Morton; Dev is sort of an afterthought. I enjoyed a glimpse into the Dog World, though I've actually seen it up close and personal. The characters are well defined, and the plot is fast paced.
October 8, 2016
The Princess and Her Prince
It was an interesting read, dealing with dogs and show dogs. Dev Haskell, a P.I. who spends time beating or getting beaten. This had a rather surprising way to win a competition.
It was an interesting read, dealing with dogs and show dogs. Dev Haskell, a P.I. who spends time beating or getting beaten. This had a rather surprising way to win a competition.
October 13, 2018
Just love this series!!
A usual dev Haskell gets himself in and out of trouble.. The adventure never end for this bumbling p.I.that is really just a nice guy looking for love and helping his friends..
A usual dev Haskell gets himself in and out of trouble.. The adventure never end for this bumbling p.I.that is really just a nice guy looking for love and helping his friends..
April 18, 2018
Action Packed!
An hilarious and action packed book, 'Dog Gone' will leave you with tears in your eyes and a sore belly from laughing so hard. A great story that will keep you riveted.
An hilarious and action packed book, 'Dog Gone' will leave you with tears in your eyes and a sore belly from laughing so hard. A great story that will keep you riveted.
July 19, 2015
Good
As always, enjoyed his style .I will look forward for his new book,and check up on the other ones that I missed. I think I have brought all his books already.
As always, enjoyed his style .I will look forward for his new book,and check up on the other ones that I missed. I think I have brought all his books already.
October 18, 2015
Very fun read, funny mystery about a private investigator, Dev Haskell, and Morton, a golden retriever that Dev is dogsitting.
October 15, 2015
Dog Show Fanciers-Don't Bother
Nice Story, reminds me of Sam and Bertha mysteries. Too bad the dog show and breed parts were so muddled.
Nice Story, reminds me of Sam and Bertha mysteries. Too bad the dog show and breed parts were so muddled.
October 14, 2015
Good read
Enjoyed this book. Descriptions were great and characters colorful. Just right for light reading. Very enjoyable. Looking forward to reading more of them.
Enjoyed this book. Descriptions were great and characters colorful. Just right for light reading. Very enjoyable. Looking forward to reading more of them.
March 20, 2017
Bored
Too many books too little time. Didn't finish because it just wasn't compelling tome. Nothing terrible just others I'd rather vread
Too many books too little time. Didn't finish because it just wasn't compelling tome. Nothing terrible just others I'd rather vread
October 25, 2015
Dog gone... too bad.
Loved it. Was hoping Dev and Morton could've stayed together. They had such a great relationship. Would have liked to see the first litter.
Loved it. Was hoping Dev and Morton could've stayed together. They had such a great relationship. Would have liked to see the first litter.
November 11, 2015
A bit too drawn out 4 this reader.... Not my style.
November 23, 2015
Dog Gone
I love this Dev Haskell series, an old fashioned detective, sexy, smart, quick paced...I loved Morton, wished he hadn't left!
I love this Dev Haskell series, an old fashioned detective, sexy, smart, quick paced...I loved Morton, wished he hadn't left!
December 14, 2015
Turned out not to be my type of book. Too much sex already in the first couple of chapters.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 65 reviews