Live and Let Growl

Melanie Travis #19

by Laurien Berenson

"If you like dogs, you'll love Laurien Berenson's Melanie Travis mysteries!" --Joanne Fluke, New York Times bestselling author

When her Aunt Peg lands a gig as judge at a Kentucky dog show, Melanie Travis welcomes the opportunity for a road trip. Too bad a killer has planned a deadly detour . . .

For a dog lover like Melanie, the opportunity to attend the Kentuckiana Dog Show Cluster is not to be missed. Fortunately, the timing coincides with her spring break from teaching, so she heads for central Kentucky with her sister-in-law Bertie and Aunt Peg, who's accepted a week-long judging assignment. Once there, Aunt Peg reconnects with an old friend, Ellie Gates Wanamaker, a former Standard Poodle exhibitor and a member of a well-heeled Kentucky family. Miss Ellie has been out of the dog show world for more than a decade, but when Melanie invites her to spectate at the Louisville Kennel Club dog show, she's eager to accompany her.

Miss Ellie's presence at the expo center, however, provokes mixed reactions from exhibitors she hasn't seen in years, including some outright animosity. The following day Melanie learns that Miss Ellie has suffered a fatal accident while exercising her dogs. Aunt Peg, however, suspects foul play. Wishing to avoid any scandal, Miss Ellie's pedigreed family prefers to let sleeping dogs lie, but as Melanie begins to sniff around, she discovers Miss Ellie had many secrets, both in the dog show world and amongst her Kentucky kin . . .

Praise For Death Of A Dog Whisperer

"Melanie's engaging narration, with its slightly sarcastic flair, makes her utterly relatable. Fans will roll over with joy, and new cozy readers will likely scoop up the rest of the series." --Publishers Weekly

"Berenson cleverly weaves in interesting details about different breeds and showmanship. Fans of Miranda James' Cat in the Stacks series may also enjoy Berenson." --Booklist

Praise For Gone With The Woof

"Berenson, who has a nose for balancing fun and fright, devises another story that will appeal to dog aficionados and cozy lovers alike." --Kirkus Reviews

"A wonderful novel. Even better if you read it with a dog on your lap." --Suspense Magazine

Genres: Mystery, Cozy Mystery, Cozy, Fiction, Dogs, Animals, Murder Mystery

305 pages, Kindle Edition

Published August 1, 2016

About the author

Laurien Berenson is the award-winning author of the long running Melanie Travis canine mystery series and the new Senior Sleuths series starring Peg Turnbull and Rose Donovan as a pair of seventyish sisters-in-law who are learning to put aside old grudges as they work together to solve mysteries. DIE ANOTHER DANE (#31 in the Melanie Travis series) is out now.

Laurien's work has appeared numerous magazines and the New York Times. She and her husband live on a farm in Kentucky, surrounded by horses and dogs.

Reviews

[Barbara · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 stars

In this 19th book in the 'Melanie Travis Mysteries', Melanie helps investigate a suspicious death in Kentucky - and learns all about dog shows and horse racing. The book can be read as a standalone.

*****



Melanie Travis lives in Connecticut, teaches at Howard Academy, and shares a loving home with her husband, two sons, and five Standard Poodles.

Over spring break Melanie and her favorite poodle, Faith.....


.....accompany Aunt Peg.....



.....and sister-in-law Bertie......



to the Kentuckiana Dog Show Cluster in Louisville, where Aunt Peg will be a judge and pregnant Bertie will exhibit dogs.

Aunt Peg also has additional business in Kentucky. She recently inherited a Thoroughbred broodmare named Lucky Luna who's stabled at a horse farm there, and Peg wants to see the horse and consult with the professionals caring for her.



As it happens Aunt Peg's old friend Ellie Gates Wanamaker, a former exhibitor of Standard Poodles who grew up on a Thoroughbred farm, lives in Kentucky. So Aunt Peg and Melanie drop in on Miss Ellie, where Aunt Peg hopes to gain some insight into the business of raising/racing Thoroughbreds. Afterwards Miss Ellie agrees to visit the Kentuckiana Dog Show....



.....where Melanie notices that - though the former exhibitor is welcomed by many old acquaintances - there's an undercurrent of whispers and hostility. Melanie soon learns that a tragic car accident a couple of decades before caused Miss Ellie to abandon the dog show business...though there's more to the story than Melanie realizes.

A few days later Miss Ellie is found dead on the farm where she grew up, apparently having fallen while walking her four Jack Russell Terriers (the cute canine on the cover). However Aunt Peg considers Miss Ellie's death suspicious and ropes Melanie into helping her investigate.

The story is billed as a mystery, and does have some mystery elements. Most of the book, though, is about dogs and Thoroughbred horses. As Aunt Peg, Melanie, and Bertie go about their business in Kentucky we learn all about dog shows: the categories in which the dogs are shown; what the judges look for; the point system used to rate the dogs; the various awards (winner, reserve, etc.); how trainers and exhibitors groom and prepare the dogs; funny things that happen at dog shows; the camaraderie and rivalry among exhibitors; and more.





We also find out a good bit about the Thoroughbred racehorse business, which is apparently a very tricky enterprise. Thoroughbred horses are very costly to buy and care for and there are plenty of scoundrels in the business, ready to scam and take advantage of rich amateurs. The various schemes afloat to rook wealthy novice investors (assuming the descriptions in the book are accurate) are dismaying and fascinating. In any case I won't be buying a racehorse anytime soon....though I've been known to bet a buck or two on occasion. LOL 😊.



I enjoyed the humorous scenes where Melanie hobnobs with eccentric friends at the dog show. One quirky older fellow - concerned about Bertie's (non-existent) morning sickness - brings her a box filled with every kind of cracker he can find (ha ha ha). I was also amused when Melanie imbibed a little too much Kentucky bourbon while chatting up a person of interest. Aunt Peg, always feisty and outspoken, is also quite entertaining - and completely resistant to Melanie's efforts to reign her in. My favorite character in the book , though, is Faith - the smart, sweet, endearing poodle who always knows when someone needs a doggie hug.



I enjoyed the book but I would have liked a little more of a mystery element, perhaps with a twist or two. Still, I learned a lot about dog shows and racehorses and would recommended the book to fans of cozies - especially animal lovers.

Thanks to Netgalley, the author, and the publisher for a copy of this book.

You can read my book reviews at:
http://reviewsbybarbsaffer.blogspot.com/

[Oliver Clarke · Rating 3 out of 5]

I’ve never read a book with so many uses of the word “bitch”

[Lisa Ks Book Reviews · Rating 1 out of 5]

This wonderful mystery will have you barking with delight, and leave you begging for more!

Before I knew what cozy mysteries were, when I was reading suspense thrillers, I was trying you encourage my younger sister to read more by buying her the Author Laurien Berenson’s series because they were nice clean stories and they were about dogs. I could kick myself now for letting my sister pass them on after she read them. But I will own the entire series again one day. Yes, they are that good!

Laurien Berenson consistently pens a brilliant mystery that captures and holds the reader’s attention and imaginations. LIVE AND LET GROWL is written proof of why this series has made it to nineteen books!

Immersed in a world of dog shows, horse breeding, and a first rate mystery, I was a happy woman indeed while reading this superb story. With more twists and turns than a show dog going through its routine, I was breathless by the time I reached the prize winning conclusion!

Do yourself a huge favor, pick up a copy of LIVE AND LET GROWL.

[Linda Langford · Rating 4 out of 5]

Melanie Travis, her Aunt Peg, and her sister-in-law, Bertie, travel from Connecticut to Kentucky on a dual mission--compete in and judge a dog show, and meet a Thoroughbred horse Aunt Peg has inherited. Upon arrival, Peg also reunites with an old friend and retired show competitor, Ellie Gates Wanamaker, who's also knowledgeable about horses.

When the women find themselves in two different fields--one canine, the other equine; bitter rivalries, greed and corruption become a tangled mess of leashes and reins in which Miss Elle is the unfortunate victim. Did her beloved Jack Russell Terriers cause her to fall, or has someone connected to her past lashed out in anger. Suspects abound and the story wraps up to a spectacular ending that fans of author Laurien Berenson are sure to enjoy! If you love cozies, dogs and/or horses this is the perfect story for you.

I received a complimentary ARC of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.

[Maggie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a nice light change from the psychological thrillers that form the main bulk of my reading. This was very enjoyable reading for anyone that loves dogs and is interested in the way dog shows work- I come into that category! As a murder mystery this wasn't terribly demanding but that wasn't a problem for me. I would like to read more in this series.

Thanks to Netgalley for the chance to read and review this fun book.

[Cozybooklady · Rating 5 out of 5]

It's time for Spring Break and where do you think Melanie Travis will be spending hers? At the Kentuckiana Dog Show Cluster of course!
Instead of relaxing during her break from Howard Academy, Melanie finds herself traveling with Aunt Peg,who is doing a week long judging stint and of course, Melanie's canine companion, Faith.
While in Kentucky, Aunt Peg plans to reconnect with an old friend. Reunions are fun, however, when an accident takes the life of Miss Ellie, Aunt Peg and Melanie are fast to hunt for clues. It appears Miss Ellie has made some enemies in her life time and the suspect list includes her own family. You won't want to miss this fantastic book by the wonderfully talented Laurien Berenson.

I have been a huge fan of this series from the beginning. The author tells a wonderful story and the attention to detail is spot on. This is the perfect cozy mystery for both dog and horse lovers. The relationship among the family members is strong and believable. Ms. Berenson has created a world in which it is very easy to lose oneself.

I was honored to receive an ARC of this book from the author in exchange for my far and honest review. All thoughts are my own.

[Clare O'Beara · Rating 5 out of 5]

Well done to the author on keeping this series fresh. Melanie and her Aunt Peg with their large Poodles are in Kentucky looking into a matter of Peg's having inherited a brood mare. As Peg knows everyone in the dog show world, they meet up with a senior lady who used to be big in showing and take her to a show; a murder inevitably occurs as old wounds are re-opened. Plenty of the scene however is set on a stud farm.

Much talk about the background work involved in showing large fluffy dogs. Much talk also about pregnancy as a lady is expecting. Business as usual for this cosy mystery series really.

I downloaded an ARC from Net Galley and this is an unbiased review.

[Jacqui · Rating 4 out of 5]

Laurien Berenson's Live and Let Growl (Kensington 2016),#19 in the Melanie Travis series, is a delightful cozy mystery starring special ed teacher Melanie Travis. She's been working full time, raising a three-year-old and caring for a house full of poodles (the silent stars of the series). Her husband arranges a surprise vacation to a Kentucky dog show to accompany Aunt Peg on two tasks: look into a thoroughbred horse she's inherited and help a pregnant cousin at a dog show where's she is showing a collection of dogs. What should be a relaxing, fun weekend is turned upside down when a renowned breeder dies and both Travis and Aunt Peg can't accept that it was an accident.

From early on, it's clear that this book is as much a procedural on thoroughbreds and dog shows as it is about solving a murder mystery. Lots of times, the author interrupts the story to share details about some facet of show dogs or race horses, all told simply enough even an armchair enthusiast can understand.

"Mandy Jo was carrying her Open Bitch cupped beneath her arm and she had a Greyhound comb tucked inside her belt."

"Some judges use their eyes to evaluate a dog's conformation. Others rely on touch to tell them what they need to know. Their hands check the angle of a dog's shoulder and feel for depth of chest. They skim over the topline and down the slope of the hind legs."

But, these deviations do slow the action. In fact, the murder mystery didn't pop up until well into the story and once it started, you'd never accuse the pace of being heart-stopping or frenetic (though there are some parts that are). But, the story is well-delivered, thanks to the folksy voice of the main character and her down-to-earth view on the world around her. The storyline itself isn't particularly tricky, but there are enough intriguing twists and turns to keep anyone who loves dogs reading.

Interestingly enough, none of the characters are exceptional or brilliant. None have a hidden background in unraveling mysteries. No one has eidetic memories or super talents--not even an abiding passion for solving mysteries. What Travis and her cohorts have is curiosity and the inability to let well enough alone.

While you could read this as I did--before any of the others in the series--knowing Travis' background as an amateur sleuth would make her actions more believable when she involves herself in an investigation most of us would leave to someone with a badge. Where I did have to pause a moment to think about that, her curiosity and inability to let well enough alone did allow me to suspend any disbelief I had and rabidly read on.

It should be noted that the dogs play only minor parts in the plot. Their role is to add interest for all those people (like me) who love any book that includes a dog. So, if you love reading cozy mysteries about amateur sleuths who happen to think the God's greatest gift to mankind is a dog, this may be the perfect book for you.

[Laura · Rating 5 out of 5]

" 'Kentucky seemed like such a safe place,' Sam mused...'Serene, pastoral...just farms and bluegrass and happy horses...' "
Melanie Travis and her Aunt Peg Turnball are off for an adventure.
If you are a fan of this series you would expect it to include a dog show, would probably be disappointed if the book did not have a certain focus on dogs, but we are also gifted a new world to explore -- the world of thoroughbred race horses!
Aunt Peg is judging a dogshow in the midwest, the southern midwest.
The powers of author Laurien Berenson's descriptions!
If you have never been to a dog show in person, or if, like me, it has been a while since you mingled with the canine elite, while reading you will be immersed in the sights, sounds, attitudes and complete experience of show life from the gossiping and grooming to the griping and commisseration.

When Peg inherits a broodmare, niece Melanie's plans for a relaxing spring break from teaching are unexpectedly detoured. This is a trip that brings past lives and memories and present lives and nightmares together, I have to add that the irreverant discussion about what happened to the Shakers made me smile. Standard poodle, Faith, adds just the right amount of unspoken commentary throughout the book.

"Because this plan isn't already wacky enough?" (Melanie Travis)

This is not a cut and fluffed mystery with a clear motive and suspect.
Is the "accident" which occurs related to the dog world and its grudges or the horse world and its secrets or to something Melanie and Peg have yet to dig up?
I guarantee this mystery will have you racing to the final pages before you discover what is beneath and behind these unexpected events.

I did receive an advanced copy of this wonderful book for review purposes.
I have been reading and loving this series for many, many years.
You can read this as a stand alone but I recommend you read each book in the series just because you will love them all.

[Betty · Rating 5 out of 5]

It is Spring Vacation time and Melanie goes with Aunt Peg to a cluster of dog shows in Kentucky. Aunt Peg has judging assignments in 3 of the shows. Bertie takes her string to the shows. While there Aunt Peg is interested in Thoroughbreds as she has inherited a broodmare. Miss Ellie is a friend and Aunt Peg is delighted to see her again learn about her horse.A lot good information on thoroughbred racing is included which I enjoyed reading. Miss Ellie attended one of the dog shows and there were positive and negative reactions to her presence. The following day, the news spread throughout the show grounds that Miss Ellie has passed away. The death occurred at her family's racing stables. Melanie and others find it hard to believe that Miss Ellie would fall in an area were familiar to her. Melanie starts to explore the circumstances surrounding the death. Melanie with Aunt Peg and Faith extend their stay in order to find answers. I highly recommend this series.

Disclosure: I received a free copy from Kensington Books through NetGalley for an honest review. I would like to thank them for this opportunity to read the book. The opinions expressed

[Patty · Rating 5 out of 5]

Live and Let Growl by Laurien Berenson is the 19th book in the Melanie Travis mystery series. Reading this book made me feel like I was visiting good friends, and catching up on their latest adventure. Melanie and her Aunt Peg travel from their home in Connecticut to Kentucky where Aunt Peg is judging the Kentuckiana Dog Show, and to see the race horse she recently inherited. While in Kentucky, Aunt Peg connects with her old friend Miss Ellie, who is an expert on show dogs and thoroughbred horses. When Miss Ellie is found dead, Aunt Peg is convinced it was murder, so Melanie agrees to investigate.

I love this series, and this book! I love the well developed characters and plot of this story. Melanie is very likeable, with a fun sense of humor and funny how she deals with her Aunt Peg. This book kept me reading, page after page to find out who killed Miss Ellie, and why. The book is fast paced and all round fun . I strongly recommend this book and this whole series, for people who love cozy mystery book, show dogs and race horses.

I received this book in exchange for a fair and honest review.

[Nancy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Melanie Travis finds herself on a surprise trip to Kentucky with her Aunt Peg. While Peg is in Kentucky judging a dog show she wants them to check out a retired race horse that she just inherited. But when Peg's friend, Ellie Wanamaker Gates, has an accident and ends up in the bottom of a ravine Peg and Melanie question if it truly was an accident. They begin to investigate and they find out there is more than one secret in the Gates family.
This is book #19 in A Melanie Travis Canine Mystery series. This series is consistently good with believable, relatable characters. I received a complimentary copy from Net Galley in exchange for a honest review.

[Loraine · Rating 3 out of 5]

This cozy mystery is by a new-to-me author. I chose it because the blurb on the back sounded interesting and it was set in Kentucky which was a state I was trying to fill in on the 50 state challenge. The book was all right but I felt overwhelmed about halfway through with all the dog show information that was included. I also felt the cozy mystery thread was somewhat light and the characters were not as well developed as they could have been causing me to not really connect with any of them. Because it is #19 in this series, it may be that they were more fully developed in the beginning books of the series.

[Jayme(theghostreader) · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the nineteenth book in the series. In this installment, Melanie goes to Kentucky with her Aunt Peg and her sister in law Bertie for a dog show. Aunt Peg runs into an old friend, Miss Ellie who used to show standard poodles. Not everyone is happy to see Miss Ellie. Memories run long and there seems to be some bad blood between her and her former competitors. The next day, Miss Ellie is found dead and it is up to Melanie to solve the case. Other than learning about dogs, I learned about thoroughbred horses. Aunt Peg had inherited a horse. Racing horses and showing dogs have some similarities in common. The featured dog breed in this installment was the Jack Russel terrier. Miss Ellie owned four of them. Their names were George, Paul, John and Ringo, like the Beatles. I thought that was cute.

[Leah · Rating 4 out of 5]

This takes place in the spring in Kentucky. The story involves dog shows, a horse, a farm, an accident, and fraud. Melanie and her aunt, Peg, and sister-in-law go to Kentucky for dog shows and a horse. There are several possibilities for what happened at the farm, and I was surprised by what actually happened.

[JP Chang · Rating 2 out of 5]

Hmm… the first of the 5 Berenstein dog books I’m going to read. This was not very good. The writing is quite juvenile, the main character is only relatable for middle aged white women, and there are a lot of bone apple tea mistakes like using forbidding instead of foreboding and saying turning into a conversation instead of tuning into a conversation. Very annoying

[Heidi Burkhart · Rating 4 out of 5]

Melanie, Faith, and Aunt Peg head for Kentucky after Peg inherits a race horse. I learned a lot!

[Jane · Rating 3 out of 5]

The change of scene (Lexington, KY) was fun but I have a problem with murder mysteries that don't really solve the murder. I personally like the artificiality of having all the loose ends meticulously tied up.

[Kathy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Live and Let Growl is a cute, cozy mystery. I had not read any other Meanie Travis books in the series, so I can readily say that this is a stand-alone book, although part of a long series. In this book, Melanie is approaching spring break. Her Aunt Peg has landed a stint as a judge at a Kentucky dog show while, at about the same time, inheriting a Thoroughbred broodmare named Lucky Luna, who's stabled at a horse farm there, so Melanie, not working right then, travels with her aunt to the show and to check out the horse. After arriving in Kentucky, Melanie and her Aunt Peg meet up with Aunt Peg’s old friend and former poodle exhibitor Ellie Gates Wanamaker. Ellie left the show circuit after a serious accident, but remains connected to the dog show world and enjoys a long time relationship and reputation within this circuit. Ellie is also from a well-connected Kentucky family in the area. Not having been to a show in years, Ellie agrees to go to this expo with Melanie and her aunt. Things do not turn out as planned from that moment on, as a mysterious killing becomes entangled with the dog show and the duo’s visit to Kentucky. Melanie and her aunt likewise become involved in the investigation of this killing, as can be expected. At this point, the book actually becomes enmeshed in a series of twists and turns as it plods along to a conclusion and solution for the killing. A lot of these twists and turns were well done, although the ending was fairly predictable and not as exciting as it might have been.

Still, I enjoyed reading this book. It was not that long and moved along fairly well. The characters were well developed and lent intrigue to the story line. I did, however, fine Melanie’s Aunt Peg a bit too overbearing at times, and could have used a bit less of her in-your-face and I-know-more-and-better-than-you attitude. As a long-time dog lover, I enjoyed the setting and the information about the inner workings of a dog show and the preparations the exhibitors go through when showing dogs. I also enjoyed the treat of having Melanie’s standard poodle, Faith, who accompanied Melanie and her aunt on their trip, interspersed throughout. I wish there had been more of Faith, but that story is/may be for another book. I think this book will appeal to anyone who enjoys a good cozy mystery or reading about dogs. It will also appeal to a reader looking for something enjoyable but with a little substance. I received this from NetGalley to read and review.

[Kristina Anderson · Rating 3 out of 5]

Live and Let Growl by Laurien Berenson is the nineteenth Melanie Travis Mystery. Melanie Travis is looking forward to spring break. Then it is sprung on her by her family that she is going with Aunt Peg to Kentucky. Aunt Peg has just inherited a thoroughbred named Lucky Luna and wants to check it out. Aunt Peg (Margaret Turnbull) is also a judge of Standard Poodles in a dog show nearby. Before checking out the horse, they meet up with Ellie Gates Wanamaker. She is an old friend of Peg's (she used to raise Standard Poodles until a car accident). Ellie is bright, energetic and vibrant woman. Peg gets her to agree to come for a day at the dog show. The next day they hear that Ellie died in an accident on the family farm. Peg is not sure it is an accident and wants to investigate (actually, have Melanie look into it). Melanie agrees to explore the possibilities (talk to some people, look at the accident site). Who wanted Ellie dead? Can Melanie and Peg find the culprit before there is another "accident"?

Live and Let Growl was well-written and contained good characters. I felt Aunt Peg was little overbearing and Melanie easily pushed or manipulated. The story got bogged down, though, with all the details about dog shows and thoroughbred horses (it was very confusing). The pace of the book did pick up during the last ten percent of the book. The mystery was no puzzle despite the writer's attempts at misdirection and to lead the reader down a different path. I kept hoping for a good twist (I ended up inventing my own). Live and Let Growl can be read as a stand-alone book. The author does a good job of updating the reader on the characters, habits, and past adventures. I give Live and Let Growl 3.5 out of 5 stars. The books focus was just not on the mystery which was disappointing. Will I read the next book in the series? Yes. I believe I might like the book more without all the dog show judging details (the judging is extremely perplexing) combined with the horse information (it was a little too much information for one novel). I am glad that I did read this book because it introduced me to a new series and author.

I received a complimentary copy of Live and Let Growl from NetGalley in exchange for an honest evaluation of the novel.

[Anam Cara · Rating 4 out of 5]

One of the things that amazes me about cozy mysteries is how much information the author has to know to write a good one. This particular book is a good example.

The setting of the story is a dog show. Everyone has probably heard of the Westminster Dog Show and some have probably even watched some of it on TV. But to flesh out this novel and make it believable, the author has to know what happens behind the scenes of a dog show. She went into scoring and classes of dogs. There were levels of information that the average person couldn't even guess at, much less know. And then, in addition to the dog show, we have a plot that concerns Thoroughbred horses. It is clearly stated that one of the main characters does not know horses the way she does dogs, but her knowledge of animals can transfer to horses.

All the characters were well developed so by the end of the book, they felt like old friends. I want to spend more time with them.

This may seem a bit silly but as an English teacher, I am always concerned about proper grammar and tend to focus (perhaps overfocus) on pronouns. When I read, I often have to stop and mentally correct what the author has written. Because I found no grammatical errors, this book was easy to read.

This book seemed to stand out to me as a wonderful mystery without a hint of questionable morals in the main characters. In fact, there are some scenes where a primary character is quite put out with the idea that something is happening that is illegal. And she keeps pointing out that the actions of another character are illegal. It is so important for students to be able to read about characters that display good morals and are outstanding role models for them.

On a personal note, we have been thinking about getting another dog. Our last one was a Geat Pyr. But in reading this, we decided to consider a standard Poodle or a Newfoundland as well as Great Pyr. Thank you, Laurien Berenson, for reminding us of other breeds.

[LORI CASWELL · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dollycas’s Thoughts

Racehorses and dogs come together as Melanie, Bertie and Peg head to the Kentuckiana Dog Show Cluster and to check out Peg’s new inheritance. They aren’t just horsing around either when one of Peg’s old friends, Ellie Gates Wanamaker, is found dead. Accident or murder, Peg is like a dog with a bone to get answers.

I am so late to the Melanie Travis Mystery Party and I still don’t understand how I have missed this series. But let me tell you, Laurien Berenson made me feel right at home. I jumped right into this story and enjoyed it immensely. She gave enough of a backstory that I never felt lost or that I was missing some important details. That is hard to do with a long standing series as this. I love these characters and want to go back up and read much more about them and find out how this wonderful group came together.

The only hesitation I had was understanding the horse breeding, selling, training processes but that is a very complicated thing unless you live in that world. It was totally on me not on the author’s storytelling.

I so enjoyed learning about the wonderful poodles and the Jack Russell Terriers. As a parent to two Border Collie/Blue Heeler mixes, I understand clearly how each breed has their own tendencies, traits and idiosyncrasies. No matter what they are we love them and the author’s love was shining from the beginning of this story until the end.

Laurien Berenson writes a heck of a mystery too. Right up until the end we were guessing about what happened and why and who was responsible. It went right down to the wire just like a great horse race.

I am excited to read more of these stories, catching up and going forward.

Thank you Ms. Berenson for a delightful story to curl up with.

[RO G'ma · Rating 3 out of 5]

Live and Let Growl is the 19th book in Laurien Berenson’s Melanie Travis series. This is the first book I’ve read in this series; however, the author provided great character background and I easily understood their backgrounds and relationships and didn’t feel lost jumping in this far into the series. I enjoyed the book and learned a lot about dog shows and thoroughbreds horses but I was disappointed that there wasn’t more of a mystery aspect in the book.

Melanie Travis, her sister-in-law, Bertie, Aunt Peg, and Melanie’s favorite Standard Poodle, Faith, travel from Connecticut to Louisville to attend the Kentuckiana Dog Show Cluster. Aunt Peg is one of the judges, Bertie is showing dogs, and Melanie and Faith are going just for the fun of it. Aunt Peg has additional business in Kentucky because she recently inherited a thoroughbred broodmare named Lucky Luna and she wants to see the horse and consult with the professionals caring for her. Ellie Gates Wanamaker, Aunt Peg’s old friend and a former exhibitor of Standard Poodles, grew up on a thoroughbred ranch and lives in Kentucky, so Aunt Peg and Melanie make plans to talk with her about thoroughbred ownership. Aunt Peg talks Miss Ellie into attending some of the dog show with Melanie but after lunch, she tells Melanie she’d like to spend some time alone. The next day they learn that there has been a tragic accident on the ranch and Miss Ellie is dead. The local authorities aren’t looking into the accident and Aunt Peg thinks the death is suspicious so she and Melanie start their own investigation.

I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review from NetGalley.

[Doward Wilson · Rating 5 out of 5]

A mesmerizing adventure set in the world of show dogs and thoroughbred horses. Meet Melanie Travis and her Aunt Peg, breeders and exhibitors of Standard Poodles in Connecticut. Aunt Peg has been asked to be a judge at a prestigious dog show in Kentucky at the same time she inherits a thoroughbred broodmare in the same area as the dog show. Seeking advice about her new horse, Aunt Peg renews her friendship with Miss Ellie, a member of a famous Kentucky horse raising family. At one time Miss Ellie had also been a top breeder and exhibitor of Standard Poodles, so Aunt Peg invited her to spend a day at the dog show with Melanie, while Peg did judging duties. The day after she visited the show, Miss Ellie is found dead on the family farm, the apparent victim of an accident. Not believing that it was an accident and spurred on by Aunt Peg, Melanie starts an investigation. With suspects in both the dog and horse world this mystery has plenty of twists & turns that delivers a surprising ending. I have read the first two books in this series and can't wait to read the other thirteen. This is the sixteenth book and it can be read as a stand alone. I was not lost at any point with the characters and background because the author provided enough background information without detracting or slowing down the main mystery. Dog and horse fans will love this book. But all cozy mystery fans will find this look into two fascinating worlds, a delightful adventure.

I received this ARC from the author. This is my honest opinion and fair review.

[Christine Lowe · Rating 4 out of 5]

Horses and Dogs and Murder, Oh My!

Reading a new Laurien Berenson novel is like a family reunion. I look forward to catching up on all the latest with Melanie Travis and her family and then all too soon the festivities are over and I'm waiting for our next get together. I don't remember the first book I read but I liked it enough to begin reading the series in order, starting with book 1.

In the latest book we are introduced to the world of horses. Aunt Peg is bequeathed a broodmare that is being kept at a well known stable in Kentucky. As fate would have it, Peg was asked to judge at the popular four day dog show called the Kentuckiana Cluster that is near those stables. Bertie, Melanie's sister-in-law, is handling several dogs at the same show. Melanie is drafted to accompany Aunt Peg on the drive from Connecticut and to help Bertie at the show.
Of course, Aunt Peg had a few other things for Melanie to take care of while they are in Kentucky.


I enjoyed learning the ins and outs of horse pedigrees, breeding, buying and selling. There was also murder, dirty dealing, threats, grudges, new friendships and an announcement about a new baby to come. As always there are new characters and old that are well developed and believable. The plot was interesting. There is no graphic sex, language or violence. The bond between Melanie and her poodle, Faith is a fine example of what is possible when humans take the time to know what their animals need and supply it.

[Libby Mckinmer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Live and Let Growl
by Laurien Berenson
Kensington


When Melanie Travis and her aunt Peg Turnbull set out for the Kentuckiana Cluster dog show, loyal fans know the trip will be adventure-filled. And author Laurien Berenson does not disappoint in this newest addition to the series.

It’s spring break, and Peg has been invited to judge Poodles at the show, so off to Kentucky they go, meeting some of the series regulars there – Bertie, Terry and Crawford, top handlers and friends, who are showing. While in Kentucky, Peg reconnects with Ellie Gates Wanamaker, with whom she’d showed thirty years earlier and who had retired from the breed ring after a mysterious event a decade ago. Melanie, enlisted to squire Miss Ellie around the show, is surprised by the varying reactions to the legend in the Poodle world – from warm welcome to dislike.

Ellie comes from a wealthy family deeply involved in the Thoroughbred industry as well, which comes in handy since Peg has just inherited a pregnant Thoroughbred broodmare. Peg and Melanie visit the mare and discover how much there is to learn about becoming a horse owner.

In typical Melanie fashion, she’s drawn into solving an unexpected murder…this one with lots of twists, turns, Thoroughbreds and terriers.

Don’t miss this new Melanie Travis adventure…horses are the icing on the dog-filled tale this time.

Five stars

[Gena - My Book Reviews for You · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the 19th book in the Melanie Travis series. The only thing I didn't like about this book was that now I am caught up with the series and have to wait months for the next book to be released! It's spring break time. Melanie somehow ends up going along with Aunt Peg to Kentucky for some important dog shows. Melanie's sister-in-law Bertie and their friends Crawford and Terry are attending the dog shows also. Sounds like a nice relaxing vacation break for Melanie with some of her favorite people! Aunt Peg also has some surprising news about a horse in Kentucky. One thing leads to another and before she knows it Melanie and Aunt Peg are right in the middle of a mystery. Laurien writes so that the characters are fun and interesting, making her books enjoyable to read! You will like this book if you like cozy mysteries, humor, horses, dogs, or dog shows.

[Jan · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have fallen in love with Standard Poodles since I have read this series. Unfortunately, I cannot have that big a dog in our condo. Sigh. This book, “Live and Let Growl”, is another winner, even though the only poodle in this one is the inimitable Faith. She is enough. Melanie, Aunt Peg and Bertie are in Kentucky. Peg is judging a dog show there and working on knowing the horse business. A friend has left her a pregnant broodmare and she wants to find out what she can about thoroughbreds. Bertie is showing dogs and Melanie is along for the ride. Of course they run into murder. There are a number of twists and turns and I was surprised by the ending. It was a fun read and I highly recommend reading it, as well as the rest of the series.

[J. · Rating 4 out of 5]

Melanie is off to Kentucky with her Aunt Peg for a restful week before she goes back to work as a special-ed teacher. Aunt Peg is judging at a dog show and checking on a race horse she inherited. While there, they meet an old friend, Ellie, from the poodle dog shows. Ellie dies in a fall, but Peg is suspicious. Now Melanie's restful week turns active as she and Peg investigate. Always enjoyable, this series is always a fun read and a good mystery. Not only do we see the dog show from an insider's perspective, we also are introduced to the world of thoroughbreds. This is another fun read and a good mystery in this series.

[Christine · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was the first book I read in the series. There was plenty of information given about the characters that I didn't feel like I missed anything. Melanie Travis, her poodle Faith, and Aunt Peg, head to Connecticut after Aunt Peg receives a thoroughbred as an inheritance. As they become immersed in the racehorse industry and try to connect with an old friend Ellie, they become tangled in Ellie's family drama. This was a fun cozy read with lots of info about dog shows and racehorses. Animal lovers would enjoy this book.

Thank you to NetGalley, Laurien Berenson, and the publisher for a copy of this book.