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Andy Carpenter #18
Deck the Hounds
This Christmas mystery, featuring criminal defense lawyer Andy Carpenter and his faithful golden retriever, Tara, showcases Rosenfelt’s trademark humor and larger-than-life characters.
Reluctant lawyer Andy Carpenter doesn’t usually stop to help others, but seeing a dog next to a homeless man inspires him to give the pair some money to help. It’s just Andy’s luck that things don’t end there. Soon after Andy’s encounter with them, man and dog are attacked in the middle of the night on the street. The dog defends its new owner, and the erstwhile attacker is bitten but escapes. But the dog is quarantined and the man, Don Carrigan, is heartbroken.
Andy’s wife Laurie can’t resist helping the duo after learning Andy has met them before… it’s the Christmas season after all. In a matter of days Don and his dog Zoey are living above Andy’s garage and become two new additions to the family. It’s not until Andy accidentally gives away his guest’s name during an interview that things go awry; turns out Don is wanted for a murder that happened two years ago. Don not only claims he’s innocent, but that he had no idea that he was wanted for a crime he has no knowledge of in the first place. It’s up to Andy to exonerate his new friend, if he doesn’t get pulled into the quagmire first.
David Rosenfelt’s signature wit, charm, and cleverness are back again in this most exciting installment yet.
Reluctant lawyer Andy Carpenter doesn’t usually stop to help others, but seeing a dog next to a homeless man inspires him to give the pair some money to help. It’s just Andy’s luck that things don’t end there. Soon after Andy’s encounter with them, man and dog are attacked in the middle of the night on the street. The dog defends its new owner, and the erstwhile attacker is bitten but escapes. But the dog is quarantined and the man, Don Carrigan, is heartbroken.
Andy’s wife Laurie can’t resist helping the duo after learning Andy has met them before… it’s the Christmas season after all. In a matter of days Don and his dog Zoey are living above Andy’s garage and become two new additions to the family. It’s not until Andy accidentally gives away his guest’s name during an interview that things go awry; turns out Don is wanted for a murder that happened two years ago. Don not only claims he’s innocent, but that he had no idea that he was wanted for a crime he has no knowledge of in the first place. It’s up to Andy to exonerate his new friend, if he doesn’t get pulled into the quagmire first.
David Rosenfelt’s signature wit, charm, and cleverness are back again in this most exciting installment yet.
321 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 16, 2018
886 people are currently reading
2518 people want to read
About the author
David Rosenfelt
74 books2,910 followersI 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...
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...
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February 10, 2019
In Andy Carpenter’s household, his wife Laurie and adopted son Ricky hold fast to the idea that Christmas begins with Thanksgiving and doesn’t end until the end of January. For me, it just ended today when I finished this novel.
Andy comes across a homeless man with a Golden Retriever mix and gives him $20 and a $50 coupon for a pet store. The next thing he knows, he is defending this same man against murder charges, the man’s dog is now in the Tara Foundation that Andy runs with his friend and previous client, and after going through the discovery documents from the prosecution, the only good news is that his new client, Don Carrigan’s dog, is about to have puppies.
From here, it is non-stop action and fact-finding. Andy is like a hound chasing after information. He doesn’t care what the information is as long as he has it. That is how he works: gathering facts and miscellaneous pieces of disconnected information – until some of it starts to fit together to form a picture – and in this case, the picture is sinister.
Along with the suspense and working my hardest alongside Andy and his team to solve the mysteries involved in each case, I enjoy the moments of humour that pop out when least expected. I also love hearing about the Tara Foundation and the care they take to match the dogs in their shelter with the right people. Reading about the home life that Andy and his young family (including the two dogs, Tara and Sebastian) enjoy together is a pleasure.
I also enjoy reading about Andy’s team – equal parts heart-stopping and funny. We have Edna, the self-appointed office manager who rarely shows up for work yet cashes her checks exactly on the day she receives them, and then there is Marcus – the silent hero who is like Andy’s secret shadow when the going gets rough. Hicks, Andy’s assistant lawyer who, as Andy says, not only isn’t a glass-half-full guy, but doesn’t believe the glass will ever be anything but empty, and Sam who rounds out the team. He is really Andy’s accountant but doubles as a superlative computer hacker. When Sam finds information Andy wants to use at trial, Hicks draws up the paperwork to subpoena the records through proper channels.
This story is both horrific and heart-warming, menacing and humourous. Above all, these novels are always charming, fast-paced, and well written. I look forward to staying in touch with all these characters long into the future.
Andy comes across a homeless man with a Golden Retriever mix and gives him $20 and a $50 coupon for a pet store. The next thing he knows, he is defending this same man against murder charges, the man’s dog is now in the Tara Foundation that Andy runs with his friend and previous client, and after going through the discovery documents from the prosecution, the only good news is that his new client, Don Carrigan’s dog, is about to have puppies.
From here, it is non-stop action and fact-finding. Andy is like a hound chasing after information. He doesn’t care what the information is as long as he has it. That is how he works: gathering facts and miscellaneous pieces of disconnected information – until some of it starts to fit together to form a picture – and in this case, the picture is sinister.
Along with the suspense and working my hardest alongside Andy and his team to solve the mysteries involved in each case, I enjoy the moments of humour that pop out when least expected. I also love hearing about the Tara Foundation and the care they take to match the dogs in their shelter with the right people. Reading about the home life that Andy and his young family (including the two dogs, Tara and Sebastian) enjoy together is a pleasure.
I also enjoy reading about Andy’s team – equal parts heart-stopping and funny. We have Edna, the self-appointed office manager who rarely shows up for work yet cashes her checks exactly on the day she receives them, and then there is Marcus – the silent hero who is like Andy’s secret shadow when the going gets rough. Hicks, Andy’s assistant lawyer who, as Andy says, not only isn’t a glass-half-full guy, but doesn’t believe the glass will ever be anything but empty, and Sam who rounds out the team. He is really Andy’s accountant but doubles as a superlative computer hacker. When Sam finds information Andy wants to use at trial, Hicks draws up the paperwork to subpoena the records through proper channels.
This story is both horrific and heart-warming, menacing and humourous. Above all, these novels are always charming, fast-paced, and well written. I look forward to staying in touch with all these characters long into the future.
January 16, 2024
3.5 stars
In this 18th book in the "Andy Carpenter" series, the defense attorney takes on the case of a homeless man accused of murder. The book can be read as a standalone.
*****
On the day before Thanksgiving Andy Carpenter is feeling especially appreciative. He's a rich defense attorney with a great wife and son, and tomorrow he'll be "gorging on great food and football." So when Andy sees a homeless man bundled in blankets, with a cute golden retriever mix beside him, the lawyer gives the man twenty bucks and a PetSmart gift card. The man, who's very articulate, thanks Andy on behalf of himself and his dog Zooey.
The next day, after Andy's family finish their Thanksgiving feast - turkey, candied yams, mashed potatoes, veggies, a spectacular corn crème brûlée, and dessert - Andy sees a news report about the homeless man.
Delicious corn crème brûlée
The unfortunate homeless man was attacked on the street the night before, but managed to fight off his assailant with the help of Zooey, who bit the offender. Now the intended victim is on television asking for his dog, who was taken to an animal shelter for ten days to check for rabies.
Encouraged by his wife Laurie and son Ricky, who are already celebrating Christmas - which lasts from Thanksgiving to February in Laurie's eyes - Andy decides to help the bereft man. Andy - who has connections -retrieves Zooey, collects her owner, and installs them both in a garage apartment at his New Jersey home. Zooey immediately makes friends with Andy's golden retriever Tara, and the new residents settle in.
The next day a newspaper publishes a human interest story about Andy's good deed and mentions the homeless man's name, Dan Carrigan. Almost immediately, the cops swarm Andy's house and arrest his guest. It seems Carrigan is wanted for the murder of wealthy businessman Steven McMaster, who was killed in his suburban home nine months ago, after which the house was ransacked. The cause of death was a broken neck, which points to a perpetrator trained in hand-to-hand combat.
Carrigan is suspected because he's a former Green Beret and Iraq war veteran; his DNA was found in an old hat at the crime scene; the victim's ring was found in his locker at a homeless shelter; and an informant claims he bragged about the crime.
Andy is prodded by his sympathetic wife Laurie - a former cop who's now a private investigator - and takes Carrigan's case.....along with temporary custody of the pooch Zooey, who's about to have puppies! 😃
Carrigan wants a very fast trial because he has PTSD and claustrophobia, and can't abide being locked up. So Andy quickly lines up his 'team', which consists of:
- Edna: Andy's self-appointed office manager who's allergic to work of any kind; when Andy asks her to xerox a stack of documents, he "hopes to get the copies before the judge sentences Carrigan."
- Sam: Andy's accountant, who's a computer genius that can hack into anything and everything. Almost before you finish asking for something, Sam replies,"I'm on it."
- Hike: Andy's gloomy law partner who "is not just glass half empty guy; he thinks the glass can never hope to be filled again."
- Marcus: a security expert who hardly speaks and is so big and tough even Andy is scared of him.
Meanwhile, other criminals are making waves in the region. A low-level mobster goes on the run after Carrigan is arrested, for reasons that aren't clear. And a skilled sniper is shooting people, one at a time. This makes residents in the area very nervous.
As Andy prepares for the Carrigan case, he does background investigations; obtains discovery; questions people; puts together theories of the crime (such as the wife did it); etc. When Andy finally goes to court to represent Carrigan, his questioning of witnesses - and witty repartee with the judge and prosecutor - lend a Perry Masonish vibe to the story (IF Mason was a stand-up comedian).
As the story races along, we learn more about the fleeing mobster, the relentless sniper, and McMaster's murder - and it becomes clear that a clever puppetmaster is pulling strings for nefarious purposes.
It's fun to see Andy schmooze with his wife; hang out with his son; walk Tara and Zooey; join his friends (a cop and a newspaperman) at a local pub; collaborate with his colleagues; get ready for Christmas; and so on. This is a fun and entertaining cozy mystery, perfect for the holiday season. Highly recommended.
Thanks to Netgalley, David Rosenfelt, and Minotaur Books for a copy of the book.
You can follow my reviews at https://reviewsbybarbsaffer.blogspot....
June 10, 2019
David Rosenfelt is my go to author when I need a break from heavy handed mysteries. His light, sarcastic style never fails to amuse. Luckily, light doesn’t mean simple or easily figured out mysteries. He also always does the legal procedure part of the books well. While the storylines may be over the top, the legs side of things is always realistic.
As always, I enjoy the complete cast of characters who now feel like old friends, even Marcus. I love that Andy has a happy home life, complete with wife, kid and dogs.
Grover Gardner is the perfect voice to embody Andy Carpenter.
Highly recommend this entire series for those that love Janet Evanovich, Nelson DeMille or Harlan Coben.
September 6, 2018
Seeing the cover of David Rosenfelt’s Christmas book is my annual warning the big day is within squinting distance (yikes!). Okay, okay…I can hear your howls of “too soon!”. Simmer down, you’ve got lots of time. Unless your last name is Carpenter & you live in Patterson, NJ.
Lapsed attorney Andy has wisely given up asking his family why it’s necessary to celebrate from November to February. Besides, they wouldn’t hear him over the continuous loop of Xmas carols. The best he can hope for is to avoid the perilous trimming of the tree while watching a kajillion football games uninterrupted. But this year he will face an even greater threat……he might actually have to go to work.
You know what they say about good deeds. It all begins when Andy gives money to a homeless man & his dog. In short order, the man (Don Carrigan) & the dog (Zoey) are living above his garage. Until Don is arrested for the murder of a wealthy businessman 9 months ago.
No problem. Andy assures Laurie he’ll get Don the best public defender in the biz & Zoey can shack up at the dog shelter with Willie. But it seems Laurie has taken a shine to Don. In fact, if Andy doesn’t take the case she might be so upset that the ONLY activity in their bedroom for the foreseeable future will be sleeping. Game. Set. Match.
Andy signs on. And it turns out Don has led an interesting life. In alternate chapters we’re kept up on seemingly unconnected current events. A former mob enforcer has an unhealthy obsession with Don & for good reason. A popular local attorney is taken out by a sniper & he won’t be the last. And Zoey has some news of her own.
Rosenfelt excels at story telling & each of these plot lines keeps you turning the pages to find out how they will inevitably weave together. As Andy reassembles his legal team, we get to spend time with characters fans have grown to love. Some show up with bells on (Sam), some drag their high heels (Edna) and some are unintelligible (Marcus). It’s the smart & humorous interplay between them added to a twisty & complex mystery that sets this series apart. The result is a story that puts your brain through its paces between the laughs. It doesn’t seem possible this is book #18 but as long as Mr. Rosenfelt keeps writing, I’ll keep reading.
Lapsed attorney Andy has wisely given up asking his family why it’s necessary to celebrate from November to February. Besides, they wouldn’t hear him over the continuous loop of Xmas carols. The best he can hope for is to avoid the perilous trimming of the tree while watching a kajillion football games uninterrupted. But this year he will face an even greater threat……he might actually have to go to work.
You know what they say about good deeds. It all begins when Andy gives money to a homeless man & his dog. In short order, the man (Don Carrigan) & the dog (Zoey) are living above his garage. Until Don is arrested for the murder of a wealthy businessman 9 months ago.
No problem. Andy assures Laurie he’ll get Don the best public defender in the biz & Zoey can shack up at the dog shelter with Willie. But it seems Laurie has taken a shine to Don. In fact, if Andy doesn’t take the case she might be so upset that the ONLY activity in their bedroom for the foreseeable future will be sleeping. Game. Set. Match.
Andy signs on. And it turns out Don has led an interesting life. In alternate chapters we’re kept up on seemingly unconnected current events. A former mob enforcer has an unhealthy obsession with Don & for good reason. A popular local attorney is taken out by a sniper & he won’t be the last. And Zoey has some news of her own.
Rosenfelt excels at story telling & each of these plot lines keeps you turning the pages to find out how they will inevitably weave together. As Andy reassembles his legal team, we get to spend time with characters fans have grown to love. Some show up with bells on (Sam), some drag their high heels (Edna) and some are unintelligible (Marcus). It’s the smart & humorous interplay between them added to a twisty & complex mystery that sets this series apart. The result is a story that puts your brain through its paces between the laughs. It doesn’t seem possible this is book #18 but as long as Mr. Rosenfelt keeps writing, I’ll keep reading.
October 21, 2018
I can always count on David Rosenfelt to provide me with an Andy Carpenter book that’s interesting and humorous with a serious legal story and at least one dog. This is just what I needed right now. The characters became old friends long ago. The legal case involves a homeless vet and his dog, Zoey. Although a bit formulaic, I continue to enjoy this series. If you’re already a fan, you won’t be disappointed. If you’ve never read a David Rosenfelt book, you can start with this one.
November 23, 2024
Apparently, this was my first book read and reviewed for the year 2023!
Of course!
This series is my go to place when I need a break from heavy handed mysteries. The author employs a light, sarcastic style which never fails to amuse me.
Luckily...For me, light doesn’t mean simple or easily figured out mysteries. He also always does the legal procedure part of the books well.
And...While the storylines may be over the top, the meat of the story is typically realistic and believable.
And of course...Since last night was New Years Eve, and I am not a party girl (were you thinking otherwise?!), this seemed like a perfect end of the year “holiday story” to read after I finished my other book, which I reviewed earlier.
As always...I enjoy the complete cast of characters who now feel like old friends, even Marcus. I love that Andy has a happy home life, complete with wife, kid and dogs. And of course, the case!
Of course!
This series is my go to place when I need a break from heavy handed mysteries. The author employs a light, sarcastic style which never fails to amuse me.
Luckily...For me, light doesn’t mean simple or easily figured out mysteries. He also always does the legal procedure part of the books well.
And...While the storylines may be over the top, the meat of the story is typically realistic and believable.
And of course...Since last night was New Years Eve, and I am not a party girl (were you thinking otherwise?!), this seemed like a perfect end of the year “holiday story” to read after I finished my other book, which I reviewed earlier.
As always...I enjoy the complete cast of characters who now feel like old friends, even Marcus. I love that Andy has a happy home life, complete with wife, kid and dogs. And of course, the case!
October 11, 2018
“Deck the Hounds” by David Rosenfelt is not a sappy holiday story with Andy Carpenter listening to carolers and chasing fake Santas; neither are the dogs dressed up in Santa outfits, but it is a cute cover. The book just happens to start out in November. It is Thanksgiving in Patterson New Jersey, and it is not a time to be out on the street and certainly not with a dog.
Regular readers just love Andy carpenter for all the things he is and does. New readers can jump right because Rosenfelt seamlessly incorporates any needed background information into the current the tale or tail depending on whether or not you are one of Andy’s dogs.
Every time Andy runs into a destitute person looking for money, he gives him or her twenty dollars. The current situation is even more heartbreaking for Andy because this homeless person has a dog and needs legal help. Andy is not just reluctant to take on a homeless person as a client, he never wants any clients. He has been trying to retire for years, but he just cannot seem to pull it off. However, because it’s Christmas, Andy takes the case. The whole team is there to assist including Hike, Lynch, Sam, Willie, Edna, Marcus, Vince, Pete, and of course Laurie and Ricky.
Andy Carpenter, doer of good deeds, tells most of the story in his signature first-person style that conveys positions, scenarios, and observations as only he can. Rosenfelt expertly uses alternating points of view to intertwine other storylines and to present information that Andy does not yet know. The chapters are structured so that the story flows easily from one chapter to the next with the first sentence pulling readers into the chapter and the last sentence dangling a little tidbit for later. The pace is consistent, alternating between crime and dog walks, sports and criminals, and conversations and eating. As the body count increases, so do the unanswered questions; it is New Jersey after all. “Too bad the list of things we don’t know is longer.”
There is also a lot of Andy humor intermingled along the way.
I received a copy of “Deck the Hounds” from David Rosenfelt, St. Martin’s Press, Minotaur Books, and NetGalley. I love Andy Carpenter books, as do readers everywhere, because in the end, everyone lives happily ever after with their dogs.
Regular readers just love Andy carpenter for all the things he is and does. New readers can jump right because Rosenfelt seamlessly incorporates any needed background information into the current the tale or tail depending on whether or not you are one of Andy’s dogs.
Every time Andy runs into a destitute person looking for money, he gives him or her twenty dollars. The current situation is even more heartbreaking for Andy because this homeless person has a dog and needs legal help. Andy is not just reluctant to take on a homeless person as a client, he never wants any clients. He has been trying to retire for years, but he just cannot seem to pull it off. However, because it’s Christmas, Andy takes the case. The whole team is there to assist including Hike, Lynch, Sam, Willie, Edna, Marcus, Vince, Pete, and of course Laurie and Ricky.
Andy Carpenter, doer of good deeds, tells most of the story in his signature first-person style that conveys positions, scenarios, and observations as only he can. Rosenfelt expertly uses alternating points of view to intertwine other storylines and to present information that Andy does not yet know. The chapters are structured so that the story flows easily from one chapter to the next with the first sentence pulling readers into the chapter and the last sentence dangling a little tidbit for later. The pace is consistent, alternating between crime and dog walks, sports and criminals, and conversations and eating. As the body count increases, so do the unanswered questions; it is New Jersey after all. “Too bad the list of things we don’t know is longer.”
There is also a lot of Andy humor intermingled along the way.
“I’m going to have a cup of coffee while she makes herself some kind of healthy shake, composed of every revolting green vegetable known to humanity. She also adds some kind of powder, which I have to assume is a crushed and dried version of a revolting vegetable.”Rosenfelt excels at storytelling, and each of the plot lines goes to unanticipated places with deviations that keep readers turning the pages. Ultimately, good triumphs evil, not a surprise there, but the details are complicated and unexpected. As always, at the celebration party assorted secrets come out as Andy fills in gaps that participants (and readers) missed.
I received a copy of “Deck the Hounds” from David Rosenfelt, St. Martin’s Press, Minotaur Books, and NetGalley. I love Andy Carpenter books, as do readers everywhere, because in the end, everyone lives happily ever after with their dogs.
December 8, 2019
This 18th entry in the Andy Carpenter series made for a delightful holiday read, since it features some of my favorite things: dogs, Christmas, a lawyer/detective with a happy home life, humor, a solid mystery plot, and a surprise twist at the end. I see I'm way behind in this series, so I want to catch up on all the earlier books that I've missed.
October 17, 2018
I have never given a Andy Carpenter book a one star and I actually think the story of this book is probably a 4 star. But I can't get past a character that was dead not only is he alive in this book but his head that was blown apart was put back together as well. That dropped this book down to a one start. In the same book that Dominick Patrone was finally arrested he put a hit out on Andy, Joseph Russo wouldn't do it and was trying to turn states evidence against Dominick. As Joseph was talking to Andy in Andy's house he was shot in the head through the window. Willie was sad saying something about he knew he was a bad guy but still a friend. But in this book Joseph Russo obviously was risen from the dead and is alive and well now running the Patron family. The previous book which I never update to actually give my review I notices so many continuity mistakes it was driving me nuts but this one took the cake for me.
December 21, 2019
I am really enjoying Andy Carpenter and his wife, Laurie. I'm going to start this series from the beginning because of these two.
This is a light, heartwarming and fun story with a couple who root for the underdog and do their best to make the world a warmer place.
This is a light, heartwarming and fun story with a couple who root for the underdog and do their best to make the world a warmer place.
July 8, 2019
In Deck the Hounds Mr. Rosenfelt combines his usual charming story with a compassionate look at the plight of veterans suffering from PTSD. I really, really liked the character of Don Carrigan! How I would love to see him become a part of Andy Carpenter's team. I hope Andy NEVER stops being dragged out from retirement. His commitment to innocent people and animals makes him one of the nicest lawyers to root for!!!
December 11, 2021
CZY TA OKŁADA PASUJE DO KRYMINAŁU? Byłam przekonana, że to książka dziecięca, a wyszło coś takiego.
Nie jestem w stanie stwierdzić docelowej grupy wiekowej, więc nie wiem z której strony mam na to patrzeć. Ta pozycja niesamowicie mnie irytowała, dużo niepotrzebnych dialogów i dopowiedzeń. Sama sprawa kryminalna jest beznadziejna.
Nie jestem w stanie stwierdzić docelowej grupy wiekowej, więc nie wiem z której strony mam na to patrzeć. Ta pozycja niesamowicie mnie irytowała, dużo niepotrzebnych dialogów i dopowiedzeń. Sama sprawa kryminalna jest beznadziejna.
September 22, 2022
It's Christmas, so at the behest of his family, Carpenter takes in a homeless veteran.
Soon enough, he's hauled in for murder, and Carpenter is on the case. The solution is a bit out there, but not completely implausible.
Soon enough, he's hauled in for murder, and Carpenter is on the case. The solution is a bit out there, but not completely implausible.
December 8, 2018
First Sentence: I've come up with a solution to the homeless problem.
Semi-retired attorney Andy Carpenter can never pass up a dog, especially when it's the companion of a homeless man. The dog, Zoey, bites a man in defense of an attack on his owner, and the dog is quarantined. Laurie, Andy's former-cop wife, decides they should help by taking Zoey into their kennels and his owner, Don Carrigan into the apartment over their garage. When Andy accidentally mentions Don's name in an interview, they learn that he is wanted for a murder from two years ago, of which Don has no knowledge. It's up to Andy to prove Don innocent.
Rosenfelt created an opening which not only touches the heart but makes one wish to be in a position to commit similar acts. However, it may also cause one to search the internet for corn crème brûlee recipes. The short summary of Laurie's background is just enough. Andy's friends and co-workers are a diverse and interesting group who appear throughout the series, although one can become a bit annoyed with a couple of them over time. Carrigan, however, is a character who reminds one not to make assumptions about people based on their appearance or their situation. That is very well done.
We start off with a mild story. Then the switch flips and the risk factor becomes higher. However, an element Rosenfelt uses, often to lighten the mood, is Andy's internal narrative—"The door is opened by a woman who is clearly some kind of housekeeper/maid. She is wearing a sort of uniform, mostly white with some dark blue trim. The skirt looks like one enormous doily; I shudder to think how many normal-sized doilies were killed in the making of that garment."
Rosenfelt's plots remind one of complex Venn diagrams with numerous overlapping circles. What's nice is how well it all works, and the overlaps never feel like coincidences. That Andy isn't one's usual macho protagonist is a refreshing change. That Marcus, the muscle, works with Andy's wife Laurie is even better. As the chain of evidence builds, the center of the diagram becomes clear. Even the identity of the killer is a very effective twist.
Following the trial is always interesting. Rosenfelt clearly explains the process along the way, including what can, and cannot, be done. At the same time, there is a nice balance between the case and Andy's home and family life, which makes the characters more real.
"Deck the Hounds" has plenty of bodies and a very twisty plot which is anything but boring. One will appreciate that the author doesn't do the expected or go for the easy solution.
DECK THE HOUNDS (LegMys-Andy Carpenter-New Jersey -Contemp) – G+
Rosenfelt, David – 18th in series
Minotaur Books – Oct 2018
Semi-retired attorney Andy Carpenter can never pass up a dog, especially when it's the companion of a homeless man. The dog, Zoey, bites a man in defense of an attack on his owner, and the dog is quarantined. Laurie, Andy's former-cop wife, decides they should help by taking Zoey into their kennels and his owner, Don Carrigan into the apartment over their garage. When Andy accidentally mentions Don's name in an interview, they learn that he is wanted for a murder from two years ago, of which Don has no knowledge. It's up to Andy to prove Don innocent.
Rosenfelt created an opening which not only touches the heart but makes one wish to be in a position to commit similar acts. However, it may also cause one to search the internet for corn crème brûlee recipes. The short summary of Laurie's background is just enough. Andy's friends and co-workers are a diverse and interesting group who appear throughout the series, although one can become a bit annoyed with a couple of them over time. Carrigan, however, is a character who reminds one not to make assumptions about people based on their appearance or their situation. That is very well done.
We start off with a mild story. Then the switch flips and the risk factor becomes higher. However, an element Rosenfelt uses, often to lighten the mood, is Andy's internal narrative—"The door is opened by a woman who is clearly some kind of housekeeper/maid. She is wearing a sort of uniform, mostly white with some dark blue trim. The skirt looks like one enormous doily; I shudder to think how many normal-sized doilies were killed in the making of that garment."
Rosenfelt's plots remind one of complex Venn diagrams with numerous overlapping circles. What's nice is how well it all works, and the overlaps never feel like coincidences. That Andy isn't one's usual macho protagonist is a refreshing change. That Marcus, the muscle, works with Andy's wife Laurie is even better. As the chain of evidence builds, the center of the diagram becomes clear. Even the identity of the killer is a very effective twist.
Following the trial is always interesting. Rosenfelt clearly explains the process along the way, including what can, and cannot, be done. At the same time, there is a nice balance between the case and Andy's home and family life, which makes the characters more real.
"Deck the Hounds" has plenty of bodies and a very twisty plot which is anything but boring. One will appreciate that the author doesn't do the expected or go for the easy solution.
DECK THE HOUNDS (LegMys-Andy Carpenter-New Jersey -Contemp) – G+
Rosenfelt, David – 18th in series
Minotaur Books – Oct 2018
October 11, 2025
This is a Christmas Legal Mystery, and this is the 18th book in the Andy Carpenter series. I love the characters in this book series. I love the mystery in this book, and this book has a lot of suspense and action. There was a lot of cute dogs parts in this book. I really enjoyed this book.
July 9, 2025
I don’t normally read Christmas themed books in July… but this was the next in the Andy Carpenter series. I haven’t read one of these in a while, and it sure was fun to return. And Grove Gardner continues to perfect his character Andy, and to shine in his narration!
Andy’s wife Laurie believes in the Christmas spirit, and an extended Christmas season. So when Andy encounters a homeless man that’s been attacked, she insists he and his dog stay in their garage apartment. However, things go astray when the man is arrested for murder, and Andy is persuaded to defend him. The investigation and trial are entertaining as always, with a mix of new and old characters. Lots of fun!
Andy’s wife Laurie believes in the Christmas spirit, and an extended Christmas season. So when Andy encounters a homeless man that’s been attacked, she insists he and his dog stay in their garage apartment. However, things go astray when the man is arrested for murder, and Andy is persuaded to defend him. The investigation and trial are entertaining as always, with a mix of new and old characters. Lots of fun!
December 26, 2020
4.5- ogólnie był to bardzo przyjemny kryminał, szybko bo przeczytałam. Co prawda niestety było za mało psa raczej suczki, był to bohater drugo A nawet trzecio planowy. Było też trochę dużo bohaterów i można się było pogubić. Jednak biorąc pod uwagę całokształt było na prawdę fajnie 🙃
May 16, 2023
Pretty much the usual Andy Carpenter book. No surprises, just a fun read with an interesting story, interesting people, and a happy ending. This isn't a spoiler, because it's pretty much the standard formula for this series.
December 4, 2019
What a surprising read, this turned out to be. I absolutely loved this book. Anyone, who hands out 50 dollar PetSmart gift cards, to anyone he sees, with a dog in their life. Is someone I want to know. Andy Carpenter, is a hilarious and caring character. David Rosenfelt, is very good at giving Andy a voice.
This is my first read by David Rosenfelt, I really enjoyed his writing style. The mystery story held my attention through out the whole story and had me still trying to figure it out, until the very end.
I'm so looking forward to starting this series from the beginning, and seeing how Andy develops over the earlier books in this series.
This is my first read by David Rosenfelt, I really enjoyed his writing style. The mystery story held my attention through out the whole story and had me still trying to figure it out, until the very end.
I'm so looking forward to starting this series from the beginning, and seeing how Andy develops over the earlier books in this series.
September 1, 2018
3.5 stars rounded up to 4. Thanks to NetGalley and St. Martin’s Press for an advanced copy of this book. I had previously read a couple books in the Andy Carpenter series by David Rosenfelt and was delighted to receive this one. Who could resist the delightful cover art showing a pile of puppies wearing Santa hats?
This looks like a cosy, relaxing mystery. Instead we get a complicated legal thriller, with many twists and turns and sardonic humor. The Andy Carpenter series always features at least one dog. Carpenter is a wealthy retired attorney who cannot resist a case involving dogs. His mission is to rescue dogs and their owners from possible death sentences or lengthy time locked up. He is a happy family man with a sarcastic sense of humor. Andy and his wife own the Tara dog rescue centre.
The series parallels the author’s life and interests. Rosenfelt and his wife started the real Tara Foundation and have rescued over 4,000 dogs. One of his books chronicles their adventure moving from California to Maine with 25 dogs.. it is no wonder his books reflect his love of these animals.
The story begins when Andy encounters a homeless man and his dog. Soon the homeless man is attacked by an unknown subject, and uses force to defend himself against the assault. His dog bites the assailant. The dog is removed from his care and put in quarantine and may be destroyed. The homeless man is devastated by the loss of his dog. In the spirit of Christmas season, Andy’s family has the dog released and both he and his master are moved into an apartment above the family garage.
Publicity resulting from the attack identifies the man as Don Carrigan, a former Green Beret with PTSD. He is wanted for the murder of a very wealthy man two years earlier. There is DNA evidence that he is guilty. Andy visits Carrigan in prison and believes him innocent. Carrigan denies knowing the murdered man and had no idea he was wanted by the police. He learns his dog is well cared for and is expecting puppies.
The legal investigation is most complex but believable. It involves mercenaries trained killing by deadly force in hand to hand combat and sharp shooters, the mob and its enforcers, the staff at a homeless shelter, police, members of the legal prosecution, the defence, and their witnesses and the widow of the wealthy murdered man, among others. With so many characters I had difficulty keeping all their names straight. A list of characters both living and dead along with a sentence summarizing their role in the story would be helpful.
Recommended for readers who enjoy legal dramas and dog rescue stories.
This looks like a cosy, relaxing mystery. Instead we get a complicated legal thriller, with many twists and turns and sardonic humor. The Andy Carpenter series always features at least one dog. Carpenter is a wealthy retired attorney who cannot resist a case involving dogs. His mission is to rescue dogs and their owners from possible death sentences or lengthy time locked up. He is a happy family man with a sarcastic sense of humor. Andy and his wife own the Tara dog rescue centre.
The series parallels the author’s life and interests. Rosenfelt and his wife started the real Tara Foundation and have rescued over 4,000 dogs. One of his books chronicles their adventure moving from California to Maine with 25 dogs.. it is no wonder his books reflect his love of these animals.
The story begins when Andy encounters a homeless man and his dog. Soon the homeless man is attacked by an unknown subject, and uses force to defend himself against the assault. His dog bites the assailant. The dog is removed from his care and put in quarantine and may be destroyed. The homeless man is devastated by the loss of his dog. In the spirit of Christmas season, Andy’s family has the dog released and both he and his master are moved into an apartment above the family garage.
Publicity resulting from the attack identifies the man as Don Carrigan, a former Green Beret with PTSD. He is wanted for the murder of a very wealthy man two years earlier. There is DNA evidence that he is guilty. Andy visits Carrigan in prison and believes him innocent. Carrigan denies knowing the murdered man and had no idea he was wanted by the police. He learns his dog is well cared for and is expecting puppies.
The legal investigation is most complex but believable. It involves mercenaries trained killing by deadly force in hand to hand combat and sharp shooters, the mob and its enforcers, the staff at a homeless shelter, police, members of the legal prosecution, the defence, and their witnesses and the widow of the wealthy murdered man, among others. With so many characters I had difficulty keeping all their names straight. A list of characters both living and dead along with a sentence summarizing their role in the story would be helpful.
Recommended for readers who enjoy legal dramas and dog rescue stories.
October 17, 2018
On the way home from his office, Andy Carpenter, semi-retired lawyer and full-time dog lover, runs across a homeless vet and his dog, Zoey. He shares a few words with the man as he gives a donation and is impressed by him. A couple of days later, he reads that the homeless vet, Dan Carrigan, was attacked and, to protect him, Zoey bit the attacker. Now, she is in quarantine. Andy convinces the shelter to let him keep her during the quarantine period and invites Dan to move into his garage loft so that the pair can stay together. When the media gets hold of the story, they print it as a nice feel-good holiday tale and include Dan's name. But turns out the police have been looking for Dan as a prime suspect in a murder and he is arrested. Andy is convinced that he is innocent and, since those are the only kinds of clients he will take, he decides he will defend him. But it becomes clear pretty quickly that what had looked like an easy case was anything but and Andy may be in a whole lot more trouble than he could have ever anticipated.
Deck the Hounds by author David Rosenfelt is the latest installment in the Andy Carpenter Mystery series but it was the first I have read. I can say, though, it won't be the last. It is a fast fun read with an interesting plot and characters. Andy, especially is an extremely likeable protagonist with a wonderfully understated and self-deprecating sense of humour that I could fully appreciate. This is definitely my favourite of all the cosy mysteries I have read this year and recommend it highly to anyone who is a fan of cosies or is looking for a book to fill the Christmas stocking of their favourite cosy aficionado.
Thanks to Netgalley and St Martin's Press for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review
Deck the Hounds by author David Rosenfelt is the latest installment in the Andy Carpenter Mystery series but it was the first I have read. I can say, though, it won't be the last. It is a fast fun read with an interesting plot and characters. Andy, especially is an extremely likeable protagonist with a wonderfully understated and self-deprecating sense of humour that I could fully appreciate. This is definitely my favourite of all the cosy mysteries I have read this year and recommend it highly to anyone who is a fan of cosies or is looking for a book to fill the Christmas stocking of their favourite cosy aficionado.
Thanks to Netgalley and St Martin's Press for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review
November 14, 2018
Deck the Hounds by David Rosenfelt. Narrated bu Grover Gardner.
Andy Carpenter, like many of us, comes across a homeless man with a dog as his only companion. This homeless man is Don Carrigan and Andy soon discovers is highly educated as well as a veteran.
Don is attacked one night and Zoey, his dog, bites the assailant causing him to flee the scene.
Andy's wife, Laurie, has a soft heart for this man's situation and allows him to move into the living quarters above their garage.
Andy, quite by accident, mentions don;'s name while being interviewed. That's when all hell breaks loose as Don has been named as the perpetrator in a murder that occurred two years ago. Don, on the other hand, is dumbfounded by this news. He has no recollection of that event whatsoever. That doesn't prevent the authorities from locking him up and separating him from Zoey. Soon Andy, who believes Don to be 100% innocent, takes on a new client and welcomes Zoey into his home. Their is one stipulation...that andy never uses P.T.S.D. as his defense.
I've enjoyed the Andy Carpenter series and find myself lol with the sense of humor in Andy's thinking and his character. Grover Gardner is excellent as the narrator and in bringing the author's words to life as Andy.
Andy Carpenter, like many of us, comes across a homeless man with a dog as his only companion. This homeless man is Don Carrigan and Andy soon discovers is highly educated as well as a veteran.
Don is attacked one night and Zoey, his dog, bites the assailant causing him to flee the scene.
Andy's wife, Laurie, has a soft heart for this man's situation and allows him to move into the living quarters above their garage.
Andy, quite by accident, mentions don;'s name while being interviewed. That's when all hell breaks loose as Don has been named as the perpetrator in a murder that occurred two years ago. Don, on the other hand, is dumbfounded by this news. He has no recollection of that event whatsoever. That doesn't prevent the authorities from locking him up and separating him from Zoey. Soon Andy, who believes Don to be 100% innocent, takes on a new client and welcomes Zoey into his home. Their is one stipulation...that andy never uses P.T.S.D. as his defense.
I've enjoyed the Andy Carpenter series and find myself lol with the sense of humor in Andy's thinking and his character. Grover Gardner is excellent as the narrator and in bringing the author's words to life as Andy.
October 26, 2018
Another fun Andy Carpenter book sets around the holiday. This time Andy helps a homeless man and his dog. As it turns out Andy also helped the police catches a fugitive, the very same homeless man which he then defends of criminal charges. Good plot, funny dialogs and characters.
June 18, 2021
This was a good one - no conspiracy with terrorists! Andy calmly and cooly saves the day.
The Dan mystery is solved! Belle suggested I email David to see the significance of the name being used over and over, book after book - so I did! He answered saying he didn’t realize he did that - he wasn’t honoring anyone. Then I hit page 123 and up popped the inevitable Danny. He said I’d also find the name one more time in Dog Eat Dog and then he’d stop using it.
I wanted him to name Zoey’s puppy Danny Boy, but since she is female, how about Dani Girl?
The Dan mystery is solved! Belle suggested I email David to see the significance of the name being used over and over, book after book - so I did! He answered saying he didn’t realize he did that - he wasn’t honoring anyone. Then I hit page 123 and up popped the inevitable Danny. He said I’d also find the name one more time in Dog Eat Dog and then he’d stop using it.
I wanted him to name Zoey’s puppy Danny Boy, but since she is female, how about Dani Girl?
October 4, 2020
Absolutely loved this one. I've never read this series before, so this was my entry point and I can say emphatically that it wasn't a challenge to orient myself in the series. Any mentions to prior events was explained and the characters are so well developed,it's easy to dive in and make yourself comfortable.
Andy Carpenter is a successful lawyer who has been trying to retire for years, but keeps getting involved with representing people thanks largely to his wife, Laurie, a former cop and current private investigator. Andy is an all around good guy and having earned enough money to be comfortable, has no objection to making donations to others. On one wintery day, he gives some money to a homeless man and his dog. The next day, he learns that the man was attacked and his dog bit the perpetrator. Laurie, full of Christmas spirit, sends Andy to offer the man the apartment above their garage. When the media gets hold of the story and Andy lets the homeless man's name slip, police show up. The homeless man, Don Carrigan,a retired Green Beret with PTSD, was wanted for a homicide. Laurie, full of Christmas cheer, urges Andy to take on the case, and as the facts become known, Andy realizes there's a whole lot going on and Carrigan is being framed.
I love the characters; Andy is a smartass lawyer but deeply committed to his family and to clearing wrongfully accused people. Laurie is a tough ex-cop with a sweet spot for the underdog. The rest of Andy's team are a motley crew of equally dedicated and quirky people.
The plot was well paced and full of surprises; everything was investigated and uncovered methodically (if a bit unconventially at times) but it gave the feeling of being led through the entire process by a wiseacre tour guide and there were a lot of chuckles as I read. Don Carrigan, the man that was being framed, was easy to empathize with and kept me rooting for Andy to win the case. I also appreciated how it highlighted the issues of PTSD, its effects and how it contributes to homelessness without being preachy or overbearing, very sensitively handled.
This is definitely a series I'll be going back and reading from the beginning, and if the other books are this good, it'll definitely be on my must read list.
Andy Carpenter is a successful lawyer who has been trying to retire for years, but keeps getting involved with representing people thanks largely to his wife, Laurie, a former cop and current private investigator. Andy is an all around good guy and having earned enough money to be comfortable, has no objection to making donations to others. On one wintery day, he gives some money to a homeless man and his dog. The next day, he learns that the man was attacked and his dog bit the perpetrator. Laurie, full of Christmas spirit, sends Andy to offer the man the apartment above their garage. When the media gets hold of the story and Andy lets the homeless man's name slip, police show up. The homeless man, Don Carrigan,a retired Green Beret with PTSD, was wanted for a homicide. Laurie, full of Christmas cheer, urges Andy to take on the case, and as the facts become known, Andy realizes there's a whole lot going on and Carrigan is being framed.
I love the characters; Andy is a smartass lawyer but deeply committed to his family and to clearing wrongfully accused people. Laurie is a tough ex-cop with a sweet spot for the underdog. The rest of Andy's team are a motley crew of equally dedicated and quirky people.
The plot was well paced and full of surprises; everything was investigated and uncovered methodically (if a bit unconventially at times) but it gave the feeling of being led through the entire process by a wiseacre tour guide and there were a lot of chuckles as I read. Don Carrigan, the man that was being framed, was easy to empathize with and kept me rooting for Andy to win the case. I also appreciated how it highlighted the issues of PTSD, its effects and how it contributes to homelessness without being preachy or overbearing, very sensitively handled.
This is definitely a series I'll be going back and reading from the beginning, and if the other books are this good, it'll definitely be on my must read list.
November 3, 2018
Author David Rosenfelt’s Andy Carpenter series is in a class by itself. The books have some aspects of a cozy, in that the reader is treated to seeing the personal lives of Andy and his family. They certainly are something of a thriller, with fast-paced action. And they are liberally dosed with humor throughout. Each book in the series is wonderful, yet Rosenfelt manages to make the next book even better than the last. In this installment, Andy feels compelled to represent a homeless man accused of murder. Maybe it was the homeless man’s dog that sealed the deal for Andy, but once convinced of the man’s innocence, he digs into the case. It’s a complicated case, and it’s Christmas, so one day Andy and Ricky are cutting down a tree while Laurie films their effort, and the next day Marcus is saving Andy’s life - again. Well-developed characters in an complex and intriguing plot set during Christmas season, and with dogs, well, if only a cat were added into the mix, this story would be perfect.
November 21, 2022
Laurie likes long Christmases. Hers (and therefore Andy & Ricky’s) goes to the end of January :)
Lots of murders in this tale .. nothing new for an Andy Carpenter story .. though not gratuitous violence.
Two major crime plot lines that don’t come together until the very end for this reader.
Reread Nov. 20, 2022. Still a 5 star.
Andy @ his wise-cracking best .. but whoosh that is one complicated plot !!
Lots of murders in this tale .. nothing new for an Andy Carpenter story .. though not gratuitous violence.
Two major crime plot lines that don’t come together until the very end for this reader.
Reread Nov. 20, 2022. Still a 5 star.
Andy @ his wise-cracking best .. but whoosh that is one complicated plot !!
May 12, 2019
Another fun addition to the series. Pretty much the same as all the rest, only the names have changed. The mystery might have been a little more complex than some others. It's great, if you like the formula & characters - a cozy mystery that requires no thought at all.
December 21, 2024
good enough for me
November 16, 2020
It is the Christmas season which Andy's wife Laurie celebrates from the end of Thanksgiving dinner to the end of January. Andy gets involved in his next case after giving a homeless man living on the street a $20 bill and a PetSmart gift card for his dog. The next thing he knows one of his friends who runs a shelter has the dog and the man is sleeping outside the dog's cage. It seems that when the man was attacked, his dog bit the assailant. The Christmas Spirit convinces Andy to take the man and dog to his garage apartment.
Don Carrigan is an Iraq war vet who has PTSD and claustrophobia. He lives on the street because he can't stand being indoors. He just recently adopted his dog Zoey who is soon to become a mother. An feel-good story in the newspaper has an unexpected consequence. Don is arrested and charged with murder.
Don is accused of killing Steven McMaster who is a wealthy grocery distributor based on the way he died, a hot with hair matched by DNA to Don, and a custom ring found in Don's locker at a local soup kitchen. Don claims that he doesn't know McMaster and certainly had no reason to kill him. Andy gathers his team and begins to look into this collection of circumstantial evidence.
Meanwhile, there are other deaths that don't seem connected to McMaster's but some do connect to Don. The man who attacked him - identified by DNA that was never matched at the scene - is a victim. So are a lawyer, ex-wife, former boyfriend and judge connected to a divorce some time earlier.
Andy uses his customary wit and cleverness to find his way to the truth in this engaging holiday mystery for dog lovers and other fans of the series.
Don Carrigan is an Iraq war vet who has PTSD and claustrophobia. He lives on the street because he can't stand being indoors. He just recently adopted his dog Zoey who is soon to become a mother. An feel-good story in the newspaper has an unexpected consequence. Don is arrested and charged with murder.
Don is accused of killing Steven McMaster who is a wealthy grocery distributor based on the way he died, a hot with hair matched by DNA to Don, and a custom ring found in Don's locker at a local soup kitchen. Don claims that he doesn't know McMaster and certainly had no reason to kill him. Andy gathers his team and begins to look into this collection of circumstantial evidence.
Meanwhile, there are other deaths that don't seem connected to McMaster's but some do connect to Don. The man who attacked him - identified by DNA that was never matched at the scene - is a victim. So are a lawyer, ex-wife, former boyfriend and judge connected to a divorce some time earlier.
Andy uses his customary wit and cleverness to find his way to the truth in this engaging holiday mystery for dog lovers and other fans of the series.
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