What do you think?
Rate this book
Chet and Bernie Mystery #2
Thereby Hangs a Tail
In the irresistible second installment of the New York Times bestselling Chet and Bernie mystery series, which has been hailed as “enchanting [and] one-of-a-kind” (Stephen King), Chet gets a glimpse of the show dog world turned deadly.
What first seems like a walk in the park to wise and lovable canine narrator Chet and his human companion Bernie—to investigate threats made against a pretty, pampered show dog—turns into a serious case when Princess and her owner are abducted. To make matters worse, Bernie’s on-again, off-again girlfriend, reporter Susie Sanchez, disappears too. When Chet is separated from Bernie, he’s on his own to put the pieces together, find his way home, and save the day. Spencer Quinn’s “brilliantly original” ( Richmond Times-Dispatch ) and “masterful” ( Los Angeles Times ) series combines genuine suspense and intrigue with humor and insight for a tail-wagging good time readers won’t soon forget.
What first seems like a walk in the park to wise and lovable canine narrator Chet and his human companion Bernie—to investigate threats made against a pretty, pampered show dog—turns into a serious case when Princess and her owner are abducted. To make matters worse, Bernie’s on-again, off-again girlfriend, reporter Susie Sanchez, disappears too. When Chet is separated from Bernie, he’s on his own to put the pieces together, find his way home, and save the day. Spencer Quinn’s “brilliantly original” ( Richmond Times-Dispatch ) and “masterful” ( Los Angeles Times ) series combines genuine suspense and intrigue with humor and insight for a tail-wagging good time readers won’t soon forget.
309 pages, Paperback
First published December 14, 2009
760 people are currently reading
2852 people want to read
About the author
Spencer Quinn
43 books2,118 followersSpencer Quinn lives on Cape Cod with his dog Audrey, and is hard at work on the next Chet and Bernie adventure.
Spencer Quinn is a pseudonym of author Peter Abrahams.
Series:
* A Chet and Bernie Mystery
Spencer Quinn is a pseudonym of author Peter Abrahams.
Series:
* A Chet and Bernie Mystery
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,373 reviews
September 8, 2017
Is it possible to be too inside of a dog’s head? For one micro-nano-millisecond I did think that. But then I snapped out of it, slapped myself for even thinking such a thing, grabbed a cookie (cause I’m pretty certain it was the low blood sugar talking), and fell back into this romp of a case following Chet’s lead. Who is Chet you ask? He’s the dog in this scenario. Super-sleuth. A less fictional Scooby-doo with all the humor and none of the goofiness. Wait, strike that last part. Some of the goofiness. Eats much like Scooby: Biscuits, Crullers, Slim Jims, and the for the first time - a bear-claw. Yummy. What dog wouldn’t if given half the chance? But at his base, he is one very smart dog. The perfect sidekick for his owner/partner Bernie, whom he would protect (and does) with his life. Cause he loves him. That’s what dogs do.
This would be my second mystery-adventure with Chet and Bernie (thank you Liz!). It’s been well over a year since I read the first of the series “Dog On It”, and darn it until I started reading this one, I hadn’t realized how much missed these guys. As #2 begins, Bernie decides to take a one-time only bodyguard position (protecting Princess, a dog show diva, and her owner), cause he and Chet fit the bill, and hey, they need the money. But Chet makes a little blunder at the get-go (a little oops involving a bacon bit…Princess’s bacon bit…so tasty, can you blame him?!). And just like that our duo is out of a job ----- until Princess and Adelina go missing. Then we’re off to the races in this second adventure as the real case - and the fun – begins.
This would be my second mystery-adventure with Chet and Bernie (thank you Liz!). It’s been well over a year since I read the first of the series “Dog On It”, and darn it until I started reading this one, I hadn’t realized how much missed these guys. As #2 begins, Bernie decides to take a one-time only bodyguard position (protecting Princess, a dog show diva, and her owner), cause he and Chet fit the bill, and hey, they need the money. But Chet makes a little blunder at the get-go (a little oops involving a bacon bit…Princess’s bacon bit…so tasty, can you blame him?!). And just like that our duo is out of a job ----- until Princess and Adelina go missing. Then we’re off to the races in this second adventure as the real case - and the fun – begins.
September 30, 2023
Chet is a good boy! And a good partner for Bernie. Always ready to take his place in the shotgun seat and take down the bad guys. A champion show dog named Princess is missing along with her owner and Suzie, their favorite reporter. They have to toss back a few red herrings, but they solve the case with good old-fashioned gumshoe persistence. I am intrigued by the descriptions Chet supplies regarding the way people, places, and things smell. Really fascinating to view the entire shebang through his canine sensibilities.
October 20, 2019
Chet, you slay me.
February 8, 2014
Me and Bernie working a case. There’s nothing better. The wind whipping my fur, the barking—I was barking?—my head out the window taking in the breeze and the smells—don’t even get me started on the desert smells after a hard rain. The squirrels and the choke—squirrel—collar and the tumbleweeds and steak (juicy deliciousness) and bacon (definitely not the crisp kind) and little rats and weasels and biting pant legs and opening doors and hamburger and chew strips and an entire family pack of bacon—don’t even get me started.
And I bark and Iggy barks and I bark and Iggy barks, and then Iggy disappears—no, he’s back again—and I slurp fresh water (the smell) and of course I like Slim Jims—what kind of a silly question is that?—and silly stoners and Bernie needs a loaner and we’re off and running on the case, or maybe that’s just me. But then I see a squirrel and a Frisbee and of course I like fetch—what kind of a question is that?—and the Porsche with its clickety-clack-clack sound before it all breaks down. Bernie boxing for show and nearly losing all his dough and fast food—where? did I miss it?—and ice cubes (like a cold biscuit before it dissolves in my mouth) and special treats and sitting in the backseat—let me tell you, it’s not as fun as shotgun.
Holy hell, Chet and I could be best friends, but he’s man’s best friend, so it’s all good. But good doesn’t even begin to describe this massive amount of fun. Chet may have the attention span of a fruit fly, but he’s got the voice of an experienced gumshoe digging through the entrails of his next case, and he’ll see it through all the way to the end, even if he manages to get sidetracked every three-and-a-half minutes.
The sidetracks, though, are where things tend to get interesting. Sure, there’s a mystery—albeit a slightly simple one, but this is a dog we’re talking about after all—and sure, it’s solved by the end but the real excitement lies in the and back roads and dog shows—perfect for a world-class gumshoe of the canine variety.
I’ll need to hold my fedora in my hand the next time I see Spencer Quinn—there was a brief encounter at the Albany Bouchercon—because he really nailed Chet’s voice. Nailed it so well that I thought I was a dog for a few hours, and I really, really want to be a dog all over again sometime soon. It’s a good thing I have TO FETCH A THIEF in the reading queue. Because if I didn’t, I’d certainly need to put it there…like right now.
Cross-posted at Robert's Reads
And I bark and Iggy barks and I bark and Iggy barks, and then Iggy disappears—no, he’s back again—and I slurp fresh water (the smell) and of course I like Slim Jims—what kind of a silly question is that?—and silly stoners and Bernie needs a loaner and we’re off and running on the case, or maybe that’s just me. But then I see a squirrel and a Frisbee and of course I like fetch—what kind of a question is that?—and the Porsche with its clickety-clack-clack sound before it all breaks down. Bernie boxing for show and nearly losing all his dough and fast food—where? did I miss it?—and ice cubes (like a cold biscuit before it dissolves in my mouth) and special treats and sitting in the backseat—let me tell you, it’s not as fun as shotgun.
Holy hell, Chet and I could be best friends, but he’s man’s best friend, so it’s all good. But good doesn’t even begin to describe this massive amount of fun. Chet may have the attention span of a fruit fly, but he’s got the voice of an experienced gumshoe digging through the entrails of his next case, and he’ll see it through all the way to the end, even if he manages to get sidetracked every three-and-a-half minutes.
The sidetracks, though, are where things tend to get interesting. Sure, there’s a mystery—albeit a slightly simple one, but this is a dog we’re talking about after all—and sure, it’s solved by the end but the real excitement lies in the and back roads and dog shows—perfect for a world-class gumshoe of the canine variety.
I’ll need to hold my fedora in my hand the next time I see Spencer Quinn—there was a brief encounter at the Albany Bouchercon—because he really nailed Chet’s voice. Nailed it so well that I thought I was a dog for a few hours, and I really, really want to be a dog all over again sometime soon. It’s a good thing I have TO FETCH A THIEF in the reading queue. Because if I didn’t, I’d certainly need to put it there…like right now.
Cross-posted at Robert's Reads
March 23, 2024
In this 2nd book in the 'Chet and Bernie' series, the detective team investigates the abduction of a show dog and her owner.
In the Chet and Bernie stories, Bernie Little and his hundred-plus pound dog Chet run the Little Detective Agency in a region of Arizona called The Valley.
The books are narrated by Chet, whose somewhat limited vocabulary, unfamiliarity with idioms, doggie logic, craving for treats, and tendency to get distracted set the stage for plenty of smiles.
Bernie is a West Point graduate, war veteran, former police lieutenant, and talented private detective. Chet is Bernie's invaluable partner, always ready to clamp his jaw on perps and drag them off by the pants.
As the story opens, Chet and Bernie nab an arsonist/jewel thief, who confesses and is arrested.
>Afterwards, Chet observes, "Hours later we had two checks, one for the arson, one for the jewel heist, and a good thing, too, because our finances were a mess—alimony, child support, [and] a bad investment in some company with plans to make Hawaiian pants just like the Hawaiian shirts Bernie wears." Bernie has a tendency to make bad investments, and in this book, Bernie buys into (what is almost certainly) a fake tin mine.....much to Chet's dismay.
As always, Bernie's bank account needs a boost, so - when Bernie's frenemy Lieutenant Stine recommends a gig that pays $2,000 per day - the Little Detective Agency takes the job. Bernie and Chet are hired to 'bodyguard' a small, white, prize-winning show dog named Princess, who's owned by Contessa Adelina.
Unfortunately, Chet immediately grabs a bacon bit meant for Princess, and the detectives get fired before the job even begins.
Soon afterwards, the Contessa and Princess are abducted, and Bernie and Chet are hired to find them. This is a big news story in The Valley, and Bernie's journalist girlfriend, Suzie Sanchez, chases the scoop. Next thing you know, Suzie is missing as well.
As the story unfolds, Bernie and Chet encounter the Contessa's husband, who has a title but no money;
Princess's trainer Nance, who witnessed the Contessa's abduction;
a man who claims that - in the last dog show - his pooch was nobbled by the Contessa's team;
and a sheriff and his deputy, who seem reluctant to help.
Chet also has an adventure of his own when he gets separated from Bernie and meets a couple of old hippies in the desert.
The novel has plenty of action, danger, and laughs, but the story feels padded (too much driving around here and there). Still, I enjoyed the book and recommend it to readers who like cozy mysteries, especially Chet and Bernie fans.
You can follow my reviews at https://reviewsbybarbsaffer.blogspot.com
June 13, 2013
Rating: 3.5* of five
The Publisher Says: The second book of an irresistible series narrated by a loveable and wise dog. In the newest Chet and Bernie mystery, Chet gets a glimpse of the show dog world turned deadly. "We run a detective agency, me and Bernie, called the Little Detective Agency on account of Little being Bernie's last name. My name's Chet, pure and simple. Headquarters is our house on Mesquite Road, a nice place with a big tree out front, perfect for napping under, and the whole canyon easily accessible out back, if it just so happens someone left the gate open. And then, up in the canyon -- well, say no more."
Praised by Stephen King as "a canine Sam Spade full of joie de vivre," Chet and his human companion Bernie have both had some setbacks in life -- Bernie in combat, Chet in K-9 school, but together they make up a team like no other. In Thereby Hangs a Tail, Bernie and Chet are called on to investigate threats made against an unlikely target -- a pretty, pampered show dog named Princess. What seems like a joke turns into a serious case when Princess and her owner are abducted. To make matters worse, Bernie's on-again, off-again girlfriend, reporter Susie Sanchez, disappears too. When Chet is separated from Bernie, he's on his own to put the pieces together, find his way home, and save the day.
With genuine suspense and intrigue, combined with humor and insight into the special bond between man and dog, Thereby Hangs a Tail will have everyone talking.
My Review: Cute! Very cute! Chet is such a clever boy I want to give him Milk Bones until he faints!
And that's kinda the problem under the fun: Cute. It's fun, yes, and it's pleasantly written with a well-imagined dog's point of view. But I think this is a series that needs to be taken in annual doses, and in the proper mood. I am, admittedly, as curmudgeonly as the day is long. But I'm not immune to charm. The series has charm.
It's just, well, it's wearing a bit thin at the elbows. Also, I hate Suzie. But I would, wouldn't I, being a dour old gay guy?
But then there are moments like this, and I can't help grinning:
That's Chet, a bright dog, narrating. The snap-snap-snap of a dog processing into dog-think the idea of roof-house-safe and making it better by getting under a table rings completely true to me. And the magic for me is in Quinn's rendering that into non-cloying humanspeak.
And then there's the ending. Whee dawggie. White knuckles and bright flashlights exciting, and even though I was pretty darned sure I knew whodunit, but please forgive me if I don't tell you the bit I was most tensed up about and the bit that Chet, for all his smarts, didn't see as scary and troubling as I did.
Read 'em one at a time, in order, and these books will give you thrills and grins and not a few gnawed knuckles. Like the one skinless, bloody nubbin I've got workin' over the unresolved plot line that I can't tell you about. GAH!
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 3.0 Unported License.
The Publisher Says: The second book of an irresistible series narrated by a loveable and wise dog. In the newest Chet and Bernie mystery, Chet gets a glimpse of the show dog world turned deadly. "We run a detective agency, me and Bernie, called the Little Detective Agency on account of Little being Bernie's last name. My name's Chet, pure and simple. Headquarters is our house on Mesquite Road, a nice place with a big tree out front, perfect for napping under, and the whole canyon easily accessible out back, if it just so happens someone left the gate open. And then, up in the canyon -- well, say no more."
Praised by Stephen King as "a canine Sam Spade full of joie de vivre," Chet and his human companion Bernie have both had some setbacks in life -- Bernie in combat, Chet in K-9 school, but together they make up a team like no other. In Thereby Hangs a Tail, Bernie and Chet are called on to investigate threats made against an unlikely target -- a pretty, pampered show dog named Princess. What seems like a joke turns into a serious case when Princess and her owner are abducted. To make matters worse, Bernie's on-again, off-again girlfriend, reporter Susie Sanchez, disappears too. When Chet is separated from Bernie, he's on his own to put the pieces together, find his way home, and save the day.
With genuine suspense and intrigue, combined with humor and insight into the special bond between man and dog, Thereby Hangs a Tail will have everyone talking.
My Review: Cute! Very cute! Chet is such a clever boy I want to give him Milk Bones until he faints!
And that's kinda the problem under the fun: Cute. It's fun, yes, and it's pleasantly written with a well-imagined dog's point of view. But I think this is a series that needs to be taken in annual doses, and in the proper mood. I am, admittedly, as curmudgeonly as the day is long. But I'm not immune to charm. The series has charm.
It's just, well, it's wearing a bit thin at the elbows. Also, I hate Suzie. But I would, wouldn't I, being a dour old gay guy?
But then there are moments like this, and I can't help grinning:
All at once, I was kind of tired, too. I lay down under the hall table. A roof over your head is always nice. I realized that the house had a roof, of course, so in fact I had two roofs over my head, even better. And what about the ceiling? Under the roof, right, but still a kind of roof, too? I got a bit confused.
That's Chet, a bright dog, narrating. The snap-snap-snap of a dog processing into dog-think the idea of roof-house-safe and making it better by getting under a table rings completely true to me. And the magic for me is in Quinn's rendering that into non-cloying humanspeak.
And then there's the ending. Whee dawggie. White knuckles and bright flashlights exciting, and even though I was pretty darned sure I knew whodunit, but please forgive me if I don't tell you the bit I was most tensed up about and the bit that Chet, for all his smarts, didn't see as scary and troubling as I did.
Read 'em one at a time, in order, and these books will give you thrills and grins and not a few gnawed knuckles. Like the one skinless, bloody nubbin I've got workin' over the unresolved plot line that I can't tell you about. GAH!
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 3.0 Unported License.
October 23, 2014
This is the second of the Chet & Bernie mysteries, but stands alone very well. While I'm glad I read the first book, I would not have been lost at all if I hadn't. I got this from the library & really liked the reader, Jim Frangione, who captures Chet's voice perfectly.
If you haven't read either book, it is a private detective, Bernie Little, & his dog, Chet, on mystery cases told from Chet's point of view. I often like first person narrators since, while unreliable, they lend an immediacy to the story that tends to sweep me along. Chet's unreliability is one of the best points for me. I quit reading anthropomorphizing stories years (decades?) ago since I found them silly, but that's exactly what injects a wonderful sense of perspective & humor into this one. Chet's loyalty to Bernie, his unfettered love of life, & simplistic point of view all combine to make the story much more than another mystery. Quinn obviously knows & loves dogs, as do I. Most of his characterizations were dead on & delightful.
On the downside, Chet's simplistic POV gets a bit redundant, especially in this book which is longer & more complex than the first. Some phrases could really grate if Frangione didn't say them so smoothly. I think Quinn needs to watch out on the next book & I don't think I'd want to read many of these books back to back. I read the first one, Dog on It, most of a year ago - a good thing, I think. Still, I'll read the next one as soon as it is available. I'll also keep Frangione on my list of excellent readers.
If you haven't read either book, it is a private detective, Bernie Little, & his dog, Chet, on mystery cases told from Chet's point of view. I often like first person narrators since, while unreliable, they lend an immediacy to the story that tends to sweep me along. Chet's unreliability is one of the best points for me. I quit reading anthropomorphizing stories years (decades?) ago since I found them silly, but that's exactly what injects a wonderful sense of perspective & humor into this one. Chet's loyalty to Bernie, his unfettered love of life, & simplistic point of view all combine to make the story much more than another mystery. Quinn obviously knows & loves dogs, as do I. Most of his characterizations were dead on & delightful.
On the downside, Chet's simplistic POV gets a bit redundant, especially in this book which is longer & more complex than the first. Some phrases could really grate if Frangione didn't say them so smoothly. I think Quinn needs to watch out on the next book & I don't think I'd want to read many of these books back to back. I read the first one, Dog on It, most of a year ago - a good thing, I think. Still, I'll read the next one as soon as it is available. I'll also keep Frangione on my list of excellent readers.
December 11, 2014
I have read a book narrated by a horse (Robert E. Lee's Traveler), a cat (Sneaky Pie Brown), and now a dog (Chet). The horse is a much better storyteller. Of course, he did have an unfair advantage, being present at the biggest battles of the Civil War.
I got suckered into this book by its dust jacket which has a shot of Monument Valley, one of my very favorite locations. The story does take place in a valley, but it is not Monument. It is only a generic valley called the Valley. And it was only after I started reading that I realized that a dog was going to be the narrator.
It really is true that you can't judge a book by its cover. But sometimes I forget.
I got suckered into this book by its dust jacket which has a shot of Monument Valley, one of my very favorite locations. The story does take place in a valley, but it is not Monument. It is only a generic valley called the Valley. And it was only after I started reading that I realized that a dog was going to be the narrator.
It really is true that you can't judge a book by its cover. But sometimes I forget.
March 17, 2018
Fun!
I think I actually enjoyed this second book more than the first - which is unusual isn't it?
Initially I thought it slightly repetitive (I had literally just finished the first one), but that feeling didn't last.
I found myself smiling a lot whilst reading this, which is just what I needed - I even laughed a little, which rarely happens.
It is told completely from Chet's perspective (the dog), so we see how he interprets and makes sense of events (or not!), and many of his observations are spot on- especially his summing up of human characters and habits. Chet's complete love for his owner is pure and simple, and manages to be simultaneousy funny and heartwarming. As in the first book, Chet gets into a scrape of his own and has a secret adventure that Bernie knows nothing about - an added quirky angle to the storytelling.
I'm definitely a 'dog person', so that probably has something to do with why I'm enjoying these books so much- I love Chet & Bernie! I'll definitely be reading the rest of the series - there are eight of them - happy days...
I think I actually enjoyed this second book more than the first - which is unusual isn't it?
Initially I thought it slightly repetitive (I had literally just finished the first one), but that feeling didn't last.
I found myself smiling a lot whilst reading this, which is just what I needed - I even laughed a little, which rarely happens.
It is told completely from Chet's perspective (the dog), so we see how he interprets and makes sense of events (or not!), and many of his observations are spot on- especially his summing up of human characters and habits. Chet's complete love for his owner is pure and simple, and manages to be simultaneousy funny and heartwarming. As in the first book, Chet gets into a scrape of his own and has a secret adventure that Bernie knows nothing about - an added quirky angle to the storytelling.
I'm definitely a 'dog person', so that probably has something to do with why I'm enjoying these books so much- I love Chet & Bernie! I'll definitely be reading the rest of the series - there are eight of them - happy days...
September 23, 2014
Sorry readers but this is not a review although I have read this book. I have given all the Chet and Bernie mystery series 5 stars simply for the pure enjoyment of reading them. If you end up loving a book and want to read it over and over and you fall in love with the characters isn't that worthy of 5 stars? Not only have I read them, I have listened to the recordings. Can anything be better than to hear one of your most beloved book characters talk?
Since I now have read all of Chet and Bernie's mysteries except for the kindle versions I have fallen into deep depression. I need Chet the Jet to come and administer some kind words of wisdom such as "...and therefore...". I want to adopt Chet and promise to make sure he ate 2 or 3 square meals a day (which at times Bernie tends to forget) and get him those Memphis ribs at least once a week. I would schedule play dates with Iggy his best friend so they could romp through the house and be able to go outside. Chet could lead him through the gate to the wonders of the Canyon which is outside his fence. Oh Chet, I do love thee. You make me smile, laugh, chortle out loud in the Doctor's office during lengthy waits and cheer you and Bernie on in your adventures.
Please make Bernie hire more clients so you can have more adventures which I can read and don't ever lose your ability to make so many readers happy and delighted with your fine analytical mind.
Since I now have read all of Chet and Bernie's mysteries except for the kindle versions I have fallen into deep depression. I need Chet the Jet to come and administer some kind words of wisdom such as "...and therefore...". I want to adopt Chet and promise to make sure he ate 2 or 3 square meals a day (which at times Bernie tends to forget) and get him those Memphis ribs at least once a week. I would schedule play dates with Iggy his best friend so they could romp through the house and be able to go outside. Chet could lead him through the gate to the wonders of the Canyon which is outside his fence. Oh Chet, I do love thee. You make me smile, laugh, chortle out loud in the Doctor's office during lengthy waits and cheer you and Bernie on in your adventures.
Please make Bernie hire more clients so you can have more adventures which I can read and don't ever lose your ability to make so many readers happy and delighted with your fine analytical mind.
February 4, 2021
What first seems like a walk in the park to wise and lovable canine narrator Chet and his human companion Bernie—to investigate threats made against a pretty, pampered show dog—turns into a serious case when Princess and her owner are abducted. To make matters worse, Bernie’s on-again, off-again girlfriend, reporter Susie Sanchez, disappears too. When Chet is separated from Bernie, he’s on his own to put the pieces together, find his way home, and save the day.
3.5 stars
This was another fun Chet and Bernie adventure. My daughter and I listened to this one in the car. It was her first Chet and Bernie novel and she liked it quite a lot. I don't have a lot to say about it but that I still love all of Chet's dog thoughts. They are hands down the best part of the series. I probably won't review every single book in this long series—there are 10 plus two more in the works at the time I'm writing this—but I'll try to write reviews for the ones I like the best.
Review also posted at Writings of a Reader
3.5 stars
This was another fun Chet and Bernie adventure. My daughter and I listened to this one in the car. It was her first Chet and Bernie novel and she liked it quite a lot. I don't have a lot to say about it but that I still love all of Chet's dog thoughts. They are hands down the best part of the series. I probably won't review every single book in this long series—there are 10 plus two more in the works at the time I'm writing this—but I'll try to write reviews for the ones I like the best.
Review also posted at Writings of a Reader
June 20, 2020
The perfect way to relax? Let Chet give you a dog's eye view of him and Bernie cracking a case involving murder, abduction, hippies, sheriffs and showdogs in the California desert.
I first met Chet and Bernie, the dog and human team that make up The Little Detective Agency, in 'Dog On it'. I had a great time. I was impressed by Spencer Quinn's humour and by his ability to tell a detective story from the point of view of a very believable dog who has a tendency to forget details like why they're chasing someone but will always remember anywhere with a good smell or the possibility of food.
I listened to the audiobook version of the first book and I'd have liked to have read the rest of the series that way, but no audiobook version is available in the UK so I tried 'Thereby Hangs A Tail' as an ebook and I'm glad to say that the humour comes across just as well.
'Thereby Hangs A Tail' has all the things you'd want from a cosy mystery: a relentless, slightly quirky PI, a suspect-rich environment ranging from ageing hippies, shady sheriffs, biker snipers, Las Vegas big shots and Italian Counts; an insight into the competitive dog show world and the spectacular scenery of the California desert, including a falling-apart Ghost Town.
What makes it exceptional, and a lot more fun is that the story is told entirely from Chet's point of view. What could be more life-affirming than being inside the head of a dog who wakes up each day feeling tip-top, loves riding shotgun in Bernie's Porsche as they chase after bad guys, is proud that he and Bernie (always the smartest human in the room) wrap up a lot of cases, even if the details of most of them are a little fuzzy and is always on the lookout for bad guys, frisbees, tennis balls and discarded food.
If you're a dog person, you'll recognise Chet and you'll smile. If you're not a do person, take the time to meet Chet and your life might get better.
I love how Spencer Quinn imagines Chet's thoughts. How he lets Chet get distracted while staying enthusiastic. How Chet loves stories but forgets details after a while, especially when the details are unpleasant. How Chet can lose himself in the pleasure of a long stretch. Most of all, I like Chet's view of the human world. Here's his view on wine:
'Wine smells are pretty interesting—even humans are on to that. I love when they stick their little noses in the glass and go on about blackberries and chocolate and lemongrass—trust me, they haven’t got a clue.'
And here's his take on Baseball:
'We drove toward the sun, through a few neighborhoods a lot like our own, then past a baseball field with a kids’ game going on. I didn’t understand baseball, but it always looked like fun, and the ball itself I loved. Who’d have guessed what the insides were like?'
I recommend this book if you're looking for a few hours spent in the company a great dog and his clever human, solving a decent mystery and having a lot of fun along the way.
I first met Chet and Bernie, the dog and human team that make up The Little Detective Agency, in 'Dog On it'. I had a great time. I was impressed by Spencer Quinn's humour and by his ability to tell a detective story from the point of view of a very believable dog who has a tendency to forget details like why they're chasing someone but will always remember anywhere with a good smell or the possibility of food.
I listened to the audiobook version of the first book and I'd have liked to have read the rest of the series that way, but no audiobook version is available in the UK so I tried 'Thereby Hangs A Tail' as an ebook and I'm glad to say that the humour comes across just as well.
'Thereby Hangs A Tail' has all the things you'd want from a cosy mystery: a relentless, slightly quirky PI, a suspect-rich environment ranging from ageing hippies, shady sheriffs, biker snipers, Las Vegas big shots and Italian Counts; an insight into the competitive dog show world and the spectacular scenery of the California desert, including a falling-apart Ghost Town.
What makes it exceptional, and a lot more fun is that the story is told entirely from Chet's point of view. What could be more life-affirming than being inside the head of a dog who wakes up each day feeling tip-top, loves riding shotgun in Bernie's Porsche as they chase after bad guys, is proud that he and Bernie (always the smartest human in the room) wrap up a lot of cases, even if the details of most of them are a little fuzzy and is always on the lookout for bad guys, frisbees, tennis balls and discarded food.
If you're a dog person, you'll recognise Chet and you'll smile. If you're not a do person, take the time to meet Chet and your life might get better.
I love how Spencer Quinn imagines Chet's thoughts. How he lets Chet get distracted while staying enthusiastic. How Chet loves stories but forgets details after a while, especially when the details are unpleasant. How Chet can lose himself in the pleasure of a long stretch. Most of all, I like Chet's view of the human world. Here's his view on wine:
'Wine smells are pretty interesting—even humans are on to that. I love when they stick their little noses in the glass and go on about blackberries and chocolate and lemongrass—trust me, they haven’t got a clue.'
And here's his take on Baseball:
'We drove toward the sun, through a few neighborhoods a lot like our own, then past a baseball field with a kids’ game going on. I didn’t understand baseball, but it always looked like fun, and the ball itself I loved. Who’d have guessed what the insides were like?'
I recommend this book if you're looking for a few hours spent in the company a great dog and his clever human, solving a decent mystery and having a lot of fun along the way.
Read
January 19, 2010Jackie says:
The long awaited second installment of the private investigation adventures of Bernie and Chet from "Dog On It" (now out in paperback)is almost here! Yes, the boys are back in January, kicking bad guy butt and wagging tail. I found this book even more fun than the first one. This time they've become involved in a kidnapping (though no one is sure if the intended victim was the rich lady or her prize winning show dog) that blossoms into mayhem and murder. This will be an absolute hit, no question, and it will leave fans panting for more (especially the last few pages on incredibly frustrating foreshadowing that is personally driving me NUTS).
Even if you didn't read "Dog On It", you'll like this book. There are a few references to some of the things that happened in it, but there are tons of references to cases we've never heard about before too--it's all part of a muddled backstory that Chet can't quite remember clearly or doesn't have time to tell you right now. It just adds to his canine charisma--he's a here and now kind of guy.
The long awaited second installment of the private investigation adventures of Bernie and Chet from "Dog On It" (now out in paperback)is almost here! Yes, the boys are back in January, kicking bad guy butt and wagging tail. I found this book even more fun than the first one. This time they've become involved in a kidnapping (though no one is sure if the intended victim was the rich lady or her prize winning show dog) that blossoms into mayhem and murder. This will be an absolute hit, no question, and it will leave fans panting for more (especially the last few pages on incredibly frustrating foreshadowing that is personally driving me NUTS).
Even if you didn't read "Dog On It", you'll like this book. There are a few references to some of the things that happened in it, but there are tons of references to cases we've never heard about before too--it's all part of a muddled backstory that Chet can't quite remember clearly or doesn't have time to tell you right now. It just adds to his canine charisma--he's a here and now kind of guy.
March 20, 2010
Actually, 4.75. Though Chet can't count past 2. Despite the lack of fingers and math skills, he is a terrific private eye who doesn't give up until he's got the perp by the pantleg. All in good fun, Quinn's fiction (this is the second Chet and Bernie mystery, and even better than the first one) is smart, literary, and convincing. Well, maybe a dog can't really narrate a crime story in Philip Marlowe-esque prose, especially since all those similes and metaphors distract him (dogs are very literal, after all: "walks," "biscuits," "baths," etc. are exactly and only walks, biscuits, and baths), as do squirrels, bacon, and vague memories of earlier adventures. So Chet repeats himself, goes off on rambling tangents, and gets very confused about human language. For instance, when somebody tells a hungover Bernie that he looks like something the cat dragged in, Chet mulls this one over a while and decides that if cats can drag Bernie, maybe he should give it a try...
January 9, 2012
In the span of only two books, the Chet and Bernie Mystery Series has moved to my Favorites list. For me that is saying something. It usually takes several volumes before I realize that I am getting to know the characters, and have enough interest in them to read on to the next one.
Bernie a stumbling biped, with no sense of hearing or sight or smell to speak of, is Chet's partner in the business of detection.
Chet a quadruped with every sense heightened, is perplexed that any mystery gets solved. Still he is confidant that a resolution will come along. Or really, he doesn’t care…as long as he can ride shotgun.
I love how Bernie knows when Chet is about to behave embarrassingly badly...embarrassing to a human that is. Chet senses that he might be about to do something mortifying around Bernie…but what’s a canine to do?
It is so touching when Bernie lovingly roughs up Chet’s coat, or when Chet gently extends his paw to touch Bernie while they are driving.
A dog and his boy.
Bernie a stumbling biped, with no sense of hearing or sight or smell to speak of, is Chet's partner in the business of detection.
Chet a quadruped with every sense heightened, is perplexed that any mystery gets solved. Still he is confidant that a resolution will come along. Or really, he doesn’t care…as long as he can ride shotgun.
I love how Bernie knows when Chet is about to behave embarrassingly badly...embarrassing to a human that is. Chet senses that he might be about to do something mortifying around Bernie…but what’s a canine to do?
It is so touching when Bernie lovingly roughs up Chet’s coat, or when Chet gently extends his paw to touch Bernie while they are driving.
A dog and his boy.
June 22, 2013
This series isn't for everyone. A dog as narrator sounds cheesy and probably is, unless you love dogs. Then you are likely to love Chet, the canine partner of Private Investigator Bernie. Chet is a fabulous character, very much a dog yet incredibly smart the way we think our own much loved dogs are. He doesn't always understand the nuances of what people are saying or the complexities of some of their interactions, but he makes up for that with his own canine senses and zest for life. His take on humans and events around him, especially when he surprises himself with some doggy reaction are very humorous. I love how Chet finds himself chewing or picking at things when he is unhappy (not allowed to ride shot gun, which he believes is his spot alone), concerned, or anxious. His undying devotion and admiration for Bernie are touching and sweet, while Chet still has immense confidence in his own abilities and sense of worth. He and Bernie truly are partners, their relationship based as much in mutual respect as in love.
The mysteries have been pretty good too. :-)
The mysteries have been pretty good too. :-)
October 20, 2019
There is no better detective duo than Bernie and Chet! The addition of a new dog on the case creates more opportunity for humor and heart-warming interaction, but the danger and thrill of the investigation did not fail to keep me reading with bated breath at some intervals. Quinn also leaves this one on a bit of a cliffhanger; I can’t wait to read the next one!
Reading some complaints, I will say it is easy to suspect the true culprits of the case; this book is really about the enjoyment of Chet’s perspective on sleuthing, the people he loves, and life.
Reading some complaints, I will say it is easy to suspect the true culprits of the case; this book is really about the enjoyment of Chet’s perspective on sleuthing, the people he loves, and life.
December 14, 2021
This is such a cute series! I love Chet and his POV during their investigations.
May 19, 2015
While being very good mysteries, these Chet and Bernie books are also so funny. I find myself laughing out loud at Chet's ideas and behaviors. He really does not like cats.
What I think is so well done is that Chet is absolutely a dog. He needs to clear his head, so he gives himself a good all-over shake and that feels better. He hears a growl and is surprised to realize it is coming from him.
And he always thinks Bernie is the best and smartest. Isn't that what you'd hope your dog to thinks of you?
Loved it and will read more of this series.
Oh, and on that note, these are a series, but they are each a complete and very enjoyable story as a stand alone (but you'll still want to read the other because they are so good). You don't feel that you are missing any pieces if you pick up the third book or the first book.
What I think is so well done is that Chet is absolutely a dog. He needs to clear his head, so he gives himself a good all-over shake and that feels better. He hears a growl and is surprised to realize it is coming from him.
And he always thinks Bernie is the best and smartest. Isn't that what you'd hope your dog to thinks of you?
Loved it and will read more of this series.
Oh, and on that note, these are a series, but they are each a complete and very enjoyable story as a stand alone (but you'll still want to read the other because they are so good). You don't feel that you are missing any pieces if you pick up the third book or the first book.
July 8, 2009
I wish I could find a picture to post of the cover as it is a great picture of Chet's silhouette. I loved this one as much as the first in the series. Chet and Bernie have another adventure while looking for a kidnapped championship dog and her owner. Of course, it alls goes wrong and Chet saves the day again. It is amazing how Quinn brings the dogs and their thoughts to life. I think Quinn's secret identity is really a dog. I highly recommend this series.
September 19, 2011
A light, satisfying whodunit that's both suspenseful and fun. As in the first book, the story is narrated by the private detective's sidekick, who happens to be a dog named Chet. Chet is a clever investigator himself, and he does a fine job as PI Bernie's "Watson" with his doggy point of view, which of course means he's easily distracted by things like smells and treats, and tends to be forgetful. A real treat for mystery fans who are also dog lovers.
August 10, 2015
I have now read 3 of these books, two hardback large print from my library. I have enjoy reading about Chet's endeavours and often smile at his Chet's comments. I remove one star as the characters have not grown. It is annoying to read Chet's actions in each book. Chet gets lost in the desert at some point. This time with Princess, a white toy poodle. This a new adventure. Bernie's is missing persons and we meet crooked lawmen. I plan reading the rest of the series as I enjoy the books.
November 20, 2021
Second book in a series about detective team Bernie Little and his dog Chet. Story is told from Chet's perspective. Chet is easily distracted by snacks, other animals, naps, and words he doesn't understand.
December 21, 2024
Review and Summary of Thereby Hangs a Tail by Spencer Quinn
Thereby Hangs a Tail is the second book in the Chet and Bernie mystery series by Spencer Quinn. This delightful, witty novel is narrated by Chet, a lovable and loyal dog, who works alongside his human partner, Bernie Little, in a private investigation agency. The book combines humor, mystery, and heart, making it a perfect read for dog lovers and fans of lighthearted detective stories.
Summary
The story begins when Bernie and Chet are hired to protect Princess, a pampered show dog, and her wealthy owner, Countess Adelina di Borghese. Shortly after Bernie reluctantly accepts the job, both Princess and the Countess go missing. What starts as a straightforward security gig turns into a complex kidnapping case.
As Bernie delves deeper into the investigation, he uncovers a trail of deception, greed, and hidden motives. Meanwhile, Chet provides his unique canine perspective on the events, often catching clues that Bernie misses, though his dog instincts occasionally lead to humorous diversions. Together, they face dangerous criminals, navigate a web of intrigue, and work to rescue the missing pair.
The relationship between Chet and Bernie is the heart of the story. Chet’s unwavering loyalty and his often humorous observations about human behavior give the narrative a unique and endearing tone. While Bernie uses his detective skills and intellect, Chet’s instincts and keen sense of smell often prove invaluable.
Themes
• Loyalty and Friendship: The bond between Chet and Bernie exemplifies true partnership and mutual reliance.
• Human and Animal Connection: The story showcases the depth of understanding between humans and their pets.
• Justice and Morality: The novel explores Bernie’s commitment to doing the right thing, even when faced with challenges.
Review
Spencer Quinn’s writing shines with humor and charm, largely due to Chet’s first-person (or first-dog) narration. Chet’s voice is authentic and amusing, capturing the quirks of a dog’s thought process, from his love of treats to his occasional distractions. The mystery itself is well-crafted, with twists and turns that keep the reader engaged.
The book strikes a perfect balance between the lightheartedness of Chet’s perspective and the seriousness of Bernie’s investigation. The pacing is steady, and the resolution is satisfying, tying up the case while leaving room for further adventures in the series.
Overall, Thereby Hangs a Tail is an entertaining and heartwarming mystery that will appeal to fans of cozy mysteries, animal lovers, and anyone looking for a fun, engaging read. It’s a story that celebrates the bond between humans and dogs while delivering a clever and enjoyable detective tale.
Thereby Hangs a Tail is the second book in the Chet and Bernie mystery series by Spencer Quinn. This delightful, witty novel is narrated by Chet, a lovable and loyal dog, who works alongside his human partner, Bernie Little, in a private investigation agency. The book combines humor, mystery, and heart, making it a perfect read for dog lovers and fans of lighthearted detective stories.
Summary
The story begins when Bernie and Chet are hired to protect Princess, a pampered show dog, and her wealthy owner, Countess Adelina di Borghese. Shortly after Bernie reluctantly accepts the job, both Princess and the Countess go missing. What starts as a straightforward security gig turns into a complex kidnapping case.
As Bernie delves deeper into the investigation, he uncovers a trail of deception, greed, and hidden motives. Meanwhile, Chet provides his unique canine perspective on the events, often catching clues that Bernie misses, though his dog instincts occasionally lead to humorous diversions. Together, they face dangerous criminals, navigate a web of intrigue, and work to rescue the missing pair.
The relationship between Chet and Bernie is the heart of the story. Chet’s unwavering loyalty and his often humorous observations about human behavior give the narrative a unique and endearing tone. While Bernie uses his detective skills and intellect, Chet’s instincts and keen sense of smell often prove invaluable.
Themes
• Loyalty and Friendship: The bond between Chet and Bernie exemplifies true partnership and mutual reliance.
• Human and Animal Connection: The story showcases the depth of understanding between humans and their pets.
• Justice and Morality: The novel explores Bernie’s commitment to doing the right thing, even when faced with challenges.
Review
Spencer Quinn’s writing shines with humor and charm, largely due to Chet’s first-person (or first-dog) narration. Chet’s voice is authentic and amusing, capturing the quirks of a dog’s thought process, from his love of treats to his occasional distractions. The mystery itself is well-crafted, with twists and turns that keep the reader engaged.
The book strikes a perfect balance between the lightheartedness of Chet’s perspective and the seriousness of Bernie’s investigation. The pacing is steady, and the resolution is satisfying, tying up the case while leaving room for further adventures in the series.
Overall, Thereby Hangs a Tail is an entertaining and heartwarming mystery that will appeal to fans of cozy mysteries, animal lovers, and anyone looking for a fun, engaging read. It’s a story that celebrates the bond between humans and dogs while delivering a clever and enjoyable detective tale.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 7, 2023
Chet, the dog, and Bernie, the human partner, own a detective agency. Chet was rescued by Bernie after he flunked out of K9 Cop School. Somehow a cat was involved. Chet narrates their adventures.
In this episode, they are hired to work as bodyguards at an important dog show. Their client is a valuable pedigreed dog called Princess, who has received some death threats. Normally, they wouldn't take bodyguard work but Bernie's recent bad investment in tin futures and the proffered large fee make it impossible to turn down. They are fired before they can do more than meet Princess. When Princess and her owner are kidnapped, Chet and Bernie try to find them. Bernie's on again, off again journalist girlfriend disappears while following the story, which makes it even more urgent to find Princess.
Spencer Quinn does a fantastic job of giving the dog's eye view from Chet. If a dog could really talk, I hope he would sound exactly like Chet. He often loses focus and and his comments result in some hilarious moments. One example is when Chet hears someone say, “They didn’t see diddley,” He latches on to that, remembering “Bernie was a big Bo Diddley fan…Was Bo Diddley a suspect in the…case?” When Chet and Bernie are separated, some stoners try to sell Chet to a man who wants to take him to Alaska. Will they ever be reunited?
This is such a clever series. It's well written, humorous and irresistible, particularly in audio. I didn't do the audio on this one but have already ordered it for the next book of the series. Jim Frangione is a masterful narrator. The mysteries are okay and fairly easy to solve but that's easy enough to overlook to be able to spend extra time with Chet. I read a lot of gritty mysteries but always look forward to spending time with these two clowns.
In this episode, they are hired to work as bodyguards at an important dog show. Their client is a valuable pedigreed dog called Princess, who has received some death threats. Normally, they wouldn't take bodyguard work but Bernie's recent bad investment in tin futures and the proffered large fee make it impossible to turn down. They are fired before they can do more than meet Princess. When Princess and her owner are kidnapped, Chet and Bernie try to find them. Bernie's on again, off again journalist girlfriend disappears while following the story, which makes it even more urgent to find Princess.
Spencer Quinn does a fantastic job of giving the dog's eye view from Chet. If a dog could really talk, I hope he would sound exactly like Chet. He often loses focus and and his comments result in some hilarious moments. One example is when Chet hears someone say, “They didn’t see diddley,” He latches on to that, remembering “Bernie was a big Bo Diddley fan…Was Bo Diddley a suspect in the…case?” When Chet and Bernie are separated, some stoners try to sell Chet to a man who wants to take him to Alaska. Will they ever be reunited?
This is such a clever series. It's well written, humorous and irresistible, particularly in audio. I didn't do the audio on this one but have already ordered it for the next book of the series. Jim Frangione is a masterful narrator. The mysteries are okay and fairly easy to solve but that's easy enough to overlook to be able to spend extra time with Chet. I read a lot of gritty mysteries but always look forward to spending time with these two clowns.
June 8, 2024
Complex enough to keep it interesting. This is the 2nd full-length novel in a row of this series I've listened to, plus 2 of the short stories. I'm still undecided about how I like the Chet schtick. So far I think I've actually liked the shorter pieces better--which is surprising, I'm not generally a fan of short stories, preferring something longer I can get absorbed in. But there's so much repetition with the novels, perhaps trying to make each something you could pick at random without having read the previous ones. Re: this one, a thread was left dangling: what happened to Princess--legally speaking? Who is she going to live with now? And one plot nitpick: why would the box of dog biscuits have been buried separately??
May 18, 2022
As always, this series entertains me and I struggle with all I have to read to catch up on it. I undoubtedly think I may have already read this one, realizing it shortly after starting it. But I didn’t stop, not sure if I remembered the ending and certain events. A thrill to read/reread, as I had lost track of what I had and hadn’t read in this great series. Love the mystery of this great series! Love Bernie for his quick thinking and investigating. Love Chet for his humor and fun. Everyone should have a joyful dog like Chet-and I don’t doubt that some people do! Great read!! Ready for the next adventure! 🐾
July 16, 2018
Really enjoyed the book especially when Chet goes off on a tangent. Off to now read the whole series
November 1, 2025
I liked this a bit better than the first. Very cute and fun. I may come back to this series when I am in the mood for this type of mystery.
So this one involves a dog show, a dog and owner that were going to hire Bernie as a bodyguard
March 4, 2019
A second read and just as enjoyable!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,373 reviews