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Andy Carpenter #14
Outfoxed
Defense lawyer Andy Carpenter spends as much time as he can working on his true passion, the Tara Foundation, the dog rescue organization he runs. Lately, Andy has been especially involved in a county prison program where inmates help train dogs the Tara Foundation has rescued to make them more adoptable, benefiting both the dogs and the prisoners. One of the prisoners Andy has been working with is Brian Atkins, who has 18 months left on a 5-year term for fraud. Brian has been helping to train Boomer, an adorable fox terrier the Tara Foundation rescued from a neglectful owner. Brian and Boomer are clearly a terrific match. In fact, Andy hopes that Brian will adopt Boomer himself, once his sentence is up. But one day, Andy arrives at the prison to discover that Brian has used Boomer to make an ingenious escape, and man and dog are both in the wind. The next day, the man on whose testimony Brian was convicted is found murdered. Brian is caught and arrested for the crime, though he forcefully protests his innocence. Suddenly, Andy finds himself with a new client in Brian and a new dog in Boomer. And as he starts to dig deeper into the murder and the events leading up to it, Andy realizes he might be putting them all in far more danger than anyone had realized. Duration: 7.5 hr
7 pages, Audio CD
First published July 19, 2016
About the author
David Rosenfelt
67 books2,595 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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Displaying 1 - 30 of 478 reviews
October 10, 2016
Let's face it. The Andy Carpenter books by David Rosenfelt are not the greatest books ever written. Sometimes I wonder why I read them. They basically follow a template. Andy gets a client. Laurie, Sam, and Willie are involved in the investigation to varying degrees. Hike is the go-fer. Marcus is the muscle. Other characters are always involved. And there are dogs. What changes from book to book is the legal case.
But read them I do. I enjoy the relationships, the banter, and the humor. The cases are interesting, and I like the trials. The books are quick reads. They don't tax my brain or my emotions. I know what to expect, and I get what I expected. These books are like a piece of candy between meals. Maybe some day Rosenfelt will surprise me, but I'm happy to continue as is.
But read them I do. I enjoy the relationships, the banter, and the humor. The cases are interesting, and I like the trials. The books are quick reads. They don't tax my brain or my emotions. I know what to expect, and I get what I expected. These books are like a piece of candy between meals. Maybe some day Rosenfelt will surprise me, but I'm happy to continue as is.
June 22, 2018
David Rosenfelt has a proven formula with his Andy Carpenter series. Andy takes a case that would appear impossible to win. He finds an alternative story to the one being put forward by the prosecution, but it’s initially impossible to tie into the facts at hand in such a way that a judge will allow it to be presented. Normally, formulas quickly become old for me. But not here. His stories are always interesting enough and different enough that he keeps me engaged. This one has a big twist at the end that I didn’t see coming.
I listened to this book. I don’t think I’ll ever again read an Andy Carpenter book without hearing Grover Gardner in my head. He does a great job.
This is fun. Nothing serious here. But definitely entertaining.
December 31, 2016
I know this is supposed to be a book review but hear me out on something first, please. It’s just that David Rosenfelt is an awesome human being, books or no books. He and his wife Debbie are passionate about animals, particularly dogs. They founded a dog rescue called the Tara Foundation in honor of their beloved departed Golden Retriever Tara. Not only that, they themselves have rescued and adopted hundreds of senior dogs over the years… dogs that are sick, geriatric and basically have very little chance of ever finding another home, finally found their home with the Rosenfelt family. If you’ve ever visited his Facebook page you would have seen the myriad pictures of his home in Maine with dogs literally draped over the furniture and filling the bed. Case in point:
Isn’t that lovely? And this is why I love David and Debbie.
Ok, so I also enjoy his books! Outfoxed is the 14th in the Andy Carpenter series. These are great fun, not too heavy (there is some violence but it’s not overly gratuitous), and filled with hilarious zips and zings that keep me laughing out loud all the way through. Perfect for when you want something lighter and entertaining. Oh, and Tara the dog as well as the rescue org are both part of this fictional world because Rosenfelt has infused Andy Carpenter with his own love and respect for dogs of all shapes, sizes and age.
"We’ve probably brought four hundred senior dogs into our home, over the years, as our pets. We didn’t bring them in because we have a particular love of seniors, though we do. We didn’t bring them in because they are smarter, or more obedient, because some are, and some aren’t.
We brought them in because they had nowhere else to go. And when they eventually died, it made us feel good to know that for whatever time they were with us, they were happy, and safe, and loved."
-David Rosenfelt
Isn’t that lovely? And this is why I love David and Debbie.
Ok, so I also enjoy his books! Outfoxed is the 14th in the Andy Carpenter series. These are great fun, not too heavy (there is some violence but it’s not overly gratuitous), and filled with hilarious zips and zings that keep me laughing out loud all the way through. Perfect for when you want something lighter and entertaining. Oh, and Tara the dog as well as the rescue org are both part of this fictional world because Rosenfelt has infused Andy Carpenter with his own love and respect for dogs of all shapes, sizes and age.
"We’ve probably brought four hundred senior dogs into our home, over the years, as our pets. We didn’t bring them in because we have a particular love of seniors, though we do. We didn’t bring them in because they are smarter, or more obedient, because some are, and some aren’t.
We brought them in because they had nowhere else to go. And when they eventually died, it made us feel good to know that for whatever time they were with us, they were happy, and safe, and loved."
-David Rosenfelt
September 7, 2018
The canine guest this time is Boomer, “an adorable fox terrier” who has formed an attachment with Brian Atkins. Only problem is, Brian can’t take Boomer for walks in the park. He is in jail for embezzling funds from his own company. Within days of a hearing for early release, he suddenly breaks out, and when the bodies of his wife and former partner are discovered dead from multiple stab wounds and Brian is seen by a neighbour “fleeing” the house, his troubles start all over again.
Brian is a client that Andy Carpenter inherited from an elderly defense attorney. Much as he detests work, Andy is good at what he does, and Brian needs someone good to emerge from this without spending the rest of his life in prison.
I had one quibble with this one: the editing was fast-tracked and its petticoats showed as it ran. There were three times within the first few chapters that a particular description was given regarding the technology of a high-tech computer firm. I got it the first time, and I’m sure most people would. The information also comes out in more detail later on with more relevance = more impact. That is where the lost star went. It is a small detail and one that doesn’t harm the story in any way. However, it still matters in the overall professionalism of the finished product.
There is obviously a lot more to love than not-to-love in this novel. The plot is excellent and a real thrill-ride. Marcus had to rescue Andy a few times because Andy’s old nemesis in organized crime appears to be involved and keeps rubbing people out like an eraser on steroids. Andy really doesn’t want to be one of them.
I love the characters in this series: Andy’s now-expanded family, his legal team, and even some of the recurring Judges and prosecutors. Some recurring characters that have been there from the beginning of the series will definitely not be in the next book. However, the dogs are all safe and happy and that matters!
I also love the combination of humour and tension/suspense that is Mr. Rosenfelt’s trademark in this series and I’m looking forward to reading #15 next month!
Brian is a client that Andy Carpenter inherited from an elderly defense attorney. Much as he detests work, Andy is good at what he does, and Brian needs someone good to emerge from this without spending the rest of his life in prison.
I had one quibble with this one: the editing was fast-tracked and its petticoats showed as it ran. There were three times within the first few chapters that a particular description was given regarding the technology of a high-tech computer firm. I got it the first time, and I’m sure most people would. The information also comes out in more detail later on with more relevance = more impact. That is where the lost star went. It is a small detail and one that doesn’t harm the story in any way. However, it still matters in the overall professionalism of the finished product.
There is obviously a lot more to love than not-to-love in this novel. The plot is excellent and a real thrill-ride. Marcus had to rescue Andy a few times because Andy’s old nemesis in organized crime appears to be involved and keeps rubbing people out like an eraser on steroids. Andy really doesn’t want to be one of them.
I love the characters in this series: Andy’s now-expanded family, his legal team, and even some of the recurring Judges and prosecutors. Some recurring characters that have been there from the beginning of the series will definitely not be in the next book. However, the dogs are all safe and happy and that matters!
I also love the combination of humour and tension/suspense that is Mr. Rosenfelt’s trademark in this series and I’m looking forward to reading #15 next month!
July 11, 2017
Typical Andy Carpenter book & well narrated, as usual, by Grover Gardner. It was OK, a bit repetitious. Rosenfelt must think his readers can't remember who characters are since he often reintroduces them several times almost exactly the same way. Not awful, but a bit tiring. Tara is still doing well, which is great. I think she's ageless like James Bond. I don't mind that at all!
The mystery was fairly well done, although I kept wondering why the amount of time the murder took never came up. IIRC, the accused would have had 1.5 minutes to pull into the drive, commit the murder, & drive out according to the witness statement. Must have been longer since this point was never mentioned. Perhaps I misheard, an issue with audio books. It's tough to go back & double check.
I was pleasantly surprised at how well the computer stuff was done. It's what I do for a living, so I'm picky about how the subject is handled. Hollywood & most fiction authors deal with the subject so poorly that give up in disgust. Rosenfelt did great, though. Kudos!
All in all, a fun read. I'll look forward to the next, but I'm not in a rush.
The mystery was fairly well done, although I kept wondering why the amount of time the murder took never came up. IIRC, the accused would have had 1.5 minutes to pull into the drive, commit the murder, & drive out according to the witness statement. Must have been longer since this point was never mentioned. Perhaps I misheard, an issue with audio books. It's tough to go back & double check.
I was pleasantly surprised at how well the computer stuff was done. It's what I do for a living, so I'm picky about how the subject is handled. Hollywood & most fiction authors deal with the subject so poorly that give up in disgust. Rosenfelt did great, though. Kudos!
All in all, a fun read. I'll look forward to the next, but I'm not in a rush.
July 14, 2017
First Sentence: I’ve been enjoying work lately.
Defense attorney Andy Carpenter spends most of his time as partner of a dog rescue group. When a former white-color-crime client escapes from prison, taking with him a puppy-for-prisoner’s program, and is accused of murdering his soon-to-be-ex-wife and former partner, Andy finds he has no choice but to get back into the legal game. He just didn’t expect it to be as dangerous as it is.
What an excellent cast of characters with Andy, his wife Laurie, partner Willie, Marcus, and others. We are easily introduced to each of them and provided their backgrounds in such a way that readers new to the series need not feel lost or confused. And although there are not nearly as many characters as some authors include, Rosenfelt has a nice way of, within the plot, reminding one of whom some characters are and their role in the story.
Rosenfelt is the master of dry, biting humor—“Sam does not realize it, but he’s two boring sentences away from strangulation.” Who has not known someone about whom they feel that way?
One issue with having a wealthy protagonist is his ability to buy information; money is no object. It does feel a bit too easy at times. However, the information on online betting is rather interesting.
There are a number of threads to the plot. Whilst one doesn’t know quite where the author is going with them, one does know to trust that the author knows. Rosenfelt does an excellent job of taking those seemingly loose threads, making their importance clear, and finally tying them all together. His courtroom scenes are well done. The author does an excellent job of explaining various aspects of the law.
“Outfoxed” is a very good read with action, suspense, legal and courtroom drama, a dash of wry humor, and a very satisfactory ending.
OUTFOXED -(Legal Thriller-Sam Carpenter-NJ, Contemp) – VG
Rosenfelt, David – 14th in series
Minotaur Books – Reprint Edition June 2017
Defense attorney Andy Carpenter spends most of his time as partner of a dog rescue group. When a former white-color-crime client escapes from prison, taking with him a puppy-for-prisoner’s program, and is accused of murdering his soon-to-be-ex-wife and former partner, Andy finds he has no choice but to get back into the legal game. He just didn’t expect it to be as dangerous as it is.
What an excellent cast of characters with Andy, his wife Laurie, partner Willie, Marcus, and others. We are easily introduced to each of them and provided their backgrounds in such a way that readers new to the series need not feel lost or confused. And although there are not nearly as many characters as some authors include, Rosenfelt has a nice way of, within the plot, reminding one of whom some characters are and their role in the story.
Rosenfelt is the master of dry, biting humor—“Sam does not realize it, but he’s two boring sentences away from strangulation.” Who has not known someone about whom they feel that way?
One issue with having a wealthy protagonist is his ability to buy information; money is no object. It does feel a bit too easy at times. However, the information on online betting is rather interesting.
There are a number of threads to the plot. Whilst one doesn’t know quite where the author is going with them, one does know to trust that the author knows. Rosenfelt does an excellent job of taking those seemingly loose threads, making their importance clear, and finally tying them all together. His courtroom scenes are well done. The author does an excellent job of explaining various aspects of the law.
“Outfoxed” is a very good read with action, suspense, legal and courtroom drama, a dash of wry humor, and a very satisfactory ending.
OUTFOXED -(Legal Thriller-Sam Carpenter-NJ, Contemp) – VG
Rosenfelt, David – 14th in series
Minotaur Books – Reprint Edition June 2017
July 19, 2016
Woo!! What more can I say about the Andy Carpenter series? This is the best one to date that I have read and I have read all them. This one starts with a dog a usual. One Andy's client the in prison dog training group take off with a dog, Boomer. When Andy and Willie go retrieve Boomer, Sam follows them and takes the escapee into custody. Andy has a new client. As the investigation expands into the murder, Ricky is threatened and Andy decides to take on a Mob Boss. Witnesses died just before Andy locates them. Marcus has major part In the story. I highly recommend this book.
Disclosure: I received a free copy from St. Martin's Press through NetGalley for an honest review. I would like to thank for the opportunity to read and review this book. The opinions expressed are my own.
Disclosure: I received a free copy from St. Martin's Press through NetGalley for an honest review. I would like to thank for the opportunity to read and review this book. The opinions expressed are my own.
September 27, 2021
This is a Legal Mystery, and this is the 14th book in the Andy Carpenter series. I love the characters in this book, and I love the fact Andy is also being throw into a case he does not want. I love the mystery in this book, and I really did not guess who did it. There was a lot of suspense and mystery in this book. I also love seeing Andy becoming a family man.
December 25, 2016
I really need to steal some words from my friends about this series. David Rosenfelt writes around a template of some kind. Same characters, same setting, dogs involved, and a courtroom ritual. Small things are added along the way and some things are eliminated. Your typical murder mystery. It's not a cozy mystery, but also not so intensified that you're emotionally drained by the end. Some of his books have bored me to tears at times, some have really given me an opportunity to sit back, relax and do some 'easy' reading and enjoy the simple plot.
Ricky, Andy's new adopted son, was not something I saw coming in the past books. Now that I've read a few with Laurie as his wife and Ricky as his son, Andy's personality hasn't changed one bit. I'm not sure I like that and this book just gave me more reason to feel like Andy just doesn't belong in these books anymore or doesn't fit the personality of being a father. I can't exactly put my finger on it. It's little things he says, or does that just make me feel perturbed about his way of logic and thinking, especially around his wife and child.
I do love the series though. It gives me a chuckle now and then, I have my favorite characters and not so favorite and it wouldn't be a good series if it didn't have some villains in it, some old, some new. Of course, Marcus is a favorite. The massively large brute who always seems to scare everyone and yet save the innocent, no matter they human or animal. I've finally caught up to the latest book The Twelve Dogs of Christmas
and that was my goal this year for several different series I had started a couple years ago.
Ricky, Andy's new adopted son, was not something I saw coming in the past books. Now that I've read a few with Laurie as his wife and Ricky as his son, Andy's personality hasn't changed one bit. I'm not sure I like that and this book just gave me more reason to feel like Andy just doesn't belong in these books anymore or doesn't fit the personality of being a father. I can't exactly put my finger on it. It's little things he says, or does that just make me feel perturbed about his way of logic and thinking, especially around his wife and child.
I do love the series though. It gives me a chuckle now and then, I have my favorite characters and not so favorite and it wouldn't be a good series if it didn't have some villains in it, some old, some new. Of course, Marcus is a favorite. The massively large brute who always seems to scare everyone and yet save the innocent, no matter they human or animal. I've finally caught up to the latest book The Twelve Dogs of Christmas
and that was my goal this year for several different series I had started a couple years ago.
August 3, 2016
Outfoxed by David Rosenfelt.
This was my 14th Andy Carpenter book to date and there's a few reasons why I stick with this series. The characters and the love of dogs. Andy is a very likable lawyer (hard to believe) with a heart for victims and dogs. The people around him: Laurie- his wife with an empathetic heart, Willie Miller- (who now runs the Tara Foundation a dog rescue shelter with Andy)is the innocent man Andy represented in court and was able to get him released from prison, Marcus-Andy's body guard who is always there for Andy. These are some of the people that make the Andy Carpenter stories a home base for me.
In this latest entry Andy's client, Brian Atkins, is in prison for embezzlement. He is due to be released in less than 4 months when out of the blue he makes an escape. Later that same day a witness observes Brian leaving the scene of a double murder. The victims turn out to be Brian's wife and business associate. It appears to be a cut & dry guilty beyond a reasonable doubt until Andy starts digging deeper ...and that digging just may lead to more murders including Andy's.
An excellent read in exhaustive yet comprehensive details that kept me focused with Andy. The author's sense of humor makes this book complete.
This was my 14th Andy Carpenter book to date and there's a few reasons why I stick with this series. The characters and the love of dogs. Andy is a very likable lawyer (hard to believe) with a heart for victims and dogs. The people around him: Laurie- his wife with an empathetic heart, Willie Miller- (who now runs the Tara Foundation a dog rescue shelter with Andy)is the innocent man Andy represented in court and was able to get him released from prison, Marcus-Andy's body guard who is always there for Andy. These are some of the people that make the Andy Carpenter stories a home base for me.
In this latest entry Andy's client, Brian Atkins, is in prison for embezzlement. He is due to be released in less than 4 months when out of the blue he makes an escape. Later that same day a witness observes Brian leaving the scene of a double murder. The victims turn out to be Brian's wife and business associate. It appears to be a cut & dry guilty beyond a reasonable doubt until Andy starts digging deeper ...and that digging just may lead to more murders including Andy's.
An excellent read in exhaustive yet comprehensive details that kept me focused with Andy. The author's sense of humor makes this book complete.
October 16, 2016
A special thank you to St. Martin's Press (Minotaur) and NetGalley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review. Nice Cover.
Talented David Rosenfelt returns following Who Let the Dog Out (2015) with the fun-loving Andy Carpenter Series #14 OUTFOXED —an entertaining legal thriller whodunit, mixed with mystery, suspense, dogs, french fries, football, sports, organized crime, and lots of wit!
Andy Carpenter, is a defense attorney who has not been taking on any new clients, running the Tara Foundation, a dog rescue group in Haledon, New Jersey with his partner Willie. Andy is also the spreader of human and canine happiness everywhere, and loves his life (he does not miss the courtroom). However, little does he know, he will soon be returning.
Andy also heads up a program called Prison Pals, rescue dogs in need of training and socialization into prisons to be trained by inmates. A win-win; the dogs get needed training and loving care, and the prisoners get the chance to interact and bond with some really great dogs.
Brian Atkins, is currently one of the inmates working in the program, and also a client. His lawyer had been Nathan Cantwell, a legend in NJ legal circles for sixty years. He just died at the age of 87 and now Brian is Andy's client. He was only planning on helping him with his parole and release.
Brian has served three years of a five-year term after being convicted of embezzlement and fraud, the victim being the software company that he co-founded.
In a minimum security area of East Jersey state Prison, he would be up for parole in four months. He was working with an adorable fox terrier named Boomer. Brian loves Boomer, so much that Brian--Andy has learned, from Pete, captain of the police department---Brian has escaped prison with Boomer.
Why would Brian escape now, when he is so close to getting out of prison? To make matters worse, he is accused of murdering two people: his wife, Denise (soon to be ex) and ex-partner, (Gerry).
He was in jail originally for a white collar crime (his own company, Starlight Systems Technology Company) and Andy cannot even consider Brian as a murderer. Even after paying back the embezzled money and a fine, Brian is a wealthy man. A comfortable life awaited him on the outside. The idea he would escape made no sense.
Now, Andy will have to put his lawyer hat on, once again to help Brian. Brian says he did not kill the two. He still says he is innocent of the original charges. Is he being set up? If so, why and how?
In the meantime, on the home front, Andy is happily married to Laurie (former cop) and they have adopted Ricky, in the third grade. Ricky is caught discussing point spreads (sports betting), he has learned from his dad. Some fun stories here. Also we get to catch up with Tara (his best Golden Retriever and Sebastian.
With a GPS tracker in Boomer’s collar they were found; however, now Andy has to dig deep, putting he and his family in danger trying to track down the long list of criminals and thugs involved in this complex conspiracy.
When they find out an organized dangerous crime family and the mob are involved, things get complicated. From Wall Street, an affair, gangsters, blackmail, thugs, betting, technology to motivations for murder—was Brian being framed? As the bodies pile up, confronting dangerous killers is not something Andy had in mind for his bucket list
From Andy’s fun team, and cast of colorful characters: Marcus (PI-tank) Willie (marital arts expert), Sam (Hacker), Enda (secretary), Laurie (wife, ex-cop) and his tenacity--will they solve the whodunit to clear Brian and be reunited with his pal, Boomer?
As always, an entertaining tale! If you are looking for a twisty intense legal thriller, with suspense, mystery, with loads of personality and wit, an ideal series. This installment does not focus on the dog portion, as much as the whodunit crime mystery suspense; however, a well-developed absorbing suspense.
Love this series - Andy Carpenter fans will devour! Be sure to check out #15, coming Oct 18 The Twelve Dogs of Christmas 5 Stars!
JDCMustReadBooks
Talented David Rosenfelt returns following Who Let the Dog Out (2015) with the fun-loving Andy Carpenter Series #14 OUTFOXED —an entertaining legal thriller whodunit, mixed with mystery, suspense, dogs, french fries, football, sports, organized crime, and lots of wit!
Andy Carpenter, is a defense attorney who has not been taking on any new clients, running the Tara Foundation, a dog rescue group in Haledon, New Jersey with his partner Willie. Andy is also the spreader of human and canine happiness everywhere, and loves his life (he does not miss the courtroom). However, little does he know, he will soon be returning.
Andy also heads up a program called Prison Pals, rescue dogs in need of training and socialization into prisons to be trained by inmates. A win-win; the dogs get needed training and loving care, and the prisoners get the chance to interact and bond with some really great dogs.
Brian Atkins, is currently one of the inmates working in the program, and also a client. His lawyer had been Nathan Cantwell, a legend in NJ legal circles for sixty years. He just died at the age of 87 and now Brian is Andy's client. He was only planning on helping him with his parole and release.
Brian has served three years of a five-year term after being convicted of embezzlement and fraud, the victim being the software company that he co-founded.
In a minimum security area of East Jersey state Prison, he would be up for parole in four months. He was working with an adorable fox terrier named Boomer. Brian loves Boomer, so much that Brian--Andy has learned, from Pete, captain of the police department---Brian has escaped prison with Boomer.
Why would Brian escape now, when he is so close to getting out of prison? To make matters worse, he is accused of murdering two people: his wife, Denise (soon to be ex) and ex-partner, (Gerry).
He was in jail originally for a white collar crime (his own company, Starlight Systems Technology Company) and Andy cannot even consider Brian as a murderer. Even after paying back the embezzled money and a fine, Brian is a wealthy man. A comfortable life awaited him on the outside. The idea he would escape made no sense.
Now, Andy will have to put his lawyer hat on, once again to help Brian. Brian says he did not kill the two. He still says he is innocent of the original charges. Is he being set up? If so, why and how?
In the meantime, on the home front, Andy is happily married to Laurie (former cop) and they have adopted Ricky, in the third grade. Ricky is caught discussing point spreads (sports betting), he has learned from his dad. Some fun stories here. Also we get to catch up with Tara (his best Golden Retriever and Sebastian.
With a GPS tracker in Boomer’s collar they were found; however, now Andy has to dig deep, putting he and his family in danger trying to track down the long list of criminals and thugs involved in this complex conspiracy.
When they find out an organized dangerous crime family and the mob are involved, things get complicated. From Wall Street, an affair, gangsters, blackmail, thugs, betting, technology to motivations for murder—was Brian being framed? As the bodies pile up, confronting dangerous killers is not something Andy had in mind for his bucket list
From Andy’s fun team, and cast of colorful characters: Marcus (PI-tank) Willie (marital arts expert), Sam (Hacker), Enda (secretary), Laurie (wife, ex-cop) and his tenacity--will they solve the whodunit to clear Brian and be reunited with his pal, Boomer?
As always, an entertaining tale! If you are looking for a twisty intense legal thriller, with suspense, mystery, with loads of personality and wit, an ideal series. This installment does not focus on the dog portion, as much as the whodunit crime mystery suspense; however, a well-developed absorbing suspense.
Love this series - Andy Carpenter fans will devour! Be sure to check out #15, coming Oct 18 The Twelve Dogs of Christmas 5 Stars!
JDCMustReadBooks
January 25, 2023
Andy and the cast of characters delivered for me on this one. I love when the issue is smaller than global. I loved this one. It held some multi tiered dramas with familiar foes and some of the anchor court drama that is central to this series. I found comfort in the characters i have grown to know like friends. I enjoy the characteristics of Sam and Marcus. I laugh at Andy's sarcasm and his exchanges with Vince and Pete. The series always feels like you are returning to your childhood. And each installment while holding that familiarity provides enough drama and intensity to keep me pawing the pages to see how the court drama will unwind and provide the solution I didn't see coming...
March 5, 2022
Read most any review of this series and it would probably fit this one just as well. But somehow, the formula hasn't gotten stale so far. Whenever I'm in the mood for a light, interesting, and humorous story with a happy ending, I know I can count on Andy Carpenter and the gang. And then there's Grover Gardner, the narrator, who is Andy Carpenter to me. I don't think I could listen to a different narrator unless I wait at least a year or two.
September 14, 2017
When Andy Carpenter's client escapes from prison using a dog in a prison training program, he is soon accused of murder. Andy runs prepares to defend the man and runs afoul of a criminal family that he has had dealings with in the past. When Andy's family is threatened it become personal. A good readable mystery.
June 17, 2016
In the latest instalment, lapsed defence attorney Andy Carpenter has to dust off his suit & head back into the courtroom.
His client is in jail for a white collar crime but escapes the same day his wife & former business partner are murdered. Coincidence? Andy's buddy Det. Pete Stanton thinks not.
Game on. Andy assembles his trusty legal team which includes hacker extraordinaire Sam & body guard Marcus who can literally scare you to death with a look. They'll come in handy as the investigation soon uncovers unsavoury dealings on the dark web & links to a local crime boss.
It's a twisty legal thriller with plenty of action & red herrings to keep you turning the pages. Balancing out his hair raising run-ins with members of the goon squad is a happy home life with Laurie & adopted son Ricky. He's still getting the hang of this fatherhood thing & it's not always clear which one of them is the kid. His self deprecating narration provides lots of laughs as we are treated to his personal philosophies & sly observations of those around him. And thanks to him I know realize pumpkins are evil & should be eradicated from the planet.
This is book #14 & some may call them formulaic. But the same could be said of Lee Child or John Sandford & you don't see them tinkering with what works. Fans of this series keep coming back because each book contains a smart legal thriller, lots of dogs & characters they've become attached to, all told in Rosenfelt's fast paced & entertaining style. So sign me up for #15.
His client is in jail for a white collar crime but escapes the same day his wife & former business partner are murdered. Coincidence? Andy's buddy Det. Pete Stanton thinks not.
Game on. Andy assembles his trusty legal team which includes hacker extraordinaire Sam & body guard Marcus who can literally scare you to death with a look. They'll come in handy as the investigation soon uncovers unsavoury dealings on the dark web & links to a local crime boss.
It's a twisty legal thriller with plenty of action & red herrings to keep you turning the pages. Balancing out his hair raising run-ins with members of the goon squad is a happy home life with Laurie & adopted son Ricky. He's still getting the hang of this fatherhood thing & it's not always clear which one of them is the kid. His self deprecating narration provides lots of laughs as we are treated to his personal philosophies & sly observations of those around him. And thanks to him I know realize pumpkins are evil & should be eradicated from the planet.
This is book #14 & some may call them formulaic. But the same could be said of Lee Child or John Sandford & you don't see them tinkering with what works. Fans of this series keep coming back because each book contains a smart legal thriller, lots of dogs & characters they've become attached to, all told in Rosenfelt's fast paced & entertaining style. So sign me up for #15.
November 1, 2019
Kind of a Halloween themed read. 🎃Started out on Halloween and the cover has a fall-ish look to it. This is a consistently great series in my opinion.
March 31, 2023
Andy is bequeathed some clients from a lawyer friend who died. One is three months from parole for embezzling. He escapes from prison and kills two people. He escapes with the dog he was training. A canine program Andy setup. In a familiar tactic Andy finds him by tracking the missing dog. In a familiar tactic the police follow Andy and arrest his client. What ensues is another fast and fun read with high tech companies, the mob, drugs, gambling, blackmail, and more murders.
February 19, 2023
3.5 stars. Not quite as interesting a story as previous books but as usual it’s wonderfully narrated, with humor scattered throughout.
June 7, 2021
Brian has been part of the dog trainers in prison and only has 4 months until he gets out. He escapes and goes to his wife’s house, she and the man who helped put him in prison are dead. He goes on Trial and Andy has to prove he didn’t do it. Lots of computer technology and amazing ways the mob uses it.
August 7, 2016
David Rosenfelt scored a big hit with this his 14th Andy Carpenter novel. He finally focused on his characters, particularly Andy, and didn't stretch the bounds of credibility by weaving in unbelievable stories about his dogs.
This was a good murder mystery with fair plot shifts and decoys so the story was enjoyable---and yes, he wrote enough about Tara, Boomer, and Sebastian to convince me of his love for the four legged friends. After having concerns about David's focus after his last few books, great to see he still retains his touch. Great summer read and ideal for the daily bus ride.
One aside, this is the first book I've read of the Carpenter series since I've come to enjoy listening to them on audio books--it was hard not "hearing" Andy's voice and sarcastic wit but even going old school, it was a treat.
This was a good murder mystery with fair plot shifts and decoys so the story was enjoyable---and yes, he wrote enough about Tara, Boomer, and Sebastian to convince me of his love for the four legged friends. After having concerns about David's focus after his last few books, great to see he still retains his touch. Great summer read and ideal for the daily bus ride.
One aside, this is the first book I've read of the Carpenter series since I've come to enjoy listening to them on audio books--it was hard not "hearing" Andy's voice and sarcastic wit but even going old school, it was a treat.
December 18, 2016
After reading “The Twelve Dogs of Christmas”, I went back to the beginning of the Andy Carpenter mystery series so I could enjoy the rest of this funny and suspenseful series. This attorney is the one any innocent client would want to have in his corner. If a dog is involved, you have an even better chance of Andy taking your case. Back to the style of Perry Masson, Andy Carpenter will solve your case proving your innocence come hell or high water.
Find Outfoxed at the Westminster Public Library.
Find Outfoxed at the Westminster Public Library.
November 5, 2016
Number #14. I don't own this one so I had to wait to get it from the library so I could read #15!! These books just get better. Andy is now owner of 2 dogs and a Dad and has had to change some of his bad habits! Andy always turns out to be the smartest guy in the place and always solves the mystery. I love that about him as well as his wise cracks said outloud or in his head. Every periphery character is well drawn and we see our favorites over and over and it never gets old!!These books are funny, the violence is usually off stage, the trail scenes are well written, and no bad guy escapes!! And there are dogs, and now a son and a wife. What more can a reader ask for!!!
January 15, 2018
As I read through this series, I'm becoming great friends with Andy Carpenter and his gang. Doesn't hurt that Andy's wife shares my name. Great series, totally enjoying it.
March 1, 2022
Another book about “Andy Carpenter, spreader of human and canine happiness everywhere.” Instead of lawyering, Andy has been working on a prisoner dog training program in the prison. This is until Boomer, a wire haired terrier, helps a prisoner escape, who supposedly kills two people.
Andy gets a new client. Obviously guilty, according to just about everyone…else.
And, once again, Andy must deal with Dominic Petrone, head of organized crime in Northern New Jersey. His cohort in these dealings is Marcus—on the fearless end of the danger spectrum. Andy in on the “go-home-and-hide-under-the-covers” end of the spectrum.
Another great book in Rosenfelt’s long-running series.
Andy gets a new client. Obviously guilty, according to just about everyone…else.
And, once again, Andy must deal with Dominic Petrone, head of organized crime in Northern New Jersey. His cohort in these dealings is Marcus—on the fearless end of the danger spectrum. Andy in on the “go-home-and-hide-under-the-covers” end of the spectrum.
Another great book in Rosenfelt’s long-running series.
August 15, 2017
A very disappointing entry into a stellar, funny & cleverly written series. I feel like Mr Rosenfelt just called this one in, very little of the witty banter and zingy jokes that make his books crackle.
October 16, 2016
These books are just a delight. I started reading my first Andy Carpenter novel, First Degree (book #1 of the series) back on September 4th. It is now October 15th and I'm sad to say I only have one novel left (The Twelve Dogs of Christmas, #15 in the series). I have devoured this series in a little over a month. And I've truly loved every one.
Outfoxed is a great addition to the Andy Carpenter series. All the great characters we love are back in this installment. I really enjoyed that a more minor character, a villain from the earlier books, was brought back in this story and was well used. I think that sometimes in series when they bring back older characters, it can feel a bit forced. But this was well done and lead to some great story developments.
While reading through the entire series, I've loved seeing more emphasis on the dogs and the Tara Foundation. Sometimes I felt like the stories reach a bit too far into kitsch territory (once or twice in 14 books, not bad) but I felt the dog elements were played just right in this novel. It was heartfelt without turning saccharine. Loved it.
If you love Andy and his tales (oh, I SO wanted to say "tails"...puns...), I think you'll love Outfoxed. If you are planning on making this your first Andy Carpenter novel, I very much recommend you wait and start at the beginning. So much relies on characters relationships that have developed over the past 13 novels. And, as I've proven, you can catch up with the series very quickly (::weeps:: too quickly.... Only one left...). But whenever you decide to pick this one up, whether it's your first Andy Carpenter or your 14th, I can almost guarantee it won't be your last. Now, excuse me, but I'm off to read The Twelve Dogs of Christmas.
**I received this copy via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review**
Outfoxed is a great addition to the Andy Carpenter series. All the great characters we love are back in this installment. I really enjoyed that a more minor character, a villain from the earlier books, was brought back in this story and was well used. I think that sometimes in series when they bring back older characters, it can feel a bit forced. But this was well done and lead to some great story developments.
While reading through the entire series, I've loved seeing more emphasis on the dogs and the Tara Foundation. Sometimes I felt like the stories reach a bit too far into kitsch territory (once or twice in 14 books, not bad) but I felt the dog elements were played just right in this novel. It was heartfelt without turning saccharine. Loved it.
If you love Andy and his tales (oh, I SO wanted to say "tails"...puns...), I think you'll love Outfoxed. If you are planning on making this your first Andy Carpenter novel, I very much recommend you wait and start at the beginning. So much relies on characters relationships that have developed over the past 13 novels. And, as I've proven, you can catch up with the series very quickly (::weeps:: too quickly.... Only one left...). But whenever you decide to pick this one up, whether it's your first Andy Carpenter or your 14th, I can almost guarantee it won't be your last. Now, excuse me, but I'm off to read The Twelve Dogs of Christmas.
**I received this copy via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review**
November 20, 2016
In this, the 14th installment in the Andy Carpenter series, Andy is once again indulging his passion for the Tara Foundation instead of “lawyering” but, as so often happens in Andy’s life, the two soon overlap. Andy has started a program allowing prisoners to work with the foundation’s dogs. Brian Atkins has served three and a half years of his five-year sentence on a fraud conviction. Andy trusts the instincts of the dogs and Boomer, a neglected rescue, has taken to Brian so much so he hopes Boomer can find his forever home with Brian after his release. Alas, Brian succeeds in escaping from jail – unfortunately – he does so on the same day his ex-wife and ex-business partner are killed. Naturally Brian is the prime suspect despite the fact that that he proclaims his innocence.
Andy believes him and agrees to represent him, not knowing just how dangerous this case may turn out to be.
Once again Mr. Rosenfelt delivers a fun, quick read featuring self deprecating, sarcastic Andy in a story that held my interest, made me laugh and kept me turning the pages even though I knew that Andy would once again prevail in court. I also had my suspicions that Brian and Boomer might just end up together.
Formulaic? Maybe. Familiar? Definitely. But visiting with Andy, et al is like eating comfort food. It’s a “go to” when you need a pick me up and although familiar it’s much loved and seldom fails to satisfy. Looking forward to his next Andy Carpenter adventure.
I’d like to thank St. Martin’s Press and Netgalley for providing my with this book in the hopes I would provide an honest review.
Andy believes him and agrees to represent him, not knowing just how dangerous this case may turn out to be.
Once again Mr. Rosenfelt delivers a fun, quick read featuring self deprecating, sarcastic Andy in a story that held my interest, made me laugh and kept me turning the pages even though I knew that Andy would once again prevail in court. I also had my suspicions that Brian and Boomer might just end up together.
Formulaic? Maybe. Familiar? Definitely. But visiting with Andy, et al is like eating comfort food. It’s a “go to” when you need a pick me up and although familiar it’s much loved and seldom fails to satisfy. Looking forward to his next Andy Carpenter adventure.
I’d like to thank St. Martin’s Press and Netgalley for providing my with this book in the hopes I would provide an honest review.
August 11, 2016
#14 in the Andy Carpenter series. Andy would rather not practice law for a living and in this regard he is fortunate to have inherited a multi-million dollar jackpot from his father. However, he periodically is roped into taking a case and he is both lucky and talented. This time out it looks as though he will come into conflict with big mob boss Dominic Petrone. Andy has come across Petrone on several prior occasions but he has always managed to find common ground with the crime boss but this time they seem destined to cross swords.
Andy Carpenter series - New Jersey attorney and dog lover Andy Carpenter is running a program called Prison Pals, which uses inmates to help train and socialize rescued canines. One of them, white-collar criminal Brian Atkins, who's up for parole in four months, manages to escape from custody with one of the animals. Soon after, Brian is spotted fleeing from the scene of a bloody double homicide, whose victims are his estranged wife and his former business partner. Naturally, he's the prime suspect, but Andy, who's impressed by Brian's treatment of the dog he was working with, takes on his defense. That task, already daunting given the circumstantial evidence against Andy's client, becomes even more of an uphill slog when Brian insists on pleading guilty, despite his innocence.
Andy Carpenter series - New Jersey attorney and dog lover Andy Carpenter is running a program called Prison Pals, which uses inmates to help train and socialize rescued canines. One of them, white-collar criminal Brian Atkins, who's up for parole in four months, manages to escape from custody with one of the animals. Soon after, Brian is spotted fleeing from the scene of a bloody double homicide, whose victims are his estranged wife and his former business partner. Naturally, he's the prime suspect, but Andy, who's impressed by Brian's treatment of the dog he was working with, takes on his defense. That task, already daunting given the circumstantial evidence against Andy's client, becomes even more of an uphill slog when Brian insists on pleading guilty, despite his innocence.
June 12, 2021
Another reviewer hit the nail on the head - this series is not meant to be read one after the other like I’m doing. He pointed out that they were probably written and read a year apart by most people. Thus, repetition to refresh the readers memory!
I have become addicted to the series and will carry on to completion - this was an especially good one. Go Boomer����
And yes, the was a Daniel!
I have become addicted to the series and will carry on to completion - this was an especially good one. Go Boomer����
And yes, the was a Daniel!
November 23, 2023
Another enjoyable book in the Andy Carpenter series. It filled the bill for a quick read, enjoyable and humorous "Who-Dunnit."
Reread. Love this series. David Rosenfelt’s humor is a bit corny, but that’s why I like it so well.
Reread. Love this series. David Rosenfelt’s humor is a bit corny, but that’s why I like it so well.
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