Andy to the rescue! Once again Andy Carpenter is there to save the puppies of a man who is charged with murder. The story moves along at a quick pace and there is plenty of action. Andy is as snarky as ever and the story is convoluted and messy ... just what Andy enjoys. Plus he's got plenty of people to help him solve the murder. This is a long running series that I highly recommend to people who enjoy writers with humor and for dog lovers.

That cover!! This is the twenty-eight book in the Andy Carpenter series which is a combination of investigative and court room drama. Although each book follows the same format, Andy Carpenter, lawyer extraordinaire, stumbles across a case that he'd prefer not to take - mainly because he rather not work as a lawyer these days. But ultimately the case is to personal or too important for him to ignore. With a host of interesting side characters featuring some of the most adorable dogs with personalities of their own, and a whole lot of Jersey attitude, the Carpenter series will always entertain and provide several out loud laughs.
As mentioned, this is book is part of a long running series and follows the same format, but somehow Rosenfelt makes each book and case seem fresh and different. As always, this book is entertaining, fast paced and humorous with Andy's self depreciating attitude, sarcasm, sports superstitions and court room antics.
Despite being the 28th book in the series, this one can be picked up and read, although I do recommend going back at some point and starting from the beginning. I highly recommend this book and series! It'd make for a great light holiday read in an otherwise busy and stressful season!

In this latest installment of the Andy Carpenter series, reluctant lawyer, Andy, and his team are defending a former gang member who has been charged with murder. The situation proves to be convoluted and much more involved than it initially appeared to be, but, once again, Andy is able to suss out the issues and find a resolution.

I’ve said it before, but I’ll say it again…I’m a fan of David Rosenfelt and his Andy Carpenter series. I always enjoy the time I spend with the characters that Mr Rosenfelt has developed so well. ‘Twas the Bite Before Christmas is as enjoyable as I expected it to be and the humor is spot-on (the description of holiday eggnog is a hoot!). From the absolutely adorable cover to the mystery itself, this book is well-paced, the dogs are priceless, and the conversations entertaining. All around this is a good book! NetGalley provided an advance copy.

'TWAS THE BITE BEFORE CHRISTMAS is the twenty-eighth book in the Andy Carpenter series, and I must say up front this book cover is adorable! I mean, who could resist that face? However, for those who may say "Bah Humbug" to Christmas themed books, spike your glass of eggnog and dive in as references to the holiday are mostly limited to this sweet doggie in the window type cover and a few snarky remarks from Andy about what he considers the highly overrated eggnog. 'TWAS THE BITE BEFORE CHRISTMAS is all about Andy and gang's efforts to work through a complex group of misfit red herrings with mafia and gang ties to solve a murder and save a client and friend from being convicted of something he swears he didn't do. Andy believes him, but can he prove it?
The annual Christmas party at the Tara Foundation is in full swing complete with all the trimmings including the often-maligned eggnog when the police arrive. The Tara Foundation, a dog rescue organization, is lawyer Andy Carpenter's passion and he's not happy to have to call his friend Derek outside at the request of the police. Derek is slapped into handcuffs, read his rights and carted off to jail to stand trial for the murder of a gang member from Derek's past. Andy is stunned to learn Derek has been in a witness protection program for years, having testified against members of his former gang. Derek, aka Bobby swears he's turned his life around and asks Andy to represent him and take care of his two rescue dog adoptees until he returns home. As always, Andy is reluctant to take on another case, but agrees to do some digging and see what turns up. He willingly takes Derek's two dogs home bringing his in-house total to five. It doesn't take Andy long to recruit his own gang, wife Laurie, ex-cop Corey and Marcus, to assist him in the quest for answers. Their only hope of clearing Derek's name is to discover the identity of the real killer. Let the games begin!

David Rosenfelt is challenged with the same issue facing many other authors of long running series, and that's to keep stories fresh, unique and entertaining for readers. I'm happy to say he accomplished these goals in 'TWAS THE BITE BEFORE CHRISTMAS. This story is beautifully written, fast paced and humorous in all the right places. Rosenfelt presents an interesting, complex case that keeps Andy and his gang befuddled for some time as they pick through all the various clues to find the missing piece that will win the case for the good guys. As always, characterizations are great with a fired-up, highly confident support cast that series readers will recognize. While Andy remains the same reluctant lawyer, his signature courtroom antics with the philosophy that it's better to ask forgiveness than permission along with his tongue in cheek sense of humor carries the plot forward while entertaining both readers and courtroom participants. The story is nicely rounded out with the individual attitudes and tomfoolery of the family dogs, especially the immensely lazy basset hound Sebastian. While this is one of many Andy Carpenter series books, new readers will have no issue picking it up to read and enjoy as each book stands alone.
4 Stars!

'Twas the Bite Before Christmas is the 28th (!!!) Andy Carpenter legal procedural mystery by David Rosenfelt. Released 10th Oct 2023 by Macmillan on their Minotaur imprint, it's 304 pages and is available in hardcover, audio, and ebook formats. It's worth noting that the ebook format has a handy interactive table of contents as well as interactive links throughout. Ebooks with interactive formats are great; it makes it so easy to find information with the search function.

For current fans of the series, this is a good one. It's full of the same sarcastic, warm humor and the same ensemble cast as previous entries in the series (with the absence of Edna, who's found a second career, planning her wedding destination which changes with alarming frequency). Andy Carpenter is, of course, central to the story and still trying to figure out how to stay retired and avoid working. This is such a long running and consistently well written series that saying it's "more of the same, worked around a different mystery" should be enough of a recommendation by itself. Although it's the 28th book in the series, the mystery is self contained and the necessary back-story is written in albeit with a few major spoilers for previous books. I heartily recommend the whole series.

This is pure comfort reading. It's got a likable protagonist, an engaging mystery, humorous dialogue, and a solid climax, denouement, and resolution. I adore Andy's supporting team, and of course Marcus and Laurie are there to save Andy and keep him in functional form to perform his courtroom magic. As always there are adorable canine characters aplenty, adding a lot of fun to the story.

The audiobook has a run time of 6 hours and 33 minutes and is expertly narrated by Grover Gardner who manages to juggle the various accents and characters of all ages and both sexes without problems. I found myself grinning and laughing along several places with the wonderful narration. The read was definitely enhanced by the narrator. The sound and production quality are high throughout the recording.

Four and a half stars for both the text and audiobook versions. All around fun read.

Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.

So good! As always Andy Carpenter and Tara are.my favorites! This has Christmas vibes, dogs, and adventure...How can you resist! Its a.must read!

Thanks to Netgalley as St. Martin’s Press for providing this ARC in exchange for an honest review.

Andy Carpenter is forced into action against his will, again, when a man who adopted two dogs from Andy’s dog rescue is arrested for murder during a Xmas party at the rescue.

I really like this series and have been reading it for many years. The cast of characters are so familiar and likable. Andy is funny, and as a dog lover/owner myself, I enjoy how much a part of the story the dogs are. The mystery is usually pretty interesting too. Another good one. Looking forward to the next.

Twas The Bite Before Christmas, An Andy Carpenter Novel, by David Rosenfelt.

I love the Andy Carpenter series. I think of ot as a feel good thriller series. The series tackles some serious issues but in the most light hearted way possible. There is always humor throughout, usually the snarky, self-deprecating kind, and it works. Andy has so much personality, plus there are always adorable dogs, and then there is Marcus. You Can't go wrong with this combination. Whenever I'm feeling stressed and can't handle anything emotionally draining, yet still want somethingwith substance, I go for an Andy Carpenter novel. Like the earlier books in this series, Andy is reluctantly thrown into a case. With hard work, a good team, a bit of luck and lots of personality, Andy is on the case. I don't remember there ever being a case in one of these books that we witness Andy loosing, but I always enjoy seeing how he will win. 5 stars.

#bookreview #2023 #thriller #feelgood #andycarpenter #dogs #laywer #netgalley #fivestars

Okay, before I get into the story, I will tell you, it was the cover and title that hooked me. Yeah, I read the blurb and all, but I still ended up feeling a bit disappointed and misled. Sure, the dogs are there, but they don’t do like the ‘normal’ animals in a cozy mystery. And bite in the title?

Derek Moore is revealed as being in the witness protection program, when he is arrested for murder. As his friend, lawyer Andy Carpenter is on the case. Seeing this is book #28 in the series, I expected big things.

Sure, we have a mystery, but at times, it felt like a police procedural or a legal mystery. I did enjoy the story, but I doubt I would actively seek out another Andy Carpenter series book. With David Rosenfeld having such a huge collection of books, others may enjoy the books much more than I did.

See more at http://www.fundinmental.com

Thank you to the author David Rosenfelt, publishers Minotaur Books, and SMPInfluencers Program for an opportunity to read TWAS THE BITE BEFORE CHRISTMAS early. Thank you also to NetGalley for the digital widget. All views are mine.

Three (or more) things I loved:

1. The different dogs (I believe there are 5?) have so much personality. They simply jump off the page. The orphan dogs tug on my heartstrings just as hard as if they were adorable missing twin children, begging for a meal and warm bed. The irascible Sebastian the bloodhound is my favorite.

2. The sass, wit, and sarcasm add so much richness! Quote loc. 1203

3. Andy Carpenter is my favorite detective because he is so sarcastic, and because, as a defense attorney, he is positioned to know the ins and outs of the law. I sometimes find the "quirky detective" a little hard to believe, but Andy is totally authentic and believable.

Three (or less) things I didn't love:

This section isn't only for criticisms. It's merely for items that I felt something for other than "love" or some interpretation thereof.

1. I got lost in the details of the mystery. This is a common issue for me in this genre, so I think this is a "me problem" and not anything to do with the book. I read another book by Rosenfelt, starring this same detective, entitled SANTA'S LITTLE YELPERS, in which I did not have trouble following the case. Rosenfelt constructs a good mystery.

Rating: 🐶🐶🐶🐶 / 5 adorable dogs
Recommend? Yes!
Finished: October 10 2023
Format: Digital, NetGalley, SMPI
Read this if you like:
🔍 Mysteries
🐶 Puppies
🕵‍♂️ Grumpy detectives
🗣 Witty banter

I have no idea what more I can say about this series. I can say it is in my top 5 series of all time. I can say that I recommend it to absolutely everyone. I can say that listening each book is like reconnecting with old friends.

This series has everything for me and something for everyone. There is Mystery/Crime Solving, Family and Friends, Humor, and more. Oh, and DOGS!! We can't forget them!

Do yourself a favor and pick up one of these books. They can be read as standalones but if you want to see the relationships form, start from the beginning. I highly recommend the audiobooks. Grover Gardner is an incredible Andy Carpenter. I need these to be made into a tv series!!

I always enjoy Rosenfelt’s books! This one was one of the best! I started reading and couldn’t stop! Such a fun read!

David Rosenfelt has his lawyer Andy Carpenter ride to the rescue again in 'Twas the Bite Before Christmas. A former gang member who was in witness protection because he testified about fellow gangster Cobras who had murdered a clerk and another person at a store. The perpetrators died in jail after conviction. Then Derek Moore, aka the former gang member, is arrested for the murder of a Cobra. Andy is sure he was framed and as he and his team look for evidence it becomes clear that a major crime is being planned. Read and find out. Great cozy for holiday season.

'Twas the Bite Before Christmas (An Andy Carpenter Mystery) by David Rosenfelt
St. Martin's Press, Minotaur Books
Mystery & Thrillers
Expected Publication Date: October 10, 2024

'Twas the Bite Before Christmas is the 28th book in the Andy Carpenter series by David Rosenfelt. This book can easily be enjoyed as a standalone mystery or as part of the series.

This quick read was so good! I love the characters and found myself laughing out loud throughout the book! I am a huge fan of sarcasm, mysteries and dogs!

Andy Carpenter is a want-to-be-retired attorney, who can't help himself when faced with the right case! He is a great sleuth, loves dogs, and is so funny! I actually laughed out loud as some of the things he said! The crime solving was great and I loved how it all comes together!

This book was so much fun! I absolutely loved it! I definitely recommend reading this book!!!Sarcasm, quick wit, and dogs! I can't wait to start reading the other books in the series!

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

Rosenfelt is back with another Andy Carpenter mystery that entertained me with a legal battle and a mystery, both things that I love. Ever since defense attorney Andy Carpenter inherited millions of dollars from his father, he's been very selective about the cases he takes. His newest client owns two rescue dogs, and if you’ve read any previous books in the series, you know Andy can’t turn away anyone with a soft spot for dogs. While the case looks really bad for the client, Andy is assured that the man is innocent. So he and his team set out to discover the truth. Unfortunately, their discovery work uncovers some scary characters.

My Concerns
*While I loved the first books with this lawyer, his sarcastic, at times arrogant, yet wimpy attitude isn’t working for me anymore.

*Parts of the story were pretty unbelievable.

* Carpenter’s wife and son have always felt more like names than people with emotions.

*And lastly, for those expecting something Christmasy, this book will possibly be a letdown.

Final Thoughts
If you're a fan of Andy Carpenter, this is a mystery that will keep you reading and shouldn't disappoint. Andy, of course, is clever and can work through mysteries rather quickly, even if they involve the mafia. Though that, for sure, can add a little suspense to the story.

But for me, I'm realizing that Andy's personality is getting old, and the stories and characters are feeling somewhat stagnant.

Princess Fuzzypants here: All I know is that if I ever got accused of murder, I would want Andy Carpenter to defend me. Unorthodox to say the least, he is funny and smart and he has an awesome team to do the leg work, including his very capable wife. He manages to frustrate both the prosecution and the judiciary but he gets to the bottom of things and never gives up.

This time one of the adopters from his Tara Foundation is accused of murdering a guy with deep ties to organized crime. His arrest reveals his real identity that has been hidden by witness protection after he testified against some of his former colleagues. Andy is not too sure at first whether to believe his protests of innocence but quickly learns that there is a major conspiracy going on to frame him. What Andy does not understand is why now and why not just kill him. It is a puzzler.

I always love the way Andy and his team investigate. This one is as entertaining as usual and what they uncover is truly far more than either they or the police can imagine. In trying to exonerate their client, they solve a major crime but will the jury find their defendant innocent or guilty. Andy is never sure until the verdict comes in.

But my verdict is five purrs and two paws up.

5 + STARS
How the heck does Mr. Rosenfelt keep writing this series but the material never, ever gets old? The story was fresh, riveting, and exciting. Seriously this is one of the best mystery series out there.

Andy Carpenter is the creme de la creme of defense lawyers. Poor Andy, who is financially secure, just wants to happily retire. He seems to attract people in his orbit that are wrongfully accused of murder. Being a decent man he can't help representing them.

Such is the case of Bobby, a young man that adopted 2 dogs from Andy's shelter. Bobby convinced him he wasn't the one that prematurely ended Roland Bank's life, and retirement is once again pushed aside.
The major problem. Is Bobby was once a member of a vicious gang called the Cobras.

The story held my interest from the very first page and I couldn't help rooting for Bobby. The whole gang is here trying to save this man from spending the rest of his life in jail. The formidable Marcus along with Andy's fearless wife Laurie, and their ex cop partner Corey are there to fight for justice.

I highly recommend this book and hope you enjoy it as much as I did. Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for a copy of this book for my reading pleasure.

Reluctant Lawyer should be printed on his business cards, but since he is so reluctant, I’m not sure if he has business cards. Attorney Andy Carpenter is there when one of the men who adopted two dogs from his Tara Foundation is arrested for murder. The man, Derek Moore, aka Robert Klaster, is in Witness Protection due to his testimony that sent two killers to prison. Andy believes that Derek now Bobby is innocent and calls in his team, well except for Edna who is engaged and checking out wedding venues. As with all of Andy’s cases, he counts on his wife Laurie a former cop, Corey Douglas with his K9 Simon Garfunkel, Eddie Dowd, Sam Willis and of course Marcus, quiet yet incredibly dangerous Marcus. The case soon expands to involve other murders and a local crime lord who is planning a destructive way to increase revenue. Can Andy and his team find the killer and stop the new money-making scheme? I love every word of Andy’s sarcastic and laugh out loud dialog. I received an advance review copy at no cost and without obligation for an honest review. (paytonpuppy)

Readers can expect the usual wit and wise cracking humor yet again in this latest book of the Andy Carpenter lawyer series by David Rosenfelt. 'Twas the Bite Before Christmas is the 28th book in the series, so to those who are new to Rosenfelt's writing, I would suggest starting earlier in the series, even though each book can be seen as a stand alone legal case for the characters.

In this novel, Andy is tasked with defending his friend, Derek, from murder charges stemming from Derek's past affiliations in organized crime and gang activity. As Andy learns more about the murder, more players come to light between multiple crime families and the complications of the case grow as time passes.

I found 'Twas the Bite Before Christmas to be an entertaining story with a dash of holiday spirit. My one complaint was that there were a number of characters to keep track of and I found at times to be confused about which crime families the "bad guys" were connected to. Thank you to NetGalley and Minotaur Books for the chance to read and review this novel.

This is the first book I have read by David Rosenfelt but it won't be my last. I also have to say this cover was so cute!! I loved that this was about a lawyer since i'm a huge John Grisham fan. I felt at home reading this book. This book has twists and turns in this mystery read. This has some Christmas in it but not a lot. This was a really fun read and I can't wait to read more in this series.


Thank you NetGalley and St. Martin's Press, Minotaur Books for allowing me to read this ARC for my honest opinion.