Professor Rayburn has an unpleasant task before him. Not a fan of confrontation, he has his talking points laid out but to no avail. The other person shows no remorse. None.

Andy Carpenter is what you’d call a reluctant attorney. That means he’d just as soon never take another case. After inheriting a nice amount of money, he doesn’t have to—but somehow, cases find him— and they usually include his weak spot—dogs.

Now Andy, Laurie, and their son Ricky, plus Ricky’s best friend Will and his parents have all been on a winter vacation. Andy’s looking forward to being home to watch sports, stay warm, and see his three dogs.

It’s a bit of a surprise to find out there are four dogs to greet him. Pet sitter Jenny says a little Yorkie mix showed up at the house a couple of days before, it was cold, so she brought him inside. It’s Ricky who discovers the little guy is Murphy, a dog they know. And that brings Andy into another case.
Murphy’s microchip leads Andy to the woman and her son, BJ, who adopted the pup from a shelter Andy supports. BJ is in jail, arrested for the murder—of Professor Rayburn.

It’s time to call in the K-9 Team which consists of Lorie, an ex-cop, Corey and Simon Garfunkel, a retired K-9 team, and Marcus, the muscle. Sam is the computer whiz who always wants to join them “on the streets” but who would likely get overexcited and shoot someone who wasn’t the bad guy. There’s also Eddie who handles writing and filing papers with the court. He enjoys it—Andy can’t figure out why but if it means not doing them himself, he’s glad Eddie is on the team. Edna, the secretary, rarely does any work at all. It’s a mystery why she even bothers to show up for meetings.

The cases always seem impossible to solve. Evidence proving Andy’s client is guilty is overwhelming, even Andy says so. Yet, in the end, the team manages to save another innocent client. If you ever get arrested, Andy’s the guy to call—better have your dog vouch for you.

This is book 30 in the series. Rosenfelt has also written four K-9 Team mysteries, nine thrillers, and two non-fiction books. He currently lives in Maine with his wife and an increasingly large number of large dogs, many with special needs, who are all early risers, very vocal, and once fed, excellent nappers.

The More the Terrier

by David Rosenfelt

To read this book as a stand alone, you really only need to know two things. Both the author David Rosenfelt and the protagonist Andy Carpenter are crazy about dogs, particularly rescue dogs. Also, you will soon find out that Andy Carpenter is a crack, trying to retire lawyer in New Jersey who seems not to need money but maintains a small office above a fruit stand and a team of specialists to help him with investigations. Marcus is a man no one would want to mess with. Andy’s wife Laurie is a former cop. He also has a computer specialist on his staff along with others who can do research, act as bodyguards, etc.

Andy’s passion for dogs and justice intersect in The More the Terrier when a dog Andy formerly fostered finds his way back to Andy’s house. When he tries to return him to Brian, the young man who adopted him, Andy discovers Brian has been jailed for murder and has a lawyer with a dubious funding source. The prosecutor claims it is a clear case of guilt. Andy can’t imagine Brian doing anything violent, and the case is anything but clear cut. Throw in Russian gangs, professors who write secretive software, multiple other deaths and kidnappings, and a girl whose avatar was sexually attacked on metaverse. What emerges is no proof that Brian is innocent, but lots of criminal types who could have tried to frame him. It’s up to Andy to figure it all out if Brian is not going to spend the rest of his life in prison.

I like a good mystery, one that takes thought to figure out, a puzzle. This novel ranks high in that category, but my favorite aspect is Andy’s dry wit. He is able to insult and move on without the other person being able to figure out how to respond. Although there is a lot of planning, there is also action. All of his team are players; they do their jobs well, giving input as appropriate, but when all is said and done, Andy takes responsibility for the results and feels the pressure of doing what is right while helping his client. Andy has three dogs who are family and so are mentioned a lot. Murphy, Brian’s terrier, kicks off the story and is there when the plot comes full circle and resolves. The author says of Murphy: “…perky is pretty much his default position. Murphy is the type of dog that brightens up every room and car he is in.” The author’s love of dogs shines through in his books.

I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.


Rating: 5/5

Category: Mystery, Fiction

Notes: 1. #30 in the Andy Carpenter Mystery Series, but can be read as a standalone. I have only read a few in the series, but I found background information was not needed to enjoy them.
2. Clean in all aspects

Publication: October 15, 2024—St. Martin’s Press (Minotaur Books)

Memorable Lines:

I can’t understand why anyone would want to barrel down a frozen mountain at high speed on two narrow ironing boards, carrying a couple of sticks and dodging trees and other lunatics out on the same mountain.

She is counting on me to give her back her son. That pretty much defines the word pressure.

Winter is coming to an end; the weather people are saying we won’t be getting any more snow. That means we’re heading for a few pleasant weather days before the mosquitoes start arriving. They’re probably making travel plans now.

David Rosenfelt gives fans of his Andy Carpenter series a Christmas (in October) entry every year, and the new one is “The More the Terrier” (Minotaur, 307 pages, $27), out now. If you like smart, witty mysteries with dogs, you’re overdue to discover this series about a reluctant lawyer, his ex-cop wife and their pack.

There is no author I’ve recommended to more people than David Rosenfelt, and he has charmed them all.
My only regret here is that I didn’t have time to listen to the audiobook, always my favorite way to engage with Andy Carpenter.

4.5 stars = I loved it! Would re-read.

This was a lot of fun to read - twisty! I wasn't sure Andy would be able to sort things out by the end. I was able to puzzle out most of it on my own, which was extra satisfying. The K-Team was able to contribute a lot in this story, which I enjoyed. This long-running series is not slowing down! (Language, references to sexual assault and drug use)

As always, David Rosenfelt provides a comedic look at a serious situation. BJ is in jail for murder, but Andy is determined to prove his innocence.

Another wonderful Andy Carpenter book filled with mystery and humor. I can’t begin to tell people how much I look forward to these books. They are always delightful to read, entertaining, and put a smile on my face. Keep up the good work, David Rosenfelt!!!

The More the Terrier by David Rosenfelt is the latest Andy Carpenter and friends offering. As always, dogs are a major part of the tale. When a stray dog is found to be one the crew recognizes, they are drawn in to proving Murray's owner BJ hasn't murdered his college professor, although the clues all point to that conclusion. With the usual humor and all the usual characters, plus some bad guys, Andy is able to bring the case to a welcome conclusion. It's always a treat to have another Rosenfelt book to read.

From the very first book in this series, Open and Shut, I’ve been captivated by the world of Andy Carpenter and the reluctant cases he takes on. Our intrepid hero relentlessly takes on case after case, consistently demonstrating his compassion for those in need. Andy’s dog ownership is a significant factor in my admiration for him.

In this installment, Andy and his family are returning home from a relaxing vacation. Finding a dog on his doorstep really surprises Andy, even though he already owns three dogs. Despite helping countless dogs through his dog rescue organization, the Tara Foundation, this dog is no stranger to Andy. He tries to return the dog Murphy to his owner.

Shockingly, Andy learns that Murphy’s owner BJ has been arrested for murder and BJ’s mother pleads for Andy’s help in proving BJ’s innocence. It is the Christmas season, and Andy wanted to continue relaxing. In fact, he’s retired, but keeps on taking cases. For BJ’s sake, this proves no different for Andy.

There’s a tongue-in-cheek reference when Laurie, engrossed in the latest David Rosenfelt book, refuses to go to sleep. Andy, unable to comprehend her fascination, questions her interest in reading it. Beyond the snarky and humorous content, the show also delves into serious moments when Andy attempts to help those in need.

Many thanks to Minotaur Books and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.

All I know is that if I was ever up on a murder charge, I would want Andy Carpenter to defend me. He never wants to take a case but fate, this time in the form of a dog he had previously placed with a wonderful family, intervenes. When Andy returns Murphy to his home, he learns his beloved master is in jail on a murder charge. The police have a good case against him but BJ insists he is innocent. And as Andy and his very effective motley crew investigate, it is clear that BJ was set up. But by whom and why? It seems there might be a number of other people with shadier resumes who might have had issues with the victim. In fact, he has been running with a rough crowd that includes a mob boss and the Russian mafia.

The case is not dangerous only to BJ and Andy. Witnesses who might have testified have a nasty habit of disappearing or dying under extreme circumstances. If only Andy could get one of them into the court alive and well. He and his team are amazing and they are able to figure things out that neither the local police or the feds seem to be able to do. And even when Andy has cracked the case there is still one more big twist that will turn it all on its ear. I love it. And I love the characters. Five purrs and two paws up.

The More the Terrier is David Rosenfelt's 30th book in the Andy Carpenter series, so it is clear that this character is beloved by many. Rosenfelt is comfortable with the pacing of his novels and the personalities of all of the characters are fully developed by now. It seems like the reader is just along for the ride at this point.

I will say, this novel is not so much a holiday read, more that the timing takes place during the winter months. Overall a great read, especially for those who enjoy courtroom dramas.

Thank you to NetGalley and Minotaur Publishing for the chance to read this novel.

I always look forward to the next Andy Carpenter novel. They are enjoyable and predictable. A comfort read that provides exactly what I want when I pick it up.

The More the Terrier is the 30th (!!!) Andy Carpenter legal procedural mystery by David Rosenfelt. Released 15th Oct 2024 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.

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. 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 30th book in the series, the mystery is self contained and the necessary back-story is written in without major spoilers for previous books. I heartily recommend the whole series, but this particular entry is very strong and fits the rhythm and vibe of the whole.

This is pure comfort reading. It's got a likable protagonist, an engaging mystery, humorous dialogue, and a solid climax, denouement, and resolution. (This one is *full* of creepy criminals out to make a young computer science student take the fall for crimes he didn't commit). I adore Andy's supporting team, especially Marcus in this installment, and he's getting more speaking parts and active roles instead of just being the muscle; and it's a good change to see his character development. The dogs, as always, are stars, even lugubrious and lazy Sebastian, although he admittedly slept through most of the book.

The audiobook has a run time of 6 hours and 34 minutes and is expertly read by series narrator 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.

Five stars for both the text and audiobook versions. All around fun read. Perennial favorite series.

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

Thank you St. Martin's Press | Minotaur Books for allowing me to read and review The More the Terrier An Andy Carpenter Mystery by David Rosenfelt on NetGalley.

Published: 10/15/24

Stars: 4

The 30th book in the series was a homerun. Rosenfelt writes a series with quirky characters and with clever thinking from the eccentric Andy.

The mystery is the backdrop to the reunion I get as the reader with the regular cast. It's an annual catchup.

This would make a good car familial audiobook. I could see myself leaving this on a guest nightstand. It is a fun fast read.

This is a Legal Cozy Mystery, and this is the 30th book in the Andy Carpenter series. I have read the other books in this series before picking up this book. I really love the characters in this book, and This book was everything I needed. Of course, there were a lot of moments that made me laugh in this book and cute dog moments. I really loved the case that was worked in this book. I really could not put this book down. I listened to the audiobook for this book, and I really enjoyed it. The only thing I wish they would say when a new chapter starts. I received an ARC of this book. This review is my own honest opinion about the book like all my reviews are.

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Book 30 in the Andy Carpenter series.
Review from Fantastic Fiction:

Reluctant lawyer Andy Carpenter is relieved to be headed back to Paterson, New Jersey, after a week-long family vacation in the Adirondacks. He's ready to put the holly jolly season way behind him and settle in at home with his three dogs. But when they finally arrive, there is an extra dog eagerly awaiting them, as well as one anxious dog sitter.

When the dog showed up on the doorstep a few days ago, the sitter knew Andy would know what to do. Indeed, Andy recognizes Murphy, who the Carpenters fostered before the dog went home with BJ Bremer and his mother. BJ wanted to learn all he could about caring for Murphy, which made Andy like him immediately.

When Andy goes to take Murphy back to the Bremers, though, instead of the happy reunion he expects, he finds BJ's mother in tears. It turns out Murphy ran off…after BJ was arrested for murder. Andy had hoped for a quiet Christmas vacation, but he likes Murphy’s family and his golden retriever, Tara, likes Murphy, so he can't resist getting involved. The case isn’t as simple as Andy thought it would be, though, with BJ suspected of murdering one of his professors. With nothing to go on but Andy's own conviction in BJ's dog-loving character, proving his innocence would be a Christmas miracle.

t's always cause for rejoicing when a new David Rosenfelt novel is available, and The More the Terrier, book #30 in the Andy Carpenter series, is no exception. Those familiar with the series will already know that defense attorney Andy is never really looking for new cases, having inherited enough money to make him independently wealthy. But somehow he always gets sucked in when the defendant is a friend, or a friend of a friend.

In this case, it's a 19-year-old college freshman who adopted one of Andy's foundation’s rescue dogs a few years back and has never been in any legal trouble. Now, however, he is languishing in jail and saddled with an incompetent defender, waiting for his trial. Brian has been accused of murdering his professor after a very public argument broke out in class between them. There's even evidence showing he had the victim’s stolen belongings hidden in his apartment.

I enjoyed the compelling mystery, the usual cast of familiar characters: Andy’s legal team (including his investigator wife), his cop and newspaper editor drinking and eating buddies, and his three dogs, each with its own distinct personality. What was missing for me was the usual level of Andy's signature snarkiness and hilarious comments. I love all of the books in this series, although this was not one of my favorites.

My thanks to St Martin's Press /Minotaur Books and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and provide an honest review of this book.

Andy Carpenter is headed back to New Jersey after a family vacation in the Adirondacks. Upon arrival a stray dog is on his door step. It turns out to be Murphy , a dog he placed with the Bremer family. he returns the dog only to find Mrs Bremer in tears. Her son BJ has been arrested for murder. Andy reluctantly takes on the case. The book is filled with humor, dog tales and courtroom drama.

Another amazing (and hilarious) mystery for attorney Andy Carpenter. Andy is an excellent lawyer, but he would really prefer not to take on cases. As often happens, his love of dogs will bring a new case to his door…literally. College student BJ Bremer has been accused of murdering his professor. He was called to the professor’s home only to find that the professor had been murdered. Andy calls together his team, even Edna who is once again available to act as the secretary, to begin the investigation. Andy’s team includes his wife Laurie, a former police officer, Corey, also a former police officer and Marcus, who is difficult to describe other than to say you NEVER want to have Marcus as an enemy. The professor was working on an irreversible computer virus which has caught the interest of the Russians. The investigation will involve the metaverse and this gives Andy’s computer guru free reign to practice his skills. Andy knows that his case isn’t as solid as he would like, but will he be able to keep his client from prison for a murder he didn’t commit? This is a must-read series for those who enjoy a wickedly smart mystery from the first page to the thrilling end! I received an advance review copy at no cost and without obligation for an honest review. (paytonpuppy)

I don't know how David Rosenfelt cranks these out, but I enjoy them every. Single. Time.
His wit and humor balances out the heavier topics, and this cast of characters is so lovable.
BJ is one of my favorite defendants that Andy has represented, and Murphy is adorable!