In the previous thirty entries in this mystery series, Andy Carpenter is a rich defense attorney, who really, really, really, wants to retire but just keeps getting sucked into one more case. To be honest, it was getting a bit repetitive, though Andy’s snarky humor always makes me come back for more. However, Dogged Pursuit is a prequel to Andy’s story and brings back some of the joy and ambition lost in the latest books.
Andy has just crossed over from prosecution to the defense. He is dirt poor and his marriage is sliding downwards into despair. To combat that, Andy gets a rescue Golden Retriever, Tara (arguably my favorite character in the whole series).
Andy feels sorry for Tara’s cage mate at the pound, Sonny, and so wants to adopt him too. But there’s a problem, Sonny’s owner, Frank, is awaiting trial for multiple murders and must give permission for the dog to be adopted. Frank, being smart, trades his permission for Andy acting as his defense attorney.
It was great to see Andy and Tara’s backstory. But it was even better to see Andy not be as grumpy as he is in the latter parts of his life. However, don’t worry Andy is still as funny and sarcastic as usual. His trial work is, as always, one of the best parts of the plot. And I loved meeting Tara as a puppy. Overall, Dogged Pursuit is a series entry that doesn’t disappoint! 5 stars!
Thanks to NetGalley and Minotaur Books for providing me with an advanced review copy.