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David Rosenfelt
David Rosenfelt writes legal thrillers and mysteries, including the Andy Carpenter series. His books like Open and Shut and One Dog Night often mix courtroom drama with a dry sense of humor. He is also the
First Degree
Synopsis
Defense attorney Andy Carpenter usually prefers the company of his golden retriever to the courtroom, but his latest case hits dangerously close to home. When his lead investigator and girlfriend, Laurie Collins, is arrested for the brutal murder of a police officer, Andy must shake off his professional burnout to clear her name. He faces a race against time and a mounting pile of evidence to find the real killer before the woman he loves is lost to the system.
Genres
Characters
Andy CarpenterProtagonist
Laurie CollinsSupporting
TaraSupporting
Frequently asked questions
Does First Degree need to be read in order?
While First Degree introduces Andy Carpenter and his world, it is the second book in the series. Readers new to the author's work can start here without feeling lost, as the core mystery is self-contained.
How does First Degree compare to David Rosenfelt's later books?
First Degree establishes many of the signature elements of Rosenfelt's style, including the blend of legal procedural with humor and the prominent role of dogs. Later books in the series continue these trends, but this novel is notable for its slightly more serious tone given the personal stakes for the protagonist.