First Degree

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.

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.