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Book Review of Open and Shut (Andy Carpenter, Bk 1) (Audio CD) (Unabridged)

Open and Shut (Andy Carpenter, Bk 1) (Audio CD) (Unabridged)
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With this opening novel, David Rosenfelt brings an irreverent, sassy new lawyer to the scene. I knew Andy Carpenter would be a good guy when his best friend turned out to be a dog, Tara (a wonderful golden retriever).

In Andys opening case, I couldnt believe the judge didnt censure him for the juvenile prank he used to get his client off. Andys father, a prominent and revered jurist, suggested that Andy try real preparation instead of using circus tricks in court; fortunately, Andy took his advice through the rest of the book.

At the opening, defense lawyer Andy watches in shock as his famous father dies suddenly (while they are watching a baseball game). Mr. Carpenters death unearths mysteries that Andy has no idea how to grasp or understand. Where did the $22 million come from that Andy has inherited from his father? Why did his father want him to pursue a retrial for Willie Miller, a man on death row that he (the father) had prosecuted?

Besides coping with his fathers sudden death, Andy has personal problems. While separated from his wife Nicole, Andy has become interested in his private investigator, Laurie Collins. Now, Nicole wants another chance to straighten out their marriage.

This book is fast-paced, snappy and just plain fun to read. The secondary characters and Andy banter and toss sarcastic barbs at each other with abandon. I thought the book was well-balanced between serious issues and comical asides a great read.

Andy Carpenter Series
1. Open and Shut (2002)
2. First Degree (2003)
3. Bury the Lead (2004)
4. Sudden Death (2005)