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3.75 AVERAGE
3.75 AVERAGE
3.5
I was entertained by this novel on my commute. There were moments though that made me question the author. Like when she lumps moose in with large carrion animals or when her protagonists constantly feed their dogs on diets of pizza, burgers, whatever else the human is eating. That being said, I liked the characters and the setting, and will gladly listen to the second in the series on my next commute.
I was entertained by this novel on my commute. There were moments though that made me question the author. Like when she lumps moose in with large carrion animals or when her protagonists constantly feed their dogs on diets of pizza, burgers, whatever else the human is eating. That being said, I liked the characters and the setting, and will gladly listen to the second in the series on my next commute.
adventurous
emotional
mysterious
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
No
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
A solid start to a series featuring a retired MP and her service dog, both with PTSD. It would appeal to anyone who loves dogs, hiking, Vermont, Shakespeare, art, retired military, etc in their mysteries. I think that’s why I liked it, but didn’t live it. Just too much going on for my tastes. I would recommend it though.
I really, really wanted to love this book. It seemed like the perfect story for the mood I am in and I adore K9 stories.
The dogs were wonderful and it was a twisty and compelling mystery (I read it in one sitting on a lazy Sunday), but I found the characters a little too bland and two-dimensional. Motivation was laid out well for both characters, but somehow it only covered the surface. I didn't quite believe it all the way.
Also, not once in the book do these two dog handlers/trainers feed their dogs actual dog food. Instead they made them sandwiches or fed them hot dogs. My exposure to K9 training comes only from books, so I am by no means an expert, but the way they treated the dogs didn't seem in line with what a trainer would do. I understand Mercy is "retired", but Troy and Susie Bear are supposed to be a search-and-rescue team.
Overall a good read and may very well be perfect for another reader, but it didn't quite work for me.
The dogs were wonderful and it was a twisty and compelling mystery (I read it in one sitting on a lazy Sunday), but I found the characters a little too bland and two-dimensional. Motivation was laid out well for both characters, but somehow it only covered the surface. I didn't quite believe it all the way.
Also, not once in the book do these two dog handlers/trainers feed their dogs actual dog food. Instead they made them sandwiches or fed them hot dogs. My exposure to K9 training comes only from books, so I am by no means an expert, but the way they treated the dogs didn't seem in line with what a trainer would do. I understand Mercy is "retired", but Troy and Susie Bear are supposed to be a search-and-rescue team.
Overall a good read and may very well be perfect for another reader, but it didn't quite work for me.
I saw the second book in the series at the library and it sounded really good so thought I'd better read the first book to see if it was any good. Really enjoyed it and the characters were all likeable, except Harrington. I like stories with working dogs. I'll definitely get the next book out at some stage.
adventurous
mysterious
slow-paced
There is a lot to love in this book.
There are dogs, characters you love, a well written story...did I mention dogs?
I love that the writer has written a mystery that for the most part has no guns (I sometimes think that writers who go to the gun show a lack of imagination).
It's not perfect. It's a little rough around the edges. The writer chose to devote the last chapter to explaining all the things which probably should have been revealed throughout the story. But it's so close to 5 Stars.
This author has managed to become a favorite in just one book and I can hardly wait to see where this series goes.
There are dogs, characters you love, a well written story...did I mention dogs?
I love that the writer has written a mystery that for the most part has no guns (I sometimes think that writers who go to the gun show a lack of imagination).
It's not perfect. It's a little rough around the edges. The writer chose to devote the last chapter to explaining all the things which probably should have been revealed throughout the story. But it's so close to 5 Stars.
This author has managed to become a favorite in just one book and I can hardly wait to see where this series goes.
4.5 stars. Terrific mystery! I loved the characters in this - both human and animal. I hope there will be more books with these characters. I would read a series like this without hesitation. The mystery was great - there was a lot going on with the explosives and the baby and the bones - and the questions didn't stop there. Everything wrapped up in the end but these characters still have stories to tell. Highly recommend.
Steady, even pace. Interesting plot and characters, and great descriptions of the dogs and other animals. Liked the Cat Ladies and their rescue operation. Overall an easy and interesting read.
medium-paced