Setting
is in Maine
Murder Mystery Series by
Professional Dog Trainer Lee Charles Kelley....
Books for dog loving mystery fans
Reviewed by Barb Radmore
So what is it that is so very appealing about this series? Maybe for me
it is the setting- my own adopted state of Maine. Or could it be the
characters? Jack Field, ex New York detective, is the owner of a dog
kennel/ training business. He is usually in the company of or thinking
about Jamie Cutter, the Medical Examiner. Living with Jack is his
foster son, 'Duke" a crime victim from NYC. A steady, well written cast
of characters
traveling from one book to another to make this a cohesive, fun group
of
books to read. The starring roles though are assigned to the various
dogs that populate the scenes. Much space is also given to dog training
tips- a system based on play and praise.
Kelley writes with his tongue firmly planted in his cheek. He seems to
understand that Jack makes Sherlock Holmes seem dense and plots are
more interesting when they appear impossible. The asides
and comments to the reader draw the casual reader into his world. He
cleverly admits that these are just good mystery stories that are
enjoyable to read- and what more can we ask from a cozy?
(Next step would be a top rated tv show! Anyone out there know any
producers..but remember it was my idea first!)
Three Hints for reading this series:
1. It is not neccesary to read them in the order written but would be
more enjoyable to follow the continuing plot lines in order.
2. Just remember- the dog is always innocent ! (oops- is that a
spoiler?)
3. If you do not have a dog when you start the series you probably will
by the end!
Nose for Murder
This is the first book in the series. A great introduction
to the characters, setting and style. Airedale Ginger is the only
witness when Allison DiMarco dies on her kitchen floor with no obvious
signs of foul play. It is up to Jack and Jamie to prove that it was not
a
natural death.
(And Kelley introduces us to the the word "sniggled" which does
perfectly
describe a half snort half giggle.)
Murder Unleashed
Roark, a boxer, seems to be
the only possible murderer of a Supreme Court justice
when he is found in the car with the
judge and the judge's throat is torn apart. Jack knows,
of course, that Roark is innocent. With his usual ability to link
seemingly unrelated
information he and Jamie set off to prove that the death is not what it
seems.
An all dog star cast gives this book its delightful ending.
To Collar a Killer
Tipper, a corgi, and Jack are
playing fetch at the July 4th picnic when they discover a dead body.
Whan all the clues point to Jack as the murderer he must put all
the pieces together to
figure out who is trying to frame him.
'Twas the Bite Before Christmas
Jack has never been big on
Christmas spirit. When he and Jamie get embroiled in the murder
of a maid
in a near by mansion, his cold will not get better and he is shot at,
hit in the head, it only seems to
reinforce his feelings about the holiday. Add some elvin magic,
lots of dogs and the Russian mob and
Jack may be done with holidays forever.
Dogged Pursuit
On sale June 26...
Will Jack and Jamie finally be able to tie the knot? Or will the body
found in a local lake ruin their plans one more time?
Jack's ex-girl friend's step daughter disappears as the Jack pieces
together the trail of danger from her past that
threatens her present and may end her chances for a future.
(In this book we learn the word snorgle- a snort and giggle)
CONTEST: This is just for our fun- not sanctioned by Lee
Charles Kelley- write in what you think would be the best title for the
next book in the series. Send me your ideas and the one I like best
will win a copy of Dogged Pursuit. Entries close August 15.
Submit your ideas here to editor