Andy Carpenter Books in Order

This reading order guide provides the complete list of Andy Carpenter books in order and is always updated, so you won’t miss anything. Whether you’re a first-time reader or a returning fan, this guide will help you follow the series in the correct order.

About the Andy Carpenter Series

If you love legal thrillers with a heart, a dose of humor, and some four-legged companions, then the Andy Carpenter series by David Rosenfelt is one you shouldn’t miss. This bestselling series has won the hearts of mystery lovers and dog enthusiasts alike. At its center is Andy Carpenter — a reluctant but brilliant defense attorney based in Paterson, New Jersey, who would much rather spend time with his Golden Retriever than argue in court. But life, crime, and conscience keep pulling him back into the courtroom.

What makes Andy different from your typical fictional lawyer is his voice. He’s witty, sarcastic, and doesn’t take himself too seriously — even when the stakes are sky-high. He inherited $22 million under mysterious circumstances after his father’s death, and that’s when his life took an unexpected turn. With financial security and a sharp legal mind, Andy could easily retire. But there’s always a case he can’t walk away from — especially if there’s a dog or an underdog involved.

David Rosenfelt, the author behind the series, writes with a style that’s light and fast-paced, but never lacking in emotional depth. His love for dogs shines through every page, and it’s no coincidence — both Rosenfelt and his fictional hero share a deep devotion to rescuing dogs. In fact, Andy’s loyal companion Tara is more than just a pet; she’s a comforting presence and, at times, even an inspiration when cases get complicated.

The series begins with “Open and Shut” (2002), where readers meet Andy for the first time. This opening novel sets the tone with a gripping legal mystery, family secrets, and the beginning of a personal journey for Andy. As he digs into a suspiciously large inheritance and uncovers corruption that goes deeper than he expected, Andy is transformed from a laid-back attorney into a reluctant seeker of justice. The humor and heart already shine through from book one, which is why many fans recommend starting the series at the beginning for the best experience.

In “First Degree” (2003), the second book, the stakes become even more personal. Andy finds himself defending Laurie Collins, a tough and smart private investigator who also happens to be his love interest. Laurie is framed for the murder of a police officer, and Andy is forced to go all in — emotionally and legally. Their relationship, which started with friction and respect, begins to evolve into something deeper. This book shows a new side of Andy — one that’s more vulnerable but still full of wit and determination.

And the excitement doesn’t stop there. In “Bury the Lead”, Andy defends a young journalist who becomes the unexpected target of a serial killer. It’s a fast-paced story full of suspense and danger, where Andy’s usual casual attitude is tested as threats come closer to home. These cases are never just about winning in court — they’re about protecting lives, uncovering hidden truths, and sometimes, keeping a low profile while things fall apart around him.

What really stands out in the Andy Carpenter series is the balance between humor, suspense, and heart. Andy often pretends that he wants a quiet life, but deep down, he can’t resist stepping in when justice is at stake. He fights for clients who have no one else, often working pro bono or simply because he feels it’s the right thing to do. He doesn’t care about power or status — and he has no problem calling out the powerful in court with clever quips and cutting questions.

Readers love Andy because he feels real. He’s not a perfect hero — he’s flawed, lazy when he can be, but fiercely loyal when it matters. Whether he’s facing dangerous criminals, courtroom dramas, or just figuring out his complicated relationships, Andy is someone you root for.

David Rosenfelt’s writing style makes the books easy to read and hard to put down. Each title adds something new to Andy’s journey, from deepening relationships to thrilling legal twists. And with each new release, fans eagerly wait to see what case Andy will stumble into next — and how Tara will help sniff out the truth.

So, whether you’re discovering this series for the first time or re-reading it in order, the Andy Carpenter books promise clever plots, lovable characters, and a lot of dog love. For the best experience, it’s recommended to start from the beginning and enjoy how Andy’s story — both personal and professional — unfolds with each new book.

How many books are there in the Andy Carpenter series?

There are a total of 32 Andy Capenter books. The series, written by David Rosenfelt, includes the following titles in order: