David Rosenfelt Books in Order

This reading order guide provides the complete list of David Rosenfelt books in order, from the very first to the latest, so you won’t miss anything!

David Rosenfelt is a beloved name among fans of mystery and legal thrillers, best known for creating the witty, dog-loving defense attorney Andy Carpenter. Hailing from Paterson, New Jersey, Rosenfelt didn’t start his career dreaming of writing novels. In fact, his journey to becoming a bestselling author took several unexpected turns — from corporate boardrooms to Hollywood film sets and finally to the world of books, where he found his true calling.

David studied business administration at New York University, aiming to enter the corporate world. Thanks to a well-timed interview (his uncle just happened to be the president of United Artists), he began working in the film industry. He eventually rose to become the President of Marketing at Tri-Star Pictures, overseeing major film campaigns and learning the ins and outs of storytelling — a skill that would later become central to his writing style. Despite the glamour of Hollywood, David began to feel a pull toward something more personal and creative.

That led him to screenwriting, particularly for television and made-for-TV movies. While he had some moderate success, the spark truly ignited when he turned to novel writing. With his background in screenwriting, David’s books naturally adopted a fast-paced, cinematic style — full of quick dialogue, well-timed scenes, and engaging plot twists. His debut novel, Open and Shut, introduced the world to Andy Carpenter, a sharp, sarcastic attorney who would go on to become one of the most endearing characters in modern legal fiction.

One of the most unique aspects of Rosenfelt’s work is his deep love for dogs. Dogs don’t just appear in his books — they’re central to the heart of his stories. Andy Carpenter’s loyal Golden Retriever, Tara, isn’t just a pet; she’s a character in her own right, often offering silent wisdom and comfort in tense situations. This isn’t just fiction for Rosenfelt — it reflects his real life. Alongside his wife, he founded the Tara Foundation, a dog rescue organization named after their cherished Golden Retriever. This foundation has saved over 4,000 dogs, and at times, the Rosenfelts have personally cared for over 20 dogs in their home.

David’s passion for animal welfare deeply influences his storytelling. His books often explore themes of justice, loyalty, and compassion — not just for humans, but for animals too. It’s this heartwarming blend of humor, legal drama, and canine companionship that sets his novels apart. Readers don’t just follow a mystery — they connect with characters who feel real, and often fall in love with the dogs just as much as the humans.

Although the Andy Carpenter series is his most recognized work, David Rosenfelt has also written several standalone thrillers, showcasing his range and talent beyond recurring characters. Yet no matter the story, his voice remains consistent: clever, engaging, and full of heart.

Interestingly, Rosenfelt never imagined himself as a dog lover or an author when he was younger. He grew up in a typical middle-class family, the second of three brothers, and enjoyed a happy childhood filled with sports and school. But life, as it often does, took unexpected turns. Looking back, David often reflects on how surprising it is to find himself surrounded by dogs and devoted readers alike.

Today, he continues to write regularly, often publishing at least one book each year. His loyal fanbase eagerly awaits each new release, knowing they’ll be treated to clever courtroom drama, heartwarming dog moments, and plenty of laugh-out-loud dialogue. For Rosenfelt, writing isn’t just a career — it’s a way of sharing his love for storytelling, justice, and, of course, dogs.

If you’re new to David Rosenfelt’s world, the Andy Carpenter series is a perfect place to start. And if you’re already a fan, you know that with every book, you’re not just reading a mystery — you’re stepping into a world where dogs are heroes, justice matters, and laughter is guaranteed.