Andy Carpenter
Books in Order.
Start with Open and Shut (2002) and read in publication order. Andy Carpenter is a New Jersey defense attorney and dog rescuer, and each courtroom mystery is self-contained, though the recurring cast builds across the series.
The complete reading order for the Andy Carpenter series by David Rosenfelt. Below you'll find the authoritative guide on how to read the books in order, including publication dates and chronological timeline placements.
Where to start
Start with Open and Shut (2002) and read in publication order. Andy Carpenter is a New Jersey defense attorney and dog rescuer, and each courtroom mystery is self-contained, though the recurring cast builds across the series.
- •The Christmas-themed books (The Twelve Dogs of Christmas, Deck the Hounds, Dachshund Through the Snow, Silent Bite, Best in Snow, Santa's Little Yelpers, 'Twas the Bite Before Christmas, The More the Terrier, And to All a Good Bite and Bark Humbug) are numbered within the main series on order lists, so they are included in publication order.
- •Dogged Pursuit (2025) is a prequel. It is listed in publication order, and readers who prefer chronological order can read it first.
- •Going Mutts (2027) is announced but unpublished, so it is left out of the list.
- •The K Team books (The K Team, Animal Instinct, Citizen K-9, Good Dog, Bad Cop) are a spin-off series and are not listed here.
At a Glance
- First Book:Open and Shut
- Latest Book:Bark Humbug
- Timeline:2002 - 2026
Complete Series Reading Order
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View on Amazon →Frequently Asked Questions
What order should I read Andy Carpenter in?
Start with Open and Shut (2002) and read in publication order. Andy Carpenter is a New Jersey defense attorney and dog rescuer, and each courtroom mystery is self-contained, though the recurring cast builds across the series.
How many books are in Andy Carpenter?
34 main books, published 2002–2026.
Can I read Andy Carpenter out of order?
It's best not to. The books build on each other, so reading out of order spoils earlier twists.
Is there a chronological order for Andy Carpenter?
Yes. In story order the series begins with "Dogged Pursuit" rather than "Open and Shut". Switch the list below to Chronological to see the full timeline.