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andimontgomery's review against another edition
4.0
I enjoyed this first book in the Timber Creek K-9 Mysteries series featuring Deputy Mattie and her new K-9 partner, Robo, based in Colorado. While I don’t often listen to audiobooks, this one was available for free in the Audible Plus catalog, and it was well worth the time.
Mattie is on her first day back on the job after training for three months to work with Robo. When an injured dog is discovered next to a dead body, Mattie and Robo get involved in the investigation.
Mattie is reserved based on her traumatic childhood, but is a methodical, kind, and empathetic deputy. And she loves Robo, as evident in her care for him. I liked her character very much.
This was a multilayered mystery with excellent pacing and several potential suspects. I appreciated that the author wrote a mostly “clean” story as well. It was just a bit more gritty than a typical “cozy” mystery in its intent and delivery. There was a bit of disturbing animal cruelty that turned my stomach, but no animals died as a result.
Several supporting characters were standouts, including Dr. Cole Walker (the local veterinarian), Stella (a detective brought in from the city to assist with the investigation), and dispatcher Rainbow (who befriends Mattie). I hope to learn more about them in future installments.
Nancy Wu was an excellent reader, and I’ll definitely continue this series on audio!
Content Warnings
Moderate: Animal cruelty