First Degree

By: David Rosenfelt

Narrated by: Grover Gardner

Length: 6 hrs and 40 mins

Publisher's summary

Nominated for the Edgar and Shamus Awards, David Rosenfelt's debut novel, Open and Shut, was widely praised by listeners and critics. Rosenfelt returned with this riveting mystery, First Degree, featuring irreverent and dynamic lawyer Andy Carpenter.

When a cop's body is found burned and decapitated, the last thing Andy Carpenter expected is for a stranger to waltz into his office and admit to the crime. For the wise-cracking millionaire defense attorney suffering from "lawyer's block", the case looks like a no-brainer...until the cops pick up another suspect: Andy's lead P.I., Laurie Collins, who happens to be the love of his life.

Soon Laurie's facing conviction for the grisly murder and Andy must desperately try to save her. All he had wanted was a case to sink his teeth into. Now he gets one that's a kick in the head - and the heart.

Crack another case with Andy Carpenter.

©2004 David Rosenfelt (P)2008 Listen & Live Audio, Inc.

Critic reviews

"Rosenfelt should win a unanimous verdict: first-rate." ( Publishers Weekly)
"As satisfying as the nuts and bolts of the case are, it's the sheer likability of Andy and the odd assortment of his friends and staff that lifts the story from merely enjoyable to genuinely delightful." ( Publishers Weekly)

Fun and entertaining.

A good listen. Plot good with interesting twist. Interesting in light of recent new story of Orange County woman framed by couple angry with her. A believable story plot that keeps the interest.

First Three Books in Series

The Andy Carpenter series by David Rosenfelt were very enjoyable to listen to. There is always a mystery whereby Andy and his team search for the answers. They were, Open and Shut, First Degree and Bury the Lead.

Laurie is the most beautiful woman in the world and the love of Andy's life. She also works as Andy's PI.

Steve was an attorney and now runs a lawyer-mat. He was unable to be a defense lawyer because he was afraid of letting a guilty client get away with a crime. Also, he couldn't be a prosecutor because he might send an innocent person to jail. Therefore, he offered free advice to his customers.

Laurie suggested that he come and join Andy in his law firm. After an interview both men felt comfortable and Steve began working with both Andy and Laurie.

Steve would do most of the paper work involved in a court case such as the briefs. This gave Andy more time to work on the case itself.

Edna, arrived at work an hour late everyday at 10am. She was the best person Andy had ever known to do crossword puzzles so fast and have all the answers correct. Edna could also do the Times newspaper crossword puzzle in 20 minutes. Sometimes, she might even answer the telephone.

Tara, the most beautiful and smart golden retriever, is also a part of the team and lives with Andy. She was rescued by Andy at the SPCA. Andy gave Tara her forever home.

The books are interlaced with a lot of humor which is another reason why I like to listen to these books. The books aren't long and I can usually listen to them in one day. Grover Gardener is the narrator and is just right for these books. The characters are emulated by Gardener perfectly. I'm sure if you purchase these books you will find them to be a pleasant listen.

Love, kove, LOVE!

Juuust in case you already couldn't tell from my title, I absolutely LOVED Andy Carpenter's sequel as muh as I loved book (Which should be read/listened to in that order; bk1→bk2→bk3, etc.

Well written, excellently delivered by a narrator who's voice fits the roles soooo aptly, and I am happy to hv found a wonderful supplement for my L&O/CSI/Bones passion!

Book 3, here I come!

Mystery with humor

The humor contained within the mystery were so much fun. Had a few "oh my gosh" moments. Worth the time to listen, it was so entertaining.

"Don't Forget the Jelly Donuts"

Would you recommend this audiobook to a friend? If so, why?

yes, as it demonstrates author's ability to develop a mystery, have justice for all, and bring in the human element e.g.: Willie and Andy chasing the dog.

What other book might you compare First Degree to and why?

this series leads with sarcastic humor, so if you like it, then you will love this series. Once hooked, you will buy lots and listen to a couple in a row.

Which character – as performed by Grover Gardner – was your favorite?

Love Vince in this story. Reader out does himself in every book on a special character in the "crew".

Any additional comments?

These are simple mysteries that compel you to buy the next book. I am on to my 5th, but I have them out of order, so I can see the maturity of the author as he draws the characterization of the "crew". Hint, it gets better and better.

Almost as good as the 1st book!

I really enjoyed the book, but found the ending a little underwhelming. It had good humor as the first novel did.

Another triump!!

As always Delightful interesting suspenseful funny full of surprises Excellent writing!
Overall performance excellent
Can’t wait for next one ! Love the cast!!

Twists and turns

Twists and turns, no clear path to "who done it," kept me interested to the end.

Rosenfelt's Terrific Especially With Gardner

I try not to use the word, "WOW!" So I'm plucking it out of the bag, blowing off the dust and hurling it at you. Now I cannot imagine Rosenfelt NOT BEING HEARD WITHOUT GARDNER! But... but... Andy Carpenter belongs to Rosenfelt and his super smart narrative glimmers. The plot's bullet perfect. And every character in this courtroom ensemble belongs. I'm off to purchase the next Rosenfelt novel to hear his new flow of ideas and feel them through, I hope, Gardner's interpretation.

This book cannot be better in print or video. IT ROCKS in audible and why I listen to books. WOW!

Absolute fun

Andy Carpenter is a witty, clever and talented lawyer. He`,s also very rich so he can pick and choose his clients. That's a good thing for us. It ensures we always get a good story, with really good guys and really bad guys. Grover Gardner does an excellant job reading this story. This is my second Andy Carpenter and surely not the last one `I hear.