Dog-Gone Dead by Jackie Layton has Andi Grace Scott and her best friend, Juliet Reed out early to pick up mulch from her brother, Nate. They arrive to find Corey Lane dead under a pile of mulch and her brother who looks like he has gone three rounds in the fighting ring. Nate’s tools had been used to kill Corey which has him in handcuffs. Andi Grace has no choice but to dive into the case and track down the real killer. Dog-Gone Dead is the 2nd book in A Low Country Dog Walker Mystery. I had not had the pleasure of reading Bite the Dust, and I found that this did not hinder my reading experience. Everything a reader needs to know is included. There are realistic characters and a small-town feel. I like it when the characters have flaws and struggles. Andi Grace is close to her siblings and her best friend Juliet is like another sister. Andi Grace is busy turning the plantation she inherited into a bed and breakfast with Juliet plus building up her dog walking business. She also has plans for the barn on the estate. But when her brother is accused of a crime, Andi Grace does not hesitate to investigate. There mystery has interesting clues and red herrings that will have you doubting if you arrived at the correct solution. It is fun following Andi Grace along with her family and friends as they work to catch the killer. I was happy that there was a complete wrap up of the case. I could have done without the endless speculation and the repetition of case details. There are sweet and loyal dogs in this story plus puppies (a little three legged one). I Love how much Andi Grace cares for animals. There is romance in the air in Heyward Beach. Andi Grace is dating a lawyer who makes her heartbeat faster. Juliet would love for Nate to see her in a romantic light. Prayer and faith are lightly touched upon in the story. Dog-Gone Dead is a cute cozy with delightful dogs, vibrant VW Bug, murderous mulch, a set-up sibling, curious clues, and a stubborn, sleuthing sister. ( )

murder, murder-investigation, cozy-mystery, amateur-sleuth, law-enforcement, lawyers, family, family-dynamics, friendship, pets, infidelity, small-business, small-town*****

Andi Grace is rather more than a dog walker but also does dog rescue placement and obedience training and is still feels responsible for her siblings that she raised after their parents died in an auto wreck (even though they are now adults). The brother who is a landscaper has been concussed but is the chief suspect for a murder as he was at the scene and without verifiable alibi. Let the sleuthing begin! This book comfortably stands alone.
The characters are wonderful, the world building is great, and the dogs are really special.
I really loved it and had to finish it in one day!
I requested and received a free temporary ebook copy from Bell Bridge Books via NetGalley. Thank you! ( )