Paw of the Jungle

This is a fun and entertaining read that has Megan and k-9 Bridget on the hunt for poachers that repeatedly steal beloved animals from the zoo. As community outrage and pressure to find the poachers mounts, Megan and Bridget work long hours trying to solve the crimes. Add in an the additional puzzling disappearance of expensive rings just in time for Christmas and Megan and Bridget are working overtime to serve the community.

This book has all the humor you would expect in one of the author's books, along with commentary from k-9 Bridget....if only Megan could understand what Bridget is trying to tell her.

I'm giving this four stars because, while it is an enjoyable book, at times it seemed to lag. However, even with this, it is well worth putting on your TBR list. The author is on my must read authors' list.

Paw of the Jungle by Diane Kelly 5 star or [5 liver treats]

The 2019 entry in the Paw Enforcement Series after last years "The Long Paw of the Law" is a total delight. This series has never been a disappointment and this entry kept me guessing on who the criminal was.

Officer Megan Luz and her K-9 partner Brigit are on the case of missing animals from the Fort Worth zoo. First it was a pair of macaws, then a monkey; who will the next victim be? The public is clamoring for answers and there are multiple avenues of investigation that includes exotic animal smugglers and trophy hunters. Will Officer Luz and Brigit save the next victim from being killed? You have the read the book to find out.

The dialogue is always the star in this series. There is one part that said Brigit wasn't in law enforcement for the glory.. She was in it for the liver treats. I adore the parts where Brigit is speaking and seeing her side of the story. And for those who enjoy the Megan and Seth interaction, you will not be disappointed. I eagerly await the next installment of the Paw Enforcement series.

P.S. I hope there will a future cameo of Tara Holloway and family. I miss her.

Thank you Netgalley and St. Martins Paperback for this ARC.

This book was a really fun read! I was wondering if this book was going to be like Laying Down the Paw, because I really wanted the custodian to be innocent. I really enjoyed how it all played out, because we while don't get the same thing, I really enjoyed the direction it took!

As always as I can remember, there's 2 mysteries in this book. The first, the main one, is the missing animals from the zoo. The other is the disappearance of jewelry. Both cases caused frustration, but on the former caused heartbreak, because the poor animals, they were taken and who knows what could've happened to them!

When we were in the Poacher's head, I felt bad, because there were people in his life who didn't deserve to have what he was doing affecting their lives, and if and when he got caught, well, they're not the ones who did anything, but it's going to cost them, as well!

That ending was pretty intense, with a car chase and all. Plus the end ending, which was just a lot of fun to read, and has me really excited for the next book, because I just want to know what's going to happen next! I can't wait to find out!

This book was fantastic, and I can't wait for more from this series. Especially after that ending!

Good read from Diane Kelly. We meet Megan again with her canine sidekick Bridgit. This time they are focusing on a mystery of animals going missing from the zoo. The chapters switch between perspectives of various characters in the book. This is an interesting idea that works in this series. I like reading things from Bridgit's perspective and how she helps her human partner solve crime. We also get to see a perspective from the criminal as he commits his crime. This can lead us to give him sympathy or create more of a desire to see him caught. Either way, it brings you into the story and gets you involved.

The author knows how to tell a story with an intriguing mystery that piqued my curiosity that I could not put down until all was said and done. The narrative was visually descriptive with engaging dialogue that put me in the middle of all the action as they hunt for the person responsible. I do like how the everything came into play as the story progressed with a few surprises that added to my reading pleasure. Bonus is reading Brigit’s thoughts as well as the other characters who were pivotal to the telling of this entertaining whodunit. And the ending. . . perfect!

The story starts out where Megan takes her dog to the zoo for a walk and she thought would be a nice walk till she finds out 2 of their birds go missing. I just love how you started the mystery right away. And the new guy at the zoo was who they thought it was. But they thought something more fishy going on since the birds worth a lot of money. Every time I thought I had the person I was wrong. You did a good job keeping me guessing till the end. You can’t go wrong with this book.

This is one of my favorite series. I know Officer Megan Luz and her canine partner Brigit will always deliver laughter and interesting mysteries. Getting the canine point of view is one I look forward to. Diane Kelly has definitely mastered the canine language.

In Paw of the Jungle someone is stealing valuable zoo animals and no one can figure out how it's happening.
The zoo is a regular stopping point for Megan and Brigit when they're on patrol so Megan is happy to help Detective Bustemente work the thefts. Her goal is to one day become a detective. Her willingness to put in the extra time and effort is a step in that direction.

No Megan and Brigit story would be complete without Seth and his dog Blast. Seth is Megan's hunky firefighter, bomb squad boyfriend; Blast is his bomb sniffing dog and Brigit's BFF. I can't tell you about their Christmas gift exchange but I can say I will be waiting impatiently for the next book.

I received an Advanced Reader's Copy from St Martin's Press through NetGalley.The opinions expressed are entirely my own.

I have read other books in this series so I knew going in it would be a decent read. Brigit, the dog, has her perspective on events and is very much Megan’s partner in solving crime. The author sprinkled in fun facts about the animals in the zoo so I learned a thing or two as well. Overall, a cute, well-written mystery with a romance element. I would recommend it to everyone who loves this genre.
Thank you to NetGalley, the publisher and the author for allowing me to read this ARC.

Paw of the Jungle is a fabulous mystery with great characters and storyline. This would be a great gift for the holidays.

Fun cozy mystery. While I didn't find it as good as previous ones I read, it still kept me interested and engaged. Brigit is a great partner and the characters are fun and hard working. a few twists you might not expect make you want to keep reading.

A story with animals always grabs a reader, but this one won't let go until the end. With disappearing animals, a supposedly likely suspect, and clues that just keep you guessing, this book is definitely full of twists, turns, and fun.

I have read all the books in the series, which helped with my enjoyment of this one. The writing was good and the two cases interesting. Since I live in the town the book is set in, I know all the streets and places that are mentioned in the book. This makes the book more fun. I like Officer Megan and her dog Bridgit. I did wish we had more background and read more about the other characters in the book. They were all mentioned but more would have fleshed the book out. I do like hearing Bridget the dog’s point of view which is very funny. Thank you, Net Galley, for an advanced copy to read for an honest review.

I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Wonderfully entertaining book! So glad to see someone write a K-9 member into a story. I highly recommend this book to someone that is looking for an easy to read, fun mystery. Enjoy! 📚

Paw of the Jungle: A Laying Down the Law Mystery
By Diane Kelly
St. Martin’s Paperbacks
December 2019

Review by Cynthia Chow

If there’s one thing that Forth Worth Police Officer Megan Luz knows, it’s that nothing is ever all black or all white. That’s never more apparent than during the Christmas holiday season, when desperation drives some to commit crimes for what they believe are for “good” reasons. This is also what one of the other narrators of this novel believes, and his tale is told from the viewpoint known only as “The Poacher.” Recently released from prison, the ex-con initially only wants to be reunited with his family and provide them with the Christmas they deserve. It doesn’t take long before his temper and prison record restrict employment options, while his pride leads him down the path to the crimes that give him his name.

Those acts are what place him in the path of the ambitious police officer Megan, whose partnership with police dog Brigit has boosted both Megan’s career and her personal life. While patrolling the zoo Megan and Brigit happen to be on hand when two hyacinth macaws go missing, a tragedy that is at first blamed on a custodian’s carelessness. Unfortunately, that is but the first of a string of wildlife thefts from zoos, and Megan’s love of animals has her desperate to find them before they are lost forever. Megan’s observation skills, along with Brigit’s nose and athleticism, make them vital assistants for the investigating detective as they track down the profitable, cruel, but barely punished crimes of illegal poaching. Along the way Megan continues her normal patrols that involve jewelry thefts in a mall, where the solution is never as obvious as it at first appears to be.

Through clever writing and misdirects, one is never certain of the identity of the mysterious narrator even as he is shown descending further and further down a dark path. Through Megan’s research the extent and damage of poaching is revealed, with the stories being as heartbreaking as they are so compelling. Equally as compelling are scenes of Megan’s personal life, which depicts her strong and ever-growing relationship with her boyfriend, fireman Seth. A new paramedic threatens Megan’s security in their status, but Seth and his own K9 partner Blast prove to be worthy companions for our heroes. What is so refreshing about this series is how it differs by presenting a police officer who hasn’t lost her idealism and continues to believe in humanity and redemption. She maintains this belief despite the fact that for police officers the holiday season herald in an increase of domestic fights, burglaries, drunk drivers, and fires. At least tackling a shoplifter gives Megan the opportunity to spot a nice Christmas gift for her sister and allows Brigit to get a lot of exercise. Brigit’s narrations continue to be clever and perfectly suitable coming from a dog, as she enjoys teasing Blast and sniffing up fantastic odors. Beginning with Christmas and ending with the Valentine holiday, this novel is a wonderfully entertaining police procedure full of humor, the exploration of animal trafficking, and a woman’s bond with her best friend.

I have been introduced to a new author who I will definitely seek out and read more. Great concept, a female police officer and her female K9 partner, I love and read many mysteries. This one was a very engaging. It read quickly and was pleased the author did not see the need to use unnecessary violence and gore to make its point. Very creative in its crimes and methods. Did not give too much away as it lead up the the conclusion. I thought the addition of chapters from the K9's perspective - endearing and funny. - was a good literary tool. Made Brigit a full character. Great last line - perfect for the story. I would recommend the book to those looking for a mystery that is both engaging and sweet.

I received this book from Netgalley for review and all thoughts and opinions are my own.
This time around, Mega Liz and her trusty sidekick K-9 partner, Bright are on a smelly case. The zoo has experienced a rash of missing and presumed stolen animals. No fear, Brigit has a nose for these things and she is following it to the very end of the case. To add to the trouble, it's the holidays and ladies are missing their rings after a day at the local Ft. Worth mall. Could the thefts be connected? Well written and fun, this is a cozy mystery to enjoy. The character development is good and they are memorable. I didn't enjoy an earlier book in the series but this installment had me hooked from the first chapter.

Great Cozy Police Dog Mystery
This novel is eight in its series and stands alone very well. I have not read the previous books and was not lost at all. Of course, I love this book so much that I will go back and read the others. This story has lots of animals, two great working dogs, a bit of romance, and an interesting mystery or two. I loved that it was not all about the details of who wore what and who ate what – that is just such a waste of book space! The book is all about a young policewoman and her K-9 partner. She has a good roommate, a loving family and a great boyfriend. I highly recommend this book. I received this ARC book for free from Net Galley and this is my honest review.

I decided awhile back to just give Diane Kelly her own spot on my must read list, regardless of what series she's writing. Bottom line, if she writes it I will enjoy every word. From her Death and Taxes series to her new House Flipper series - I'm a happy reader. Full of humor and information about very interesting things, she never disappoints me, eight books in this series and each a pleasure to read.
If you are new to this series, not a problem to read this as a stand alone but, if you come to the end of Paw of the Jungle and have enjoyed hanging out with Megan, Brigit, Seth and Blast, set aside some reading time to play catchup. In this entry the animals are disappearing from the Fort Worth zoo and everyone is up in arms, pushing the police to find the criminal ASAP. With mentoring from several detectives, the investigation falls to Megan and Brigit to solve and they are up to the task even though, as crimes go, it takes them from December into February to track down the Poacher. The chapters are written from the point of view of Megan, Brigit and the Poacher but it's not confusing at all. I have to say that Brigit's chapters are my favorite. As the case progresses Megan also tries to track down some very expensive missing rings. These are the cases that will, one day, lead Megan to her desired detective's badge. From traffic enforcement to missing zoo animals, it's all in a days work for Megan and Brigit. Along the way there is the growing romance with her boyfriend Seth. I'm so ready to read the next book in the series.

Paw of The Jungle is the 8th book in the Paw Enforcement series by author Diane Kelly, which focuses on Fort Worth Police Officer Megan Luz and her K-9 partner, Brigit. This is a standalone story and the first I have had the opportunity to read.

I found it well-written with a fast pace. This book has an interesting twist, some of the chapters are written from the dog’s point of view and some are from the poacher’s point of view.

I liked that there were several sub-plots going on in the book. Also, the romantic person of interest is a firefighter which adds a different twist to the cozy genre. I like having people from all walks of life included in the story.

If you’re like me and haven’t read much from this author, give her a try. You just might find a new author to add to your read list.

I found this an above average cozy mystery the plot was enjoyable and the characters engaging, the critters are adorable and at times hilarious, I highly recommend to cozy mystery lovers

Fort Worth Texas officer, Megan Luz is back with her K-9 service dog, Brigit. Her favorite guy, Seth, also has a service dog, a yellow Lab named Blast. Seth is a bomb squad technician and firefighter.

Once again, the story is told in multiple POVs, one being protagonist Megan, along with Brigit, and the antagonist, dubbed The Poacher, whose elevator never reaches the top floor. There is a little romance between the Lab and Brigit and Seth and Megan, but it never overpowers the well-plotted mystery.

In this series entry, a number of valuable rings go missing about the same time a pair of Hyacinth macaws go missing from the zoo. It is nearing Christmas and the mall is full, people in a rush, and Megan isn't sure that the ring owners haven't just misplaced them. But the birds? No way could the regular zoo staff have allowed them to escape.

Interspersed with these two, the reader is treated to information regarding the laws of hunting in Texas, game ranches and animal poachers, as well as ex-con recidivism rates depending on available prison rehab classes. I love the chapters devoted to Brigit and her take on humans, as well as the little hints on reading dog body language. And always, the author's sense of humor shines through, often injecting thought-provoking LOL moments.

The narrative grabs your attention and keeps a steady pace except with the explanatory bits noted above. The series has built an engaging set of characters you can't help investing in. Entertaining atmospheric setting coupled with an intelligent and anthropomorphic glimpse into the psyche of a magnificent, intelligent canine partner.

I was given this digital download by the publisher and NetGalley and was thrilled to have the opportunity to read and review another in the series. This functions fine as a standalone but these are too fun any. Recommended for any who enjoy K-9 associated books, police procedurals, suspense, and sweet and easy pseudo cozy. Looking forward to Book 9! 4.5/5 rounded down

“Paw of the Jungle” is told from the point of view of Megan Luz, an officer with the Fort Worth Police Department, as well as from her K-9 partner Brigit, and an unknown person called “The Poacher.” Megan and Brigit investigate a case of animals going missing from the Fort Worth Zoo, as well as a series of robberies. The black market for animals is a ruthless business and Megan has to solve the case to protect the animals as well as herself.

When I began reading this book, I didn’t realize there were so many books in the “Paw Enforcement” series before this one. However, I didn’t have a problem catching up the important characters in the book. I enjoyed seeing Megan work towards her goal of becoming a detective and her partnership with her German Shepard partner, Brigit. However, the book is slower paced that I had hoped and it takes a while for the action to begin. The humor throughout the book, especially in the scenes with Megan and Brigit going through their daily routine. I didn’t think I would like the chapters told from Brigit’s point of view, but I ended up really enjoying them. They were short and entertaining and helped break up the slower parts of the book.

Once things got going, I enjoyed the book and love the teamwork between Megan and Brigit. I also liked the bit of romance added in with the mysteries. I was satisfied with the way the cases wrapped up and really loved how the book ended overall. I’m sure readers who have followed the series will be pleased with the story and the ending. In addition, animal lovers and fans of humorous mysteries like Laura Levine’s Jaine Austen series will want to meet the terrific team of Megan and Brigit.

I received this book from NetGalley through the courtesy of St. Martin’s. The book was provided to me in exchange for an honest review.

Police officer Megan Luz and her K-9 partner Brigit love to wander the Fort Worth zoo and they set out for a fun field trip. In Paw of the Jungle by Diane Kelly, this casual trip turns into disaster. A pair of rare hyacinth macaws named Fabiana and Fernando goes missing. Worth thousands of dollars, Megan cannot figure out how the birds were stolen. The zoo is secure and it seems almost impossible for the birds to have flown away on their own. In Megan's mind, this looks like an inside job.
An engaging team of human and canine.

The story is set up in an interesting manner presenting mostly two different perspectives in alternating chapters. One is of the poacher, an ex-con trying to good. The other is of police officer Megan Luz, aspiring detective and dog handler. For fun there are short chapters giving police dog Brigit's thoughts.

I was questioning what was going on in the beginning because of the going back and forth between two unrelated characters but it all comes together nicely making an unique set up for this mystery. I also enjoyed the humor added by Brigit's chapters.

Thanks to St. Martin's Press and NetGalley for an ARC. the opinions expressed are my own.

I was given this book for free for the purpose of review.

This is book 8 in an 8 book series. I read book 7 and liked it and gave it a good review, so the author solicited me to read this. I decided to give it a whirl.

This book is about a police dog handler and her dog-partner, in their attempt to solve a series of animal thefts from a local zoo. Megan the detective is a fun character to be around, both serious but with a generous heart. Brigit her police dog is equal parts silly and professional.

I had fun reading this! My favorite part of this story is the author's narrative voice. This is a Police Procedural, but the prose is so lovely and friendly that it reads almost like a Cozy Mystery.

My second favorite part is the author's knowledge of Texas law. As a police procedural, the author relies upon her knowledge of the law to make a compelling plot. Her knowledge of Texas exotic animal trafficking laws added a depth of seriousness to the storytelling.

This is a crime novel, not a mystery novel. What's the difference? We (the reader) know who the criminal was early on. There was no mystery, just a police officer and her dog trying to solve the crime we're already aware of. This was a bit of a problem, because it reduced the tension slightly.

Overall I had good fun reading this. Check out the series if you're curious.

Officer Megan Luz and her K-9 partner Brigit enjoy their patrol duties in Fort Worth, TX. Sometimes when the weather is nice and the day quiet, they like to go patrol a bit at the local zoo. But unfortunately, an animal napper is at work at their favorite hang-out. First a pair of valuable Macaws go missing.....then other animals disappear...even a black rhino. Who is stealing animals from the zoo? Officer Luz and Brigit are determined to catch the animal thief and bring peace back to their favorite patrol spot!

I enjoyed this latest visit with my favorite Texas crime fighting duo! The mystery is light, as usual...but this one had some interesting twists, lots of investigation and several suspects. The story moves at a nice pace, with the usual banter and humor. I like Megan as a main character. She's a bit snarky and mouthy at times, but dedicated to her job....and she wields a mean baton! Brigit is an awesome character as well. I enjoy the short chapters from her point of view. I imagine my dogs think the same sort of thoughts about me at times. Luckily, they don't chew my shoes. :)

This series is cozy-ish. The mystery/investigation plots are light...nothing graphic. But there is some minor cursing and adult situations. I recommend a bit of parental guidance before giving this series to a teen younger than 13. And...those who like their cozies strictly cozy.....be aware this one pushes past the usual cozy limits just a bit. No graphic sex scenes but there is some adult humor and a bit of cussing.

Another cute, entertaining read in this series. I can't wait for the next book!

**I voluntarily read an advance review copy of this book from St Martin's Press via NetGalley. All opinions expressed are entirely my own.**

Paw of the Jungle by Diane Kelly is the 8th book in the Paw Enforcement series, and another great addition. Texas police officer Megan Luz and her partner police dog, Brigit are taking a break at the Fort Worth Zoo, when two rare Macaws go missing. As Meg and Brigit continue their investigation, soon more animals are being taking from the zoo. This is a great book with a wonderful story with well developed characters and plot. This book will keep you reading long into the night. I also love how Meg and her boyfriend get along. If you are looking for a good book/ series, I highly recommend this one. I am looking forward to reading the next book in the series.
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I reviewed a digital arc provided by NetGalley and St. Martin's Press. Thank you.

This was a difficult book for me to read due to the subject matter as I am very sensitive to anything regarding animals. That being said, I enjoyed the book immensely, especially the end. Good read!

Missing zoo animals and missing rings! Megan and her K-9 Brigit have found themselves dealing with two challenging cases right around the holiday season. Is there an animal trafficker stealing the valuable animals? This could be deadly, especially when a black rhino is taken. You get the "poacher" perspective as well as Megan and Brigit's, which is a nice way to tell the tale. I would have been happy with just the animal angle but the ring thefts rounded things out. I'd not read any of the books in this series so this was a standalone for me- and it was great. I like that Seth, Megan's romantic interest, is a fire fighter as it adds a different angle. Thanks to Netgalley for the ARC. I'm going to look for more from Kelly.

Zoo animals are stolen. Megan and Brigit are on their trail. Interesting detective work following the clues. The story being told from three different viewpoints, criminal, cop, and dog was a fun change of pace. This is an entertaining series.

Megan is a police officer in Fort Worth, Texas. Her partner is Brigit, a German Shepherd. She has two cases on the go. Women are losing their rings and Megan is determined to find out who is stealing them and how. The second case involves animals that are disappearing from a zoo and it's up to Megan and Brigit to figure out who is stealing them.

I've read many books by this author and I liked this one. Though it's the eighth in the Paw Enforcement series, it can work as a stand alone and you don't have to read the others to know what's going on (there is enough background provided).

I liked the writing style ... it was amusing at times. It is written in first person perspective from Megan's point of view and third person perspective from Brigit's point of view (which is funny) and the Poacher's perspective.

I like Megan. She's gotten more confident as time goes on. Brigit's funny and likeable and it's fun to get into her head. Though she is a trained police dog, she can be naughty when she wants to be (like stealing tennis balls or being a bum at supper time).

New-to-me author and series. I really enjoyed the characters and the storyline. Officer Megan and ger K-9 partner, Officer Brigit, are fabulous. I plan on checking out the other books in this series.

I received a copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley My thoughts and opinions are my own and without bias or favor.

This is the 8th in series. I have read many of the series and always enjoy this series and the fun duo of police dog and officer. Thank you for the ARC. .My review opinions are my own. This book can be read as a stand alone.

Megan and Brigit have two new cases to solve in Fort Worth, Texas. Someone is stealing animals from the local zoo.! At the same time jewelry is being stolen and they have to solve that case as well. I loved the setting of the zoo and the descriptions of their efforts on behalf of the Zoo animals and bringing them back to safety. The jewelry theft was a secondary sleuth that added to the plot . It was fun to have multiple plots and sleuths to figure out as a reader.

This is a fun read with a great police dog and his trusty sidekick as a smart savvy sleuth who always solves her cases no matter if they are human or animal. There is a bit of a romance in this one which I do not usually like in my cozies but it was not overdone and fit the story without taking over . I loved the well crafted fun sleuth that had many twist and turns for the reader. I look forward to the next in series.

The eighth book in the Paw Enforcement series by Diane Kelly. Officer Megan and her K-9 partner Brigit investigate missing animals from the zoo. In addition to the main crime of finding who stole the animals, Megan is also working a case involving missing jewelry. Plus, her firefighter boyfriend Seth is working with a new paramedic. An attractive woman who causes Megan to worry about her relationship with Seth.

Told using multiple points of view - Megan, Brigit, and the guilty party. Megan is a likable character. She's hardworking, sensible, and quick witted. Brigit is a delightful dog, and I enjoy her amusing viewpoints. It's great to read how Megan and Brigit work the case, but also nice to get the viewpoint from the one committing the crimes.

A fun, humorous, and entertaining mystery. An enjoyable addition to the series, and I look forward to reading more books about Megan and Brigit.

I received a free digital copy of this book from the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.

Well this one (Book 8) was as fun as Book 7 which I also read. This makes at least three books in the series that I have read and enjoyed. This one has a somewhat different theme, but Megan still loves Seth and most of the time I think Seth loves Megan but...I did still have to wonder sometimes. I think Megan wondered now and then too. As far as Brigit and Blast...well dogs are loyal right? Nothing is as fun as having two canine cop handlers and two k-9’s. (kind of a mouthful). How could this not be a cute read.

We still had some input from Brigit now and then which gives a cop story a little lightness and makes the reading flow well. The different theme I mentioned in this storyline involves the zoo as its background. Megan and Bridgit patrol there now and then and they give us a picture of the zoo and its animals. However, neither the female cop nor the female K-9 cop takes it well that an animal is stolen in their territory. It all adds a little different line to the story, but you know...Diane Kelly seems to be very good at that.

Paw of the Jungle by Diane Kelly has a setting that I knew nothing about even though I had a friend who lived in Ft. Worth for many years. The zoo setting is wonderfully described, encouraging me to go online to experience it . The missing animals made for an attention grabbing hook into the story.

Then there is a second case to be solved so Police officer Megan Luz and her K-9 partner, Brigit are working overtime right during the holiday season. The signature dry wit humor that this series is known for along with the super intelligent K-9 make this an enjoyable read. You feel as if you are part of the investigations wanting to solve the cases too.

An ARC of the book was given to me by the publisher through Net Galley which I voluntarily chose to read and reviewed. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

I love this fabulous series; each novel is better than the last! I have enjoyed watching Megan grow into a responsible police officer and close to her partner, K-9 Sergeant Brigit. There is much LOL humor, especially the bad guy’s last attempt at being a bad guy. The mysteries are definitely challenging, and this time is no different.

Megan wants to become a detective but has to spend at least four years as a beat cop before applying. Giving traffic tickets isn’t her favorite thing to do, but that, and working with a couple seasoned detectives, is maturing her with regards to her behavior and honing her instincts to find and put together clues she observes. Brigit is happy about several things, including getting treats and being allowed to chase the bad guys and catch them. She rarely chews up Megan’s shoes now, but duct tape is holding together her duty shoes until she gets another pair. Brigit also adores Blast, the bomb-sniffing dog that is the partner of Megan’s boyfriend, Seth, a firefighter and bomb expert.

Megan is sent out to see two different women who have lost their rings, including expensive wedding sets. One claimed to have not left her home all day, and another was playing tennis after getting a manicure. There was no proof that workers around them were guilty, so all she could do was take a report and check the nearby pawn shops.

Megan and Brigit regularly walk through the zoo on their beat, so they are familiar with the layout and animals. They are at the zoo when two beautiful macaws go missing, and a custodian she recently met there was discharged when it was thought he either accidentally let them out of their enclosure or stole them. Not long afterward, a colobus monkey disappeared and was thought to be stolen – and the custodian no longer was there. It is then that Megan contacts one of the detectives she is learning from, Hector, as it sounds like someone is stealing from the zoo. If they can determine why and how, there is hope to find the whodunit.

I enjoyed this novel so much! It is like visiting old friends to see Megan, Brigit, Seth, Megan’s family and her roommate, Frankie. I like that Megan found critical clues that help her solve the crimes; the time she has spent being taught by detectives has been well-spent. Yes, she is great at putting things together herself, but has matured in many ways from the times she has been allowed to work with them. Brigit also sniffs out some good information that helps put the pieces together.

This armchair sleuth enjoyed following Megan on her adventures this time! There are surprises throughout, as well as the author’s trademark humor. As more zoo animals disappear, Brigit’s nose and the investigating skills of Megan and Hector put them hot on the trail of the less-than-bright thief. I highly recommend this mystery, and series, to those who appreciate well-written and LOL cozies, poignant moments between the bad guy and his adoring seven-year-old daughter, cops and K-9 partners, and romance.

From a thankful heart: I received a copy of this from the publisher through NetGalley, and this is my honest review.

Series: A Paw Enforcement Novel - Book 8
Author: Diane Kelly
Genre: Cozy Mystery/Animal/Holiday/Police Procedurals
Publisher: St. Martin's Paperbacks
Page Count: 365

From St. Martin’s comes the latest and perhaps the best one yet in the “A Paw Enforcement Novel,” a police dog cozy series by Diane Kelly, Paw of the Jungle.

This addition to the award-winning police dog cozy series is wonderfully enjoyable with just a slight hint of sadness. Whenever animals are endangered or abused, it is not pleasant, but when they are stolen from a zoo, and no one knows where they are, it’s even worse. Leave it to Megan and Brigit to stumble upon a theft ring just before the holidays. The victims are innocent animals; the perpetrator is not innocent but not necessarily a bad guy. In the end, he is caught, and the missing animals located; most of them are safe and back where they belong.

Characters in this series are always interesting, very human, and entertaining. Although this is a police dog cozy series, the human side is well represented. The animals involved have fantastic personalities. Brigit and Blast are two of the most adorable dogs ever written, brave, helpful, and they love their human partners and each other.

The writing in Paw of the Jungle is excellent, the plot realistic, and the characters relatable. Thought this is not a hard-boiled police detective or uncompromising police procedural, it is a police dog cozy series that fringes on both. If readers have never read any of the previous books in this series, they may wish to start at the beginning; otherwise, they could get lost trying to figure out the format it is written in and who each character is. Overall, however, this addition to the series will make readers keep turning the page and fill them with a sense of satisfaction and happiness.

Paw of the Jungle
A Paw Enforcement Novel #8
Diane Kelly
St. Martin’s Paperbacks, November 2019
ISBN 978-1-250-19737-5
Mass Market Paperback

From the publisher—

Police officer Megan Luz and her K-9 partner in crime, Brigit, are on all fours as they try to solve their latest Lone Star mystery.

AT THE ZOO

The weather is beautiful, work is slow, and her canine colleague could use a walk. What better day for Megan to take Brigit to the Fort Worth Zoo, where they can let loose and witness the law and order of nature unfold? But what begins as a fun field trip turns serious when a pair of rare hyacinth macaws named Fabiana and Fernando goes missing. Is the new custodian, a gentle soul who happens to be an ex-convict, to blame? Or is something far more sinister afoot?

AND ON THE HUNT

The birds are worth thousands of dollars, and the list of people on the premises who might have stolen them is long. Soon other animals start disappearing. . .and Megan and Brigit have their hands and paws full of suspects. But when a rare black rhino is taken from the zoo, presumably for its black-market-friendly horn, time is of the essence. Can Megan and Brigit find out who’s behind the mystery—before they too become prey?

Cozy mysteries featuring animals aren’t every mystery reader’s cup of tea, for sure, but there’s something about a K-9 that lifts the subgenre a little above the pack…pun intended 😉 If nothing else, the dog and his handler have a legitimate reason as well as the training to investigate and that’s certainly true with Megan’s and Brigit’s latest adventure.

Megan and Brigit are patrol officers, not usually involved in wildlife thefts and black market activities, but Megan has aspirations of getting into detective work and, when they’re fortuitously on site when two birds go missing, it’s a perfect chance for Megan to hone her detecting skills. Following various leads that arise with more animal-nappings, she—and the readers—learn a lot about poaching, trophy collecting, poorly run private zoos and the like. Meanwhile, the pair are also investigating some jewelry robberies.

Brigit sometimes shares her thoughts about her life, her duties and her love of treats, frequently making me smile. She and her partner are pretty darned good at what they do and are very appealing. I’ll definitely be back for more.

Reviewed by Lelia Taylor, November 2019.

This is one of my auto-buy series. I love reading about the adventures of Officer Luz and Officer Brigit! Brigit's attitude reminds me a lot of my own german shepherds larger than life personality.

In this book, Megan and Brigit are investigating the theft of multiple animals from the zoo. It wasn't my favourite case of the ones they've been involved in, but I was definitely still invested. I loved reading about the ongoing relationship between Megan and Seth, and of course Brigit and Blast.

I think one of the things I love about this series is that each chapter is told mainly from Megan's perspective, but then we also get a glimpse into what the criminal of the book is up to, and of course (my favourite) Brigit's take on whatever is going on. It's such a unique staple in the series and I love it.

I enjoyed this book. It was fun getting back with characters who feel like old friends. This is a great entry to the series and I have recommended it to others.

Brought to you by OBS Reviewer Jeanie

This is one of my favorite series with dogs; I love the humor throughout each novel and how challenging each mystery is. Each can be read as standalone novels, yet I find that Megan grows as a police officer and personally over the course of the series. Sergeant Brigit is more loving with Megan, as well, while retaining some of her puppy habits.

Megan Luz, a Fort Worth police officer, was assigned Brigit as her partner as a last resort when her former partner, Derek Mackey, had been obnoxious too many times and she tased him. Funny as the incident was, the chief of police had no sense of humor when hearing that his hunting buddy had been bested by a little woman. Megan had no desire to share her life with Brigit, the German shepherd K-9 that was her last chance to be a police officer. Brigit still gets the best of Megan sometimes, but overall, they are as close as partners can be.

We first meet the Poacher, who has just been released from prison after serving time for theft. His new employer took a risk to hire him, and gives him one chance only, since most ex-felons they have hired have disappointed them. He goes to his girlfriend’s home in hopes she will take him back. She isn’t sure she wants to, but he promises it will be different (again). He is the father of her three children, and when his daughter saw him, the decision was made.

It is December, and Christmas is fast approaching. Megan sometimes takes Brigit through the zoo while they are on patrol. On a stroll through, she meets Danny, a custodian, working there. She recognizes a prison tattoo on his hand, and they talk about his time served, his family, and she gives him her card should he ever need help.

Megan and Brigit are called to a woman’s home. She lost her rings and is convinced the plumber who was in her home that day had taken them. His fingerprints were not found where she thought she kept her rings, and without any kind of proof, Megan couldn’t arrest him.

A few days later, Megan and Brigit are again patrolling the zoo when she hears a confrontation with Danny. They said they believe he somehow either accidentally let escape, or took two hyacinth macaws. After reviewing security tapes, there was nothing conclusive about where the birds might be. There was also no evidence of the gorgeous birds in his car, but the zoo fired him anyway.

Days later, a woman at the nearby country club summoned a police officer. Her rings were missing, and she believed that the club employee she told to move her bag took them from the bag. Security tapes could prove the employee did not take the rings. The woman recalled her hands were very slippery after getting a manicure, and while she took her rings from the nail spa, she could have lost them anywhere.

Megan and Brigit take a call at the zoo, and this time she calls one of the detectives who had been mentoring her toward her goal of becoming a detective. Hector Bustamente arrives quickly to oversee the case with the latest missing zoo resident, a colobus monkey, Sarki. Sarki is very small, not much larger than a human newborn, so could be easily removed from the zoo. Hector requested Megan’s help with the case, and the public became quite upset over the loss of one of the zoo’s beloved creatures. Perhaps the macaws did not accidentally escape; it seemed highly unlikely that the costly macaws could escape and days later, a tiny monkey follows suit.

The characters are very well defined throughout; we learn more about the Poacher without learning his identity. I really like Megan more and more as the series progresses. She is hardworking, thinks before she acts, and with her way of looking at clues, will very likely become an excellent detective. She is knowledgeable about many things; she loves to read and retains facts well. I like firefighter and bomb expert Seth, her boyfriend. They have had some rocky days but have grown closer as a result of sharing Seth’s family challenges.

This novel follows a similar pattern to the earlier ones in respect to chapters being organized from 3 points of view. First is the bad guy – this time, the Poacher, then Megan, then Brigit. There are plot twists that kept me on my toes! Both mysteries – the thefts of beloved zoo animals and the women who are losing their rings – are confounding, but the women losing rings seem to have no connection. If only Brigit could talk! She can alert to what she finds but can’t always communicate everything when she sniffs out someone, or something, critical to a case. If one likes their cozy mysteries well-written with a healthy serving of humor and a K-9 with a ‘tude, I highly recommend it!

*OBS would like to thank the publisher for supplying a free copy of this title in exchange for an honest review*

One of my all time favorite serial that I love to read , no matter how I feel I can pick one of the books up and start to laugh because of Megan and Brigit. Other thing I love is how the story is told in the bad's point of view as well as Megan's and Brigit ( and with Brigit you never know what's she's going to say or do next ). So if your looking for a story that has mystery, a bit of romance and chaos then this is for you.