Paws Before Dying : Book Review

"Paws Before Dying" by Susan Conant is an engrossing mystery novel that will tug at your heartstrings. Set in Cambridge, Massachusetts, the story follows Holly Winter, a passionate dog writer and enthusiast, who becomes entangled in a series of peculiar happenings at a dog show.

When a prominent dog breeder is found dead at the event, Holly's intuition kicks in, and she embarks on a quest to unravel the murder. As she delves deeper into the investigation, secrets, rivalries, and deceit within the competitive dog show world come to light. With the support of her loyal canine companion, Rowdy, and her veterinarian friend, Steve, Holly navigates the twists and turns of the case.

Conant's writing beautifully captures the unique bond between humans and animals as Holly relies on her innate understanding of dogs to guide her investigation. The author's vast knowledge of dog shows and the intricacies of the canine world brings authenticity and depth to the narrative.

The characters in "Paws Before Dying" are well-crafted and compelling. Holly Winter proves to be a relatable and determined protagonist, and her interactions with Rowdy add a heartwarming touch to the story. The supporting cast, including the eccentric dog show participants and suspects, adds complexity and intrigue to the plot.

The novel's plot is gripping and fast-paced, ensuring that readers remain engrossed from start to finish. Conant skillfully weaves together multiple subplots, creating a layered mystery filled with unexpected twists and turns. Moreover, the book tackles important themes such as animal welfare and ethical breeding practices, elevating it beyond a simple whodunit.

What are readers saying?

There are mixed reactions to "Paws Before Dying" by Susan Conant, as seen in the reviews. The novel follows Holly Winter, a professional dog trainer and amateur sleuth, as she delves into a murder case connected to the world of dog competitions. While some readers found the book entertaining and praised Conant's writing style, others felt that the plot and characters were lacking in depth.

A number of reviewers appreciated Conant's ability to capture the essence of the dog training world, finding it to be an enjoyable aspect of the book. They commended the author's knowledge and insight into dog behavior, which added authenticity to the story. Moreover, readers admired Conant's descriptive writing, as it allowed them to vividly imagine the various settings and scenes.

On the other hand, some readers were disappointed with the plot. They considered it predictable and lacking in originality, failing to hold their interest. Similarly, the characters were criticized for being one-dimensional and underdeveloped, making it difficult for readers to connect with or care about them.

The pacing of the book also received a mixed reception. While some readers felt that the story moved too slowly, hindering their enjoyment, others appreciated the slow and steady progression. They found that it allowed them to savor the details and fully immerse themselves in the world that Conant created.

Overall, opinions on "Paws Before Dying" were varied. While some readers praised the book for its accurate portrayal of the dog training world and engaging writing style, others found the plot and characters to be lacking in depth. Ultimately, readers seeking a light and entertaining mystery set in the world of dog competitions may enjoy this book. However, those looking for a more complex and intricate storyline might find themselves wanting more.

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