A fresh and amusing approach to crime writing for the action is seen through the eyes of the private investigator’s dog. With a kidnapping at its centre, the Russian mafia to the fore and scents, gnawings, gunmen attacks and the like our hero dog is beset on all sides, and triumphs. Great fun, not to be taken seriously but definitely needing a sequel – I understand one is coming.
In this, their first adventure, Chet and Bernie investigate the disappearance of Madison, a teenage girl who may or may not have been kidnapped, but who has definitely gotten mixed up with some very unsavoury characters. A well-behaved, gifted student, she didn't arrive home after school and her divorced mother is frantic. Bernie is quick to take the case - something about a cash flow problem that Chet's not all that clear about - and he's relieved, if vaguely suspicious, when Madison turns up unharmed with a story that doesn't add up. But when she disappears for a second time in a week, Bernie and Chet aren't taking any chances; they launch a full-blown investigation. Without a ransom demand, they're not convinced it's a kidnapping, but they are sure of one thing: something smells funny.
