It's a wonderful woof

In Quinn's delightful 12th Chet and Bernie mystery (after Tender Is the Bite), Lauritz Vogner, who expresses an interest in Baroque art and architecture, offers Bernie Little, the head of the Little Detective Agency in the Valley (which is "almost certainly in Arizona," according to Bernie's partner, Chet, the series' joyously exuberant canine narrator), $5,000 for a research job. Though Vogner assures Bernie there will be no danger involved, Bernie decides to pass the opportunity along to Victor Klovsky, a fellow PI whose usual detecting work consists of on-line research. Victor, however, recently made the unwise decision to branch out into more daring cases, and a few days later Victor's mother calls Bernie to report her son has disappeared. An abandoned bicycle, a postcard depicting Nuestra Señora de los Saguaros mission church, and a fat man with a Santa beard are among the clues that lead the Little investigative team into a world of shady real estate deals, high finance, and obsession. Diverting digressions and colorful characters complement the investigative work, but the main draw is Chet's irrepressible doggy charm. Quinn reliably entertains. (Oct.)

Bernie Little, of the Little Detective Agency, and his K9 companion Chet thought they were helping their friend Victor get his new private investigator business going when they sent a potential client his way. But when Victor doesn't show up to light the Hanukkah candles at his mom's, she hires Bernie to find her missing son. Looking for clues to the missing man pulls the duo into the original investigation, which winds up including a deconsecrated religious site and Baroque artwork. Chet and Bernie don't need holiday magic to solve the case, but a little divine intervention never hurt anyone, right? Though there are 11 previous entries in the "Chet and Bernie" series, even readers unfamiliar with earlier titles will enjoy this quick, engaging tale. Chet is the narrator, which may make some readers hesitant, but most will find the humor and charm to be icing on the smart whodunit cake. There are enough references to winter holidays and the reasons behind them to provide both a festive feeling and thoughts to ponder. VERDICT Another interesting case for Chet to sink his teeth into while also giving readers moments of art and world history.--Stacey Hayman, Rocky River P.L., OH