Step into the pawsitively thrilling world of Paw Enforcement, where Fort Worth’s feistiest rookie cop, Megan Luz, teams up with her furry K-9 partner, Brigit, to sniff out crime and steal readers’ hearts! Written by Diane Kelly, this cozy mystery series blends laugh-out-loud humor, heartwarming romance, and gritty police work, all set against the vibrant backdrop of Fort Worth, Texas. With Brigit’s canine instincts and Megan’s sharp wit, this dynamic duo tackles everything from bombers to burglars, making every page a tail-wagging adventure.
If you love Janet Evanovich’s sassy heroines or Spencer Quinn’s dog-narrated mysteries, Paw Enforcement’s unique blend of human and canine perspectives will hook you from the first bark. Ready to join Megan and Brigit on their crime-fighting beat? Let’s dive into the series’ origins, stories, and why it’s a must-read for mystery lovers!
How Paw Enforcement Began
Diane Kelly, a former state assistant attorney general and tax advisor, drew inspiration for Paw Enforcement from her love of animals and her experience at the Mansfield, Texas Citizens Police Academy. A demonstration by a K-9 handler and his dog sparked the idea for a series centered on a strong female cop and her loyal canine partner. Set in Fort Worth, where Kelly has lived for years, the series captures the city’s cowboy charm and modern vibrancy. Launched in 2014, Paw Enforcement combines Kelly’s knack for humor with her fascination for law enforcement, creating a fresh take on the cozy mystery genre.
The Heart of Paw Enforcement
The series kicks off with Paw Enforcement (2014), where Megan, a rookie with a temper, lands in hot water after tasering her sexist partner. Her punishment? Partnering with Brigit, a stubborn German Shepherd mix who outranks her and loves chewing shoes. When a bomber targets a mall, Megan and Brigit must work together to catch the culprit, with help from sexy bomb-squad expert Seth Rutledge and his dog, Blast. In Paw and Order (2014), the duo tackles a thief dubbed 'Robin Hood' at a local rodeo, balancing crime-solving with Megan’s on-again, off-again romance with Seth.
The Long Paw of the Law (2018) sees Megan and Brigit investigating a baby abandoned at a fire station, uncovering secrets tied to a mysterious religious sect. In Paw of the Jungle (2019), they chase a poacher stealing exotic animals from the Fort Worth Zoo, highlighting the dark world of animal trafficking. The series’ themes—loyalty, resilience, and justice—shine through Megan’s growth as a cop and Brigit’s hilarious canine commentary. Kelly’s multi-perspective storytelling, including Brigit’s witty inner thoughts, adds depth and charm, while Fort Worth’s blend of old-west grit and urban energy grounds the action.
Kelly’s writing is fast-paced, with suspenseful plots and comedic moments, like Brigit’s obsession with treats or Megan’s baton-twirling stress relief. The series balances cozy mystery’s lighthearted vibe with real-world issues like stalking and poaching, making it both entertaining and thought-provoking. Fans praise its relatable characters and the authentic bond between Megan and Brigit, which evolves from rivalry to unbreakable friendship.
Why Paw Enforcement Resonates
Paw Enforcement has carved a niche in the cozy mystery genre, delighting fans with its blend of humor, heart, and canine charisma. Its focus on a female-led K-9 team offers a fresh perspective on police procedurals, appealing to animal lovers and mystery enthusiasts alike. The series’ Fort Worth setting and Kelly’s knack for weaving social issues into engaging plots have earned it comparisons to Janet Evanovich and Carl Hiaasen. With over nine books and a novella, Paw Enforcement continues to grow, with recent releases like Pawfully Wedded (2024) keeping fans hooked. Its lasting appeal lies in its celebration of loyalty—between partners, lovers, and pets—making it a feel-good yet thrilling read.
- First Book: Paw Enforcement (2014)
- Latest Release: Pawfully Wedded (2024)
- Setting: Fort Worth, Texas
- Genre: Cozy Mystery, Police Procedural
Ready to unleash your inner detective? Grab Paw Enforcement and join Megan and Brigit’s tail-wagging adventures in Fort Worth’s crime-fighting world!