Cat Lover’s Trivia: Weird and Wacky Facts About Our Furry Friends by Mike Darton is a 2021 Chartwell Books publication.
This is a fun book of cat triviCat Lover’s Trivia: Weird and Wacky Facts About Our Furry Friends by Mike Darton is a 2021 Chartwell Books publication.
This is a fun book of cat trivia with a format and style loosely based on Schott’s Original Miscellany. Cat lovers will love all the little tidbits of information, but so will history buffs, and trivia fans.
The book covers so many topics, but the format is quite random- which made the book fun in many ways, but switching gears so quickly was distracting, too, at times. Still, even for the most informed cat aficionado, there are facts here that will surprise and often delight cat lovers.
Big cats, small cats, show cats- from all countries, with all sorts of names and pronunciations! Cartoon cats, fables, and movies. Cat litter, cat carriers, cat food, cat breeds, classifications, emotions. The book has a few funny cat quotes, and lists the oldest cats, cats who had the most litters, and explains grooming habits, hybrids, cats that are extinct- Basically anything that has to do with cats, or anything named after a cat, with that uses the word 'cat'.
The book is, despite its unique approach, very straightforward, though, and has very little commentary.
Still the book is very fun to browse through. While it’s less than a hundred pages, that’s kind of deceiving. The book kept me entertained for a while, plus it is a book that one can refer back to, almost like a quirky cat encyclopedia.
I thought I knew a lot about cats, but it would seem I had a lot more to learn!
Overall, this is one of the most unique formats I’ve encountered in a trivia book. It's a little busy at times, and if you are a stickler for organization, this one might be a challenge for you, but it keeps things lively, and challenges the brain a little too.
The Bald Eagle: The Improbable Journey of America’s Bird by Jack Emerson Davis is a 2022 Liveright publication.
According to Jack E. Davis the Bald EaThe Bald Eagle: The Improbable Journey of America’s Bird by Jack Emerson Davis is a 2022 Liveright publication.
According to Jack E. Davis the Bald Eagle has never been officially made the National bird of the United States, although our government websites list them as such.
No president or Congress as ever signed a proclamation or passed a law declaring the Bald Eagle to be our national bird.
This is the way Davis begins this book about the Bald Eagle and from there takes the reader on an interesting journey that covers the history of the Bald Eagle beginning with the story of how it became the symbol that graced the Great Seal of the United States, and through to present day.
Davis explores the eagle’s long history, not just as an American symbol, but the behaviors of the bird, its habits, etc., dispelling myths, and examining human interactions with the great bird, and how it nearly became extinct, not once, but twice.
“Humans had made the world confusing for the bald eagle. They had saddled the top predator with an undeserved reputation for being a tyrant and shameless coward, and ornithologists had affirmed that reputation. Yet, paradoxically, Americans also put the bald eagle up on a symbolic perch, where it asserted the ennobling virtues of a great nation.”
The Eagle has a split personality it seems- greatly admired and revered by some, but by others, the bird does not impress. Farmers and the Audubon society expressed disdain towards the Eagle.
The native people gave the eagle spiritual connotations, but the bird has often been a frequent target- not just from guns, but from poisons. But the Eagle, with the help of its champions has survived against all odds.
The bird is often a model for artists, there are sports teams named after it, and celebrities have attached their names to the conservation cause.
Thankfully, there were programs put in place that saved the Eagle, and attitudes toward the bird became more enlightened as people have become more conscious and informed about ecology, and about animals’ relation to humans, while stupid myths have been debunked.
Overall, this comprehensive history of the bald eagle is fascinating, but is also an easy and enjoyable book to read....more
Piglet: The Unexpected Story of a Deaf, Blind, Pink Puppy and His Family by Melissa Shapiro is a 2021 Atria Books publication.
This book wins inspiratPiglet: The Unexpected Story of a Deaf, Blind, Pink Puppy and His Family by Melissa Shapiro is a 2021 Atria Books publication.
This book wins inspirational story of the year!
Melissa Shapiro, a veterinarian with a thriving practice, a busy family, and a large pet and bird population of her own, agreed to temporarily foster a little puppy that was blind and deaf.
Melissa never dreamed she would eventually give Piglet, his forever home, much less see him become a superstar social media sensation. His journey was one that require a great deal of patience, a whole lot of work, and loads of love and affection- but this little dog’s spirit would teach and inspire countless children to meet the challenges they faced.
This little guy is just adorable, and his story will absolutely melt your heart!! Follow him on Instagram and Facebook- but also read his book. Knowing his journey will help you appreciate just how far this little guy has come and what a wonderful, vibrant disposition he has. He does great work- but he couldn’t have done it without Melissa and her family. They, too, are inspirational and I’m so glad they recognized Piglet’s potential.
Melissa, her family, and Piglet have touched so many lives and should be an example to us all.
Pup Fiction by Laurien Berenson is a 2021 Kensington publication.
Talk about getting a late start on a series! I picked up Berenson’s twenty-sixth insPup Fiction by Laurien Berenson is a 2021 Kensington publication.
Talk about getting a late start on a series! I picked up Berenson’s twenty-sixth installment in the Melanie Travis series while looking for a Halloween themed cozy mystery last year. It was surprisingly easy to drop into the series, even at such a late date. I liked the book so much, I decided to read the next installment to see if my luck would continue. (There is no way I could read through twenty-five installments to catch up with the series- especially with all the other series I have committed myself to ...more
Second Chance Cats: True Stories of the Cats we Rescue and the Cats Who Rescue Us by Callie Smith Grant- Editor- is a 2020 Fleming H. Revell publicatiSecond Chance Cats: True Stories of the Cats we Rescue and the Cats Who Rescue Us by Callie Smith Grant- Editor- is a 2020 Fleming H. Revell publication.
No need to explain why I wanted to read this book. I love cats and am always a sucker for the second chance theme- and happy endings!!
This book is a collection of true stories told in first person, by a variety of contributors, from all walks of life. Each short essay explains how a cat entered their lives, some only briefly, and some for long periods of time, and what impact the cat had on them. Some stories are a little bittersweet, some are inspirational, and some are just sweet stories about a cat that touched the writer in a special way or came to be a permanent part of their family.
As the title suggests, the cats featured in these stories are ones who were rescued, sometimes passing through the person’s life on their way to a longer term residence, and sometimes the writer is able to provide a permanent home for the cat. Yet, very often these cats are the ones doing the rescuing, help to heal and comfort their humans in times of stress, grief or illness- and everyone knows cats are good for our general well being.
I like to tell people that all my cats found me, not the other way around, and that is mostly true.
I have plenty of similar stories, dating back to my childhood, when cats just seemed to find me and stick around. I have tamed feral cats, rescued abandoned kittens, and even shared ownership of a cat with a neighbor once. As an adult, I only owned dogs for a long time before once again adopting a cat. Now, my cats outnumber the dogs- and the stories of how they came to live with us are as special to me as the ones printed in this book. It is for this reason, this book resonated with me, and I found myself nodding and smiling along, knowing how easily felines can worm their way into our hearts and lives.
There is nothing especially fancy about this compilation- the stories are short, told by real people, and are straightforward and simple, but always very heartfelt and sincere.
It goes without saying that cat lovers will not be able to resist these heartwarming stories featuring some very special feline friends....more
A Cat’s Tale: A Journey Through Feline History by Paul Koudounaris is a 2020 Henry Holt and Co. Publication.
Fun, descriptive, and educational!
This isA Cat’s Tale: A Journey Through Feline History by Paul Koudounaris is a 2020 Henry Holt and Co. Publication.
Fun, descriptive, and educational!
This is a non-fictional book about the history of cats, as told by Baba the cat, who narrates the text with the kind of dry wit unique only to cats. The artwork is great, and Baba is very photogenic! A beautiful feline!
Once you’ve completed the book you will certainly understand a cat’s true place in history and in our lives.
Cat’s rule- they know it and you know it- and this book just provides more proof of that fact!
Overall, this is a clever way to explore the history of cats. Cat lovers will love reading about their feline’s ancestors and will enjoy hearing the information from the viewpoint a cat.
Photos of Baba in various costumes are adorable and hilarious and adds much to the charm of the book. The author also provides a list of research resources if you would like to take a deeper dive into the world of felines.
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Naturally, as a huge cat lover, this book is right up my alley- and I’m sure all other cat lovers out there will enjoy this book too!
In Dog We Trust by Beth Kendrick is a 2019 Berkley publication.
The tourist season is beginning in Black Dog Bay. The wealthy who ‘summer’ here are fiIn Dog We Trust by Beth Kendrick is a 2019 Berkley publication.
The tourist season is beginning in Black Dog Bay. The wealthy who ‘summer’ here are filtering in, which means Jocelyn Hillier, who runs a laundry service for the tourists is busy, especially now that her mother is recovering from surgery.
But, it’s Jocelyn’s other job as a dog walker and sitter for Mr. Allardyce which unexpectedly turns her life upside down.
When Mr. Allardyce suddenly dies, he leaves his fortune to his dogs, and names Jocelyn as their guardian, propelling her into a life of ease. But Mr. Allardyce’ estranged son, Liam, has decided to contest the will. However, he never counted on Jocelyn’s determination to honor Mr. Allardyce’s will or her will to fight for a new way of life.
If things weren’t complicated enough, Jocelyn and Liam discover that although they are legal adversaries, they happen to like one another- a lot!!
This is a sweet, light, and mildly fluffy story about family, class distinctions, and compromise. There is heartbreak along the way, but ultimately this is a book that will lift your spirits and leave you feeling upbeat, which is something we could all use a lot more of. The romance is sweet, with only a mild angst, despite the circumstances. Also, there are dogs- and who doesn’t love a story that features dogs?
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Jocelyn is a terrific character, and I cheered for her from start to finish. The supporting cast is outstanding, each pulling their share of the load, and adding something special or important to the story.
When I close a book with a big goofy grin on my face, I owe the author a debt of gratitude for cheering me up and sending me a few much- needed positive vibes. Some will scoff and claim it is not realistic, but lets look at it a little closer-
The feel -good ending here didn’t just magically work out on its own. The characters each had to concede something or contribute something. They all had to consider the viewpoint of others involved, which requires work, patience, and maturity. Things don’t always turn out like we hope they will in life, but when people work together the results are often better than one could have thought possible.
I’d say it paid off nicely for them. Their example is one we could all learn from. The message is just as important as those presented with a heavier tone or in a more dramatic way. So, to say it isn't possible for people to settle disputes, or conflict in a civil manner, or that love doesn't factor in it, sells us all short, in my opinion.
You may notice this is a part of a series, but this book can be read as a stand-alone. However, I think it would be fun to read the previous installments and of course I will be sure to catch any future chapters in this series, especially since Black Dog Bay is the best place to recover from a heartbreak. You may arrive with a frown, but you’ll leave with a smile- and that’s good enough for me!
The Travelling Cat Chronicles by Hiro Arikawa, Philip Gabriel (Translator) is a 2018 Viking publication. (Originally published in 2012).
An emotional,The Travelling Cat Chronicles by Hiro Arikawa, Philip Gabriel (Translator) is a 2018 Viking publication. (Originally published in 2012).
An emotional, poignant story featuring an amazing cat named Nana-
Nana is a stray cat who enjoys sleeping in the sun on the hood of a van, and tolerating humans if necessary, especially if he is given crunchy bits to eat.
But, when tragedy strikes, by way of getting hit by a car, Nana is taken in by the human, Satoru, the van owner who leaves him food. Satoru names him Nana, because his crooked tail is shaped like the Japanese number seven. They have some great times together, but suddenly, after several years, Satoru, must re-home his beloved cat.
So, he goes on a journey with Nana, to find him a new home.
The journey takes us back in time to Satoru’s childhood where we learn about his life and his friendships and relationship with a cat he knew before he had Nana, for whom he still mourns. He gets to reconnect with old friends, but has a hard time finding someone who can take Nana.
Nana is our storyteller and narrates this journey in a way only a cat could. If you are a cat lover, you will know exactly what I mean. Nana, of course, knows in his infinite wisdom, the lessons that will enlighten Satoru, and the reader, upon his journey.
This is such a wonderful fable, despite the tearjerker premise, centering on friendship, and human connections. Satoru may have led a life of isolation, but he is a such a warm -hearted man, and of course I recognized in him a fellow ‘cat person’, which endeared him to me, even more. But, perhaps to those who may feel cats are too aloof for your taste, this book dispels that notion, in countless ways.
We realize right away that Satoru is helping Nana, taking care of him even before his accident, giving him a very nice, pampered life. We see what a gentle soul, he is, despite some very difficult times in his life. But it is what Nana does for Satoru that is at the heart of the story. What Satoru learns on their journey and how Nana remains his best friend, is loyal to him in all ways, and eternally grateful, will bring tears to your eyes.
Yes, this story is sentimental and bittersweet, but the message is profound, despite or maybe because of its simplicity, and will resonate with pet lovers of all stripes, but certainly to those who have a truly special bond with their feline companions....more
My Forever Home by Debbie Burns is a 2018 Sourcebooks Casablanca publication.
I’m a huge animal lover, so naturally, I’m a sucker for any story that fMy Forever Home by Debbie Burns is a 2018 Sourcebooks Casablanca publication.
I’m a huge animal lover, so naturally, I’m a sucker for any story that features pets and animals. This one is centered around Tess Grasso, a veterinary school dropout, who dreams of opening her own pet therapy business, and Mason Redding, a professional baseball player recuperating from an injury that has him temporarily sidelined.
The couple bonds over a stray Husky. They give the dog a very special name, which was very cool. I loved it! But, as their friendship deepens, Tess develops a huge crush on Mason. However, Mason has failed to inform Tess he is a famous athlete, fearing that if she knew, it would spoil their pure relationship.
Naturally, the truth must come out sooner or later, but in the meantime, they look for their favorite Husky, who also weighs in on the situation.
This story will appeal to the animal lover in all of us. The homeopathic, holistic approach to treating pets and rescue animals is an interesting topic. However, it overpowered the story, with the relationship developments running mainly in the background. The chemistry between Tess and Mason leads to a very, very slow burn romance, which, unfortunately, after the build up to Mason’s confession to Tess regarding his professional life, was very anticlimactic, and the ending was fairly rushed.
The bulk of the book is about pet therapy, and is fun to read, on that basis. However, if you are looking for a romance with more character depth, emotions or steam, this one fails to deliver on that front.
Overall, romance seekers may be left wishing for more, but animal lovers will find this one quite appealing.
*Personal note: This story is about holistic healing for pets. While I have nothing against this practice, per se, since I often prefer it for my own health, it should be noted that the use of essential oils for dogs should be approached with great caution. Some essential oils are poisonous or toxic to dogs. Ask your Vet or seek professional services before using them. I would suggest doing a lot of research on this if you are a dog owner.
The Savannah cat is beautiful, and the one featured in this story is a rescue, but I PERSONALLY have mixed feelings about cross-breeding. This is my opinion only. If you have a differing opinion on these subjects, my goal is not to offend, and I will not engage in a debate. I only mention it because this book is a work of fiction, and readers may want to do some further reading on the topics mentioned in this novel, just be better informed on the pros and cons.
That said, I applaud the author for giving props to animal shelters and rescue centers everywhere....more
Murder on a Mystery Tour by Marian Babson is a 1988 Bantam publication. (Originally published in 1985 by the Title “Not One Word Has Been Omitted”)
I’vMurder on a Mystery Tour by Marian Babson is a 1988 Bantam publication. (Originally published in 1985 by the Title “Not One Word Has Been Omitted”)
I’ve been dying to try out one of Marian Babson’s mystery novels for a long time. I plucked this one out of the pile because it has a very slight holiday/ wintery theme, to go along with my holiday reading this year.
I was concerned a bit by some mixed reviews, but for me, this one is a happy surprise. I thought it was great fun.
If you like ‘Golden Age’ mysteries, you will enjoy this novel and its backdoor homage to mystery novels written between 1920 and 1940.
Reggie and Midge have resorted to hosting ‘Mystery Tours’ to keep their manor house out of debt. The staff, guests and actors work in concert to present the ‘Mystery’.
Guests for this tour include Bramwell, a famous mystery author, and his overbearing mother, Amaryllis and the Chandler twins, who both have a crush on Bramwell.
And let’s not forget, Ackroyd, a cat named after the Agatha Christie novel- Who killed Roger Ackroyd- ironically enough.
While the story does have some issues, it was actually pretty clever. Two mysteries going at once- the staged one and the real one. Naturally, they become snowbound, just for kicks and giggles, adding to the uneasy tension in the house.
There are several big surprises, and red herrings, and is, of course, set up to resemble mystery novels from the Golden Age, which I happen to love, flaws and all.
The story is pretty busy, and can get a little confusing, with so many characters and the two mysteries running simultaneously. But, because the book is so short, I could take my time with it, so I didn't have too much trouble keeping it all straight. I love the dialogue and intrigue, and enjoyed trying to guess who the murderer was- in both mysteries.
Overall, this is a wonderfully entertaining mystery, and I truly had a great time reading it. All of Marian Babson's books are short, usually under three hundred pages, and often feature a feline presence. They probably fit better in the cozy category, but I think all mystery lovers will enjoy these books.
A Christmas Secret by Kirsty Ferry is a 2018 Choc Lit publication.
A madcap adventurous romance featuring the sly matchmaker, Schubert the cat.
Hugo iA Christmas Secret by Kirsty Ferry is a 2018 Choc Lit publication.
A madcap adventurous romance featuring the sly matchmaker, Schubert the cat.
Hugo is pet sitting his sister Nessa’s very large black cat- Schubert, who could be a Norwegian Forest Cat or a Maine Coon. With the holidays quickly approaching, Hugo decides to take Schubert to a pet photography studio to have his picture made as a gift for his sister.
There he meets Isla, the pet photographer. Hugo thinks Isla is adorable and nice and wants to get to know her better. But he’s harboring a dark little secret from his past that could be a deal breaker for Isla.
Isla, meanwhile, is having trouble avoiding her possessive ex-boyfriend whose jealousy could interfere with Isla’s budding romance with Hugo.
Sensing there could be a little trouble brewing, Schubert, who is too smart and intuitive for his own good, is working overtime to help this couple overcome the obstacles in the way of their romance.
I knew I was going to enjoy this story simply because I love cats. But, when I discovered the cat’s breed, I was even more delighted. I desperately want a Maine Coon cat and am on the look out for a rescue. Not only that, I’m partial to black cats. But the question is, even with all that going for it, is the story a good one? Absolutely!
This a short, light hearted and zany holiday story full of humor and romantic adventure. There is a slightly sinister undertone, however, but Shubert has everything under control. So, just sit back and watch him manipulate his humans- for their own good, of course, and enjoy Isla and Hugo’s magical whirlwind romance! ...more
Trouble Under the Mistletoe: A Familiar Legacy Short Story by Rebecca Barrett is a 2017 KaliOka Press publication.
Trouble and his renowned detecting Trouble Under the Mistletoe: A Familiar Legacy Short Story by Rebecca Barrett is a 2017 KaliOka Press publication.
Trouble and his renowned detecting skills help solve a holiday crime while in the care of Billie Dean Bailey of Turnout, MS.
Trouble sniffs out a hint of concern for Billie and her family whose car dealership is going through a rough patch.
While Billie Dean is concerned about her father and a recent new hire, she finds herself distracted by Teddy Adamson, who is back in town to visit his mother for the holidays.
But, when a murder takes place at the Bailey’s annual Christmas party, Teddy and Billie Dean, with Trouble’s assistance, will have to unravel a clever crime ring.
This is a super short cozy/romantic suspense story, which is a part of the ‘Familiar Legacy’ series. Once again, the vibrant southern locale creates a special holiday ambience and I especially enjoyed the second chance love story between Teddy and Billie Dean. As always, Trouble’s detecting skills are second to none and his inner monologue is priceless. I hope the humans make it to the Christmas pies before Trouble does!
Despite its brevity, this is a complete crime story with a dash of holiday romance and is purrfect for a lunch break escape.
Trouble in Dixie by Rebecca Barrett is a 2017 KaliOka Press publication.
Trouble is back for more adventures- or maybe I should say misadventures!
TroTrouble in Dixie by Rebecca Barrett is a 2017 KaliOka Press publication.
Trouble is back for more adventures- or maybe I should say misadventures!
Trouble is staying with Julia Hampton in Savannah, Georgia for a spell, and soon finds a purrfect opportunity to exercise his detective skills.
Julia may be a bona fide Southern belle, accustomed to all the trappings of wealth, but she’s a smart and dedicated art insurance investigator. However, when her office is trashed, she soon finds herself embroiled in a whole lot of intrigue over some missing Russian art.
Enter US Deputy, Mitch Lawson. Mitch and Julia soon find themselves teaming up as detectives, each bringing their own expertise to help one another, even though Julia has to get a little creative in order to stay involved.
Little do they know they have a silent partner…. A certain black cat aptly named ‘Trouble.’
‘I appreciate the Lawman’s sentiment. He has been charged with keeping Julia safe, but he has failed to take into consideration that I am on the job.”
I always love southern locations, but I thought the contrast between the Savannah locale and Russian art was a unique one. It may not seem like the two go together, but interestingly enough, they do.
I also enjoy anything to do with the Romanov period, including the art and priceless artifacts, so this was a fun topic for me to read about.
I thought the chemistry between Mitch and Julia was perfect and enjoyed their sweet romance, as well as the strong secondary characters, especially, Julia’s Aunt Ethel.
The mystery is fast-paced and adventurous with plenty of intrigue and of course ‘Trouble’ has the most hilarious and tender monologues! Is it wrong that I often look forward to hearing what ‘Trouble’ has to say more than anything else? LOL!
Overall, this is another fun and romantic installment in the ‘Fear Legacy’ series.
Fear Familiar by Carolyn Haines (Caroline Burnes) is a 2017 KaliOka Press publication.
I loved this romantic suspense series back in the nineties, andFear Familiar by Carolyn Haines (Caroline Burnes) is a 2017 KaliOka Press publication.
I loved this romantic suspense series back in the nineties, and I even kept a few of the Harlequin Intrigue paperbacks- so I was thrilled to discover that the first three books in the series have been released in digital format. (This first one is available in the Kindle Unlimited program, if you subscribe)
When Eleanor Duncan and a scruffy black cat more or less rescue each other in a university parking lot, she decides to keep him, aptly naming him ‘Familiar’. But, Familiar needs a vet so she takes him to visit Dr. Peter Curry, who gives Eleanor shocking information regarding an animal research center, and feels Familiar was a recent and lucky escapee.
Sure enough, someone wants that cat back in the worst possible way, and Eleanor soon finds herself embroiled in a web of conspiracy, intrigue and danger, which could put her life at risk.
This plot is very complex and original, and although the book was published back in 1989, it seems to have aged well, although it is clearly written before smart phones and other modern technologies, and you might catch an outdated phrase, or reference here and there, but mostly it goes unnoticed.
Eleanor’s character goes through a transformation, becoming stronger and wiser, as she struggles to control the ghosts of her troubled past, and get to the bottom of this puzzling mystery, discovering she has more strength and courage than she thought possible.
‘Familiar’ has his own ‘voice’, and he allows the reader to ‘hear’ his thoughts and follow his actions as he does his part to keep Eleanor safe. He’s one smart cookie, with cute observations about humans, and is a delightful part of the story.
The story is fast-paced and absorbing, with lots of action and a little romance, too. This book laid a solid foundation in which to build what would become a long running series that began in 1989 and ran through 2009, I believe, and is a testament to how popular it was. I would love to read them order, someday, so I hope they all show up in the kindle store someday.
In the meantime, the series has been revived with a ‘second generation’ of adventures featuring Familiar’s son- Trouble. You can even read them concurrently and double the fun!
I enjoyed becoming reacquainted with Familiar and his charming disposition. This series brings back fond memories and is a little nostalgic for me. So, I’m very happy this series is getting a new life, allowing dedicated fans a chance to reconnect with it, while also finding a new audience.
If you like romantic suspense, mysteries, or are a cat lover, you will probably enjoy this series.
This book will be featured on my blog’s Flashback Friday feature July 28, 2017- Look for it at: The Book Review- http://www.thebookreview.com ...more
Pudding up with Murder by Julia Buckley is a 2017 Berkley publication.
A wonderful combination of mystery and romance-
Lilah makes a ‘covered dish’ forPudding up with Murder by Julia Buckley is a 2017 Berkley publication.
A wonderful combination of mystery and romance-
Lilah makes a ‘covered dish’ for her friend to serve at a birthday party for millionaire, Marcus Cantwell. Lilah attends the party with her adorable dog and meets the large, unusual, and the complicated Cantwell family.
But, when Marcus keels over at his own party, it wasn’t from natural causes. Someone murdered him, and Lilah is afraid her pudding might have been the murder weapon.
This is the third installment in the ‘An Undercover Dish’ series, but it’s my first. However, the book can be read as a stand alone, although, I do want to read the first two books in the series now that I see how enjoyable it is.
While cozy mysteries can often feature a slight romantic side story, this one has a much stronger romantic element, which took up equal space with the mystery.
But, the two elements blend well with each other beautifully. I enjoyed getting to know Lilah and Jay, as well as the secondary characters.
The mystery is very puzzling, with plenty of suspects that kept me guessing all the way to the very end.
This cozy mystery has everything in it, I enjoy about this genre. Pets, food, great characters I can grow to care about and think of as old friends, and a good old fashioned whodunit.
I am definitely going to read the first two books in the series as well as eagerly anticipating the next installment.
Familiar Trouble by Carolyn Haines is a 2017 KaliOka Press publication.
I can’t tell you how excited I am about the return of the ‘Familiar’ series!! Familiar Trouble by Carolyn Haines is a 2017 KaliOka Press publication.
I can’t tell you how excited I am about the return of the ‘Familiar’ series!!
Tammy, a bookseller, has deep ties in Wetumpka, Alabama. Small town life suits her best, but even small towns are not immune to crimes… even murder. However, Wetumpka is about to experience a highly unusual wave of murders when it appears the ‘Silk Stocking Killer' has chosen to settle down in the small town.
When Tammy and her ‘British’ cat, Trouble, discover the body of a woman, the local deputy, Aiden Waters is on the case.
Aiden and Tammy discover they have a simmering connection between them, but Aiden is a man on a mission, determined to find the ‘SSK’ no matter how often he must relocate, which means he can’t settle down until the murderer is caught, and that kind of throws a wet blanket on their romance.
As the bodies begin piling up, it becomes clear that Tammy could be in danger, which brings out ‘Trouble’ and Aiden’s protectiveness, while Tammy does a little amateur sleuthing.
Will they find the killer before Tammy becomes his next victim?
Many of you remember the ‘Familiar’ series written by ‘Caroline Burnes’ which began in the 1990’s. The romantic suspense series featured a cat named ‘Familiar’ who has uncanny detective skills. The long running series ended several years ago, but several of the books, are being released in digital format and are now available in the Kindle store. It’s been a long time since I read a book from that series, but I do remember I enjoyed them a lot and it will be fun to read them again. If you like this book, you might enjoy the original series as well.
However, this book in the beginning of a new series, a spin off, or ‘the next generation’, if you will, featuring ‘Familiar’s’ son, ‘Trouble.’ ‘Trouble’ has inherited his dad’s detecting skills and after helping protect Tammy and solve the case, he is ready to use those skills full time, taking on cases as they come.
This is a wonderful start to what I hope will be another long running romantic suspense/ cozy mystery series. This story was very well rounded, with a well plotted, twisty, mystery coupled with a nice romantic element and the shout out to cat lovers everywhere, with ‘Trouble’ developing his newly discovered detecting skills. The smart, black cat, often steals the show, with his running monologue that is often hilarious, but always heartfelt.
As an animal lover, I am drawn to books that feature pets and animals. I do, however, like it to stay on the plausible side of things, if at all possible. This book gives ‘Trouble’ a wonderfully delightful disposition and personality, and because I know cats can do incredible things for their humans, I enjoyed the whimsical quality, ‘Trouble’ brought to the story, and I believed in his incredible talent and loved his loyalty.
The human characters were okay, too. LOL! No, seriously, I really loved seeing Tammy’s character growth, and was happy she is comfortable in her own skin now, unafraid of trusting people, and can find peace and contentment no matter what the future holds.
If you enjoy romantic suspense, cozy mysteries, or books that feature pets and animals, I really think you will enjoy this one!!
I can’t wait to see what adventure await ‘Trouble’ in the future!
Not a Sound by Heather Gudenkauf is a 2017 Park Row Books publication.
This novel delves deeper than the taut, suspenseful elements, touching upon somNot a Sound by Heather Gudenkauf is a 2017 Park Row Books publication.
This novel delves deeper than the taut, suspenseful elements, touching upon some timely issues, while creating a sympathetic character, in Amelia Winn, that is at once vulnerable, but whose resilience is inspiring.
Amelia Winn is an RN, happily married, with a step daughter she adores, when her life changes on a dime. She is left profoundly deaf after a horrific car crash. Her equilibrium is knocked out of whack in more ways than one, and she turns to alcohol to cope, which causes her marriage to end.
Now, she is slowly fighting her way back, looking for work, and trying to be a mom to her beloved step daughter, with the help of her good friend, Jake, and ‘Stitch’, her therapy dog. Yet, just before a promising job interview, Amelia discovers the body of a woman she was once friends with, and her life once more spirals into dangerous territory.
The story got off to a deceptively slow start, but the isolated atmosphere was perfect for eliciting a few spine tingles, setting the stage for some tense, nerve wracking suspense.
It is hard enough to find oneself in imminent danger, but it’s doubly hard when you are handicapped in some way. Amelia’s deafness puts her in a perilous situation, when she begins to dig into the circumstances of her friend’s death, and someone isn’t pleased about it.
While this approach has shown up in books, television, and movies, it never fails to make me nervous, making my palms sweat. The final showdown nearly gave me a heart attack, but on a more serious note, the author delved into some uncomfortable topics, such as cancer, and the dangerous temptations, some healthcare providers may entertain, which should send even more chills down your spine.
The downside is a certain amount of predictability since I think seasoned readers will have the ‘who’ part figured out, although that really doesn’t have much of an effect on the suspense levels, in my opinion. However, there were some implausible moments, here and there, and the wrap up was too brisk, with some issues hurriedly glossed over.
On the plus side, Stitch is a real hero, and I love it when a book showcases the work these specially trained dogs do for humans.
Overall, this is a very suspenseful, thought provoking psychological thriller.
Curiosity Thrilled the Cat: A Magical Cats Mystery by Sofie Kelly is a 2011 NAL publication.
Cats, libraries and books are a winning trifecta, and theCuriosity Thrilled the Cat: A Magical Cats Mystery by Sofie Kelly is a 2011 NAL publication.
Cats, libraries and books are a winning trifecta, and they tend to complement each other, especially well when these three elements apply to mystery novels. So, it’s no surprise that there is no shortage of mystery series, especially in the cozy genre, featuring cats, books, and libraries, in one combination or another.
I wasn’t sure about this series when it was recommended to me, because, although I love it when pets and animals have a role in a story, I’m not especially fond of the magical or paranormal elements, since, well, it’s just too silly for me. But, in this case, I found the entire story very charming. The mystery is solid, well plotted, with quick pacing, strong dialogue, with a little humor sprinkled in along the way.
Hercules and Owen, Kathleen Paulson’s adopted cats, are ‘special’, and they do help Kathleen find clues, in small ways, but I found myself caught up in the spirt of the book, and enjoyed the pure whimsy of it. In fact, the cats are what made the book so utterly charming.
Kathleen is a likeable character who is licking her wounds after a bad break up, and adjusting to small town life, as well as her decision to try a super short hairdo, which is driving her nuts. (I can relate!) Her new job as the town’s librarian is fraught with a plethora of issues due to a major renovation, which is not going so well.
But, when Kathleen finds the body of a famous, and difficult, musical conductor, things get a whole lot worse when she discovers she is suspect number one.
Things get dicey from there as she copes with Marcus, the detective working the case, and a string of ‘accidents’, as well as feeling as though someone doesn’t want the library renovated, for some reason.
This first book in a series, sets the stage for future installments, giving it a nice foundation to build on. So, overall, this one turned out to be an unexpected pleasure, so I’ll be adding yet another series to my enormous TBR pile.
Mercury by Margot Livesey is a 2016 Harper publication.
This book has cropped up on my radar several times in the last several weeks. I have so many bMercury by Margot Livesey is a 2016 Harper publication.
This book has cropped up on my radar several times in the last several weeks. I have so many books in my TBR pile, I really didn’t need to add another library book on top of that, plus readers seemed to have a mixed response to it. Yet, every time I read the blurb, I found myself intrigued more and more, so I relented and checked it out.
The phrase ‘compulsively readable’ came to mind when I started reading this book. Donald’s first person narrative sucked me into the story right away and I just couldn't stop reading.
As the clever cover art hints at, Donald is an optometrist, originally from Scotland, married with two children. But, when his father passes away after a lengthy illness, Donald experiences intense grief, while his wife, Viv, seems to experience relief. Not only that, a new love has entered Viv’s life… no, it’s not another man… it’s a horse.
Viv also get a turn at telling her side of things, but her voice is not as heartfelt, or as poignant as Donald’s and of course by the time she gets her say, I knew things about her that made it hard to sympathize.
While the book is placed in the mystery, crime, thriller category, it’s not just about the crime. It’s about what leads up to it that makes the book hard to put down. Donald is great at dropping little ‘If only I had known then, what I know now’ statements that gives the reader hints and causes much speculation, creating an atmosphere of foreboding.
This is another one of those books, though, that if you are anticipating the usual thriller format, you will find yourself becoming very frustrated. It is not until very deep into the book that the crime is revealed, along with the motive. From there the fallout revolves around the couple's crisis of conscience.
For me, it’s a portrait of a marriage, as much as it is about a crime. The secrets they keep, the complacency and neglect that leads, in no small part to jealousy, obsession, and a need to recapture something lost, and eventually about accountability. While this is interesting if you enjoy breaking down the complexities of marriage, it is a slow moving story, and the ending is not at all satisfying.
I have mixed feelings about the book, overall. It started off strong, but lost significant ground during the last quarter of the book and ended up falling a little flat.
If you are looking for a traditional crime novel, this one might not be exactly what you are looking for, but it's worth a look if you are a fan of this author or you enjoy reading contemporary fiction or literature.
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