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Nick and Nora Mysteries #3
Crime and Catnip
Nick and Nora aren’t just pussyfooting around this time as they deal with a missing person’s case and murder.
While catering a gala for the Cruz Museum, Nora Charles agrees to look into the disappearance of director Violet Crenshaw’s niece, a case previously undertaken by her frisky feline friend Nick’s former owner, a private eye whose whereabouts are also currently unknown.
As Nora and her curious cat Nick pull at the string of clues, they begin to unravel a twisted tale of coded messages, theft, false identities, murder, and international espionage. Nora dares to hope that the labyrinth of leads will not only help them locate the missing young woman, but also solve the disappearance of the detective. That’s if Nora can stay alive long enough to find him...
While catering a gala for the Cruz Museum, Nora Charles agrees to look into the disappearance of director Violet Crenshaw’s niece, a case previously undertaken by her frisky feline friend Nick’s former owner, a private eye whose whereabouts are also currently unknown.
As Nora and her curious cat Nick pull at the string of clues, they begin to unravel a twisted tale of coded messages, theft, false identities, murder, and international espionage. Nora dares to hope that the labyrinth of leads will not only help them locate the missing young woman, but also solve the disappearance of the detective. That’s if Nora can stay alive long enough to find him...
293 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published December 6, 2016
28 people are currently reading
1265 people want to read
About the author
T.C. LoTempio
26 books746 followersBorn in New York City, T. C. LoTempio is the national bestselling author of Meow If It’s Murder, the first in the Nick and Nora Mystery series.
She has been a staff reporter at the young adult magazine Susabella Passengers and Friends for more than a decade.
While Toni LoTempio does not commit – or solve – murders in real life, she has no trouble doing it on paper.
Her lifelong love of mysteries began early on when she was introduced to her first Nancy Drew mystery at age 10 – The Secret in the Old Attic. She lists among her favorite mystery/suspense writers Erle Stanley Gardner, Mary Higgins Clark and James Patterson, as well as EJ Copperman, Steve Hockensmith, Victoria Laurie, Ali Brandon, Rita Mae Brown, Miranda James and Sofie Kelly to name only a few!
Toni is also passionate about her love for animals, as demonstrated with her four cats: Trixie, Princess, Maxx and, of course, ROCCO, who not only provided the inspiration for the character of Nick the cat in the Nick and Nora mystery series, but who also writes his own blog and does charity work for Nathan Fillion’s charity, Kids Need to Read!
Toni’s also devoted to miniseries like The Thorn Birds, Dancing with the Stars, reruns of Murder She Wrote and Castle (of course!).
She (and ROCCO, albeit he’s uncredited) pen the Nick and Nora mystery series from Berkley Prime Crime.
She, Rocco and company make their home in Clifton, New Jersey, just twenty minutes from the Big Apple – New York
She has been a staff reporter at the young adult magazine Susabella Passengers and Friends for more than a decade.
While Toni LoTempio does not commit – or solve – murders in real life, she has no trouble doing it on paper.
Her lifelong love of mysteries began early on when she was introduced to her first Nancy Drew mystery at age 10 – The Secret in the Old Attic. She lists among her favorite mystery/suspense writers Erle Stanley Gardner, Mary Higgins Clark and James Patterson, as well as EJ Copperman, Steve Hockensmith, Victoria Laurie, Ali Brandon, Rita Mae Brown, Miranda James and Sofie Kelly to name only a few!
Toni is also passionate about her love for animals, as demonstrated with her four cats: Trixie, Princess, Maxx and, of course, ROCCO, who not only provided the inspiration for the character of Nick the cat in the Nick and Nora mystery series, but who also writes his own blog and does charity work for Nathan Fillion’s charity, Kids Need to Read!
Toni’s also devoted to miniseries like The Thorn Birds, Dancing with the Stars, reruns of Murder She Wrote and Castle (of course!).
She (and ROCCO, albeit he’s uncredited) pen the Nick and Nora mystery series from Berkley Prime Crime.
She, Rocco and company make their home in Clifton, New Jersey, just twenty minutes from the Big Apple – New York
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 82 reviews
December 29, 2016
Dollycas’s Thoughts
Nick and Nora are back for the 3rd story in this series and they have their hands/paws full. Nora is still trying to track down human Nick, she is catering a huge gala and the director of the event has asked her to continue the case human Nick was on when he disappeared, and then of course there is a dead body found at the gala and maybe some missing jewels. Could all these things be tied together? You will have to read the book to find out.
Ms. LoTempio has written a very complex mystery for us to solve. Thankfully Nick, the cat, is there to help both us and Nora find and follow all the clues. He is one smart feline. I still think there is so much more to his story but events in this book have me rethinking my original theory. He and Nora along with Nick’s (the human) old partner have to work out secret codes that may lead to international espionage plus Nick (the cat) uses his unique talents to communicate with Nora and help her out of a few dicey situations. If she would just share her info with the hunky law enforcement officers that are prominent in her life before she goes too far… instead of after her life would be a bit safer. I do love the way they show up just after the “nick” of time. All of these characters are so fun and unique.
One thing I have learned reading this series is the author loves to twist things up as much as she can. That is the reason that once you start reading it is very hard to stop. This one kept me up extra late and I needed a midnight snack too.
Nora runs her mother’s sandwich shop where she serves sandwiches named after actors and actresses. At the end of this book you will find recipes for the Hugh Jackman Sub and the Emma Stone Capri Sandwich, and many others are described within the story. My mouth was watering.
I love this series and each new story quickly becomes my favorite. There is a cliffhanger at the end that leaves me so excited for the next story to be released. Should be out in November or December of 2017. A whole year…I don’t like it but I can make it because I know good things come to those who wait.
Nick and Nora are back for the 3rd story in this series and they have their hands/paws full. Nora is still trying to track down human Nick, she is catering a huge gala and the director of the event has asked her to continue the case human Nick was on when he disappeared, and then of course there is a dead body found at the gala and maybe some missing jewels. Could all these things be tied together? You will have to read the book to find out.
Ms. LoTempio has written a very complex mystery for us to solve. Thankfully Nick, the cat, is there to help both us and Nora find and follow all the clues. He is one smart feline. I still think there is so much more to his story but events in this book have me rethinking my original theory. He and Nora along with Nick’s (the human) old partner have to work out secret codes that may lead to international espionage plus Nick (the cat) uses his unique talents to communicate with Nora and help her out of a few dicey situations. If she would just share her info with the hunky law enforcement officers that are prominent in her life before she goes too far… instead of after her life would be a bit safer. I do love the way they show up just after the “nick” of time. All of these characters are so fun and unique.
One thing I have learned reading this series is the author loves to twist things up as much as she can. That is the reason that once you start reading it is very hard to stop. This one kept me up extra late and I needed a midnight snack too.
Nora runs her mother’s sandwich shop where she serves sandwiches named after actors and actresses. At the end of this book you will find recipes for the Hugh Jackman Sub and the Emma Stone Capri Sandwich, and many others are described within the story. My mouth was watering.
I love this series and each new story quickly becomes my favorite. There is a cliffhanger at the end that leaves me so excited for the next story to be released. Should be out in November or December of 2017. A whole year…I don’t like it but I can make it because I know good things come to those who wait.
July 10, 2017
Can you say coincidences? This series is really just one coincidence after another every single character it seems is involved in at least 2 of the 3 mysteries in this book. But least I judge it too harshly the cat does some outlandish stuff and if that's not bothering me I don't know why I let a few coincidences. This is the last of the books released so far and I liked all three so if they do a fourth I'll read right along.
Hey you gotta love a cat that plays scrabble, right.
Also a shout out to the author who does charity work for Nathan Fillion’s charity, Kids Need to Read!
Hey you gotta love a cat that plays scrabble, right.
Also a shout out to the author who does charity work for Nathan Fillion’s charity, Kids Need to Read!
January 23, 2017
4.25 Stars
Sexual Content: None
Language (Profanity/Slang) Content: Mild
Violent Content: Minimal
Nora Charles is hired for a catering gala job at the Cruz museum. Museum director Violet Crenshaw wants Nora to find her niece who has gone missing. While doing her best to hunt down the missing woman, Nora comes across a dead body, theft, and mysterious messages in code from a missing PI and more.
Crime and Catnip is a tightly woven mystery with interesting characters and a strong, self sufficient heroine. Nora and Nick, her cat, have a fun relationship where Nick helps Nora with clues throughout the book.
I felt that Crime and Catnip was the best book in the series so far, and it ties in well with the two previous stories. Because of this, I feel that it is a good idea to read this book after the first two. There is also a touch of romance between Nora and her current boyfriend, but she may possibly has some unresolved feelings towards another cop.
Again, as in the previous books, there is talk of the missing detective and original owner of Nick. The author teases the reader with a few mysterious notes from the PI (also named Nick), but nothing specific. This leaves the reader guessing as to whether or not the PI or someone else sent the messages. It will be interesting to see if Nick the PI ever shows up in the series. My guess is that it may happen in the final book.
Crime and Catnip is the third book in the Nick and Nora mystery series by T.C. LoTempio and it’s a good one; my favorite so far.
-- WENDY
December 8, 2016
This has quickly become one of my favorite cozy mystery series. T.C. LoTempio never fails to disappoint. The author has a great flair for the mystery and keeps readers guessing to the end. She tosses in twists and turns which will satisfy all mystery lovers.
Nora is a strong female lead character with a handsome sidekick named Nick. Nick, of course, is a cat. A very smart cat. I’m in love with the cat. LOL The cat has a huge role in solving the mystery…he’s not just a pretty face on the cover :)
The secondary cast is well written and each one has their own distinctive personality.
Crime and Catnip is the third book in the series. I’ve already read and loved the previous two books. I do think each mystery stands alone, although there is the continuing mystery of what has happened to Nick’s previous owner that runs through the series.
I’m anxiously awaiting the next entry into this fun series.
FTC Disclosure: I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own.
Nora is a strong female lead character with a handsome sidekick named Nick. Nick, of course, is a cat. A very smart cat. I’m in love with the cat. LOL The cat has a huge role in solving the mystery…he’s not just a pretty face on the cover :)
The secondary cast is well written and each one has their own distinctive personality.
Crime and Catnip is the third book in the series. I’ve already read and loved the previous two books. I do think each mystery stands alone, although there is the continuing mystery of what has happened to Nick’s previous owner that runs through the series.
I’m anxiously awaiting the next entry into this fun series.
FTC Disclosure: I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own.
December 16, 2016
I haven't read the first two books in the Nick & Nora Mysteries series but it was so interesting and I was told it should've been fine as a standalone. Of course, reading in order is always better but a lot of series pull it off to where you can jump in and feel like you're not missing anything.
That wasn't entirely successful for Crime & Catnip though. I recommend reading this if you're read the series or starting at the beginning with Meow If It's Murder. You can skip like I did, but it'll only wind up Good instead of Great.
There's plenty to love though and I really wish I'd had time and the ability to read the first two novels for receiving this one for review.
I liked Nora, her shop, her friends, and her crime reporting past. I didn’t get her reluctance to talk to the two law enforcement officers working the case. There’s mention of a time where she jumped the gun, but I didn’t feel it.
The same can be said for the current beau and the former one night stand.
The parts I was most excited for was Nick the Cat and the mystery. They were equal parts fascinating and confusing.
Considering how much the past wound up involved in everything including the mystery, I really screwed myself on this one. So, spoonful of salt for this one folks but my reading experience was 3 stars.
Solid elements and storytelling but the background is extremely necessary for them to come off as realistic, reasonable people instead of a canny valley Twilight Zone episode.
Players from the previous books pop back up like Wak-a-Moles. There’s information on how they’re connected but that’s not the same thing as actually reading their history for yourself. And this isn’t some simple small town shenanigans of warring neighbors.
I think Nick the Cat wouldn’t have come off as creepily paranormally gifted – I was seriously thinking Nick the Human was transformed into the cat—if I’d read everyone being shocked and getting used to Nick in the first book.
I think seeing how Nora and FBI Dude got together and how they were burned by their last relationships would’ve made them more understandable. As it is, meh. Scaredy cats with no chemistry.
Also, if I’m to believe Nora and the Cop have a chance, her friends need to make better arguments. I’m in the “he’s a typical guy and she’s a commitment-phobe so she’s creating problems” rather than sparks are flying and none are hitting the page.
I cannot say this enough: it boils down to the fact I skipped ahead. I think this series would be great for those who want focus on the mystery and sleuthing with a familiar rather than interpersonal drama and romance. It’s toned down compared to most cozies, swapping the hijinks for more complicated relationships and intrigue.
But start at the beginning to give it a fair shot.
That wasn't entirely successful for Crime & Catnip though. I recommend reading this if you're read the series or starting at the beginning with Meow If It's Murder. You can skip like I did, but it'll only wind up Good instead of Great.
There's plenty to love though and I really wish I'd had time and the ability to read the first two novels for receiving this one for review.
I liked Nora, her shop, her friends, and her crime reporting past. I didn’t get her reluctance to talk to the two law enforcement officers working the case. There’s mention of a time where she jumped the gun, but I didn’t feel it.
The same can be said for the current beau and the former one night stand.
The parts I was most excited for was Nick the Cat and the mystery. They were equal parts fascinating and confusing.
Considering how much the past wound up involved in everything including the mystery, I really screwed myself on this one. So, spoonful of salt for this one folks but my reading experience was 3 stars.
Solid elements and storytelling but the background is extremely necessary for them to come off as realistic, reasonable people instead of a canny valley Twilight Zone episode.
Players from the previous books pop back up like Wak-a-Moles. There’s information on how they’re connected but that’s not the same thing as actually reading their history for yourself. And this isn’t some simple small town shenanigans of warring neighbors.
I think Nick the Cat wouldn’t have come off as creepily paranormally gifted – I was seriously thinking Nick the Human was transformed into the cat—if I’d read everyone being shocked and getting used to Nick in the first book.
I think seeing how Nora and FBI Dude got together and how they were burned by their last relationships would’ve made them more understandable. As it is, meh. Scaredy cats with no chemistry.
Also, if I’m to believe Nora and the Cop have a chance, her friends need to make better arguments. I’m in the “he’s a typical guy and she’s a commitment-phobe so she’s creating problems” rather than sparks are flying and none are hitting the page.
I cannot say this enough: it boils down to the fact I skipped ahead. I think this series would be great for those who want focus on the mystery and sleuthing with a familiar rather than interpersonal drama and romance. It’s toned down compared to most cozies, swapping the hijinks for more complicated relationships and intrigue.
But start at the beginning to give it a fair shot.
January 5, 2017
4.5 stars for this cozy mystery. Nora Charles, owner of the Hot Bread Sandwich Shop, agrees to cater an event at the Cruz Museum. Nora also writes articles for a crime magazine and has a reputation for solving mysteries. She has agreed to look into the disappearance of the museum director's niece. And she continues to try to find her cat's former owner, a private investigator who has also gone missing but is sending postcards from New Orleans with coded messages. First off, she hopes no one tries to steal the main attraction at the museum's special event which may be too much to hope for since an attempt has already been made in London.
Cozy mystery fans will love this entertaining book due to its multiple mysteries, tasty food and extremely intelligent cat. Dogs are my animals of choice but I was highly impressed with the cat in this book. This was my first read of the series but I would definitely read more.
I won this book in a Goodreads giveaway.
Cozy mystery fans will love this entertaining book due to its multiple mysteries, tasty food and extremely intelligent cat. Dogs are my animals of choice but I was highly impressed with the cat in this book. This was my first read of the series but I would definitely read more.
I won this book in a Goodreads giveaway.
January 11, 2017
A wonderful read in this fun series. The mystery was fast paced and kept me guessing will up until the very end. I love the companionship between Nora and little Nicky in these stories. Nicky comes across as almost human sometimes in the way he tries to explain the clues to Nora, but then he can be just as cunning and demanding as cats can be. I just love him and he has become one of my favorite pets in cozies.
Very much looking forward to the next book in the series.
Very much looking forward to the next book in the series.
August 2, 2017
I see a crazy love triangle sort of coming about. And it will be nutty.
In this wonderful installment a crush from the past enters Nora’s present and we see her a little flustered. In the meantime Nick is a hoot trying to help her with several mysteries, she is dealing with someone wanting her dead, figuring out if Nick’s owner Nick is still alive and where he is, helping Violet, catering a museum function, solving a murder, finding her way with Daniel and learning the truth. A lot is on Nora’s plate but she takes it all in stride and with the help of Chantel and Nick we get a fun and sweet story.
Daniel is back and he is on the case but in different ways. He is also smitten with Nora and you can see he wants to go further but Nora is gunshy when it comes to this. She is also flummoxed by Lee being back. Lee and her have some crazy chemistry I just can’t decide how I feel about it. I am so team Daniel though.
Nick the cat is a hoot and I think he even gets a girlfriend or at least an accomplice in his crime solving ways. He is one smart cookie and is a great addition tot he story. His way of giving clues is awesome and his protective nature of Nora is super awesome. He also is a great judge of character.
The story is fun and fast paced. There is never a boring moment with Nora and this gang. Here they are solving the mystery of the grimoire, a death and her and Ollie some postcards to find out about Nick. There isn’t a moment where the craziness doesn’t have you smile and laugh. Nora and Daniel are sweet and cute together. Daniel is a great guy and Nora is a fun and smart girl. He admires her and her tenacity but is also crazed with worry and that has you aww over how adorable they are and he is for her.
Lance and his drinks and information to help with clues of the murder is awesome. He cracks me up. The twists and turns with cryptic clues has you hanging on to each page wanting to figure out what is going on while just enjoying the entertainment the book gives you. I so did not see the ending for the who done it and why. I also didn’t expect the wrinkles that come about.
This book is entertaining and fun.Sweet and twisty. It is one to sit back and just enjoy the moment as you get characters from the past give clues and some have you smile at their antics. The story has you playing clue and jumping into the mystery with gusto working with Nora and Daniel to solve the mystery. A really fun addition to this series that is just a great mystery series.
In this wonderful installment a crush from the past enters Nora’s present and we see her a little flustered. In the meantime Nick is a hoot trying to help her with several mysteries, she is dealing with someone wanting her dead, figuring out if Nick’s owner Nick is still alive and where he is, helping Violet, catering a museum function, solving a murder, finding her way with Daniel and learning the truth. A lot is on Nora’s plate but she takes it all in stride and with the help of Chantel and Nick we get a fun and sweet story.
Daniel is back and he is on the case but in different ways. He is also smitten with Nora and you can see he wants to go further but Nora is gunshy when it comes to this. She is also flummoxed by Lee being back. Lee and her have some crazy chemistry I just can’t decide how I feel about it. I am so team Daniel though.
Nick the cat is a hoot and I think he even gets a girlfriend or at least an accomplice in his crime solving ways. He is one smart cookie and is a great addition tot he story. His way of giving clues is awesome and his protective nature of Nora is super awesome. He also is a great judge of character.
The story is fun and fast paced. There is never a boring moment with Nora and this gang. Here they are solving the mystery of the grimoire, a death and her and Ollie some postcards to find out about Nick. There isn’t a moment where the craziness doesn’t have you smile and laugh. Nora and Daniel are sweet and cute together. Daniel is a great guy and Nora is a fun and smart girl. He admires her and her tenacity but is also crazed with worry and that has you aww over how adorable they are and he is for her.
Lance and his drinks and information to help with clues of the murder is awesome. He cracks me up. The twists and turns with cryptic clues has you hanging on to each page wanting to figure out what is going on while just enjoying the entertainment the book gives you. I so did not see the ending for the who done it and why. I also didn’t expect the wrinkles that come about.
This book is entertaining and fun.Sweet and twisty. It is one to sit back and just enjoy the moment as you get characters from the past give clues and some have you smile at their antics. The story has you playing clue and jumping into the mystery with gusto working with Nora and Daniel to solve the mystery. A really fun addition to this series that is just a great mystery series.
December 2, 2019
I love that Nick the cat can understand everything his human says and communicate his thoughts in a rather efficient manner. In fact, Nick is better at communicating than Nora, who breaks into crime scenes and hides clues from her FBI boyfriend, saying that she wants to find proof and wrap things up before turning her findings over to the authorities (IMHO this is the cardinal sin of cozies). She constantly puts herself in danger by investigating in dark and isolated spots on her own. Good thing her cat is smarter than she is.
Nora, the FBI has excellent resources - work WITH your boyfriend and he and the cat won't have to save you every time you do something dumb.
Nora, the FBI has excellent resources - work WITH your boyfriend and he and the cat won't have to save you every time you do something dumb.
March 9, 2018
Another fun installment in this series, although one weird thing annoyed me. HOW can Nora NOT see the 'secret' message in the notes Nick sends? It is the most obvious code ever and it annoyed me to have both her and her friend completely miss it. Anyhoo...
Three books in and we're still not really closer to working out what happened to Nick the PI, and why Nick the cat is so super smart. He's almost like magic, and he gives the most obvious clues to poor Nora. She's getting there though and hopefully they work together in the next book to solve more crimes.
Always a delight, five stars.
Three books in and we're still not really closer to working out what happened to Nick the PI, and why Nick the cat is so super smart. He's almost like magic, and he gives the most obvious clues to poor Nora. She's getting there though and hopefully they work together in the next book to solve more crimes.
Always a delight, five stars.
August 20, 2017
Psychic cat who plays scrabble helps the main character solve mysteries. She has a boyfriend in the FBI, but doesn't tell him what's going on and gets attacked when it might have been avoided. Too much deus ex machina for my taste.
October 24, 2024
Such a fun mystery. And I love the cat. Don't love the love triangle so Star off for that. This is becoming one of my favorite cozy mystery authors.
December 10, 2016
I loved it! I am still in love with little Nick, the cat who had once been named Sherlock and owned by a PI named Nick who disappeared some time ago. The author has once again penned a fun, challenging mystery that could rival that of her literary favorites.
Nora has a last-minute, huge catering gig with the local Cruz Museum with a medieval theme. Her gig takes her to one of the central mysteries, where guy-friend Daniel, with the FBI, is one of the undercover guards for an ancient book of spells that is enhanced with valuable gemstones giving special power to some of those spells. She is also making inquiries about one of the director's niece who had not been seen for months and was feared dead.
Nick gives Nora his all as he tries hard to protect her from her own investigations; he not only tries to give her clues but also seems to appear at the most apropos times when she needs his help the most.
Don't miss this 3rd in series - it absolutely is one of the handful of cozy mystery cats that I adore, and his mistress is a force to be reckoned with when she begins to solve a murder or work an investigation. She might own and operate what had been her mother's sandwich shop, but her years of being an investigative reporter of some renown give her an edge over some of the guys in blue.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher but was not required to give a positive review.
Nora has a last-minute, huge catering gig with the local Cruz Museum with a medieval theme. Her gig takes her to one of the central mysteries, where guy-friend Daniel, with the FBI, is one of the undercover guards for an ancient book of spells that is enhanced with valuable gemstones giving special power to some of those spells. She is also making inquiries about one of the director's niece who had not been seen for months and was feared dead.
Nick gives Nora his all as he tries hard to protect her from her own investigations; he not only tries to give her clues but also seems to appear at the most apropos times when she needs his help the most.
Don't miss this 3rd in series - it absolutely is one of the handful of cozy mystery cats that I adore, and his mistress is a force to be reckoned with when she begins to solve a murder or work an investigation. She might own and operate what had been her mother's sandwich shop, but her years of being an investigative reporter of some renown give her an edge over some of the guys in blue.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher but was not required to give a positive review.
December 12, 2016
Princess Fuzzypants here:
Catnip and Crime is the latest installment of the Nick and Nora series by Toni LoTempio. I confess to having a "thing" about Rocco who is Toni's writing partner. He and I are furriends but that doesn't colour my review.
I loved this book. I think it is the best one yet. Yes, Nora is still doing silly things by not sharing what she learns with the two hunky cops who flit around her. She puts herself in harm's way and it is a good thing that Nick is there.
He is smart, resourceful, brave, handsome *Sigh*. I really do have a "thing" about him too.
The book has a new mystery and murder thrown in but it is all mixed up with the story lines that have been building since the first book. For that reason, I think it would be best not to read this as a one-off. Go back to the beginning and see how it unwinds.
I was able to stay one step ahead of the revelations throughout most of the book but it did not stop my enjoyment. The mystery was tightly written so the clues were not obvious. Plus it left enough loose strands that the reader is going to want to follow this through to its conclusion. I know I will.
I give this five rousing purrs and two paws up. Great fireside reading over the holidays.
Catnip and Crime is the latest installment of the Nick and Nora series by Toni LoTempio. I confess to having a "thing" about Rocco who is Toni's writing partner. He and I are furriends but that doesn't colour my review.
I loved this book. I think it is the best one yet. Yes, Nora is still doing silly things by not sharing what she learns with the two hunky cops who flit around her. She puts herself in harm's way and it is a good thing that Nick is there.
He is smart, resourceful, brave, handsome *Sigh*. I really do have a "thing" about him too.
The book has a new mystery and murder thrown in but it is all mixed up with the story lines that have been building since the first book. For that reason, I think it would be best not to read this as a one-off. Go back to the beginning and see how it unwinds.
I was able to stay one step ahead of the revelations throughout most of the book but it did not stop my enjoyment. The mystery was tightly written so the clues were not obvious. Plus it left enough loose strands that the reader is going to want to follow this through to its conclusion. I know I will.
I give this five rousing purrs and two paws up. Great fireside reading over the holidays.
December 6, 2016
I’ve been a fan of this since the first book, MEOW IF IT’S MURDER.
I’m so happy to have had the chance to once again spend time with Nora Charles and her feline buddy, Nick. This duo knows how to take a bite out of crime. And I’m sure Nick has no problem biting if he has to. For that matter, I think Nora wouldn’t either.
Author T. C. LoTempio’s writing has a certain something that grabs hold of the reader and won’t let go until the last page. As with books one and two, CRIME AND CATNAP quickly pulled me into the story, and there I stayed until I finished the last word. I will forgive Ms. LoTempio for keeping me up past my bed time. It was worth it a hundred times over.
CRIME AND CATNIP was a cozy with a little more than your normal element of suspense. With more than one mystery in play, Nora and Nick had their hands, and paws full. This tale of secret codes, espionage, and missing people will have you questioning everyone and everything.
Make sure to check out the simple yet yummy sandwich recipes at the end of the book!
I’m so happy to have had the chance to once again spend time with Nora Charles and her feline buddy, Nick. This duo knows how to take a bite out of crime. And I’m sure Nick has no problem biting if he has to. For that matter, I think Nora wouldn’t either.
Author T. C. LoTempio’s writing has a certain something that grabs hold of the reader and won’t let go until the last page. As with books one and two, CRIME AND CATNAP quickly pulled me into the story, and there I stayed until I finished the last word. I will forgive Ms. LoTempio for keeping me up past my bed time. It was worth it a hundred times over.
CRIME AND CATNIP was a cozy with a little more than your normal element of suspense. With more than one mystery in play, Nora and Nick had their hands, and paws full. This tale of secret codes, espionage, and missing people will have you questioning everyone and everything.
Make sure to check out the simple yet yummy sandwich recipes at the end of the book!
November 22, 2016
"Crime and Catnip" is a cozy mystery, though it's really more of a suspense. It's the third book in the series. You don't need to read the previous novels to understand this one, and this story didn't spoil the previous whodunits.
The cat is smarter than the humans and is a full partner in solving the crime and saving the day. It's also the first time I've come across a cat that goes to battle for his human, and it was fun to see a cat use his claws for a good cause. I'm not quite as fond of his human as she took evidence that the cops could have used, hid information from them, and kept putting herself in danger by doing so. There were clues and several layers of unknowns to uncover. But because she was in danger so much and because she acted on intuition rather than logic, the story felt more like a suspense than a mystery.
There was some bad language. There was no sex. Overall, I'd recommend this fun suspense novel.
I received this book as a review copy from the publisher.
The cat is smarter than the humans and is a full partner in solving the crime and saving the day. It's also the first time I've come across a cat that goes to battle for his human, and it was fun to see a cat use his claws for a good cause. I'm not quite as fond of his human as she took evidence that the cops could have used, hid information from them, and kept putting herself in danger by doing so. There were clues and several layers of unknowns to uncover. But because she was in danger so much and because she acted on intuition rather than logic, the story felt more like a suspense than a mystery.
There was some bad language. There was no sex. Overall, I'd recommend this fun suspense novel.
I received this book as a review copy from the publisher.
December 8, 2016
International intrigue, false identities, and a very clever cat will keep you guessing right up to the last moment of this cozy mystery. While meeting with a museum director to discuss a catering job, Nora finds herself also tasked with finding the director’s long lost niece and heir. When she isn’t running her sandwich shop, Hot Bread, Nora also spends some of her time looking into the disappearance of her cat Nick’s former owner, a detective who has been missing for some time. As cryptic messages come in, she eventually realizes that the two cases may be connected in some way. She just has to find the connection before the killer finds her!
Crime and Catnip is book #3 in the Nick and Nora mystery series, but even without having read the earlier two installments, I had no trouble figuring out who was who or what was going on.
Crime and Catnip is book #3 in the Nick and Nora mystery series, but even without having read the earlier two installments, I had no trouble figuring out who was who or what was going on.
December 11, 2016
Nora to accept a catering job for the Cruz museum. It is to be a masquerade. The Director Violet Crenshaw as Nora to look into the disappearance of her niece. At the affair Nick appears and with the help of another cat leads Nora to a murder victim. Disregarding, the advice of her FBI boyfriend and her former love police officer Nora with Buck's continues to search for Violet's niece.
Nick is an intelligent and inventive cat. Nora adopted him when he appeared at her doorstep. She learned he was own by a PI Nick who has disappeared. The detective, Nick was looking for the missing woman at the time of his disappearance. I am looking forward to reading more about Nick and Nora in the dangerous understanding more of Nick's former owner.
Nick is an intelligent and inventive cat. Nora adopted him when he appeared at her doorstep. She learned he was own by a PI Nick who has disappeared. The detective, Nick was looking for the missing woman at the time of his disappearance. I am looking forward to reading more about Nick and Nora in the dangerous understanding more of Nick's former owner.
November 17, 2017
Good series with a pair of likeable sleuths - both human and feline.
March 18, 2021
Love this series!!! Nick puts a smile on my face. He is one smart cat!!
Merged review:
Such a great read!! Nick and Nora make a fantastic team!!
Merged review:
Such a great read!! Nick and Nora make a fantastic team!!
June 6, 2017
From the cover: While catering a gala for the Cruz Museum, Nora Charles agrees to look into the disappearance of director Violet Crenshaw’s niece, a case previously undertaken by her frisky feline friend Nick’s former owner, a private eye whose whereabouts are also currently unknown. As Nora and her curious cat Nick pull at the string of clues, they begin to unravel a twisted tale of coded messages, theft, false identities, murder, and international espionage. Nora dares to hope that the labyrinth of leads will not only help them locate the missing young woman, but also solve the disappearance of the detective. That’s if Nora can stay alive long enough to find him...
It was a fun and easy read. Once I started it, it was hard to put down. This is the third book in the series, but only the second one I have read (I must get the second book). I really like the main character Nora and love her cat Nick. Nick is a great tuxie and seems to have the ability to understand human speech. I like how the author uses Nick and his scrabble letters to help solve a problem Nora is having. The story is well written and has many twists and turns. I usually can determine the ‘bad guy’ early on in a book, but not in this one.
I highly recommend the book for cozy mystery readers and readers of cat stories. Oh on a final note, I like the ending. It leaves what I will call a cliffhanger for the next book.
It was a fun and easy read. Once I started it, it was hard to put down. This is the third book in the series, but only the second one I have read (I must get the second book). I really like the main character Nora and love her cat Nick. Nick is a great tuxie and seems to have the ability to understand human speech. I like how the author uses Nick and his scrabble letters to help solve a problem Nora is having. The story is well written and has many twists and turns. I usually can determine the ‘bad guy’ early on in a book, but not in this one.
I highly recommend the book for cozy mystery readers and readers of cat stories. Oh on a final note, I like the ending. It leaves what I will call a cliffhanger for the next book.
August 3, 2017
Nora Charles is the owner of Hot Bread Sandwich Shop. She has been asked to cater the Cruz Museum’s fundraiser. While there, the museum director, Violet Crenshaw asks Nora to look into a murder. Nora also learns about Morgan le Fay’s grimoire and how it is the main exhibit. She also learns that it is a very desired book and has almost been stolen in London. If that is not enough on her plate, she is still trying to find Nick. He has disappeared and although his partner Ollie thinks he is dead, they are receiving postcards from New Orleans with coded messages on them.
Nora runs a sandwich shop that she inherited from her mother along with Nick, a cat she inherited from missing PI Nick. She is very interested in where Nick is so she can discuss ownership of little Nick. She also write articles for a crime magazine and has a passion for solving mysteries. So when she is to look into the disappearance of Violates niece of course she is going to say yes along with helping to keep the grimoire safe. Nora is a great detective and a strong lead character for this book. Of course little Nick stole the show as he helps Nora out with clues.
This is the first book in this series that I have read. I had no problem figuring out what was going on. I really enjoyed this story and am excited to read the first two books in the series.
I received Crime and Catnip from Reading Addiction Virtual Book Tours for free. This has in no way influenced my opinion of this book.
Nora runs a sandwich shop that she inherited from her mother along with Nick, a cat she inherited from missing PI Nick. She is very interested in where Nick is so she can discuss ownership of little Nick. She also write articles for a crime magazine and has a passion for solving mysteries. So when she is to look into the disappearance of Violates niece of course she is going to say yes along with helping to keep the grimoire safe. Nora is a great detective and a strong lead character for this book. Of course little Nick stole the show as he helps Nora out with clues.
This is the first book in this series that I have read. I had no problem figuring out what was going on. I really enjoyed this story and am excited to read the first two books in the series.
I received Crime and Catnip from Reading Addiction Virtual Book Tours for free. This has in no way influenced my opinion of this book.
February 19, 2021
Nora's stubborness is on full display and at times she was reckless. She is not trying to help, but flat out solve the murder herself. Detective Leroy Samms, the old college fling, is back working on the case with her FBI love-interest. He continues to repeatedly tell Nora to stop asking questions or generally being involved. This gets old tiresome quick. FBI Agent Daniel Corleone gets a few good moments in the story, but is mostly alongside Samms. This is clearly a Samms vs Corleone sub-plot and I have already stated I'm team Corleone. Sister Lacey who was prevalent in the last book was absent this time around. Nick the cat is still the intuitive wonder, giving Nora clues via scrabble tiles and even helps rescue her. He adds a subtle touch of whimsy to the story.
The museum is an effective setting used to add another layer to the story. The plot was rewarding and more involved than I anticipated - Kudos. The pacing was maintained and I would read past my bedtime because I was enjoying the story.
The killer reveal is a two-part puzzle and with some good twists that I thoroughly enjoyed. The wrap up involves Nora's completion of her task for Violet Crenshaw.
I have to say, this series keeps getting better. It incorporates some plotting that could easily be in a grittier sleuthing book, but maintains the lighter cozy air for a wonderful escape.
Rating: Near Perfect - Couldn't Put it down. Buy two copies, one for you and one for a friend.
The museum is an effective setting used to add another layer to the story. The plot was rewarding and more involved than I anticipated - Kudos. The pacing was maintained and I would read past my bedtime because I was enjoying the story.
The killer reveal is a two-part puzzle and with some good twists that I thoroughly enjoyed. The wrap up involves Nora's completion of her task for Violet Crenshaw.
I have to say, this series keeps getting better. It incorporates some plotting that could easily be in a grittier sleuthing book, but maintains the lighter cozy air for a wonderful escape.
Rating: Near Perfect - Couldn't Put it down. Buy two copies, one for you and one for a friend.
March 31, 2023
Crime and Catnip by T.C. LoTempio, one of my favorite authors. Almost finished and I adore this Nick and Nora series. Nora Charles was crime reporter and then inherited her parent’s Hot Breads which she is trying to make financially successful. There is a lot of back story of how she got Nick, the extremely intelligent tuxedo cat but don’t want to go into that.
One of the reasons that I love this series is I used a wonderful intuitive tuxedo cat. On the day that my parakeet died, I was crying and she went out and caught a baby bird for me! I took the bird and went down the steps to the basement and let it out at the patio door. The bird flew off and I went back to thank my cat. She never brought me another bird, only that one. And was only of the stories that I have of her.
There is extensive interaction between Nick and Nora. He manages to help her figure out the mysteries, and gives her clues in many ways. His strong eyesight and sense of smell really help the mystery unravel. I read two other previous books in this series and I adore all of them. You learn a little about two different kinds of coding. The romance is light and Nora's are also helpful with the mystery.
This is third of the series and I recommend reading them in order so you can watch Nick and Nora's bonding grow.
One of the reasons that I love this series is I used a wonderful intuitive tuxedo cat. On the day that my parakeet died, I was crying and she went out and caught a baby bird for me! I took the bird and went down the steps to the basement and let it out at the patio door. The bird flew off and I went back to thank my cat. She never brought me another bird, only that one. And was only of the stories that I have of her.
There is extensive interaction between Nick and Nora. He manages to help her figure out the mysteries, and gives her clues in many ways. His strong eyesight and sense of smell really help the mystery unravel. I read two other previous books in this series and I adore all of them. You learn a little about two different kinds of coding. The romance is light and Nora's are also helpful with the mystery.
This is third of the series and I recommend reading them in order so you can watch Nick and Nora's bonding grow.
May 6, 2017
The 3rd book in T.C. LoTempio's "Nick and Nora Mysteries", "Crime and Catnip", is one of the more unusual mysteries I've ever read because not only of the plot w/in this book, but also because of the continuing theme which is a hallmark of this series. The main plot of the book surrounds a gala at the Cruz Museum to showcase a grimoire tied into Morgan LeFay of Arthurian fame. Along with that process, Nora agrees to investigate the disappearance of Nora Crenshaw's niece & Ollie gets postcards from Nick Atkins from New Orleans. While the gala appears to initially go off without a hitch things change when a body is found & a tale of intrigue & international espionage entail which keeps this book with its many moving parts stay fascinating as well as involving. LoTempio's continues to do a masterful job with the characters in this series as well as having Nick (the cat) come to Nora's rescue when needed as well as helping Nora & Ollie figure out more of the clues behind Nick's (the person) disappearance. There are a pair of mysteries in this book which get solved before the end and the 3rd ongoing one throughout the series gets a much needed aid in plot. Overall a very solid entry in this series which has this reader looking forward to the next installment in this series.
May 8, 2022
"Catnip & Crime," by Ms. T. C. LoTempio, is the third in the "Nick & Nora Mysteries," which is a series of Cozy Mysteries starring Nick, formerly known as Sherlock, a beautiful Tuxedo cat who helps his human, Nora Charles, solve mysteries.
This copy has a grand total of 296 pages, including two sandwich recipes, the "Hugh Jackman Sub" and the "Emma Stone Capri Sandwich." If I was a fan of horseradish, I have no doubt I would enjoy the "Hugh Jackman Sub," but since I love the ingredients of Caprese, I know I shall very much enjoy the "Emma Stone Capri Sandwich."
Well, Nora gets a big catering job in this one, and on the night of the museum gala (featuring her savory sandwiches, as well as new dishes as part of the Arthurian theme), she finds a body. A dead body.
Nora gets all the clues together, with the help of her able-bodied, strong-minded cat, Nick.
This one was a little more involved, as it involves Nick, as in the human Nick, the private detective who was previously Nick, the Cat's human.
This one definitely had me guessing, and it shed more light on Nick, the detective's life.
Another great one by Ms. T. C. LoTempio, and I certainly look forward to the next one, "Hiss H for Homicide."
This copy has a grand total of 296 pages, including two sandwich recipes, the "Hugh Jackman Sub" and the "Emma Stone Capri Sandwich." If I was a fan of horseradish, I have no doubt I would enjoy the "Hugh Jackman Sub," but since I love the ingredients of Caprese, I know I shall very much enjoy the "Emma Stone Capri Sandwich."
Well, Nora gets a big catering job in this one, and on the night of the museum gala (featuring her savory sandwiches, as well as new dishes as part of the Arthurian theme), she finds a body. A dead body.
Nora gets all the clues together, with the help of her able-bodied, strong-minded cat, Nick.
This one was a little more involved, as it involves Nick, as in the human Nick, the private detective who was previously Nick, the Cat's human.
This one definitely had me guessing, and it shed more light on Nick, the detective's life.
Another great one by Ms. T. C. LoTempio, and I certainly look forward to the next one, "Hiss H for Homicide."
October 27, 2022
This was a really cute little mystery. More general mystery than a cozy, but it still contains loads of cozy elements. I found the plot and setting interesting. The main character owns a sandwich shop which is catering a big party celebrating the opening of an exhibition at the local museum--the Grimoire of Morgan Le Fay. It was a fun concept and I really enjoyed it.
There is a main mystery, and then another, ongoing mystery that seems continued from the first couple of books in the series, which I haven't read. The author gets you up to speed quickly which is really nice. One thing I did have a hard time with was the large amount of characters, especially similar male characters and characters with similar names, but it wasn't too bad.
This was a solid 4 star for me. Good plot, red herrings, two mysteries, an intelligent cat that's not *too* intelligent, a curly red haired protagonist (😏) and references to Jessica Fletcher and Nancy Drew.
There is a main mystery, and then another, ongoing mystery that seems continued from the first couple of books in the series, which I haven't read. The author gets you up to speed quickly which is really nice. One thing I did have a hard time with was the large amount of characters, especially similar male characters and characters with similar names, but it wasn't too bad.
This was a solid 4 star for me. Good plot, red herrings, two mysteries, an intelligent cat that's not *too* intelligent, a curly red haired protagonist (😏) and references to Jessica Fletcher and Nancy Drew.
April 16, 2025
Do these get better as the series progresses? Cuz there just seemed to be a lot of stupid stuff in this one. e.g. Medical stuff. She drives into a tree, & a COP removes her from the car! She keeps trying to sit up, & turns her head more than once. Hello?? Ever hear of a C-collar, back board? Then there are the worn stereotypes of the cozy mystery: phone is not charged when needed, amateur detective "must" validate her theories & have them locked down tight & know that her info is important & relevant before passing it on to the police--including going to talk to the probable killer by herself. 🙄 The killer was a rather obvious suspect that should've been considered right away. The people that changed identities were kind of obvious, too, what with keeping the same initials. The cat is clearly the best part of this series, & probably the only reason I'll try another one. Later. I may be getting tired of the genre.
July 18, 2025
This quickly became one of my favorite series. Nifty premise of the main character inheriting her mother's sandwich shop in town not unlike Carmel CA and sort of inheriting a cat who is remarkably intelligent and helps solve crimes.
This particular entry is rather an intricate setup and more than one mystery going on that seem to e intertwined. Nora is lucky to have a group of friends who are willing to help when she asks. She's been asked to help cater an big event at the local museum and to investigate the disappearance of one of the main administrator's niece. There is a lot going on and I do wonder sometimes how Nora gets it all done, but it's mentioned every once in a while the hours of her sandwich shop and the help she gets there. I like that she's smart and intuitive. She's a weensy bit reckless but she has a good heart. The little bit of love triangle was a nice touch.
I can definitely recommend this book, series and author.
This particular entry is rather an intricate setup and more than one mystery going on that seem to e intertwined. Nora is lucky to have a group of friends who are willing to help when she asks. She's been asked to help cater an big event at the local museum and to investigate the disappearance of one of the main administrator's niece. There is a lot going on and I do wonder sometimes how Nora gets it all done, but it's mentioned every once in a while the hours of her sandwich shop and the help she gets there. I like that she's smart and intuitive. She's a weensy bit reckless but she has a good heart. The little bit of love triangle was a nice touch.
I can definitely recommend this book, series and author.
July 29, 2017
This is book 3 in the Nick & Nora Mysteries series, and I really wish I had read the previous books as I did feel a little lost at the beginning. There wasn't much back story but I soon got into the swing of the story and thoroughly enjoyed it.
Nick is crime solving cat with a love of scrabble letters, unlike other stories featuring pets/animals I found him to be quirky and an integral part of the story. His former owner who is a PI has been missing since the first book and even in this story he is still very much missing, so Nick has taken it upon himself to adopt Nora as his new human counterpart.
This was a quirky cozy mystery that the author has weaved a fun and easy read, with twists and turns that kept me guessing throughout, not only did Nora and cat Nick try to solve the disappearance of her friends niece but she also continued to try and find out what has happened to human Nick. I wonder when he will finally make an appearance.
**I received an ARC which I have volunteered to share my review and all the opinions are 100% my own.**
Nick is crime solving cat with a love of scrabble letters, unlike other stories featuring pets/animals I found him to be quirky and an integral part of the story. His former owner who is a PI has been missing since the first book and even in this story he is still very much missing, so Nick has taken it upon himself to adopt Nora as his new human counterpart.
This was a quirky cozy mystery that the author has weaved a fun and easy read, with twists and turns that kept me guessing throughout, not only did Nora and cat Nick try to solve the disappearance of her friends niece but she also continued to try and find out what has happened to human Nick. I wonder when he will finally make an appearance.
**I received an ARC which I have volunteered to share my review and all the opinions are 100% my own.**
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