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Cat Rescue Mystery #2
Death By A Whisker
Getting used to life back home in Deer Park, North Carolina, Sydney McCall and her right-hand tabby, Toby, are helping her sister Kat run the local animal shelter. Syd and Kat are all excited about the prospect of the shelter's newest fundraiser: shopping channel queen Ulla Townsend. Shelter admin Maggie Shayne vehemently refuses to have anything to do with the woman, but the fundraiser ensues as planned. That is, until Ulla turns up dead in the middle of the event.
The cause of death is determined to be an allergic reaction, but Syd and Toby are sniffing out something fishy. When Syd met Ulla, it was clear she was distasteful and rude. And right before the event, Syd spotted some behind-the-scenes drama between Ulla and her manager. As they begin to investigate, they realize there is no shortage of suspects, and Maggie is at the top of the list.
Now Syd and Toby must claw their way to the truth before everything goes paws up at their animal shelter in Death by a Whisker by national bestselling author T. C. LoTempio.
The cause of death is determined to be an allergic reaction, but Syd and Toby are sniffing out something fishy. When Syd met Ulla, it was clear she was distasteful and rude. And right before the event, Syd spotted some behind-the-scenes drama between Ulla and her manager. As they begin to investigate, they realize there is no shortage of suspects, and Maggie is at the top of the list.
Now Syd and Toby must claw their way to the truth before everything goes paws up at their animal shelter in Death by a Whisker by national bestselling author T. C. LoTempio.
320 pages, Hardcover
First published February 13, 2018
27 people are currently reading
1266 people want to read
About the author
T.C. LoTempio
25 books759 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 102 reviews
February 8, 2018
Sydney McCall lives in Deer Park, NC with her adopted rescue cat, Toby. She's helping her sister Kat with preparations for a fund raiser to benefit the animal shelter they run together. Unfortunately their guest of honor, a comedian born in Deer Park, is injured in a car accident. They turn to another famous former resident, Ulla Townsend. Immediately they get mixed reactions from some shelter staff and residents who went to school with Ulla. Apparently, Ulla was difficult and promised to come back someday when she was famous to rub it all in their faces. She does come back.....and she is famous....but before she can exact any revenge for past slights, she is murdered. Ulla was a rude and difficult person so there is no shortage of suspects. But.....who hated Ulla enough to kill her??
Death By a Whisker is the second book in the Cat Rescue Cozy Mystery series. This is the first book by T.C. LoTiempo that I've read. The mystery was a little slow to start at first, but I enjoyed the character and story development. It picked up pace as soon as the victim was offed. There were several suspects and some interesting twists along the way. All in all, a nice, enjoyable cozy mystery! I have LoTiempo's Nick and Nora Mysteries series (the main character and her cat are named after Nick and Nora from The Thin Man movies -- some of my favorite classic movies!) on my TBR shelf.....I will definitely be reading those next!! I like her writing style, and the characters she created for the Cat Rescue series are engaging and likable.
**I voluntarily read an advanced readers copy of this book from Crooked Lane via NetGalley. All opinions expressed are entirely my own.**
Death By a Whisker is the second book in the Cat Rescue Cozy Mystery series. This is the first book by T.C. LoTiempo that I've read. The mystery was a little slow to start at first, but I enjoyed the character and story development. It picked up pace as soon as the victim was offed. There were several suspects and some interesting twists along the way. All in all, a nice, enjoyable cozy mystery! I have LoTiempo's Nick and Nora Mysteries series (the main character and her cat are named after Nick and Nora from The Thin Man movies -- some of my favorite classic movies!) on my TBR shelf.....I will definitely be reading those next!! I like her writing style, and the characters she created for the Cat Rescue series are engaging and likable.
**I voluntarily read an advanced readers copy of this book from Crooked Lane via NetGalley. All opinions expressed are entirely my own.**
February 1, 2018
Syd McCall enjoys being the publicity person for Friendly Paws Animal Shelter, and works closely with her sister, Kat, who is the FPAS director. The town is excited when Ulla Townsend, a former local who’s now a popular shopping channel host, agrees to attend a local fundraiser for the shelter and; hopefully, donate a percentage of her bestselling book sales to the floundering shelter. Ulla loves cats! However, it appears that someone doesn’t like Ulla when she goes into anaphylactic shock and expires.
I don’t want to let the cat out of the bag by giving more details on the murder, but will happily report that several felines find their furrever homes in this light and entertaining cozy mystery. The author provides plenty of suspects for you to dish about their suspicious behaviors and activities, and the finale is a whopper of a reveal!
I voluntarily read and reviewed a digital ARC provided by NetGalley and Crooked Lane Books.
I don’t want to let the cat out of the bag by giving more details on the murder, but will happily report that several felines find their furrever homes in this light and entertaining cozy mystery. The author provides plenty of suspects for you to dish about their suspicious behaviors and activities, and the finale is a whopper of a reveal!
I voluntarily read and reviewed a digital ARC provided by NetGalley and Crooked Lane Books.
January 9, 2018
The second book of the car rescue series is fast and relaxing read. Toby has decided to be an indoor cat as he is happy living with Sydney McCall. They are getting ready for the annual fundraiser for the shelter. The shopping channel best-known personality To Ulla Townsend has agreed to appear and donate a percentage of her book sales to the shelter. Maggie Shayne, the shelter assistant refused to have anything to do with the event. At the event, Ulla becomes ill and dies. The method of death is unusual and it takes Toby to show Sydney the cause. I recommend this book and series.
Disclosure: I received a free copy from Crooked Lane Books through NetGalley for an honest review. I would like to thank them for this opportunity to read and review the book. The opinions expressed are my own.
Disclosure: I received a free copy from Crooked Lane Books through NetGalley for an honest review. I would like to thank them for this opportunity to read and review the book. The opinions expressed are my own.
December 17, 2017
I give this book 4 out of 5 Cozy Kitty Stars! This was a highly enjoyable cozy mystery. I loved how this book was perfect if you are an animal/cat lover. Meow! I have 5 feline friends, 1 canine friend and 2 turtles. So you can definitely say I am an animal enthusiast/crazy cat lady! This book also had some bookish elements that made me oh so happy! The story was well written and was entertaining. The only issue issue I had was that this was second in the series and I have made the mistake of choosing a few books off NetGalley that were part of a series that I haven’t read so the characters were missing a little depth. This is my fault for not paying close enough attention but overall, I highly recommend this book!😄📚
February 24, 2018
Dollycas’s Thoughts
Syd and her sister Kat are gearing up for another fundraiser for their Friendly Paws Animal Shelter. This time Ulla Townsend, shopping channel queen and former resident of Deer Park will be the special guest with a book signing. There will also be cats playing nearby that are all up for adoption.
Not everyone is excited about the guest of honor so when she is found dead in the bathroom in the middle of the event there are quite a few suspects including Maggie Shayne from the shelter. Seems the author/queen of shopping left behind some upset people behind when she left Deer Park and the people she has been working with lately aren’t her biggest fans either. With a bit of help from her lovable tabby Toby, and her friend Leila, Syd purr-sues the truth to get Maggie off the hook and the real killer pawing around in prison.
This was a very entertaining read. Cat lovers, rejoice. The felines in this story are super special and I love the pop-up events Syd and Kat host to get these wonderful animals into their fur-ever homes. I am so glad Syd has stayed in Deer Park to work at the shelter.
Ms. LoTempio creates fantastic characters, both 2-legged and 4-legged. They are immediately engaging and readers quickly become invested in their well being. She also gives us those characters that rub us the wrong way. Ulla is quite a diva, and the people she surrounds herself with have secrets, affairs that are not so secret and other reasons to get rid of the woman. They all make great suspects in her murder.
The story starts out slow to refresh the reader’s memory and introduces the new characters but after the body is found the pace really picks up and the pages quickly turning. I was patting myself on the back for figuring everything out only to have a twist and turn send my theory out with the kitty litter. But that is the joy of a cozy mystery, and the reason I love them.
Toby has found a place deep in my heart. His antics with Melvin the Marvelous Mouse made me laugh out loud, especially when taking the empty threats of his new person, Syd. She loves that cat and spoils him rotten, just as she should. 🙂
Syd and her sister Kat are gearing up for another fundraiser for their Friendly Paws Animal Shelter. This time Ulla Townsend, shopping channel queen and former resident of Deer Park will be the special guest with a book signing. There will also be cats playing nearby that are all up for adoption.
Not everyone is excited about the guest of honor so when she is found dead in the bathroom in the middle of the event there are quite a few suspects including Maggie Shayne from the shelter. Seems the author/queen of shopping left behind some upset people behind when she left Deer Park and the people she has been working with lately aren’t her biggest fans either. With a bit of help from her lovable tabby Toby, and her friend Leila, Syd purr-sues the truth to get Maggie off the hook and the real killer pawing around in prison.
This was a very entertaining read. Cat lovers, rejoice. The felines in this story are super special and I love the pop-up events Syd and Kat host to get these wonderful animals into their fur-ever homes. I am so glad Syd has stayed in Deer Park to work at the shelter.
Ms. LoTempio creates fantastic characters, both 2-legged and 4-legged. They are immediately engaging and readers quickly become invested in their well being. She also gives us those characters that rub us the wrong way. Ulla is quite a diva, and the people she surrounds herself with have secrets, affairs that are not so secret and other reasons to get rid of the woman. They all make great suspects in her murder.
The story starts out slow to refresh the reader’s memory and introduces the new characters but after the body is found the pace really picks up and the pages quickly turning. I was patting myself on the back for figuring everything out only to have a twist and turn send my theory out with the kitty litter. But that is the joy of a cozy mystery, and the reason I love them.
Toby has found a place deep in my heart. His antics with Melvin the Marvelous Mouse made me laugh out loud, especially when taking the empty threats of his new person, Syd. She loves that cat and spoils him rotten, just as she should. 🙂
March 23, 2019
Who knew that being the public relationship director for a cat rescue could be so dangerous. Sydney McCall can't seen to stay away from involving herself in solving murders despite the request of her police officer boyfriend, Will. I am enjoying this series and hope there are more to come. Sydney McCall is feisty, loyal, independent and a likable main character. I enjoy her relationship with both her sister and roommate Leila. In fact, all of the secondary characters add to the charm of this series, including the feline characters. I think Toby is making the perfect feline sleuthing companion to Syd. I like how she has conversations with him and it is almost as if he really understands and responds. The mystery was well done. An unlikable character returns home to do a book signing and make amends but ends of dead. There are plenty of suspect with old grudges. I did figure out the identity of the killer, but not until well into the book. It was fun watching Sydney put the clues together and figure it out.
I really enjoy the series and hope there are future installments.
I really enjoy the series and hope there are future installments.
April 2, 2018
Syd might be helping her sister Kay run a cat rescue shelter, but her real calling seems to be solving murders. When an unpopular author drops dead at a shelter fundraiser, so many people hate her for the dastardly things she has done to them, it’s hard to narrow down the suspects. Clues abound in this cozy, and it’s likely the reader will figure it out long before Syd does. Still, it is an enjoyable cozy, with likable characters, an interesting plot, a bit of romance, and of course, cats aplenty.
February 19, 2018
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February 22, 2018
Author T. C. LoTempio is a fabulous writer. Her Nick and Nora Mysteries won me over and made me a true fan of hers. So, reading her Cat Rescue Mysteries was a no brainer for me.
I really enjoyed DEATH BY A WHISKER though I will admit it was a little slow going at first, maybe the first couple of chapters. But sticking with it was completely worth it!
It was good to be back in Deer Park, North Caroline with the fun characters of this series. And it was wonderful to see the growth in them since the first book. As in the previous book, the relationship between Sydney and Toby made me smile. He’s a cat with his own mind for sure!
The mystery was well done. Very nicely plotted by author LoTempio. There were plenty of suspects to consider in the murder, and they successfully led me to the wrong conclusion.
A purrfectly delightful second installment in this great new cozy series. I’m looking forward to book three!
I really enjoyed DEATH BY A WHISKER though I will admit it was a little slow going at first, maybe the first couple of chapters. But sticking with it was completely worth it!
It was good to be back in Deer Park, North Caroline with the fun characters of this series. And it was wonderful to see the growth in them since the first book. As in the previous book, the relationship between Sydney and Toby made me smile. He’s a cat with his own mind for sure!
The mystery was well done. Very nicely plotted by author LoTempio. There were plenty of suspects to consider in the murder, and they successfully led me to the wrong conclusion.
A purrfectly delightful second installment in this great new cozy series. I’m looking forward to book three!
February 5, 2018
Due to Publisher's request, a review will be posted in February. Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for the chance to read this book!
While I really enjoyed this book, it had a few let downs early on that prevented me from giving it five stars. Firstly, I felt like there was waaaaay too many female characters introduced early on, especially when we all know a cozy mystery is going to have a murder. There were in fact so many that I forgot the main character's name, as well as her sister and her room mate. Add to them the team around Ulla, the volunteers and then the cafe workers and I was lost.
I also felt like it took too long to get into the mystery of Ulla's death, and it could have been shaved down a little. But then when we did finally get there, it was worth it! The cats play a major role in solving the case, which is a cozy aspect I always love.
I felt like the dynamics between characters are just beginning to grow, and I'm not sure if I like the romance or not. It is very stereotypical to have the sleuth going out with the detective after all, but we don't even see enough of Will to form an opinion.
This was a quick fun read that will appeal to mystery lovers. It has a few faults but nothing that cannot be easily overcome. Four stars.
While I really enjoyed this book, it had a few let downs early on that prevented me from giving it five stars. Firstly, I felt like there was waaaaay too many female characters introduced early on, especially when we all know a cozy mystery is going to have a murder. There were in fact so many that I forgot the main character's name, as well as her sister and her room mate. Add to them the team around Ulla, the volunteers and then the cafe workers and I was lost.
I also felt like it took too long to get into the mystery of Ulla's death, and it could have been shaved down a little. But then when we did finally get there, it was worth it! The cats play a major role in solving the case, which is a cozy aspect I always love.
I felt like the dynamics between characters are just beginning to grow, and I'm not sure if I like the romance or not. It is very stereotypical to have the sleuth going out with the detective after all, but we don't even see enough of Will to form an opinion.
This was a quick fun read that will appeal to mystery lovers. It has a few faults but nothing that cannot be easily overcome. Four stars.
February 10, 2019
Solid 4.5 Stars. When Kat and Syd plan a fundraiser for the shelter the last thing they expect is to have their guest of honour get in a serious car accident and not be able to attend, but have no fear, Tara comes to the rescue and books Ulla Townsend the shopping queen to substitute. The onlyl problem is that Ulla has as many enemies as fans. Having grown up in Deer Park, North Carolina, there are many who do not want her to come back. When she ends up dead at the book signing, all signs point to anaphylaxis which also could mean murder. When Maggie, an employee at the shelter looks like she could be a suspect, Syd and her roommate Leila, who is also a reporter with contacts, begin an investigation of their own. Will they find the murderer before Maggie ends up in jail?
This is the second book in this series, but the first that I have read. I am definitely going back to read the first one. I enjoyed this book very much and want to find out the back story to Sydney returning home and working with her sister at the Pet Rescue and Shelter. I really enjoyed the characters of Syd and Leila. They work well as a team, are both very smart, tenacious and not about to back down from a bully (i.e. the new police detective in town). The secondary characters were also very interesting. Learning about their backgrounds, interactions, and back stabbing kept the story even more interesting. I enjoyed meeting others that live in town and are recurring characters in the story. Although not too quirky, it is a nice mix of ages and personalities. Toby, the cat was a wonderful addition to the story. He is adorable and very smart, even to the point that he may have pointed Syd in a specific direction. There are a couple of romance storylines as well, one with Sydney and Will, a police detective, who of course wants her to stay out of the investigation, but knows that she won't. The mystery was a little slow to start at first, but once Ulla was gone, the pace picked up nicely. There were several suspects and some interesting twists along the way. I did figure out who the murderer was part way through the book with a well placed clue, but I still enjoyed the motive, how Syd was going to figure it out and the final showdown. All in all, a nice, enjoyable cozy mystery that I recommend to cozy mystery lovers, especially if you love animals. The publisher generously provided me a copy of this book upon request. The rating, ideas and opinions shared are my own.
This is the second book in this series, but the first that I have read. I am definitely going back to read the first one. I enjoyed this book very much and want to find out the back story to Sydney returning home and working with her sister at the Pet Rescue and Shelter. I really enjoyed the characters of Syd and Leila. They work well as a team, are both very smart, tenacious and not about to back down from a bully (i.e. the new police detective in town). The secondary characters were also very interesting. Learning about their backgrounds, interactions, and back stabbing kept the story even more interesting. I enjoyed meeting others that live in town and are recurring characters in the story. Although not too quirky, it is a nice mix of ages and personalities. Toby, the cat was a wonderful addition to the story. He is adorable and very smart, even to the point that he may have pointed Syd in a specific direction. There are a couple of romance storylines as well, one with Sydney and Will, a police detective, who of course wants her to stay out of the investigation, but knows that she won't. The mystery was a little slow to start at first, but once Ulla was gone, the pace picked up nicely. There were several suspects and some interesting twists along the way. I did figure out who the murderer was part way through the book with a well placed clue, but I still enjoyed the motive, how Syd was going to figure it out and the final showdown. All in all, a nice, enjoyable cozy mystery that I recommend to cozy mystery lovers, especially if you love animals. The publisher generously provided me a copy of this book upon request. The rating, ideas and opinions shared are my own.
February 17, 2018
This was another fun visit to Deer Park and the Friendly Paws Shelter. I enjoyed this one as much and maybe a little bit more than the first one--it was a twisting and intriguing mystery, full of possible suspects. The characters were already well-developed so that always makes it easy to go right and remember who was who.
The shelter was holding another cat adoption in conjunction with a book signing at Tara's bookshop but at the last minute the author couldn't come. Instead, they managed to get Ulla Townsend, a famous shopping channel diva and former resident of Deer Park. The book sales would benefit the shelter since part of them would be donated. Ulla was not a very nice person so it's no surprise when she ended up dead but due to previous bad blood and a video that surfaced, Syd was worried their assistant at the shelter, Maggie, would go down for the crime. Worst of all, Maggie was missing!
Will's new detective partner was just as annoying as the previous one but I was glad something good came out it at the end when everything was wrapped up and the perp was hauled off to jail. I had guessed something was off with one of the characters, then later put it together but I think that was due to the author's series of clues she left the reader. It was really exciting at the end how it went down and of course Syd helped Will solve another murder with a key piece of evidence.
Leila still cracks me up! Who wouldn't love to have a friend like her? She's smart, funny and very faithful to her friends. Syd's sister Kat wasn't featured quite as much, but we did see quite a lot of her in the first book so that was ok. I loved how all the kitties that were at the book signing eventually ended up with furever homes. Syd's kitty Toby once again clued Syd in a few times, almost like they have little conversations with each other. He is so darn cute with his meowy comments, even on her outfits!
I'm really enjoying this series and I can't wait for the next book to come out!
The shelter was holding another cat adoption in conjunction with a book signing at Tara's bookshop but at the last minute the author couldn't come. Instead, they managed to get Ulla Townsend, a famous shopping channel diva and former resident of Deer Park. The book sales would benefit the shelter since part of them would be donated. Ulla was not a very nice person so it's no surprise when she ended up dead but due to previous bad blood and a video that surfaced, Syd was worried their assistant at the shelter, Maggie, would go down for the crime. Worst of all, Maggie was missing!
Will's new detective partner was just as annoying as the previous one but I was glad something good came out it at the end when everything was wrapped up and the perp was hauled off to jail. I had guessed something was off with one of the characters, then later put it together but I think that was due to the author's series of clues she left the reader. It was really exciting at the end how it went down and of course Syd helped Will solve another murder with a key piece of evidence.
Leila still cracks me up! Who wouldn't love to have a friend like her? She's smart, funny and very faithful to her friends. Syd's sister Kat wasn't featured quite as much, but we did see quite a lot of her in the first book so that was ok. I loved how all the kitties that were at the book signing eventually ended up with furever homes. Syd's kitty Toby once again clued Syd in a few times, almost like they have little conversations with each other. He is so darn cute with his meowy comments, even on her outfits!
I'm really enjoying this series and I can't wait for the next book to come out!
January 22, 2018
Death By A Whisker is the 2nd book in the enjoyable cozy mystery series.
The story is well told and the plot kept me guessing.
Life long secrets, bullying, and revenge are just the tip of the iceberg in this story.
Getting revenge always sounds like a good idea, until the revenge ends with murder!
Join Sydney and the gang as they try to unravel the secrets surrounding the murder in their hometown.
I voluntarily read an ARC of this book provided by the publisher and NetGalley.
The story is well told and the plot kept me guessing.
Life long secrets, bullying, and revenge are just the tip of the iceberg in this story.
Getting revenge always sounds like a good idea, until the revenge ends with murder!
Join Sydney and the gang as they try to unravel the secrets surrounding the murder in their hometown.
I voluntarily read an ARC of this book provided by the publisher and NetGalley.
February 12, 2018
Death By A Whisker
Cat Rescue Mystery, Book #2
T. C. LoTempio
5 Stars
Synopsis:
Getting used to life back home in Deer Park, North Carolina, Sydney McCall and her right-hand tabby, Toby, are helping her sister Kat run the local animal shelter. Syd and Kat are all excited about the prospect of the shelter's newest fundraiser: shopping channel queen Ulla Townsend. Shelter admin Maggie Shayne vehemently refuses to have anything to do with the woman, but the fundraiser ensues as planned. That is, until Ulla turns up dead in the middle of the event.
The cause of death is determined to be an allergic reaction, but Syd and Toby are sniffing out something fishy. When Syd met Ulla, it was clear she was distasteful and rude. And right before the event, Syd spotted some behind-the-scenes drama between Ulla and her manager. As they begin to investigate, they realize there is no shortage of suspects, and Maggie is at the top of the list.
Now Syd and Toby must claw their way to the truth before everything goes paws up at their animal shelter in Death by a Whisker by national bestselling author T. C. LoTempio. (Goodreads)
Review:
The characters are well developed and well rounded. Sydney is a likable, hard working woman. She gets along well with her sister, Kat, and all of the other workers at the animal shelter. Her roommate Leila is an investigative reporter and they make a good team when it comes to sleuthing. And that is exactly what they will have to do when another dead body turns up. Toby, her rescue cat, is also very helpful when it comes to solving crimes. All of the characters and secondary characters were engaging and I was happy to be able to visit with them again.
The writing style flows smoothly and the book is an easy read. The author is very talented in her descriptive writing and I felt like I was right there, involved in the story personally. The community that she has created, Deer Park, North Carolina, is a place I would definitely like to visit.
The mystery was well plotted and moved along at a nice pace. There were enough suspects to consider and clues to sift through, and enough twists and turns that it was not an easy mystery to solve.
I would recommend this well crafted cozy mystery to anyone who likes animals with their mysteries. The characters are great, the setting is great, the mystery is great and the book is great. I am already looking forward to the next book in the series.
I received a copy of this book from NetGalley in the hopes of receiving a honest review. I would like to thank NetGalley and Crooked Lane Books for the opportunity to read and review this great book.
Cat Rescue Mystery, Book #2
T. C. LoTempio
5 Stars
Synopsis:
Getting used to life back home in Deer Park, North Carolina, Sydney McCall and her right-hand tabby, Toby, are helping her sister Kat run the local animal shelter. Syd and Kat are all excited about the prospect of the shelter's newest fundraiser: shopping channel queen Ulla Townsend. Shelter admin Maggie Shayne vehemently refuses to have anything to do with the woman, but the fundraiser ensues as planned. That is, until Ulla turns up dead in the middle of the event.
The cause of death is determined to be an allergic reaction, but Syd and Toby are sniffing out something fishy. When Syd met Ulla, it was clear she was distasteful and rude. And right before the event, Syd spotted some behind-the-scenes drama between Ulla and her manager. As they begin to investigate, they realize there is no shortage of suspects, and Maggie is at the top of the list.
Now Syd and Toby must claw their way to the truth before everything goes paws up at their animal shelter in Death by a Whisker by national bestselling author T. C. LoTempio. (Goodreads)
Review:
The characters are well developed and well rounded. Sydney is a likable, hard working woman. She gets along well with her sister, Kat, and all of the other workers at the animal shelter. Her roommate Leila is an investigative reporter and they make a good team when it comes to sleuthing. And that is exactly what they will have to do when another dead body turns up. Toby, her rescue cat, is also very helpful when it comes to solving crimes. All of the characters and secondary characters were engaging and I was happy to be able to visit with them again.
The writing style flows smoothly and the book is an easy read. The author is very talented in her descriptive writing and I felt like I was right there, involved in the story personally. The community that she has created, Deer Park, North Carolina, is a place I would definitely like to visit.
The mystery was well plotted and moved along at a nice pace. There were enough suspects to consider and clues to sift through, and enough twists and turns that it was not an easy mystery to solve.
I would recommend this well crafted cozy mystery to anyone who likes animals with their mysteries. The characters are great, the setting is great, the mystery is great and the book is great. I am already looking forward to the next book in the series.
I received a copy of this book from NetGalley in the hopes of receiving a honest review. I would like to thank NetGalley and Crooked Lane Books for the opportunity to read and review this great book.
March 1, 2018
Cozy's with an animal rescue theme are becoming popular and this one is written pretty well. This is book one in the Cat Rescue series that has two sisters working for the local animal shelter raising money. When a celebrity visitor is killed during their fund raiser the head of the shelter is prime suspect when police discover their high school connection. Lots of adorable animals and the required romantic love interest.
January 24, 2018
Sydney McCall along with her rescued tabby, Toby, are helping her sister Kat run the local animal shelter. It’s a whole new life for her in her hometown of Deer Park, North Carolina. Syd and Kat are excited about the prospect of the shelter’s newest fundraiser: shopping channel queen Ulla Townsend will be signing books and donating a percentage to the shelter. Maggie Shayne, Kat’s right-hand helper vehemently refuses to have anything to do with the woman or the fundraiser. However, everything goes well until Ulla turns up dead in the middle of the event.
They believe that Ulla died from an allergic reaction, but to what? Syd and Toby sniff out something fishy. When Syd met Ulla, it was clear she was distasteful and rude and had enemies. And right before the event, Syd spotted some behind-the-scenes drama between Ulla and her manager. As she begins to investigate, she realizes there is no shortage of suspects, and Maggie is at the top of the list.
--
Series: A Cat Rescue Mystery – Book 2
Author: T. C. LoTempio https://www.tclotempio.net/
Genre: Pet/Cozy Mystery
Publisher: Crooked Lane Books Publishing Date, February 13, 2018, Buy Now!
Death by a Whisker is a delightful pet-based cozy with lots of animals who are literally characters in and of themselves. Along with a few humans who at times remind us why we love animals. This book is pleasurable without being long or overly detailed. It compels the reader to turn the page time after time.
Syd McCall is a warm, caring individual who just happens to love animals and has no life outside of the animal shelter, and her toy killing cat, Toby now that her boyfriend is so busy he doesn’t have time to call. Her sister Kat is much like her but with a little more going on in her life outside of the animals. Syd seems happy with her life, and yet the reader gets the sense that this may not be completely true. Life in a small town isn’t the same as life in New York City, especially not alone.
Maggie and Leila are great characters. Even though they play a smaller role, it will be interesting to see them grow and blossom alongside Syd. Boyfriend, Will is in and out of the story, but he adds a romantic interest that has future possibilities. It doesn’t hurt that he is a cop and sometimes gives Syd info she needs to help solve a case, even after he tells her to stay out of it.
The location used for the story is a small town that on occasion has big city problems. It is a surprise to those who live and work there that murder comes knocking, and not for the first time. However, a bit more detail about the layout of the town and the residents would be a welcome side story that would serve to enhance the reader's enjoyment.
Revealing the killer is no easy task and will keep readers guessing for a long time. The motive becomes clear faster than the identity of the murderer. With a plethora of suspects all with a solid motive, it doesn’t take long for Syd to narrow it down. When she finally figures it out the reader will be surprised and delighted all at the same time.
Overall Death by a Whisker is a fast-paced, enjoyable read that will have the audience yelling for more. It is highly recommended to anyone who loves animals, town gossip and stories that keep them guessing.
They believe that Ulla died from an allergic reaction, but to what? Syd and Toby sniff out something fishy. When Syd met Ulla, it was clear she was distasteful and rude and had enemies. And right before the event, Syd spotted some behind-the-scenes drama between Ulla and her manager. As she begins to investigate, she realizes there is no shortage of suspects, and Maggie is at the top of the list.
--
Series: A Cat Rescue Mystery – Book 2
Author: T. C. LoTempio https://www.tclotempio.net/
Genre: Pet/Cozy Mystery
Publisher: Crooked Lane Books Publishing Date, February 13, 2018, Buy Now!
Death by a Whisker is a delightful pet-based cozy with lots of animals who are literally characters in and of themselves. Along with a few humans who at times remind us why we love animals. This book is pleasurable without being long or overly detailed. It compels the reader to turn the page time after time.
Syd McCall is a warm, caring individual who just happens to love animals and has no life outside of the animal shelter, and her toy killing cat, Toby now that her boyfriend is so busy he doesn’t have time to call. Her sister Kat is much like her but with a little more going on in her life outside of the animals. Syd seems happy with her life, and yet the reader gets the sense that this may not be completely true. Life in a small town isn’t the same as life in New York City, especially not alone.
Maggie and Leila are great characters. Even though they play a smaller role, it will be interesting to see them grow and blossom alongside Syd. Boyfriend, Will is in and out of the story, but he adds a romantic interest that has future possibilities. It doesn’t hurt that he is a cop and sometimes gives Syd info she needs to help solve a case, even after he tells her to stay out of it.
The location used for the story is a small town that on occasion has big city problems. It is a surprise to those who live and work there that murder comes knocking, and not for the first time. However, a bit more detail about the layout of the town and the residents would be a welcome side story that would serve to enhance the reader's enjoyment.
Revealing the killer is no easy task and will keep readers guessing for a long time. The motive becomes clear faster than the identity of the murderer. With a plethora of suspects all with a solid motive, it doesn’t take long for Syd to narrow it down. When she finally figures it out the reader will be surprised and delighted all at the same time.
Overall Death by a Whisker is a fast-paced, enjoyable read that will have the audience yelling for more. It is highly recommended to anyone who loves animals, town gossip and stories that keep them guessing.
March 20, 2018
I received this book from the author in exchange for a fair and honest review.
Set against the background of an animal rescue shelter and a fund-raising event, this book had a well thought out plot with a believable and tantalizing pool of suspects. I really enjoyed it, cover to cover.
Any story that includes lots of lovable animals draws me right in. Add a cool amateur sleuth, an unlikable murder victim, mix with shots of pathos and humor, and the result is a very satisfying read.
The book’s story also brought in several issues that are common in our world and that bear revisiting.
One issue is the plight of animal shelters and their inhabitants. Rescue organizations are always looking for ways to finance their work and to improve the quality of life of their guests. So many have personnel that are almost entirely volunteer. Any funds go to feeding, housing, and seeing to the health needs of the boarders. Adoption fees won’t cover a bit of that. Yes, I’ll be upping the frequency of my donations!
Then there is bullying, what we used to call kids being mean to other kids. Usually the targets are weaker, smaller, younger, or vulnerable in some other way. I realized as I read the book that the victims of bullying are not the only ones who sometimes have emotional or psychological scars in later life from the abuse. The bully in this story never grew out of that behavior. She simply didn’t learn any other way to behave and suffered huge consequences as a result.
Revenge is another theme that is explored. Reasons for revenge, the need for revenge, and what seeking revenge does to the life of the revenge-seeker. This book suggests that the thirst for payback can become an obsession and ultimately become the undoing of the wronged individual.
All in all, I have to say that there was a lot to like about this book. I’m looking forward to more from the same author.
Set against the background of an animal rescue shelter and a fund-raising event, this book had a well thought out plot with a believable and tantalizing pool of suspects. I really enjoyed it, cover to cover.
Any story that includes lots of lovable animals draws me right in. Add a cool amateur sleuth, an unlikable murder victim, mix with shots of pathos and humor, and the result is a very satisfying read.
The book’s story also brought in several issues that are common in our world and that bear revisiting.
One issue is the plight of animal shelters and their inhabitants. Rescue organizations are always looking for ways to finance their work and to improve the quality of life of their guests. So many have personnel that are almost entirely volunteer. Any funds go to feeding, housing, and seeing to the health needs of the boarders. Adoption fees won’t cover a bit of that. Yes, I’ll be upping the frequency of my donations!
Then there is bullying, what we used to call kids being mean to other kids. Usually the targets are weaker, smaller, younger, or vulnerable in some other way. I realized as I read the book that the victims of bullying are not the only ones who sometimes have emotional or psychological scars in later life from the abuse. The bully in this story never grew out of that behavior. She simply didn’t learn any other way to behave and suffered huge consequences as a result.
Revenge is another theme that is explored. Reasons for revenge, the need for revenge, and what seeking revenge does to the life of the revenge-seeker. This book suggests that the thirst for payback can become an obsession and ultimately become the undoing of the wronged individual.
All in all, I have to say that there was a lot to like about this book. I’m looking forward to more from the same author.
April 22, 2018
“Death by a Whisker” earns 4.5/5 Clever Cats…Murderously Fun!
I am a fan of T.C. LoTiempo’s Nick and Nora Mysteries, so I was eager to check out her newest Cat Rescue Mystery series. Even though I am starting with the second book in the series, enough background and character connections were revisited to make it easy to join in with Sydney McCall and her rescue cat Toby (a delightful barrel of fun!). Set in North Carolina, the Friendly Paws Animal Shelter is having a big fundraiser and adoption event, and Sydney, publicity, and her sister Kat, director, are excited to have landed hometown star Ulla Townsend, shopping channel diva, for a guest appearance. However, she's not what they thought she'd be…public disagreements and less-than-positive memories of her by several residents. But dead? They never expected that. And Maggie, the shelter administrator? She's on the hook for the murder. Entertaining fun! The story seemed to have a slower start than I prefer, but T.C.’s descriptive style and delightful dialogue kept me engage to a very rewarding and exciting finale. I enjoyed the dynamic between the sisters with each taking the lead in their amateur investigation trying to weed through a plethora of suspects whose motives and suspicious behaviors make this a very entertaining story. I highly recommend this series, and starting here is great!
"Disclosure: I received an ARC of this book. However, my review is voluntary, and the insights and comments are honest."
I am a fan of T.C. LoTiempo’s Nick and Nora Mysteries, so I was eager to check out her newest Cat Rescue Mystery series. Even though I am starting with the second book in the series, enough background and character connections were revisited to make it easy to join in with Sydney McCall and her rescue cat Toby (a delightful barrel of fun!). Set in North Carolina, the Friendly Paws Animal Shelter is having a big fundraiser and adoption event, and Sydney, publicity, and her sister Kat, director, are excited to have landed hometown star Ulla Townsend, shopping channel diva, for a guest appearance. However, she's not what they thought she'd be…public disagreements and less-than-positive memories of her by several residents. But dead? They never expected that. And Maggie, the shelter administrator? She's on the hook for the murder. Entertaining fun! The story seemed to have a slower start than I prefer, but T.C.’s descriptive style and delightful dialogue kept me engage to a very rewarding and exciting finale. I enjoyed the dynamic between the sisters with each taking the lead in their amateur investigation trying to weed through a plethora of suspects whose motives and suspicious behaviors make this a very entertaining story. I highly recommend this series, and starting here is great!
"Disclosure: I received an ARC of this book. However, my review is voluntary, and the insights and comments are honest."
March 24, 2018
Sydney McCall has returned to Deer Park, North
Carolina. Sydney plus her tabby cat, Toby whose
antics with Melvin the Marvelous Mouse will make
you chuckle, are helping her sister Kat at the
Friendly Paws Animal Shelter.
They are gearing up for a cat adoption and a book
signing at Tara’s bookshop. The Friendly Paws will
receive a percentage of the book sales plus take
applications for some of their fur babies to find their
forever homes.
The book takes off quickly providing the reader with
a myriad of cats described so vividly you can see and
hear them. The story keeps up an invigorating pace
right up to its dramatic conclusion.
The original author has to back out of the signing so
in his place, a former Deer Park resident who is now
a shopping channel star and has written a tell all book
will be there. This person, Ulla Townsend was a cruel
person in high school pulling many pranks that ended
badly on her classmates. In her professional life, Ulla
has not changed. She is not very well liked by her crew.
What a surprise when Ulla has a attack with the end
result of death!!! Seems she had an allergic reaction.
but what caused this reaction??
The characters were all well defined, creative, vivid
and complex involving the reader in the story by the
fluid description used.
There is plenty of mystery, suspense, drama, twists
and turns plus intrigue to keep the reader on their toes.
Snyder gets involved with the investigation even after
she is warned not to interfere by a new arrogant
detective plus she also receives two mysterious notes
to stop investigating.
A well written cat friendly cozy mystery.
I volunteered to read the book. Thanks to the author and
publisher via The Cozy Mystery Review Crew for the book.
My opinion is my own.
Carolina. Sydney plus her tabby cat, Toby whose
antics with Melvin the Marvelous Mouse will make
you chuckle, are helping her sister Kat at the
Friendly Paws Animal Shelter.
They are gearing up for a cat adoption and a book
signing at Tara’s bookshop. The Friendly Paws will
receive a percentage of the book sales plus take
applications for some of their fur babies to find their
forever homes.
The book takes off quickly providing the reader with
a myriad of cats described so vividly you can see and
hear them. The story keeps up an invigorating pace
right up to its dramatic conclusion.
The original author has to back out of the signing so
in his place, a former Deer Park resident who is now
a shopping channel star and has written a tell all book
will be there. This person, Ulla Townsend was a cruel
person in high school pulling many pranks that ended
badly on her classmates. In her professional life, Ulla
has not changed. She is not very well liked by her crew.
What a surprise when Ulla has a attack with the end
result of death!!! Seems she had an allergic reaction.
but what caused this reaction??
The characters were all well defined, creative, vivid
and complex involving the reader in the story by the
fluid description used.
There is plenty of mystery, suspense, drama, twists
and turns plus intrigue to keep the reader on their toes.
Snyder gets involved with the investigation even after
she is warned not to interfere by a new arrogant
detective plus she also receives two mysterious notes
to stop investigating.
A well written cat friendly cozy mystery.
I volunteered to read the book. Thanks to the author and
publisher via The Cozy Mystery Review Crew for the book.
My opinion is my own.
March 14, 2018
I enjoyed reading “Death by a Whisker” by T. C. LoTempio. LoTempio writes an engaging protagonist to whom many could relate. Sydney works in an animal shelter and has a cat Toby at home. As with many plot paths, the protagonist in this book does not necessarily ask for the mystery to land in their lap. However, circumstances make her very determined to stay under the radar but still help determine who it was that committed this murder.
The plot of the story runs fairly smoothly. Without providing any spoilers, the set up for the main event of the plot is made clear right away. The language that is used is vivid enough that I could picture possible pictures in my mind of the animals that are present in the story and the places, especially the place of the crime. Descriptions of the characters were not overly excessive but enough for me to understand who they were and to see their development throughout the plot. With the plot itself, I had absolutely no idea that the “whodunit” and conclusion of the plot would take the direction that it did.
I do believe that this could be a stand-alone book even though it is a second in a series. I will most definitely be putting the first book of the series on my reading list however. This is definitely a cozy mystery need to read.
I received this book from the author for a fair review.
The plot of the story runs fairly smoothly. Without providing any spoilers, the set up for the main event of the plot is made clear right away. The language that is used is vivid enough that I could picture possible pictures in my mind of the animals that are present in the story and the places, especially the place of the crime. Descriptions of the characters were not overly excessive but enough for me to understand who they were and to see their development throughout the plot. With the plot itself, I had absolutely no idea that the “whodunit” and conclusion of the plot would take the direction that it did.
I do believe that this could be a stand-alone book even though it is a second in a series. I will most definitely be putting the first book of the series on my reading list however. This is definitely a cozy mystery need to read.
I received this book from the author for a fair review.
March 17, 2018
Death By A Whisker is the second book in A Cat Rescue mystery series by T.C. LoTempio. The main character is Sydney McCall who lives in Deer Park, North Caroline with her sweet tomcat Toby. She and Kat (her sister) operate Friendly Paws Animal shelter, which is gearing up for a fundraiser featuring a popular shopping channel celebrity Ulla Townsend who is a former local of Deer Park. Of course, there is high level of excitement from the community and surrounding areas once it is announced the successful Ulla is the guest of honor. Unfortunately, Ulla’s past (and present) is not all flowers and rainbows.
This mystery is well written with likeable characters and lovable felines. Many potential perpetrators could have done the deed so it was fun to whittle down the list. I found the book to be a little slow at the beginning (this is the first book I have read so I was learning about the characters) but it quickly became exciting, and it was hard to put it down.
This is a great book for anyone who loves a fun cozy mystery with felines! I am looking forward to reading the next one (and the first book) of this series.
I received a copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion.
This mystery is well written with likeable characters and lovable felines. Many potential perpetrators could have done the deed so it was fun to whittle down the list. I found the book to be a little slow at the beginning (this is the first book I have read so I was learning about the characters) but it quickly became exciting, and it was hard to put it down.
This is a great book for anyone who loves a fun cozy mystery with felines! I am looking forward to reading the next one (and the first book) of this series.
I received a copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion.
March 22, 2018
Death By A Whisker is the second book in A Cat Rescue Mystery series. Sydney McCall has returned home to Deer Park, North Carolina to assist her sister Kat with her animal shelter. This story revolves around a fundraiser in which a TV shopping network star, Ulla Townsend, agrees to appear and donate proceeds from sales of her book to the shelter. Ulla lived in Deer Park when she was younger, but moved away while in high school. When Ulla drops dead at the event, Syd finds herself once again racing to solve the crime. This charming cozy mystery is a fast read, with suspects galore. Ulla Townsend was a mean girl in high school and played some nasty pranks and left several still angry with her, including the shelter administrator Maggie Shayne. Syd is known for her puzzle solving skills and uses them once again to assist her boyfriend, Detective Will Worthington in finding the murderer. Toby, Syd's rescue tomcat, is a fun addition to the cast of characters. I enjoyed this book and look forward to the next installment.
I received a copy of this book in return for a honest review.
I received a copy of this book in return for a honest review.
January 29, 2018
Death By A Whisker by T.C. LoTempio is the 2nd book in A Cat Rescue Mystery series, and another enjoyable book. Sydney McCall is helping her sister Kat with a fundraiser for her animal shelter. Attending will be Ulla Townsend, a celebrity of the home shopping channel, but when she is murdered, Sydney must get to the truth. Once I started this book, I could not stop reading it until I was done. I love Toby the cat!! Not only is this book an exciting mystery but also very refreshing and a quick read. If you love fun cozy mysteries, which are my favorite, you will love this book.
I received this book in exchange for a fair and honest review.
I received this book in exchange for a fair and honest review.
February 16, 2019
I received this book for free from the Great Escapes Book Tours in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review. Revenge is best served shiny.
Death By a Whisker by T.C. LoTempio was a pretty different book in terms of a cozy. We have everything that makes a cozy a cozy in this book, but the murder was weird. It took me for a spin, and I do have to say that I was enthralled and wanted to know who killed her.
Sydney McCall
Our sleuth is Sydney McCall, more commonly known as Syd. She works with her sister, Kat, at a shelter called Friendly Paws. Syd owns an orange cat tabby named Toby, and he is a tomcat that now loves being indoors. She is there at the shelter for publicity and to help out when she’s not solving cases that she shouldn’t be solving. Like this newest one.
What I like about Sydney is that she knows that she shouldn’t be doing any sleuthing or getting involved in a case. However, she wants to help her boyfriend to succeed in the workforce. Another thing that I like about her is that she loves animals and will do anything to help them get a home. What I dislike about her is that she isn’t good at lying on the spot and yet she is getting in situations where she has to lie. Another dislike is that she sometimes does things without thinking about the consequences.
Will Worthington
Will Worthington is Sydney’s old high school crush/boyfriend and one of the detectives on the case. We don’t see much of him or the other detective as much as we do in some of the other cozies. What I like about Will is that he is by the book, but he lets Sydney assist with this one because he knows she will be a great help. Another thing that I like about Will is that he has saved Syd's butt countless times in the book. What I don’t like about him is that he should know not to tell Sydney to stay away from something.
The Crime
The crime in this one was pretty ingenious. The murder victim was a bully back in high school named Ulla Townsend, and she came back to make amends so that she could get to be the spokesperson for a makeup company named Glow. She died at her event with the Friendly Paws Animal Shelter, and she died from an allergic reaction. The fun thing was trying to figure out how this happened, what her allergy was, and who did it. I figured out how it happened before the sleuth and yeah. Can’t tell you what it was or who did it but I do have to say that it was pretty surprising.
Four Stars
Death By a Whisker by T.C. LoTempio is a pretty entertaining cozy mystery series. The sleuth was okay, the love interest wasn’t really in there that much, and the crime was good. I am giving this book a four-star rating as it is good. I recommend this book to those who love cozy mysteries.
Other Books in the Series
Purr M for Murder
Tour Schedule
February 12 – Sneaky the Library Cat's Blog – SPOTLIGHT
February 12 – Carla Loves To Read - REVIEW
February 13 – My Reading Journeys – REVIEW
February 13 – Babs Book Bistro – SPOTLIGHT
February 14 – The Book Diva's Reads – SPOTLIGHT
February 14 – Laura`s Interests – REVIEW*
February 15 – MJB Reviewers – REVIEW*
February 15 – Mallory Heart's Cozies – REVIEW
February 16 – Baroness' Book Trove – REVIEW
February 17 – Celticlady's Reviews – SPOTLIGHT
February 17 – Brooke Blogs – SPOTLIGHT
February 18 – Cozy Up With Kathy – REVIEW*
February 18 – A Holland Reads – SPOTLIGHT
February 19 – I'm All About Books – SPOTLIGHT
February 19 – Mystery Thrillers and Romantic Suspense Reviews – SPOTLIGHT
February 20 – Lisa Ks Book Reviews – REVIEW*
February 21 – View from the Birdhouse – SPOTLIGHT
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Tour Giveaway
Prize: (1) Paperback Copy - Death by a Whisker plus $15 Amazon Gift Card
Tour Organized by:
Death By a Whisker by T.C. LoTempio was a pretty different book in terms of a cozy. We have everything that makes a cozy a cozy in this book, but the murder was weird. It took me for a spin, and I do have to say that I was enthralled and wanted to know who killed her.
Sydney McCall
Our sleuth is Sydney McCall, more commonly known as Syd. She works with her sister, Kat, at a shelter called Friendly Paws. Syd owns an orange cat tabby named Toby, and he is a tomcat that now loves being indoors. She is there at the shelter for publicity and to help out when she’s not solving cases that she shouldn’t be solving. Like this newest one.
What I like about Sydney is that she knows that she shouldn’t be doing any sleuthing or getting involved in a case. However, she wants to help her boyfriend to succeed in the workforce. Another thing that I like about her is that she loves animals and will do anything to help them get a home. What I dislike about her is that she isn’t good at lying on the spot and yet she is getting in situations where she has to lie. Another dislike is that she sometimes does things without thinking about the consequences.
Will Worthington
Will Worthington is Sydney’s old high school crush/boyfriend and one of the detectives on the case. We don’t see much of him or the other detective as much as we do in some of the other cozies. What I like about Will is that he is by the book, but he lets Sydney assist with this one because he knows she will be a great help. Another thing that I like about Will is that he has saved Syd's butt countless times in the book. What I don’t like about him is that he should know not to tell Sydney to stay away from something.
The Crime
The crime in this one was pretty ingenious. The murder victim was a bully back in high school named Ulla Townsend, and she came back to make amends so that she could get to be the spokesperson for a makeup company named Glow. She died at her event with the Friendly Paws Animal Shelter, and she died from an allergic reaction. The fun thing was trying to figure out how this happened, what her allergy was, and who did it. I figured out how it happened before the sleuth and yeah. Can’t tell you what it was or who did it but I do have to say that it was pretty surprising.
Four Stars Death By a Whisker by T.C. LoTempio is a pretty entertaining cozy mystery series. The sleuth was okay, the love interest wasn’t really in there that much, and the crime was good. I am giving this book a four-star rating as it is good. I recommend this book to those who love cozy mysteries.
Other Books in the Series
Purr M for Murder By T.C. LoTempio
Series: A Cat Rescue Mystery#1
Published by Crooked Lane Books on March 14th, 2017
Genres: Mystery, Cozy, Women Sleuths
Pages: 295
Format: Hardcover, ebook & Paperback
Buy on Amazon
Sydney McCall left behind an ex-fiance; and a New York advertising job to return home to Deer Park, North Carolina and help her sister, Kat, run the local animal shelter, Friendly Paws. Determined to save the shelter from financial trouble, Sydney and Kat organize a cat cafe; fundraising event at a local coffee shop. Things are looking up until their landlord, Trowbridge Littleton, threatens to shut down the event. When Sydney drops by his art gallery to make peace, she finds Kat--along with Littleton’s dead body.
Local homicide detective Will Worthington--who just happens to be Sydney’s old high school crush--is highly suspicious of the sisters’ involvement. Desperate to clear their names from the suspect list, Sydney pounces on the investigation. With the help of one of the shelter cats, a savvy orange tabby named Toby, Sydney begins poking her nose into other local businesses whose owners may have benefited from Littleton’s death--until the killer notices she’s pawing a little too closely at the truth.
Delightfully clever and charming, Purr M for Murder, the first in a new series from nationally bestselling author T. C. LoTempio, will leave readers clawing for more.
Tour Schedule
February 12 – Sneaky the Library Cat's Blog – SPOTLIGHT
February 12 – Carla Loves To Read - REVIEW
February 13 – My Reading Journeys – REVIEW
February 13 – Babs Book Bistro – SPOTLIGHT
February 14 – The Book Diva's Reads – SPOTLIGHT
February 14 – Laura`s Interests – REVIEW*
February 15 – MJB Reviewers – REVIEW*
February 15 – Mallory Heart's Cozies – REVIEW
February 16 – Baroness' Book Trove – REVIEW
February 17 – Celticlady's Reviews – SPOTLIGHT
February 17 – Brooke Blogs – SPOTLIGHT
February 18 – Cozy Up With Kathy – REVIEW*
February 18 – A Holland Reads – SPOTLIGHT
February 19 – I'm All About Books – SPOTLIGHT
February 19 – Mystery Thrillers and Romantic Suspense Reviews – SPOTLIGHT
February 20 – Lisa Ks Book Reviews – REVIEW*
February 21 – View from the Birdhouse – SPOTLIGHT
Have you signed up to be a Tour Host? Click Here Find Details and Sign Up Today!
Tour Giveaway
Prize: (1) Paperback Copy - Death by a Whisker plus $15 Amazon Gift Card
Tour Organized by:
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Thank you for dropping by! I hope you enjoyed this review of Death by Whisker by T.C. LoTempio. Don't forget to enter the giveaway, and it's got lots of great stuff.
Until the next time,
Happy Reading!
This review was originally posted on Baroness' Book Trove
March 5, 2018
I enjoyed this book. This is the first I have read in the series. It is well-written thought out and has humor. The author provides a sea of suspects all with a solid motive. It’s fun trying to weed through them to see who actually killed Ulla Townsend, local girl who isn’t the nicest person.
I like that the sleuth, Syd, listens and connects the dots, doesn’t try to take over the case from the police, and isn’t placing herself in harm’s way. The cats are cats with attitude and smarts and do not have some super power.
This book is great as a stand-alone but I will reread it after I read the initial book in the series to get to know the characters better.
A plus for this book is Toby is reminiscent of my cat who adopted us and quickly became an indoor cat. I liked the fact that the book acknowledges that pets have personalities all their own.
Thank you to Crooked Lane Books for a copy of this novel. I always enjoy holding a book while I read it.
I like that the sleuth, Syd, listens and connects the dots, doesn’t try to take over the case from the police, and isn’t placing herself in harm’s way. The cats are cats with attitude and smarts and do not have some super power.
This book is great as a stand-alone but I will reread it after I read the initial book in the series to get to know the characters better.
A plus for this book is Toby is reminiscent of my cat who adopted us and quickly became an indoor cat. I liked the fact that the book acknowledges that pets have personalities all their own.
Thank you to Crooked Lane Books for a copy of this novel. I always enjoy holding a book while I read it.
February 13, 2018
This delightful cozy is second in A Cat Rescue Mystery series, and it is even better than the first! Syd, Kat, and the ladies of the Friendly Paws Animal Shelter are putting together a pop-up cat cafe at Crowden’s Bookstore. To sweeten the event, a book signing is planned; the cat café and book signing will complement each other. I love the characters, including Syd’s cat, Toby (fka The Wanderer until he adopted Syd). The mystery is intriguing, humorous, and fast-paced.
Ulla Townsend came from the less-affluent part of town, but has been a host on the Shopping Your Way show for the past fifteen years. Her autobiography has people lined up several hours before the event. The shopping network decided to film Ulla’s event, so the bookstore is crowded even before the doors open.
Syd and her sister Kat, the manager of the shelter, have brought the cats they hope to adopt out in the event. Maggie, Kat’s right hand, usually willing to do whatever she can, refuses to help. Maggie knew Ulla in high school, and whatever happened between them, Maggie won’t reveal. Ulla is the queen of snark and is generally rude and nasty to everyone, and her book is full of the dirt she could reveal about co-workers and people she had known back in her high school days.
One positive thing about Ulla is that she adores cats, and there is one that she is particularly attracted to. She is even filmed playing with her favorite. After a break from signing books, Ulla seems not quite well, and collapses. As EMT’s take her away, fans are snapping photos and uploading videos faster than you can say “adopt a cat”. At the end of the day, Ulla is dead, all cats have adoption applications in for except one, and Maggie has been seen in a video outside the bookstore – just before she left town and stopped answering her cell phone. Because of her strong dislike for Ulla, she is now a person of interest.
Syd and Kat are my favorite ladies in this mystery. I envy their work at the shelter! That would be a dream job in many ways, especially as their fur babies are held until adopted. It may be frustrating, but ultimately rewarding, work! Especially among the people in Deer Park, most of whom are supportive of the cause. Ulla is so well defined that I can almost hear her, syrupy sweet in front of readers, and a bully around the rest. All the primary characters are well defined, as well as those who are suspects.
First, I love this series! And second, where can I find some Toby’s favorite Melvin the Marvelous Mouse toys? There is no shortage of suspects in this novel, including those girls and guys who she tormented in school. Literally. The plot twists are well-placed and perfect, changing the mystery over and over. There were a couple people who I liked for the culprits, who should have spent a bit of time behind bars for general principle. I learned some new things, including … I can’t say what! While I had an idea about a part of the crime, I just couldn’t come up with the right person. Which is great, as the real killer had barely registered on my radar and been quickly eliminated. This is an A+ story that I highly recommend! Cat lovers, cozy mystery lovers, and even those who love bookstores will enjoy this. It can be read as a standalone or as part of the series, but either way, don’t miss it!
From a grateful heart: I received a copy of this from the publisher and NetGalley, and here is my honest review.
Ulla Townsend came from the less-affluent part of town, but has been a host on the Shopping Your Way show for the past fifteen years. Her autobiography has people lined up several hours before the event. The shopping network decided to film Ulla’s event, so the bookstore is crowded even before the doors open.
Syd and her sister Kat, the manager of the shelter, have brought the cats they hope to adopt out in the event. Maggie, Kat’s right hand, usually willing to do whatever she can, refuses to help. Maggie knew Ulla in high school, and whatever happened between them, Maggie won’t reveal. Ulla is the queen of snark and is generally rude and nasty to everyone, and her book is full of the dirt she could reveal about co-workers and people she had known back in her high school days.
One positive thing about Ulla is that she adores cats, and there is one that she is particularly attracted to. She is even filmed playing with her favorite. After a break from signing books, Ulla seems not quite well, and collapses. As EMT’s take her away, fans are snapping photos and uploading videos faster than you can say “adopt a cat”. At the end of the day, Ulla is dead, all cats have adoption applications in for except one, and Maggie has been seen in a video outside the bookstore – just before she left town and stopped answering her cell phone. Because of her strong dislike for Ulla, she is now a person of interest.
Syd and Kat are my favorite ladies in this mystery. I envy their work at the shelter! That would be a dream job in many ways, especially as their fur babies are held until adopted. It may be frustrating, but ultimately rewarding, work! Especially among the people in Deer Park, most of whom are supportive of the cause. Ulla is so well defined that I can almost hear her, syrupy sweet in front of readers, and a bully around the rest. All the primary characters are well defined, as well as those who are suspects.
First, I love this series! And second, where can I find some Toby’s favorite Melvin the Marvelous Mouse toys? There is no shortage of suspects in this novel, including those girls and guys who she tormented in school. Literally. The plot twists are well-placed and perfect, changing the mystery over and over. There were a couple people who I liked for the culprits, who should have spent a bit of time behind bars for general principle. I learned some new things, including … I can’t say what! While I had an idea about a part of the crime, I just couldn’t come up with the right person. Which is great, as the real killer had barely registered on my radar and been quickly eliminated. This is an A+ story that I highly recommend! Cat lovers, cozy mystery lovers, and even those who love bookstores will enjoy this. It can be read as a standalone or as part of the series, but either way, don’t miss it!
From a grateful heart: I received a copy of this from the publisher and NetGalley, and here is my honest review.
March 22, 2018
Sydney McCall and her sister Kat are helping to prepare their local animal shelter for their newest fundraiser. They are hoping to help some fuzzy friends find "furever" homes and raise some money for the shelter to pay for some things that they need. When they learn that their headliner has to pull out they are briefly concerned, until they learn that an old town native will be replacing him, Ulla Townsend. What they don't know is the trouble and drama that Ulla will be bringing with her, both known and unknown. When shelter administrator, Maggie Shayne, refuses to even show up, the girls are concerned. What could have Maggie so against even being around to help them out with something so important? They all soon learn that Ulla was less than a nice person in her younger years and that in a bid for financial opportunity, she's trying to show herself to be bettering herself as a person. Things get a little furry when Ulla ends up having an episode that leaves her dead. Now the hunt is on to figure out who had enough motive and desire to see her dead. The list of suspects won't be a short one, but it will include someone who is close to home.
Death by a Whisker: A Cat Rescue Mystery by T.C. LoTempio is the first book that I have read by this author. I absolutely loved this book. It was fun, well-paced, and had lots of cats. I am an avid cat fan, and I loved all the precious kitties mentioned in this story. Sydney comes off as such a good character. She sounds like someone you would want to be good friends with. She's a good friend, and with the help of her precious Toby, she's able to get to the bottom of this cozy who-done-it. When the signs point to her friend Maggie as a possible suspect, Sydney is determined to find out the truth. Maggie doesn't make things easy with the steps that she takes, but it only makes Syd all the more determined. Of course, things aren't straightforward with a top position open at the local police station either. Syd's boyfriend has some competition for the job when a new guy is brought in. All the dynamics of this story come together so well to keep you engaged throughout the story. I like how the characters use some less than orthodox means to piece all of the pieces together to finally see the big picture.
There honestly isn't much that I don't like about this book. There are a few minor spelling errors, but there isn't much I don't like. I will say I got a touch annoyed with Sydney when she wants to go into the evidence locker with Will, but he tells her no. I didn't see the point in her wanting to pout about it. She's already trying to steer clear of Callahan and she can't exactly do that if she had gone and signed her name to go back with Will. Will would have been in trouble and she'd have been in jail. It just seemed like she chose to lose her common sense at that point. I have to say I despised Callahan. He was so arrogant it drove me nuts! Haha! But we need someone to dislike, so it works until the killer is revealed.
Overall, I am rating this book 5 out of 5 stars. I love how clever and well done this book is written. It genuinely kept me trying to figure out who the killer was. The author does a fantastic job redirecting some of the suspicions and keeping you guessing. The cats are absolutely precious, and I just wish that I could have adopted one myself. If you like a good cozy mystery, and like one with cats and fun, this book is for you.
Death by a Whisker: A Cat Rescue Mystery by T.C. LoTempio is the first book that I have read by this author. I absolutely loved this book. It was fun, well-paced, and had lots of cats. I am an avid cat fan, and I loved all the precious kitties mentioned in this story. Sydney comes off as such a good character. She sounds like someone you would want to be good friends with. She's a good friend, and with the help of her precious Toby, she's able to get to the bottom of this cozy who-done-it. When the signs point to her friend Maggie as a possible suspect, Sydney is determined to find out the truth. Maggie doesn't make things easy with the steps that she takes, but it only makes Syd all the more determined. Of course, things aren't straightforward with a top position open at the local police station either. Syd's boyfriend has some competition for the job when a new guy is brought in. All the dynamics of this story come together so well to keep you engaged throughout the story. I like how the characters use some less than orthodox means to piece all of the pieces together to finally see the big picture.
There honestly isn't much that I don't like about this book. There are a few minor spelling errors, but there isn't much I don't like. I will say I got a touch annoyed with Sydney when she wants to go into the evidence locker with Will, but he tells her no. I didn't see the point in her wanting to pout about it. She's already trying to steer clear of Callahan and she can't exactly do that if she had gone and signed her name to go back with Will. Will would have been in trouble and she'd have been in jail. It just seemed like she chose to lose her common sense at that point. I have to say I despised Callahan. He was so arrogant it drove me nuts! Haha! But we need someone to dislike, so it works until the killer is revealed.
Overall, I am rating this book 5 out of 5 stars. I love how clever and well done this book is written. It genuinely kept me trying to figure out who the killer was. The author does a fantastic job redirecting some of the suspicions and keeping you guessing. The cats are absolutely precious, and I just wish that I could have adopted one myself. If you like a good cozy mystery, and like one with cats and fun, this book is for you.
January 24, 2018
Death By A Whisker is the second book for T. C. LoTempio’s Cat Rescue Mystery series. This book is well written and the characters are well developed. This fun and fast paced book has an interesting mystery, great characters, and lots of twists and turns. I noticed a few discrepancies in the book, but since the copy I reviewed is an advanced reader copy, I’m sure they will be corrected before publication. I was kept guessing until the final reveal. I’m looking forward to reading the next installment in this series.
Sydney (Syd) McCall recently quit her job in New York and returned to her hometown of Deer Park, North Carolina. She’s working with her sister, Katherine (Kat) as the publicity director for Friendly Paws, her sister’s animal shelter and has adopted a tabby tomcat named Toby. Syd organized a book signing and adopt-a-cat fundraising event for Friendly Paws Animal Rescue. When the scheduled author, Dudley Simmons, is injured in an automobile accident, Tara Pitsenberger, the manager of Crowden’s Bookstore, steps in and is able to recruit a Deer Park native, Ulla Townsend, an author and television shopping channel celebrity, to take Dudley’s place. Ulla was a bully in high school and her pranks, some of which were malicious, left bad memories for many of the locals, including the shelter’s administrator, Maggie Shayne. When Maggie learns Ulla will be at the fundraiser, she refuses to attend the event. Ulla becomes ill during the signing and is rushed to the hospital, where she dies from an allergic reaction. The death is ruled as suspicious and Maggie becomes a suspect. Syd knows she should leave the investigating to the professionals, but she has a knack for discovering facts and wants to help her boyfriend, Homicide Detective Will Worthington, solve the case and prove her friend is innocent. Newspaper reporter, Leila Addams, who is Syd’s roommate and best friend, and even Toby help her. Since the victim wasn’t well liked and had a tendency to be overbearing, condescending, and belittling, Syd uncovers a long list of suspects. Despite receiving written warnings to quit snooping, she is determined to find the truth and places herself in harm’s way.
I received an Advance Reader Copy of this book from NetGalley and voluntarily reviewed it.
Sydney (Syd) McCall recently quit her job in New York and returned to her hometown of Deer Park, North Carolina. She’s working with her sister, Katherine (Kat) as the publicity director for Friendly Paws, her sister’s animal shelter and has adopted a tabby tomcat named Toby. Syd organized a book signing and adopt-a-cat fundraising event for Friendly Paws Animal Rescue. When the scheduled author, Dudley Simmons, is injured in an automobile accident, Tara Pitsenberger, the manager of Crowden’s Bookstore, steps in and is able to recruit a Deer Park native, Ulla Townsend, an author and television shopping channel celebrity, to take Dudley’s place. Ulla was a bully in high school and her pranks, some of which were malicious, left bad memories for many of the locals, including the shelter’s administrator, Maggie Shayne. When Maggie learns Ulla will be at the fundraiser, she refuses to attend the event. Ulla becomes ill during the signing and is rushed to the hospital, where she dies from an allergic reaction. The death is ruled as suspicious and Maggie becomes a suspect. Syd knows she should leave the investigating to the professionals, but she has a knack for discovering facts and wants to help her boyfriend, Homicide Detective Will Worthington, solve the case and prove her friend is innocent. Newspaper reporter, Leila Addams, who is Syd’s roommate and best friend, and even Toby help her. Since the victim wasn’t well liked and had a tendency to be overbearing, condescending, and belittling, Syd uncovers a long list of suspects. Despite receiving written warnings to quit snooping, she is determined to find the truth and places herself in harm’s way.
I received an Advance Reader Copy of this book from NetGalley and voluntarily reviewed it.
February 24, 2018
Syd McCall is very passionate about animals. With her work at the shelter she keeps herself busy but not busy enough to keep herself out of trouble. It’s a big day in her small town when none other than Ulla Townsend is coming to town to promote her book and give a part of the proceeds to the shelter. I wouldn’t say everyone was thrilled to find out that Ulla was coming back to town. She did become this famous television personality but can it erase all the horrible things she did to some of her classmates in school? I can’t believe how vicious she was. Ulla is what I call a first class bully.
Syd is really a smart person who has a bit of a problem. She doesn’t seem able to keep her nose out of trouble. The author sets readers up for the crime in a setting that is sure to cause a stir among the community. Ulla is all set to sign her new book as a big crowd starts to grow. I was not surprised that Ulla was going to be the victim and I figured out how she was killed. What I couldn’t figure out was who did The dastardly deed. With a room full of suspects and a list a mile long of people she had tortured in the past, I found it hard to narrow it down to just one suspect. I’m not saying she deserved to die, but let’s just say sometimes your past can come back and cause you harm. I wanted to feel sorry for Ulla, but she was just a conceited and mean person.
I thought the story was well written and I loved that the author showcased pet adoptions. The author really made me want to adopt a cat after reading about all the love able ones up for adoption. I as kinda upset that Syd kept going behind her boyfriends back to investigate the crime. After all, Will is a detective and I’m pretty sure he is good at his job. What makes the story so appealing is their relationship. He seems sensible, smart and patient. Syd is none of those things which makes them the perfect couple. It’s a great read and one that I enjoyed with all the shenanigans Syd got involved in. Overall a good book and one I would recommend to all those who like a fast pace mystery.
I received a copy of this book from The Great Escapes Virtual Book Tour. The review is my own opinion.
Syd is really a smart person who has a bit of a problem. She doesn’t seem able to keep her nose out of trouble. The author sets readers up for the crime in a setting that is sure to cause a stir among the community. Ulla is all set to sign her new book as a big crowd starts to grow. I was not surprised that Ulla was going to be the victim and I figured out how she was killed. What I couldn’t figure out was who did The dastardly deed. With a room full of suspects and a list a mile long of people she had tortured in the past, I found it hard to narrow it down to just one suspect. I’m not saying she deserved to die, but let’s just say sometimes your past can come back and cause you harm. I wanted to feel sorry for Ulla, but she was just a conceited and mean person.
I thought the story was well written and I loved that the author showcased pet adoptions. The author really made me want to adopt a cat after reading about all the love able ones up for adoption. I as kinda upset that Syd kept going behind her boyfriends back to investigate the crime. After all, Will is a detective and I’m pretty sure he is good at his job. What makes the story so appealing is their relationship. He seems sensible, smart and patient. Syd is none of those things which makes them the perfect couple. It’s a great read and one that I enjoyed with all the shenanigans Syd got involved in. Overall a good book and one I would recommend to all those who like a fast pace mystery.
I received a copy of this book from The Great Escapes Virtual Book Tour. The review is my own opinion.
March 23, 2018
Death By a Whisker is the second book in the Cat Rescue series. I actually have not read the first book in the series but I felt like I was able to join the series and not miss too much of the plot or getting to know the cast of characters. Sydney McCall is likeable enough and I really enjoy her friendship with her best friend and roommate, Leila and of course, I’m a big fan of her cat Toby. Call me bias, but I’m a sucker for anything with a cat on the cover or in the series.
T.C. LoTempio crafted a good mystery that had me guessing up until the murderer was revealed. In short, the plot revolves around the murder of Ulla Townsend, who actually grew up in Deer Park, where our story is set. Ulla is now a successful TV host and she is the guest author at a book signing/cat adoption event. After it is confirmed that Ulla is murdered, a slew of motives and suspects are introduced. I will admit that it was very obvious on how Ulla died and what caused it, but LoTempio wove such an intricate story that trying to figure out the bad guy kept one guessing.
Besides the murder plot, we get introduced to a potential love interested for Sydney, even though she has a boyfriend, Will, her high school sweetheart, who also is a detective. Throughout the book when Sydney and Will interact, their interaction is very tame. We learn that they haven’t even kissed yet since their reunion in the first book. We meet a new guy named Doug, whom may stick around in the series. I honestly loved Doug and Sydney’s interaction. I just felt there was some fun chemistry between them. I think Sydney was rather intrigued by him.
Overall, this was a very enjoyable read. The book was fun and fast-paced. The cats we got introduced to were all adorable and it was good to see that most of the cats went to forever homes. I do look forward to reading the first book in the series and awaiting the next book.
T.C. LoTempio crafted a good mystery that had me guessing up until the murderer was revealed. In short, the plot revolves around the murder of Ulla Townsend, who actually grew up in Deer Park, where our story is set. Ulla is now a successful TV host and she is the guest author at a book signing/cat adoption event. After it is confirmed that Ulla is murdered, a slew of motives and suspects are introduced. I will admit that it was very obvious on how Ulla died and what caused it, but LoTempio wove such an intricate story that trying to figure out the bad guy kept one guessing.
Besides the murder plot, we get introduced to a potential love interested for Sydney, even though she has a boyfriend, Will, her high school sweetheart, who also is a detective. Throughout the book when Sydney and Will interact, their interaction is very tame. We learn that they haven’t even kissed yet since their reunion in the first book. We meet a new guy named Doug, whom may stick around in the series. I honestly loved Doug and Sydney’s interaction. I just felt there was some fun chemistry between them. I think Sydney was rather intrigued by him.
Overall, this was a very enjoyable read. The book was fun and fast-paced. The cats we got introduced to were all adorable and it was good to see that most of the cats went to forever homes. I do look forward to reading the first book in the series and awaiting the next book.
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