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Cat Lady Mysteries #4
Claws of Action
Purr-suing a killer…
The only thing that could make the High Cliff Shelter for Cats even cozier is a reading room where kids can snuggle up with a furry feline and a book. But as Lara and Aunt Fran prepare for the reading nook’s official opening, the health inspector in their New Hampshire town, Evonda Fray, decrees that the shelter qualifies as a “cat café,” thanks to the free snacks it serves to visitors—and that it must be shut down.
When Evonda’s body is found in her car clutching a copy of the cease-and-desist order, suspicion naturally falls on Lara and Aunt Fran. But there’s a whole litter of potential culprits, including a tenant in one of Evonda’s buildings who’d been ordered to give up his rescue cat, a disgruntled daughter-in-law, and more. Now Lara—with some help from her aunt and her spirit cat, Blue—has to pin the tail on the right suspect …
The only thing that could make the High Cliff Shelter for Cats even cozier is a reading room where kids can snuggle up with a furry feline and a book. But as Lara and Aunt Fran prepare for the reading nook’s official opening, the health inspector in their New Hampshire town, Evonda Fray, decrees that the shelter qualifies as a “cat café,” thanks to the free snacks it serves to visitors—and that it must be shut down.
When Evonda’s body is found in her car clutching a copy of the cease-and-desist order, suspicion naturally falls on Lara and Aunt Fran. But there’s a whole litter of potential culprits, including a tenant in one of Evonda’s buildings who’d been ordered to give up his rescue cat, a disgruntled daughter-in-law, and more. Now Lara—with some help from her aunt and her spirit cat, Blue—has to pin the tail on the right suspect …
214 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 13, 2019
93 people are currently reading
838 people want to read
About the author
Linda Reilly
14 books793 followersLinda Reilly is a mystery writer living with her two feline assistants in southern New Hampshire. She is a member of Sisters in Crime, Mystery Writers of America, and Cat Writers' Association.
Her Grilled Cheese Mystery series featuring grilled cheese lover Carly Hale debuted in January 2022, published by Poisoned Pen Press.
Her first cozy mystery, Some Enchanted Murder, was a finalist for the 2014 Silver Falchion Award in the category "Best First Novel: Cozy, Traditional and Historical."
Linda is also the author of the Cat Lady Mysteries published by Kensington Lyrical and of the Deep Fried mysteries published by Berkley Prime Crime.
ESCAPE CLAWS, her first Cat Lady Mystery, was selected by Modern Cat Magazine, Connie's Book Club, as a "must read" in the Spring/Summer 2018 issue.
CLAWS OF ACTION, her fourth Cat Lady Mystery, was awarded a Certificate of Excellence by the Cat Writers' Association in its 2019 Communications Contest.
Her Grilled Cheese Mystery series featuring grilled cheese lover Carly Hale debuted in January 2022, published by Poisoned Pen Press.
Her first cozy mystery, Some Enchanted Murder, was a finalist for the 2014 Silver Falchion Award in the category "Best First Novel: Cozy, Traditional and Historical."
Linda is also the author of the Cat Lady Mysteries published by Kensington Lyrical and of the Deep Fried mysteries published by Berkley Prime Crime.
ESCAPE CLAWS, her first Cat Lady Mystery, was selected by Modern Cat Magazine, Connie's Book Club, as a "must read" in the Spring/Summer 2018 issue.
CLAWS OF ACTION, her fourth Cat Lady Mystery, was awarded a Certificate of Excellence by the Cat Writers' Association in its 2019 Communications Contest.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 69 reviews
August 29, 2019
This series quickly became one of my favorite cat cozy series with the first novel and has only improved from there. The characters are well-rounded and very likable, the setting in Aunt Fran’s Folk Victorian, and the beautifully planned and executed mystery a challenge to solve.
Lara and Aunt Fran established a cat shelter in this lovely Victorian home. The cats have access to the living areas, whether the cats they are keeping or the ones who will be up for adoption. Lara also has the occasional visits of Blue, a mysterious, gorgeous Ragdoll cat that only she can see. Blue has been a wonderful help when solving earlier mysteries, and has a great place in helping with this mystery.
A reading room has just been finished for their new program of Read to the Cats, where children come to the High Cliff Shelter for Cats to read to them. The shelter's official grand opening is scheduled, as is the first official Read to the Cats day is only days away when Evonda Fray, the new health inspector, arrives to shut it down. She claims that it qualifies as a cat cafe, and since it doesn't have the license to serve foods or beverages, she will bring an official cease and desist order the next day. Gideon, the man Lara is dating and their attorney, listens to Lara and Fran and outlines an action plan should Hurricane Evonda follow through.
Brian, not knowing whether they take cats for boarding, brought his beloved senior cat, Smuggles to the shelter. It is no coincidence that he chooses their shelter; he heard the new owner of his apartment building, Evonda Fray, on the phone telling someone that she was going there and what she planned to do. Evonda, seemingly a cat-hater, told Brian that his cat - who was approved on his lease - could no longer be there and if he didn't get rid of his furry friend, she would. He begged Fran and Lara to keep Smuggles there until he moves into another place. They agree, and it is only a matter of time before they wonder if they did the right thing. Smuggles is no trouble at all, and is adorable.
The next day, Evonda is found dead before she could get the shelter's order made official. Murdered. Due to the confrontation at the shelter the day before, Fran and Lara are called in for questioning. Brian is, also. There is a part of the story he didn't tell them the day before, and he is concerned that he will be arrested. If he is, the ladies agree that Smuggles can stay with them as long as necessary. There is only one other potential suspect. As more clues are revealed, more suspicion is cast on Lara. Needless to say, the grand opening and first Read to the Cats day are postponed.
I love how the author shows us the characters through their conversations, actions, and in some cases, appearances, such as the women wearing the feathered hats. The plot is intriguing, and the twists and turns resemble a mountain road as clues are discovered. What surprised me is that I figured out who the killer was, and part of the why, before anyone else did. It didn't take the fun out of the novel, however, as I didn't know the complete reason, and at least one of the suspects still looks really good. I was satisfied with the resolution, and am already looking forward to the next in series! I highly recommend Claws of Action and the other books in the series to those who love cats and cat shelters, well-written cozy mysteries with humor and suspense, and an eclectic cast of characters.
From a thankful heart: I received an early copy of this novel and was under no obligation to review it.
Lara and Aunt Fran established a cat shelter in this lovely Victorian home. The cats have access to the living areas, whether the cats they are keeping or the ones who will be up for adoption. Lara also has the occasional visits of Blue, a mysterious, gorgeous Ragdoll cat that only she can see. Blue has been a wonderful help when solving earlier mysteries, and has a great place in helping with this mystery.
A reading room has just been finished for their new program of Read to the Cats, where children come to the High Cliff Shelter for Cats to read to them. The shelter's official grand opening is scheduled, as is the first official Read to the Cats day is only days away when Evonda Fray, the new health inspector, arrives to shut it down. She claims that it qualifies as a cat cafe, and since it doesn't have the license to serve foods or beverages, she will bring an official cease and desist order the next day. Gideon, the man Lara is dating and their attorney, listens to Lara and Fran and outlines an action plan should Hurricane Evonda follow through.
Brian, not knowing whether they take cats for boarding, brought his beloved senior cat, Smuggles to the shelter. It is no coincidence that he chooses their shelter; he heard the new owner of his apartment building, Evonda Fray, on the phone telling someone that she was going there and what she planned to do. Evonda, seemingly a cat-hater, told Brian that his cat - who was approved on his lease - could no longer be there and if he didn't get rid of his furry friend, she would. He begged Fran and Lara to keep Smuggles there until he moves into another place. They agree, and it is only a matter of time before they wonder if they did the right thing. Smuggles is no trouble at all, and is adorable.
The next day, Evonda is found dead before she could get the shelter's order made official. Murdered. Due to the confrontation at the shelter the day before, Fran and Lara are called in for questioning. Brian is, also. There is a part of the story he didn't tell them the day before, and he is concerned that he will be arrested. If he is, the ladies agree that Smuggles can stay with them as long as necessary. There is only one other potential suspect. As more clues are revealed, more suspicion is cast on Lara. Needless to say, the grand opening and first Read to the Cats day are postponed.
I love how the author shows us the characters through their conversations, actions, and in some cases, appearances, such as the women wearing the feathered hats. The plot is intriguing, and the twists and turns resemble a mountain road as clues are discovered. What surprised me is that I figured out who the killer was, and part of the why, before anyone else did. It didn't take the fun out of the novel, however, as I didn't know the complete reason, and at least one of the suspects still looks really good. I was satisfied with the resolution, and am already looking forward to the next in series! I highly recommend Claws of Action and the other books in the series to those who love cats and cat shelters, well-written cozy mysteries with humor and suspense, and an eclectic cast of characters.
From a thankful heart: I received an early copy of this novel and was under no obligation to review it.
July 10, 2019
High Cliff Cat Shelter is preparing to show their new reading room and an open house for the rest of the shelter in the fourth book. The health inspector makes an unplanned visit and informs Lara and Aunt Fran that she is shutting the shelter down as they are severing food when cats are present. A visitor begs Lara to accept his senior cat until he can find another apartment as the health inspector now owns his building and unless he give up his senior cat, she is breaking his lease and evicting him.
The health inspector is found dead in her car with her throat slash. All the events at the shelter are postponed so Lara is looking for answers in order to share the new rooms. I HIGHLY RECOMMEND THIS BOOK AND SERIES.
Disclosure: Thanks to Lyrical Underground for a copy through NetGalley. The opinions expressed are my own.
The health inspector is found dead in her car with her throat slash. All the events at the shelter are postponed so Lara is looking for answers in order to share the new rooms. I HIGHLY RECOMMEND THIS BOOK AND SERIES.
Disclosure: Thanks to Lyrical Underground for a copy through NetGalley. The opinions expressed are my own.
August 9, 2019
In this fourth installment of the Cat Lady series, Lara and her beloved aunt Fran are excited for the grand opening of the reading area within the cat shelter where children will be able to sit and read a book, perhaps with a feline by their side. They've received generous donations from the community to the private shelter they have built within Aunt Fran's home and sometimes serve free refreshments to visitors who are coming to possibly adopt one or more of the cats seeking a "forever home." But their plans are derailed when the local health inspector, Evonda, makes a surprise visit the day before their planned formal opening of the area. She's determined to shut them down, saying that they are in violation of the health code because they serve food on the premises they are considered a cat café. She vows to return the next morning with a court order. After a restless night and cancelling the event, Lara and Aunt Fran wonder why Evonda never showed up. The chief visits the next morning to personally tell them that Evonda had been murdered, strangled in her car, with the cease and desist order against the shelter ready to be served. Lara realizes that this leaves them as prime suspects but she knows that neither she nor her aunt didn't kill her, though they certainly detested her. But who would go so far as murder? And why did she hate cats so much?
This was one of my favorite cozy reads this year. I could not put it down! I enjoy the strong familial bond between Lara and her aunt and admire the way that they have put their love of cats into a community mission. I like the quaint town--just like I would picture New England to be even though I've never been in such a place The suspects were varied and each of their characters had not only plausible motives and suspicious actions but they were also were well-developed. The mystery read at a good pace. The various romances--between Lara and Gideon and Aunt Fran and the police chief were pleasant storylines and they also contributed to the plot. I kept going back and forth between suspects and the ending was fantastic. A hint of paranormal which I enjoyed--and I am not one to choose paranormal cozies. I highly recommend this excellent read!
Thanks to NetGalley and Kensington for a digital ARC. My review is voluntary.
This was one of my favorite cozy reads this year. I could not put it down! I enjoy the strong familial bond between Lara and her aunt and admire the way that they have put their love of cats into a community mission. I like the quaint town--just like I would picture New England to be even though I've never been in such a place The suspects were varied and each of their characters had not only plausible motives and suspicious actions but they were also were well-developed. The mystery read at a good pace. The various romances--between Lara and Gideon and Aunt Fran and the police chief were pleasant storylines and they also contributed to the plot. I kept going back and forth between suspects and the ending was fantastic. A hint of paranormal which I enjoyed--and I am not one to choose paranormal cozies. I highly recommend this excellent read!
Thanks to NetGalley and Kensington for a digital ARC. My review is voluntary.
March 30, 2025
When the contractor puts the finishing touches on new addition to the High Cliff Shelter for Cats, Lara Caphart and Aunt Fran are excitedly finalizing plans for the open house they have planned to celebrate the completion of the new reading room. The following day would be the first “read to a cat” day in the brand-new space. The contractor has barely finished when the health inspector shows up. She’s threatening to cite them for running a “café” without a license, simply because they serve refreshments at their adoption events. No amount of explaining will deter her. Claws of Action is the fourth in the Cat Lady Mystery series by Linda Reilly. While this book can be read as a standalone, it may make more sense to the reader if the books are read in sequence, or at least if one has read the first book, Escape Claws.
Soon after she stomps out, a man shows up with his old cat, Smuggles. He explains that he’s in the process of looking for a new apartment and asks a favor: can he leave Smuggles at the shelter until he has secured new lodging. Although they would normally refuse, the women relent when they learn that Evonda Fray, the very same rude woman who had just left, is the man’s landlady.
The next day, Lara’s nerves are frayed as she dreads the re-appearance of Evonda Fray. When the doorbell rings, she is filled with dread. However, it’s not Mrs. Fray standing there. It’s Aunt Fran’s gentleman friend, calling on them in his official duty as chief of police. He’s there to inform them that Mrs. Fray has met her demise and that he needs both of them to come to the station to give a statement. Oh, no! Not again! Lara tells herself that she will not get involved. Not this time!
As a reader, I’m thinking, “Uh-uh. Right."
The plot is rather predictable, but the author throws in some credible red herrings. As usual, there are some very pleasant scenes with cats plus some asides involving other regular characters: shelter employee Kayla, Aunt Fran and Jerry (the chief), Lara’s friend Sherry and her boyfriend, plus Lara’s boyfriend Gideon, as well as a few new characters, some of whom may or may not have had a reason to kill the victim. It makes for an interesting tale. I should have known for sure who the killer was, but I was too entertained reading about the cats to pay attention!
This is a fun series, and it’s especially enjoyable for someone like me who loves cats and is involved with my local cat shelter. I particularly enjoy happy endings. The world needs more of those these days!
4 stars
Soon after she stomps out, a man shows up with his old cat, Smuggles. He explains that he’s in the process of looking for a new apartment and asks a favor: can he leave Smuggles at the shelter until he has secured new lodging. Although they would normally refuse, the women relent when they learn that Evonda Fray, the very same rude woman who had just left, is the man’s landlady.
The next day, Lara’s nerves are frayed as she dreads the re-appearance of Evonda Fray. When the doorbell rings, she is filled with dread. However, it’s not Mrs. Fray standing there. It’s Aunt Fran’s gentleman friend, calling on them in his official duty as chief of police. He’s there to inform them that Mrs. Fray has met her demise and that he needs both of them to come to the station to give a statement. Oh, no! Not again! Lara tells herself that she will not get involved. Not this time!
As a reader, I’m thinking, “Uh-uh. Right."
The plot is rather predictable, but the author throws in some credible red herrings. As usual, there are some very pleasant scenes with cats plus some asides involving other regular characters: shelter employee Kayla, Aunt Fran and Jerry (the chief), Lara’s friend Sherry and her boyfriend, plus Lara’s boyfriend Gideon, as well as a few new characters, some of whom may or may not have had a reason to kill the victim. It makes for an interesting tale. I should have known for sure who the killer was, but I was too entertained reading about the cats to pay attention!
This is a fun series, and it’s especially enjoyable for someone like me who loves cats and is involved with my local cat shelter. I particularly enjoy happy endings. The world needs more of those these days!
4 stars
August 29, 2019
I have to say this the Cat Ladies Mysteries series is one of my favorites out there today. Each installment just gets better and better. Ever time I think I have a new favorite from the series, the next book I read ends up knocking the last one out of the water.
Claws of Action is a fun fast-paced mystery that kept me guessing until the end. This can be read as a standalone, but I truly suggest you start from book one and go from there because that way you can really truly appreciate how this series has grown by each installment. In this installment, you read about the same loveable characters with the addition of a couple of more new characters, which I hope will have some cameos in future books.
I highly recommend this series to anyone who loves cozy mysteries.
Claws of Action is a fun fast-paced mystery that kept me guessing until the end. This can be read as a standalone, but I truly suggest you start from book one and go from there because that way you can really truly appreciate how this series has grown by each installment. In this installment, you read about the same loveable characters with the addition of a couple of more new characters, which I hope will have some cameos in future books.
I highly recommend this series to anyone who loves cozy mysteries.
August 22, 2019
In this next book of the series the ladies have added in a reading room for the shelter and things are going well. All that is turned upside down when the local health inspector stops by and wants to close the shelter down. Lara is shocked and can't figure out why the woman is so hostile and tries to reason with her. Things take a turn when the health inspector is found dead the next day murdered. Having visited the shelter the day before her death puts Lara and her Aunt at the top of the suspect list which puts the shelter in a bad light. Lara is worried about the shelter and how Aunt Fran is dealing with the whole situation. With everything that is happening around her Lara decides she must take steps of her own and start looking into who killed Evonda and why. She soon learns that there were several people who disliked the woman with good reason. Lara knows she must sift through the suspects and figure out who the most likely culprit is and then find evidence. Follow along as Lara investigates a list full of suspects, will she come out triumphant in the end or has she put herself into danger by looking into things. This is a great series filled with characters that are easy to get to know, several furry friends, and a mystery that needs to be solved!
July 26, 2019
Claws of Action is Book 4 in the Cat Lady Mystery Series. I have read every book in this series and I think this is my favorite. The author has outdone herself!
The High Cliff Cat Shelter is getting ready to show off the new reading room and open house.
The health inspector shows up and is threatening to shut down the shelter because food is being served when the cats are around. Next thing you know, the health inspector is found dead.
The mystery is extremely well written with twists and turns and enough sleuths for this sleuther to go on an adventure in mystery solving. Still, I didn't guess who the murderer was.
I live in New England and I love the setting of New Hampshire, its very accurate. The characters are well developed and fleshed out. This book can be read as a stand alone, but I highly recommend reading the first 3 books as you will enjoy them just as much.
The High Cliff Cat Shelter is getting ready to show off the new reading room and open house.
The health inspector shows up and is threatening to shut down the shelter because food is being served when the cats are around. Next thing you know, the health inspector is found dead.
The mystery is extremely well written with twists and turns and enough sleuths for this sleuther to go on an adventure in mystery solving. Still, I didn't guess who the murderer was.
I live in New England and I love the setting of New Hampshire, its very accurate. The characters are well developed and fleshed out. This book can be read as a stand alone, but I highly recommend reading the first 3 books as you will enjoy them just as much.
June 20, 2019
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for the chance to read this book!
Linda Reilly is one of my favorite cozy authors, so I jumped at the chance to read her newest offering! I love the cat shelter theme, and the reoccuring cat Blue! It's a stand out idea in a sea of themed cozies, and it's still working well four books in. The actual mystery took some unraveling, as there was quite a few players with different stakes, but I am happy withe the outcome! I had suspicions, but couldn't see the motive.
This series and author just keep getting stronger. If you are in the market for a new favorite cozy, consider this one! Five stars!
Linda Reilly is one of my favorite cozy authors, so I jumped at the chance to read her newest offering! I love the cat shelter theme, and the reoccuring cat Blue! It's a stand out idea in a sea of themed cozies, and it's still working well four books in. The actual mystery took some unraveling, as there was quite a few players with different stakes, but I am happy withe the outcome! I had suspicions, but couldn't see the motive.
This series and author just keep getting stronger. If you are in the market for a new favorite cozy, consider this one! Five stars!
June 21, 2019
One of my favorite series, I bumped this right to the top of my reading list as soon as I was approved for an ARC. And it did not disappoint! Lara Caphart and her Aunt Fran run a small no-cage cat shelter out of their home in Whisper Jog, NH. After many new renovations they are almost ready to open up a new area and expand their Read to a Cat program. That is, until a surprise visit from a health inspector threatens them with a cease and desist order. Then inspector is found dead the next day and they end up on the list of suspects. Peopled with a likeable cast of characters along with a number of credible suspects, the story moves quickly and keeps you guessing.
Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
June 17, 2019
Claws of Action is the fourth in the Cat Lady Mystery series. The series is centered around a cat shelter ran by Lara and her Aunt Fran. In this installment, the shelter is under attack by a particularly vicious health inspector, who is trying to close them down. When the health inspector ends up dead, there are plenty of suspects to go around. In between caring for her feline charges, Lara investigates the crime, and the more she learns about Evonda Fray, it seems the more suspects she has. Good mystery read especially for fans of animal themed cozies.
June 15, 2019
This series is definitely in my top five favorites.
Lara and Aunt Fran are my two favorite characters and I'm always giddy with excitement when a new book is coming out.
This book is my favorite so far. The mystery was exceptional and I was definitely surprised at the reveal.
I think any fan of cozy mysteries will enjoy Claws of Action by the extremely talented Linda Reilly.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for approving me to read an advanced copy of this book.
Lara and Aunt Fran are my two favorite characters and I'm always giddy with excitement when a new book is coming out.
This book is my favorite so far. The mystery was exceptional and I was definitely surprised at the reveal.
I think any fan of cozy mysteries will enjoy Claws of Action by the extremely talented Linda Reilly.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for approving me to read an advanced copy of this book.
July 4, 2019
This series has been entertaining and the fourth book was a very enjoyable read. I'm not a cat person, but I love the way the main characters have set up their shelter, where the cats have the run of the house. It reminds me of where my sister boards her cats when she travels. Lara and Aunt Fran are very likable characters and keep the reader engaged in the story. The regular cast of secondary characters makes their return appearance with some new ones added for purposes of the mystery. I thought the mystery was well done. I particularly liked how the victim at first was someone who appeared unlikable but as the mystery unfolded, Lara came to see that there was more to her that the first interaction she had with the victim. There were plenty of suspects and the way the clues were presented had me distracted enough that I did not guess the identity of the killer.
I like the characters in this series and think the author has done a wonderful job with their growth, personally and in relationships. There is a bit of romance for Lara and Aunt Fran but it feels natural and does not detract in any way from the story. I will definitely be back for more in this series and have added some previous work from this author to my TBR list.
I voluntarily read a digital ARC provided to me by the publisher through Netgalley.
I like the characters in this series and think the author has done a wonderful job with their growth, personally and in relationships. There is a bit of romance for Lara and Aunt Fran but it feels natural and does not detract in any way from the story. I will definitely be back for more in this series and have added some previous work from this author to my TBR list.
I voluntarily read a digital ARC provided to me by the publisher through Netgalley.
September 4, 2019
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Claws of Action
Cat Lady Mystery #4
By Linda Reilly
ISBN 9781516109876
Author’s website: lindasreilly.com
Brought to you by OBS Reviewer Jeanie
Synopsis:
The only thing that could make the High Cliff Shelter for Cats even cozier is a reading room where kids can snuggle up with a furry feline and a book. But as Lara and Aunt Fran prepare for the reading nook’s official opening, the health inspector in their New Hampshire town, Evonda Fray, decrees that the shelter qualifies as a “cat café,” thanks to the free snacks it serves to visitors—and that it must be shut down.
When Evonda’s body is found in her car clutching a copy of the cease-and-desist order, suspicion naturally falls on Lara and Aunt Fran. But there’s a whole litter of potential culprits, including a tenant in one of Evonda’s buildings who’d been ordered to give up his rescue cat, a disgruntled daughter-in-law, and more. Now Lara—with some help from her aunt and her spirit cat, Blue—has to pin the tail on the right suspect.
Review:
I enjoyed this latest offering in the Cat Lady Mystery series! Life at the High Cliff Shelter for Cats offers an increasingly wonderful and professional service to the community of Whisker Jog, New Hampshire. Lara, a watercolor painter and cat lover, came to help Aunt Fran when she needed to have both knees replaced and had more cats than she could care for in her condition. Since then, Fran had her surgeries, Lara has helped establish the cage-free cat shelter, and there are more happy cat owners in Whisker Jog.
Renovations to add a reading room to the shelter are complete, with the first scheduled Read to a Cat day imminent and fully booked. It is a relatively new concept at shelters, the idea given to Lara when a child sneaked in one day with a book, determined to read to a cat. Their grand opening is scheduled. Until trouble walked in the shelter in the form of a health inspector, also known as Hurricane Evonda.
Evonda Fray is a health inspector who heard that High Cliff Shelter is a cat café. Fran and Lara do offer refreshments at no charge to visitors on adoption days, but beverages and cookies is at the option of the visitor. Not to be deterred, she issues them a citation for operating a cat café without a license and will obtain and deliver a cease and desist order the next day.
Gideon, Lara’s boyfriend and an attorney, advises them on the matter. If she tries to shut them down, he will file a “cause of action” and worst case, they can stop serving refreshments. While Gideon is there, Brian, a young man, arrives with his cat in a carrier. The new owner of his apartment building is none other than Evonda Fray. Despite his lease that allows him to have his older cat who sleeps most of the time, she claims the cat is damaging the place and he must get rid of the cat or she will. After pleading his case, Lara and Fran will keep Smuggles until Brian finds a cat-friendly apartment and moves.
The next morning, Evonda Fray is found dead in her car outside her home. The paperwork to get the cease and desist order for the shelter is clutched in one hand. As a result, Fran and Lara have to go to the police station to be questioned.
One suspect is the owner of Smuggles, Brian. He admits to having had run after Mrs. Fray’s car as she left the apartment building and sticking his hands in the back, driver’s side window that was open. Knowing his fingerprints would be found, he could be picked up for her murder, and asked if they would keep his beloved cat however long it takes. When cat hairs similar to those of two of the shelter’s cats are found in the back seat of Mrs. Fray’s car, where the killer had been waiting for her.
The characters are well-defined and likable, with few exceptions. Lara and Fran are delightful ladies, and I’m glad that they are in this business venture together. I also enjoy Lara’s best friend from childhood, Sherry. Evonda Fray loved birds, especially black birds, but had very few friends except for the remaining three of the “four old crows”, and her son Tim.
Plot twists continue to change who the suspects might be. I wanted to believe the innocence of those that Lara was sure of, despite some of the evidence that popped up. When it appeared that Lara might be suspect, at least according to the state police, things get heated and Lara just might choose to forget that she won’t ask a few questions around town. Lara also has help from Blue, a beautiful, mysterious ragdoll cat that only she has been able to see since childhood. Blue plays a very special part this time! I had a good idea who the bad guy was early on but couldn’t come up with the motive or determine the complexity. Time revealed more little clues that I was surprised nobody saw. There are some surprises, however, and all loose ends are tied up at the end. I highly recommend this cozy mystery and series! It just keeps getting better and better!
*OBS would like to thank the publisher for supplying a free copy of this title in exchange for an honest review*
Claws of Action
Cat Lady Mystery #4
By Linda Reilly
ISBN 9781516109876
Author’s website: lindasreilly.com
Brought to you by OBS Reviewer Jeanie
Synopsis:
The only thing that could make the High Cliff Shelter for Cats even cozier is a reading room where kids can snuggle up with a furry feline and a book. But as Lara and Aunt Fran prepare for the reading nook’s official opening, the health inspector in their New Hampshire town, Evonda Fray, decrees that the shelter qualifies as a “cat café,” thanks to the free snacks it serves to visitors—and that it must be shut down.
When Evonda’s body is found in her car clutching a copy of the cease-and-desist order, suspicion naturally falls on Lara and Aunt Fran. But there’s a whole litter of potential culprits, including a tenant in one of Evonda’s buildings who’d been ordered to give up his rescue cat, a disgruntled daughter-in-law, and more. Now Lara—with some help from her aunt and her spirit cat, Blue—has to pin the tail on the right suspect.
Review:
I enjoyed this latest offering in the Cat Lady Mystery series! Life at the High Cliff Shelter for Cats offers an increasingly wonderful and professional service to the community of Whisker Jog, New Hampshire. Lara, a watercolor painter and cat lover, came to help Aunt Fran when she needed to have both knees replaced and had more cats than she could care for in her condition. Since then, Fran had her surgeries, Lara has helped establish the cage-free cat shelter, and there are more happy cat owners in Whisker Jog.
Renovations to add a reading room to the shelter are complete, with the first scheduled Read to a Cat day imminent and fully booked. It is a relatively new concept at shelters, the idea given to Lara when a child sneaked in one day with a book, determined to read to a cat. Their grand opening is scheduled. Until trouble walked in the shelter in the form of a health inspector, also known as Hurricane Evonda.
Evonda Fray is a health inspector who heard that High Cliff Shelter is a cat café. Fran and Lara do offer refreshments at no charge to visitors on adoption days, but beverages and cookies is at the option of the visitor. Not to be deterred, she issues them a citation for operating a cat café without a license and will obtain and deliver a cease and desist order the next day.
Gideon, Lara’s boyfriend and an attorney, advises them on the matter. If she tries to shut them down, he will file a “cause of action” and worst case, they can stop serving refreshments. While Gideon is there, Brian, a young man, arrives with his cat in a carrier. The new owner of his apartment building is none other than Evonda Fray. Despite his lease that allows him to have his older cat who sleeps most of the time, she claims the cat is damaging the place and he must get rid of the cat or she will. After pleading his case, Lara and Fran will keep Smuggles until Brian finds a cat-friendly apartment and moves.
The next morning, Evonda Fray is found dead in her car outside her home. The paperwork to get the cease and desist order for the shelter is clutched in one hand. As a result, Fran and Lara have to go to the police station to be questioned.
One suspect is the owner of Smuggles, Brian. He admits to having had run after Mrs. Fray’s car as she left the apartment building and sticking his hands in the back, driver’s side window that was open. Knowing his fingerprints would be found, he could be picked up for her murder, and asked if they would keep his beloved cat however long it takes. When cat hairs similar to those of two of the shelter’s cats are found in the back seat of Mrs. Fray’s car, where the killer had been waiting for her.
The characters are well-defined and likable, with few exceptions. Lara and Fran are delightful ladies, and I’m glad that they are in this business venture together. I also enjoy Lara’s best friend from childhood, Sherry. Evonda Fray loved birds, especially black birds, but had very few friends except for the remaining three of the “four old crows”, and her son Tim.
Plot twists continue to change who the suspects might be. I wanted to believe the innocence of those that Lara was sure of, despite some of the evidence that popped up. When it appeared that Lara might be suspect, at least according to the state police, things get heated and Lara just might choose to forget that she won’t ask a few questions around town. Lara also has help from Blue, a beautiful, mysterious ragdoll cat that only she has been able to see since childhood. Blue plays a very special part this time! I had a good idea who the bad guy was early on but couldn’t come up with the motive or determine the complexity. Time revealed more little clues that I was surprised nobody saw. There are some surprises, however, and all loose ends are tied up at the end. I highly recommend this cozy mystery and series! It just keeps getting better and better!
*OBS would like to thank the publisher for supplying a free copy of this title in exchange for an honest review*
August 6, 2019
Claws of Action by Linda Reilly is the fourth book in the A Cat Lady Mystery series. I enjoyed this book and have purchased the previous three books so I can start at the beginning and be all caught up.
The only thing that could make the High Cliff Shelter for Cats even cozier is a reading room where kids can snuggle up with a furry feline and a book. But as Lara and Aunt Fran prepare for the reading nook’s official opening, the health inspector in their New Hampshire town, Evonda Fray, decrees that the shelter qualifies as a “cat café,” thanks to the free snacks it serves to visitors—and that it must be shut down.
When Evonda’s body is found in her car clutching a copy of the cease-and-desist order, suspicion naturally falls on Lara and Aunt Fran. But there’s a whole litter of potential culprits, including a tenant in one of Evonda’s buildings who’d been ordered to give up his rescue cat, a disgruntled daughter-in-law, and more. Now Lara—with some help from her aunt and her spirit cat, Blue—has to pin the tail on the right suspect …
Even though I haven't read the previous books in this series, it didn't cause a problem as this can be read as a stand-alone. I think this will be one of my favorite cat mystery series.
I like the Protagonist Lara who runs a cat shelter in her home, and once again is at the center of a murder. The characters are well developed and very likeable, such as her Aunt Fran and Blue a rag-doll cat that only Lara can see who provides hints in the direction that Lara should investigate plus who doesn't love a cats.
There are plenty of twists and turns to keep me wanting to find out what will happen next. The book is engaging from start to finish, grabbing you from the very beginning. I cant wait for the fifth installment in this series, I recommend this to cozy lovers.
I requested and received an Advance Reader Copy of this book from Kensington Books - Lyrical Underground and NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my OWN.
The only thing that could make the High Cliff Shelter for Cats even cozier is a reading room where kids can snuggle up with a furry feline and a book. But as Lara and Aunt Fran prepare for the reading nook’s official opening, the health inspector in their New Hampshire town, Evonda Fray, decrees that the shelter qualifies as a “cat café,” thanks to the free snacks it serves to visitors—and that it must be shut down.
When Evonda’s body is found in her car clutching a copy of the cease-and-desist order, suspicion naturally falls on Lara and Aunt Fran. But there’s a whole litter of potential culprits, including a tenant in one of Evonda’s buildings who’d been ordered to give up his rescue cat, a disgruntled daughter-in-law, and more. Now Lara—with some help from her aunt and her spirit cat, Blue—has to pin the tail on the right suspect …
Even though I haven't read the previous books in this series, it didn't cause a problem as this can be read as a stand-alone. I think this will be one of my favorite cat mystery series.
I like the Protagonist Lara who runs a cat shelter in her home, and once again is at the center of a murder. The characters are well developed and very likeable, such as her Aunt Fran and Blue a rag-doll cat that only Lara can see who provides hints in the direction that Lara should investigate plus who doesn't love a cats.
There are plenty of twists and turns to keep me wanting to find out what will happen next. The book is engaging from start to finish, grabbing you from the very beginning. I cant wait for the fifth installment in this series, I recommend this to cozy lovers.
I requested and received an Advance Reader Copy of this book from Kensington Books - Lyrical Underground and NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my OWN.
August 4, 2019
A "keep you guessing" mystery, cats, two strong and resourceful main characters, a lovely setting and did I mention kittens?! The latest book from Linda Reilly combines all of the elements above into a book that you simply can't put down!
When Lara and Aunt Fran are faced with their feline adoption agency being shut down by an overzealous health inspector, the two women are devastated. When the health inspector turns up murdered, things go from bad to worse since Lara and Aunt Fran are considered suspects.
I love this series because Lara is a very "real" character, that the reader can relate to, with doubts about her new-found amateur sleuth title. She's not sure why murder keeps finding her but she knows she has to help find the truth. The mystery/romance balance is perfect and I enjoyed the side stories involving Lara's best friend Sherry and assistant Kayla.
If you're a cat lover, you'll be enchanted by the funny and beautiful cats and kittens that are at the center. The most special being Blue, a gorgeous Ragdoll with a very special power!
I can't wait for the next book!
I received an ARC from NetGalley for a fair and honest review of this book.
When Lara and Aunt Fran are faced with their feline adoption agency being shut down by an overzealous health inspector, the two women are devastated. When the health inspector turns up murdered, things go from bad to worse since Lara and Aunt Fran are considered suspects.
I love this series because Lara is a very "real" character, that the reader can relate to, with doubts about her new-found amateur sleuth title. She's not sure why murder keeps finding her but she knows she has to help find the truth. The mystery/romance balance is perfect and I enjoyed the side stories involving Lara's best friend Sherry and assistant Kayla.
If you're a cat lover, you'll be enchanted by the funny and beautiful cats and kittens that are at the center. The most special being Blue, a gorgeous Ragdoll with a very special power!
I can't wait for the next book!
I received an ARC from NetGalley for a fair and honest review of this book.
March 17, 2020
4 stelle e mezza
La soluzione del mistero è giunta come una sorpresa, ma sono stata più attratta dall'aspetto gattesco del libro che dal resto. Adoro come vengono tratteggiati i vari gatti in questa serie!
La soluzione del mistero è giunta come una sorpresa, ma sono stata più attratta dall'aspetto gattesco del libro che dal resto. Adoro come vengono tratteggiati i vari gatti in questa serie!
July 20, 2019
This is the fourth book in the series, and I hope there are many more.
The story was one in which I could not put the book down, it grabbed me from the beginning and did not let me go!
This book has delightful characters that I love reading about.
The cat shelter is a great premise that does not take away from the mystery, and includes a touch of the paranormal.
This is a must read cozy series and I highly recommend it!
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
The story was one in which I could not put the book down, it grabbed me from the beginning and did not let me go!
This book has delightful characters that I love reading about.
The cat shelter is a great premise that does not take away from the mystery, and includes a touch of the paranormal.
This is a must read cozy series and I highly recommend it!
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
August 9, 2019
Claws Of Action
A Cat Lady Mystery , Book #4
Linda Reilly
5 Stars
Synopsis:
Purr-suing a killer …
The only thing that could make the High Cliff Shelter for Cats even cozier is a reading room where kids can snuggle up with a furry feline and a book. But as Lara and Aunt Fran prepare for the reading nook’s official opening, the health inspector in their New Hampshire town, Evonda Fray, decrees that the shelter qualifies as a “cat café,” thanks to the free snacks it serves to visitors—and that it must be shut down.
When Evonda’s body is found in her car clutching a copy of the cease-and-desist order, suspicion naturally falls on Lara and Aunt Fran. But there’s a whole litter of potential culprits, including a tenant in one of Evonda’s buildings who’d been ordered to give up his rescue cat, a disgruntled daughter-in-law, and more. Now Lara—with some help from her aunt and her spirit cat, Blue—has to pin the tail on the right suspect …(Goodreads)
Review:
The writing style flows smoothly and the book is an easy read. The author is very talented in her descriptive writing and she brought the town of Whisker Jog, New Hampshire, to life in my mind. I could picture High Cliff Shelter for Cats, imagining all of the cats being loved and cared for.
The characters are well rounded and well developed. I love the relationship between Lara and Aunt Fran, they compliment each other wonderfully. Lara is more apt to fly of the handle, and Aunt Fran calms her down and thinks things through. Gideon is a great boyfriend and I like how their relationship is progressing. And I love all of the cats, they bring so much to the story. I like the mystical Blue, I like how he always appears when Lara needs him.
The mystery was well plotted and carried along at a great pace. There were plenty of suspects to consider and clue to sift through. I was very surprised at who the culprit was, which is a good thing.
I would highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a well crafted cozy mystery. This is one of my favorite cozy series to read and I cannot wait until the next one is released (I know I will have to wait a while, unfortunately).
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book provided by the publisher, Kensington Books, and NetGalley, which I greatly appreciate.
A Cat Lady Mystery , Book #4
Linda Reilly
5 Stars
Synopsis:
Purr-suing a killer …
The only thing that could make the High Cliff Shelter for Cats even cozier is a reading room where kids can snuggle up with a furry feline and a book. But as Lara and Aunt Fran prepare for the reading nook’s official opening, the health inspector in their New Hampshire town, Evonda Fray, decrees that the shelter qualifies as a “cat café,” thanks to the free snacks it serves to visitors—and that it must be shut down.
When Evonda’s body is found in her car clutching a copy of the cease-and-desist order, suspicion naturally falls on Lara and Aunt Fran. But there’s a whole litter of potential culprits, including a tenant in one of Evonda’s buildings who’d been ordered to give up his rescue cat, a disgruntled daughter-in-law, and more. Now Lara—with some help from her aunt and her spirit cat, Blue—has to pin the tail on the right suspect …(Goodreads)
Review:
The writing style flows smoothly and the book is an easy read. The author is very talented in her descriptive writing and she brought the town of Whisker Jog, New Hampshire, to life in my mind. I could picture High Cliff Shelter for Cats, imagining all of the cats being loved and cared for.
The characters are well rounded and well developed. I love the relationship between Lara and Aunt Fran, they compliment each other wonderfully. Lara is more apt to fly of the handle, and Aunt Fran calms her down and thinks things through. Gideon is a great boyfriend and I like how their relationship is progressing. And I love all of the cats, they bring so much to the story. I like the mystical Blue, I like how he always appears when Lara needs him.
The mystery was well plotted and carried along at a great pace. There were plenty of suspects to consider and clue to sift through. I was very surprised at who the culprit was, which is a good thing.
I would highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a well crafted cozy mystery. This is one of my favorite cozy series to read and I cannot wait until the next one is released (I know I will have to wait a while, unfortunately).
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book provided by the publisher, Kensington Books, and NetGalley, which I greatly appreciate.
August 12, 2019
Claws of Action is the fourth book in Linda Reilly’s Cat Lady Mystery series. This is a light cozy with a well-plotted storyline and a great cast of well-developed characters, both human and feline. The story flows at a steady pace, with an intriguing mystery, and a hint of the paranormal. The plot moves swiftly, and there are lots of twists and turns, a few red herrings, and plenty of suspects to keep the reader engaged. I recommend this book to anyone who enjoys reading cozy mysteries.
Lara Caphart is a talented watercolor artist who moved back to Whisker Jog, New Hampshire to help her aunt, Fran Clarkson. Blue, a stunning Ragdoll cat who only Lara can see, is her guardian cat with powerful protective instincts and the ability to point out clues to mysteries. Lara and Fran own and operate High Cliff Shelter for Cats, a unique animal shelter in their home. Lara enjoys spending time with her old friend, Sherry Bowker, who owns and operates Bowker’s Coffee Shop with her mom. The relationship between Lara and Gideon Halley, a lawyer, continues to progress. Fran and Police Chief Jerry Whitley are spending time together, but she’s having trouble accepting the fact that he doesn’t love cats, but he’s trying to do better. Lara and Fran are working on a cozy reading room where children can read to the cats, and as they prepare for the grand opening, a health inspector, Evonda Fray, makes a surprise visit and informs Lara that she is shutting down the shelter for running a cat café without a license, which they aren’t doing. Brian Downing asks Lara to take care of his senior cat, Smuggles, while he looks for a new apartment because Evonda, his landlady, will be evicting him if he doesn’t get rid of Smuggles. When Evonda is murdered, Lara and Aunt Fran are considered suspects. As Lara asks about the deceased and those who knew her, she learns that the woman made enemies most of her life.
I received an Advance Reader Copy of this book from NetGalley and voluntarily reviewed it.
Lara Caphart is a talented watercolor artist who moved back to Whisker Jog, New Hampshire to help her aunt, Fran Clarkson. Blue, a stunning Ragdoll cat who only Lara can see, is her guardian cat with powerful protective instincts and the ability to point out clues to mysteries. Lara and Fran own and operate High Cliff Shelter for Cats, a unique animal shelter in their home. Lara enjoys spending time with her old friend, Sherry Bowker, who owns and operates Bowker’s Coffee Shop with her mom. The relationship between Lara and Gideon Halley, a lawyer, continues to progress. Fran and Police Chief Jerry Whitley are spending time together, but she’s having trouble accepting the fact that he doesn’t love cats, but he’s trying to do better. Lara and Fran are working on a cozy reading room where children can read to the cats, and as they prepare for the grand opening, a health inspector, Evonda Fray, makes a surprise visit and informs Lara that she is shutting down the shelter for running a cat café without a license, which they aren’t doing. Brian Downing asks Lara to take care of his senior cat, Smuggles, while he looks for a new apartment because Evonda, his landlady, will be evicting him if he doesn’t get rid of Smuggles. When Evonda is murdered, Lara and Aunt Fran are considered suspects. As Lara asks about the deceased and those who knew her, she learns that the woman made enemies most of her life.
I received an Advance Reader Copy of this book from NetGalley and voluntarily reviewed it.
August 11, 2019
Claws of Action is the fourth installment in the A Cat Lady Mystery series set in the small town of Whisker Jog, New Hampshire and featuring Lara Caphart and her Aunt Fran, owners of the High Cliff Shelter for cats which is found within the walls of Aunt Fran's Victorian home. Thanks to generous donations from the townspeople, the ladies have been able to complete a reading room at the shelter so that children can come in and read to the strays.
The day before the grand opening of the reading room, the new health inspector, Evonda Fray appears at the door and demands an inspection. She claims that the ladies are actually running a cat cafe because they occasionally offer a beverage and/or a snack to potential adopters, and because they aren't licensed for that she plans to shut them down. Lara is furious and vows to fight back.
When Aunt Fran's boyfriend, Whisker Jog Chief of Police Jerry Whitley arrives the next morning to say that Evonda has been found strangled in her car with the cease and desist order for the shelter in her hand, the ladies are not surprised that someone has done away with the nasty woman but they are shocked to learn that they are the prime suspects in her death.
Determined to clear their names, Lara teams up with her lawyer boyfriend Gideon and her ghostly cat Blue to sniff out the real killer. A fast paced plot featuring well developed characters, a romantic disagreement and a delightful cast of cats will keep you turning the pages. I look forward to the next adventures of Lara, Fran, Gideon and Blue.
I received an advanced copy of Claws of Action from NetGalley via Lyrical Underground. While not required to write a review I am happy to offer my honest opinion.
The day before the grand opening of the reading room, the new health inspector, Evonda Fray appears at the door and demands an inspection. She claims that the ladies are actually running a cat cafe because they occasionally offer a beverage and/or a snack to potential adopters, and because they aren't licensed for that she plans to shut them down. Lara is furious and vows to fight back.
When Aunt Fran's boyfriend, Whisker Jog Chief of Police Jerry Whitley arrives the next morning to say that Evonda has been found strangled in her car with the cease and desist order for the shelter in her hand, the ladies are not surprised that someone has done away with the nasty woman but they are shocked to learn that they are the prime suspects in her death.
Determined to clear their names, Lara teams up with her lawyer boyfriend Gideon and her ghostly cat Blue to sniff out the real killer. A fast paced plot featuring well developed characters, a romantic disagreement and a delightful cast of cats will keep you turning the pages. I look forward to the next adventures of Lara, Fran, Gideon and Blue.
I received an advanced copy of Claws of Action from NetGalley via Lyrical Underground. While not required to write a review I am happy to offer my honest opinion.
July 31, 2019
CLAWS OF ACTION, the fourth book in the Cat Lady Mystery series by Linda Reilly, is another darling addition to a charming series. The premise revolves around protagonist Lara Caphart and her Aunt Fran, running a cat shelter in their home where they match clients with their adoptive cats. There are so many heartwarming scenes, such as Lara setting up a reading room where kids can read to the shelter cats. She’s found that the reading skills of kids increase while the cats received attention as they bond. When a witchy health inspector, who threatens to close them down, is found murdered, suspicion falls on Lara and her aunt. As Lara asks questions about people who had interaction with the deceased, she finds the woman made enemies most of her adult life. I liked that as Lara finds out information, the victim’s life is revealed and as a result, becomes a sympathetic person. This adds another layer of emotional connection to the story.
The plot is well thought out and fast-paced. Given the abrasive personality of the health inspector, it’s no surprise that there were plenty of suspects. Ms. Reilly does a great job of taking the reader along as Lara sniffs out the clues. In addition to asking questions and listening to talk around town, there’s a paranormal thread that runs through the story in the form of Blue. A rag-doll cat that only Lara can see, Blue provides hints in the direction that Lara should investigate. With a surprising, suspenseful reveal, the author wraps up the various subplot threads in the story and left me counting down the days until the next book in the series.
I was provided an advance copy via Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
The plot is well thought out and fast-paced. Given the abrasive personality of the health inspector, it’s no surprise that there were plenty of suspects. Ms. Reilly does a great job of taking the reader along as Lara sniffs out the clues. In addition to asking questions and listening to talk around town, there’s a paranormal thread that runs through the story in the form of Blue. A rag-doll cat that only Lara can see, Blue provides hints in the direction that Lara should investigate. With a surprising, suspenseful reveal, the author wraps up the various subplot threads in the story and left me counting down the days until the next book in the series.
I was provided an advance copy via Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
August 13, 2019
Another great installment in the Cat Lady mystery series. I'm happy to be counted amongst those who consider themselves 'cat ladies' (despite not currently having any, more's the pity), and this series appeals to me because not only are the stories well written, the mysteries well plotted and the characters appealing, there are plenty of cats for me to vicariously enjoy until that time I can have real life ones again.
This time Lara and her Aunt Fran are preparing to open a reading room, where people can come and spend time reading to the cats. All is ready to go when a health inspector drops by unannounced and says she is going to cite them for being an unlicensed 'cat cafe' because they serve cookies to potential adopters. It gets worse when the next day this lady is found dead - murdered - in her car at her home! The citation is on the seat beside her, and of course the finger points at Aunt Fran and Lara. It's now up to them to clear their names, and get the High Cliff Cat Shelter out of trouble.
The mystery was good and I thought I had fingered the perpetrator about halfway through - but I hadn't! I won't say there were a lot of clues that lead to the murderer (although, if I'm honest, I don't generally spot them anyway), but it was a good twist and it wrapped up well.
This is one of my favourite series and I'm looking forward to NO 5.
Thank you to NetGalley, the author and publisher for providing me with an ARC to read and review. All opinions are strictly my own.
This time Lara and her Aunt Fran are preparing to open a reading room, where people can come and spend time reading to the cats. All is ready to go when a health inspector drops by unannounced and says she is going to cite them for being an unlicensed 'cat cafe' because they serve cookies to potential adopters. It gets worse when the next day this lady is found dead - murdered - in her car at her home! The citation is on the seat beside her, and of course the finger points at Aunt Fran and Lara. It's now up to them to clear their names, and get the High Cliff Cat Shelter out of trouble.
The mystery was good and I thought I had fingered the perpetrator about halfway through - but I hadn't! I won't say there were a lot of clues that lead to the murderer (although, if I'm honest, I don't generally spot them anyway), but it was a good twist and it wrapped up well.
This is one of my favourite series and I'm looking forward to NO 5.
Thank you to NetGalley, the author and publisher for providing me with an ARC to read and review. All opinions are strictly my own.
July 25, 2019
This book is a mystery in a mystery. I hope, as this series continues, that we get to learn more about Blue and why he appears when he does - other than to help Lara when a murderer is attacking her of course! I really hope that Blue will reveal himself to Aunt Fran at some point - she seems to wish she could see Blue too.
A mean-spirited woman who hates cats comes to inspect the shelter and declares that she is submitting a cease and desist order to the courts; however the next morning she is found dead and, of course, Lara and Aunt Fran are on the suspect list, but instead of diving in headfirst to solve the murder, Lara decides she is going to let the police handle it. That lasts for a couple of minutes and then she is back to her sleuthing ways. Will her Ragdoll, ghost cat, Blue appear to her in time to save her?
I just love this series! As the series continues, I love the growing relationship between Lara and Gideon, Aunt Fran and the Chief, and the growing popularity of the shelter. This book is well-written and a quick read (which I love because there are so many books to read)! I love cozies with cats and this one has an entire shelter of them!
4.5 stars
I voluntarily reviewed this book on Netgalley.
A mean-spirited woman who hates cats comes to inspect the shelter and declares that she is submitting a cease and desist order to the courts; however the next morning she is found dead and, of course, Lara and Aunt Fran are on the suspect list, but instead of diving in headfirst to solve the murder, Lara decides she is going to let the police handle it. That lasts for a couple of minutes and then she is back to her sleuthing ways. Will her Ragdoll, ghost cat, Blue appear to her in time to save her?
I just love this series! As the series continues, I love the growing relationship between Lara and Gideon, Aunt Fran and the Chief, and the growing popularity of the shelter. This book is well-written and a quick read (which I love because there are so many books to read)! I love cozies with cats and this one has an entire shelter of them!
4.5 stars
I voluntarily reviewed this book on Netgalley.
August 6, 2019
Having free snacks at an animal shelter does not make it a cat cafe but the hateful health inspector Evonda is after Lara and her aunt Fran, who have created a lovely in home shelter for homeless cats. Evonda is (cozy fans can predict) found dead and Lara and Fran are tops of the suspect list. Hah- she's been awful to others in the town of Whisper Jog, New Hampshire and there's more to her story than it appears on the surface. Lara's car Blue (I know, I know, just go with it) helps out here, as in the earlier books. Reilly has a nice way with characters and has created a cozy series that keeps you guessing - this is no exception. I admit to being a fan because I like the characters (I'm happy to see a little but not too much love interest for BOTH Lara and Fran in this installment) and the setting, as well as the writing. Thanks to Netgalley for the ARC. It will be great as a standalone and you'll want to read the next one as I do.
June 25, 2019
One way to judge how much I like a book is by how hard it is to put down. I know I love this one because I found it really hard to stop reading before it was over. The mystery in Claws of Action is a bit tricky to solve, since the victim is disliked by many, and I was completely blown away when the culprit was revealed! I love the main characters in this book: Lara, her Aunt Fran Fran, and Gideon, plus the resident cats at the High Cliff Shelter for Cats. The goings-on at the shelter, Lara's relationship with her aunt, her boyfriend, and her friends, and the intriguing mystery combine to make this an easy, fun read!
I received an advance copy of this book. This review contains my honest thoughts and opinions.
I received an advance copy of this book. This review contains my honest thoughts and opinions.
August 15, 2019
Book 4 in the series.
I didn't realize this was the newest in a series until I starting reading and decided I was missing a lot of back story. I ended up getting the previous three books from the library and reading them first. Do yourself a favor if you haven't read the previous books, don't start here.
It's an okay series. I like the main characters, Lara and Aunt Fran. They're both strong, smart characters. The ghost ragdoll cat is an interesting touch and I loved the rescue cats. I didn't have a lot of sympathy for the murder victim, she kind of deserved her fate.
All in all, I enjoyed the series and look forward to more.
*I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book provided by the publisher, via NetGalley.*
I didn't realize this was the newest in a series until I starting reading and decided I was missing a lot of back story. I ended up getting the previous three books from the library and reading them first. Do yourself a favor if you haven't read the previous books, don't start here.
It's an okay series. I like the main characters, Lara and Aunt Fran. They're both strong, smart characters. The ghost ragdoll cat is an interesting touch and I loved the rescue cats. I didn't have a lot of sympathy for the murder victim, she kind of deserved her fate.
All in all, I enjoyed the series and look forward to more.
*I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book provided by the publisher, via NetGalley.*
August 14, 2019
Claws of Action by Linda Reilly is the 4th book in the Cat Lady Mystery series, and another great addition. Lara Caphart lives with her Aunt Fran in Whisker Jog, New Hampshire where they run High Cliff Shelter for Cats. The shelter has just added a reading room for the kids to snuggle with and read to the cats. Evonda Fray, the health inspector, makes a surprise inspection, and shuts down the shelter because they give away free refreshments. When Evonda is later found dead in her car, the sleuthing begins. Claws of Action is a fun book, and the mystery keeps you guessing until the end. These books always make me feel I'm right there in the shelter playing with the cats. I am looking forward to reading the next book in the series. If you love cats and cozy mysteries, this book/series is for you.
I reviewed a digital arc provided by NetGalley and Kensington Publishing. Thank you.
I reviewed a digital arc provided by NetGalley and Kensington Publishing. Thank you.
August 15, 2019
I love this series and "Claws of Action" did not disappoint. When a new health inspector is out to shut down the shelter and is found murdered the next day, things are rough for a little while. Well-written with characters old and new, I was captivated from the beginning. The book draws you in and keeps you hooked until the end. Now I'm eagerly waiting for the next book to come out. I highly recommend this book and the Cat Lady series which I recommend reading in order.
August 5, 2019
An engaging and clever addition to a charming series. I enjoy cats although I would be happier without the strange visions of one that provides clues. The main characters are kind, interesting people. The culprit was a surprise. Thanks to the publisher for providing a copy via NetGalley.
August 6, 2019
Fun read, great mystery. I enjoy the characters and their interactions. The town is nice as well, and seems to be a great small town. The new cats in each book are fun and I look forward to their adoption.
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for my eARC in exchange for an honest review.
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for my eARC in exchange for an honest review.
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