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Cat in the Attic #1
The Curse of Hollister House
How is one to start again after losing the one thing that speaks to your heart and fuels your passion?
After a serious accident leaves Calliope Rose Collins unable to continue with the career that has owned her soul for most of her life, she returns to Foxtail Lake, Hollister House, and Great Aunt Gracie, only to find, childhood friend, Officer Cass Wylander, knee deep in a murder mystery involving a twelve year old girl who died in the exact same manner as Callie's best friend Stacy had died twenty years prior. Callie is certain the two deaths must be linked, but Cass has a suspect in custody and the Chief of Police wants the case closed in order to get the mayor off his back, so in spite of the fact that Callie is certain that they have the wrong man, it looks like the case will be closed. Callie knows that she owes it to both victims to find the truth, so she decides to look into things on her own, giving her not only a way to fill her days, but a means of renewing her passion.
Join Cass and Callie, along with Alastair the cat, as they seek out the hidden truths that will allow them to see what no one else seems to be willing too.
After a serious accident leaves Calliope Rose Collins unable to continue with the career that has owned her soul for most of her life, she returns to Foxtail Lake, Hollister House, and Great Aunt Gracie, only to find, childhood friend, Officer Cass Wylander, knee deep in a murder mystery involving a twelve year old girl who died in the exact same manner as Callie's best friend Stacy had died twenty years prior. Callie is certain the two deaths must be linked, but Cass has a suspect in custody and the Chief of Police wants the case closed in order to get the mayor off his back, so in spite of the fact that Callie is certain that they have the wrong man, it looks like the case will be closed. Callie knows that she owes it to both victims to find the truth, so she decides to look into things on her own, giving her not only a way to fill her days, but a means of renewing her passion.
Join Cass and Callie, along with Alastair the cat, as they seek out the hidden truths that will allow them to see what no one else seems to be willing too.
239 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 3, 2019
1213 people are currently reading
430 people want to read
About the author
Kathi Daley
379 books1,785 followersKathi lives with her husband, kids, grandkids, and dogs in beautiful Lake Tahoe. When she isn't writing, Kathi likes to read (preferably at the beach or by the fire), cook (preferably something with chocolate or cheese,) and garden (planting and planning not weeding). She also enjoys spending time on the water when she's not hiking, biking, or snowshoeing, the miles of desolate trails surrounding her home.
Kathi uses the mountain setting in which she lives, along with the animals (wild and domestic) that share her home, as inspiration for her cozy mysteries.
Join me on Facebook at Kathi Daley Books (www.facebook.com/kathidaleybooks) for updates on my books, photos of life in Lake Tahoe, recipes, contests, and giveaways. For weekly updates and contests sign up for The Daley Weekly Newsletter (http://eepurl.com/NRPDf).
Kathi uses the mountain setting in which she lives, along with the animals (wild and domestic) that share her home, as inspiration for her cozy mysteries.
Join me on Facebook at Kathi Daley Books (www.facebook.com/kathidaleybooks) for updates on my books, photos of life in Lake Tahoe, recipes, contests, and giveaways. For weekly updates and contests sign up for The Daley Weekly Newsletter (http://eepurl.com/NRPDf).
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 107 reviews
January 18, 2021
I found this to be an interesting beginning for a new series. It introduced a new community and new characters as the mystery unfolded. It was a complicated mystery as it spanned over two decades.
September 17, 2019
In this first book of this new series Calliope has returned home, she was in an accident that took away the use of one of her hands and it will never be the same. Even though she is doing therapy on the hand she knows that she will never be the concert pianist that she once was and her future doesn't seem as bright. While taking some time to figure out what direction she wants to take she becomes involved in a mystery involving the death of a young girl. The crazy thing is the exact thing happened to her best friend when they were in middle school. Her friend walked home alone one afternoon and turned up dead not long after sporting some weird injuries, her case was never solved. Callie hopes that she can help figure out who the killer is and why they have returned. She feels guilty about a fight she had with her friend and thinks she has some responsibility in her death even though she herself was a child. Follow along as Callie takes a dip into the detective pool and feels her way around in a town that she left behind as soon as she could. Will she be able to find a killer or will the town be terrorized again? Will she figure out what direction she wants to take in her life? Will past friendships help her in solving this mystery and can they lead to new friendships? This was such a great start to a series it left me excited to see what comes next. I look forward to seeing what direction the author takes in the next book.
September 10, 2019
A brand new series written superbly by Kathi Daley. The main character named Callie Hollister has striven all of her live to reach the goal of a professional piano player. Finally heading towards that goal, Callie has it suddenly all taken from her by a drunk driver. She returns to Foxtail Lake, her childhood home of her Aunt Gracie's to recuperate from this tragedy. Callie attempts to find comfort in the attic, her favorite place when she was a child, nestled in the window seat with Aunt Gracie's cat Alistair. Having no idea what she was going to do with the her life now, Callie searches for answers.
I loved the well written story and the characters development was believable. Reuniting with former classmates and the towns people gave a small town feel. Written around Halloween season it added another dimension. I am looking forward to see where this series will lead.
I loved the well written story and the characters development was believable. Reuniting with former classmates and the towns people gave a small town feel. Written around Halloween season it added another dimension. I am looking forward to see where this series will lead.
January 15, 2020
Enjoyable first in series
September 12, 2019
The Curse of Hollister House
Cat in the Attic, Book #1
Kathi Daley
5 Stars
Synopsis:
How is one to start again after losing the one thing that speaks to your heart and fuels your passion?
After a serious accident leaves Calliope Rose Collins unable to continue with the career that has owned her soul for most of her life, she returns to Foxtail Lake, Hollister House, and Great Aunt Gracie, only to find, childhood friend, Officer Cass Wylander, knee deep in a murder mystery involving a twelve year old girl who died in the exact same manner as Callie's best friend Stacy had died twenty years prior. Callie is certain the two deaths must be linked, but Cass has a suspect in custody and the Chief of Police wants the case closed in order to get the mayor off his back, so in spite of the fact that Callie is certain that they have the wrong man, it looks like the case will be closed. Callie knows that she owes it to both victims to find the truth, so she decides to look into things on her own, giving her not only a way to fill her days, but a means of renewing her passion.
Join Cass and Callie, along with Alastair the cat, as they seek out the hidden truths that will allow them to see what no one else seems to be willing too. (Goodreads)
Review:
The characters are well rounded and well developed. I enjoyed getting to meet Callie, Aunt Gracie, Paisley and Cass. You could feel the love between Callie and Aunt Gracie, and you could tell how much they cared for each other. And Paisley is such a sweet child, and you cannot help but feel sorry for her. Bur with Callie and Aunt Gracie’s love, I am sure she will be alright. And she gave as much to Callie as Callie gave to her. I hope she makes an appearance in future books.
As is usual with this author’s writing, the setting drew me in right from the very beginning of the book. Her descriptive writing added so much to the book and took me on a fantastic ride. The mystery was well plotted and there were enough clues to sift through and suspects to consider. I was not completely sure of the culprit until it was revealed at the end, which is great with me.
I would highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a well crafted cozy mystery with a feel-good vibe. I am looking forward to reading the next one.
Cat in the Attic, Book #1
Kathi Daley
5 Stars
Synopsis:
How is one to start again after losing the one thing that speaks to your heart and fuels your passion?
After a serious accident leaves Calliope Rose Collins unable to continue with the career that has owned her soul for most of her life, she returns to Foxtail Lake, Hollister House, and Great Aunt Gracie, only to find, childhood friend, Officer Cass Wylander, knee deep in a murder mystery involving a twelve year old girl who died in the exact same manner as Callie's best friend Stacy had died twenty years prior. Callie is certain the two deaths must be linked, but Cass has a suspect in custody and the Chief of Police wants the case closed in order to get the mayor off his back, so in spite of the fact that Callie is certain that they have the wrong man, it looks like the case will be closed. Callie knows that she owes it to both victims to find the truth, so she decides to look into things on her own, giving her not only a way to fill her days, but a means of renewing her passion.
Join Cass and Callie, along with Alastair the cat, as they seek out the hidden truths that will allow them to see what no one else seems to be willing too. (Goodreads)
Review:
The characters are well rounded and well developed. I enjoyed getting to meet Callie, Aunt Gracie, Paisley and Cass. You could feel the love between Callie and Aunt Gracie, and you could tell how much they cared for each other. And Paisley is such a sweet child, and you cannot help but feel sorry for her. Bur with Callie and Aunt Gracie’s love, I am sure she will be alright. And she gave as much to Callie as Callie gave to her. I hope she makes an appearance in future books.
As is usual with this author’s writing, the setting drew me in right from the very beginning of the book. Her descriptive writing added so much to the book and took me on a fantastic ride. The mystery was well plotted and there were enough clues to sift through and suspects to consider. I was not completely sure of the culprit until it was revealed at the end, which is great with me.
I would highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a well crafted cozy mystery with a feel-good vibe. I am looking forward to reading the next one.
September 23, 2019
“The Curse of Hollister House” earns 5/5 Notes of Murder...Engaging Fun!
Wow, another excellent series! The mind of Kathi Daley is so creative, it blows mine! Calliope Rose Collins mother died in an auto accident, with her father, when Calliope was only four years old. Orphaned and deeply distraught, she is taken in by Aunt Gracie who shares with her the magical possibilities within the old attic and introducing her to music that becomes a life-long a passion. However, she suffers a crushing blow in another senseless accident, destroying her life as a concert pianist, and although physical therapy has been helpful, the severity of her injury has left her without the dexterity needed to return to her professional career. Adjusting to her disability, she retreats to the comfort of her childhood home and the arms of Aunt Gracie. But, a body of a young girl is found, and the details immediately sound eerily familiar. Like Stella Steinmetz. Calliope’s junior high best friend went missing, and sadly, her terribly damaged body was found in a shallow grave. The mystery has gone unsolved as a bear attack seemed to be the rushed conclusion. Now a new death, and accidentally finding an old newspaper report of another suspicious death, Callie feels “No way this is a coincidence.”
Kathi Daley’s writing style is always entertaining, descriptive, delving into more than the murder mystery with family, friendships, and a protagonist dealing with her own personal tragedies. She incorporates unique and fascinating crimes, cold cases are my favorite, and several suspects with motives to ponder. And in the end, the revelation was...intense! This first-in-the-series seems a bit longer allowing for more engaging, in-depth exploration of Calliope, her friendship with Stella, the other characters, their connections, and events happening during the fall season. My own memories were sparked learning Calliope and her friend had acted like young Nancy Drews solving several little mysteries like The Case of the Too-Salty Casserole. Calliope is reunited with a childhood friend, Cass Wylander, who is is now the investigating officer, providing her a close connection to law enforcement, staying in the loop, but not out of trouble. This is gonna be a favorite Top Ten series!
Wow, another excellent series! The mind of Kathi Daley is so creative, it blows mine! Calliope Rose Collins mother died in an auto accident, with her father, when Calliope was only four years old. Orphaned and deeply distraught, she is taken in by Aunt Gracie who shares with her the magical possibilities within the old attic and introducing her to music that becomes a life-long a passion. However, she suffers a crushing blow in another senseless accident, destroying her life as a concert pianist, and although physical therapy has been helpful, the severity of her injury has left her without the dexterity needed to return to her professional career. Adjusting to her disability, she retreats to the comfort of her childhood home and the arms of Aunt Gracie. But, a body of a young girl is found, and the details immediately sound eerily familiar. Like Stella Steinmetz. Calliope’s junior high best friend went missing, and sadly, her terribly damaged body was found in a shallow grave. The mystery has gone unsolved as a bear attack seemed to be the rushed conclusion. Now a new death, and accidentally finding an old newspaper report of another suspicious death, Callie feels “No way this is a coincidence.”
Kathi Daley’s writing style is always entertaining, descriptive, delving into more than the murder mystery with family, friendships, and a protagonist dealing with her own personal tragedies. She incorporates unique and fascinating crimes, cold cases are my favorite, and several suspects with motives to ponder. And in the end, the revelation was...intense! This first-in-the-series seems a bit longer allowing for more engaging, in-depth exploration of Calliope, her friendship with Stella, the other characters, their connections, and events happening during the fall season. My own memories were sparked learning Calliope and her friend had acted like young Nancy Drews solving several little mysteries like The Case of the Too-Salty Casserole. Calliope is reunited with a childhood friend, Cass Wylander, who is is now the investigating officer, providing her a close connection to law enforcement, staying in the loop, but not out of trouble. This is gonna be a favorite Top Ten series!
February 1, 2021
The Curse of Hollister House A Cat in the Attic Book 1
This is another. I love Kathi Daley books. She writes great mysteries and wonderful love stories. I have read over 20 of her books and everyone of them were great. I highly recommend all her different series and all her books. Diana Romano
This is another. I love Kathi Daley books. She writes great mysteries and wonderful love stories. I have read over 20 of her books and everyone of them were great. I highly recommend all her different series and all her books. Diana Romano
September 6, 2019
A Cat in the Attic Mystery : The Curse of the Hollister House
By: Kathi Daley
A Cat in the Attic Mystery is book one in a brand new series by Daley. The story flows smoothly and well written, the Character well developed. I was captured at the start and did not want to put it down. I was not disappointed. Can you ever go back to your home town after you have been gone for years and have not been back and everything still be the same. Callie left her hometown , lost her parents, lost her best friend , a curse on the ancestors of Hollister house, and trying to recover from an accident that left her with an injury. There seems to be a killer at large that is killing young girls. There are several suspects ,but the author keeps you guessing till the end.
By: Kathi Daley
A Cat in the Attic Mystery is book one in a brand new series by Daley. The story flows smoothly and well written, the Character well developed. I was captured at the start and did not want to put it down. I was not disappointed. Can you ever go back to your home town after you have been gone for years and have not been back and everything still be the same. Callie left her hometown , lost her parents, lost her best friend , a curse on the ancestors of Hollister house, and trying to recover from an accident that left her with an injury. There seems to be a killer at large that is killing young girls. There are several suspects ,but the author keeps you guessing till the end.
September 8, 2019
Loved this new series from this author; read in a day because I couldn’t put it down. I was hesitant at first because of the protagonist’s first name. I don’t know how it is pronounced so I didn’t think I would be able to relate to her. Luckily, she goes by Callie. 😂 Glad I gave it a chance and will definitely read more of this series.
September 12, 2019
Really love this new series. The characters keep me thinking who might be the murderer , because of so many chooses of good characters. The storyline had me thinking twice throughout the book. A must read.
February 26, 2024
A fast, fun read
This is a fast-reading mystery that pulls you into the story right away. Perfectly paced, with engaging characters and a plot that pulls you in
This is a fast-reading mystery that pulls you into the story right away. Perfectly paced, with engaging characters and a plot that pulls you in
November 13, 2020
Great Mystery
My daughter is blind and she loves for me to read to her. We found this book on Amazon and decided to give this author Kathi Daley a try. We are so glad we did! Kathi Daley is a great mystery writer! Her book was very interesting and fun to read. You will fall in love with the characters and will want to read all books in the series.
My daughter is blind and she loves for me to read to her. We found this book on Amazon and decided to give this author Kathi Daley a try. We are so glad we did! Kathi Daley is a great mystery writer! Her book was very interesting and fun to read. You will fall in love with the characters and will want to read all books in the series.
September 3, 2019
The Curse of Hollister House is the first book in Kathi Daley’s A Cat in the Attic Mystery series. The storyline flows smoothly, and Ms. Daley provides great background information about the characters in this awesome and delightful new series. The characters are well rounded and affable, and the mystery is well plotted. As with all her books, Ms. Daley has provided readers with a clean, fun read, with caring and compassionate characters, and an intriguing mystery to try to solve. I highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys reading well-crafted cozy mysteries.
Calliope “Callie” Rose Collins has returned home to Foxtail Lake, which is nestled in the Colorado Rockies, and is living with her great-aunt Gracie in Hollister House. Gracie raised Callie after she lost her parents when she was four years old. As a child, Callie spent hours in the attic, her safe haven, trying to adjust to losing her parents and dreaming of her future. It was in that attic that Gracie taught her how to play the piano. Callie, an extremely talented concert pianist, had her dreams shattered when she was T-boned by a drunk driver. Callie finds that the attic still offers her solace, and enjoys spending time up there with Gracie’s cat, Alastair, while she tries to recover both physically and mentally. When Callie learns that her childhood friend, Officer Cass Wylander, is trying to solve the murder of a twelve-year-old girl, she realizes there are glaring similarities to the unsolved murder of her best friend, Stacy, twenty years ago. A suspect is in custody, but Callie doubts he committed the murder. Believing the murders are linked, Callie approaches Cass with her concerns.
Calliope “Callie” Rose Collins has returned home to Foxtail Lake, which is nestled in the Colorado Rockies, and is living with her great-aunt Gracie in Hollister House. Gracie raised Callie after she lost her parents when she was four years old. As a child, Callie spent hours in the attic, her safe haven, trying to adjust to losing her parents and dreaming of her future. It was in that attic that Gracie taught her how to play the piano. Callie, an extremely talented concert pianist, had her dreams shattered when she was T-boned by a drunk driver. Callie finds that the attic still offers her solace, and enjoys spending time up there with Gracie’s cat, Alastair, while she tries to recover both physically and mentally. When Callie learns that her childhood friend, Officer Cass Wylander, is trying to solve the murder of a twelve-year-old girl, she realizes there are glaring similarities to the unsolved murder of her best friend, Stacy, twenty years ago. A suspect is in custody, but Callie doubts he committed the murder. Believing the murders are linked, Callie approaches Cass with her concerns.
September 5, 2019
Awesome cozy mystery
Kathi Daley never fails to entertain with her cozy mystery books. This is a new series set in small-town Colorado. Cassie Collins has been away from her home town for 15 years working as a concert pianist. When she is involved in a bad car accident and has nerve damage to her left hand, she decides to go home for rest and recuperation. Returning to her aunt's home, she becomes involved again with her former best friend, Cass who is a deputy in town. It seems another middle school girl has been found murdered under the same circumstances as Callie's best friend, Stella had been found 20 years ago. Callie decides to help investigate and she finds another young girl was murdered the same way 10 years ago in another close by town. Thinking that they all have to be related, Cass and Callie try to work out the probable suspects. When another girl is found murdered, they believe it is a copycat killing and Cass sets out to prove it. Will Callie and Cass find the killer or killers before they strike again? This is an awesome new series and I can't wait to read the next book in this series.
Kathi Daley never fails to entertain with her cozy mystery books. This is a new series set in small-town Colorado. Cassie Collins has been away from her home town for 15 years working as a concert pianist. When she is involved in a bad car accident and has nerve damage to her left hand, she decides to go home for rest and recuperation. Returning to her aunt's home, she becomes involved again with her former best friend, Cass who is a deputy in town. It seems another middle school girl has been found murdered under the same circumstances as Callie's best friend, Stella had been found 20 years ago. Callie decides to help investigate and she finds another young girl was murdered the same way 10 years ago in another close by town. Thinking that they all have to be related, Cass and Callie try to work out the probable suspects. When another girl is found murdered, they believe it is a copycat killing and Cass sets out to prove it. Will Callie and Cass find the killer or killers before they strike again? This is an awesome new series and I can't wait to read the next book in this series.
October 6, 2019
Questa è la quinta o la sesta serie di questa autrice che sto seguendo e ora ho serie difficoltà a dire quale sia la mia preferita.
In questa serie la protagonista Calliope torna a casa dopo che un incidente le ha stroncato la carriera da pianista. Si ritrova a passare molto tempo nel solaio, come faceva da bambina, in compagnia del nuovo gatto della prozia, Alastair. Proprio grazie a quest'ultimo e al suo ficcanasare nelle varie scatole presenti nella stanza, scopre alcuni indizi decisivi per risolvere l'omicidio della sua migliore amica, avvenuto circa 20 anni prima, e quello praticamente identico avvenuto poco dopo il suo rientro. Non guasta che a capo del locale ufficio distaccato dello sceriffo ci sia Cass, il suo migliore amico fin dall'infanzia (e forse qualcosa di più).
Ottima storia e bel cast di personaggi. Ah, la finestra che si vede in copertina è quella del solaio, dove Calliope ama passare il tempo seduta a guardare il panorama e riflettere.
In questa serie la protagonista Calliope torna a casa dopo che un incidente le ha stroncato la carriera da pianista. Si ritrova a passare molto tempo nel solaio, come faceva da bambina, in compagnia del nuovo gatto della prozia, Alastair. Proprio grazie a quest'ultimo e al suo ficcanasare nelle varie scatole presenti nella stanza, scopre alcuni indizi decisivi per risolvere l'omicidio della sua migliore amica, avvenuto circa 20 anni prima, e quello praticamente identico avvenuto poco dopo il suo rientro. Non guasta che a capo del locale ufficio distaccato dello sceriffo ci sia Cass, il suo migliore amico fin dall'infanzia (e forse qualcosa di più).
Ottima storia e bel cast di personaggi. Ah, la finestra che si vede in copertina è quella del solaio, dove Calliope ama passare il tempo seduta a guardare il panorama e riflettere.
September 10, 2019
Callie Collins comes home to Colorado after a devastating accident ruined her career. With the help of of her aunt, old friends and a new young friend, Paisley, Cassie is able to start turning her life around. The beginning of the book was sad to me and hard for me to get past. However, once I did, I grew to love this wonderful start to a new series. Through the author’s eyes I could actually see everything as she described it. I became a part of this magnificent book. I can’t wait to read the next book in this series!
September 30, 2019
A cat in the Attic Mystery !!
Kathi Daley somehow always brings out your dreamy younger self. Callie comes back home after a car accident injured her hand and her dreams of continuing as a concert pianist. Her childhood boyfriend Cass and a young girl bring her out of her shell. A cold case and new murders that mimic how her best friend had died 20 years earlier keep her and deputy Cass on the trail.
Kathi Daley somehow always brings out your dreamy younger self. Callie comes back home after a car accident injured her hand and her dreams of continuing as a concert pianist. Her childhood boyfriend Cass and a young girl bring her out of her shell. A cold case and new murders that mimic how her best friend had died 20 years earlier keep her and deputy Cass on the trail.
April 22, 2021
I struggled reading this book and I struggled reviewing and rating it. It's a well-written book, I just didn't like it. It didn't fit my description of a cozy mystery. It's too dark, too gloomy, I felt sad and a little down after finishing it. It's lacking the spark of hope and light that I've come to love in cozies.
Trigger Warning
The book started out strong. I liked Calliope and I felt for her when she lost her music. I also liked the side characters. Then the book started going sideways for me as the mystery unfolded. I didn't like the subject matter. I also found it odd that Cass (a deputy) was discussing every little aspect of the murders with Calliope.
I found the book slow and boring. I started skimming as the story dragged more and more. Then the author skipped over key elements of the story (more on that in the spoiler) and I was done.
Trigger Warning
The book started out strong. I liked Calliope and I felt for her when she lost her music. I also liked the side characters. Then the book started going sideways for me as the mystery unfolded. I didn't like the subject matter. I also found it odd that Cass (a deputy) was discussing every little aspect of the murders with Calliope.
I found the book slow and boring. I started skimming as the story dragged more and more. Then the author skipped over key elements of the story (more on that in the spoiler) and I was done.
July 31, 2020
A Cat in the Attic Mystery: The Curse of the Hollister House [Kindle Unlimited] — Kathi Daley (27 chapters) July 29-30, 2020
Trigger warning: there are some description scenes that may cause a traumatic reaction. None of the scenes are witnessed but described, include violent (nonsexual) acts against young girls.
This is a decent beginning to a mystery series involving a former performer, Callie, who was forced to switch careers and return home to her little town. Once getting there, she finds the murder of a young girl closely resembles the same characteristics as the one her best friend suffered when she was young. She gets interested in solving the crime.
It is not a bad beginning but is a bit average. I got the first three books in the series b/c they looked like fast reads, and also b/c I thought the cat would play a more predominant role in the book. The cat has had some interesting look-see moments, but it doesn't seem to be the main co-character. However, there are several other characters that are just as interesting, including Paisley, Cass, Gracie, and Naomi.
There are some spelling errors that I found, however, overall it is a decent read. Some Christian references, but not overbearing. I don't think I can call this a cozy, I classify it as a crime/mystery. The mystery aspect was unlike other cozies I've read.
Two stars.
Trigger warning: there are some description scenes that may cause a traumatic reaction. None of the scenes are witnessed but described, include violent (nonsexual) acts against young girls.
This is a decent beginning to a mystery series involving a former performer, Callie, who was forced to switch careers and return home to her little town. Once getting there, she finds the murder of a young girl closely resembles the same characteristics as the one her best friend suffered when she was young. She gets interested in solving the crime.
It is not a bad beginning but is a bit average. I got the first three books in the series b/c they looked like fast reads, and also b/c I thought the cat would play a more predominant role in the book. The cat has had some interesting look-see moments, but it doesn't seem to be the main co-character. However, there are several other characters that are just as interesting, including Paisley, Cass, Gracie, and Naomi.
There are some spelling errors that I found, however, overall it is a decent read. Some Christian references, but not overbearing. I don't think I can call this a cozy, I classify it as a crime/mystery. The mystery aspect was unlike other cozies I've read.
Two stars.
December 15, 2021
I have been reading another series by Kathi Daley so I decided to try this one. I really enjoyed this book even though it was about several murders. I am going to try the next one in the series and hope it is not as focused on murder.
Amazon synopsis:
After a serious accident leaves Calliope Rose Collins unable to continue with the career that has owned her soul for most of her life, she returns to Foxtail Lake, Hollister House, and Great Aunt Gracie, only to find, childhood friend, Officer Cass Wylander, knee-deep in a murder mystery involving a twelve-year-old girl who died in the exact same manner as Callie's best friend Stacy had died twenty years prior. Callie is certain the two deaths must be linked, but Cass has a suspect in custody and the Chief of Police wants the case closed in order to get the mayor off his back, so in spite of the fact that Callie is certain that they have the wrong man, it looks like the case will be closed. Callie knows that she owes it to both victims to find the truth, so she decides to look into things on her own, giving her not only a way to fill her days, but a means of renewing her passion.
Join Cass and Callie, along with Alastair the cat, as they seek out the hidden truths that will allow them to see what no one else seems to be willing too.
Amazon synopsis:
After a serious accident leaves Calliope Rose Collins unable to continue with the career that has owned her soul for most of her life, she returns to Foxtail Lake, Hollister House, and Great Aunt Gracie, only to find, childhood friend, Officer Cass Wylander, knee-deep in a murder mystery involving a twelve-year-old girl who died in the exact same manner as Callie's best friend Stacy had died twenty years prior. Callie is certain the two deaths must be linked, but Cass has a suspect in custody and the Chief of Police wants the case closed in order to get the mayor off his back, so in spite of the fact that Callie is certain that they have the wrong man, it looks like the case will be closed. Callie knows that she owes it to both victims to find the truth, so she decides to look into things on her own, giving her not only a way to fill her days, but a means of renewing her passion.
Join Cass and Callie, along with Alastair the cat, as they seek out the hidden truths that will allow them to see what no one else seems to be willing too.
October 31, 2022
A fun cozy mystery for Halloween, and the start of a new series. Though I purchased these books, I am just getting to them. I am looking forward to book two.
BLURB:
How is one to start again after losing the one thing that speaks to your heart and fuels your passion?
After a serious accident leaves Calliope Rose Collins unable to continue with the career that has owned her soul for most of her life, she returns to Foxtail Lake, Hollister House, and Great Aunt Gracie, only to find, childhood friend, Officer Cass Wylander, knee deep in a murder mystery involving a twelve year old girl who died in the exact same manner as Callie’s best friend Stacy had died twenty years prior. Callie is certain the two deaths must be linked, but Cass has a suspect in custody and the Chief of Police wants the case closed in order to get the mayor off his back, so in spite of the fact that Callie is certain that they have the wrong man, it looks like the case will be closed. Callie knows that she owes it to both victims to find the truth, so she decides to look into things on her own, giving her not only a way to fill her days, but a means of renewing her passion.
BLURB:
How is one to start again after losing the one thing that speaks to your heart and fuels your passion?
After a serious accident leaves Calliope Rose Collins unable to continue with the career that has owned her soul for most of her life, she returns to Foxtail Lake, Hollister House, and Great Aunt Gracie, only to find, childhood friend, Officer Cass Wylander, knee deep in a murder mystery involving a twelve year old girl who died in the exact same manner as Callie’s best friend Stacy had died twenty years prior. Callie is certain the two deaths must be linked, but Cass has a suspect in custody and the Chief of Police wants the case closed in order to get the mayor off his back, so in spite of the fact that Callie is certain that they have the wrong man, it looks like the case will be closed. Callie knows that she owes it to both victims to find the truth, so she decides to look into things on her own, giving her not only a way to fill her days, but a means of renewing her passion.
January 19, 2022
Callie, a concert pianist has had to move back home to her Aunt's house in Foxtail Lake after a dreadful accident which stops her pursuing her career. Her Aunt Gracie raised her after she was orphaned aged 4. Moving back home brings her into contact with many childhood friends including the boy, Cass, who she kissed in school, he is now the town's Deputy.
Her best friend is her Aunt's cat, Alastair, who she shares her secrets with, sitting in the attic of her Aunt's house.
When a body is found of a schoolgirl buried in a shallow grave, Callie is reminded of the death of her best friend in school, who was found in similar circumstances. She is intrigued, and when Cass is similarly concerned, they work together to find the killer.
A small town, cozy mystery series which I love and can see I'll be devouring the series at speed.
Her best friend is her Aunt's cat, Alastair, who she shares her secrets with, sitting in the attic of her Aunt's house.
When a body is found of a schoolgirl buried in a shallow grave, Callie is reminded of the death of her best friend in school, who was found in similar circumstances. She is intrigued, and when Cass is similarly concerned, they work together to find the killer.
A small town, cozy mystery series which I love and can see I'll be devouring the series at speed.
April 28, 2020
Callie returns to her childhood home with her Aunt Grace after having been struck by a drunk driver and could no longer perform as a pianist. Her best friend (and the foreshadowing implies soon to be boyfriend) Cass is a deputy in the local sheriff office. After a 12 year old girl is found dead, Callie and Cass realize the many similarities between her murder and the murder of their childhood friend, Stella. In addition, they uncover another similar murder. Together, they uncover the clues that bring them closer and find the true murder.
It was a slow read in that it didn't grab me. Yes, I wanted to know how the murder was but I found I didn't care about Callie or about Cass or their friends for that matter.
It was a slow read in that it didn't grab me. Yes, I wanted to know how the murder was but I found I didn't care about Callie or about Cass or their friends for that matter.
November 20, 2020
TW: child abduction and murder, unsolved murder, drunk driving accident, parental death, best friend murder
For me, this is not a cozy mystery. I don’t know what to categorize it but it’s a lot more dark and involving children to be cozy. It is a great start to a series about Callie who returns home to her aunt who raised her after an accident that ended her pianist career. She gets reacquainted with her friends and town and helps her former BFF law enforcement love interest solve 2 unsolved child crimes and 2 current ones.
Reluctant about continuing on with the series due to the crimes presented in this first one.
For me, this is not a cozy mystery. I don’t know what to categorize it but it’s a lot more dark and involving children to be cozy. It is a great start to a series about Callie who returns home to her aunt who raised her after an accident that ended her pianist career. She gets reacquainted with her friends and town and helps her former BFF law enforcement love interest solve 2 unsolved child crimes and 2 current ones.
Reluctant about continuing on with the series due to the crimes presented in this first one.
February 13, 2022
This is the first book in this series I have read. I love Kathi Daley's cozy mystery series (all but the Resort at Castaway Bay series) and this one is no exception. I'm also a cat lover--well, an animal lover really--but adding a cat to the series always makes it extra special. I liked the characters in this book and the plot had just enough twists and turns to keep me guessing almost to the end. My only objection to this plot was that once the killer was determined, the author seemed to tie up the conclusion too quickly. A few more details on how it happened would have been good. Still and all, I like this series and will be on to the next one!
February 19, 2020
I really enjoyed this book. Calli has lost her career and the use of one hand. She is finding the adjustment difficult and has returned to her home town , basically, to lick her wounds and feel sorry for herself. Through circumstances she finds that there is a young girl living near that is in need of a friend and some direction. While I will not tell you the ending, I will share that Calli does befriend the young girl, and that this act of shared friendship is beneficial to both of them. Enjoy the book.
April 6, 2020
I loved this new first in the series by Ms. Daley. Callie comes home to her aunt to recover from and accident and decide what to do with her life. While home a young girl is found dead in the exact same manner as her friend was found many years ago. Naturally Callie is drawn in to the mystery and helps her old friend Officer Cass try to find the answers.
The characters are likable and real. The mystery was excellent and kept me guessing, I also enjoyed Alastair the cat giving a little nudge in the right direction. I will continue on with this series.
The characters are likable and real. The mystery was excellent and kept me guessing, I also enjoyed Alastair the cat giving a little nudge in the right direction. I will continue on with this series.
February 16, 2024
This is the first in the series. The main characters are Cass and Callie. Callie comes home to Foxtail Lake after a car accident that ends her career as a pianist. She runs into a old friend Cass who is now the lead deputy in town. With his help she gets into working with dogs and then helping a little girl down the road with learning the piano , something she thought would never happen. Then they find a missing girl murdered just like her friend back when she was a kid. Now she is trying to help Cass figure out the murders. Can she figure this out before it's too late?
February 25, 2020
A girl would sit up in the attic with her cat. There, Callie would dream, thinking anything was possible. Years later, the dreams vanished and reality sunk in. With her parents gone, she lost the will to play, the will to live, the will to dream. At this point, this was getting winded and getting to be a real downer.
Then her aunt shows her the “magic” that can be found in the attic. What magic? Like real magic? Then the story ended up getting historical, making it very dull very fast.
Then her aunt shows her the “magic” that can be found in the attic. What magic? Like real magic? Then the story ended up getting historical, making it very dull very fast.
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