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Cat Lady Mysteries #5
The Girl with the Kitten Tattoo
The fur is going to fly . . .
Wedding bells will soon be ringing in Whisker Jog, New Hampshire. But instead of church bells, they may be tinkling above the door of Bowker's Coffee Stop. Lara Caphart's best friend Sherry and her fiancé David want to tie the knot where they met—in her family's coffee shop. Lara is overjoyed for her friend, but as she feeds and grooms the kitties at the High Cliff Shelter for Cats in her aunt Fran's Folk Victorian, she can't help but wonder when her own beau, lawyer Gideon Halley, will stop hinting and make their union legal.
It doesn't help that Gideon's old flame, Megan Haskell, just showed up with a tearful yarn about being fired that smells fishier than a can of tuna. But Blue, the Ragdoll cat who only Lara can see, appears to be on Megan's side. Should she ignore her green-eyed monster of jealousy in favor of her blue-eyed spirit cat? When Megan's ex-boss is found dead, Lara has to retract her claws long enough to follow Blue's uncanny clues and clear her rival of a murder charge . . .
Wedding bells will soon be ringing in Whisker Jog, New Hampshire. But instead of church bells, they may be tinkling above the door of Bowker's Coffee Stop. Lara Caphart's best friend Sherry and her fiancé David want to tie the knot where they met—in her family's coffee shop. Lara is overjoyed for her friend, but as she feeds and grooms the kitties at the High Cliff Shelter for Cats in her aunt Fran's Folk Victorian, she can't help but wonder when her own beau, lawyer Gideon Halley, will stop hinting and make their union legal.
It doesn't help that Gideon's old flame, Megan Haskell, just showed up with a tearful yarn about being fired that smells fishier than a can of tuna. But Blue, the Ragdoll cat who only Lara can see, appears to be on Megan's side. Should she ignore her green-eyed monster of jealousy in favor of her blue-eyed spirit cat? When Megan's ex-boss is found dead, Lara has to retract her claws long enough to follow Blue's uncanny clues and clear her rival of a murder charge . . .
250 pages, Paperback
First published May 26, 2020
About the author
Linda Reilly
16 books806 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 58 reviews
April 15, 2020
The Girl with the Kitten Tattoo is the 5th book in the Cat Lady Mystery series, and for someone who is not really a cat person, I very much enjoy the series. This book was entertaining and kept me engaged from the beginning. Lara and her Aunt Fran are great characters that are easy to like. I look forward to seeing what the author has in store for Lara in each new book. In this installment, Lara becomes involved in the murder of a not so nice man a few towns over, through an ex-girlfriend of Gideon's. She just can't help herself; when she thinks she can help justice prevail, Lara will do what she can. I don't find her to be particularly reckless in her sleuthing. She doesn't take what I see as needless chances and tries to be as safe as possible. This time around, I was a bit disappointed with Gideon's reaction to her investigations; a sure sign that these characters are portrayed in a realistic manner.
The mystery is well done with plenty of viable suspects with clues that point to more than one of them as the possible killer. The author did a really good job of weaving the mystery throughout the entire story and providing her readers with some nice twists and turns to keep them guessing. I did not realize the identity of the killer until the reveal and found it to be a clever resolution to the mystery.
I am looking forward to more books in this series. I voluntarily read a digital advanced reader copy provided to me by the publisher, Kensington, through Netgalley.
The mystery is well done with plenty of viable suspects with clues that point to more than one of them as the possible killer. The author did a really good job of weaving the mystery throughout the entire story and providing her readers with some nice twists and turns to keep them guessing. I did not realize the identity of the killer until the reveal and found it to be a clever resolution to the mystery.
I am looking forward to more books in this series. I voluntarily read a digital advanced reader copy provided to me by the publisher, Kensington, through Netgalley.
May 25, 2020
In this fifth book of the series Lara's best friend Sherry is getting ready for her upcoming nuptials to David her fiance. Lara is excited for her friend and looks forward to play her part in the wedding. With all this s wedding talk going on Lara begins to wonders if her boyfriend Gideon will ever pop the question. She knows she wanted to go slow and at one point made it clear she wasn't ready but enough time has passed since then for him to see things have progressed. When an ex of Gideon's named Megan shows up in town looking for him with a sob story Lara finds she's a tad jealous. Who is this woman and why has Gideon never mentioned her? After Megan's ex-boss dies and it turns out to be murder she is one of the first to be looked at as a suspect by the cops. She immediately runs to Lara asking her for her help in figuring out who killed him in hopes of clearing her name. Lara doesn't really want to get involved but finds herself looking into things anyway. Lara begins to investigate but the man seemed to have quite a few enemies. She starts with those closest to him in hopes of gaining some insight into the man and at the same time trying to pinpoint a killer. Follow along as she dives into her investigation at the risk of her relationship with Gideon, will this be the end of will they work things out and find a killer along the way.
October 2, 2020
Lara Caphart really does not want to be involved with solving a murder of a man that no one liked but for some unknown reason she feels pulled in to do so. On top of that one of the suspects used to date her boyfriend which has caused some jealousy problems. Now Lara needs to try and figure out the murderer and decide what to do about her rocky relationship with Gideon Halley.
I really like how this series brings awareness to animal rescues. Also, the characters are realistic and the mystery was tricky to solve. Thanks to Kensington Books and NetGalley for an ARC. The opinions expressed are my own.
I really like how this series brings awareness to animal rescues. Also, the characters are realistic and the mystery was tricky to solve. Thanks to Kensington Books and NetGalley for an ARC. The opinions expressed are my own.
May 29, 2020
Book five and I am still loving this series. Never would anyone expect to be stuck helping their boyfriends ex with a murder mystery, but Laura does just that this time around. She's sucked down a rabbit hole before she knows it trying to find out who did it and why and before she knows it she is helping to rescue a cat when it all comes crumbling down and she has to look for a way out.
Another great mystery that will not only leave you speechless and to who did it and why, but will keep you coming back for more. As always Linda Reily brings out the characters and settings so you feel like you're right there.
Another great mystery that will not only leave you speechless and to who did it and why, but will keep you coming back for more. As always Linda Reily brings out the characters and settings so you feel like you're right there.
May 12, 2020
The Girl With The Kitten Tattoo
Cat Lady Mysteries, Book #5
Linda Reilly
5 Stars
Synopsis:
The fur is going to fly . . .
Wedding bells will soon be ringing in Whisker Jog, New Hampshire. But instead of church bells, they may be tinkling above the door of Bowker's Coffee Stop. Lara Caphart's best friend Sherry and her fiancé David want to tie the knot where they met—in her family's coffee shop. Lara is overjoyed for her friend, but as she feeds and grooms the kitties at the High Cliff Shelter for Cats in her aunt Fran's Folk Victorian, she can't help but wonder when her own beau, lawyer Gideon Halley, will stop hinting and make their union legal.
It doesn't help that Gideon's old flame, Megan Haskell, just showed up with a tearful yarn about being fired that smells fishier than a can of tuna. But Blue, the Ragdoll cat who only Lara can see, appears to be on Megan's side. Should she ignore her green-eyed monster of jealousy in favor of her blue-eyed spirit cat? When Megan's ex-boss is found dead, Lara has to retract her claws long enough to follow Blue's uncanny clues and clear her rival of a murder charge . . .
Praise for Linda Reilly’s Mysteries
“I was kept guessing until the final chapter. . . . A perfect cozy mystery.”
—Susan Furlong, author of the Georgia Peach Mysteries, on Escape Claws
“Engaging characters, the psychic cat Blue, and the extraordinary healing power of cats are a winning combination for this enjoyable, heart-warming novel.”
—Kings River Life Magazine on Claws of Death
“I thoroughly enjoyed this puzzler of a mystery. Reilly cooks up a perfect recipe of murder and mayhem in this charming cozy.”
—Jenn McKinlay, New York Times bestselling author of the Hat Shop Mysteries, on
Fillet of Murder
“Smart, sassy, and a little bit scary. Everything a good cozy should be!”
—Laura Childs, New York Times bestselling author of the Tea Shop Mysteries, on Fillet of Murder (Goodreads)
Review:
The characters are well rounded, well developed and three dimensional. Lara and aunt Fran are such great characters, they love each other and would do anything for the other. Gideon was a bit of a pain in the rear in this book, he was not the great boyfriend that I thought he was. The secondary characters added a lot to the story. As usual, the cats stole the show and I just love the High Cliff Shelter for Cats.
The writing style flows smoothly and it defines the characters clearly through their actions and words. The author is very talented in her descriptive writing and these descriptions pulled me into the story from the very beginning.
The mystery was well plotted and not easily solved. There were enough clues to sift through and suspects to consider and I was very surprised by who the culprit was. I like when I am surprised.
I would highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a well crafted cozy mystery. This book and series is really top notch and I am looking forward to the next book already (I was sad when I was done reading it).
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book provided by the publisher, Kensington Books, and NetGalley, which I greatly appreciate.
Cat Lady Mysteries, Book #5
Linda Reilly
5 Stars
Synopsis:
The fur is going to fly . . .
Wedding bells will soon be ringing in Whisker Jog, New Hampshire. But instead of church bells, they may be tinkling above the door of Bowker's Coffee Stop. Lara Caphart's best friend Sherry and her fiancé David want to tie the knot where they met—in her family's coffee shop. Lara is overjoyed for her friend, but as she feeds and grooms the kitties at the High Cliff Shelter for Cats in her aunt Fran's Folk Victorian, she can't help but wonder when her own beau, lawyer Gideon Halley, will stop hinting and make their union legal.
It doesn't help that Gideon's old flame, Megan Haskell, just showed up with a tearful yarn about being fired that smells fishier than a can of tuna. But Blue, the Ragdoll cat who only Lara can see, appears to be on Megan's side. Should she ignore her green-eyed monster of jealousy in favor of her blue-eyed spirit cat? When Megan's ex-boss is found dead, Lara has to retract her claws long enough to follow Blue's uncanny clues and clear her rival of a murder charge . . .
Praise for Linda Reilly’s Mysteries
“I was kept guessing until the final chapter. . . . A perfect cozy mystery.”
—Susan Furlong, author of the Georgia Peach Mysteries, on Escape Claws
“Engaging characters, the psychic cat Blue, and the extraordinary healing power of cats are a winning combination for this enjoyable, heart-warming novel.”
—Kings River Life Magazine on Claws of Death
“I thoroughly enjoyed this puzzler of a mystery. Reilly cooks up a perfect recipe of murder and mayhem in this charming cozy.”
—Jenn McKinlay, New York Times bestselling author of the Hat Shop Mysteries, on
Fillet of Murder
“Smart, sassy, and a little bit scary. Everything a good cozy should be!”
—Laura Childs, New York Times bestselling author of the Tea Shop Mysteries, on Fillet of Murder (Goodreads)
Review:
The characters are well rounded, well developed and three dimensional. Lara and aunt Fran are such great characters, they love each other and would do anything for the other. Gideon was a bit of a pain in the rear in this book, he was not the great boyfriend that I thought he was. The secondary characters added a lot to the story. As usual, the cats stole the show and I just love the High Cliff Shelter for Cats.
The writing style flows smoothly and it defines the characters clearly through their actions and words. The author is very talented in her descriptive writing and these descriptions pulled me into the story from the very beginning.
The mystery was well plotted and not easily solved. There were enough clues to sift through and suspects to consider and I was very surprised by who the culprit was. I like when I am surprised.
I would highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a well crafted cozy mystery. This book and series is really top notch and I am looking forward to the next book already (I was sad when I was done reading it).
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book provided by the publisher, Kensington Books, and NetGalley, which I greatly appreciate.
April 2, 2020
Lara and her Aunt Fran run a cat shelter out of Aunt Fran's home in New Hampshire. There the resident cats have the run of the house while they wait for that special adopter. Except the ragdoll, Blue, only is visible to Lara, and then only at special times. Now Blue appears and seems to want Lara to help her boyfriend's ex-girlfriend, Megan, when she gets into trouble. If course, there are a couple interesting subplots involving other residents of Whisker Jog. Overall this is an exceptionally well done series with good plots, characters that you can become invested with, and interesting feline info. Whenever a new one becomes available, it goes straight to the top of my to-be-read list. Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
April 30, 2020
This is a series I have enjoyed from its beginning, and this cozy doesn’t disappoint. I love the little town of Whisker Jog and the High Cliff Shelter for Cats. The characters are demonstrated well through actions and conversations, and the mystery is fast-paced and exciting. The mystery, cats, and relationships are a perfect blend for a lighter-hearted cozy mystery.
Lara lives with Aunt Fran, in whose house they established the cat shelter. The cats have the run of the home, with special areas set up for adoption days and the wonderful program for children to come in and read to cats each week. What a great program for children to improve their reading skills while engaging with the cats!
Lara has been helping her best friend Sherry prepare for her Valentine’s Day wedding, as well as helping run the shelter and working on her projects. She is a successful watercolor artist. For the last couple years, she has been dating Gideon, an attorney she has known since school days. He seems close to popping the question.
Lara has a “spirit cat”, Blue, a beautiful ragdoll cat who was a playmate as a child. Since her return to Whisker Jog, Blue has been active again in the times that she needs special help, particularly when helping solve murders over the past couple years. Fran, Gideon, and Sherry all are aware of Blue but have never seen the cat who died on the day Lara was born.
Megan, a woman Gideon briefly dated a few years ago, came to see Gideon about a case she would like him to handle. The following day, she is at the police station for questioning after her ex-boss, whose birthday party she crashed the previous night, is found dead. Gideon stayed for her questioning but is relieved that she is going to have a criminal attorney she used to work with represent her. At least until she shows up on Fran and Lara’s doorstep.
Megan learned that Lara helped solved murders in the past and wants her help now. Megan and one of the shelter cats, Panda, take an immediate liking to each other. She even has a small tattoo of a cat with remarkably similar markings like Panda’s. Lara suggests that Megan’s attorney is the best person to help her, even though Blue appears, then disappears, while Megan is there.
Against her better judgement, Lara feels a pull to go to Bakewell, where Megan and her former boss lived, to see what she can find out about a couple situations from the dead man’s past. Gideon is upset, to the point where Lara fears for their future even as he is afraid of losing her. It has almost happened in the past when she was too close to finding murderers. Fran is concerned for her niece. While Lara isn’t doing it for Megan, she feels that she must help prevent something from happening regarding people related to the murder.
This is such a delightful, well-executed mystery! While I don’t believe in spirit cats, there have definitely been cats that I have been very close to while they were alive. I had an idea whodunit shortly after meeting the seemingly very likable person. I kept looking for the motive or person behind the killer. There were surprises and some terribly frightening moments! I was happy with the resolution and ending and am looking forward to the next in series. I highly recommend this to those who enjoy well-written cozy mysteries with cats, shelters, and fantasy.
Lara lives with Aunt Fran, in whose house they established the cat shelter. The cats have the run of the home, with special areas set up for adoption days and the wonderful program for children to come in and read to cats each week. What a great program for children to improve their reading skills while engaging with the cats!
Lara has been helping her best friend Sherry prepare for her Valentine’s Day wedding, as well as helping run the shelter and working on her projects. She is a successful watercolor artist. For the last couple years, she has been dating Gideon, an attorney she has known since school days. He seems close to popping the question.
Lara has a “spirit cat”, Blue, a beautiful ragdoll cat who was a playmate as a child. Since her return to Whisker Jog, Blue has been active again in the times that she needs special help, particularly when helping solve murders over the past couple years. Fran, Gideon, and Sherry all are aware of Blue but have never seen the cat who died on the day Lara was born.
Megan, a woman Gideon briefly dated a few years ago, came to see Gideon about a case she would like him to handle. The following day, she is at the police station for questioning after her ex-boss, whose birthday party she crashed the previous night, is found dead. Gideon stayed for her questioning but is relieved that she is going to have a criminal attorney she used to work with represent her. At least until she shows up on Fran and Lara’s doorstep.
Megan learned that Lara helped solved murders in the past and wants her help now. Megan and one of the shelter cats, Panda, take an immediate liking to each other. She even has a small tattoo of a cat with remarkably similar markings like Panda’s. Lara suggests that Megan’s attorney is the best person to help her, even though Blue appears, then disappears, while Megan is there.
Against her better judgement, Lara feels a pull to go to Bakewell, where Megan and her former boss lived, to see what she can find out about a couple situations from the dead man’s past. Gideon is upset, to the point where Lara fears for their future even as he is afraid of losing her. It has almost happened in the past when she was too close to finding murderers. Fran is concerned for her niece. While Lara isn’t doing it for Megan, she feels that she must help prevent something from happening regarding people related to the murder.
This is such a delightful, well-executed mystery! While I don’t believe in spirit cats, there have definitely been cats that I have been very close to while they were alive. I had an idea whodunit shortly after meeting the seemingly very likable person. I kept looking for the motive or person behind the killer. There were surprises and some terribly frightening moments! I was happy with the resolution and ending and am looking forward to the next in series. I highly recommend this to those who enjoy well-written cozy mysteries with cats, shelters, and fantasy.
May 5, 2020
The Girl With The Kitten Tattoo
Cat Lady Mysteries, Book #5
Linda Reilly
5 Stars
Synopsis:
The fur is going to fly . . .
Wedding bells will soon be ringing in Whisker Jog, New Hampshire. But instead of church bells, they may be tinkling above the door of Bowker's Coffee Stop. Lara Caphart's best friend Sherry and her fiancé David want to tie the knot where they met—in her family's coffee shop. Lara is overjoyed for her friend, but as she feeds and grooms the kitties at the High Cliff Shelter for Cats in her aunt Fran's Folk Victorian, she can't help but wonder when her own beau, lawyer Gideon Halley, will stop hinting and make their union legal.
It doesn't help that Gideon's old flame, Megan Haskell, just showed up with a tearful yarn about being fired that smells fishier than a can of tuna. But Blue, the Ragdoll cat who only Lara can see, appears to be on Megan's side. Should she ignore her green-eyed monster of jealousy in favor of her blue-eyed spirit cat? When Megan's ex-boss is found dead, Lara has to retract her claws long enough to follow Blue's uncanny clues and clear her rival of a murder charge . . .
Praise for Linda Reilly’s Mysteries
“I was kept guessing until the final chapter. . . . A perfect cozy mystery.”
—Susan Furlong, author of the Georgia Peach Mysteries, on Escape Claws
“Engaging characters, the psychic cat Blue, and the extraordinary healing power of cats are a winning combination for this enjoyable, heart-warming novel.”
—Kings River Life Magazine on Claws of Death
“I thoroughly enjoyed this puzzler of a mystery. Reilly cooks up a perfect recipe of murder and mayhem in this charming cozy.”
—Jenn McKinlay, New York Times bestselling author of the Hat Shop Mysteries, on
Fillet of Murder
“Smart, sassy, and a little bit scary. Everything a good cozy should be!”
—Laura Childs, New York Times bestselling author of the Tea Shop Mysteries, on Fillet of Murder (Goodreads)
Review:
The characters are well rounded, well developed and three dimensional. Lara and aunt Fran are such great characters, they love each other and would do anything for the other. Gideon was a bit of a pain in the rear in this book, he was not the great boyfriend that I thought he was. The secondary characters added a lot to the story. As usual, the cats stole the show and I just love the High Cliff Shelter for Cats.
The writing style flows smoothly and it defines the characters clearly through their actions and words. The author is very talented in her descriptive writing and these descriptions pulled me into the story from the very beginning.
The mystery was well plotted and not easily solved. There were enough clues to sift through and suspects to consider and I was very surprised by who the culprit was. I like when I am surprised.
I would highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a well crafted cozy mystery. This book and series is really top notch and I am looking forward to the next book already (I was sad when I was done reading it).
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book provided by the publisher, Kensington Books, and NetGalley, which I greatly appreciate.
Cat Lady Mysteries, Book #5
Linda Reilly
5 Stars
Synopsis:
The fur is going to fly . . .
Wedding bells will soon be ringing in Whisker Jog, New Hampshire. But instead of church bells, they may be tinkling above the door of Bowker's Coffee Stop. Lara Caphart's best friend Sherry and her fiancé David want to tie the knot where they met—in her family's coffee shop. Lara is overjoyed for her friend, but as she feeds and grooms the kitties at the High Cliff Shelter for Cats in her aunt Fran's Folk Victorian, she can't help but wonder when her own beau, lawyer Gideon Halley, will stop hinting and make their union legal.
It doesn't help that Gideon's old flame, Megan Haskell, just showed up with a tearful yarn about being fired that smells fishier than a can of tuna. But Blue, the Ragdoll cat who only Lara can see, appears to be on Megan's side. Should she ignore her green-eyed monster of jealousy in favor of her blue-eyed spirit cat? When Megan's ex-boss is found dead, Lara has to retract her claws long enough to follow Blue's uncanny clues and clear her rival of a murder charge . . .
Praise for Linda Reilly’s Mysteries
“I was kept guessing until the final chapter. . . . A perfect cozy mystery.”
—Susan Furlong, author of the Georgia Peach Mysteries, on Escape Claws
“Engaging characters, the psychic cat Blue, and the extraordinary healing power of cats are a winning combination for this enjoyable, heart-warming novel.”
—Kings River Life Magazine on Claws of Death
“I thoroughly enjoyed this puzzler of a mystery. Reilly cooks up a perfect recipe of murder and mayhem in this charming cozy.”
—Jenn McKinlay, New York Times bestselling author of the Hat Shop Mysteries, on
Fillet of Murder
“Smart, sassy, and a little bit scary. Everything a good cozy should be!”
—Laura Childs, New York Times bestselling author of the Tea Shop Mysteries, on Fillet of Murder (Goodreads)
Review:
The characters are well rounded, well developed and three dimensional. Lara and aunt Fran are such great characters, they love each other and would do anything for the other. Gideon was a bit of a pain in the rear in this book, he was not the great boyfriend that I thought he was. The secondary characters added a lot to the story. As usual, the cats stole the show and I just love the High Cliff Shelter for Cats.
The writing style flows smoothly and it defines the characters clearly through their actions and words. The author is very talented in her descriptive writing and these descriptions pulled me into the story from the very beginning.
The mystery was well plotted and not easily solved. There were enough clues to sift through and suspects to consider and I was very surprised by who the culprit was. I like when I am surprised.
I would highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a well crafted cozy mystery. This book and series is really top notch and I am looking forward to the next book already (I was sad when I was done reading it).
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book provided by the publisher, Kensington Books, and NetGalley, which I greatly appreciate.
April 8, 2020
I received a free copy of THE GIRL WITH THE KITTEN TATTOO (Book 5 of The Cat Lady Mysteries) by Linda Reilly in exchange for an honest review. Laura Caphart and her boyfriend Gideon are assisting Laura's best friend Sherry and fiancé David organize their upcoming Valentine's wedding. Wedding drama abounds. Sherry's struggling with her future mother-in-law for control over the nuptials, and Laura isn't sure she and Gideon will still be together by the time the bride walks the aisle. An old flame of Gideon's sparks conflict between the couple. Laura feels compelled to solve the mystery the old flame presents while Gideon heavily pressures Laura to leave it be. Though Laura tries to avoid involvement to appease Gideon's disapproval, clues keep popping up in unexpected places. When Laura's calling conflicts with Gideon's hang ups, will their relationship survive the newest mystery?
I enjoyed this book and like the series. I recommend this book to fans of the series. I recommend the series to fans of Linda Reilly and to fans of cozy mysteries involving small towns, animal shelters, and cat rescues.
#TheGirlWithTheKittenTattoo #NetGalley
I enjoyed this book and like the series. I recommend this book to fans of the series. I recommend the series to fans of Linda Reilly and to fans of cozy mysteries involving small towns, animal shelters, and cat rescues.
#TheGirlWithTheKittenTattoo #NetGalley
October 6, 2022
4 stelle e mezza
Credo che questo sia l'ultimo libro della serie perché negli ultimi due anni non è uscito altro e l'autrice ne ha iniziata un'altra. Peccato perché da gattofila amavo l'ambientazione in un rifugio per gatti.
Per quanto riguarda questo libro, la storia mi è piaciuta sebbene fossi un po' contrariata con la protagonista per ecrti suoi atteggiamenti, soprattutto nei confronti del suo boyfriend. Alla fine ho capito chi fosse il colpevole solo un istante prima che la protagonista si cacciasse nei guai: è pure uno di quei casi in cui sono dispiaciuta per chi è risultato colpevole...
Credo che questo sia l'ultimo libro della serie perché negli ultimi due anni non è uscito altro e l'autrice ne ha iniziata un'altra. Peccato perché da gattofila amavo l'ambientazione in un rifugio per gatti.
Per quanto riguarda questo libro, la storia mi è piaciuta sebbene fossi un po' contrariata con la protagonista per ecrti suoi atteggiamenti, soprattutto nei confronti del suo boyfriend. Alla fine ho capito chi fosse il colpevole solo un istante prima che la protagonista si cacciasse nei guai: è pure uno di quei casi in cui sono dispiaciuta per chi è risultato colpevole...
March 20, 2020
This has become one of my favorite series. I love the idea of an actual house being a cat shelter. Lara and her Aunt Fran are a great team and I appreciate how they give each other the space they need.
I will admit, this mystery stumped me, it was extremely interesting and the reveal took my breath away, I did not seen it coming.
I was angry at Gideon for a good portion of this story. I think that when that happens, the author has created an environment that is truly believable.
I will admit, this mystery stumped me, it was extremely interesting and the reveal took my breath away, I did not seen it coming.
I was angry at Gideon for a good portion of this story. I think that when that happens, the author has created an environment that is truly believable.
May 4, 2020
This is a well written book that hooks you on the first page. It's a clean cozy mystery that will keep you guessing until the end. If you love cats and mystery, you will love this book. So many kitties to cuddle with! I can't wait to see what this author writes next. Thank you Kensington Books via NetGalley for the ARC copy of this book. All opinions expressed are my own.
May 26, 2020
Being a crazy cat lady myself, I love this series. Well written mystery with lots of red herrings to keep you guessing. The mystery has twists and turns. The location of New Hampshire just adds to the enjoyment of this delightful cozy. This had a very interesting ending. Thanks to NetGalley for letting me review, all thoughts are my own.
May 5, 2020
This book was ok. I felt like the beginning was a bit disjointed, but it came together at the end. I never suspected the murderer. The reveal was interesting and explained so much of why it happened. I loved the cats. #TheGirlWithTheKittenTattoo #NetGalley
March 24, 2020
This is the 5th in the Cat Lady Mystery Series. Lara Caphart and her Aunt Fran run a cat rescue out of Aunt Fran’s Victorian home and she has a spirit cat named Blue who helps her out in her sleuthing. When her best friend Sherry is getting ready to get married she is beginning to get irritated and her own boyfriend Gideon and is hoping he will make it official. In the meantime his ex-girlfriend Megan shows up and is leaning on his shoulder about being fired and Lara is jealous. The fact that Blue seems to be on her side even makes her more upset but when Megan’s boss is found dead and she becomes a suspect she has to put away her jealousy aside and trust in her spirit Blue to lead to the clues and solve this mystery. I did not figure out who the killer was until it was revealed and I liked that. Good solid and engaging mystery. Good series.
May 26, 2020
The Girl With The Kitten Tattoo is the fifth 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, red herrings, and plenty of suspects to keep the reader engaged. The reveal came as a surprise to me. I recommend this book to anyone who enjoys reading well-crafted cozy mysteries.
Lara Caphart, a talented watercolor artist, moved back to Whisker Jog, New Hampshire to help her aunt, Fran Clarkson. Lara and Fran own and operate High Cliff Shelter for Cats, a unique animal shelter in their home. Fran and Police Chief Jerry Whitley enjoy spending time together, but she’s had to accept the fact that he’ll never love cats. 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. Fran, their shelter assistant, Kayla Ramirez, a vet tech student, and Gideon, are aware of Blue, but can’t see the cat who died on the day Lara was born. The relationship between Lara and Gideon Halley, a lawyer, has been progressing nicely, but her involvement in murder investigations is causing friction between them. Lara enjoys spending time with her old friend, Sherry Bowker, who owns and operates Bowker’s Coffee Shop with her mom, Daisy. David Gregson recently proposed to Sherry, and Lara is helping Sherry prepare for her quickly approaching Valentine’s Day wedding. Jealousy flares up in Lara when Megan Haskell, a woman Gideon briefly dated a few years ago, shows up in town. The next day, Gideon tells Lara that Megan is State Police Lieutenant Conrad Cutler’s prime suspect in the murder of Wayne Chancer’s, her ex-boss, mainly because she showed up at his birthday party, causing a scene and accusing him of all sorts of things. Megan, who learned that Lara helped solved murders in the past, shows up on Lara’s doorstep, wanting Lara to help prove her innocence. Gideon is concerned for Lara’s safety and doesn’t want her involved in Megan’s case, and while she doesn’t think it has anything to do with Megan, for reasons she can’t explain, something is drawing her to Bakewell where the murder occurred.
I received an Advance Reader Copy of this book from NetGalley and voluntarily reviewed it.
Lara Caphart, a talented watercolor artist, moved back to Whisker Jog, New Hampshire to help her aunt, Fran Clarkson. Lara and Fran own and operate High Cliff Shelter for Cats, a unique animal shelter in their home. Fran and Police Chief Jerry Whitley enjoy spending time together, but she’s had to accept the fact that he’ll never love cats. 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. Fran, their shelter assistant, Kayla Ramirez, a vet tech student, and Gideon, are aware of Blue, but can’t see the cat who died on the day Lara was born. The relationship between Lara and Gideon Halley, a lawyer, has been progressing nicely, but her involvement in murder investigations is causing friction between them. Lara enjoys spending time with her old friend, Sherry Bowker, who owns and operates Bowker’s Coffee Shop with her mom, Daisy. David Gregson recently proposed to Sherry, and Lara is helping Sherry prepare for her quickly approaching Valentine’s Day wedding. Jealousy flares up in Lara when Megan Haskell, a woman Gideon briefly dated a few years ago, shows up in town. The next day, Gideon tells Lara that Megan is State Police Lieutenant Conrad Cutler’s prime suspect in the murder of Wayne Chancer’s, her ex-boss, mainly because she showed up at his birthday party, causing a scene and accusing him of all sorts of things. Megan, who learned that Lara helped solved murders in the past, shows up on Lara’s doorstep, wanting Lara to help prove her innocence. Gideon is concerned for Lara’s safety and doesn’t want her involved in Megan’s case, and while she doesn’t think it has anything to do with Megan, for reasons she can’t explain, something is drawing her to Bakewell where the murder occurred.
I received an Advance Reader Copy of this book from NetGalley and voluntarily reviewed it.
May 14, 2020
THE GIRL WITH THE KITTEN TATTOO is the fifth book in the Cat Lady Mystery series by Linda Reilly. As in the previous books in this series, you can’t help but love and admire protagonist, Lara Caphart. She is one of the nicest people you’ll ever meet and I adore her close relationship with her Aunt Fran. Together they run High Cliff Shelter for cats out of their Victorian home. I particularly appreciate the tender care of the animals they shelter and find it heartwarming. The characters surrounding Lara, be they human or animal, are well-developed with individual personalities. Even the characters with flaws are realistically portrayed, including Lara’s boyfriend, Gideon. He annoyed me quite a bit in this newest book but I think the author stayed true to a real-life relationship situation. The tension between the pair added an emotional level which tied into the mystery.
While cats are at the top of the list for my allergy triggers, Ms. Reilly writes such sweet descriptive scenes of the interaction between Lara and their shelter cats that it makes me want to disregard the allergy side effects and adopt a cat for myself. From the adorable cover to the charming feline cast of characters to the fascinating addition of Blue, Lara’s Ragdoll spirit cat, the author crafts a well-plotted mystery that accurately captures the theme of a Cat Lady Mystery. I enjoyed how Blue seems to connect Lara to people who need help solving issues, especially when it comes to finding justice for murder victims. There were twists I didn’t see coming and I didn’t even have the killer on my radar. With a page-turning reveal, I was happy to see that all the threads of the story were woven together into a highly satisfying conclusion.
I was provided with an advance copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
While cats are at the top of the list for my allergy triggers, Ms. Reilly writes such sweet descriptive scenes of the interaction between Lara and their shelter cats that it makes me want to disregard the allergy side effects and adopt a cat for myself. From the adorable cover to the charming feline cast of characters to the fascinating addition of Blue, Lara’s Ragdoll spirit cat, the author crafts a well-plotted mystery that accurately captures the theme of a Cat Lady Mystery. I enjoyed how Blue seems to connect Lara to people who need help solving issues, especially when it comes to finding justice for murder victims. There were twists I didn’t see coming and I didn’t even have the killer on my radar. With a page-turning reveal, I was happy to see that all the threads of the story were woven together into a highly satisfying conclusion.
I was provided with an advance copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
May 2, 2020
5 Stars! 💛
This is the fifth book in the Cat Lady mysteries by Linda Reilly.
I just loved this book. I have to admit it gave me stress almost from the beginning. The distance I felt between Lara and Gideon was palpable. I think I was more worried about their relationship than I was whether she would solve the mystery.
The killer wasn't even on my radar. I wouldn't have been able to guess the identity since I don't think we were given enough clues to figure this one out. I think everyone, including Lara found out at the same time the readers did. And it was a shock for sure!
Basic premise: an old girlfriend of Gideon's seeks out Lara to assist her with solving the case of her murdered boss. The girl had no impulse control and mouthed off at the party where he was found poisoned. She has heard of Lara's success at solving murders and thought she was her only chance at freedom. This put her relationship with Gideon in jeopardy. The more she tried to step back from the case, the more the universe seemed to want to introduce her into difficult situations.
There was an interesting aspect to this story concerning a ghost cat named Blue. The cat never did anything significant but Lara took his appearance as a sign more than once.
Great story. Definitely a series I want to continue to follow. If you love cozy mysteries, add this one to your must read list!
I received this as an ARC (Advanced Reader Copy) from NetGalley in return for an honest review.I thank NetGalley, the publisher and the author for allowing me to read this title.
This is the fifth book in the Cat Lady mysteries by Linda Reilly.
I just loved this book. I have to admit it gave me stress almost from the beginning. The distance I felt between Lara and Gideon was palpable. I think I was more worried about their relationship than I was whether she would solve the mystery.
The killer wasn't even on my radar. I wouldn't have been able to guess the identity since I don't think we were given enough clues to figure this one out. I think everyone, including Lara found out at the same time the readers did. And it was a shock for sure!
Basic premise: an old girlfriend of Gideon's seeks out Lara to assist her with solving the case of her murdered boss. The girl had no impulse control and mouthed off at the party where he was found poisoned. She has heard of Lara's success at solving murders and thought she was her only chance at freedom. This put her relationship with Gideon in jeopardy. The more she tried to step back from the case, the more the universe seemed to want to introduce her into difficult situations.
There was an interesting aspect to this story concerning a ghost cat named Blue. The cat never did anything significant but Lara took his appearance as a sign more than once.
Great story. Definitely a series I want to continue to follow. If you love cozy mysteries, add this one to your must read list!
I received this as an ARC (Advanced Reader Copy) from NetGalley in return for an honest review.I thank NetGalley, the publisher and the author for allowing me to read this title.
July 29, 2020
A fun series for cat lovers! I absolutely love the shelter that Lara and her Aunt Fran have created in their home. The cats are all adorable and the read-to-a-cat program is a wonderful idea. In this latest book, Lara’s best friend, Sherry, is about to get married. Lara ends up running into an old girlfriend of her boyfriend, Gideon, and then the young woman becomes a murder suspect after her former boss is found dead. The young woman, Megan, comes to Lara for help, but Lara is reluctant to get involved. However, later she ends up going to the town where the murder occurred and keeps finding herself drawn there, much to Gideon’s dismay. The involvement of Lara in the investigation causes some issues for her and Gideon, but she can’t explain what keeps drawing her there. Blue, the cat that only Lara can see, keeps appearing and convincing Lara that she is supposed to do something. This book had some twists I didn’t see coming. I loved the wedding of Sherry and David and I can’t wait to see what’s next for Lara and Gideon as well as Aunt Fran and the shelter. Highly recommend this series, especially if you are a cat lover!
May 19, 2020
In The Girl with the Kitten Tattoo, Lara is helping her best friend Sherry plan her wedding, and one of the stops is a bridal shop in a nearby town. Conveniently, one of the shop's employees is connected to a recent murder and Lara finds herself getting pulled into her own investigation by several people connected to the crime. This is a well-written mystery and I was blown away when the culprit revealed him/herself. Aside from the murder and the upcoming wedding, Lara is still involved in the cat shelter she runs with her aunt, her art business, and her boyfriend Gideon. All these elements make for a well-rounded story and I really enjoy this series! I think this book could easily be read as a standalone, but I always recommend starting at the beginning of a series to get the full background on the characters and their stories.
I recommend this book to any mystery lover, or anyone who has a soft spot for cats. I already can't wait for the next book in the series!
I received an advance copy of this book. This review contains my honest thoughts and opinions.
I recommend this book to any mystery lover, or anyone who has a soft spot for cats. I already can't wait for the next book in the series!
I received an advance copy of this book. This review contains my honest thoughts and opinions.
May 10, 2020
Would you help your boyfriend's ex if she is a murder suspect? That's what Lara is thinking when Megan, who used to date Gideon, shows up at Bowker's Coffee Shop in Whisker Jog, NH. She's not happy about it but then Blue, her spirit cat (go with it) appears and Lara knows she has to become involved, especially after Megan also gets cozy with one of Lara's shelter cats. I'm a fan of this series because it features a great duo- Lara and Aunt Fran- and includes rescue kitties. The other characters, including Gideon and Lara's friends, are well done, the mystery is appropriately twisty (you know there's more than one suspect), and I like that there's a little not too twee paranormal aspect. Thanks to Netgalley for the ARC. This is a classic cozy and fans of the genre (or those new to it) will enjoy it either as part of the series or as a standalone. I for one am waiting for the next installment.
April 15, 2020
The Girl With The Kitten Tattoo started off slow but as the characters, Laura Caphart and her boyfriend Gideon find themselves in some romantic trouble the pace of the novel picked up. As Laura juggles running a cat shelter with her Aunt Fran, being a watercolour artist, and helping her best friend plan a wedding she falls into solving another murder mystery.
Linda Reilly created some great characters with just enough human aspects to become believable in my mind. I love that the main character, Laura, has an interesting twist in her amateur sleuthing but I wish I had known about this series earlier. As much as this novel includes plot points to catch up a novice reader of the series like me, I think following the characters arc would make more sense once I follow along from the start. This is truly a great read for anyone in love with cats, cosy mysteries, and budding romance for those quick evening reads.
Linda Reilly created some great characters with just enough human aspects to become believable in my mind. I love that the main character, Laura, has an interesting twist in her amateur sleuthing but I wish I had known about this series earlier. As much as this novel includes plot points to catch up a novice reader of the series like me, I think following the characters arc would make more sense once I follow along from the start. This is truly a great read for anyone in love with cats, cosy mysteries, and budding romance for those quick evening reads.
May 18, 2020
Cozy Mystery, Romance, and Cat Rescue!
What a wonderful story! This is the first episode of the series that I have read and I never felt lost. The author is very good at telling a new reader only what she needs to know. I know that I can go read the prior books without having them spoiled for me. Very nice! This story is so good! First is a wonderful upcoming wedding and the romance between our heroine and her lawyer love. Then, there is a great cat shelter they run from their home which truly socializes all of the kitties. Then there is a crazy murder that our heroine is called to get involved in and solve with the help of her spirit kitty. It all works and is not goofy at all. I enjoyed the story greatly and now want to read the prior books and any future ones. I received this ARC book for free from Net Galley and this is my honest review.
What a wonderful story! This is the first episode of the series that I have read and I never felt lost. The author is very good at telling a new reader only what she needs to know. I know that I can go read the prior books without having them spoiled for me. Very nice! This story is so good! First is a wonderful upcoming wedding and the romance between our heroine and her lawyer love. Then, there is a great cat shelter they run from their home which truly socializes all of the kitties. Then there is a crazy murder that our heroine is called to get involved in and solve with the help of her spirit kitty. It all works and is not goofy at all. I enjoyed the story greatly and now want to read the prior books and any future ones. I received this ARC book for free from Net Galley and this is my honest review.
April 22, 2020
I love this series and I loved this great addition.
The cast of characters is as likeable as usual and there's a lot of character development and new things happening. The cats are well written, sweet and realistic as usual.
The mystery is solid and the solution came as a surprise. It sometimes takes the backseat but in any way it's a secondary plot.
I can't wait to read the next instalment.
Highly recommended.
Many thanks to Kensington Books and Netgalley for this ARC, all opinions are mine.
The cast of characters is as likeable as usual and there's a lot of character development and new things happening. The cats are well written, sweet and realistic as usual.
The mystery is solid and the solution came as a surprise. It sometimes takes the backseat but in any way it's a secondary plot.
I can't wait to read the next instalment.
Highly recommended.
Many thanks to Kensington Books and Netgalley for this ARC, all opinions are mine.
October 20, 2020
This is a PHENOMENAL series!!!
Totally love each and EVERY book in this
series. This one was so intriguing and
intense I couldn't put it down. I love all
the different cats and especially Blue. I
just wish there was more Blue throughout
the story line. This series is most definitely
in my book of favorite authors and series.
Hope it's not too long until #6 comes out!!
Totally love each and EVERY book in this
series. This one was so intriguing and
intense I couldn't put it down. I love all
the different cats and especially Blue. I
just wish there was more Blue throughout
the story line. This series is most definitely
in my book of favorite authors and series.
Hope it's not too long until #6 comes out!!
May 30, 2020
Terrific book with Aunt Fran, Lara, Gideon, Panda, Sprinkles etc. Moves at the perfect pace, characters and situations clearly defined. Love the adoption day aspect and of course Blue
Thank you netgalley and the publisher for this arc
Thank you netgalley and the publisher for this arc
March 14, 2020
This was a good mystery that deftly wove together relationships and motives to create a web that unraveled perfectly at the end.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. I was not paid for this review.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. I was not paid for this review.
April 6, 2020
I enjoyed this book. I am still like the characters, the setting of a cat rescue in a house and the mystery kept me guessing. I did wonder about the MC and her behavior with her boyfriend.
Thank you to the author, publisher and NetGalley for my eARC in exchange for an honest review
Thank you to the author, publisher and NetGalley for my eARC in exchange for an honest review
June 21, 2020
Another Ballard Cozy Mystery Bookclub book. I liked it. There were kitties.. And tea and cookies...
May 24, 2020
The Girl with the Kitten Tattoo by Linda Reilly is the 5th 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. Lara's best friend Sherry and her fiance David are getting married in her family's coffee shop where they met. Lara is wondering about her future with Gideon, when his ex girlfriend shows up, telling stories Lara doesn't believe. The Girl with the Kitten Tattoo 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, or hanging out with my friends. 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 received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
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