The Squeaky Clean Skeleton

Haunted Housekeeping #1

by R.A. Muth

Hi! I'm Tori Madison, and I hate scrubbing toilets, which is unfortunate because my BFF Hazel and I own Bubbles and Troubles, Blueberry Bay's premier cleaning service.When Mrs. Livingston asked us to sort through the contents of her attic, however, we thought our toilet-scrubbing days were over. That is...until we found her corpse.As if finding our client's body stuffed in a steamer trunk wasn't enough of an upset, someone needed to save her cat from being sent to a local high-kill animal shelter. That person, as it turned out, was me. I had no sooner set up the critter's litter box in my guest bathroom when he revealed another side. A six-foot-four, hunky, Irish side that only I can see.Before I could come to grips with my new feline friend's secret, Mrs. Livingston's relatives, eager to claim their inheritance, asked Hazel and me to solve the murder. And the amount of the reward was many times over what their aunt owed for the job she hired us to do.Soon we had a plan that included Rune, my new housepet-turned-houseguest. The more I got to know Rune, the more I wanted to confide in Hazel. But was I risking our lives by keeping my cat's secret as we went through with our crazy plan to catch a killer? Unfortunately, I didn't have a choice.

Genres: Mystery, Cozy Mystery, Paranormal, Cozy, Fantasy, Audiobook, Romance

198 pages, Kindle Edition

Published April 10, 2020

Reviews

[Montzalee Wittmann · Rating 5 out of 5]

A great paranormal cozy mystery!

The Squeaky Clean Skeleton by R.A. Muth is a great mystery that includes a cat that turns into a hot Irishman when nobody is watching except the main character. Its an easy, enjoyable read and I look forward to reading more from this author!

[Leeanne G · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a fun new cozy mystery series by Becky Muth under the pseudonym R. A. Muth, set in the fictional town of Cooper’s Cave around the fictional Blueberry Bay. I just finished reading a book by Molly Fitz that is set in another town around Blueberry Bay, and I didn’t know this place was shared by other cozy mystery authors.

The day after Tori and Hazel of Bubbles and Troubles cleaning service begin sorting through Mrs. Livingston’s attic they find her body - or more accurately, her skeleton - stuffed in a steamer trunk they hadn’t gotten to yet. Tori ends up taking in the late woman's cat but when she gets home she finds out he’s really a man cursed into a cat’s body. A man with the most wonderful Irish accent, I must add. For me, who has a fascination with different accents, this was the best thing about this book.

I did enjoy all the characters though, not just Rune. I’m intrigued to learn more about Tori’s history, and more about Rune’s too. The Ireland he once knew is long gone and I’m hoping the author will have him share some of the history of Ireland. It’s such an interesting country and culture.

The mystery was interesting and I enjoyed learning about Beach Plums, a fruit I'd never heard of before now. I look forward to reading more of the books in this series!

[Shawna Shaheen · Rating 2 out of 5]

I did not care for this series. A cat became human Rune. And if people like that kinda stuff it will be good. I mean so!e of the story made me laugh. But I probably will not read any more

[Laura LJ · Rating 4 out of 5]

✨✨✨✨
This was the first book in a new series for me and the first book from a new to me author. I believe it did not quite get everything explained and I figured out who did it pretty early on. I did enjoy the plot, the characters and the narrator was good. There are only three books in this series and yes I must read them both

[Kristina Anderson · Rating 3 out of 5]

The Squeaky Clean Skeleton by R.A. Muth has Bubbles & Troubles (a cleaning service), owned by Tori Madison & Hazel cleaning out Mrs. Christine Livingston’s attic. When they return for their second day of sorting, they find a decomposing body in a steamer trunk. There is also an adorable cat in need of relocation, and it has taken a shine to Tori. Alone at home with her new roommate, the cat changes into a hunky Irishman named Rune. Mrs. Livingstone’s relatives are eager to claim their inheritance, but they cannot until the case is solved. Tori and Hazel are hired to dig into the crime and snag a killer. The Squeaky Clean Skeleton is a cute cozy mystery with a unique cat. Hazel and Tori are friendly main characters. I wish the author had taken more time to establish the characters and develop them. They live in the small town of Blueberry Bay, Maine where everyone seems to know each other. I was not a fan of Gavin, Hazel’s brother, as well as a local police officer. He is a stereotypical cozy mystery cop who comes across as incompetent and a bully. I found his boorish behavior obnoxious. The mystery was straightforward, and the killer can be identified quite easily. I wish the mystery had been more of a challenge. Mrs. Livingston was portrayed as a not nice person, but there was no evidence to support this characterization. There are humorous moments in the story. There is a séance where Tori must don an appropriate costume. I enjoyed Rune and his story. He has a wonderful accent. The Haunted Housekeeping series has potential and I will be reading the next installment in this enchanting series. The Squeaky Clean Skeleton is a fun cozy mystery with cleaning connoisseurs, a stinky skeleton, a captivating cat, treasured trees, an impressive Irishman, a spooky seance and a careless killer.

[Jerri Cachero · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm hooked on Tori, Hazel and Rune's adventures! When Tori and her business partner Hazel, take a job to clean out the attic of a wealthy resident of Bluberry Bay - murder, mystery and romance ensue! Tori leans that the beautiful cat she finds, at the murder scene, has a shocking secret!

The characters were relatable, the mystery was fast-paced and kept me guessing. I love the character of Tori. She's straightforward, kind, smart and the kind person you'd want for a BFF! Rune the cat, is full of surprises and I love the paranormal nature of the book - not too much, just right! The book was set in the town of Blueberry Bay, which is home to several other cozy mystery series and the books are written by different authors.....what a fun way to keep the books connected!

I'm looking forward to the next book!

[Michelle Stagg · Rating 5 out of 5]

A cute read! I absolutely enjoyed it!

[Dotty · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great cozy mystery. Coming from a person that doesn't not usually ready mysteries that's saying something. I feel this book actually has 2 mysteries in it. let me tell you why. Tori and Hazel own Bubbles and Troubles a cleaning service. On day 2 of cleaning out Mrs. Livingston's attic they find a decomposed body. Then there is a beautiful cat. Tori takes it home with her but it turns into a man. So who is the dead body and how did they die and how did a cat turn into a man or did the man turn into a cat? We have Gavin the police officer who needs to go back to school for more training. Tori and Hazel digs into the crime. Grab the book and start reading.
I receive complimentary books for review from publishers, publicists, and/or authors. I am not required to write positive reviews. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255.

[Avigail · Rating 4 out of 5]

One of the tasks of a reading challenge I am taking part in is to read a book with bones on the cover. While browsing the Kindle Unlimited lists, I saw the book cover of The Squeaky Clean Skeleton. I was in the mood for a cozy mystery, and I found the audiobook through the Scribd app.
Yes, I am starting another series, and it's been a long time since I enjoyed a cozy mysteries series. The first book has potential, making me laugh in many parts.
I enjoyed all the characters, especially RunI'mI’m intrigued to learn more about Tori's Rune's histories. The Ireland he once knew is long gone aI'mI’m hoping the author will have him share some of the accounts of Ireland; it is such a fascinating country and culture.
I like the idea of a cat that transforms into a person because of a curse. I am looking forward to continuing with the series.

[Tari · Rating 5 out of 5]

I just loved this first book introducing besties Tori and Hazel, home cleaners whose goal in life, well at least Tori's goal, is to never have to scrub toilets for a living again. They were well on their way until murder happened to their client, so things were up in the air for a while as to whether they'd get to keep the job.

Rune is like... Best Character Ever! He's a great cat and lots more! I won't say anything else, so I don't spoil the fun for anyone! Hazel's brother the cop was such a jerk to Tori and always made inappropriate comments (which normally I'm sure they'd get canned for lol), but even the Grinch had a change, so anything is possible, right? I had no idea who the killer was, and it was definitely not who I would have guessed. I'm looking forward to reading the next book which I just happened to get on sale recently.

[Kav · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5

A fun cozy mystery with a paranormal twist : a cat who turns into human form (a hunky Irishman) when only Tori is around. Great repartee between the two, laced with hidden attraction and the promise of romance. I just felt that some elements of the mystery were rushed and explanations glossed over so there were some major holes in logic (not the paranormal side, the actual investigation results.) And then...the ending left me wondering if the series would continue on with the paranormal theme or morph into something else. So, not quite sold at this point, but it was a fun escape read.

[Mist Willingham · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wonderful

This book was adorable and made me nostalgic for my days on the East Coast. I can’t wait for the next one!

[shelly north · Rating 1 out of 5]

Do not waste your time

I read a lot. I am tolerant of new authors who are just getting the hang of writing books. All I ask for is a hint of a plot and semi decent writing skills. This book lacks both. The plot is lost quickly and the writing is barely above my sons 7th grade essays ( and he puts in little to no effort). Please stop now. Reconsider your life’s dream of becoming an author and decide that gardening, shopkeeping, waitressing or house cleaning might be a better career path. Don’t subject anyone else to your attempts at writing. It’s cruel and unusual punishment for those of us who like to read

[Liz Etnyre · Rating 3 out of 5]

Cute premise. Some awkward holes, a few inconsistencies, some unnecessary repetition, and not nearly enough questions asked (or answered) - but cute. Entertained enough to try for one more in the series. Hoping some of the not-first-book-murder-specific questions get answered (or at least asked!) in the next one.

[Elsbeth · Rating 4 out of 5]

The title may suggest otherwise, but this actually is a very nice book. Maybe a bit weird,with a cat/Irishman. It has some interesting and, most of them, likeable characters, a good story and latte with donuts! Who can ask for more?
Oh right, maybe a real coconut latte and donuts...

[Jennifer · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Squeaky Clean Skeleton by R. A. Muth is a wicked fun read with quirky characters and a lovely setting.
Will Tori and Hazel figure out who killed their employer or be doomed to scrub toilets forever?
Tori & Hazel
Victoria and Hazel are best friends who grew up together in Cooper's Cove. These two are the best of best friends. Hazel is married and has a beautiful relationship with her husband. Tori is a widow, and her ex-husband was a no-good cheat. Let's say that Tori is still dealing with the emotional baggage from that loser. These girls love coffee and food in general. So, totally my type of people. Oh, but these girls are also the curious type. Yep, they found the body and will figure out who the culprit is before Hazel's bullying older brother. Did I mention that Gavin is a Police Officer? Well, he is, and he isn't very professional. Although, he does care for his sister and Tori.

I like Tori a lot. She is smart, a bit shy, and loves to take care of people and animals, and you name it. Hazel is just as funny and intelligent. She has a healthy relationship with her husband and wants Tori to have one too. These ladies are hilarious, and the situations they get each other into are humorous.
The Mystery
Christine Livingston hired Bubbles and Trouble, Tori and Hazel's company, to sort and catalog her attic. The girls finish up on Friday, and when they return on Monday, Ms. Livingston isn't there to welcome them. Tori and Hazel decide to get to work and let their boss do her thing. But when they get to the attic, they find a skeleton in a steamer trunk with Ms. Livingston's hat on and a black cat. Hazel calls her brother, and things get a bit crazy from there. Hazel and Tori decide that they will have to find the killer if they want to get paid.

These ladies do all sorts of things to figure out what happened. My favorite is the seance. Who knew Tori could contact the dead and get them to talk?

The cat thing is a whole other thing. Tori adopts the handsome black cat named Rune. That is all I will say about that, and you will have to read the book to find out.
Five Stars
My rating for The Squeaky Clean Skeleton by R. A. Muth is five stars. I liked the mystery and the setting. I love Tori and Hazel. Gavin is a jerk who will hopefully grow up. Rune is cool.

I look forward to reading the next couple of books. Ms. Muth has a unique voice that resonated with me. I recommend this book to all you cozy paranormal mystery readers.


Other Books in the Haunted Housekeeping Series

Thank you for dropping by! I hope you enjoyed this review of The Squeaky Clean Skeleton by R. A. Muth.

Until the next time,







This review was originally posted on Baroness' Book Trove

[colleen the convivial curmudgeon · Rating 3 out of 5]

2.5

This one came up on Audible for "free", and I liked the idea of a cozy mystery with ghosts - which I assumed from the "haunted housekeeping" line, but there really isn't much in the way of real hauntings or ghosts, at least not in this first book.

There is some magic, though, specifically in the character of the cat. Won't say much more.

This was a cute, cozy mystery, but nothing to write home about, per se. I did like the 'cat' and hope to see a bit more of him in the future.

Gavin is intolerable. I mean, honestly, just awful.

The narrator is ok. I don't love her, tbh, but I got used to her while listening to the "Vampire Knitting Club" series, which she also narrates. Her two female main characters are practically unidentifiable as different voices, though, which becomes especially difficult since they have long conversations with each other. Luckily they refer to each other by name an inordinate amount...

The mystery itself was ok, though I have to wonder what the deal is with these cozy mysteries where the mystery isn't so much as solved as much as the killer reveals themselves in the end?

[Deanna · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow, I enjoyed this book more than I thought I would. I had hoped it would be a fun cozy and I was not disappointed. It was easy to read, fun, the characters are wonderful. I did not see the book ending like it did. It has a little bit of everything, friendship, mystery, romance and cats.

I just wonder where it could go from here if the author decides to continue the series, because, well if I were to mention it...it would be a spoiler. :)

I found this book after reading The Pet Whisperer series, and it was a recommended author for Blueberry Bay.

Toni & Hazel run a cleaning service, which includes homes and estates. They get a job at an estate cleaning out the attic of an extremely wealthy woman and her lifetime collection of antiques. They are helping by sorting through what to keep, what to sell, and what to toss. What they don't expect is to find a body!

[Ying_ko · Rating 5 out of 5]

An enjoyable story with a magical element. When Tori Madison and her friend Hazel take a job going through an attic of antiques they did not imagine that they would start on a Friday and come back on Monday to discover a skeleton in a trunk. On the other hand, Tori Madison did not expect to be bound to a black cat who happens to have been an Irishman cursed by the Fairies. Only Tori can see him in his human form. Hazel does not know about the dual nature of the cat-man. The three of them work to solve the mystery in a humourous mystery as Toni has to try to hide Rune's cat-man nature and solve the case before someone else dies. The plot is well written, the characters feel real, and the mystery is solvable. I recommend the book.

[Linda "Lilybug's Library" · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was going to give this 3 stars, but the more I thought about it, the more I decided on 4. The story was interesting and well done and I really liked the character of Rune, who is a "hot Irishman".

At first I was annoyed by the use of the word "wicked" over and over again, but it did slow down some eventually. So maybe there is hope that it will be even less in the next book. Other than that, the main character (Tori) and her best friend (Hazel) are both great characters.

I didn't care for Hazel's brother who is a police officer. He was very unlikeable, but he did redeem himself somewhat. I'm not sure I trust the quick turnaround of his behaviour, but we'll see.

I will definitely be reading the next one to see what I think.

[Cheryl · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the first book in the series. The main characters are Hazel and Tori. They own a cleaning service and get called to the mansion of Mrs. Livingston to clean out the attic. Things go ok the first day but after the weekend , it all falls apart. They find a body in the attic , at least the bones, and think it must be Mrs. Livingston. Call the cops and they are questioned but no one is still sure if the body is Mrs. Livingston. Tori ends up rescuing a cat at the mansion and the cat is bewitched and turns into a Irishman went they are alone and then back to a cat when anyone else comes near. They have to try and figure who the killer is. Can they figure this out and will Tori figure out the Irishman in a bottle ?

[Kandi A. Hudson · Rating 4 out of 5]

A Little Out There

I enjoyed this book mainly because it was so far out from reality that it was a good escape from one's daily cares. I can say I have never read a book like this before. The dialog was feisty, and the characters were quirky. I never did really understand how the murder was perpetrated for sure. I also was a little put off by all the typos, so this book could really use a good edit. That was the reason I have the book 4 stars vs. 5. While this book is the first of a series, it can easily stand on its own as well.

[Eileen Kiely · Rating 4 out of 5]

It was unusual and easy to read. The characters are funny and likeable. However the Irish slang used is a lot more modern than the late 19th century. Outside of this I would like to read more of the series.


This was a cozy but quirky mystery. The characters were funny and likeable. What I didn't like was that the Irish slang was a lot more modern than the late 19th century. I would still look forward to reading more of the series though.

[Louisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Cute Murder Mystery
Really enjoyed this read, haven't read this author before but definitely interested on reading the next book in the series.
Tori and Hazal are cleaners who are partners and best friends, their newest job is a possible chance at moving from toilet cleaning to Estate cleaning. A dead body of the women who hired them may threaten their plans for their future. Are they able to solve the murder. Tori has also adopted a mysterious black cat which maybe cursed are they able to break the curse

[Laura · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sure the book isn't perfect and the mystery was a bit ridiculous but overall this book was FUN.
I liked how the author tried to give it local flavor. I sort of wish Rune's secret would have been held over until at least the next book, but in a way it is.
The two "lassies" who make up the main protagonists are very likable.
This is a cozy mystery reader's sort of book, for sure.
The action keep a good pace, it isn't too graphic, and I had a great time enjoying it.

[Dot Morrow · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was the first book in this series for me and the first book from a new to me author. I enjoyed the cozy mystery was not sure who did it but there were a few people that could have been the killer. I'm hooked on Tori, Hazel and Rune's adventures! I just love Rune's story and how he got put in the bottle.
Great little book to listen to in an afternoon. Can't wait to read the others and see what happens.

[Amber Frechette · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wicked fun read

A job too good to be true turns deadly for Tori and Hazel. A new feline roommate isn't so bad though right? Unless said cat is a gorgeous cursed Irishman from the 1800's. A great story with a twist ending and hints to more adventures in haunted housekeeping I can't wait to read what the author has in store next.

[Kathy · Rating 2 out of 5]

Not a bad mystery and I might have given it three stars...if not for the very annoying use of the word wicked about every other page. There comes a point where you feel like you might scream if you see it again. I actually thought about going back through and counting every time it was used, but just couldn't face it. That and several editing mistakes brought this down to 2 stars.

[Myki Leaf · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed this book. One of those mystery murders with a hint of magic curses thrown in. A girl trying to find her way in life while also solving a murder. Throw in a slight bit of romance. I read this book really quickly. Now my only down fall is the romance part of this book was thrown in at the very end like it was an afterthought with no build up to help solve the curse.

[Rebecca · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’m Hooked On This Series

Two friends, who have a housekeeping business, stumble upon a body in the attic of a place they just started working at.
Who murdered the person and why?
You’ll have to read the book to find out.
I can’t wait for the next book in this series.