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Cleo Cooper Mystery #1
Evil Alice and the Borzoi
Paradise is shaken when the body of a young woman is dragged onto a university research vessel during a class outing in Hilo Bay. Cleo Cooper is shaken when she finds her favorite student is on the hook for the murder. Danger lurks on land and sea as Cleo and her friends are enticed to search for the true killer. In between paddling, swimming, and arguing with her boyfriend, Cleo discovers all is not what it seems on the Big Island of Hawaii. But will she figure out the truth before she becomes the next victim?
- GenresCozy MysteryMystery
308 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 6, 2023
4 people are currently reading
26 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews
July 11, 2023
Thank you to the author DK Coutant, publishers The Wild Rose Press Inc, and Henry Roi PR, for an advance audio copy of EVIL ALICE AND THE BORZOI.
The is one of those cozy mysteries that surprised me a great deal. Honestly, I was drawn in by the cover. The last time I tried a cozy mystery with a dog on the cover, I absolutely loved it.
It took a little while for this one to really connect the dog on the cover, but I think it's clever. Additionally, Doucant paints a gorgeous, moody, decadent Hilo for the reader to prance around in. The cast is huge, but the characters have meat.
And besides that, the character work is excellent and I connected to Evil Alice, of all people. I mean-- how can she be evil if she's dead!? Well this book kept me guessing until the very end! A lot happens at the very end, in fact. I think Doucant saves a little too much for the denouement in this one.
So it's not perfect, but still a very entertaining mystery!
Rating: 🐩🐩🐩🐩 / 5 borzoi pups
Recommend? Yes!
Finished: June 19 2023
Format: Advance Digital
Read this if you like:
🔍 Mysteries
🕵♀️ Amateur sleuth
🏝 Exotic settings
🏋🏻♀️ Strong female leads
The is one of those cozy mysteries that surprised me a great deal. Honestly, I was drawn in by the cover. The last time I tried a cozy mystery with a dog on the cover, I absolutely loved it.
It took a little while for this one to really connect the dog on the cover, but I think it's clever. Additionally, Doucant paints a gorgeous, moody, decadent Hilo for the reader to prance around in. The cast is huge, but the characters have meat.
And besides that, the character work is excellent and I connected to Evil Alice, of all people. I mean-- how can she be evil if she's dead!? Well this book kept me guessing until the very end! A lot happens at the very end, in fact. I think Doucant saves a little too much for the denouement in this one.
So it's not perfect, but still a very entertaining mystery!
Rating: 🐩🐩🐩🐩 / 5 borzoi pups
Recommend? Yes!
Finished: June 19 2023
Format: Advance Digital
Read this if you like:
🔍 Mysteries
🕵♀️ Amateur sleuth
🏝 Exotic settings
🏋🏻♀️ Strong female leads
April 21, 2023
The plot is intricately designed. It
mesmerized the reader from the beginning
up to the surprising conclusion.
The writing style flows smoothly plus the
description is vivid and detailed. The book
takes the reader to Hilo which is located
on the east coast of Hawaii. The reader
will not only discover the location of the
land and sea but the beautifully flora.
The characters living in the community gives
the reader an array of colorful, entertaining people.
There is mystery, secrets, suspense, humor with a tad
of romance.
A page turner with twists and turns making this into a
titillating story.
I volunteered to read Evil Alice and the Borzoi.
Thanks to the Cozy Mystery Review Crew for the
opportunity. My opinion is voluntary and my own.
mesmerized the reader from the beginning
up to the surprising conclusion.
The writing style flows smoothly plus the
description is vivid and detailed. The book
takes the reader to Hilo which is located
on the east coast of Hawaii. The reader
will not only discover the location of the
land and sea but the beautifully flora.
The characters living in the community gives
the reader an array of colorful, entertaining people.
There is mystery, secrets, suspense, humor with a tad
of romance.
A page turner with twists and turns making this into a
titillating story.
I volunteered to read Evil Alice and the Borzoi.
Thanks to the Cozy Mystery Review Crew for the
opportunity. My opinion is voluntary and my own.
March 11, 2023
Excellent first in a new series!
Hawai'i is so beautiful and parts of it are described in detail. Diving can be treacherous and that is exactly how the murders begin. Who thinks of sequential murders in such an idyllic place?! Lots of fascinating characters (including the expected sexpests), two amazingly beautiful dogs, and the sadness that comes with a relationship failure. the suspense escalated until the amazing conclusion.
I just know that the next will be even better!
I requested and received an EARC from The Wild Rose Press, Inc via NetGalley. Thank you!
Hawai'i is so beautiful and parts of it are described in detail. Diving can be treacherous and that is exactly how the murders begin. Who thinks of sequential murders in such an idyllic place?! Lots of fascinating characters (including the expected sexpests), two amazingly beautiful dogs, and the sadness that comes with a relationship failure. the suspense escalated until the amazing conclusion.
I just know that the next will be even better!
I requested and received an EARC from The Wild Rose Press, Inc via NetGalley. Thank you!
July 11, 2023
This is the first work I have read by the author and it has fascinated me, her way of writing is very fluid and beautiful.
The characters are incredible, very charismatic, they make you want to read more, especially that the author includes those wonderful dogs.
I found the way in which the author shows us Hilo, which is on the east coast of Hawaii, wonderful.
Full of humor, secrets and shades of romance, this first book is brilliant, its twists will make you devour the book.
Valoración personal:
Obra en general: 10/10
Personajes: 10/10
Narración: 10/10.
Ambientación: 10/10.
Lo que me transmite a nivel personal: 10/10.
Valoración personal final: 10/10 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.
The characters are incredible, very charismatic, they make you want to read more, especially that the author includes those wonderful dogs.
I found the way in which the author shows us Hilo, which is on the east coast of Hawaii, wonderful.
Full of humor, secrets and shades of romance, this first book is brilliant, its twists will make you devour the book.
Valoración personal:
Obra en general: 10/10
Personajes: 10/10
Narración: 10/10.
Ambientación: 10/10.
Lo que me transmite a nivel personal: 10/10.
Valoración personal final: 10/10 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.
November 5, 2025
This is a great start to a new series. I love the setting and I feel like Hilo Bay is an extra character in the novel. It sounds beautiful apart from the murder of course! This cosy mystery takes a bit of time to get going but a lot of that time is setting the scene and introducing the main players.
Our main character, Cleo, is a bit of an outsider on the island and I think that helps the reader relate to her more. She’s clever and independent and takes it upon herself to try and solve the murder. This novel is full of humour and also tinged with sadness. I really enjoyed reading it.
Our main character, Cleo, is a bit of an outsider on the island and I think that helps the reader relate to her more. She’s clever and independent and takes it upon herself to try and solve the murder. This novel is full of humour and also tinged with sadness. I really enjoyed reading it.
October 2, 2025
Evil Alice and the Borzoi launched the Cleo Cooper Mysteries with a compelling blend of tropical intrigue and amateur sleuthing. Set against the lush backdrop of Hawaii, the story opens with a chilling discovery that propels Cleo into a murder investigation. The author crafts a solid protagonist in Cleo. She’s smart, relatable, and emotionally grounded, while surrounding her with a cast of complementary secondary characters. The mystery unfolds with twists and a whodunit storyline, though occasional stretches of dense narrative slow the momentum. A touching subplot involving Cleo’s dog adds emotional depth and warmth. Overall, this is a promising start to a cozy mystery series.
Want to read
March 7, 2025Author Coutant uses her inherent knowledge and experience of the Hawaiian Islands to her advantage when she created this intriguing story of mystery and suspense. Readers will dive into this one for its subtle flavors of the customs, practices and native patois unique to the area. Additionally, her seemingly innate talent at creating suspense is unmatched. We look forward to the next Cleo Cooper mystery.
Based on a scale of 1-5, Evil Alice and the Borzoi merits a 5.
Kat Henry Doran, Wild Women Reviews
Based on a scale of 1-5, Evil Alice and the Borzoi merits a 5.
Kat Henry Doran, Wild Women Reviews
July 3, 2023
DK Coutant's Evil Alice and The Borzoi A Cleo Cooper Mystery is one of those murder mysteries that counters the beautiful natural setting with the brutal violence and criminal activity. This is set in Hilo, Hawaii, the 50th state, known for its tropical climate, gorgeous beaches, scenic locations, and its frequent tourists. However, Hawaii also has a dark side which Coutant is not afraid to explore.
Cross-cultural psychologist, Cleo Cooper is assisting her boyfriend, Ben's marine research class when they discover something that usually isn't part of marine life or isn't supposed to be: a human body. The body is Alice "Ali" Bacunawa, an acquaintance of Cleo and Ben's, and the girlfriend of Ben's research assistant, Kai. Unfortunately, Kai is arrested for Ali's murder and Cleo and Ben are determined to solve the murder and prove that Kai is innocent. After all, they are almost 90% certain that Kai didn't do it.
What steals every moment in this book is the setting and Coutant describes it thoroughly. The day after Ali's body is discovered, Coutant writes "It was raining. It rained a lot here. Last year it rained 275 out of 365 days….Hilo rains were usually gentle and came in the early morning and evening as the trade winds pushed rain clouds up Mauna Kea as the sun rose and down the mountain just after dark. The waterfalls and jungles were worth the price of admission. On the occasional sunny day, Hilo was the most beautiful place on the planet.
Today was not one of those glittering days."
Yes, Hawaii is present in all of its beauty. There are plenty of moments of outdoor activities like studying marine life, swimming, canoeing, surfing, and catching some rays. The characteristics of many locals are also portrayed such as that many arrive on "Hawaiian Standard Time" (15 to 45 minutes late). They also use pidgin dialect and local colloquialisms for certain terms like "tita" for a strong willed, opinionated, take-no-crap-from-anybody type of woman or "Auntie" which could mean a blood relative or simply an older woman in someone's life who takes a maternal role, like a friend or a teacher. These characteristics help bring not only Hawaii's natural landscape to life but its people as well.
Being a murder mystery allows this book to open up and acknowledge the dark side of Hawaii, the one that tourists don't want to know about and the tourism and hospitality industries do not want to promote. According to statistics, Hawaii's poverty rate is at 10.9 percent and is one of the states with the highest cost of living. In 2019, 44,270 crimes were reported in the Aloha State making it the 10th state with the highest crime rate. In fact, Hilo itself has a crime rate that is 70% higher than the average and has 83% more property crime than the entire country.
All of these numbers give a dark and sinister look at a state that is often recognized for its scenic vacation spots.
This is what Evil Alice and The Borzoi isn't afraid to show, the dark and light or living in such a place. The killer waves and the drug use. The nature trails and the domestic fights. The fancy hotels and the poor people who work in them.
Evil Alice and The Borzoi explored the dark side of Hawaii so much that she reveals characters with understandable desires to leave it. That's how Ali is portrayed. She wanted to get out far away from her drug dealing family and hopeless situation. She wanted to go anywhere and by any means and those means may have gotten her killed.
While Cleo has grown to love Hawaii, considering it her home after moving from North Carolina, she also wants to travel to other places. Ben however has bought into the paradise ideal and has no intention to travel or leave Hilo. This is one of many disagreements that the two have had that are simmering under the surface like one of Hawaii's many volcanoes and is about to erupt. It wouldn't be a surprise that as the series continues, Cleo will be single-o.
Evil Alice and The Borzoi shows that inside every paradise, there is pain. It reminds us that for every beautiful postcard or Instagram shot exploring natural beauty, there may be someone suffering a few feet away from it.
Cross-cultural psychologist, Cleo Cooper is assisting her boyfriend, Ben's marine research class when they discover something that usually isn't part of marine life or isn't supposed to be: a human body. The body is Alice "Ali" Bacunawa, an acquaintance of Cleo and Ben's, and the girlfriend of Ben's research assistant, Kai. Unfortunately, Kai is arrested for Ali's murder and Cleo and Ben are determined to solve the murder and prove that Kai is innocent. After all, they are almost 90% certain that Kai didn't do it.
What steals every moment in this book is the setting and Coutant describes it thoroughly. The day after Ali's body is discovered, Coutant writes "It was raining. It rained a lot here. Last year it rained 275 out of 365 days….Hilo rains were usually gentle and came in the early morning and evening as the trade winds pushed rain clouds up Mauna Kea as the sun rose and down the mountain just after dark. The waterfalls and jungles were worth the price of admission. On the occasional sunny day, Hilo was the most beautiful place on the planet.
Today was not one of those glittering days."
Yes, Hawaii is present in all of its beauty. There are plenty of moments of outdoor activities like studying marine life, swimming, canoeing, surfing, and catching some rays. The characteristics of many locals are also portrayed such as that many arrive on "Hawaiian Standard Time" (15 to 45 minutes late). They also use pidgin dialect and local colloquialisms for certain terms like "tita" for a strong willed, opinionated, take-no-crap-from-anybody type of woman or "Auntie" which could mean a blood relative or simply an older woman in someone's life who takes a maternal role, like a friend or a teacher. These characteristics help bring not only Hawaii's natural landscape to life but its people as well.
Being a murder mystery allows this book to open up and acknowledge the dark side of Hawaii, the one that tourists don't want to know about and the tourism and hospitality industries do not want to promote. According to statistics, Hawaii's poverty rate is at 10.9 percent and is one of the states with the highest cost of living. In 2019, 44,270 crimes were reported in the Aloha State making it the 10th state with the highest crime rate. In fact, Hilo itself has a crime rate that is 70% higher than the average and has 83% more property crime than the entire country.
All of these numbers give a dark and sinister look at a state that is often recognized for its scenic vacation spots.
This is what Evil Alice and The Borzoi isn't afraid to show, the dark and light or living in such a place. The killer waves and the drug use. The nature trails and the domestic fights. The fancy hotels and the poor people who work in them.
Evil Alice and The Borzoi explored the dark side of Hawaii so much that she reveals characters with understandable desires to leave it. That's how Ali is portrayed. She wanted to get out far away from her drug dealing family and hopeless situation. She wanted to go anywhere and by any means and those means may have gotten her killed.
While Cleo has grown to love Hawaii, considering it her home after moving from North Carolina, she also wants to travel to other places. Ben however has bought into the paradise ideal and has no intention to travel or leave Hilo. This is one of many disagreements that the two have had that are simmering under the surface like one of Hawaii's many volcanoes and is about to erupt. It wouldn't be a surprise that as the series continues, Cleo will be single-o.
Evil Alice and The Borzoi shows that inside every paradise, there is pain. It reminds us that for every beautiful postcard or Instagram shot exploring natural beauty, there may be someone suffering a few feet away from it.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 5, 2025
Thoughts: There is a lot going on in this story.
The author wove a tale of mystery and family issues as well as the cultural aspects of living in Hawaii. I loved the imagery and interesting dialogue of the island. It’s obvious that the author must have lived on the big island for a time in order to give us such depth of flavor. There’s no way a mainlander would have done as good a job. I have visited other islands, but not the big on, but with the author’s descriptions, I felt like I was there. I will also say that she pulled on my emotions so much, that I sat here and cried during a couple of scenes (and no, I won’t spoil the story by telling you why). Just know that it was hard to read and I completely understood.
As far as the mystery goes, Cleo (the main character) is looking into the murder of a young woman, Ali. Her boyfriend—a friend of Cleo and her husband’s TA—has been accused of the murder. But everyone who knows him knows he couldn’t have done it. So who did? There are a lot of leads since Ali’s background included drug dealing and her family isn’t exactly the best. But the police don’t want to hear Cleo’s theories. And there are plenty of other suspects as well—a shady professor, a jealous woman, another man in Ali’s life…and more.
While Cleo is trying to solve the mystery, she’s also trying to help her dog Suki, and train Ali’s large puppy (the borzoi). And save her relationship with her husband that has become strained. There is so much going on here, it almost felt like three stories in one—the murder mystery, the dogs, and Cleo’s romantic life. But the author does a decent job of weaving them all together. Unfortunately for me, there wasn’t quite the neat tie-up at the end. Oh, we do find out who the murderer is (and for a change, it wasn’t who I thought!), and the dogs’ story is taken care of, but Cleo’s is not. So I’ll assume that is left for later stories.
Recommended.
Disclosure of Material: I received a final and/or advanced reader copy of this book from Zeitgeist (Penguin Random House) with the hope that I will leave my unbiased opinion. I was not required to leave a review, positive or otherwise, and my opinions are just that… My Opinions. I am posting this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”
The author wove a tale of mystery and family issues as well as the cultural aspects of living in Hawaii. I loved the imagery and interesting dialogue of the island. It’s obvious that the author must have lived on the big island for a time in order to give us such depth of flavor. There’s no way a mainlander would have done as good a job. I have visited other islands, but not the big on, but with the author’s descriptions, I felt like I was there. I will also say that she pulled on my emotions so much, that I sat here and cried during a couple of scenes (and no, I won’t spoil the story by telling you why). Just know that it was hard to read and I completely understood.
As far as the mystery goes, Cleo (the main character) is looking into the murder of a young woman, Ali. Her boyfriend—a friend of Cleo and her husband’s TA—has been accused of the murder. But everyone who knows him knows he couldn’t have done it. So who did? There are a lot of leads since Ali’s background included drug dealing and her family isn’t exactly the best. But the police don’t want to hear Cleo’s theories. And there are plenty of other suspects as well—a shady professor, a jealous woman, another man in Ali’s life…and more.
While Cleo is trying to solve the mystery, she’s also trying to help her dog Suki, and train Ali’s large puppy (the borzoi). And save her relationship with her husband that has become strained. There is so much going on here, it almost felt like three stories in one—the murder mystery, the dogs, and Cleo’s romantic life. But the author does a decent job of weaving them all together. Unfortunately for me, there wasn’t quite the neat tie-up at the end. Oh, we do find out who the murderer is (and for a change, it wasn’t who I thought!), and the dogs’ story is taken care of, but Cleo’s is not. So I’ll assume that is left for later stories.
Recommended.
Disclosure of Material: I received a final and/or advanced reader copy of this book from Zeitgeist (Penguin Random House) with the hope that I will leave my unbiased opinion. I was not required to leave a review, positive or otherwise, and my opinions are just that… My Opinions. I am posting this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”
July 11, 2023
My Rating: 🌕🌕🌕🌕🌑
Cleo Cooper is a professor of psychology at the University of Hawaii at Hilo. She has moved to the island from the mainland and has found love and peace there. However, when she and her boyfriend fish out a corpse from the sea on one of their marine trips, she's thrown into the middle of a murder that she does not want to be a part of. But promises must be kept, and she takes up the challenge to find the killer, especially since the police are intent on pinning the murder on the boyfriend of the murdered girl, and Cleo is certain that he is innocent. But is it so easy to find a killer when her own life is thrown into many uncertainties and complications.
I loved the book. Apart from being a clean murder mystery, it also explores the complexities of needs, relationships, and friendships. I loved the character of Cleo, and especially connected with her since I'm also a PhD scholar and have seen the corners and niches of an academic life. I liked the way she handled her relationship with her boyfriend Ben, while maintaining her friends and her career. I especially liked her strength of character, and how she took her 'me time' in the middle of all her work.
The mystery itself was well paced and the ending was not too obvious. Although I had an inkling of the murderer at about 70% through the story, the end still bound the loose strings and answered all the questions.
I also loved how this book explored the life and culture of Hawaii. I not only caught a glimpse of the colourful life there, but also understood the community values observed there. This brought the story closer to my heart.
I would definitely recommend this book to all lovers of murder mysteries and whodunnits.
Thanks to the author and tide.phoenix.coffee for this gifted ARC. I've written this honest review of my own volition.
Cleo Cooper is a professor of psychology at the University of Hawaii at Hilo. She has moved to the island from the mainland and has found love and peace there. However, when she and her boyfriend fish out a corpse from the sea on one of their marine trips, she's thrown into the middle of a murder that she does not want to be a part of. But promises must be kept, and she takes up the challenge to find the killer, especially since the police are intent on pinning the murder on the boyfriend of the murdered girl, and Cleo is certain that he is innocent. But is it so easy to find a killer when her own life is thrown into many uncertainties and complications.
I loved the book. Apart from being a clean murder mystery, it also explores the complexities of needs, relationships, and friendships. I loved the character of Cleo, and especially connected with her since I'm also a PhD scholar and have seen the corners and niches of an academic life. I liked the way she handled her relationship with her boyfriend Ben, while maintaining her friends and her career. I especially liked her strength of character, and how she took her 'me time' in the middle of all her work.
The mystery itself was well paced and the ending was not too obvious. Although I had an inkling of the murderer at about 70% through the story, the end still bound the loose strings and answered all the questions.
I also loved how this book explored the life and culture of Hawaii. I not only caught a glimpse of the colourful life there, but also understood the community values observed there. This brought the story closer to my heart.
I would definitely recommend this book to all lovers of murder mysteries and whodunnits.
Thanks to the author and tide.phoenix.coffee for this gifted ARC. I've written this honest review of my own volition.
April 1, 2023
Get read for sun, surf, and murder in Evil Alice and the Borzoi. With a gorgeous setting like Hawaii, who would even think about killing someone? A tropical setting, deep descriptive narration, a heroine you can’t help but adore, and a mystery to solve…it’s a dream vacation for mystery readers.
Let’s kick things off with the descriptive narration. This author knows the ins and outs of living in Hawaii. Every aspect is poignantly described. It adds such depth to the plot. It also pulls the reader in so they feel like they’ve gone to Hawaii. Really impressive.
The characters are diverse and very expressive. The cast of characters is large, and the suspect list is even larger. It took me quite a bit of concentration to keep everyone straight. Cleo, however, is a delight. I connected with her on so many levels. Watching her detect while trying to stay ahead of the killer made for an enjoyable read.
The plot moves at a good pace. The writing is immersive. DK Coutant’s strength comes from her ability to entice the reader through narration and world-building.
If you love a good mystery set in a tropical locale, you’ve got to read this book. I recommend this to mystery readers and those readers looking for an escape.
Disclaimer: I received a copy from the author in the hopes I'd review it. My thoughts are all my own.
My Rating: 5 stars
Reviewed by: Nancy
This review first appeared: https://www.nnlightsbookheaven.com/po...
Let’s kick things off with the descriptive narration. This author knows the ins and outs of living in Hawaii. Every aspect is poignantly described. It adds such depth to the plot. It also pulls the reader in so they feel like they’ve gone to Hawaii. Really impressive.
The characters are diverse and very expressive. The cast of characters is large, and the suspect list is even larger. It took me quite a bit of concentration to keep everyone straight. Cleo, however, is a delight. I connected with her on so many levels. Watching her detect while trying to stay ahead of the killer made for an enjoyable read.
The plot moves at a good pace. The writing is immersive. DK Coutant’s strength comes from her ability to entice the reader through narration and world-building.
If you love a good mystery set in a tropical locale, you’ve got to read this book. I recommend this to mystery readers and those readers looking for an escape.
Disclaimer: I received a copy from the author in the hopes I'd review it. My thoughts are all my own.
My Rating: 5 stars
Reviewed by: Nancy
This review first appeared: https://www.nnlightsbookheaven.com/po...
May 16, 2023
#ad #pr I received a gifted copy of this book and leave this review of my own accord. Thanks @wildrosepress and the author.
This book takes readers on a thrilling journey to the beautiful island of Hawaii, where Cleo Cooper, a university professor, finds herself entangled in a murder investigation. The tranquility of Paradise is shattered when a young woman’s body is discovered on a research vessel during a class outing in Hilo Bay. To Cleo’s dismay, her favorite student becomes the prime suspect, prompting her to embark on a quest to uncover the true killer.
The book builds suspense, keeping readers engaged as danger lurks both on land and at sea. High tension and a palpable sense of unease captivate readers as each twist and turn is uncovered. The enticing blend of mystery, adventure, and romance adds an exciting dimension to the story, ensuring that readers remain thoroughly absorbed.
Amidst the backdrop of the idyllic Hawaiian setting, the author skillfully weaves together moments of leisure, such as paddling, swimming, and relationship dynamics, with the urgency of the murder investigation. This balance adds depth to the narrative, offering readers a multifaceted reading experience. This is a book you are sure to enjoy, as
I’m not usually a reader of cozy mystery I enjoyed this book..
I would definitely recommend this book to anyone who enjoys light mysteries with interesting plots that aren’t too difficult to follow or understand.
This book takes readers on a thrilling journey to the beautiful island of Hawaii, where Cleo Cooper, a university professor, finds herself entangled in a murder investigation. The tranquility of Paradise is shattered when a young woman’s body is discovered on a research vessel during a class outing in Hilo Bay. To Cleo’s dismay, her favorite student becomes the prime suspect, prompting her to embark on a quest to uncover the true killer.
The book builds suspense, keeping readers engaged as danger lurks both on land and at sea. High tension and a palpable sense of unease captivate readers as each twist and turn is uncovered. The enticing blend of mystery, adventure, and romance adds an exciting dimension to the story, ensuring that readers remain thoroughly absorbed.
Amidst the backdrop of the idyllic Hawaiian setting, the author skillfully weaves together moments of leisure, such as paddling, swimming, and relationship dynamics, with the urgency of the murder investigation. This balance adds depth to the narrative, offering readers a multifaceted reading experience. This is a book you are sure to enjoy, as
I’m not usually a reader of cozy mystery I enjoyed this book..
I would definitely recommend this book to anyone who enjoys light mysteries with interesting plots that aren’t too difficult to follow or understand.
November 7, 2025
This is an enjoyable start to a new to me cozy mystery series. When the body of a former student, Alice, is caught in the nets of a research vessel Cleo and her partner Ben are drawn in to figuring out what happened to her. She was terrified of scuba diving and yet it appears she was scuba diving. Was it an accident or something more sinister? Cleo, a psychology professor living and teaching in Hilo, Hawaii is the likeable main character. She is trying to build her career and relationships with an eye to the future. I liked her intelligence, determination to learn, and how psychology is seamlessly woven into the story. Her partner Ben is a professor of Marine Biology and I was frustrated with the way he handled the situation and his relationship with Cleo. Cleo’s friends are interesting and their connections and relationships are central to solving the mystery. Animal lovers will be drawn to this story as Cleo’s dog Suki and Alice’s Borzoi puppy Bella are a large part of it. In fact Bella plays a key role in solving the mystery. The setting, Hilo, Hawaii is beautiful and the inclusion of information about Hawaii and the Hawaiian culture is fascinating and plays a role in the mystery. I enjoyed this book and I want more time with Cleo and to see what happens next in her life. I recommend this book to readers that enjoy cozy mysteries that weave in psychology and culture.
Thanks to the author and Love Book Tours for the gifted copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Thanks to the author and Love Book Tours for the gifted copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
April 15, 2023
Didn’t find this book as enjoyable I thought it would be. This book is more than 300 pages and could have been reduced by quiet a few pages. The mystery was set up very well and could have easily kept the attention of all readers but there were many things that were added but not relevant to the mystery such as a sick dog, a sabbatical that would or would not happen and attending a conference in Santa Fe. While these were interesting they really did not contribute to the solving of the mystery and became very involved. Another thing I didn’t like was the use of Hawaiian words for which there is no translation and I was not sure what they meant in the sentence. Don’t mind words I need to look up or translate but don’t like when there is not translation. Because of these other issues creating interference it was like the mystery was being pushed back from importance. The perpetrator was not difficult to figure out fairly early in the book but it took until almost the end for the reveal.
Certain many people will enjoy this book but I did not.
Certain many people will enjoy this book but I did not.
April 19, 2023
The author in this book pays a good deal of attention to detail both in description of events and a wonderful description of The large island of Hawaii with it's seaport the picturesque town of Hilo, the setting where this book takes place. The story begins with a murder and a body pulled up on the research ship where Cleo, a university professor and friends are. When one of her students is accused of murder, Cleo and her friends get involved, which includes Ben her microbiologist boyfriend. Cleo is a well developed and strong character. The events in this book have so many twists and turns and suspects, you have to keep turning pages to find any clue in this who-dun-it mystery. I also loved the dogs! This first book was just a little long and I couldn't read it in one sitting from the time I started, but it was very enjoyable never the less. I received and ARC of this book but the opinions expressed here are strictly my own.
July 13, 2024
This book is refreshingly different in its setting and approach. Cleo is a psychology professor in Hawaii, far from the hustle of the tourist life. While joining her boyfriend, Ben, a biology professor, on an ocean study outing with students, the body of a young woman is found and Ben’s teaching assistant is quickly implicated. This is not a cozy mystery nor a thriller but somewhere in between. This story is truly insightful in a realistic look into Hawaiian culture and life far from the glitz and glamour of TV and the vacation industry. It made me want to learn more about the real inhabitants of the islands. The characters are well developed and complex without the angst that authors often lean on to create interest and I find tiring. This is a strong first book in the series and I didn’t know until the end who the killer was or what Cleo would do next. That’s what keeps me coming back for the next in the series.
May 26, 2025
Coutant has provided readers with a luscious setting in Hawaii. Her descriptions of the locale, events, celebrations, customs and people were great. She captured the local dialect well. That was a major strength of the novel. The mystery itself, while present, takes a back seat to Cleo's life. There is much more about her personal life than there is solving the mystery. We are taken into her relationship with Ben, her love for her dog, and her teaching. This is definitely a novel for readers who like a deep dive into the life of the amateur sleuth. The murder mystery does get solved in the end with a dose of suspense too. We are left with more of Cleo's life to experience. I am interested in Cleo's character so I have already scheduled reading the sequel.
I received a complimentary digital copy of this book through Partners in Crime Book Tours. My comments are an independent and honest review.
I received a complimentary digital copy of this book through Partners in Crime Book Tours. My comments are an independent and honest review.
May 8, 2023
Evil Alice and the Borzoi is the first book in the Cleo Cooper Mystery series written by
DK Coutant. The author in this book paid a great deal of attention to detail both in description of events and the description of the large island of Hawaii with it's seaport the town of Hilo, the setting where this book takes place. The story begins with a murder and a body pulled up on the research ship where Cleo, a university professor and friends are. Cleo is a well developed and strong character. The events in this book have so many twists and turns and suspects, you have to keep turning pages to find any clue in this who-dun-it mystery. I also loved the dogs! This book was just a little long and I couldn't read it in one sitting from the time I started, but it was very enjoyable never the less. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
DK Coutant. The author in this book paid a great deal of attention to detail both in description of events and the description of the large island of Hawaii with it's seaport the town of Hilo, the setting where this book takes place. The story begins with a murder and a body pulled up on the research ship where Cleo, a university professor and friends are. Cleo is a well developed and strong character. The events in this book have so many twists and turns and suspects, you have to keep turning pages to find any clue in this who-dun-it mystery. I also loved the dogs! This book was just a little long and I couldn't read it in one sitting from the time I started, but it was very enjoyable never the less. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
July 11, 2023
I received a copy of this to review for free, as part of a book tour for Black Tide Book Tours.
Cosy mystery is one of my favourite genres to read, and I really enjoyed this. I found Cleo to be a very warm and compassionate character, and I identified with her a lot, to a point where I became very emotionally invested in the story.
Something that I enjoy about cosy mysteries is the fact that they feel like an escape for me, and this felt very much like an escape. I think it would be a good choice for a beach read.
I was entertained by the story, and cared about what happened to the characters too. If there are going to be any more books featuring Cleo as a protagonist, I think I would be interested in them.
Thank you to the author and Black Tide Book Tours for a free copy to review.
Cosy mystery is one of my favourite genres to read, and I really enjoyed this. I found Cleo to be a very warm and compassionate character, and I identified with her a lot, to a point where I became very emotionally invested in the story.
Something that I enjoy about cosy mysteries is the fact that they feel like an escape for me, and this felt very much like an escape. I think it would be a good choice for a beach read.
I was entertained by the story, and cared about what happened to the characters too. If there are going to be any more books featuring Cleo as a protagonist, I think I would be interested in them.
Thank you to the author and Black Tide Book Tours for a free copy to review.
July 14, 2023
Genre: Mystery/Thriller
My rating: ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️/5
As it’s a murder mystery here’s my review without spoilers: Set in Hawaii It’s a great fast paced action packed mystery. It was suspenseful and gripping throughout and I was not expecting the outcome at all.
There’s also a lot to learn about the beautiful Hawaii. Not just about the place but it’s culture and intricacies. The author sheds light on the social issues prevalent in Hawaii like exploitation and domestic violence as well.
I absolutely love strong female characters and the protagonist and Cleo copper is one of them, her journey through this mystery was rather impactful and filled with character development.
And honestly I’m so glad this book has a happy ending of sorts. All in all I’d say this is a remarkable thought provoking story.
My rating: ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️/5
As it’s a murder mystery here’s my review without spoilers: Set in Hawaii It’s a great fast paced action packed mystery. It was suspenseful and gripping throughout and I was not expecting the outcome at all.
There’s also a lot to learn about the beautiful Hawaii. Not just about the place but it’s culture and intricacies. The author sheds light on the social issues prevalent in Hawaii like exploitation and domestic violence as well.
I absolutely love strong female characters and the protagonist and Cleo copper is one of them, her journey through this mystery was rather impactful and filled with character development.
And honestly I’m so glad this book has a happy ending of sorts. All in all I’d say this is a remarkable thought provoking story.
November 3, 2025
This was Book 1 in the Cleo Cooper Mystery series and really enjoyed it! I love finding a new cozy series.
And it was set on Hawaii!! A great setting for a tangled whodunnit. I enjoyed Cleo and her Scooby Doo crew.
Cleo and Ben’s friend and research assistant is arrested for the death of his girlfriend. Cleo, Ben and their friends jump in to clear his name.
I suspected the guilty party early on but with every page I was questioning if I was right so bravo! Cleo is a great FMC, I liked how her psychology degree was used in her sleuthing. Her friends were colorful side characters.
Ben was a frustrating character, but again I appreciated Cleo’s knowledge on explaining him and his actions which kept me from actually disliking him, actually he became quite suspicious in my mind!
I can’t wait to read more of Cleo in Book 2!
And it was set on Hawaii!! A great setting for a tangled whodunnit. I enjoyed Cleo and her Scooby Doo crew.
Cleo and Ben’s friend and research assistant is arrested for the death of his girlfriend. Cleo, Ben and their friends jump in to clear his name.
I suspected the guilty party early on but with every page I was questioning if I was right so bravo! Cleo is a great FMC, I liked how her psychology degree was used in her sleuthing. Her friends were colorful side characters.
Ben was a frustrating character, but again I appreciated Cleo’s knowledge on explaining him and his actions which kept me from actually disliking him, actually he became quite suspicious in my mind!
I can’t wait to read more of Cleo in Book 2!
April 3, 2023
Cleo Cooper is shaken when she finds her favorite student is on the hook for the murder of his girlfriend, who was pulled from the water by the research boat she was on. Excellent new series. This was a true who done it type murder with several possible candidates who had reason to kill Alice. I enjoyed the description of Hilo and its unique environment with the Farm and the two canines as added joy. I received this as an ARC, but would have bought the book based on the borzoi in the title as I love sighthounds and DK Coutant does an excellent job of describing the young borzoi pup and all its attributes. Recommend this new mystery for an enjoyable getaway to Hawaii.
April 20, 2023
A wonderful read and great start to the Cleo Cooper Mystery series that is so beautifully written I felt like I was with Cleo in Hilo and sharing her ups and downs, twists and turns as she tries to clear the name of her favorite student who is being charged with murder. I knew as soon as I started reading this page-turner that I wouldn't be able to put it down until I read the last word so I read long into the night. I feel a real connection to Cleo and look forward to more adventures on the Big Island of Hawaii. I received an advance reader copy of Evil Alice and the Borzoi and am voluntarily leaving my review.
April 22, 2023
This is the first book in a new series that I would characterize as a cozy mystery. The title was a bit odd, but it turned out to make sense. I loved the setting of Hawaii. The story was very good and it was well-written. Since the main character and her boyfriend are professors, it touched on some psychosocial issues in a sensitive and non-controversial way; some of the academic stuff that I thought were going to be pushed as “woke” really weren’t and it seemed really balanced. I really liked the main character, Cleo, and would love to know what happens to her in the future. I can definitely recommend this book; I was provided an arc, but these opinions are my own.
May 9, 2023
Solid 3.5 star
I loved Cleo and and enjoyed getting to know her, her job and about her life but felt at times there was maybe too much description going on, potentially as its the first book in the series. However at times detracts from the task at hand of who killed Ali someone who many considered a "Tita". There are some great characters and plenty of twists in regards to who the killer is to the point where you aren't sure who to trust, then there is Suki.... ugh that one hurt. I look forward to reading the next book in the series now that the scene is set for Cleo and her life in Hilo.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I loved Cleo and and enjoyed getting to know her, her job and about her life but felt at times there was maybe too much description going on, potentially as its the first book in the series. However at times detracts from the task at hand of who killed Ali someone who many considered a "Tita". There are some great characters and plenty of twists in regards to who the killer is to the point where you aren't sure who to trust, then there is Suki.... ugh that one hurt. I look forward to reading the next book in the series now that the scene is set for Cleo and her life in Hilo.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 12, 2023
This is the start of a fun new cozy mystery series set in Hawaii written by an author who has clearly spent a lot of time in that beautiful vacation state. The narration is so descriptive and every aspect of living in Hawaii is written in such beautiful detail. I totally felt like I was there along with the characters.
Quite a few characters are introduced in the beginning and it did take me a little while to get my bearings. But I absolutely loved the main character from the get go, Cleo is intelligent and super relateable.
Quite a few characters are introduced in the beginning and it did take me a little while to get my bearings. But I absolutely loved the main character from the get go, Cleo is intelligent and super relateable.
January 1, 2026
I absolutely love an “against the clock” kind of story. Will the killer be caught before the chaser gets killed? It’s the jeopardy of a mystery story at its finest and always keeps me absolutely gripped. This is the first Cleo Cooper Mystery and I hope there are many more to come. Love a strong female protagonist and Cleo really is a character with character. So much potential for future adventures. The story flows well and is engaging, the characters are all well written and we all love a book with a dog on the cover, don’t we? Loved this one, can’t wait for the next.
July 14, 2023
I thought this book was a brilliant read! It was extremely well written and moved smoothly along. I think Cleo was the perfect character to be at the center of the action and solve the murder. She is strong, intelligent and determined so she gives it all she’s got to help her friend when he is accused of his girlfriend’s murder. The setting, one of the Hawaiian Islands, is masterfully created to transport the reader into the action. I really hope there will be more books featuring Cleo.
July 15, 2023
A cozy mystery with a dog in the cover. Definitely captures my attention.
Cleo Cooper is a FMC that I wish was more in cozy books. One with brains and looks. Versus some woman meandering through life and is dropped into a mystery. Or maybe it’s the ones I’m picking up.
Loved the wide array of characters and the detail of Hawaii transported me there. Little to clean for me but the mystery kept me interested.
Cleo Cooper is a FMC that I wish was more in cozy books. One with brains and looks. Versus some woman meandering through life and is dropped into a mystery. Or maybe it’s the ones I’m picking up.
Loved the wide array of characters and the detail of Hawaii transported me there. Little to clean for me but the mystery kept me interested.
December 19, 2024
Evil Alice is a delightful read. The characters are interesting and the setting is divine. I can almost feel the Hawaiian tradewinds as I read some of the scenes in the book. Suki is a perfect addition. After all, there's nothing in life that can't be made better by the presence of a good dog. The storyline has just the right amount of plot twists. DK Countant is a talented storyteller, and I can't wait to read more Cleo Cooper mysteries.
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