Pamela C. (pj-s-bookcorner) reviewed Whiskers and Lies (Magical Cats, Bk 14) on + 885 more book reviews
Another amusing story about the magical cats, Hercules & Owen, and their "owner", librarian Kathleen. When a friend is accused of killing her ex mother-in-law, Kathleen & the kitties are determined to find out who the real killer is. (Could use some editing in spots.)
Whiskers and Lies by Sofie Kelly is a charming cozy mystery. I like the characters in this series especially Kathleen. Her cats, Owen and Hercules are adorable and clever. I also like Marcus's cat, Micah. The characters are developed and relatable. I love the interactions between Kathleen and her cats. They seem to understand Kathleen and react appropriately. The cats and their antics (especially Hercules) add humor to the story. I like the descriptions of Mayville Heights. It is a town filled with friendly people who watch out for one another. The prankster and the pranks were entertaining. It added another mystery to the story. The main mystery was interesting and entertaining. Georgia Tepper moved to Mayville Heights a few years ago with her daughter, Emmy. She was running from her in-laws who were determined to gain custody of Emmy. Unfortunately, Margery and Hugh Wyler have found them, and they have not given up the fight. When Margery ends up dead, all evidence points to Georgia as the killer. Kathleen with help from her two feline sidekicks works to uncover the truth. I liked this mystery. It was different. There are clues to help readers solve the crime before the tense reveal. I like how Hercules and Owen help by finding clues and leading Kathleen to them. Their magical abilities are helpful (becoming invisible and walking through walls) when investigating a murder or facing down a killer. Kathleen knows that her cats have her back. Kathleen is good at asking questions without being aggressive or accusing. The reveal was tense and illuminating (there was a touch of humor too). Whiskers and Lies is the fourteenth A Magical Cats Mystery. It can be read as a standalone if you are new to the series. I did find the pacing to be a little on the slow side. I wish there had been more action. The book does contain a small amount of foul language (less than six words). I enjoyed the Halloween party planning and the descriptions of Georgia's spooktacular cupcakes. The ending will surprise readers and will make fans of the series happy. Whiskers and Lies is a magical tale with appealing pranks, Halloween happenings, clever kitties, a murdered mother-in-law, delectable cupcakes, an alarming arrest, and an unexpected present.
