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Nick and Nora Mysteries #6
A Purr Before Dying
Firebird Award Winner—Best Cozy Mystery!
No one’s who they seem in the thrilling new Nick and Nora Mystery, and someone’s playing the part of a clever killer . . .
When a nighttime soap opera comes to town to film an episode, no one’s more excited than Nora Charles, who’s landed the contract for catering the shoot. But if she thought the show’s plotlines were full of drama and intrigue, that’s nothing compared to what she witnesses among the cast and crew. With half of them sneaking off for secret liaisons one minute and at each other’s throats the next, it’s all a titillating behind-the-scenes look for Nora—until she stumbles across the body of the show’s slain director.
It’s not long before the local authorities finger the brother of Nora’s good friend for the evil deed, and it’s up to Nora and her sidekick Nick to get him off the hook. As she begins to sort out the cast’s romantic entanglements and professional rivalries looking for a motive, she also discovers that the victim was involved in the mysterious death of the show’s previous director. And then another member of the crew is found murdered, and Nora knows she’ll have to act fast to figure out who’s playing the part of the killer, before she’s cast in the role of the next victim . . .
Includes scrumptious recipes!
Praise for the Nick and Nora
“The story has the unique twist of a cat who communicates through Scrabble tiles, which I found to be a very fun element of the book. I really looked forward to what the cat had to say! 5 STARS” —Nellie’s Book Nook
“If you love cozy mystery books with PIs, FBIs, sisters, friends, love interests . . . you get the picture! I think all cozy mystery lovers will be delighted with this entertaining series.” —Christy’s Cozy Corners
“I enjoyed the mystery, which was impossible to figure out before our smart and tough protagonist nailed it. A nice solid four stars.” —Here’s How It Happened
“The author’s suspenseful and startling reveal had me on the edge of my seat as I turned pages faster and faster and with the final conclusion.” —Cinnamon and Sugar and a Little Bit of Murder
“Murder Faux Paws is a captivating cozy with a fascinating cat and a diverse cast surrounding him. I am excited for this series to continue and I will keep coming back for more.” —Escape with Dollycas into a Good Book
About the
T. C. LoTempio is the award-winning, national bestselling author of the Nick and Nora mystery series. Her cat, Rocco, provides the inspiration for the character of Nick the cat. She also writes the Urban Tails Pet Shop Mystery Series, as well as the Cat Rescue series. Check out her and Rocco’s blog, www.catsbooksmorecats.blogspot.com, and visit her website, www.tclotempio.net, for more information.
No one’s who they seem in the thrilling new Nick and Nora Mystery, and someone’s playing the part of a clever killer . . .
When a nighttime soap opera comes to town to film an episode, no one’s more excited than Nora Charles, who’s landed the contract for catering the shoot. But if she thought the show’s plotlines were full of drama and intrigue, that’s nothing compared to what she witnesses among the cast and crew. With half of them sneaking off for secret liaisons one minute and at each other’s throats the next, it’s all a titillating behind-the-scenes look for Nora—until she stumbles across the body of the show’s slain director.
It’s not long before the local authorities finger the brother of Nora’s good friend for the evil deed, and it’s up to Nora and her sidekick Nick to get him off the hook. As she begins to sort out the cast’s romantic entanglements and professional rivalries looking for a motive, she also discovers that the victim was involved in the mysterious death of the show’s previous director. And then another member of the crew is found murdered, and Nora knows she’ll have to act fast to figure out who’s playing the part of the killer, before she’s cast in the role of the next victim . . .
Includes scrumptious recipes!
Praise for the Nick and Nora
“The story has the unique twist of a cat who communicates through Scrabble tiles, which I found to be a very fun element of the book. I really looked forward to what the cat had to say! 5 STARS” —Nellie’s Book Nook
“If you love cozy mystery books with PIs, FBIs, sisters, friends, love interests . . . you get the picture! I think all cozy mystery lovers will be delighted with this entertaining series.” —Christy’s Cozy Corners
“I enjoyed the mystery, which was impossible to figure out before our smart and tough protagonist nailed it. A nice solid four stars.” —Here’s How It Happened
“The author’s suspenseful and startling reveal had me on the edge of my seat as I turned pages faster and faster and with the final conclusion.” —Cinnamon and Sugar and a Little Bit of Murder
“Murder Faux Paws is a captivating cozy with a fascinating cat and a diverse cast surrounding him. I am excited for this series to continue and I will keep coming back for more.” —Escape with Dollycas into a Good Book
About the
T. C. LoTempio is the award-winning, national bestselling author of the Nick and Nora mystery series. Her cat, Rocco, provides the inspiration for the character of Nick the cat. She also writes the Urban Tails Pet Shop Mystery Series, as well as the Cat Rescue series. Check out her and Rocco’s blog, www.catsbooksmorecats.blogspot.com, and visit her website, www.tclotempio.net, for more information.
239 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 21, 2023
11 people are currently reading
109 people want to read
About the author
T.C. LoTempio
25 books759 followersBorn in New York City, T. C. LoTempio is the national bestselling author of Meow If It’s Murder, the first in the Nick and Nora Mystery series.
She has been a staff reporter at the young adult magazine Susabella Passengers and Friends for more than a decade.
While Toni LoTempio does not commit – or solve – murders in real life, she has no trouble doing it on paper.
Her lifelong love of mysteries began early on when she was introduced to her first Nancy Drew mystery at age 10 – The Secret in the Old Attic. She lists among her favorite mystery/suspense writers Erle Stanley Gardner, Mary Higgins Clark and James Patterson, as well as EJ Copperman, Steve Hockensmith, Victoria Laurie, Ali Brandon, Rita Mae Brown, Miranda James and Sofie Kelly to name only a few!
Toni is also passionate about her love for animals, as demonstrated with her four cats: Trixie, Princess, Maxx and, of course, ROCCO, who not only provided the inspiration for the character of Nick the cat in the Nick and Nora mystery series, but who also writes his own blog and does charity work for Nathan Fillion’s charity, Kids Need to Read!
Toni’s also devoted to miniseries like The Thorn Birds, Dancing with the Stars, reruns of Murder She Wrote and Castle (of course!).
She (and ROCCO, albeit he’s uncredited) pen the Nick and Nora mystery series from Berkley Prime Crime.
She, Rocco and company make their home in Clifton, New Jersey, just twenty minutes from the Big Apple – New York
She has been a staff reporter at the young adult magazine Susabella Passengers and Friends for more than a decade.
While Toni LoTempio does not commit – or solve – murders in real life, she has no trouble doing it on paper.
Her lifelong love of mysteries began early on when she was introduced to her first Nancy Drew mystery at age 10 – The Secret in the Old Attic. She lists among her favorite mystery/suspense writers Erle Stanley Gardner, Mary Higgins Clark and James Patterson, as well as EJ Copperman, Steve Hockensmith, Victoria Laurie, Ali Brandon, Rita Mae Brown, Miranda James and Sofie Kelly to name only a few!
Toni is also passionate about her love for animals, as demonstrated with her four cats: Trixie, Princess, Maxx and, of course, ROCCO, who not only provided the inspiration for the character of Nick the cat in the Nick and Nora mystery series, but who also writes his own blog and does charity work for Nathan Fillion’s charity, Kids Need to Read!
Toni’s also devoted to miniseries like The Thorn Birds, Dancing with the Stars, reruns of Murder She Wrote and Castle (of course!).
She (and ROCCO, albeit he’s uncredited) pen the Nick and Nora mystery series from Berkley Prime Crime.
She, Rocco and company make their home in Clifton, New Jersey, just twenty minutes from the Big Apple – New York
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
March 11, 2023
Dollycas’s Thoughts
Nick and Nora are back again. Will they be able to use his Scrabble tiles to spell out a killer this time?
The cast and crew of the nighttime soap opera All the Days of Tomorrow have come to Cruz, California for two weeks to film an episode, and Nora’s sandwich shop Hot Bread has been awarded the catering contract. She soon finds out the soap opera playing out in real life was more interesting than the one being filmed. That was made clear when she trips over the dead body of the show’s director and she learns the previous director died not long ago in a freak “accident”.
While the police question everyone involved with the show they put Nora’s friend Chantel’s brother Remi at the top of their suspect list. Remi has nothing to do with the soap and has remained frustratingly silent about the whole thing. So Nora decides she and Nick will have to again get involved and try to find the real killer. Good thing she had all that training and now has her P.I. license. But she barely gets her investigation started when another crew member is killed. She realizes she needs to work fast or she could be written out of the production permanently.
Will Nora catch a killer? Will Nick get his closeup? Will the soap survive? Will Nick and Nora survive?
I love old movies and I can remember first watching The Thin Man with my mom on our old black and white t.v. many, many years ago and several other times with the movies being available on DVD, Streaming, and I think my mom even had it on VHS. We also enjoyed the many sequels that followed. So the characters of Nick and Nora Charles and their dog Asta are near and dear to my heart. That is why I love the way T.C. LoTempio has made these characters her own even turning the character of Nick into a clever cat with a flair for detective work and a unique talent. Although Nick’s former human was also named Nick and he hasn’t seen or heard from for quite a while. That adds just a little more mystery to this series. Every book in this series makes me love these characters more. They are well-developed and fun and surrounded by a great supporting cast.
The mystery has an overabundance of suspects including the whole cast and crew of the soap, Chantel’s brother Remi, and who knows who else could have wandered into Sweeney Park. Nora and Nick had their work cut out for them. The author plotted out everything so well. I kept changing my mind about who committed the crimes until a certain character drew my attention. Then I discarded them too thinking I just couldn’t be right. I was shocked as I kept reading only to see I had been on the right track after all. The reveal was excellent, Nora got into some scary but good trouble, and Nick, oh Nick. What a fabulous feline he is!
A Purr Before Dying was so entertaining. I hope this series continues for a long time as these characters are some of my favorites.
Just a note, this book can be read all on its own but I encourage you to read the whole series for maximum enjoyment.
Now I just need to decide which Thin Man movie to watch this weekend.
Nick and Nora are back again. Will they be able to use his Scrabble tiles to spell out a killer this time?
The cast and crew of the nighttime soap opera All the Days of Tomorrow have come to Cruz, California for two weeks to film an episode, and Nora’s sandwich shop Hot Bread has been awarded the catering contract. She soon finds out the soap opera playing out in real life was more interesting than the one being filmed. That was made clear when she trips over the dead body of the show’s director and she learns the previous director died not long ago in a freak “accident”.
While the police question everyone involved with the show they put Nora’s friend Chantel’s brother Remi at the top of their suspect list. Remi has nothing to do with the soap and has remained frustratingly silent about the whole thing. So Nora decides she and Nick will have to again get involved and try to find the real killer. Good thing she had all that training and now has her P.I. license. But she barely gets her investigation started when another crew member is killed. She realizes she needs to work fast or she could be written out of the production permanently.
Will Nora catch a killer? Will Nick get his closeup? Will the soap survive? Will Nick and Nora survive?
I love old movies and I can remember first watching The Thin Man with my mom on our old black and white t.v. many, many years ago and several other times with the movies being available on DVD, Streaming, and I think my mom even had it on VHS. We also enjoyed the many sequels that followed. So the characters of Nick and Nora Charles and their dog Asta are near and dear to my heart. That is why I love the way T.C. LoTempio has made these characters her own even turning the character of Nick into a clever cat with a flair for detective work and a unique talent. Although Nick’s former human was also named Nick and he hasn’t seen or heard from for quite a while. That adds just a little more mystery to this series. Every book in this series makes me love these characters more. They are well-developed and fun and surrounded by a great supporting cast.
The mystery has an overabundance of suspects including the whole cast and crew of the soap, Chantel’s brother Remi, and who knows who else could have wandered into Sweeney Park. Nora and Nick had their work cut out for them. The author plotted out everything so well. I kept changing my mind about who committed the crimes until a certain character drew my attention. Then I discarded them too thinking I just couldn’t be right. I was shocked as I kept reading only to see I had been on the right track after all. The reveal was excellent, Nora got into some scary but good trouble, and Nick, oh Nick. What a fabulous feline he is!
A Purr Before Dying was so entertaining. I hope this series continues for a long time as these characters are some of my favorites.
Just a note, this book can be read all on its own but I encourage you to read the whole series for maximum enjoyment.
Now I just need to decide which Thin Man movie to watch this weekend.
March 8, 2023
The owner of the Hot Bread restaurant, Nora Charles, is excited when a nighttime soap opera plans to bring their show to her town to tape an episode. She is awarded a contract to cater the event. She never realized how much drama goes on behind the scenes. Perhaps even more than on screen. Most of the town is excited to meet all the actors, including her best friend Chantal and her sister Lacey.
Things take a tragic turn when the show’s director is murdered, and Chantal’s brother is arrested for the crime. They know he’s innocent, but the police aren’t looking any further for a killer since they are sure they already have him. So, it’s up to Nora, and her feline sleuth Nick, to find the real culprit.
I love this series. Yes, it has a feline detective so I’m probably biased but I can’t help it. Nick is a cutie and he helps solve crimes. He’s quite the clever cat. However, he doesn’t talk and gets his message across in other ways.
The storyline has many different angles. So many people could have been behind the murder. Each had their own gripes against the victim. I had my suspicions about halfway through the story. I was surprised I guessed right, but I had my doubts until the end and kept changing my mind. The author has a great knack at keeping the reader guessing.
Nora and Nick are two amateur sleuths that have been on my favorite list for a long time. It’s one of the few cozy mystery series I’m actually caught up on. Although this is book #6, the mystery is contained and solved in this book. I do recommend reading the series from the start to get to know the characters and their background. You do get some background info in this book, but it’s always more fun to watch the character growth for yourself.
I hope we get more adventures and mysteries with Nora and Nick. There's so much intrigue in each book with some hints at a potential romance. I know I’m in for hours of enjoyment when I see a new Nick and Nora book out.
FTC Disclosure: I voluntarily reviewed a free Advance Reader Copy of this book from NetGalley and the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own.
Things take a tragic turn when the show’s director is murdered, and Chantal’s brother is arrested for the crime. They know he’s innocent, but the police aren’t looking any further for a killer since they are sure they already have him. So, it’s up to Nora, and her feline sleuth Nick, to find the real culprit.
I love this series. Yes, it has a feline detective so I’m probably biased but I can’t help it. Nick is a cutie and he helps solve crimes. He’s quite the clever cat. However, he doesn’t talk and gets his message across in other ways.
The storyline has many different angles. So many people could have been behind the murder. Each had their own gripes against the victim. I had my suspicions about halfway through the story. I was surprised I guessed right, but I had my doubts until the end and kept changing my mind. The author has a great knack at keeping the reader guessing.
Nora and Nick are two amateur sleuths that have been on my favorite list for a long time. It’s one of the few cozy mystery series I’m actually caught up on. Although this is book #6, the mystery is contained and solved in this book. I do recommend reading the series from the start to get to know the characters and their background. You do get some background info in this book, but it’s always more fun to watch the character growth for yourself.
I hope we get more adventures and mysteries with Nora and Nick. There's so much intrigue in each book with some hints at a potential romance. I know I’m in for hours of enjoyment when I see a new Nick and Nora book out.
FTC Disclosure: I voluntarily reviewed a free Advance Reader Copy of this book from NetGalley and the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own.
February 16, 2023
Nora Charles used to be an investigative journalist but now writes for an online true crime magazine alongside running her late mother's sandwich shop, Hot Bread. When it is announced that a popular nighttime soap plans to film in their small town of Cruz, Nora bids for and wins the catering contract much to the delight of her employees and customers alike. Although she has recently got her Private Investigator's licence, partly due to a talent for finding murder victims, Nora has no intention of stepping back from her catering career, however fate appears to have other plans!
With everyone on set seeming to have as much drama in their private lives as their on-screen characters it isn't long before Nora discovers one of the visitors' dead and her whole team witness arguments, fall-outs, and histrionics on an epic scale. As the investigation heats up and secrets are revealed, Nora, and her trusty sidekick Nick, the tuxedo cat, know they will have very little time to discover the killer’s identity before their own luck runs out.
This is the sixth Nick and Nora mystery, and although reality is suspended throughout, it is very enjoyable with all the main protagonists making it a very pleasant read. There are some basic stereotypes here including a 'will they, won't they' romance, some handy coincidences, and a Scrabble loving cat to help the plot along, it is still a fun book.
I was able to read an advanced copy of this thanks to NetGalley and the publishers, but the opinions expressed are my own. If you are a fan of this series, you won't be disappointed, if it's new to you, well sometimes reality is overrated. 3.5 stars rounded up to 4.
With everyone on set seeming to have as much drama in their private lives as their on-screen characters it isn't long before Nora discovers one of the visitors' dead and her whole team witness arguments, fall-outs, and histrionics on an epic scale. As the investigation heats up and secrets are revealed, Nora, and her trusty sidekick Nick, the tuxedo cat, know they will have very little time to discover the killer’s identity before their own luck runs out.
This is the sixth Nick and Nora mystery, and although reality is suspended throughout, it is very enjoyable with all the main protagonists making it a very pleasant read. There are some basic stereotypes here including a 'will they, won't they' romance, some handy coincidences, and a Scrabble loving cat to help the plot along, it is still a fun book.
I was able to read an advanced copy of this thanks to NetGalley and the publishers, but the opinions expressed are my own. If you are a fan of this series, you won't be disappointed, if it's new to you, well sometimes reality is overrated. 3.5 stars rounded up to 4.
March 3, 2023
Setting the Scene: Nick and Nora return in a wonderful twisty drama-filled story. When Nora lands the contract to cater for the cast and crew of the night-time soap opera, All the Days of Tomorrow, she expects most of the drama to take place in front of the camera. She is wrong.
The egos, secrets, and back-biting among the cast and crew are staggering, and when Nick and Nora discover the body of the universally despised director, there are plenty of suspects. Unfortunately, the police settle on Nora's BFF's brother, Remy, as their number one suspect, and Nora, with her newly minted PI license, is compelled to investigate.
Nothing and no one is what they seem. Even Remy has a dark history with the murder victim that he refuses to share. Nora calls on her sleuthing allies, Ollie and Hank, as she and Nick work to identify the real murderer. Unfortunately, Daniel is still in London on his undercover assignment. At least Nora assumes so since he has been incommunicado for 6 months. Regardless, his absence leaves a hole in her investigation process, maybe her life. On the other hand, Lee Samms makes his presence known - often.
What I Thought: Toni (T.C.) LoTempio has created a near perfect, and unique, cozy mystery series with a sassy cat who communicates through Scrabble tiles, a smart and savvy protagonist who runs a sandwich shop/catering business and has her PI license, FBI agents, a touch of romance, and a small hometown full of friends who are just quirky enough to be interesting without crossing over into corny. Add to that some very interesting mysteries, present book included, and we have a winner.
It's been a hot minute, but these characters are so relatable that I jumped right back into their lives and their humor. Nick is his usual uncanny but lovable self and may be my favorite sleuthing cat of all time. Nora continues to be an intelligent businesswoman and sleuth, managing both activities successfully (with a little help from her friends). My only concern is this potential love triangle that has been building. I really like both Daniel and Samms, and I get the well written dilemma of choosing, assuming there is a choice, given Daniel's absence; but I really hope to see this resolved sooner rather than later.
Bottom line, I highly recommend this series/book and urge you to start at the beginning and keep reading.
#apurrbeforedying #tonilotempio #tclotempio #netgalley #beyondthepagepublishing #cozymysteries #amateursleuth #strongfemalelead #bookreview #bookworm #bookaddict #booklovers #bookrecommendations #bookloversofinstagram #bookwormsofinstagram #privateinvestigator #catsleuth #catpartner
The egos, secrets, and back-biting among the cast and crew are staggering, and when Nick and Nora discover the body of the universally despised director, there are plenty of suspects. Unfortunately, the police settle on Nora's BFF's brother, Remy, as their number one suspect, and Nora, with her newly minted PI license, is compelled to investigate.
Nothing and no one is what they seem. Even Remy has a dark history with the murder victim that he refuses to share. Nora calls on her sleuthing allies, Ollie and Hank, as she and Nick work to identify the real murderer. Unfortunately, Daniel is still in London on his undercover assignment. At least Nora assumes so since he has been incommunicado for 6 months. Regardless, his absence leaves a hole in her investigation process, maybe her life. On the other hand, Lee Samms makes his presence known - often.
What I Thought: Toni (T.C.) LoTempio has created a near perfect, and unique, cozy mystery series with a sassy cat who communicates through Scrabble tiles, a smart and savvy protagonist who runs a sandwich shop/catering business and has her PI license, FBI agents, a touch of romance, and a small hometown full of friends who are just quirky enough to be interesting without crossing over into corny. Add to that some very interesting mysteries, present book included, and we have a winner.
It's been a hot minute, but these characters are so relatable that I jumped right back into their lives and their humor. Nick is his usual uncanny but lovable self and may be my favorite sleuthing cat of all time. Nora continues to be an intelligent businesswoman and sleuth, managing both activities successfully (with a little help from her friends). My only concern is this potential love triangle that has been building. I really like both Daniel and Samms, and I get the well written dilemma of choosing, assuming there is a choice, given Daniel's absence; but I really hope to see this resolved sooner rather than later.
Bottom line, I highly recommend this series/book and urge you to start at the beginning and keep reading.
#apurrbeforedying #tonilotempio #tclotempio #netgalley #beyondthepagepublishing #cozymysteries #amateursleuth #strongfemalelead #bookreview #bookworm #bookaddict #booklovers #bookrecommendations #bookloversofinstagram #bookwormsofinstagram #privateinvestigator #catsleuth #catpartner
February 19, 2023
Nora Charles, a former Chicago reporter and amateur sleuth, and Nick, her tuxedo cat, solve crimes. Nick’s original owner, PI Nick Atkins, disappeared over a year ago, but he taught his cat, Sherlock, how to spell out clues using Scrabble tiles. So Nora changed her feline partner’s name to Nick while they work together and wait for some sign of Atkins.
In T. C. LoTempio’s new Nick and Nora mystery, a film crew for the TV show All the Days of Tomorrow, comes to Cruz to shoot on location for two weeks. Nora and her specialty sandwich shop, Hot Bread, win the contract to cater meals for the actors and crew members during their stay.
The original director for the TV series dies in an accident on the set, and Anton Forbes replaces him on the shoot in Cruz for the first time. There is speculation that the original director was murdered, but no evidence supports the suspicion. However, Forbes is not popular with either the actors or crew, and he is found murdered by Nick and Nora when they go to meet him for Nick’s guest appearance on the TV show.
With no shortage of suspects, a police investigation begins. Unfortunately, when the murder weapon is found, it turns out to be a product recently ordered by the local florist shop Poppies, and its co-owner Remy Gillard is arrested. However, Nora’s best friend, Chantal, is Remy’s sister and hires Nora to help get to the truth.
Ms. LoTempio writes the most delightful mysteries featuring two amateur sleuths: former crime reporter and newly licensed PI Nora Charles and a smart tuxedo feline snoop, Nick. Nick and Nora’s ability to understand each other is as uncanny as it is charming and certainly adds an intriguing dimension to this series. Entertaining and engaging best describe this cozy mystery series.
In T. C. LoTempio’s new Nick and Nora mystery, a film crew for the TV show All the Days of Tomorrow, comes to Cruz to shoot on location for two weeks. Nora and her specialty sandwich shop, Hot Bread, win the contract to cater meals for the actors and crew members during their stay.
The original director for the TV series dies in an accident on the set, and Anton Forbes replaces him on the shoot in Cruz for the first time. There is speculation that the original director was murdered, but no evidence supports the suspicion. However, Forbes is not popular with either the actors or crew, and he is found murdered by Nick and Nora when they go to meet him for Nick’s guest appearance on the TV show.
With no shortage of suspects, a police investigation begins. Unfortunately, when the murder weapon is found, it turns out to be a product recently ordered by the local florist shop Poppies, and its co-owner Remy Gillard is arrested. However, Nora’s best friend, Chantal, is Remy’s sister and hires Nora to help get to the truth.
Ms. LoTempio writes the most delightful mysteries featuring two amateur sleuths: former crime reporter and newly licensed PI Nora Charles and a smart tuxedo feline snoop, Nick. Nick and Nora’s ability to understand each other is as uncanny as it is charming and certainly adds an intriguing dimension to this series. Entertaining and engaging best describe this cozy mystery series.
February 21, 2023
I have read the other novels in T.C. LoTempio’s Nick and Nora Mystery series, because I absolutely love both characters. However, I do have some concerns.
In this sixth installment, Nora Charles, owner of Hot Bread and newly licensed private investigator, has landed a contract to cater a movie shoot. While setting up the tables, she is witness to drama outside of the scripted kind. Later, Nick, her sleuthing partner tuxedo cat, and she find the show’s director dead.
Remy, Chantal’s brother, becomes the prime suspect when he refuses to reveal his pat with the slain man. Nora and Nick must prove his innocence before anyone else loses their lives.
I have serious pet peeves with certain tropes in the mystery genre. For example, when the amateur detective is better at deductions and the police are nasty and non-cooperative. Now there is female Detective Dale Anderson, who is shutting the door in Nora’s face. How many times does the woman need to be told that Nora is a licensed P.I. before she stops telling her that she isn’t a professional?
Outside of this concern, everything else was great. The characters are all very well written with distinct personalities. The mystery has more than enough suspects, motives, and red herrings. I wasn’t sure of the killer until the close to the end.
Nick is still one of my favorite pet sleuths. I love the Scrabble tiles, and how he uses them. It actually is possible for cats to learn these things, so I don’t find it far-fetched or impossible. My own cat knows how to open doors.
Overall, I rate this novel 4 out of 5 stars.
In this sixth installment, Nora Charles, owner of Hot Bread and newly licensed private investigator, has landed a contract to cater a movie shoot. While setting up the tables, she is witness to drama outside of the scripted kind. Later, Nick, her sleuthing partner tuxedo cat, and she find the show’s director dead.
Remy, Chantal’s brother, becomes the prime suspect when he refuses to reveal his pat with the slain man. Nora and Nick must prove his innocence before anyone else loses their lives.
I have serious pet peeves with certain tropes in the mystery genre. For example, when the amateur detective is better at deductions and the police are nasty and non-cooperative. Now there is female Detective Dale Anderson, who is shutting the door in Nora’s face. How many times does the woman need to be told that Nora is a licensed P.I. before she stops telling her that she isn’t a professional?
Outside of this concern, everything else was great. The characters are all very well written with distinct personalities. The mystery has more than enough suspects, motives, and red herrings. I wasn’t sure of the killer until the close to the end.
Nick is still one of my favorite pet sleuths. I love the Scrabble tiles, and how he uses them. It actually is possible for cats to learn these things, so I don’t find it far-fetched or impossible. My own cat knows how to open doors.
Overall, I rate this novel 4 out of 5 stars.
March 14, 2023
Princess Fuzzypants here: Full disclosure here. I love this series. I confess to a friendship with Rocco, Toni’s kitty co-author but if you like cats and mysteries, this should be a series on your list and I think this one just might be my favourite. I love the way Nora can now interpret Nick’s conversations and accepts that he is the lead PI. Yes, Nora now has her PI license as well as running her restaurant. She will be needing both skill sets when the corrosive director of a night-time soap is murdered when they are filming in town.
Nora is contracted to provide the food for the actors and crew and even Nick is enlisted to share screen time with one of the stars. That is how she and Nick discover the body. However, it is when the prime suspect turns out to be BFF Chantal’s brother, Chantal hires her to find the real killer. She has help from friends who are also in the PI business but it will be Nick with his Scrabble tiles that fills in the blanks. I did suspect the villain early on but the whole tale was an entertaining revelation and as always, when Nora is in danger, Nick comes to her aid.
You could read this as a standalone but why miss all the fun. I would start at the beginning and follow the trail. You won’t be disappointed. Five purrs and two paws up.
Nora is contracted to provide the food for the actors and crew and even Nick is enlisted to share screen time with one of the stars. That is how she and Nick discover the body. However, it is when the prime suspect turns out to be BFF Chantal’s brother, Chantal hires her to find the real killer. She has help from friends who are also in the PI business but it will be Nick with his Scrabble tiles that fills in the blanks. I did suspect the villain early on but the whole tale was an entertaining revelation and as always, when Nora is in danger, Nick comes to her aid.
You could read this as a standalone but why miss all the fun. I would start at the beginning and follow the trail. You won’t be disappointed. Five purrs and two paws up.
February 18, 2023
This is the sixth Nick and Nora cat mystery and one of my favorite of the series. The author knows cats and includes all their wonderful qualities in her books. Thank you to the publisher and to Net Galley for the opportunity. My review opinion is my own.
In this next in series Nora has a catering contract for a show being filmed in town. She is thrilled to showcase her bakery and hopes to be successful. Her tuxedo cat Nick is featured in this series as helping her solve mysteries and her daily sidekick . When the show begins filming drama ensues and soon Nora stumbles across a murder victim. . She is a savvy investigator and soon is finding clues and red herrings abound. As Nora further investigate with Nick's help she is soon to find the answers to this murder.
The sleuth was well crafted to conclusion.. The author has a wonderful talent for building clues and holding the reader in suspense to the end. I love all the supporting charcters and especially the adorable smart cat Nick.
In this next in series Nora has a catering contract for a show being filmed in town. She is thrilled to showcase her bakery and hopes to be successful. Her tuxedo cat Nick is featured in this series as helping her solve mysteries and her daily sidekick . When the show begins filming drama ensues and soon Nora stumbles across a murder victim. . She is a savvy investigator and soon is finding clues and red herrings abound. As Nora further investigate with Nick's help she is soon to find the answers to this murder.
The sleuth was well crafted to conclusion.. The author has a wonderful talent for building clues and holding the reader in suspense to the end. I love all the supporting charcters and especially the adorable smart cat Nick.
April 26, 2023
When Nora Charles is awarded the catering contract for a nighttime soap that’s coming to town to film, she’s more than pleased. It’ll be a great money maker and raise the profile of Hot Bread, her sandwich shop. She discovers more than she expected when she gets a behind-the-scenes look at the show…and then things ramp up even more when she finds the body of the murdered show director. As she uncovers his past, and the history of some of the cast and crew, Nora discovers there are plenty of suspects to choose from. Things get more complicated with a second killing.
With help from the inimitable Nick and his Scrabble tiles, they’re hot on the trail of who is killing off the Hollywood crowd. But it’s not without jeopardy, and Nora soon finds herself in need of Nick’s help to get out of a dangerous situation.
In this sixth in the Nick and Nora mystery series, author T. C. LoTempio does not disappoint fans. Spend time with some favorite characters, meet some new ones and cheer on Nick and Nora in solving their latest whodunit.
With help from the inimitable Nick and his Scrabble tiles, they’re hot on the trail of who is killing off the Hollywood crowd. But it’s not without jeopardy, and Nora soon finds herself in need of Nick’s help to get out of a dangerous situation.
In this sixth in the Nick and Nora mystery series, author T. C. LoTempio does not disappoint fans. Spend time with some favorite characters, meet some new ones and cheer on Nick and Nora in solving their latest whodunit.
March 2, 2023
Have you ever been hooked on a soap opera? During college I got hooked on Days of Our Lives, Another World, and Santa Barbara. Then I got hooked on Knots Landing for a while. A couple of “my stories” got cancelled, and then my kids got old enough to understand what was going on on Days, so I quit watching. Then the soaps got ridiculous, so I would have quit watching anyway! Drama, drama, drama. It’s what gets you hooked on them! Many residents in Nora Charles’s town, Cruz, are hooked on the nighttime soap opera that comes to Cruz to shoot some scenes. Not Nora! But her sister and friends are, and they’re thrilled that Nora is catering for the cast and crew.
So, we know that soaps are full of drama, and so is this one! Unfortunately, the drama behind the scenes is worse than those in front of the camera! There are a whole bunch of whiny, self-absorbed actors, directors, etc. It’s surprising that they haven’t killed each other…well, then someone does. And, of course, Nora’s cat Nick sniffs out the body, and Nora is once again in the middle of a murder mystery.
I really enjoyed A PURR before DYING . It’s the sixth book in the series, and I’ve read most of them. I’m very attached to the wonderful characters in the series. They’ve got well-developed personalities, and I can’t wait to see what the future holds for them…especially for Nora in the romance department. Though it’s not necessary for you to have read the previous books in order to enjoy this since the mysteries are resolved in each book, you will enjoy the characters more if you do read them in order.
If you love cozy mystery books with cats, great characters, yummy food descriptions, and twisty mysteries, you will love A PURR Before DYING!
So, we know that soaps are full of drama, and so is this one! Unfortunately, the drama behind the scenes is worse than those in front of the camera! There are a whole bunch of whiny, self-absorbed actors, directors, etc. It’s surprising that they haven’t killed each other…well, then someone does. And, of course, Nora’s cat Nick sniffs out the body, and Nora is once again in the middle of a murder mystery.
I really enjoyed A PURR before DYING . It’s the sixth book in the series, and I’ve read most of them. I’m very attached to the wonderful characters in the series. They’ve got well-developed personalities, and I can’t wait to see what the future holds for them…especially for Nora in the romance department. Though it’s not necessary for you to have read the previous books in order to enjoy this since the mysteries are resolved in each book, you will enjoy the characters more if you do read them in order.
If you love cozy mystery books with cats, great characters, yummy food descriptions, and twisty mysteries, you will love A PURR Before DYING!
February 21, 2023
2 1/2 stars. The jealousies and romantic switchups behind the scenes of a nightime soap opera are just as dramatic as anything in the script, Nora discovers when she is hired to be the caterer during the filming of the show in her town for a couple of weeks. Things get really dicey when Nora discovers the director murdered and her good friend's brother accused of the crime. Nick and Nora are determined to find out the real culprit but if they are careful they just may be scripted as the next victims...
A fun cozy with a great cat sidekick. Seeing some of the behind-the-scenes action is interesting to read. I enjoyed it and anyone who likes cozies with a cat helping out in the investigations will love this series.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for an ARC in return for an honest review.
A fun cozy with a great cat sidekick. Seeing some of the behind-the-scenes action is interesting to read. I enjoyed it and anyone who likes cozies with a cat helping out in the investigations will love this series.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for an ARC in return for an honest review.
February 24, 2023
A soap opera has come to town to film and Nora Charles has won the catering contract. On set, there's a lot of drama both on screen and off. But things get bad when Nora finds the body of the director and they get even messier when another crew member is killed. When the brother of her best friend is arrested, Nora begins investigating along with her tuxedo cat, Nick.
This is a fantastic series, and this book is no exception. it was a quick, fun read that was fairly well-written. There were a few typos and minor grammatical errors which is why I give the book 4 1/2 stars. The characters are wonderful, and I absolutely love Nick! I was drawn into this engaging story and kept hooked throughout. I'm eager for another book and highly recommend both book and series which I think is best read in order.
This is a fantastic series, and this book is no exception. it was a quick, fun read that was fairly well-written. There were a few typos and minor grammatical errors which is why I give the book 4 1/2 stars. The characters are wonderful, and I absolutely love Nick! I was drawn into this engaging story and kept hooked throughout. I'm eager for another book and highly recommend both book and series which I think is best read in order.
February 22, 2023
Culinary Cozy With Recipes
A tale of intrigue. Nora’s sandwich shop is doing great, but her beau is out of town. When she gets a lucrative catering contract, she’s over the moon...until someone dies. She’s nosy, but when her best friend’s brother is arrested, she’s determined to find out the truth.
With the help of her cat Nick and a P.I friend, she uncovers info...and continues to push for more, even though she’s been advised to stop by her FBI friend.
I requested and received a NetGalley ARC to peruse gratis and offer my opinion in the same. It is a fun enjoyable read, it took me about a day because I found it hard to put it down.
A tale of intrigue. Nora’s sandwich shop is doing great, but her beau is out of town. When she gets a lucrative catering contract, she’s over the moon...until someone dies. She’s nosy, but when her best friend’s brother is arrested, she’s determined to find out the truth.
With the help of her cat Nick and a P.I friend, she uncovers info...and continues to push for more, even though she’s been advised to stop by her FBI friend.
I requested and received a NetGalley ARC to peruse gratis and offer my opinion in the same. It is a fun enjoyable read, it took me about a day because I found it hard to put it down.
March 12, 2023
This is the sixth in the series. Nora Charles’ shop Hot Bread has the catering contract for the two-week shoot for this soap opera. It turns deadly and Chantal’s brother is the main suspect.
Since the police believe they have the killer, they aren’t looking any farther. So, Nick & Nora must get involved.
As with many artists, egos, secrets and backstabbing come into play in the murder. There are plenty of suspects as the victim isn’t well-loved.
I was entertained and am looking forward to the next book.
I was given an advanced reader’s copy by Netgalley and am not required to write a positive review.
Since the police believe they have the killer, they aren’t looking any farther. So, Nick & Nora must get involved.
As with many artists, egos, secrets and backstabbing come into play in the murder. There are plenty of suspects as the victim isn’t well-loved.
I was entertained and am looking forward to the next book.
I was given an advanced reader’s copy by Netgalley and am not required to write a positive review.
March 26, 2023
I love this series and should definitely go back and read the installments I missed. It’s fun that Nora has gone from amateur sleuth to PI, and the fact that her sidekick is a crime-solving cat always makes me smile. I especially enjoy Nick’s scrabble tile clues - it’s such a clever aspect to their crime-solving!
I enjoyed the twists and turns in this plot. There were so many different aspects from jealous coworkers to spurned lovers and even some underlying crime.
I wish Det Anderson was a little less difficult, particularly as Nora is a PI.
Can’t wait to go back and read what I missed.
Thank you to #NetGalley and #BeyondthePage for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I enjoyed the twists and turns in this plot. There were so many different aspects from jealous coworkers to spurned lovers and even some underlying crime.
I wish Det Anderson was a little less difficult, particularly as Nora is a PI.
Can’t wait to go back and read what I missed.
Thank you to #NetGalley and #BeyondthePage for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
February 17, 2023
Although this is the sixth book in the series, I had no problem joining in on the escapades of Nora (a caterer) and Nick (an adorable kitty cat!) which mixes solving a crime and a little bit of romance...no matter how silly the reason for dating Sam was.
I will recommend this to anyone looking for a cozy mystery read that has PG rated and has no shades of grey anywhere. I will also recommend all of T. C. LoTempio's books (we have every single one of them on our shelves) as they are well written and enjoyable as well.
#shortbutsweetreviews
I will recommend this to anyone looking for a cozy mystery read that has PG rated and has no shades of grey anywhere. I will also recommend all of T. C. LoTempio's books (we have every single one of them on our shelves) as they are well written and enjoyable as well.
#shortbutsweetreviews
February 25, 2023
I do so enjoy these Nick and Nora cozies. Nick is cute, delightful and smart. Nora is sassy, smart and doesn't take anyone's guff. A true winning detective team.
This book takes place when Nora is set to cater a nighttime soap filming in Cruz, California. As one would expect, high drama ensues both in front of and behind the cameras. When the much hated director winds up dead, the list of who didn't want to kill him is shorter than the suspect list. Nora gets involved when her BFF Chantal's brother is wrongly accused of the crime.
While I did figure out whodunnit, Nick's antics made me adore the story all the more. I am a big fan of the inspiration behind Nick and Nora. I hope there are many more in this delightful series!
My thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for this ARC. Opinions in this review are my own.
This book takes place when Nora is set to cater a nighttime soap filming in Cruz, California. As one would expect, high drama ensues both in front of and behind the cameras. When the much hated director winds up dead, the list of who didn't want to kill him is shorter than the suspect list. Nora gets involved when her BFF Chantal's brother is wrongly accused of the crime.
While I did figure out whodunnit, Nick's antics made me adore the story all the more. I am a big fan of the inspiration behind Nick and Nora. I hope there are many more in this delightful series!
My thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for this ARC. Opinions in this review are my own.
February 27, 2023
I love Nick&Nora mysteries and I can say this is one of my favorite series. I hope there's will be a lot more instalments but - PLEASE - no more love triangle as Nora is a strong women and it seems a bit unrealistic that she's not able to choose.
That said this is a solid and entertaining mystery full of twists, fast paced, and entertaining.
I thoroughly enjoyed it (expect for the romantic side) and can't wait to read the next one.
Recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher for this arc, all opinions are mine
That said this is a solid and entertaining mystery full of twists, fast paced, and entertaining.
I thoroughly enjoyed it (expect for the romantic side) and can't wait to read the next one.
Recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher for this arc, all opinions are mine
March 19, 2023
Definitely 100+ stars!
Drama, humour, and a tad touch of romance! And, of course, there's Nick!!! That cat is the best!! Still wondering if maybe he isn't the human detective, Nick, that just disappeared. Some how his soul got into the cat. Gives ya something to think about -- right???? This mystery had a great story line with a few twists and turns that definitely kept me guessing. I really love this series and wish it wasn't so long between books! The Nick and Nora series is one of my favorites!!!
Drama, humour, and a tad touch of romance! And, of course, there's Nick!!! That cat is the best!! Still wondering if maybe he isn't the human detective, Nick, that just disappeared. Some how his soul got into the cat. Gives ya something to think about -- right???? This mystery had a great story line with a few twists and turns that definitely kept me guessing. I really love this series and wish it wasn't so long between books! The Nick and Nora series is one of my favorites!!!
June 25, 2023
Nora is excited to be catering the tv production unit in town filming a soap opera. She and her sister and best friend are balancing the diner and the catering job. Her helper and cat, Nick are called upon to investigate the death of one of the stars and there is a long line of suspects. This is part of the Nick and Nora series and can be read as a stand alone. With Nick able to communicate with Nora via Scrabble tiles he is a major help. An enjoyable cozy series especially for readers who like pets in their cozy’s.
November 17, 2024
Once again Nick the cat saves the day! This time on a movie set. Nick and human Nora have been asked to cater a nighttime soap where the director has replaced his mentor. The director gets murdered, and Chantal's brother is a suspect, but Nora thinks it's a set up; Nick gets a part but because of danger cannot show but gets paid anyway. Add in hunky Leo Samms where looks are deceiving - especially with Sexy Dale Anderson! Hopefully, Chantal's cards can guide Nora to love but the future can be murky!
February 14, 2023
Nick was an adorable feline who acted as if he had some sort of paranormal attributes. Together, he and Nora made a great sleuthing team. Faced with three puzzling mysterious deaths, Nora and Nick were caught in a race with time, trying to solve the three mysterious deaths before her friend’s brother got charged with the murder of one. I like the romantic mix, especially liked how it was Sam alone in the picture, although her reason for choosing Sam was hogwash.
May 7, 2023
The cover design caught my eye, and I thought this looked and sounded like my kind of book.
This was a fun and entertaining cosy mystery. The protagonist's cat seemed to have an important part to play in the story, and I felt the author gave him a personality of his own - he was very loveable and charming. I think this is the type of book that I can always rely on to make me smile and cheer me up.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publishers for a free copy to review.
This was a fun and entertaining cosy mystery. The protagonist's cat seemed to have an important part to play in the story, and I felt the author gave him a personality of his own - he was very loveable and charming. I think this is the type of book that I can always rely on to make me smile and cheer me up.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publishers for a free copy to review.
March 8, 2023
A nice addition to a charming series. The cat antics always make me think of the "Cat Who..." books. A little too strange for me but a fun inclusion to the story. As a fan of the Thin Man series, I enjoy the names. Thrilled that I early on suspected the correct person of the crimes. Convoluted cozy mystery. Thanks to the publisher for providing a copy via NetGalley. My review is voluntary.
December 18, 2023
I enjoy this series. The mystery kept me guessing and I like the characters. However, I'd still like to know what is going on with Nick's previous owner. We didn't hear from him at all.
Thank you to the author, the publisher and NetGalley for my eARC in exchange for an honest review
Thank you to the author, the publisher and NetGalley for my eARC in exchange for an honest review
February 12, 2023
A decent read. Not too bad.
February 17, 2023
A truly delightful cozy series.
I love the characters and the whodunit was intriguing, entertaining and well paced.
I cannot wait to read the next in the series.
I voluntarily reviewed and advance reader copy of this book.
I love the characters and the whodunit was intriguing, entertaining and well paced.
I cannot wait to read the next in the series.
I voluntarily reviewed and advance reader copy of this book.
February 21, 2023
An enjoyable comfortable read. I received this as an advance copy from the author via NetGalley and am leaving this review voluntarily.
January 5, 2024
Love this series.
December 10, 2024
Solid addition in my point of view. I liked the mystery and I like nick and Nora so much. I like Lacey too and can’t wait for the 8th one to come out.
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