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A Fat Cat Mystery #1
Fat Cat At Large
FIRST IN A NEW SERIES!
When she’s not dreaming up irresistible dessert bars for her Minneapolis treatery, Bar None, Charity “Chase” Oliver is running after her cat, Quincy—a tubby tabby with a gift for sniffing out edibles. But what happens when this cat burglar leads Chase to the scene of a real crime?
The jig is up for Chase’s adorable plus-size cat, Quincy. His new vet says “diet”—that means no more cherry cheesecake bars. From now on he gets low-calorie kibble only. But one taste of the stuff is all it takes to drive him in search of better things. Quincy’s escape is the last thing Chase needs after the nasty run-in she has with underhanded business rival Gabe Naughtly.
Chase tracks Quincy down in a neighbor’s kitchen, where he’s devouring a meatloaf, unaware of the much more serious crime he’s stumbled upon. Gabe’s corpse is lying on the kitchen floor, and when Chase is discovered at the murder scene, she becomes suspect number one. Now, with a little help from her friends—both human and feline—she’ll have to catch the real killer or wind up behind bars that aren’t so sweet.
Includes recipes for people and cats!
When she’s not dreaming up irresistible dessert bars for her Minneapolis treatery, Bar None, Charity “Chase” Oliver is running after her cat, Quincy—a tubby tabby with a gift for sniffing out edibles. But what happens when this cat burglar leads Chase to the scene of a real crime?
The jig is up for Chase’s adorable plus-size cat, Quincy. His new vet says “diet”—that means no more cherry cheesecake bars. From now on he gets low-calorie kibble only. But one taste of the stuff is all it takes to drive him in search of better things. Quincy’s escape is the last thing Chase needs after the nasty run-in she has with underhanded business rival Gabe Naughtly.
Chase tracks Quincy down in a neighbor’s kitchen, where he’s devouring a meatloaf, unaware of the much more serious crime he’s stumbled upon. Gabe’s corpse is lying on the kitchen floor, and when Chase is discovered at the murder scene, she becomes suspect number one. Now, with a little help from her friends—both human and feline—she’ll have to catch the real killer or wind up behind bars that aren’t so sweet.
Includes recipes for people and cats!
291 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published September 2, 2014
56 people are currently reading
1261 people want to read
About the author
Janet Cantrell
3 books159 followersJanet Cantrell is a pen name for Kaye George, Agatha nominated novelist and short story writer. She belongs to Sisters in Crime, Guppies, and Austin Mystery Writers. Her national bestselling cozy Fat Cat mystery series features Quincy, a pudgy, adorable cat who is an accomplished escape artist. Especially when he’s on a diet and hungry. Leave it to Quincy to lead his human, Chase, co-owner of a Minneapolis dessert bar shop, into trouble. Janet lives in Knoxville TN with her husband. Her recently departed feline, Agamemnon, is a source for some of Quincy’s antics. Visit http://janetcantrell.com/ for more details.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 180 reviews
April 29, 2016
So glad I got this at the library. As a matter of fact, I was so sure I'd at least moderately like the series that I checked out the first two books. It's rare for me to give a cozy less than 3 stars, but oh, how I hated Chase. I think I only made it to about 40 pages and I couldn't take it any more. I just wanted to reach into the pages and bitch slap her. What an idiot, getting upset at the vet both for his comments about the cat's weight and wording about her possibly feeding him wrong. She KNEW the cat was overweight and she KNEW SOMEONE wasn't following the cat's new diet, so what if it wasn't her? She made no effort to stop it. On the business front, her employees are fighting and she does nothing, money is missing and she does nothing, an employee's boyfriend is stealing (at least food) and she does nothing. She assumes the boyfriend is stealing the money from the register, but there's no indication he's been behind the counter. She poorly communicates with her business partner who RAISED her after her parents died about these issues. Her business sense is non-existent. She "thinks" money is missing. You run a report on the register and count the money, there's no ifs or buts if the money doesn't match the report. The cat is kept locked in the office right off the kitchen, yet she lives right above the shop, why isn't the cat in the apartment? Health code violations!!! Especially since the cat keeps getting out, not only into the kitchen, but outdoors which involves urgent searching, abandoning work. Again, this was all in about the first 40 pages.
I find it very hard to stop reading a book, but just couldn't take it.
I find it very hard to stop reading a book, but just couldn't take it.
August 27, 2019
From the book jacket: When she’s not dreaming up irresistible dessert bars for her Minneapolis treatery, Bar None Charity “Chase” Oliver is running after her cat, Quincy – a tubby tabby with a gift for sniffing out edibles. But what happens when this cat burglar leads Chase to the scene of a real crime?
My Reactions:
Great premise, set in a city I love, with a lovely cat. But this amateur sleuth is just too stupid to live. My stars but Chase got on my nerves. She is whiny and a terrible businesswoman. The supporting cast is anything but. Her business partner is keeping secrets from her and even suspects her of stealing. Her employees are at each other’s throats (literally having a “cat fight” in the front of the store before storming out), and the “hot” vet seems a little creepy to me.
Oh, well, it was a fast read and it satisfied a challenge, but I’m in no hurry to continue to series.
My Reactions:
Great premise, set in a city I love, with a lovely cat. But this amateur sleuth is just too stupid to live. My stars but Chase got on my nerves. She is whiny and a terrible businesswoman. The supporting cast is anything but. Her business partner is keeping secrets from her and even suspects her of stealing. Her employees are at each other’s throats (literally having a “cat fight” in the front of the store before storming out), and the “hot” vet seems a little creepy to me.
Oh, well, it was a fast read and it satisfied a challenge, but I’m in no hurry to continue to series.
December 11, 2020
Well I was very pleasantly surprised by this one! I absolutely loved it!! What a great book. I would most definitely recommend this one.
January 10, 2015
I am so glad there are other cat mystery series out there because this one was lame. It took me a week and half to finish this book for the sole reason that I just wasn't interested in it. I can never abandon a book though, so I powered through.
The idea behind the book was decent but the writing and plot development never lived up to it's full potential. I found myself rolling my eyes at the characters and their interactions. It was hard to believe the main character was over thirty when she sounded like a whiny, panicked fourteen year old. Not to mention, she withheld information from the police all the while dreaming about his "dark blue eyes full of ice." But, wait, I thought she was dating the vet who was treating her unhealthily fat cat? Though, how can she decide who to date when she's busy running around town contaminating all the murder crime scenes with her fingerprints.
Haha! I could keep going for so many reasons, but I might as well stop here. Bottom line, the writing should have been edited and redone before ever being published... but there was a cute cat involved, so: 2 Stars!
The idea behind the book was decent but the writing and plot development never lived up to it's full potential. I found myself rolling my eyes at the characters and their interactions. It was hard to believe the main character was over thirty when she sounded like a whiny, panicked fourteen year old. Not to mention, she withheld information from the police all the while dreaming about his "dark blue eyes full of ice." But, wait, I thought she was dating the vet who was treating her unhealthily fat cat? Though, how can she decide who to date when she's busy running around town contaminating all the murder crime scenes with her fingerprints.
Haha! I could keep going for so many reasons, but I might as well stop here. Bottom line, the writing should have been edited and redone before ever being published... but there was a cute cat involved, so: 2 Stars!
August 9, 2014
I loved this book !!
The story and the characters, especially Charity, had a lot going on. Even though there were a lot of things going on and people involved, you are never confused or lost. The setting is in a very quaint town, main focus being a dessert bar bakery. At times I felt like I could smell what they were baking, too bad I couldnt taste them.
And the trouble that Charity continues to get herself in with the help of her cat Quincy is borderline comical, except for the dead bodies stacking up. Not to mention the possible murder suspects adding up as well. I was thoroughly engrossed in the story and just when I had an idea as to the murderer, something else would happen to make me think differently.
I would give this book more than a 5 star rating for sure. Janet Cantrell has a smash hit with this first book and I look forward to her next.....
The story and the characters, especially Charity, had a lot going on. Even though there were a lot of things going on and people involved, you are never confused or lost. The setting is in a very quaint town, main focus being a dessert bar bakery. At times I felt like I could smell what they were baking, too bad I couldnt taste them.
And the trouble that Charity continues to get herself in with the help of her cat Quincy is borderline comical, except for the dead bodies stacking up. Not to mention the possible murder suspects adding up as well. I was thoroughly engrossed in the story and just when I had an idea as to the murderer, something else would happen to make me think differently.
I would give this book more than a 5 star rating for sure. Janet Cantrell has a smash hit with this first book and I look forward to her next.....
June 22, 2016
4-1/2 Stars! Chase Oliver runs a dessert bar shop, Bar None. Her rescue cat, Quincy, is overweight, and his vet, the attractive Dr. Ramos, orders a strict diet for him. Chase's business partner, Anna, who's in her seventies, loves to slip Quincy sweet treats so the diet isn't going well. Quincy loves to run outside when the shop doors open, and one of his escapes leads Chase to a murder victim's house. The plot is filled with red herrings galore to throw you off the trail of the real killer. Chase & Anna also have to solve a mystery of missing cash in their shop. Quincy may be fat, but he's sweet and lovable, and I loved the way the author wrote "his thoughts " into each chapter. I thoroughly enjoyed this debut cozy.
August 30, 2014
This was a great book in the first of a new series. I love the characters, and especially Quincy the cat. He is really the star of the book. He lives with his owner, Chase, who runs a bakery with her friend Anna. Quincy is an overweight cat who loves treats, and leads his owner into lots of trouble. This is a fun fast read, and I look forward to the next book in the series.
November 29, 2014
Disappointing....I just never connected to the heroine -- she wasn't very likable and she didn't take very good care of her cat.
September 2, 2014
I got this book free from the author. this is my honest review.
Quincy, the cat, in need of a good diet, leads his owner, Charity Oliver, into trouble big time!! Charity, better known a Chase, and her friend, Anna, own the Minneapolis Bar None bakery. Quincy is great at eating all the yummy treats that he can beg off of them. Unfortunately for Quincy, his vet has ordered a fat reducing diet for him, and Quincy wants no part of it. Good at sneaking out of any available door opening, Quincy escapes out and away to a lovely meatloaf dinner inside another available open door. When Chase finally finds Quincy enjoying his meal, she also finds the stabbed body of the man she just had a loud argument with in her Bar None Shop. So when the police show up and see this scene, Chase must go on her own "chase" for the real killer.
This is a fun new series with an adorable cat that seems to be the king of his own domain. He not only wins the heart of those around him, he's gotten Chase to develop his own healthy Bar Treats that taste good and is healthy for cats. The fact that his vet seems to like Chase, and the policeman investigating the murders seems to like Chase too, are added bonuses. The relationship between the owners is one of my favorite kinds---Chase and Anna have "chosen" to be related as might a granddaughter be to her grandmother. And Anna's real granddaughter is Chase's best friend. Expect these three have many great adventures awaiting them as Quincy continues to venture away from home. Recipes are included for both cat and human treats.
Quincy, the cat, in need of a good diet, leads his owner, Charity Oliver, into trouble big time!! Charity, better known a Chase, and her friend, Anna, own the Minneapolis Bar None bakery. Quincy is great at eating all the yummy treats that he can beg off of them. Unfortunately for Quincy, his vet has ordered a fat reducing diet for him, and Quincy wants no part of it. Good at sneaking out of any available door opening, Quincy escapes out and away to a lovely meatloaf dinner inside another available open door. When Chase finally finds Quincy enjoying his meal, she also finds the stabbed body of the man she just had a loud argument with in her Bar None Shop. So when the police show up and see this scene, Chase must go on her own "chase" for the real killer.
This is a fun new series with an adorable cat that seems to be the king of his own domain. He not only wins the heart of those around him, he's gotten Chase to develop his own healthy Bar Treats that taste good and is healthy for cats. The fact that his vet seems to like Chase, and the policeman investigating the murders seems to like Chase too, are added bonuses. The relationship between the owners is one of my favorite kinds---Chase and Anna have "chosen" to be related as might a granddaughter be to her grandmother. And Anna's real granddaughter is Chase's best friend. Expect these three have many great adventures awaiting them as Quincy continues to venture away from home. Recipes are included for both cat and human treats.
May 6, 2016
If Fat Cat At Large by Janet Cantrell had been my first cozy mystery, I don't believe I would ever read that sub-genre again. Why did I choose this one to begin with? I needed a title with rhyming words for a reading challenge.
I didn't care for the main character, Chase Oliver, at all. For a grown woman and owner of a successful bakery, she was whiny and just plain annoying. The plot development was slow and tedious. I didn't care to read about every thought and step Chase took along the way to possibly solving the crime. I will read cozy mysteries again, just not this series.
Go Cards! L1C4!!!
I didn't care for the main character, Chase Oliver, at all. For a grown woman and owner of a successful bakery, she was whiny and just plain annoying. The plot development was slow and tedious. I didn't care to read about every thought and step Chase took along the way to possibly solving the crime. I will read cozy mysteries again, just not this series.
Go Cards! L1C4!!!
September 20, 2016
Meh. I don't think I'm a fan of these types of books - I don't want to be insulting and call them cheap by-numbers mysteries, but they all do seem the same to me, and I've only read a couple. I'll probably read the ones I've already got and just not buy any more.
The writing is very flat and very 'tell, don't show' much of the time, and the characters were pretty two-dimensional. I didn't care about the romance aspect because it was just dull and I didn't care about the characters. There were too many people, not enough cat.
It is what it is. Anyone who likes this style of book will probably like this one. It's just not my cup of tea.
I won't spoil it, but I will say that I knew who the killer was by page 20, and I turned out to be right, and that's why it gets two stars instead of one. ;)
The writing is very flat and very 'tell, don't show' much of the time, and the characters were pretty two-dimensional. I didn't care about the romance aspect because it was just dull and I didn't care about the characters. There were too many people, not enough cat.
It is what it is. Anyone who likes this style of book will probably like this one. It's just not my cup of tea.
I won't spoil it, but I will say that I knew who the killer was by page 20, and I turned out to be right, and that's why it gets two stars instead of one. ;)
June 26, 2015
Lack of character development makes for a diffuse mystery in this new cozy series. While the dead body appears in the first half of the book, there is virtually no real sleuthing. Instead, the protagonist (Chase) and the other main female characters sidestep around daily issues because no one is able to be honest and direct. Chase even admits to the inability to deal with confrontation, which doesn't leave much room for her to act as a protagonist, much less a business owner. So instead of trying to figure out who the murderer is, there is weird behavior, insinuations, and hurt feelings because someone is stealing money from the cash register of their store, Bar None. Instead of solving the problem (difference cash trays, cameras) there is pussyfooting and lots of upset feelings.
The second half focuses more on the murder, but Chase is more passive than proactive -- always being the victim. The repetitive plot devices of the murderer and the cat don't forward the plot and make the conclusion fairly obvious from the get go. With the exception of Chase and her closest friends, the female characters are all sheisty and self involved. Overall there is a lack of common sense, even in the final reveal where the motivation for murder isn't supported by the money.
The second half focuses more on the murder, but Chase is more passive than proactive -- always being the victim. The repetitive plot devices of the murderer and the cat don't forward the plot and make the conclusion fairly obvious from the get go. With the exception of Chase and her closest friends, the female characters are all sheisty and self involved. Overall there is a lack of common sense, even in the final reveal where the motivation for murder isn't supported by the money.
November 13, 2016
When I read the ratings on this book I thought maybe I wouldn't be able to make it through. It wasn't as bad as some people thought, granted it wasn't the best book either. There are valid points in the reviews such as: spelling and grammar errors, predictability, and the cat being annoying. I also was annoyed that the author felt we needed to know what show tune the main character was humming. However, the story moved along and kept me interested. The storyline itself is not believable. I can see that given we all are different and have different tastes that some people would really love this book and others would say "meh!" For me I would say "hmmm!"
June 18, 2015
Ummmmmm....just no. Silly immature main character, who didn't deserve the cat. Also, there's a triangle situation here. Hate that. Great cat. The end.
October 9, 2016
Fat Cat At Large is a big NO for me! The characters all were very whiny. I had a hard time connecting with the characters.
June 17, 2021
2.5/5
September 10, 2014
Ooohhhh…a story about an overweight, lovable cat named Quincy. How could I possibly resist this one? Well, of course, I couldn’t. I loved this book from the cover through every page in between.
Chase runs a dessert bar shop with her best friend’s grandmother, Anna. When money starts to disappear from the business, Anna begins to suspect Chase. Chase is disappointed to be a suspect but she knows she’s innocent and intends to find out exactly who is behind this. Then, after Chase has a nasty argument with a local business rival, Gabe Naughtly is found dead and Chase is the number one suspect. In fact, she appears to be the only suspect. Again, she knows she’s innocent, so it’s up to her to find out who the real killer is.
In the meantime, Chase’s cat, Quincy, has been put on a strict diet by the local vet – who happens to be very handsome and interested in chase – but Quincy isn’t happy. He’s so unhappy that he manages to escape to get his claws into some real food. Chase and the vet are a bit perplexed as to why Quincy is gaining weight on his diet.
Chase’s concerns keep mounting, but her primary issue is keeping herself out of jail. Things get even worse when another dead body is found and, once again, Chase is the primary suspect.
Being a cat lover, I will say right from the start that I love Quincy and I wanted to take him home and cuddle him, even if he is fiction :) The rest of the characters…well, I adored Chase. I think she is a tough, strong sleuth who may do some stupid things and make the wrong decisions, but she’s only trying to find out the truth. She has strong motivation – keeping herself out of prison. After all, the police seem satisfied with blaming her for the crimes.
As for the rest of the characters, I alternated between being suspicious of all of them, liking them and some really not liking at all. I must admit, I did figure out who did it early on in the book. I had my suspicions which turned out to be true. I don’t want to say anymore so I don’t giveaway any of the plot. There's also some romance mixed in and Chase may find herself caught between two handsome guys. We'll have to see how it plays out in future books.
It’s a fast-paced book and can be read in just a couple of days. It makes for a great weekend read.
Being the cat lover that I am, although I don’t think you have to be one to read this, I’m looking forward to book #2 and reading more adventures of Quincy. This is a great beginning to a brand new series.
FTC Disclosure: The publisher provided me with a copy of this book to review for this blog tour. This did not influence my thoughts and opinions in any way. All opinions expressed are my own.
Chase runs a dessert bar shop with her best friend’s grandmother, Anna. When money starts to disappear from the business, Anna begins to suspect Chase. Chase is disappointed to be a suspect but she knows she’s innocent and intends to find out exactly who is behind this. Then, after Chase has a nasty argument with a local business rival, Gabe Naughtly is found dead and Chase is the number one suspect. In fact, she appears to be the only suspect. Again, she knows she’s innocent, so it’s up to her to find out who the real killer is.
In the meantime, Chase’s cat, Quincy, has been put on a strict diet by the local vet – who happens to be very handsome and interested in chase – but Quincy isn’t happy. He’s so unhappy that he manages to escape to get his claws into some real food. Chase and the vet are a bit perplexed as to why Quincy is gaining weight on his diet.
Chase’s concerns keep mounting, but her primary issue is keeping herself out of jail. Things get even worse when another dead body is found and, once again, Chase is the primary suspect.
Being a cat lover, I will say right from the start that I love Quincy and I wanted to take him home and cuddle him, even if he is fiction :) The rest of the characters…well, I adored Chase. I think she is a tough, strong sleuth who may do some stupid things and make the wrong decisions, but she’s only trying to find out the truth. She has strong motivation – keeping herself out of prison. After all, the police seem satisfied with blaming her for the crimes.
As for the rest of the characters, I alternated between being suspicious of all of them, liking them and some really not liking at all. I must admit, I did figure out who did it early on in the book. I had my suspicions which turned out to be true. I don’t want to say anymore so I don’t giveaway any of the plot. There's also some romance mixed in and Chase may find herself caught between two handsome guys. We'll have to see how it plays out in future books.
It’s a fast-paced book and can be read in just a couple of days. It makes for a great weekend read.
Being the cat lover that I am, although I don’t think you have to be one to read this, I’m looking forward to book #2 and reading more adventures of Quincy. This is a great beginning to a brand new series.
FTC Disclosure: The publisher provided me with a copy of this book to review for this blog tour. This did not influence my thoughts and opinions in any way. All opinions expressed are my own.
September 4, 2014
Quincy is one determined fat cat that hasn't met a meal that he did not like and he will stop at nothing to get the all yummy goodies that his owner, Chase Oliver sells at Bar None a shop that specializes in Dessert Bars, even if it means escaping from his owner's clutches.Chase takes Quincy to the vet only to find out that the handsome vet, Dr. Mike Ramos is putting him on a strict diet of LOW CALORIE cat food. Her business is in dire staits with her coworkers in full out brawls and to top it all off she has a confrontation with a business rival, Gabe Naughtly, that wants her business.
To top all that off, Quincy once again makes a great ESCAPE to a neighbor's kitchen, where he is eventually found by Chase chowing down on their meatloaf dinner and then to Chase's horror she discovers Gabe's dead body lying on the kitchen floor and becomes the main suspect. Her co workers/slash need to come together to come together to help Chase out because a life behind bars would not be as sweet.
You can't help but love this fun loving cat, Quincy with a heart of gold and a appetite to match. This is a quirky and clever cozy mystery, that leaves your mouth watering if you have a sweet tooth. Characters that are coming right off the page. An irresistible first in a series with delicious sweet treats. With a little bit of romance in the mix. Quincy has a keen eye for finding food and dead bodies that you can't help but love. I can't wait to go on another great ESCAPE with Quincy with the next book in this winning series.
June 22, 2019
To do list after reading this mystery:
1. Cuddle with a fat cat.
2. Eat a million dessert bars.
The best character in this book is by far Quincy, the fat cat. So cute and lovable. His curiosity takes him on little adventures outside the Bar None bakery. One of these outings leads him to a murder victim and his owner Charity is the prime suspect. This mystery has feuding shop owners, fighting staff, missing cash, shady business deals, and a budding romance. Great cozy mystery for cat lovers and/or dessert lovers!
1. Cuddle with a fat cat.
2. Eat a million dessert bars.
The best character in this book is by far Quincy, the fat cat. So cute and lovable. His curiosity takes him on little adventures outside the Bar None bakery. One of these outings leads him to a murder victim and his owner Charity is the prime suspect. This mystery has feuding shop owners, fighting staff, missing cash, shady business deals, and a budding romance. Great cozy mystery for cat lovers and/or dessert lovers!
July 10, 2015
On the cozy mystery scale of 1 to Coco, I give this a 6. An enjoyable read to be sure but it lacked enough perspective from Quincy, the true main character. I will definitely be checking out more in the fat cat series in the future!
December 24, 2014
There are some books that start out with a cute concept, charming characters and captivating plots that keep you turning pages until the end.
This book, I'm sorry to say, isn't one of them.
This book, I'm sorry to say, isn't one of them.
March 5, 2016
It had been a long time since I had read a light, fluffy mystery novel, and this one was perfect!
June 28, 2017
This is a story about Quincy, a portly ginger tabby, who stumbles across a dead body after he escapes his person's bakery to find food. It appears that Quincy really loves treats and has been ordered to endure diet cat food which he absolutely hates. What's a cat to do? Well, Quincy keeps getting loose in search of delicious food, that's what.
Charity, the protagonist, is co-owner of Bar None, a bakery that seems to only sell a variety of 4 different dessert bars. She loves Quincy like no other, she even takes him to work with her - in a bakery. I'm not entirely sure why she brings him to work since she lives in the apartment above the bakery or how this arrangement is not in violation with any health codes. Side note, considering how many times the health inspector has been to the Bar None and not discovered Quincy makes me think someone is not doing their job. But Quincy, none-the-less joins Charity and the other gals at work everyday, trapped in the office. To help bide his time, Anna, the other co-owner of Bar None, slips Quincy treats throughout the story which just packs on the pounds.
One day, a Quincy dashes out the door - of the bakery - Charity chases him down a residential street to a condo/townhouse with a door slightly ajar. So she goes right on inside and finds her beloved Quincy helping himself to the tenant's meatloaf. When Charity goes to get Quincy she discovers the body of her nemesis, the evil Gabe Naughtly.
Chaos ensues. Ok not really just a bunch of situations I couldn't fully believe in. Like how come she has such a weird relationship with the Anna? Anna supposedly raised her. Why does she keep bringing Quincy to work with her just to leave him in her office? Why are their so many murders in a small town and no one seems to notice? How can they have so much business in such a small town? Why does everyone who shops there seem to buy dozens and dozens of dessert bars? Why does everyone cry so much? Who the hell hyperfocuses on buttons? I didn't even know designer buttons were a thing!
Anyway, would I read it again - no. Am I reading the next one - probably.
Charity, the protagonist, is co-owner of Bar None, a bakery that seems to only sell a variety of 4 different dessert bars. She loves Quincy like no other, she even takes him to work with her - in a bakery. I'm not entirely sure why she brings him to work since she lives in the apartment above the bakery or how this arrangement is not in violation with any health codes. Side note, considering how many times the health inspector has been to the Bar None and not discovered Quincy makes me think someone is not doing their job. But Quincy, none-the-less joins Charity and the other gals at work everyday, trapped in the office. To help bide his time, Anna, the other co-owner of Bar None, slips Quincy treats throughout the story which just packs on the pounds.
One day, a Quincy dashes out the door - of the bakery - Charity chases him down a residential street to a condo/townhouse with a door slightly ajar. So she goes right on inside and finds her beloved Quincy helping himself to the tenant's meatloaf. When Charity goes to get Quincy she discovers the body of her nemesis, the evil Gabe Naughtly.
Chaos ensues. Ok not really just a bunch of situations I couldn't fully believe in. Like how come she has such a weird relationship with the Anna? Anna supposedly raised her. Why does she keep bringing Quincy to work with her just to leave him in her office? Why are their so many murders in a small town and no one seems to notice? How can they have so much business in such a small town? Why does everyone who shops there seem to buy dozens and dozens of dessert bars? Why does everyone cry so much? Who the hell hyperfocuses on buttons? I didn't even know designer buttons were a thing!
Anyway, would I read it again - no. Am I reading the next one - probably.
January 23, 2018
Quincy is a charming butterscotch tabby who is loved dearly by his human, Charity Oliver, better known as Chase. Chase is a co-owner of the Bar None bakery in Minneapolis. Along with her partner, Anna, the shop sells delicious dessert bars in the Dinkytown neighborhood. After a visit to the vet Chase puts Quincy on a diet which leads to his escape in search of food to fill his empty tummy. On one of his hunting expeditions Quincy comes across a dead body and Chase inadvertently becomes a suspect in murder. Amidst the chaos of the investigation, and Chase’s own sleuthing, she finds herself attracted to both her veterinarian and the detective that keeps questioning her. As if one murder isn’t enough, a second occurs. Chase begins to worry if others are also in danger and continues to seek out the murderer.
I loved this book! The characters are very well written. I will admit in the first two pages I was confused by the names being bantered about and I wasn’t sure how many people are was reading about. By page three I had it all sorted out. The setting is a neighborhood I am familiar with and I enjoyed that. The plot and subplots in this book kept the action moving and engaging. I was sure the murder was one of three people. I was correct, but I still have a strange feeling about one of my other suspects. I recommend this book, and I will definitely be reading book 2.
I loved this book! The characters are very well written. I will admit in the first two pages I was confused by the names being bantered about and I wasn’t sure how many people are was reading about. By page three I had it all sorted out. The setting is a neighborhood I am familiar with and I enjoyed that. The plot and subplots in this book kept the action moving and engaging. I was sure the murder was one of three people. I was correct, but I still have a strange feeling about one of my other suspects. I recommend this book, and I will definitely be reading book 2.
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October 8, 2017Quincy is a large cat--he has a penchant for getting out and sniffing out goodies, especially those of his owner, Chase, who owns a treatery called Bar None. But when he gets out and follows his nose to a scene of a crime and a meatloaf, he gets Chase in more trouble than she can handle. She meets a cute vet who thinks that Quincy needs to go on a diet and the cute detective that is handling the murder. Is Chase the murderer? Will she find out who killed the persons (more than one)? Will Quincy stay put and lose weight?
I picked this book up, being a lover of cozy mysteries and those with animals, especially cats, involved. This is a real page turner and keeps you guess the who-dun-it. I can't wait to see what Quincy and Chase will do next.
I picked this book up, being a lover of cozy mysteries and those with animals, especially cats, involved. This is a real page turner and keeps you guess the who-dun-it. I can't wait to see what Quincy and Chase will do next.
December 12, 2019
I don't care much for cozies or books that are filled with recipes but this series has some promise and I may try for another go at it. There was a bit too much animosity among the two store owners. They didn't put much effort into trying to work things out or come to any compromise. But hey...I read it for the cat...Quincy...who was a real charmer. He even was allowed a point of view, which often was...as is the case with all cats...more interesting that that of the human's. Cute story and if anyone wants to bake any of those recipes...I'll email you my address:)
January 20, 2020
This was painful to read. We expected this to be not-necessarily-good, but in a fun way. Unfortunately, it was just an unpleasant experience. The writing was not good. The protagonist was insufferable, constantly concerned with her love life even amidst murder allegations. So many unnecessary details that tacked on extra pages and added absolutely nothing to the plot. All in all, the big reveal happens within the last ten pages of the book, and is not satisfying. Will not be picking up the sequels. Sorry Quincy.
August 1, 2018
With a title and cover like that, how could I not take it out of the library?
What a bizarre book. Main character finds a dead body. 5 minutes later: "wow my vet is cute, nice too." Priorities all messed up.
Stop judging me. I read this book. I like cats, okay?
My revision would be this: make the titular fat cat the detective.
What a bizarre book. Main character finds a dead body. 5 minutes later: "wow my vet is cute, nice too." Priorities all messed up.
Stop judging me. I read this book. I like cats, okay?
My revision would be this: make the titular fat cat the detective.
September 3, 2014
Fat Cat At Large is the first book in the A Fat Cat Mystery series.
Charity "Chase" Oliver and her best friend, Julie, grandmother Anna co-own Bar None a dessert bar shop.
The series starts with Chase taking her cat, Oliver, to the vets for a checkup. While there, Dr. Ramos tells Chase that Oliver needs to be on a diet, as he is just getting to be too heavy. Needless to say this doesn't go over well with Oliver. The food tastes terrible and the only decent treats are the dessert bars he begs from Anna. Then he has the chance to escape. His nose picks up the aroma of meatloaf and he is off to a neighboring house. When Chase catches up with him, the door to the house is partially open and when she enters she finds the body of her nemesis, Gabe, who has been stabbed with a knife. Just as touches the knife, Torvald Iversen shows up and calls the police. with only Chase's fingerprints on the knife, she immediately becomes a prime suspect. So Chase is off to clear her name and calls upon Julie, who's a lawyer and has a way of learning what the cops are thinking.
This book has some very interesting and believable characters. Chase has a couple ladies that work in the shop, that really should put on some boxing gloves and duke it out, but they do provide some fun light-hearted times. Dr. Ramos also contributes some needed information. He also might prove to be a romantic interest for Chase. Even Oliver is able to give a paw to Chase and her investigation.
Oliver is fun cat, who does share his thoughts from time to time. Chase has made him some treats that are good for him and they flavor his his food to liking.
Looking forward to book #2 to see how things are going in the shop and to check in on Oliver's diet.
Charity "Chase" Oliver and her best friend, Julie, grandmother Anna co-own Bar None a dessert bar shop.
The series starts with Chase taking her cat, Oliver, to the vets for a checkup. While there, Dr. Ramos tells Chase that Oliver needs to be on a diet, as he is just getting to be too heavy. Needless to say this doesn't go over well with Oliver. The food tastes terrible and the only decent treats are the dessert bars he begs from Anna. Then he has the chance to escape. His nose picks up the aroma of meatloaf and he is off to a neighboring house. When Chase catches up with him, the door to the house is partially open and when she enters she finds the body of her nemesis, Gabe, who has been stabbed with a knife. Just as touches the knife, Torvald Iversen shows up and calls the police. with only Chase's fingerprints on the knife, she immediately becomes a prime suspect. So Chase is off to clear her name and calls upon Julie, who's a lawyer and has a way of learning what the cops are thinking.
This book has some very interesting and believable characters. Chase has a couple ladies that work in the shop, that really should put on some boxing gloves and duke it out, but they do provide some fun light-hearted times. Dr. Ramos also contributes some needed information. He also might prove to be a romantic interest for Chase. Even Oliver is able to give a paw to Chase and her investigation.
Oliver is fun cat, who does share his thoughts from time to time. Chase has made him some treats that are good for him and they flavor his his food to liking.
Looking forward to book #2 to see how things are going in the shop and to check in on Oliver's diet.
January 22, 2015
I love cozy mysteries when someone is murdered in a small town where everyone knows each other but yet they feel safe. I never got the small-town feeling with this book because Minneapolis is a big city and Dinkytown is a large neighborhood. It appears that Chase, a transplant from Chicago has co-owned the bakery a short time and is only familiar with the murder victim (whom she despises) and his wife and adult child (who she suspects is stealing from the bakery). Not exactly a warm-town feeling.
Chase owns an overweight cat named Quincy that runs off in search of food because he hates the new diet food that vet suggests. Chase "chases" after him and sees that a condo door is slightly ajar. She enters he home and sees the cat on the kitchen counter chowing down on meatloaf. Then Chase notices the man that she just finished arguing with at her bakery laying on the floor facedown. She rolls him over and touches the knife to pull it out. YOU NEVER TOUCH THE BODY OR THE WEAPON! Call the police you fools! You got it, Chase becomes Suspect #1 in the murder. Duh!
Chase co-owns a bakery with Anna who is supposed to be the grandmother of her best friend and a "grandmotherly presence" in Chase's life. However, they hardly seem to like or trust each other when it comes to keeping track of the financial side of the business or how to coach their employees so they can have a successful bakery.
I figured out long before they did who the murderer was and even the murder weapon used. Yawn. This wasn't my favorite cozy mystery.
Chase owns an overweight cat named Quincy that runs off in search of food because he hates the new diet food that vet suggests. Chase "chases" after him and sees that a condo door is slightly ajar. She enters he home and sees the cat on the kitchen counter chowing down on meatloaf. Then Chase notices the man that she just finished arguing with at her bakery laying on the floor facedown. She rolls him over and touches the knife to pull it out. YOU NEVER TOUCH THE BODY OR THE WEAPON! Call the police you fools! You got it, Chase becomes Suspect #1 in the murder. Duh!
Chase co-owns a bakery with Anna who is supposed to be the grandmother of her best friend and a "grandmotherly presence" in Chase's life. However, they hardly seem to like or trust each other when it comes to keeping track of the financial side of the business or how to coach their employees so they can have a successful bakery.
I figured out long before they did who the murderer was and even the murder weapon used. Yawn. This wasn't my favorite cozy mystery.
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