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A Mythical Pet Sitting Mystery #2
A Mythical Case of Murder
Job hunting is a deadly sport.
Deandra “Dee” Hendricks is settling into her new life in Axia. She’s got her trusty baby dragon, Havoc, by her side, is sharing an apartment with her best friend and roommate, Wendy, and even has her first pet-sitting client. Things are looking up!
Shortly after launching her new website, Dee receives an invitation to a pet-sitter happy hour where she meets Sarah, the owner of Axia’s largest pet-sitting operation. Other attendees include sole proprietors, like Dee, and a few of Sarah’s employees. Everyone is welcoming and willing to share advice—mainly to steer clear of their notorious fellow sitter, Lydia Monroe.
They accuse Lydia of everything—from magically manipulating her animal charges and poaching clients from Sarah to making false claims about possessing “zoolingual” abilities. The sticking point is Lydia’s questionable acquisition of a lucrative gig offered by Oleander Basnet, a yeti whose son needs one-on-one care. Sarah’s company fought hard for the opportunity, only to have yet another job snatched away by Lydia.
The peaceful get-together is interrupted when a late arrival informs the group that Lydia had been found murdered. Worse still, the time of death doesn’t exonerate anyone at the event. Dee fears she just shared discounted apps with a murderer.
Later that night, a job offer from Oleander hits Dee’s inbox. Dee’s wallet desperately wants her to take the job, but could there be someone in town so desperate to beat the competition that they murdered Lydia? And could Dee be next?
Deandra “Dee” Hendricks is settling into her new life in Axia. She’s got her trusty baby dragon, Havoc, by her side, is sharing an apartment with her best friend and roommate, Wendy, and even has her first pet-sitting client. Things are looking up!
Shortly after launching her new website, Dee receives an invitation to a pet-sitter happy hour where she meets Sarah, the owner of Axia’s largest pet-sitting operation. Other attendees include sole proprietors, like Dee, and a few of Sarah’s employees. Everyone is welcoming and willing to share advice—mainly to steer clear of their notorious fellow sitter, Lydia Monroe.
They accuse Lydia of everything—from magically manipulating her animal charges and poaching clients from Sarah to making false claims about possessing “zoolingual” abilities. The sticking point is Lydia’s questionable acquisition of a lucrative gig offered by Oleander Basnet, a yeti whose son needs one-on-one care. Sarah’s company fought hard for the opportunity, only to have yet another job snatched away by Lydia.
The peaceful get-together is interrupted when a late arrival informs the group that Lydia had been found murdered. Worse still, the time of death doesn’t exonerate anyone at the event. Dee fears she just shared discounted apps with a murderer.
Later that night, a job offer from Oleander hits Dee’s inbox. Dee’s wallet desperately wants her to take the job, but could there be someone in town so desperate to beat the competition that they murdered Lydia? And could Dee be next?
316 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 10, 2024
6 people are currently reading
72 people want to read
About the author
Melissa Erin Jackson
28 books532 followersMelissa is a professional pet sitter and an author of paranormal mysteries. There are two books out in her Riley Thomas mystery series--The Forgotten Child and Shuttered Secrets. Her Witch of Edgehill cozy paranormal mystery series is complete at five books. The first two books in her urban fantasy series, The Charm Collector, are out now. Unholy Magic and A Mythical Case of Arson are up next! She owns too many pets and lives in Northern California with her equally pet-obsessed boyfriend. For information about her books, you can join her newsletter at melissajacksonbooks.com
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Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews
November 22, 2024
I received a free copy from the author and voluntarily reviewed it.
I really enjoyed the first book in this series and was really looking forward to book 2. Once I received a copy it didn't take me long to start reading. I had so much fun reading about Deandra, seeing her become more at home in Axia and work with two new pet sitting clients she acquired. And ofcourse there's another mystery.
I really enjoyed this book. Every element is so well done and it all blends together so well. Deandra has now moved to Axia and is starting a pet sitting business. I liked seeing how that went and seeing how she handled the mythical pet and yeti she was taking care of, they are a handful, but also sweet in their own ways. Then there is her romance with Cruz that's progressing and he helps with the mystery as well. There's more of her friend Wendy and her cute dragon Havoc as well. I really like the characters, the romance, the paranormal elements as well as the mystery. It's an awesome read all around.
The mystery was a good one and it kept me guessing. I was thinking in the right direction, but without some of the later revealed clues it will be hard to figure it out. I especially liked how Deandra is the one to figure out who had done it. The way the clues and hints come to light and the mystery progresses throughout the book was really well done. I like how some clues that were revealed early on turned out to be important ones and then seeing it all come together when Deandra and Wendy uncover some more clues toward the end was great to see. The mystery has a clear sense of progression. The wrap up was well done and I like how it all made sense.
Another thing I really like about this series is the paranormal element. There's so much magic and mythical creatures and pets throughout the story. The town of Axia really feels alive and I like how much the paranormal element is part of the whole book. The mystery also involves the paranormal and I just appreciate how much it is part of everything. Reading about the mythical creatures and pets that Deandra works with was great to see as well and I like how they all feel real.
The characters are all interesting. Deandra is a likable main character and I enjoy reading about her and seeing how the handles everything. I like how she gets involved in the mysteries and wants to help. I also like her caring for the pets and yeti she works with. Her friend Wendy and their interactions are great too. And I really liked seeing her romance with Cruz develop and how he helps out with the mystery as well. They are so cute together and I look forward to seeing more of them.
To summarize: This was such a great read! It's already one of my favorite paranormal cozy mystery series. The author balances all the different elements well and the story is well written and interesting. Deandra is a likable and caring main character and I enjoy reading about her. The side characters are interesting too and I like Deandra's romance with Cruz and seeing that develop. The paranormal element is very present throughout the story and is part of the mystery as well. The mystery was very well written, it kept me guessing and some important clues come to light both at the start and end. I like the way it progresses and Deandra is the one to figure it out. All in all I am really enjoying this series and am looking forward to the next book!
I really enjoyed the first book in this series and was really looking forward to book 2. Once I received a copy it didn't take me long to start reading. I had so much fun reading about Deandra, seeing her become more at home in Axia and work with two new pet sitting clients she acquired. And ofcourse there's another mystery.
I really enjoyed this book. Every element is so well done and it all blends together so well. Deandra has now moved to Axia and is starting a pet sitting business. I liked seeing how that went and seeing how she handled the mythical pet and yeti she was taking care of, they are a handful, but also sweet in their own ways. Then there is her romance with Cruz that's progressing and he helps with the mystery as well. There's more of her friend Wendy and her cute dragon Havoc as well. I really like the characters, the romance, the paranormal elements as well as the mystery. It's an awesome read all around.
The mystery was a good one and it kept me guessing. I was thinking in the right direction, but without some of the later revealed clues it will be hard to figure it out. I especially liked how Deandra is the one to figure out who had done it. The way the clues and hints come to light and the mystery progresses throughout the book was really well done. I like how some clues that were revealed early on turned out to be important ones and then seeing it all come together when Deandra and Wendy uncover some more clues toward the end was great to see. The mystery has a clear sense of progression. The wrap up was well done and I like how it all made sense.
Another thing I really like about this series is the paranormal element. There's so much magic and mythical creatures and pets throughout the story. The town of Axia really feels alive and I like how much the paranormal element is part of the whole book. The mystery also involves the paranormal and I just appreciate how much it is part of everything. Reading about the mythical creatures and pets that Deandra works with was great to see as well and I like how they all feel real.
The characters are all interesting. Deandra is a likable main character and I enjoy reading about her and seeing how the handles everything. I like how she gets involved in the mysteries and wants to help. I also like her caring for the pets and yeti she works with. Her friend Wendy and their interactions are great too. And I really liked seeing her romance with Cruz develop and how he helps out with the mystery as well. They are so cute together and I look forward to seeing more of them.
To summarize: This was such a great read! It's already one of my favorite paranormal cozy mystery series. The author balances all the different elements well and the story is well written and interesting. Deandra is a likable and caring main character and I enjoy reading about her. The side characters are interesting too and I like Deandra's romance with Cruz and seeing that develop. The paranormal element is very present throughout the story and is part of the mystery as well. The mystery was very well written, it kept me guessing and some important clues come to light both at the start and end. I like the way it progresses and Deandra is the one to figure it out. All in all I am really enjoying this series and am looking forward to the next book!
November 9, 2024
I eagerly started this second book in this series as it had been a while since I’ve read anything by this author. Oh, my, what a wonderful time it was spending time reading this latest! I literally hardly ever laugh out loud even if I’m really amused at the antics in a book. This book has me laughing out loud twice! Dee and Wendy’s problems are my cure for any sadness I might be feeling at the time. They each had something happen that just really tickled my funny bone. Add into that a fun mystery, and I did not want to put this down. Well-written, fun, laugh-out loud, intriguing, with a dash of romance, this book is so worth a read, you need to do it today. Highly recommend. I was provided a complimentary copy which I voluntarily reviewed.
November 15, 2024
I love Dee. She's so awkwardly normal in the best way. How she always finds herself in bizarre situations is an amusing and interesting question. And she always has to find a way to dig herself out. As always, Havoc, is just my little love muffin! I must say, Harmony the gnome and that bleep spell? Hilarious! That's some real-life usefulness right there!
Not giving much away, because there were some truly fun moments; but this was a quirky, well-paced, engaging, pleasant cozy read; with likable characters. It covers it all.
Loved it!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Not giving much away, because there were some truly fun moments; but this was a quirky, well-paced, engaging, pleasant cozy read; with likable characters. It covers it all.
Loved it!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 20, 2024
I love Havoc!!!
Another brilliant and engaging installment, it kept me guessing every step of the way!! Love the yetis, especially little Kiwi!!
Another brilliant and engaging installment, it kept me guessing every step of the way!! Love the yetis, especially little Kiwi!!
November 20, 2024
After deciding to settle in Axia, Dee plans to start up a pet-sitting business. While walking Barnaby, her first client’s frilled dendrune, she meets rival pet sitter, Lydia Monroe. The unpleasant interaction is witnessed by Harmony, a fouled mouthed gnome under a bleep-spell. Later she’s invited to a happy hour gathering of other sitters and learns more about Lydia and her underhanded ways. She’s shocked when another member arrives and reveals that Lydia has been murdered. Even more surprising, she’s offered Lydia’s last job, babysitting the rambunctious Yeti toddler, Kiwi. Could this job be the cause of Lydia’s death, or worse is her new client a killer? Thankfully she has the help of her cousin, Wendy, zoolinguist veterinarian, Cruz, and her baby dragon, Havoc to find her footing in this strange new world.
From the adorable illustrations beginning each chapter to the philosophical questions of sentience vs. sapience, Melissa Erin Jackson uses exquisite world building to bring the magical hub of Axia to life. Dee represents the reader well as she navigates the strangeness around her. Whether gawking at the Drakens, to inadvertently insulting the gnome, her awkwardness is totally relatable. The sweet slow build romance between her and Cruz is charming and I liked how they addressed his tendency to overwork. The mystery was nicely plotted as well and Ms. Jackson was able to weave in how prejudices can affect one’s behaviors. Dee’s natural affinity with her charges is endearing and I was laughing out loud at the situations she found herself in. The interactions between Havoc and Kiwi were cuteness personified. Definitely a treat to read.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
From the adorable illustrations beginning each chapter to the philosophical questions of sentience vs. sapience, Melissa Erin Jackson uses exquisite world building to bring the magical hub of Axia to life. Dee represents the reader well as she navigates the strangeness around her. Whether gawking at the Drakens, to inadvertently insulting the gnome, her awkwardness is totally relatable. The sweet slow build romance between her and Cruz is charming and I liked how they addressed his tendency to overwork. The mystery was nicely plotted as well and Ms. Jackson was able to weave in how prejudices can affect one’s behaviors. Dee’s natural affinity with her charges is endearing and I was laughing out loud at the situations she found herself in. The interactions between Havoc and Kiwi were cuteness personified. Definitely a treat to read.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 19, 2024
A Mythical Case of Murder by Melissa Erin Jackson ✨
Oh my stars!! A Mythical Case of Murder is an absolutely enchanting whodunnit! This cozy fantasy mystery series is full of Halloweentown Vibes, cheeky mythical companions, fantastical magic and a hint of romance! 10/10 recommend!!
📚 Second in the Series
🍼 Adorably Chaotic Baby Yeti
🐾 Mythical Pet Sitting
🫖 Cozy Fantasy
🔍 Whodunnit
🎃 Halloweentown Vibes
🏡 Magical Safe Haven
🫶🏼 Community
💖 Hint of Romance
🔥 The Cutest Dragon
I am so happy to be back in Axia for book 2 of the Mythical Pet Setting Mystery series! From the adorable covers to the head scratching mysteries, this series is quickly becoming a favorite of mine! So excited to see what will happen next in book 3, A Mythical Case of Theft!
Thank you so much Melissa Erin Jackson for sending a copy my way!
Oh my stars!! A Mythical Case of Murder is an absolutely enchanting whodunnit! This cozy fantasy mystery series is full of Halloweentown Vibes, cheeky mythical companions, fantastical magic and a hint of romance! 10/10 recommend!!
📚 Second in the Series
🍼 Adorably Chaotic Baby Yeti
🐾 Mythical Pet Sitting
🫖 Cozy Fantasy
🔍 Whodunnit
🎃 Halloweentown Vibes
🏡 Magical Safe Haven
🫶🏼 Community
💖 Hint of Romance
🔥 The Cutest Dragon
I am so happy to be back in Axia for book 2 of the Mythical Pet Setting Mystery series! From the adorable covers to the head scratching mysteries, this series is quickly becoming a favorite of mine! So excited to see what will happen next in book 3, A Mythical Case of Theft!
Thank you so much Melissa Erin Jackson for sending a copy my way!
November 18, 2024
Melissa Erin Jackson is one of my favorite authors and the second book of this series has only entrenched her place in my bookshelves. I love the way she fleshed out her characters and the setting was also clearly described. Her writing is fun and I really enjoyed the whole time I was reading it. The only bad thing from this series is that I have to wait 6 months for the next book.
November 19, 2024
This series has it all, fantasy, murder and even a little cozy romance. The characters are unusual and entertaining. I find myself falling in love with each new creature I meet. In this book we meet an adorable baby Yeti that has more energy than any mundane 4 year old I've ever babysat. Dee learns that pet sitting and babysitting are a blurry line when you're surrounded by mythical creatures. Her first two pet sitting clients may be more than she can handle especially when a grumpy pet sitter ends up dead. But with her cousin Wendy and hunky veterinarian Cruz's help she might just find the murderer.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 7, 2024
This is the second book in the series. You don't necessarily need to read the first, but there are references that could be confusing if you skip the first.
Dee and her pet, Havoc, are in the middle of a murder case, at least they're not on the suspect list this time, but one of Dee's employers are though.
An excellent, well written, magical story that takes place in Axia. I was greatly anticipating this book after reading the first, and was not disappointed.
I received a copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Dee and her pet, Havoc, are in the middle of a murder case, at least they're not on the suspect list this time, but one of Dee's employers are though.
An excellent, well written, magical story that takes place in Axia. I was greatly anticipating this book after reading the first, and was not disappointed.
I received a copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 11, 2024
A Mythical Case of Murder is book 2 of the Mythical Pet Sitting series. Dee is finding her stride as a pet sitter of mythical creatures, when a fellow pet sitter turns up dead. She was not well-liked so there are more than a few suspects. Fortunately, Dee is not one of them - for now.
This is a delightful series with fascinating creatures and great characters. With mystery, murder, and mayhem there is plenty to keep the reader eagerly awaiting the next book in the series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This is a delightful series with fascinating creatures and great characters. With mystery, murder, and mayhem there is plenty to keep the reader eagerly awaiting the next book in the series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 24, 2024
this was a strong sequel in the Mythical Pet Sitting Mystery series, it had that element that I enjoyed from the first book in this series. The characters were everything that i was looking for and enjoyed the overall feel of this. Melissa Erin Jackson has a strong writing style and enjoyed the feel of this. It uses the paranormal mystery element that I was hoping for and enjoyed the overall feel of this.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 2, 2024
Do you like a mystery? You probably will like this cute mystery. Dee is planning a pet sitting buisness, can she do it? We have Lydia who is not liked by anyone because of her attitude. But what will happen when she turns up murdered? Is it one of the group? What will happen when she gets asked to watch a yeti?.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 11, 2024
Havoc steals the show!!!
I loved LOVED book 1, so I was eagerly awaiting this book, and that can go two ways, right? It can disappoint, but it can also exceed expectations. And this book exceeded my expectations, it was so good! Really well written, in a way that kept me up way too late. Humorous, lighthearted, with just the right tone. The mystery was well done and kept me entertained. Haven’t started this series yet? Oh, you must! You just must! It’s so amazing!
I loved LOVED book 1, so I was eagerly awaiting this book, and that can go two ways, right? It can disappoint, but it can also exceed expectations. And this book exceeded my expectations, it was so good! Really well written, in a way that kept me up way too late. Humorous, lighthearted, with just the right tone. The mystery was well done and kept me entertained. Haven’t started this series yet? Oh, you must! You just must! It’s so amazing!
December 16, 2024
A Mythical Case of Murder is book #2 in the Mythical Pet Sitting Mystery series by Melissa Erin Jackson.
This was another fun visit with Dee as she settled into her new life in Axia. I adore Havoc! Love the paranormal elements and the humor. There is a great variety of characters. I was drawn into the story from the start. The mystery was interesting and I look forward to the next book!
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This was another fun visit with Dee as she settled into her new life in Axia. I adore Havoc! Love the paranormal elements and the humor. There is a great variety of characters. I was drawn into the story from the start. The mystery was interesting and I look forward to the next book!
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 25, 2025
I love the world building in this one, discovering all the new things at the same time that Dee learns about her new town. The characters, both introduced in the first one and the new ones, are well-developed and so interesting in their own right and aren’t overshadowed by the fun, mythical creatures. The mystery was well-paced and kept me guessing until the end. Looking forward to more in this series and hopefully, the development of Dee’s relationship with her new love interest.
November 11, 2024
This was a fun paranormal cozy mystery with wonderful characters. I love Havoc and some of the situations Dee found herself in. I could imagine this being an animated series. There is a murder mystery and a yeti is thought to be the culprit. Dee works hard to find answers. This can be read as a standalone and I hope the author continues this entertaining series.
November 13, 2024
This is a fun paranormal mystery. It's slow paced but good. I liked the characters (some weird, in a good way tough) and their interactions. This is the first book I've read in this series but it can be read as a standalone. I don't think it will be my last.
I received an advance review copy via Booksprout and I’m leaving a voluntary and honest review.
I received an advance review copy via Booksprout and I’m leaving a voluntary and honest review.
October 14, 2025
Great mystery with laugh out loud moments!
I loved, loved, loved this book! The interactions between Dee and her charges were so cute! Kiwi and Havoc hit it off wonderfully, and alk their antics had me laughing several times!
The mystery of Lydia's murder was well thought out too! I am really looking forward to reading more of the Mythical Pet Sitting Mysteries.
I loved, loved, loved this book! The interactions between Dee and her charges were so cute! Kiwi and Havoc hit it off wonderfully, and alk their antics had me laughing several times!
The mystery of Lydia's murder was well thought out too! I am really looking forward to reading more of the Mythical Pet Sitting Mysteries.
November 17, 2024
A well written and intriguing pet sitting mystery. It's laugh out loud fun. Engaging characters including Havoc the baby dragon and now a baby yeti too. Such a fun series and I am looking forward to the next book in the series.
February 15, 2025
Cool mystery
Not quite as engaging as the first book, but I enjoyed the story. I really like the interactions with Dee, Havoc, and Kiwi. It was very cute, coupled with the murder mystery aspect that helped drive the story forward.
Not quite as engaging as the first book, but I enjoyed the story. I really like the interactions with Dee, Havoc, and Kiwi. It was very cute, coupled with the murder mystery aspect that helped drive the story forward.
December 18, 2024
if you enjoy reading this genre this book (series) really is worth checking out. It has everything that you would enjoy.
December 2, 2024
Fantasy Heaven!
I totally fell in love with Havoc in the first book and it's just getting better. Add and adorable baby yeti and a blossoming relationship with a vet and you have the makings of a great story! The world building is great and the background characters are brought to life as well. It's funny moments ease any down vibes and it becomes a "one more page" turner that caught me struggling to put the book down. A wonderful escape! I absolutely loved it!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I totally fell in love with Havoc in the first book and it's just getting better. Add and adorable baby yeti and a blossoming relationship with a vet and you have the makings of a great story! The world building is great and the background characters are brought to life as well. It's funny moments ease any down vibes and it becomes a "one more page" turner that caught me struggling to put the book down. A wonderful escape! I absolutely loved it!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 5, 2025
An ARC was received with thanks from the author via Booksprout in return for an honest review.
05.05.25
Another entertaining series from this author, whom I really enjoy reading from. This series is much lighter than her Charm Collector series, but there are some vague mentions of that world in this one and I always appreciate that.
Even more enjoyable than the first in the series I think, but again as I read this months ago, some of the detail is lost to my memory. So, as per my last review for Unholy Magic (Charm Collector book 3), MAJOR apologies to Melissa for the extreme lateness and lack of detail of this 'review'.
The ARC notification turned up not long after (or before? - I can't remember!) the one for Unholy Magic - right in the middle of an incredibly stressful and unexpected house move which came just a few months into a very challenging new job. And those came after a long and severe bout of depression, which has, even up until now, gotten in the way of my engagement with GR as I had done before. Hence, the reason for the extreme lateness of my review.
I don't read a lot of cozies, but this is one series I'll definitely continue on with. And if you like light mysteries with a slight fantastical bent, this one is well worth a try.
And now off to the third in the series...
05.05.25
Another entertaining series from this author, whom I really enjoy reading from. This series is much lighter than her Charm Collector series, but there are some vague mentions of that world in this one and I always appreciate that.
Even more enjoyable than the first in the series I think, but again as I read this months ago, some of the detail is lost to my memory. So, as per my last review for Unholy Magic (Charm Collector book 3), MAJOR apologies to Melissa for the extreme lateness and lack of detail of this 'review'.
The ARC notification turned up not long after (or before? - I can't remember!) the one for Unholy Magic - right in the middle of an incredibly stressful and unexpected house move which came just a few months into a very challenging new job. And those came after a long and severe bout of depression, which has, even up until now, gotten in the way of my engagement with GR as I had done before. Hence, the reason for the extreme lateness of my review.
I don't read a lot of cozies, but this is one series I'll definitely continue on with. And if you like light mysteries with a slight fantastical bent, this one is well worth a try.
And now off to the third in the series...
Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews