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Pups and Poison: A Paranormal Cozy Mystery

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I’m ready to sink my fangs into this new mystery and do whatever it takes to solve it… as long as it doesn’t involve stakeouts. Everyone knows stakes and vampires just don’t mix.

After hiring a new vet tech, things at Sunny Days Animal Clinic are running smoothly. Well, as smoothly as they can, considering the chaos our paranormal patients cause on a weekly basis. I was relieved to finally get a day off, and when Detective Ryder asked me to walk his adorable pup Benny, I was happy to do him a favor in exchange for puppy kisses.
A visit to the new dog park seems like a wonderful way to spend the afternoon, but Benny proves he has the chops for detective work by uncovering a dead body. And it isn’t long before the poisoner proves they don’t plan to stop at just one murder.

This is a clean paranormal cozy mystery series with a side of humor, featuring a vampire veterinarian who stumbles into trouble while trying to take care of her patients... those of the normal and the supernatural variety.

182 pages, Kindle Edition

Published January 10, 2025

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Sedona Jade

3 books13 followers

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5 stars
108 (45%)
4 stars
81 (34%)
3 stars
41 (17%)
2 stars
6 (2%)
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0 (0%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 59 reviews
212 reviews
January 10, 2025
A great addition to this series, I absolutely love Lia's character, her inner monologue, and all of her quirky moments. Good world building, i really like getting further glimpses into the side characters. You are kept guessing and trying to figure out who the baddie is. The chemistry building between Lia and Ryder is great, and you can't help but route for them to get together.
Profile Image for Emily Pennington.
21.1k reviews373 followers
January 11, 2025
A Busy Day for the Vet . . .

Dr. Ophelia Pane (“Lia”) is a vampire veterinarian, owner of Sunny Days Veterinary Clinic, who needs to hire another vet tech to help out with the business getting so busy. Two supernaturals showed up for an interview. The mermaid was untrained so wouldn’t be a good choice since she would be unfamiliar with the meds and the specialized equipment. The werewolf was extremely tall with his head almost hitting the ceiling, so he wouldn’t work out well either. She and Bree, her pixie vet tech, went to the office to discuss how to let these two down easy and Bree begged her to admit she had more people to interview. But she didn’t. She probably could find a human tech, but the work hours are geared to supernaturals and the fact that a human would have to interact with the “unusual” clients made it more risky to hire them. Humans are just too sensitive. A shriek from the other room had them running in to find the werewolf hanging by his nails from the ceiling while the mermaid, who allegedly attacked him, jumped up clawing at his tail. Fortunately Bree used her magic to calm down the two combatants. Then Lia made them clean up the room before they could open to clients.

While the cleaning continued, Detective Ryder arrived at the clinic with his tiny French bulldog puppy Benny and says he needs Lia’s help. He first joined the clean up crew to straighten up the office, then suggested he and Lia take Benny for a walk so they could talk privately. He needs to go out of town for a case and wanted her to take care of Benny for a week or two while he was gone. Watching this hellhound baby would be a joy for her! As she takes Benny for a walk in the dog park, he gets away from her and she ends up meeting an unlikable woman named Dana Seller, a dog trainer specializing in “special cases” like Benny as she handed her a business card. Then Bree phoned and asked Lia to stop at the clinic for a moment. As she headed back, she notices Dana and a man in a very heated argument. The clinic is packed when Lia arrives, but Bree is smiling and takes her to meet Grennich, a potential employee she wants Lia to hire. Lia is very impressed as she watches the stranger extract a vampire’s painful tooth and the patient actually thanks her for the terrific work she did on him. They ended up hiring the inexperienced but licensed Fae veterinarian who explained she graduated but had to return home to help her village and hadn’t worked in an actual clinic yet. She seemed to fit in quite well, however, and Bree was excited to see her join them.

Taking Benny back that evening to the park, Lia again chased after him as he took off. His low growl led Lia to a strong unpleasant smell. Benny started wildly digging in the snow and Lia found herself staring at Dana’s dead body. There was no blood or evidence of a struggle, so Lia is curious to find out what really happened to her -- especially after she observes the officer who arrived to handle the investigation was a “junior hire” and too inexperienced to be in charge of a serious crime like this one. Will she actually get a chance to solve the case? Or will the police try to keep her away from it? Something just doesn’t seem right with this one.
Profile Image for Londyn Strandquist.
336 reviews10 followers
January 11, 2025
I absolutely adored this book! Having enjoyed the first one, I was excited to dive further into the story, and it did not disappoint. The world-building is fantastic, offering deeper glimpses into side characters while introducing new ones. The quirky and witty moments had me giggling, especially with Ophelia's hilariously awkward attempts at flirting with Ryker. Their chemistry is undeniable, and you can't help but root for them to get together.

Benny, the mischievous and energetic hellhound pup, stole my heart, while Byrd the bat continues to be a delightful permanent fixture. The creative cursing, punny humor, and meddling vamp give the story a lighthearted YA vibe (I saw someone mention Scooby Doo and that’s totally the vibe!!) that’s just so much fun. This is a witty, engaging read that keeps you guessing about the villain!

It’s also a standalone so even if you haven’t read the first one you will still understand it! But also like why not read the first one it’s just as cute and fun! 🤩
Profile Image for PleaseGoAwayImReading.
556 reviews28 followers
January 14, 2025
So adorable. I used to read a ton of cozy mysteries with my grandma and great aunt growing up so this gave me some lovely nostalgic vibes.

Can I say that I adore the variety of supernaturals represented by the main and secondary characters? Ophelia, the vet, is a vampire. Bree, the office assistant (?) is a pixie. Grennich, the new vet tech, is fae. And Lia’s friend and lurve interest, Ryder, is a werewolf.

This is a cute, well crafted story that takes place in Bluejay Falls, a small town. It had me cracking up at various points, between Lia’s pet bat, named Byrd, Ryder’s hellhound bulldog Benny, Lia’s internal dialogue, and some of the dialogue between characters. I smiled through a good portion of it, and had a smile on my face when finished. No spice, for those spice seekers, but there is the giddy, potential promise of a friends to lovers situation between main characters… which I would definitely love to see!
Profile Image for Riley Bishop.
23 reviews3 followers
January 19, 2025
While murder mystery isn’t my usual read, I loved this book! The budding romance at the end made me happy, and the way the case was solved sucked me in! Byrd & Benny was a cute addition to the storyline.
Profile Image for Jessica Willoughby.
1,637 reviews12 followers
January 29, 2025
Perfectly Light and Fun

This is a fun and easy read with a main character that has just the right amount of development and strife. Sometimes you just need something light and enjoyable and this hits the mark brilliantly
Profile Image for Rachel.
2,496 reviews136 followers
January 12, 2025
While Pups and Poison is the second book in the A Vampire Veterinary Mystery series, it's also my first Sedona Jade book. This book reminded me of the Hallmark Mystery movies that I love (don't judge me, they're good), only more complex and a lot funnier. It was awesome.


I enjoyed that a couple of things were happening at once. Not only was Ophelia on her murder-solving track but there was a personal problem that was crime-related as well. The bodies are dropping, and there are plenty of suspects. I loved going along with Lia as she found clues, trying to figure out whodunit before the big reveal. It was a lot of fun. Then add in a mischievous pup and a pet bat, and this story was a hoot.


Ophelia is an unusual mix of old-school legends and the newer, softer vampires. I loved the combination, it was refreshing. She's really nice but can't leave well enough alone. In that aspect, she kind of reminds me of the MFC in one of my favorite Hallmark mysteries. I liked Lia, her reactions to her friends are some of the best, especially Bree. Haha! There can't be a mystery without a little romance. There's a little spark between her and Detective Ryder. I like their dynamic, and I'm looking forward to seeing where things go.


Pups and Poison was even better than I expected. What a rollercoaster ride! I had a lot of fun reading it, and I'm looking forward to the rest of Ophelia Pane's adventures.
Profile Image for Courtney .
251 reviews5 followers
February 24, 2025
Book: Pups and Poison
Series: A Vampire Veterinary Mystery, Book 2
Author: Sedona Jade and Amy Stake
Completed Series: No
Genre: Paranormal Romance
Format: eBook ARC Available Now

Storyline/Plot:
This is a cute, quick book for those who need something light and fun. It’s quirky, funny, and all-around sweet! This is a cute book for a young adult or even an early teen. I enjoyed it for what it was and it went at a very nice pace. I found myself smiling multiple times when the main character, Lia, was talking to herself. I also enjoy that Jade and Stake make her very clumsy instead of Rambo Vamp. It was a nice change.

Favorite Characters:
Benny was my favorite character. I want to have a hellhound puppy now because of this book. Though, at the same time I don’t because that’s an awful lot of walks I’d need to take it on and who has that time?

Spice:
No, nada, none. Do NOT read this book if you want something steamy. It is the opposite of steamy. If you can’t tell it is cute. Think: puppy love. That’s what this book is. Puppy Love

Triggers:
No, you are fine. Just jump on in, this book won't trigger you.
Profile Image for Jane litherland.
4,467 reviews82 followers
January 13, 2025
Aw ,or should I say paw….Sunny Days Animal Clinic , great name! Well things are running somewhat ok , if the paranormal patients behave themselves that is! Vampire Vet Dr Ophelia ( Lia) Pane isn’t such a great flirt when it comes to Ryder but she has her quirks to guide her. Detective Ryder asks her to walk his new pup ,well of course she jumps at the chance. A walk at the doggy park why not she asks? Maybe if you had the foresight to see into the future ,you’d take a step back ,because Benny has a nose for crime just like his owner it seems. A dead body he sniffs out. Oh no ,whoever it was has been poisoned of course and isn’t planning on stopping their furore for murder it seems. To top it all off she has bother finding a new tech , yes she could find a human interviewee but what would she say about the practice and her clientele? This is truly a great ,humour filled book with great fun ,apt puns and laughter emitters throughout . Great storytelling . A well written ,immersive book . I sure was hooked.
Profile Image for Crystal Hudson.
180 reviews1 follower
January 8, 2025
Another warm comfy mystery by Sedona and Amy.
Not gunna lie, I’m really warming up to this duo. These aren’t my standard read because honestly, they’re way more PG than my usuals but I still loved it.
Lia talks herself right into another murder investigation (literally) while puppy-sitting Ryder’s paranormal Frenchie. You know she’s going to down that road, you’re mentally shaking your head at her but I really don’t think she can help herself.
While I didn’t feel myself as invested in this investigation, I still enjoyed the ride. I’m starting to wonder if Lia really is full Vamp or not though, all signs are pointing to a bit more going on than she’s aware of, maybe Mom and Dad Pane have something they need to tell her.. something just isn’t adding up there yet.
Whatever it is, I am now faced with the wait because I most definitely will be reading the next one when it comes out.
Profile Image for Erin Saulpaugh.
527 reviews17 followers
January 12, 2025
This was such a quirky cute book. I was a little skeptical at first but quickly fell in love with this book. I was giggling so often in this book. This was something I didn't know I needed. Ophelia was so awkward around Ryker it was cute along with her flirting 🫦 it had me on the floor laughing, but it was so cute at the same time. Benny quickly became my favorite he was quite the troublemaker. Byrd, the (vampire) bat is my ultra favorite, though! He is funny, and so is his want to be cursing. I didn't guess the villain i was wrong about who the villain was. This reminded me of Scooby Doo.. if you loved Scooby Doo then I bet you'd love this too. My kids even liked this book! It's just so cute. Can't wait to see the next one. They have asked me to go back and read book one. So that's next on our list.
We definitely recommend it.
Profile Image for Vikki.
751 reviews
January 19, 2025
Sedona Jade delivers another delightful and fang-tastic adventure in Pups and Poison! This clean paranormal cozy mystery is everything you’d hope for—humorous, heartwarming, and satisfyingly puzzling, all wrapped up in a supernatural bow.

The pacing is spot-on, with twists and turns that keep you guessing without overshadowing the cozy vibe. The blend of humor and suspense is perfect, and the paranormal elements add a unique flair. I also loved the witty nods to vampire stereotypes!

If you enjoy a clean mystery with charming characters, supernatural flair, and plenty of humor, Pups and Poison is a must-read. I’m already eager to sink my fangs into the next installment! Sedona Jade has created a series that’s equal parts cozy and captivating, and I’ll happily follow this vampire vet wherever her adventures take her.
Profile Image for sycokittykat - Stefanie.
1,486 reviews43 followers
January 10, 2025
Vampire Vet by night Crime fighter my day

We have a born vampire (which apparently means with sunscreen she can go out during the day) who owns a vet office for normal and paranormal animals.

She is crushing on her friend who is a werewolf and a police detective. I didn't read the first book but it seems they met there. They have some serious chemistry and need to get together.

Anyways, the Vet ends of hellhound sitting for the detective and witnesses a strange altercation at the dog park. However, when the lady from the dog park end up dead the vet decides she needs to find the truth.

The investigation takes some interesting, random, and even funny turns as she tries to solve this murder.

This was a very cute book and I will be interested in seeing what happens next.
Profile Image for Trina Jones.
2,747 reviews40 followers
January 14, 2025
Best supernatural paranormal romance ever. It was addicted addictive and a mystery thriller. I was on the edge of my seat and I couldn’t even imagine of put it down this cozy story. Werewolf detective Ryker and vampire Veterinarian Ophelia were starting to grow closer together as he asks her to pet sit while he is away. She has to solve a mystery by herself with the help of the pets that she was watching in this moment. Clues were everywhere and will the culprit be revealed. It was a twisted and turns in this mystery as we know it. I definitely recommend this book and you won’t be disappointed. I received advance copy of this book via Bookfunnel and am volunteering leaving my honest opinion. Trina Jones
Profile Image for Darktwistybookworm.
411 reviews15 followers
January 10, 2025
This is a fun, lighthearted read with a meddling vamp and a creative cast of characters that give it a YA/scooby and the gang vibe.
It's witty, punny, and has creative cursing and character names that made me laugh out loud.
I just adore the interfering pets in each book - Byrd the bat is a permanent fixture, but in this one, we also get to meet Benny, who is the most energetic and adorable hellhound pup!
This is book 2 in the Vampire Veterinary Mystery series, and a little romance is starting to brew between our meddling vamp and werewolf detective - I can't wait to see what happens next!
Profile Image for Sheri.
814 reviews
January 9, 2025
What a delightful cast of characters! I adored every single one. The dialog is witty, punny, and pg with creative cursing which I happen to find hilarious. There's a great variety of paranormal species, all working together. I'm not a huge fan of cozy mystery, but I was drawn in from the first page and not let go until the last word.

It's a stand alone. I didn't read the first book, and while there are references to previous events, I didn't feel lost.

I'd happily read more about this little town and its supes with secrets!
594 reviews
January 16, 2025
3.5⭐️

This is a short cute read where we see more of Lia’s personality come out. She’s driven and curious for sure but it’s all coated in compassion. I love her evolving relationship with Ryder though I do wish we got more of him in this book. The animal antics are forever amusing but i wish that we got more time with the plot. It felt like it wrapped up very quickly, like the pacing was off for that section of the book. I look forward to book 3 and can’t wait to see what other critter drags her into trouble.
Profile Image for Love4books.
671 reviews
February 8, 2025
I was a little hesitant at first with this book but I enjoyed it. It was quirky and I was smiling and laughing throughout it. I really enjoyed the characters and plot. The author did a good job of grabbing my attention.

I really enjoyed the characters. They were each unique but each had their quirkiness that I really enjoyed. I loved the growth throughout the book. I also liked how each character had me smiling at parts.

Overall, I enjoyed this book! It was enjoyable and I recommend if you like mysteries. This definitely had that vibe.
Profile Image for Suzanne McNeill Taviner.
2,311 reviews13 followers
January 10, 2025
I am so loving this series, we may only be 2 books in but I love Ophelia already! She may be a vampire but she still has the nagging, matchmaker mother we'd all hate to have! You could see, right from their first meeting, that something was brewing between her and Ryder but this is slow burn romance so no fireworks there yet!
The mystery is well written too, the twist and turns are surprising with plenty of red herrings. Can't wait to continue this series.
Profile Image for Between The Sheets Books.
189 reviews3 followers
January 12, 2025
3.5 ⭐️

Book 2 in the Vampire Veterinary Mystery was exactly what I expected. It was a cozy mystery that included all sorts of paranormal individuals that was a quick read.

I love the idea of a sweet vampire veterinarian diving into solving mysteries (even if they have a tendency of gravitating towards her).

I would love more development with relationships, but also realize there is only so much that can be tackled in a novella length book (under 200pgs).

I recommend checking it out.
Profile Image for L KQ.
6,407 reviews28 followers
January 12, 2025
Chasing Benny

Supernaturally riveting as a cross between veterinary medicine and a murder mystery kept the pages turning right from the start. Werewolf detective Ryker and vampire Veterinarian Ophelia are slowly starting to grow closer as he asks her to pet sit while he is away. Not only was the case interesting, but the humor really added another layer to the plot that kept my interest.

I received an ARC of this book and voluntarily leave this review.
Profile Image for Christina.
159 reviews1 follower
January 12, 2025
I'm normally a spicy romance girly, but sometimes you need a cute and cozy palet cleanser. Pups and Poison is a clean paranormal mystery that is a perfect lazy weekend read. Book 1 is just as enjoyable and thoroughly entertaining!! Author Sedona Jade outdid herself with this second installment of her series. If you love a murder mystery and the paranormal genre, you are going to love this mashup!! (ARC Review)
Profile Image for SusanR.
143 reviews1 follower
February 19, 2025
A Nice Easy Read

The premise is good, the characters are also good, but there is very little depth. I knew who the victim was early on, and the murderer was a surprise only because there was really no reason for that person to be the murderer. It was very thin in terms of reasons. This series has a chance to be really good, and if there is another book, I will take that chance.
Profile Image for Kristie.
19 reviews
April 23, 2026
Jade does it again with this hilarious sequal. The puns actually made me laugh out loud. I can't wait to read what else the MC get up to in the next book.

I read this via audio book with narrators Bridget and Jake Bordeaux. I actually forgot this was a duel narration and when I heard Jakes voice I got excited. Jake brings all the hot werewolf cop vibes and Bridget makes all the punch lines hit just right.

Excellet book!
Profile Image for Everything Bookish  Blog.
814 reviews33 followers
May 1, 2026
Duet Narration

Narrated by Bridget Bordeaux and Jake Bordeaux

I enjoyed the narration. Some fun accents. They’re really able to bring it to life. A veterinarian that has lots of adorable and exciting animal and creature patients. A mystery waiting to be solved. A story that's cute and intriguing. An entertaining listen.

A fresh new world I loved falling into.

With the second book we get to delve a bit deeper. Can't wait for more!
Profile Image for Miranda | _pandathebibliophile.
259 reviews33 followers
January 8, 2025
Cozy mystery collides with the paranormal world. Perfect little read to cleanse your palate. The characters are easy to love and the mystery was fun to solve. Short and quick read, can’t wait for the next in the series.

Thank you Sedona Jade for the ARC of Pups and Poison. The thoughts in this review are honest and my own.
Profile Image for Kellie.
203 reviews4 followers
January 8, 2025
I love this combination of a cozy mystery with the paranormal aspect! All of the scenes in the clinic are just so fun and there's always something new going on. Although I was less invested in the mystery itself in this one versus the first one, I was more invested in all of the characters. They are so interesting and I hope to spend a lot more time with them in future books!
Profile Image for Sara.
27 reviews
January 10, 2025
Thank you for the ARC.

This is not what I usually read but you hooked me with the pup and a vampire vet.

Great story, love a good detective mystery novel and having a hellhound and all the supernatural had me intrigued. 

I may have to read the first book now and look forward to their new adventures.
Profile Image for Rachel Stephens.
2,671 reviews43 followers
January 11, 2025
Quick and Entertaining
This was such a fun read! It was easy to follow and held my attention.
There was mystery, magic, humor, a bit of romance, and of course an investigation.
I love Lia. Her inner monolog had me smiling. She is smart and a little silly.
I also enjoy the interactions between Lia and Ryder.
Profile Image for Micki-D.
1,855 reviews42 followers
January 14, 2025
Pups and Poison was paw-sitivly delightful. Such a cute cozy murder muster combined with the paranormal world to bring you a quick and captivating read.

Benny is my favorite little troublemaker but him a Byrd together are everything you can want, there Hynix had me laughing and smiling through the book.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 59 reviews