Theodore: The Unfortunate Cat

Theodore: The Neighbour's Cat #4

by J.S. Ellis

Now, as the father of two kittens, I must do anything to protect them.
But danger lurks close when I notice a man lingering outside the apartment window. The next night, there are two, and then three.

I'm hunting for a way to alert Jane when she's attacked by a group of masked men, and one of my kittens is stolen. With Jane hospitalized, it falls to me alone to save sweet Tabios.

But these criminals are far more sinister than I could have ever imagined. They are fans of Dean, my murderous first owner.

What do they want with me and my kittens? Will I be able to free Tabios from their evil clutches?

239 pages, Kindle Edition

Published October 29, 2024

About the author

J.S Ellis is a thriller author. She has a degree in creative writing, English literature, and digital marketing. She lives in Malta with her fiancé and their fur baby Eloise. When she’s not writing or reading, she’s either cooking, eating cheese and chocolate, or listening to good music and enjoying a glass of wine or two.

You can Stalk J.S Ellis at
https://joannewritesbooks.com
https://www.facebook.com/authorJ.SEllis/
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https://www.pinterest.com/joannewrite...
https://www.bookbub.com/authors/j-s-e...
https://www.amazon.com/J-S-Ellis/e/B0...

Reviews

[Phyllis Jones Pisanelli Reviews · Rating 5 out of 5]

Theodore: The Unfortunate Cat is book four in Theodore: The Neighbour’s Cat series by J. S. Ellis. I have been reading books by this author for a while. I have enjoyed this series for a few reasons. Let me tell you some of them.

The first thing that comes to mind is the very different premise for these books. They are books about a cat that gets around a bit. It seems like crime follows Theodore around. His current owner is Jane. I like Jane. She is an author but right now doesn’t seem to be doing a lot of writing. 

The stories are told from the point of view of Theo and Jane. I like hearing Jane’s side of things and the Cats. Theo is now the proud father of a couple of kittens. Pippa is the mother cat and Tobias and Suki are the kittens. The kittens give the parents the same grief human kids give their parents. It’s cute. 

The crimes being committed are usually centered around murder of some sort. In this book the theft and murder of Tuxedo cats is occuring. It is not detailed but there is a little talk of what is going on. I’m an animal lover and was much more involved in the other things going on in the story. 

These books are quick reads. J. S. Ellis keeps us interested and entertained. There is crime but it is not gruesome. If you like short, fun, crime centered reads this series Theodore: The Neighbour’s Cat should be on your nightstand. The books stand alone and Theodore: The Unfortunate Cat is a must read. Until next time…Happy Reading!

Don’t forget to support the authors you read by leaving a review.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. The opinions I have expressed are my own and I was not required to write a review. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

[David Blaylock · Rating 3 out of 5]

I didn’t expect this to be a cliffhanger.

[Linda Reads · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thrilling mystery with cats that can communicate
The most fascinating thing about this book above the others in this series is that we see Theodore as a doting daddy to Tobias and Suki, two kittens he had with his girlfriend named Pippa. The last book in this series explained how Pippa came into Theo’s orbit. Ms. Ellis has attributed human characteristics to all her kitty friends in that they make the reader forget that they are not human by their conversation and actions. One prime example was the moment when Tobi asks Theo if Jane was going to feed them and Theo said, no probably not but gave Tobi permission to eat all the food in their bowl even though Theo was very hungry. That was a touching moment. Poor Jane is having a very hard time since her husband was killed, her boyfriend was killed and she finds out that a serial killer (or killers) is at large.
This is strictly a mystery/thriller so do not expect romance but it makes up for it in intrigue. There were times that I was literally sitting on the edge of my seat. It will end with an almost cliffhanger when she sees someone who should be dead. This book had a slow start but picked up quite quickly. It soon became a page-turner. I volunteered to review an ARC of this book through BookSirens.

[Jo Rose · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you love cats, you will relish reading this twisted murder mystery. Theo, the so-called unlucky feline, is the main protagonist who narrates a bloody tale, of murder. Previously owned by Dean, a dead serial killer, Theo provides a unique catty viewpoint. Currently living with Dean's widow Jane, Theo does his best to keep Jane safe in the face of several men who appear nightly below Jane's window wearing cat masks. Various points of view such as Jane, two other cats, and others appear throughout the chapters, revealing new puzzle pieces for this nefarious enigma. Who has committed the previous murders, and what additional horrors will confront Theo and Jane? Read this delicious mystery to unravel the loose ends and to appreciate a cat's point of view. I loved it!!

[Audrey · Rating 5 out of 5]

In this book Theodore and Jane r back home in Malta. Nash and his soon to be ex wife r also in Malta. When Jane is attacked by a group of men in masks, Theodore tries to protect Jane and Tobias gets taken. Tobias’s mom , dad ,Jane and Nash all go looking for him. Jane is devastated and hurt. The whole book is about finding Tobias and find out what is going on with the masked men and why do they want Theodore. Meanwhile there is a cult killing women and stealing tuxedo cats! I enjoyed this book. Theodore is a doting father to his babies. I love all the characters. I didn’t like the cliffhanger that we have to wait until the end of Aug 2025 to find out what happens! This book had plenty of drama and intrigue! I highly recommend this book and this series.

[Paige · Rating 4 out of 5]

The author of the book stated it was not necessary to read the other books in the series before this one. I did not want to miss out on the first three though and went ahead and started from the beginning. This series is quite addictive, and this book is no exception. The story itself is told from the perspective of Theodore and his owner Jane. It is a thriller that is quite a quick read, but each page keeps you engaged. Theodore, Jane, Nash, Pippa, and the kittens are all wonderful characters. I look forward to the next book.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Delphia Von Heeder · Rating 5 out of 5]

Theodore: The Unfortunate Cat is Book 4 in The Neighbor's Cat by J S Ellis. Having read every book in this series I think book 4 is fabulous. Poor Jane, her husband is murdered in book 1 by a serial killer. Jane keeps Theodore the cat who had saved her. Now in book 4, Theo has 2 babies with Pippa. Nash, Jane's friend, has Pippa and daughter, Suki, while Jane kept Theo and son, Tobias. There are serial killers in the books and someone is killing again, a cat is cat- napped, there is a new cat, nameless. If you are new to the series, you will LOVE Theodore and have compassion for Jane and Nash. Who is behind the murders? I received an arc for free and am leaving my review voluntarily.

[Wendy Wallace · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another excellent story from J. S. Ellis. I love these stories about Theodore the cat and that we receive commentary from both Jane and Theodore.

Theodore the cat now has two kittens by Pippa who now lives with Nash. Theo and his son Tobi live with Jane, whilst Pippa and their daughter Suki live with Nash.

This is another interesting tale with murder, intrigue and missing cats.

It ends on a cliffhanger. I loved the story and hope to be able to read the next one.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Shirley · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is part of a series even though it can be read as a standalone would strongly suggest you read the whole series to have a better understanding of the events in this story. Theo is quite the cat, now a father, he is very protective of his family and his human too. Never a dull moment, events occur building the suspense. How does the past tie into the present? Warning, this book does end in a cliffhanger but can't wait for the next to see how it plays out. Received an ARC and this is my voluntary honest review.

[June · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a very enjoyable book, with great characters and a well written storyline and plot with twists and revelations.

I loved the way it was told by the main characters Theodore and Jane. The descriptive is wonderful especially Malta.

I enjoyed this from the beginning and it kept me guessing till that cliff edge of an ending.

I have enjoyed all of the books in this series and very much look forward to book 5.

I received a advanced copy of this book for free and I am leaving this review voluntarily. This is my unbiased and honest review

[AMBER CLARK · Rating 4 out of 5]

A quick read thriller this is book four in the Theodore: The Neighbour's Cat series. The author states that each can be read as a standalone and while that may be true, I recommend that they are read in order so that you can have the full background of Theodore, Jane, and the other characters. Please be aware there are trigger warnings.
I am Theodore and I am a father. One awful night someone attacks my wonderful owner, Jane and steal one of my babies, Tabios. I will save my son! Suspenseful and gripping I can't wait to see what happens next.

[Lynda Custer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Theodore The Unfortunate Cat is my favorite of the Theodore series. J.S. Ellis is excellent in developing psychological suspense thrillers. The story is told through the eyes of Theodore the cat and Jane the survivor of a serial killer who previously owned Theodore.
Jane and Theodore encounter loss of loved ones, murders and stalking. It is difficult to know who can be trusted and who is involved in this nefarious plot.

[Lisa · Rating 4 out of 5]

Book number 4 in the Theodore series. Theodore still lives with Jane and is now a father of 2 kittens. Jane is trying to move forward after losing Timon. When Theo spots men looking up at Jane’s apartment late at night, he becomes suspicious. Jane is attacked shortly thereafter and Tobias, his son is stolen. Who is behind all of this? Another great thriller with a cliff hanger ending. Thank you to the author for this preview copy.

[Carol · Rating 5 out of 5]

Theodore is now a family man and surely, things should now get back to normal. Jane certainly thinks so as well. But old sins have long shadows, so they say and both Jane and Theo are in for a surprise, or rather, several surprises.

I love this series, but warning, this book ends on a cliff hanger (not one of my favourite things, but it was still well worth it as I get to read the story) Great stuff, can hardly wait for the next one!

[Tahnia Ross · Rating 5 out of 5]

Theodore and his son, Tobias, stay with Jane, while Pippa and Suki live with Nash. Tuxedo cats start to go missing and later turn up dead, appearing to have been posed. Things take a frightening turn for Jane when she is attacked and Tobias goes missing. Soon after, Nash is also attacked. This story has plenty of action, ending with a cliffhanger.

I received a copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Beverly · Rating 5 out of 5]

This kept me on the edge of my seat wondering what's next?!?!?! I can't figure it out, but it's highly suspenseful and gripping.

What an ending, but not an ending!! It put my neck hairs on end and gave me an awful sick feeling in my gut. I need the next book now! I voluntarily read a free copy of this book provided by book sirens and am giving an honest opinion.

[Bev · Rating 4 out of 5]

This story kind of goes on where the other one left off. Now, Theo is a father and there are women being killed like his old master used to do. Plus, someone stole one of his kittens. What is going on here? Can Theo find his baby? Can the murderer be found? An interesting ending. I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book.

[Mike D-i · Rating 5 out of 5]

I can wholeheartedly recommend the whole Theodore series to cat-lovers and crime fiction enthusiasts alike. These books are enjoyable, gripping reads, with an adorable feline protagonist and an intriguing plot. I read the whole series in a couple of days and, frankly, can't wait to read the next one as soon as it comes out.

[Carolyn Valdez · Rating 4 out of 5]

Even though these are considered stand a lones I have read all of them and enjoyed everyone, including this one. I love the POV from Theodore the cat and from Jane. There is lots of shenanigans going on. I can’t wait to see what happens next!


I received an ARC from BookSirens and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Rhonda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thrilling and intense that keeps you hooked through the whole book. Interesting characters which include animals that make the story. There are so many twists in the story that it keeps you guessing. Like the setting and the story. Good read.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Sam · Rating 5 out of 5]

Brilliant! I did love this book! I love how it is partly written from the cats Theo's perspective, just brilliant! This is a lady that knows her cats. Lightly amusing at moments, high tension & stress at others a great balance & a really amazing read!

[Robert Foland · Rating 4 out of 5]

"Theodore the Unfortunate Cat" is an exceptionally entertaining read. J.S. Ellis packs so much into this story: mystery, intrigue, suspense, and cats! An entire family of cats! It's fast-paced—a delight at every turn.

[Urszula · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoy the series. I absolutely love the cats' points of view. Good reality and background that adds to the story. Plot full of action twists and turns.
A good read for mystery fans.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Sharmani Jayaram · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jane has the cat Theodore with her. A new neighbour, Dean’s mother Mary Carter's visit all start a circle of sinister dealings which put Jane's life in danger. An intriguing read . I received this ARC copy via Booksirens and leave a honest review. I recommend this book to other readers.

[Jeanne Richardson · Rating 4 out of 5]

I've read a lot of books written by ; she is one of my favorite authors. I can’t wait to read more of her books.

This is the fourth book in the Neighbour Cat Series; it is a stand-alone book. The story is about Theo searching for his kitten.

[Anne G. Kasaba · Rating 4 out of 5]

Suspenseful story told alternating between a cat and his human. Engaging characters and an unusual storyline make for an entertaining reading experience.
I received an arc of this book and voluntarily provided a review.

[Rachel · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved the writing! Great read looking forward to more from this author!

[Dawn J. · Rating 3 out of 5]

Well written. From a human and a cat's view.

[Udine · Rating 2 out of 5]

I have enjoyed the books but this one was disappointing

[Sarah Bee · Rating 5 out of 5]

... the ending ... !!! On Top the next !