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The Mysterious Case of the Missing Dog Walker
Emily Hildebrandt is not having a good week.
First off, she’s tasked with looking for, of all things, a missing dog. And not just any missing dog, but one owned by the aunt of Nick Stewart’s girlfriend, Trisha.
Like she wants anything to do Nick. Ever. She’s dating someone new and ready to take her life back.
Except…that missing dog case takes a strange turn when the owner tells her she never had a dog.
Why would Trisha lie about a missing dog? Or is Trisha’s aunt the one is lying?
As Emily digs deeper into the case, she uncovers far more than she bargained for.
A spin-off from the Charlie Kingsley Mystery series! The Redemption Detective Agency is a funny, twisty cozy mystery series set in the 1990s featuring silver sleuths solving cold cases. Great for fans of the Thursday Murder Club.
First off, she’s tasked with looking for, of all things, a missing dog. And not just any missing dog, but one owned by the aunt of Nick Stewart’s girlfriend, Trisha.
Like she wants anything to do Nick. Ever. She’s dating someone new and ready to take her life back.
Except…that missing dog case takes a strange turn when the owner tells her she never had a dog.
Why would Trisha lie about a missing dog? Or is Trisha’s aunt the one is lying?
As Emily digs deeper into the case, she uncovers far more than she bargained for.
A spin-off from the Charlie Kingsley Mystery series! The Redemption Detective Agency is a funny, twisty cozy mystery series set in the 1990s featuring silver sleuths solving cold cases. Great for fans of the Thursday Murder Club.
175 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 18, 2025
29 people are currently reading
3668 people want to read
About the author
Michele Pariza Wacek
64 books1,421 followersA USA Today Bestselling, award-winning author, Michele taught herself to read at 3 years old because she wanted to write stories so badly. It took some time (and some detours) but now she does spend much of her time writing stories. Mystery stories, to be exact. They're clean and twisty, and range from psychological thrillers to cozies, with a dash of romance and supernatural thrown into the mix. If that wasn't enough, she posts lots of fun things on her blog, including short stories, puzzles, recipes and more, at MPWNovels.com.
Michele grew up in Wisconsin, (hence why all her books take place there), and currently lives there after spending nearly 30 years living in the mountains of Prescott, Arizona, with her husband and southern squirrel hunter Cassie.
When she's not writing, she's usually reading, hanging out with her dog, or watching the Food Network and imagining she's an awesome cook. (Spoiler alert, she's not. Luckily for the whole family, Mr. PW is in charge of the cooking.)
Michele grew up in Wisconsin, (hence why all her books take place there), and currently lives there after spending nearly 30 years living in the mountains of Prescott, Arizona, with her husband and southern squirrel hunter Cassie.
When she's not writing, she's usually reading, hanging out with her dog, or watching the Food Network and imagining she's an awesome cook. (Spoiler alert, she's not. Luckily for the whole family, Mr. PW is in charge of the cooking.)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 55 reviews
June 21, 2025
Dollycas’s Thoughts
Redemption, Wisconsin, is a very unique town. Strange and unexplained events happen regularly, harkening back to an occurrence in 1888. This story is set in the 1990s, and while some things have changed, odd happenings still take place.
The Redemption Detective Agency is very unique too. Tilde used to be a nurse but knows nothing about running a detective agency or solving cases. Mildred is a retired schoolteacher who is determined that she is right about almost everything, but like Tilde, she has no knowledge of how to detect anything. Then there is Nora. She owns a used bookstore, and she should know how to run a business, but nope, and no knowledge of investigations, but she will bake cookies for their stakeouts.
Emily Hildebrandt’s personal and professional lives had imploded, and her Aunt Tilde and her friends brought her into the fold of their crazy detective agency chaos. Their current case is the search for a missing dog owned by the aunt of Nick Stewart’s girlfriend, Trisha. Yes, Nick, Emily’s got it bad for Nick, but he is with Trisha, and she is dating Jerome. Jerome is perfectly nice, but he doesn’t make her heart flutter the way Nick does.
So it’s Emily managing the office, doing her best to keep the ladies out of trouble, and searching for the missing dog, while trying to put her life into some semblance of order.
When Tricia’s aunt denies ever having a dog, Emily is confused. Trish’s strange behavior leads her to believe there is much more to the story.
Book 2 in this spinoff of the author’s Charlie Kingsley series doesn’t disappoint, and you don’t have to read the other series to enjoy this one.
Tilde, Nora, and Mildred are a hoot! Emily is a saint for taking them on. Her elderly workmates are so excited to investigate anything and want all the fancy gadgets they can get. I caught myself giggling and laughing out loud at their antics. The explanation about what happened when the ladies took Nora’s cat on a stakeout was spectacular. I had tears in my eyes from laughing so hard. The author brings these characters to life in the best ways. The dialogues are written with a skilled hand, and the descriptions of their interactions take the reader right into the scenes.
Now there was a mystery for Emily to solve, and it does get off to a peculiar start. She interviewed people, asked the right questions, listened carefully, and did her research. Each clue uncovered pushed her to keep digging. Some information connected to questionable things from her past. Soon, she had information that could get her into a lot of trouble. She just needed to spin her conclusion of the case in the right way to her Aunt Tilde, Nora, and Mildred, and heed the warning she was given.
While she was working on the missing dog case, the ladies were working on a cheating spouse case. Emily thought some of their actions were unethical, and she was right about the client, but Tilde, Mildred, and Nora felt they lived up to their motto, “Solving the Unsolvable”.
The Mysterious Case of the Missing Dog Walker is mysterious, hilarious, and fabulous. Emily has been dealt a rough hand, but she has landed where she needs to be. She has a talent for sleuthing tough cases and the patience to handle everything her Aunt Tilde, Mildred, and Nora throw at her, even when it comes to her love life.
Nick or Jerome? What will be the Redemption Detective Agency’s next case? With the title of book 3, The Mysterious Case of the Missing Ghost, we get a huge hint. Release Date – September 23, 2025! I can’t wait!
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review. Thank you to the author for providing me with an ARC.
Redemption, Wisconsin, is a very unique town. Strange and unexplained events happen regularly, harkening back to an occurrence in 1888. This story is set in the 1990s, and while some things have changed, odd happenings still take place.
The Redemption Detective Agency is very unique too. Tilde used to be a nurse but knows nothing about running a detective agency or solving cases. Mildred is a retired schoolteacher who is determined that she is right about almost everything, but like Tilde, she has no knowledge of how to detect anything. Then there is Nora. She owns a used bookstore, and she should know how to run a business, but nope, and no knowledge of investigations, but she will bake cookies for their stakeouts.
Emily Hildebrandt’s personal and professional lives had imploded, and her Aunt Tilde and her friends brought her into the fold of their crazy detective agency chaos. Their current case is the search for a missing dog owned by the aunt of Nick Stewart’s girlfriend, Trisha. Yes, Nick, Emily’s got it bad for Nick, but he is with Trisha, and she is dating Jerome. Jerome is perfectly nice, but he doesn’t make her heart flutter the way Nick does.
So it’s Emily managing the office, doing her best to keep the ladies out of trouble, and searching for the missing dog, while trying to put her life into some semblance of order.
When Tricia’s aunt denies ever having a dog, Emily is confused. Trish’s strange behavior leads her to believe there is much more to the story.
Book 2 in this spinoff of the author’s Charlie Kingsley series doesn’t disappoint, and you don’t have to read the other series to enjoy this one.
Tilde, Nora, and Mildred are a hoot! Emily is a saint for taking them on. Her elderly workmates are so excited to investigate anything and want all the fancy gadgets they can get. I caught myself giggling and laughing out loud at their antics. The explanation about what happened when the ladies took Nora’s cat on a stakeout was spectacular. I had tears in my eyes from laughing so hard. The author brings these characters to life in the best ways. The dialogues are written with a skilled hand, and the descriptions of their interactions take the reader right into the scenes.
Now there was a mystery for Emily to solve, and it does get off to a peculiar start. She interviewed people, asked the right questions, listened carefully, and did her research. Each clue uncovered pushed her to keep digging. Some information connected to questionable things from her past. Soon, she had information that could get her into a lot of trouble. She just needed to spin her conclusion of the case in the right way to her Aunt Tilde, Nora, and Mildred, and heed the warning she was given.
While she was working on the missing dog case, the ladies were working on a cheating spouse case. Emily thought some of their actions were unethical, and she was right about the client, but Tilde, Mildred, and Nora felt they lived up to their motto, “Solving the Unsolvable”.
The Mysterious Case of the Missing Dog Walker is mysterious, hilarious, and fabulous. Emily has been dealt a rough hand, but she has landed where she needs to be. She has a talent for sleuthing tough cases and the patience to handle everything her Aunt Tilde, Mildred, and Nora throw at her, even when it comes to her love life.
Nick or Jerome? What will be the Redemption Detective Agency’s next case? With the title of book 3, The Mysterious Case of the Missing Ghost, we get a huge hint. Release Date – September 23, 2025! I can’t wait!
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review. Thank you to the author for providing me with an ARC.
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August 26, 2025Book 2 of a spin-off from the Charlie Kingsley Mystery series! The Redemption Detective Agency is a funny, romantic cozy mystery series set in the 1990s featuring silver sleuths solving cold cases. Great for fans of the "Thursday Murder Club."
eBook available on Amazon (in KU) and signed paperbacks and audio on my Direct Store.
https://mpwnovels.com/book/the-myster...
eBook available on Amazon (in KU) and signed paperbacks and audio on my Direct Store.
https://mpwnovels.com/book/the-myster...
June 29, 2025
Poor Emily. After basically losing everything, she’s moved to the strange town of Redemption, Wisconsin, to help manage her aunt’s new detective agency. Not exactly how she saw her life going, especially since the term ‘detective’ should be used very loosely, as neither her aunt nor the other two senior citizen partners have ever been investigators before. What retired nurse Aunt Tilde, retired schoolteacher Mildred, and bookstore owner Nora ARE skilled at, however, is turning every conversation into a bit of a ‘who’s on first’ spiral of hilarity. I giggled often as Emily tries to make sense of these discussions and make herself understood, and much of my laughter was tinged with ‘she’s lost all control’ hysteria in solidarity with the beleaguered thirty-something. It was all too easy to put myself in her shoes, thanks to the witty first person narrative and memories of some conversations with my late grandmothers that felt very similar. And then the stakeout with the cat… LOL. Oh my goodness, I had tears in my eyes from laughing.
One of the cases they’re asked to investigate in The Mysterious Case of the Missing Dog Walker is indeed quite mysterious. A missing dog that’s not really missing? Actually, a missing dog that didn’t exist in the first place and please-don’t-ask-me-anymore-about-it-thank-you? Curiouser and curiouser. My armchair sleuthing radar went up right away, and I stayed invested in watching Emily get to the bottom of it. Complicating things further is the fact that the town of Redemption is mysterious in its own right, starting with a massive disappearance of townspeople in the late 1800s and continuing with a variety of supernatural occurrences to the present day. As the strange twists in this investigation keep piling up, I enjoyed puzzling through it all in my own mind and tagging along on Emily’s pursuit of the truth.
Bottom Line: The Mysterious Case of the Missing Dog Walker by Michele Pariza Wacek is hilarious and heartwarming with endearingly eccentric characters and a clever plot. The ‘detectives’ of the Redemption Detective Agency are a hoot (to say the least), and their long-suffering office manager Emily earned my sympathy and my laughter as she handled their antics (and their crazy conversations) with mostly good-natured patience. Her keen instincts make her the agency’s strongest asset too, so it was also fun to follow her investigative processes, just for different reasons. If you need a good laugh (or several) and you could use a break from death and destruction, this lighter cozy mystery with a hint of magical realism is just the ticket. And it’s fine to read as a standalone, though the first book in the series is now available on Kindle Unlimited if you want to catch up!
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
first reviewed at Reading Is My SuperPower
One of the cases they’re asked to investigate in The Mysterious Case of the Missing Dog Walker is indeed quite mysterious. A missing dog that’s not really missing? Actually, a missing dog that didn’t exist in the first place and please-don’t-ask-me-anymore-about-it-thank-you? Curiouser and curiouser. My armchair sleuthing radar went up right away, and I stayed invested in watching Emily get to the bottom of it. Complicating things further is the fact that the town of Redemption is mysterious in its own right, starting with a massive disappearance of townspeople in the late 1800s and continuing with a variety of supernatural occurrences to the present day. As the strange twists in this investigation keep piling up, I enjoyed puzzling through it all in my own mind and tagging along on Emily’s pursuit of the truth.
Bottom Line: The Mysterious Case of the Missing Dog Walker by Michele Pariza Wacek is hilarious and heartwarming with endearingly eccentric characters and a clever plot. The ‘detectives’ of the Redemption Detective Agency are a hoot (to say the least), and their long-suffering office manager Emily earned my sympathy and my laughter as she handled their antics (and their crazy conversations) with mostly good-natured patience. Her keen instincts make her the agency’s strongest asset too, so it was also fun to follow her investigative processes, just for different reasons. If you need a good laugh (or several) and you could use a break from death and destruction, this lighter cozy mystery with a hint of magical realism is just the ticket. And it’s fine to read as a standalone, though the first book in the series is now available on Kindle Unlimited if you want to catch up!
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
first reviewed at Reading Is My SuperPower
September 4, 2025
A heartfelt thank you to @themichelepw and @bookedwiththeemilys for the #gifted first 3 books in this series!
I recently read the first and second book in this series, and I absolutely adored them! The books are a delightful blend of charm and humor, perfectly capturing the essence of a cozy mystery.
Emily, who has faced the unimaginable loss of her job, home, car, and fiancé, relocates to the quaint town of Redemotion to live with her Aunt Tilde, a spirited retired nurse. Together, they embark on an exciting new venture: starting a detective agency.
These books are real page-turners! They are not only quick to read but also filled with clever wit and engaging characters. The dynamic between Emily and her lively “employees” is both entertaining and heartwarming as they navigate the challenges of running the agency. The cast of characters, Aunt Tilde, the quirky Mildred, a retired teacher, and Nora, the endearing bookstore owner, are all wonderfully unique and packed with enough personality to tackle even the most puzzling cases. Plus, the sweet chemistry between Emily and Nick, a local attorney, added an irresistible touch to the narrative.
I loved the animals with their uncanny instincts! They added an extra layer of charm and fun to the story.
If you’re in search of a captivating cozy mystery that delivers plenty of laughter and endearing moments, look no further. The first three books in this delightful series are available on Kindle Unlimited now! Don’t miss out!
I recently read the first and second book in this series, and I absolutely adored them! The books are a delightful blend of charm and humor, perfectly capturing the essence of a cozy mystery.
Emily, who has faced the unimaginable loss of her job, home, car, and fiancé, relocates to the quaint town of Redemotion to live with her Aunt Tilde, a spirited retired nurse. Together, they embark on an exciting new venture: starting a detective agency.
These books are real page-turners! They are not only quick to read but also filled with clever wit and engaging characters. The dynamic between Emily and her lively “employees” is both entertaining and heartwarming as they navigate the challenges of running the agency. The cast of characters, Aunt Tilde, the quirky Mildred, a retired teacher, and Nora, the endearing bookstore owner, are all wonderfully unique and packed with enough personality to tackle even the most puzzling cases. Plus, the sweet chemistry between Emily and Nick, a local attorney, added an irresistible touch to the narrative.
I loved the animals with their uncanny instincts! They added an extra layer of charm and fun to the story.
If you’re in search of a captivating cozy mystery that delivers plenty of laughter and endearing moments, look no further. The first three books in this delightful series are available on Kindle Unlimited now! Don’t miss out!
June 23, 2025
THE MYSTERIOUS CASE OF THE MISSING DOG WALKER nearly missed out on a 5-star review. In fact, it almost missed out on a 4-star review as well.
Author Michele Pariza Wacek's first Redemption Detective Agency mystery drew me in so quickly that I was hoping for the same this time around. The idea that a dog missing for a year or a potential cheating husband case was going to be an interesting read seemed far-fetched. What readers will get is a lot of comedy courtesy of Emily's first date with Jerome and Emily's aunt Tilde and Tilde's business partners, Mildred and Nora. But then the story kicks into gear, and Emily begins putting the pieces together.
Most of the detective work takes place in the second half of the book. I realize that Ms. Wacek is still world-building for this series, but there's a part of me that felt like it was almost too late for me to really enjoy this book. However, there's a character Emily meets toward the end of the book that I have a strong feeling is going to be an important part of the story later on (and if he isn't, he should be).
This is my second visit to Redemption, and I plan to be back for a third. Emily and her circle of friends (and more?) are an entertaining bunch of folks. I believe readers will get a kick out of them as they solve a mystery or two along the way.
I received an advance reader copy from the author through BookSirens, for which I thank them. All opinions are mine.
Author Michele Pariza Wacek's first Redemption Detective Agency mystery drew me in so quickly that I was hoping for the same this time around. The idea that a dog missing for a year or a potential cheating husband case was going to be an interesting read seemed far-fetched. What readers will get is a lot of comedy courtesy of Emily's first date with Jerome and Emily's aunt Tilde and Tilde's business partners, Mildred and Nora. But then the story kicks into gear, and Emily begins putting the pieces together.
Most of the detective work takes place in the second half of the book. I realize that Ms. Wacek is still world-building for this series, but there's a part of me that felt like it was almost too late for me to really enjoy this book. However, there's a character Emily meets toward the end of the book that I have a strong feeling is going to be an important part of the story later on (and if he isn't, he should be).
This is my second visit to Redemption, and I plan to be back for a third. Emily and her circle of friends (and more?) are an entertaining bunch of folks. I believe readers will get a kick out of them as they solve a mystery or two along the way.
I received an advance reader copy from the author through BookSirens, for which I thank them. All opinions are mine.
June 15, 2025
This was a really enjoyable and fun read. There seems to be some miscommunication when Emily is asked to look into a missing dog who disappeared a year ago when the said owner of the dog claims she never had that dog. The agency are also hired to look into a possible cheating husband but Emily suspects something is not quite right.
The ladies of the agency are hilarious and I just read this with a smile on my face. I enjoyed the mysterious disappearance of the dog that never was, as well as Emily's personal life trials and tribulations. Despite being a cozy mystery, there is a thread here now that seems to be leading to something bigger and more dangerous and I can't wait to see how things unfold in future books.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The ladies of the agency are hilarious and I just read this with a smile on my face. I enjoyed the mysterious disappearance of the dog that never was, as well as Emily's personal life trials and tribulations. Despite being a cozy mystery, there is a thread here now that seems to be leading to something bigger and more dangerous and I can't wait to see how things unfold in future books.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
June 17, 2025
Small towns can certainly have some characters and it seems that most of them have some connection to The Redemption Detective Agency. It definitely makes for some entertaining reading!
The ladies of the Agency like to say that they solve the unsolvable. This case is definitely a doozy. If there really is a case. You’ll need to keep your wits about you to follow the twists and turns; and you won’t believe the ending. If it is really the ending…
All around I really enjoyed this book and am looking forward to more! I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The ladies of the Agency like to say that they solve the unsolvable. This case is definitely a doozy. If there really is a case. You’ll need to keep your wits about you to follow the twists and turns; and you won’t believe the ending. If it is really the ending…
All around I really enjoyed this book and am looking forward to more! I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
June 15, 2025
This is such a fun new series. The patience Emily must have to deal with her Aunt Tildy and the other "detectives" at The Redemption Detective Agency is astounding. When the group wants to head out to dig up a person's whole yard because they think there's a body there without any evidence whatsoever, Emily must stop them in a way so as not to offend them. The dialogue between these ladies is some of the best cozy writing I've seen. I could easily place myself in amongst them as they pondered tactics. I enjoyed the first book in the series very much, but this one was really fun. Happy Reading!
June 19, 2025
Emily along with her aunt, Tilde as well as Nora and Mildred are on a case for a friend, Tricia who wants them to find her aunt's dog who disappeared a year ago. Emily is perplexed by her aunt's denial of the missing dog and Tricia cancels the investigation but Emily is determined to find out the facts and then they have a new case about a wife suspecting her husband of cheating. Their investigation leads them into hilarious situations. An entertaining page turner with vibrant characters and unexpected twists.
July 24, 2025
This is such a cute and cozy series!! I definitely got Thursday Murder Club vibes. Emily is on the struggle bus after losing everything (and she does mean EVERYTHING) and is now working for her Aunt’s detective agency…
This book has these amazing quirky and funny characters and I found myself laughing out loud a few different times. I am an animal lover and it was so fun to have the animals in the book too. I would love to be friends with the characters at the agency!
I highly recommend reading book 1 first. I am so excited for book 3: The Mysterious Case of the Missing Ghost!!! 👻
This book has these amazing quirky and funny characters and I found myself laughing out loud a few different times. I am an animal lover and it was so fun to have the animals in the book too. I would love to be friends with the characters at the agency!
I highly recommend reading book 1 first. I am so excited for book 3: The Mysterious Case of the Missing Ghost!!! 👻
June 15, 2025
The Mysterious Case of the Missing Dog Walker is Book 2 in the Redemption Detective Agency by Michele Paris a Wacek. This story has a wild beginning and ends with a dead body. Although Nick is dating Tricia, there is lots of chemistry between Emily and Nick. I am not sure about Jerome and neither is Emily. Book 2 is definitely a wild ride you don't want to miss. I am looking forward to Book 3, The Mysterious Case of the Missing Ghost. This should be tons of fun. I received an arc for free and am leaving my review voluntarily.
June 16, 2025
This story was hilarious with the antics of Aunt Tilde, Mildred and Nora. I felt so sorry for Emily when she was trying to discuss anything with them. Emily is in fact, the person with the most instincts about people. The mysteries they solved were interesting. The characters are quirky and fun. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. I am looking forward to the next book. Strongly recommend reading.
July 16, 2025
This is another fantastic edition in #TheRedemptionDetectiveAgencyseries! Once again, the characters are full of quirkiness & the story is pure entertainment! And who doesn’t want to find a missing dog?? But, this mystery takes an interesting turn & has you really guessing! If you love cozy mysteries, you should add this series to your rotation!
June 17, 2025
Apologies, flowers, MEN - two of them. Jerome and Nick. Solving cases, that can be difficult. But choosing a man, that can be almost impossible. Now what is Emily to do? Highly Recommended.
June 8, 2025
The Redemption Detective Agency ladies are so funny that you never know what they will say next. This was a good mystery but found it a bit slow at the start otherwise I would have given 5 stars . Once you get into the story, you can enjoy where it takes you.I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
June 10, 2025
This book is both funny and tragic. I found myself getting totally taken in by the story.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
July 7, 2025
Emily was out of a job and decided to help her aunt and her gal friends run a detective agency. Her aunt & friends have been known to do many things to keep busy which dont always work out. When her aunt & friends get together along with two cats that dont like each other and Emily's dog it gets pretty crazy and confusing as they are always correcting each other. It is like watching a ping pong match. Their first case was a freebie. Nick the lawyer who was remodeling a kitchen in the building of the detective agency to use for his volunteer work, had a girlfriend, Trisha who asked them to help find her aunt's dog who has been missing for a year. When Emily went to talk to her aunt, her aunt denied even having another dog then the little one she currently has. She seems scared. When Emily returns to the office confused there was a paying client there who wants to prove her husband is having an affair. Her aunt made the mistake of mentioning the company Emily had worked for before. It was a powerful family company that Emily had discovered were doing not so legal things & they fired her. This client seemed obsessed with the family that owned that company. I received an ARC copy for free for a voluntary honest review. While her aunt & friends are all excited about getting equipment for a stake out and doing a stake out. Emily can't give up the feeling something is wrong about the missing dog case. Even more so when Trisha said she was mistaken, her aunt never had another dog. She too seemed frightened. While her aunt & friends followed the possible cheating husband case, Emily continued to investigate the missing dog. After talking to Trisha 's aunt's neighbor learning there in fact was another dog, a German shepherd. While researching at the library Emily learned several things. The town is known for having pets and people go missing never to be seen again. And at the same time Trisha 's aunt's dog went missing a dog walker/trainer went missing as well. In the end both cases were solved even if Emily can't tell what happened regarding the missing dog.
June 27, 2025
THE MYSTERIOUS CASE OF THE MISSING DOG WALKER
By Michele Pariza Wacek
The Second Redemption Detective Agency Mystery
Emily Hildebrandt continues to find herself in the most mind boggling situations since moving to Redemption and becoming the office manager of her Aunt Tilde's detective agency. A dog that may or may not have existed and may or may not have gone missing, a husband who may be a rotten cheating scoundrel with a wife who is way too interested in an influential family are not the themes of a television show, but rather the new cases of the Redemption Detective Agency. While her aunt and friends prepare for their stakeout, including who's bringing what in the way of snacks, Emily starts to look into the case of the dog who went missing a year ago. However, she comes up with more questions than answers.
The second Redemption Detective Agency Mystery brings lots of laughs as Emily tries to navigate the confusion and outlandishness that is the detective agency and its "detectives". Quick comments that go round and round, at times I felt I was in the middle of an Abbot and Costello routine, and laughing just as hard. The aunt, the cousin, what dog, who? I'm still grinning. I also am enjoying the romantic aspect...or non romance as it were. I know where, or more importantly who, Emily should be placing her attention, despite Mildred. I have a feeling more is going on with another character-and it's not good.
I'm really drawn to the uniqueness that is Redemption. I love learning more about its past and can't wait as more comes to light. I have a feeling there's a lot more shadiness coming and hope the Redemption Detective Agency is ready for it. I also enjoy that the series is set in the 1990s. At one point Emily was trying to memorize something on a sheet of paper and I was thinking why doesn't she quickly take a picture of it with her phone. Then it dawned on me this was the 90s. Heck, in 1990 I didn't even have my own computer let alone a mobile phone and was sending my film out to be developed! I certainly appreciate the difficulty of detecting without our current tools.
Lots of laughs, quirky characters, and a puzzling mystery make THE MYSTERIOUS CASE OF THE MISSING DOG WALKER a fantastic fast paced read. I love this series and can't wait to learn more about this mysterious town that truly is one of the characters.
By Michele Pariza Wacek
The Second Redemption Detective Agency Mystery
Emily Hildebrandt continues to find herself in the most mind boggling situations since moving to Redemption and becoming the office manager of her Aunt Tilde's detective agency. A dog that may or may not have existed and may or may not have gone missing, a husband who may be a rotten cheating scoundrel with a wife who is way too interested in an influential family are not the themes of a television show, but rather the new cases of the Redemption Detective Agency. While her aunt and friends prepare for their stakeout, including who's bringing what in the way of snacks, Emily starts to look into the case of the dog who went missing a year ago. However, she comes up with more questions than answers.
The second Redemption Detective Agency Mystery brings lots of laughs as Emily tries to navigate the confusion and outlandishness that is the detective agency and its "detectives". Quick comments that go round and round, at times I felt I was in the middle of an Abbot and Costello routine, and laughing just as hard. The aunt, the cousin, what dog, who? I'm still grinning. I also am enjoying the romantic aspect...or non romance as it were. I know where, or more importantly who, Emily should be placing her attention, despite Mildred. I have a feeling more is going on with another character-and it's not good.
I'm really drawn to the uniqueness that is Redemption. I love learning more about its past and can't wait as more comes to light. I have a feeling there's a lot more shadiness coming and hope the Redemption Detective Agency is ready for it. I also enjoy that the series is set in the 1990s. At one point Emily was trying to memorize something on a sheet of paper and I was thinking why doesn't she quickly take a picture of it with her phone. Then it dawned on me this was the 90s. Heck, in 1990 I didn't even have my own computer let alone a mobile phone and was sending my film out to be developed! I certainly appreciate the difficulty of detecting without our current tools.
Lots of laughs, quirky characters, and a puzzling mystery make THE MYSTERIOUS CASE OF THE MISSING DOG WALKER a fantastic fast paced read. I love this series and can't wait to learn more about this mysterious town that truly is one of the characters.
July 9, 2025
This is the second book in this series. This book takes place in Redemption, Wisconsin (The Redemption Series is a must-read IMO). This time the series centers around Emily Hildebrandt.
Emily's life pretty much imploded when she was fired and her boyfriend broke up with her. She left Riverview and ended up living with her Aunt Tilde in Redemption and nothing has been boring since she arrived. Almost immediately, her Aunt Tilde decided she was going to open a detective agency with some of her elderly friends. Aunt Tilde who knows nothing about running a detective agency. Aunt Tilde, a retired nurse, her friends Mildred, a retired schoolteacher and Nora who owns the local bookstore. An interesting menagerie of women who have no idea what they are doing yet somehow end up actually solving mysteries and, in this book, they solve two!
Emily is hired to run the office of this crazy agency but in this book, she actually ends up solving a mystery herself. A local lawyer, Nick, whom you meet in book one, is dating a woman named Trish. Trish has an aunt, and her dog went missing and she wants the agency to look into it. However, when Emily approaches her about the dog, she claims that she's only ever had one dog and he's not missing. Emily feels that something is off but can't put her finger on it. As she starts to do research, she learns that a dog walker went missing around the same time that the dog went missing. What happened to the dog walker? Did he dog knap the dog? What exactly is going on with Trish's aunt? Can Emily find out what happened or is she in over her head?
This is a great series and a fantastic story. I love Micheles writing and I am never disappointed! After reading the Secrets of Redemption Series, the Charlie Kingsley Mysteries and The Riverview Mysteries, I was sad to leave Redemption but very happy to see the author continuing with another series. I love that certain characters end up in other series and how they are all connected in some way. If you love a good mystery, a good laugh then this is the book for you. I received this book for an honest review.
Emily's life pretty much imploded when she was fired and her boyfriend broke up with her. She left Riverview and ended up living with her Aunt Tilde in Redemption and nothing has been boring since she arrived. Almost immediately, her Aunt Tilde decided she was going to open a detective agency with some of her elderly friends. Aunt Tilde who knows nothing about running a detective agency. Aunt Tilde, a retired nurse, her friends Mildred, a retired schoolteacher and Nora who owns the local bookstore. An interesting menagerie of women who have no idea what they are doing yet somehow end up actually solving mysteries and, in this book, they solve two!
Emily is hired to run the office of this crazy agency but in this book, she actually ends up solving a mystery herself. A local lawyer, Nick, whom you meet in book one, is dating a woman named Trish. Trish has an aunt, and her dog went missing and she wants the agency to look into it. However, when Emily approaches her about the dog, she claims that she's only ever had one dog and he's not missing. Emily feels that something is off but can't put her finger on it. As she starts to do research, she learns that a dog walker went missing around the same time that the dog went missing. What happened to the dog walker? Did he dog knap the dog? What exactly is going on with Trish's aunt? Can Emily find out what happened or is she in over her head?
This is a great series and a fantastic story. I love Micheles writing and I am never disappointed! After reading the Secrets of Redemption Series, the Charlie Kingsley Mysteries and The Riverview Mysteries, I was sad to leave Redemption but very happy to see the author continuing with another series. I love that certain characters end up in other series and how they are all connected in some way. If you love a good mystery, a good laugh then this is the book for you. I received this book for an honest review.
June 8, 2025
There seemed to have been a lack of communication somewhere along the line. Emily Hildebrandt, a representative of the Redemption Detective Agency, has been sent out to find a missing dog—a dog currently being snuggled by his owner. But the woman emits strange vibes, leading Emily to believe something is amiss. The non-case stirs Emily's curiosity, and as she digs further into the truth, the less things seem to make sense.
This is book two in the Redemption Detective Agency, set in the 1990s and spins off from the delightful Charlie Kingsley series. The story is self-contained, and it isn't necessary to have read the other books (but you should!)
Poor Emily; she's such a wonderful character surrounded by a bunch of kooks. Loveable kooks who are well-intentioned, but rather out there. It's a beautiful balancing act: a buttoned-up young woman trying to assist a group of challenging seniors. Emily's befuddlement provokes genuine laughter.
It always delights me when I'm reading for pleasure, I find a new piece of knowledge or a fantastic life lesson. It happened in this book. Somewhere in the middle of the story, the author wrote, "Try to do whatever you can, even if it's not much." I had to pause my reading and soak up this wonderful advice. I will incorporate these inspirational words into my interactions with others.
I happily recommend the series and The Mysterious Case of the Missing Dog Walker.
Thank you to Michele Pariza Wacek and BookSirens for the opportunity to view this digital ARC. As always, my opinions are my own, honest and true.
This is book two in the Redemption Detective Agency, set in the 1990s and spins off from the delightful Charlie Kingsley series. The story is self-contained, and it isn't necessary to have read the other books (but you should!)
Poor Emily; she's such a wonderful character surrounded by a bunch of kooks. Loveable kooks who are well-intentioned, but rather out there. It's a beautiful balancing act: a buttoned-up young woman trying to assist a group of challenging seniors. Emily's befuddlement provokes genuine laughter.
It always delights me when I'm reading for pleasure, I find a new piece of knowledge or a fantastic life lesson. It happened in this book. Somewhere in the middle of the story, the author wrote, "Try to do whatever you can, even if it's not much." I had to pause my reading and soak up this wonderful advice. I will incorporate these inspirational words into my interactions with others.
I happily recommend the series and The Mysterious Case of the Missing Dog Walker.
Thank you to Michele Pariza Wacek and BookSirens for the opportunity to view this digital ARC. As always, my opinions are my own, honest and true.
July 17, 2025
After the 50 percent mark this ended up being more of a skim reading where other than one scene I mostly just read the dialogue to understand what was going on/what happened further into the story.
I won this book in a Goodreads giveaway which initially prompted me to buy the first book. I gave the first book 4 stars as I really enjoyed it. This one I just found okay and honestly somewhat boring. I would be willing to read a sample of book 3 and see if I enjoy it more/would want to buy it. I am not sure if I will but we will see. If it was as enjoyable as book 1 then I definitely would be up for buying it/reading it.
This book felt slower paced with a lot of dialogue. I find it a little weird Nick and Emily have a thing when Nick is dating Trisha. I honestly expect them to eventually get together and I am guessing with the next book Jerome will seem to be more undesirable for one reason or another.
I also didn’t enjoy how much roundabout talk went on about the case and how confusing things were with the does the dog exist, maybe it was a misunderstanding etc. That went on for so long in the book between so many characters it eventually got old. I also felt like Aunt Tilde and Mildred were annoying.
All in all I could have had a worse time, I am thankful I got this book in the first place since it prompted me to check out the first one. I think this series is definitely worth giving a shot for people that are curious.
I won this book in a Goodreads giveaway which initially prompted me to buy the first book. I gave the first book 4 stars as I really enjoyed it. This one I just found okay and honestly somewhat boring. I would be willing to read a sample of book 3 and see if I enjoy it more/would want to buy it. I am not sure if I will but we will see. If it was as enjoyable as book 1 then I definitely would be up for buying it/reading it.
This book felt slower paced with a lot of dialogue. I find it a little weird Nick and Emily have a thing when Nick is dating Trisha. I honestly expect them to eventually get together and I am guessing with the next book Jerome will seem to be more undesirable for one reason or another.
I also didn’t enjoy how much roundabout talk went on about the case and how confusing things were with the does the dog exist, maybe it was a misunderstanding etc. That went on for so long in the book between so many characters it eventually got old. I also felt like Aunt Tilde and Mildred were annoying.
All in all I could have had a worse time, I am thankful I got this book in the first place since it prompted me to check out the first one. I think this series is definitely worth giving a shot for people that are curious.
June 29, 2025
Emily is looking for a missing dog. Trisha tells her the dog disappeared a year ago and belongs to her aunt. As office manager for a detective agency, Emily does a little of everything. Now she is interviewing the lady who owns the dog. Only the woman insists she only has had one dog, the one she holding, and she didn’t lose a dog a year ago. Emily questions Trisha again, and is told that the dog must have been her cousin’s dog, not her aunt’s. Huh? Someone is lying, and Emily is going to have to dig deep to solve this one. And she also has to deal with the silver sleuths who run the agency. They decide they need surveillance devices and maybe even a gun. What! Emily tries to settle them down before their stakeout for a cheating spouse leads to more trouble. This delightful cozy is liberally sprinkled with humorous dialogue as Emily tries to make sense out of the senseless situation. She gets exasperated from inconsistent stories, but she never gives up. A bit of romance adds some mystery as well as Emily tries to ignore her attraction to one guy while she begins dating a new guy. It’s a well-crafted mystery, with a likable protagonist and quirky characters to add interest to the tale.
It’s a fun read, entertaining and not stressful or too serious.
I was given an advance copy for free through BookSirens and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
It’s a fun read, entertaining and not stressful or too serious.
I was given an advance copy for free through BookSirens and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
July 17, 2025
This easy to read cosy detective series was very enjoyable. Filled with quirky characters, interesting mysteries, and a unique small town it has the things I like in a cosy mystery. Emily is a likable character that finds herself starting over after her life implodes at her Aunt Tilde’s in Redemption, WI. Aunt Tilde offers her a place to live and a job to help her get back on her feet. What she doesn’t expect is the job would be organizing the brand new Redemption Detective Agency. This picks up where the first book ended and continues to build on the relationships of the characters. The connection between Emily and Nick begins to grow but it is Trisha, Nick’s girlfriend, that brings the case that might not be a case to the detective agency. Now Emily is questioning not only her feelings for Nick but also what is really going on with the missing dog. I enjoyed the growing connections and learning more about the characters and the town. The story was engaging and I raced through it. I feel invested in Emily and the Redemption Detective Agency and I can’t wait to read more. I recommend this series to readers that enjoy cosy mysteries full of family and quirky characters.
Thanks to Kate Rock Literary Services and the author for the gifted copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Thanks to Kate Rock Literary Services and the author for the gifted copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
July 29, 2025
Quirky sleuths, chaotic charm, and one missing canine? Or... not? Michele Pariza Wacek’s second installment in her cozy mystery series refuses to play by the rules—thankfully. It’s a witty, whimsical ride that had me snorting into my coffee and wishing I could tag along with these delightfully odd investigators.
Even if you missed book one, you won’t feel lost. Wacek deftly reintroduces her quirky crew—Tilde, Nora, and Mildred, a trio of tech-wielding seniors with sass to spare—while crafting a standalone plot that sparkles on its own. Returning readers will appreciate the in-jokes and layered dynamics, but newcomers will find all they need to dive right in.
This is pure cozy mystery escapism. From the spiraling banter to Emily’s comedic confusion, the dialogue dances as the Tilde, Nora, and Mildred unique blend of eccentricity and emotional warmth makes this feel less like fiction and more like catching up with your favorite oddball aunties.
If you’re craving a feel-good mystery with a generous dose of giggles, gadgets, and golden-age gumption—this one’s your ticket.
Even if you missed book one, you won’t feel lost. Wacek deftly reintroduces her quirky crew—Tilde, Nora, and Mildred, a trio of tech-wielding seniors with sass to spare—while crafting a standalone plot that sparkles on its own. Returning readers will appreciate the in-jokes and layered dynamics, but newcomers will find all they need to dive right in.
This is pure cozy mystery escapism. From the spiraling banter to Emily’s comedic confusion, the dialogue dances as the Tilde, Nora, and Mildred unique blend of eccentricity and emotional warmth makes this feel less like fiction and more like catching up with your favorite oddball aunties.
If you’re craving a feel-good mystery with a generous dose of giggles, gadgets, and golden-age gumption—this one’s your ticket.
June 16, 2025
The Mysterious Case of the Missing Dog Walker is the second book of the "Redemption Detective Agency" cozy mystery series by Michele Pariza Wacek. I received an advance review copy, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. Set in Redemption Wisconsin, it is the story of Emily Hildebrandt who after losing her job, car, apartment, fiancé, and all her money, and has to move in with her eccentric Aunt Tilde and join her aunt’s new Detective Agency. Other members of the Detective Agency are Tilde's friends, a former high school teacher Mildred and a bookstore owner Nora. In this second book of the series, Emily is trying to solve the mystery of a missing Dog and Dog Walker. There is lots of banter between all the members of the Detective Agency, that causes lots of chaos. As with all cozy mysteries the book has lots of twists and turns. The book solves the case and ends in a way that suggests there are future books planned for this series.
September 30, 2025
Absolutely wonderful! I adore this series! The Mysterious Case of the Missing Dog Walker is sublime. It is equally as good as book one. There is such a comforting aspect to this series. It allows you to melt into the story, become one with the characters, and feel as though you are in Redemption with Emily and Tilde.
The characters are wonderful, quirky, and so. much fun to read about. Emily and Tilde mesh so well together since they are complete opposite personalities. Nora and Mildred add great commentary, even when you really want to tape their mouths shut; but we all know people like that and it adds such depth to the stories. I love that Sherlock, Scout, and Smoke are always around and have their paws in the investigation.
I highly recommend The Mysterious Case of the Missing Dog Walker! It holds your attention from the first to the last page. It keeps you thinking and it is unputdownable! I cannot recommend it enough!
Grab a copy and start reading today! I promise you will love it!
Happy reading! 📖
The characters are wonderful, quirky, and so. much fun to read about. Emily and Tilde mesh so well together since they are complete opposite personalities. Nora and Mildred add great commentary, even when you really want to tape their mouths shut; but we all know people like that and it adds such depth to the stories. I love that Sherlock, Scout, and Smoke are always around and have their paws in the investigation.
I highly recommend The Mysterious Case of the Missing Dog Walker! It holds your attention from the first to the last page. It keeps you thinking and it is unputdownable! I cannot recommend it enough!
Grab a copy and start reading today! I promise you will love it!
Happy reading! 📖
June 16, 2025
The Mysterious Case of the Missing Dogs Walker is a light and quirky mystery that offers a fun escape but ultimately falls short of its full potential. Michele Pariza Wacek crafts a charming small-town setting and an intriguing premise centered on the sudden disappearance of a dog walker, but the execution feels uneven at times. The main character is likable and relatable, and the story has moments of humor and suspense that keep me engaged. However, the pacing dragged in the middle, and some plot twists felt a little forced or predictable. I also wanted more depth in the supporting characters — some felt like caricatures rather than fully developed personalities. Overall, it is an entertaining read for fans of cozy mysteries who don't mind a slower burn. It's not a standout in the genre, but it's enjoyable enough for a weekend read.
June 21, 2025
I jumped straight into book two in this series and I think it went well. Characters and circumstances were explained and the story flows well.
Emelie is what I would call a private character. She is the narrator but she holds a lot close to her chest and it’s not necessarily a bad thing.
I’m not sure about the story between her and Nick because of that very reason, but it actually makes their exchanges more interesting to me. Jerome is supposed to be her love interest and he started out great, but it’s not all clear.
The mystery was really mysterious and was everything really solved?
I found the ending rather abrupt, but I enjoyed reading this book.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Emelie is what I would call a private character. She is the narrator but she holds a lot close to her chest and it’s not necessarily a bad thing.
I’m not sure about the story between her and Nick because of that very reason, but it actually makes their exchanges more interesting to me. Jerome is supposed to be her love interest and he started out great, but it’s not all clear.
The mystery was really mysterious and was everything really solved?
I found the ending rather abrupt, but I enjoyed reading this book.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
September 8, 2025
I laughed so many times. The Redemption Detective Agency is just as crazy as it was in the first book and I am in love with the series. There are so many times that Emily, Tilde, Nora and Mildred just overlap one another during conversations I feel like I'm reading a sit-com and I'm not sure how Emily deals with it all.
Emily is still trying to put together her own personal and professional life, but with the cases the agency are getting in AND the dates with Jerome and why the heck is Nick still hanging around?! It is true that she is not really getting things put together quickly. I can't wait to start book 3!
Emily is still trying to put together her own personal and professional life, but with the cases the agency are getting in AND the dates with Jerome and why the heck is Nick still hanging around?! It is true that she is not really getting things put together quickly. I can't wait to start book 3!
June 20, 2025
Strange
This was a strange story with lots of controversy and a great deal like a town of gossips gone mad, yet it only involved eight people at most. Concocted theories were a dime a dozen, yet the meat of the story went straight to the source of the problem eventually. The main character, Emily, has great intuition and her dog despite being small, is quite intelligent with a great nose. With these attributes, both found a truth that is connected to her old company. The story obviously continues. I do recommend this story if you can get past the gossip.
This was a strange story with lots of controversy and a great deal like a town of gossips gone mad, yet it only involved eight people at most. Concocted theories were a dime a dozen, yet the meat of the story went straight to the source of the problem eventually. The main character, Emily, has great intuition and her dog despite being small, is quite intelligent with a great nose. With these attributes, both found a truth that is connected to her old company. The story obviously continues. I do recommend this story if you can get past the gossip.
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