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A Carole and Poopsie Mystery #1
A Matter of Pedigree
The author of the popular Lucy Stone mysteries returns with this brand-new series about two newly wealthy Rhode Island empty-nesters.
Carole Capobianco has always counted her blessings, but it’s even more fun now that she and her husband Frank are finally making serious money, thanks to Frank’s newly patented Bye-Bye Toilet. With the kids finally on their own, Carole and Frank are empty-nesters, which will give her uninterrupted time to add to her impressive shoe collection—and lavish care on Poopsie, her beloved, very spoiled Brittany spaniel. The cherry on top is a hefty bid on a luxury co-op in a prestige building . . .
But that dream is quickly flushed when the offer is refused by venture capitalist Hosea Brown. Hearing the claim that the Capobiancos won’t fit into their wealthy, snooty community, Frank is outraged enough to roar something about killing that “old Yankee” on his way out the door. Three months later, Carole is shocked by the news that Hosea has been bludgeoned to death.
When Carole learns Hosea was one of the backers of a big new construction project for which Frank’s company has also been contracted, she’s worried. And that worry grows with every new twist in the case that’s discovered. Armed with her favorite Jimmy Choos and her beloved, if quirky, Poopsie, Carole sets out to clear Frank’s name—and just maybe save their lives . . .
Carole Capobianco has always counted her blessings, but it’s even more fun now that she and her husband Frank are finally making serious money, thanks to Frank’s newly patented Bye-Bye Toilet. With the kids finally on their own, Carole and Frank are empty-nesters, which will give her uninterrupted time to add to her impressive shoe collection—and lavish care on Poopsie, her beloved, very spoiled Brittany spaniel. The cherry on top is a hefty bid on a luxury co-op in a prestige building . . .
But that dream is quickly flushed when the offer is refused by venture capitalist Hosea Brown. Hearing the claim that the Capobiancos won’t fit into their wealthy, snooty community, Frank is outraged enough to roar something about killing that “old Yankee” on his way out the door. Three months later, Carole is shocked by the news that Hosea has been bludgeoned to death.
When Carole learns Hosea was one of the backers of a big new construction project for which Frank’s company has also been contracted, she’s worried. And that worry grows with every new twist in the case that’s discovered. Armed with her favorite Jimmy Choos and her beloved, if quirky, Poopsie, Carole sets out to clear Frank’s name—and just maybe save their lives . . .
256 pages, Hardcover
Published September 30, 2025
81 people are currently reading
4472 people want to read
About the author
Leslie Meier
70 books2,071 followersLeslie Meier lives in Braintree and Harwich (Cape Cod), Massachusetts. She is the creator of 'Lucy Stone', a reporter and amateur sleuth in the fictional seaside village of Tinker's Cove, Maine.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 92 reviews
October 25, 2025
When Leslie Meier announced they were starting a new series, I was intrigued. Having read her 30+ books in the Lucy Stone series, it was bound to offer some great characters. Very much enjoyed the Providence, RI setting and the Italian undertones of the family and connections. Between the real estate angel and the boisterous pup, things look promising. In this debut of the series, we find ourselves getting to know Carole's family and in-laws, plus some friends and various neighbors. Lots of drama, both with the murder and the family dynamics. Looking forward to reading more in the series.
August 13, 2025
Leslie Meier’s new series kicks off with this book, certainly a departure from her beloved Lucy Stone mysteries, but unfortunately, it fails to capture the same charm. As a long-time fan of Meier’s Lucy Stone novels, I approached this book with high hopes, only to find myself disappointed by unlikable characters and a writing style that felt jarring and overly crude.
The story centers on Carole Capobianco, a woman fiercely devoted to her husband, Frank, whose invention, the Bye-Bye Toilet, has brought them newfound wealth. Their attempt to climb the social ladder in Providence, Rhode Island, hits a snag when their application to move to a prestigious address is rejected. Things take a darker turn when the property’s owner is found bludgeoned to death at Frank’s renovation site, and Frank becomes the prime suspect after his earlier threats are recalled. Determined to clear his name, Carole, accompanied by her spoiled Brittany spaniel, Poopsie, dives into an amateur investigation, uncovering secrets and danger at every turn.
While the premise promises a quirky, suspenseful cozy mystery, the execution falls flat. Meier’s attempt to craft a grittier, more modern tone feels forced, with details like Carole’s bathroom habits (“she peed and smoothed some Clinique Moisture Surge on her face”) coming across as gratuitous and off-putting. These moments, presumably meant to underscore the characters’ rough edges, instead alienated this reader and disrupted the narrative flow. The characters themselves are hard to root for—Carole’s blind loyalty to Frank feels one-dimensional, and the supporting cast, including the suspiciously secretive suspects, lacks the warmth or depth that made Lucy Stone’s community so engaging.
The mystery itself is serviceable but lacks the clever twists Meier is capable of delivering. Poopsie, the canine sidekick, adds occasional levity, but even her antics can’t salvage the story’s lack of heart. Fans of Meier’s earlier work may find this book to be a jarring shift, missing the cozy charm and relatable characters that defined the Lucy Stone series. For new readers, the unappealing cast and awkward prose make it a tough sell. I didn’t finish it. I just didn’t want to.
Recommendation: If you’re a Lucy Stone fan, you might want to skip this one or approach with low expectations. For cozy mystery lovers seeking a fresh series, there are stronger options out there.
Thanks to NetGalley and Kensington Cozies for providing me with an advanced digital copy in exchange for an honest review.
The story centers on Carole Capobianco, a woman fiercely devoted to her husband, Frank, whose invention, the Bye-Bye Toilet, has brought them newfound wealth. Their attempt to climb the social ladder in Providence, Rhode Island, hits a snag when their application to move to a prestigious address is rejected. Things take a darker turn when the property’s owner is found bludgeoned to death at Frank’s renovation site, and Frank becomes the prime suspect after his earlier threats are recalled. Determined to clear his name, Carole, accompanied by her spoiled Brittany spaniel, Poopsie, dives into an amateur investigation, uncovering secrets and danger at every turn.
While the premise promises a quirky, suspenseful cozy mystery, the execution falls flat. Meier’s attempt to craft a grittier, more modern tone feels forced, with details like Carole’s bathroom habits (“she peed and smoothed some Clinique Moisture Surge on her face”) coming across as gratuitous and off-putting. These moments, presumably meant to underscore the characters’ rough edges, instead alienated this reader and disrupted the narrative flow. The characters themselves are hard to root for—Carole’s blind loyalty to Frank feels one-dimensional, and the supporting cast, including the suspiciously secretive suspects, lacks the warmth or depth that made Lucy Stone’s community so engaging.
The mystery itself is serviceable but lacks the clever twists Meier is capable of delivering. Poopsie, the canine sidekick, adds occasional levity, but even her antics can’t salvage the story’s lack of heart. Fans of Meier’s earlier work may find this book to be a jarring shift, missing the cozy charm and relatable characters that defined the Lucy Stone series. For new readers, the unappealing cast and awkward prose make it a tough sell. I didn’t finish it. I just didn’t want to.
Recommendation: If you’re a Lucy Stone fan, you might want to skip this one or approach with low expectations. For cozy mystery lovers seeking a fresh series, there are stronger options out there.
Thanks to NetGalley and Kensington Cozies for providing me with an advanced digital copy in exchange for an honest review.
September 18, 2025
I want to thank Netgalley and the author for gifting me the audio version. I don't know this book was just okay. I don't really think any of the characters were memorable and the plot was very cheesy and unrealistic actually. I have read a lot of books from this author and I think her older books were way better. I feel like she just writes now to just make spread liberal woke feminist views and it just starting to get old and blah.
October 14, 2025
I was very intrigued that one of my favorite authors was writing a new series. I actually won a hardcover copy from Goodreads! I was very excited to dig in!
This is a total departure from Tinker’s Cove, Maine and the Lucy Stone murder mystery series.
I loved Lucy Stone watching her family grow up alongside my family. Those books really meant a lot to me. It was very fun to have some parallel experiences. Her mysteries were always enjoyable. Nothing too graphic or disturbing. Very entertaining and definitely a cozy vibe.
Lucy Stone was a penny wise mom and wife. I was very used to her thrifty ways, managing her family budget being a mother and local newspaper reporter. Her husband‘s work was just getting off the ground and not steady. Lots of financial concerns.
This book was quite the departure with a very wealthy main character in Carole Capobianco. For me to enjoy a book I have to resonate in some way with the main character. I could not resonate with her lifestyle of wealth and brand names of clothing and shoes, etc..
I enjoyed Lucy Stone’s black lab family pet. They are one of my favorite dogs. It was a sad day when she left this earth in the books. My family also had a black lab as well. I could not get used to the dog in this book. She had some behavior issues. I just couldn’t get around how the behavior issues were managed, especially when she took her to the vet to give her medication to calm her down. Every time company came over she had to put her in a room with the door closed. Walks were done avoiding other dogs. Who names their dog Poopsie? I love pets in cozy mysteries, but I was disturbed with this dog.
I like the Italian family feel and the roots that the main character came from with her husband building their lives from literally the ground up. Her in-laws were fabulous people! I loved the role in the book that they played. Her children seemed distant from their parents. The daughter was a lawyer and had a minor part. She actually could’ve had more of a role. The son gets in trouble and doesn’t seem to be managing his life very well.
The mystery was OK. It wasn’t riveting for me. At the end when you find out the conclusion of the mystery it was getting pretty exciting there. The author can write a good book. There was a a lot of references near the end of the book about peeing which I thought was indelicate.
There’s not a lot of romance between the main character and her husband, but they are mature adults with adult children. They now have plenty of money, probably more than they need. Polly, Carole’s mother was kind of fun. I think she could’ve been a little more flamboyant and interesting.
The ending left me feeling empty. “Frank, busy beckoning the sommelier, didn’t answer.” After he makes some positive comments in a toast to his wife for solving the murder mystery that he was accused of. She is referring to their dog, helping her as well. Obviously he does not like the dog. That just fell flat for me.
These are my honest thoughts reading the book. I really wanted to give it a good review. I can understand an author wanting to shift gears and try a new series. I can’t imagine keeping up with the series for many years like the author has with the Lucy Stone mysteries. I respect that. Hopefully future books will gel a little better with the characters. Maybe the dog will have better behavior in the next one and be better loved!
This is a total departure from Tinker’s Cove, Maine and the Lucy Stone murder mystery series.
I loved Lucy Stone watching her family grow up alongside my family. Those books really meant a lot to me. It was very fun to have some parallel experiences. Her mysteries were always enjoyable. Nothing too graphic or disturbing. Very entertaining and definitely a cozy vibe.
Lucy Stone was a penny wise mom and wife. I was very used to her thrifty ways, managing her family budget being a mother and local newspaper reporter. Her husband‘s work was just getting off the ground and not steady. Lots of financial concerns.
This book was quite the departure with a very wealthy main character in Carole Capobianco. For me to enjoy a book I have to resonate in some way with the main character. I could not resonate with her lifestyle of wealth and brand names of clothing and shoes, etc..
I enjoyed Lucy Stone’s black lab family pet. They are one of my favorite dogs. It was a sad day when she left this earth in the books. My family also had a black lab as well. I could not get used to the dog in this book. She had some behavior issues. I just couldn’t get around how the behavior issues were managed, especially when she took her to the vet to give her medication to calm her down. Every time company came over she had to put her in a room with the door closed. Walks were done avoiding other dogs. Who names their dog Poopsie? I love pets in cozy mysteries, but I was disturbed with this dog.
I like the Italian family feel and the roots that the main character came from with her husband building their lives from literally the ground up. Her in-laws were fabulous people! I loved the role in the book that they played. Her children seemed distant from their parents. The daughter was a lawyer and had a minor part. She actually could’ve had more of a role. The son gets in trouble and doesn’t seem to be managing his life very well.
The mystery was OK. It wasn’t riveting for me. At the end when you find out the conclusion of the mystery it was getting pretty exciting there. The author can write a good book. There was a a lot of references near the end of the book about peeing which I thought was indelicate.
There’s not a lot of romance between the main character and her husband, but they are mature adults with adult children. They now have plenty of money, probably more than they need. Polly, Carole’s mother was kind of fun. I think she could’ve been a little more flamboyant and interesting.
The ending left me feeling empty. “Frank, busy beckoning the sommelier, didn’t answer.” After he makes some positive comments in a toast to his wife for solving the murder mystery that he was accused of. She is referring to their dog, helping her as well. Obviously he does not like the dog. That just fell flat for me.
These are my honest thoughts reading the book. I really wanted to give it a good review. I can understand an author wanting to shift gears and try a new series. I can’t imagine keeping up with the series for many years like the author has with the Lucy Stone mysteries. I respect that. Hopefully future books will gel a little better with the characters. Maybe the dog will have better behavior in the next one and be better loved!
October 8, 2025
I very rarely ever give anything a one star, but my gosh, this book deserved it! I got to page 46 or so and just said...NO MORE. These characters, including the DOG, were SO ANNOYING! I was getting a headache. I can't believe the author who brought us the beloved Lucy Stone, thought up these abysmal characters! Some of the language was crude(which didn't help), and the characters in the family talked to each other like they didn't even car about each other or what was going on in their lives. Didn't care for the dog or its name (Poopsie...how lame). I know this is a first in the series, but there was absolutely NOTHING in the story that made me the least bit interested in anything that was going on. It just wasn't anything like what I am looking for in a GOOD cozy mystery. I think this author should just stick with writing about the Stone family.
September 27, 2025
Dollycas’s Thoughts
Empty-nesters Frank and Carole Capobianco are excited to make a change in their lives. With Frank’s recently patented Bye-Bye Toilet, they can afford to do so. Of course, their pup, Poopsie, will be spoiled more than ever, and a woman can never have too many Jimmy Choos or Manolo Blahniks, but what they really want is a condo in the prestigious Prospect Place.
The condo dreams go down the toilet when one of the current tenants torpedoed their offer. Hosea Brown, a venture capitalist, has decided Carole and Frank are not the “right sort” to fit in as his new neighbors. Frank lets off a steam when leaving the property about killing “that stuck-up old fossil of a Yankee”. Three months later, Hosea Brown is dead, and Frank is arrested for his murder.
As more evidence comes in, it doesn’t look good for Frank. Can Carole and Poopsie dig up evidence to reveal the real killer? Or will the killer take them down first? She slips on her Jimmy Choos and sets out to plunge through the clues and flush out a murderer as fast as she can with her Brittany spaniel, Poopsie putting her nose to use.
In this first Carole and Poopsie Mystery, we are introduced to Carole, Frank, their children, Frank Jr. (who wants to be called Frank O), and Connie, Frank’s parents, Big Frank and Mom, and Carole’s mom, who wants to be called Polly and Poopsie. We also met the residents of Prospect Place. Knowing everything that goes into creating a new series, I can understand the characters lacking depth, but I could not find one thing about any of these characters that made me want to get invested in their lives. They were dry, inconsiderate, and lacking any warmth.
The mystery had promise and kept me from giving up on the story, but it was pretty basic, without the usual twists and turns or red herrings I expect in a cozy mystery. Carole takes plenty of walks with Poopsie throughout the story, but during the last one, she could have met her demise. It was an exciting takedown that brought the story to an abrupt end. The questions were all answered, but there was no hook to make me want to read the next installment of the series.
I had enjoyed the books I have read in Ms. Meier’s Lucy Stone mysteries. I have gotten behind on them; many are waiting on my TBR shelf, so I was really looking forward to this new series and getting in on it the moment the books were released. However, it hurts to say A Matter of Pedigree was a miss for me. It feels like a different Leslie Meier wrote this story. I am rounding my rating up to 3 stars.
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 Kensington and NetGalley for providing me with an ARC.
Empty-nesters Frank and Carole Capobianco are excited to make a change in their lives. With Frank’s recently patented Bye-Bye Toilet, they can afford to do so. Of course, their pup, Poopsie, will be spoiled more than ever, and a woman can never have too many Jimmy Choos or Manolo Blahniks, but what they really want is a condo in the prestigious Prospect Place.
The condo dreams go down the toilet when one of the current tenants torpedoed their offer. Hosea Brown, a venture capitalist, has decided Carole and Frank are not the “right sort” to fit in as his new neighbors. Frank lets off a steam when leaving the property about killing “that stuck-up old fossil of a Yankee”. Three months later, Hosea Brown is dead, and Frank is arrested for his murder.
As more evidence comes in, it doesn’t look good for Frank. Can Carole and Poopsie dig up evidence to reveal the real killer? Or will the killer take them down first? She slips on her Jimmy Choos and sets out to plunge through the clues and flush out a murderer as fast as she can with her Brittany spaniel, Poopsie putting her nose to use.
In this first Carole and Poopsie Mystery, we are introduced to Carole, Frank, their children, Frank Jr. (who wants to be called Frank O), and Connie, Frank’s parents, Big Frank and Mom, and Carole’s mom, who wants to be called Polly and Poopsie. We also met the residents of Prospect Place. Knowing everything that goes into creating a new series, I can understand the characters lacking depth, but I could not find one thing about any of these characters that made me want to get invested in their lives. They were dry, inconsiderate, and lacking any warmth.
The mystery had promise and kept me from giving up on the story, but it was pretty basic, without the usual twists and turns or red herrings I expect in a cozy mystery. Carole takes plenty of walks with Poopsie throughout the story, but during the last one, she could have met her demise. It was an exciting takedown that brought the story to an abrupt end. The questions were all answered, but there was no hook to make me want to read the next installment of the series.
I had enjoyed the books I have read in Ms. Meier’s Lucy Stone mysteries. I have gotten behind on them; many are waiting on my TBR shelf, so I was really looking forward to this new series and getting in on it the moment the books were released. However, it hurts to say A Matter of Pedigree was a miss for me. It feels like a different Leslie Meier wrote this story. I am rounding my rating up to 3 stars.
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 Kensington and NetGalley for providing me with an ARC.
September 17, 2025
"A Matter of Pedigree (A Carole and Poopsie Mystery #1)" by Leslie Meier is bit of a different world than Ms. Meier's Lucy Stone books. Carole Capobianco is the housewife to low-flow toilet inventor, Frank Capobianco II. So, they have money but they earned it themselves from lower means beginnings. However, they barely act like they never had money. Lots of what they do comes off as rich people problems and a bit "but I'm riiiiich" when something is a slight inconvenience.
Like the other tenants in their high end apartment building complaining about their dog's constant barking. This is a trait of that breed and never really gets explained away. Carole gets so focused on the suddenness of the dog barking that she gets tranquilizers at an emergency vet appointment. Then there's one more instance of a complaint about the dog barking and nothing. Also, having a French Brittany myself, I could totally see this dog doing what it does because mine also does these things.
The naming situation would occasionally get a bit tricky to follow. There are three Frank Capobiancos. Two get referred as Frank and the third gets referred to as Frank O (I had an audiobook so I'm not sure if that's how it was spelled in the book but that's how the narrator said it). Then there's also Carole and her daughter Connie. I get the naming chains and similar names from parent to child but it just gets confusing and tricky to follow in a book world sometimes.
The mystery part was interesting. I like that Carole seems to have a very good relationship with her very Italian inlaws. Her husband is very movie stereotypically Italian business owner and honestly, I don't find him very likable. Her son is a "struggling" artist, nepobaby wannabe artist is more of it. Then her most realistic/down to earth daughter, Connie, is a new lawyer. They keep trying to get her to do things that may be illegal to try to clear Carole's husband of murder charges.
The mystery was interesting for the most part. At least up until it abruptly ended in the last couple chapters. We get one decent clue drop and next chapter Carole is fighting for her life with her dog to the rescue.
Trigger warning for end of chapter 18. An attempted SA scene fairly mildly plays out. Carole saves herself. However, that scene and the following paragraphs after could be a bit triggering for someone sensitive to that.
Like the other tenants in their high end apartment building complaining about their dog's constant barking. This is a trait of that breed and never really gets explained away. Carole gets so focused on the suddenness of the dog barking that she gets tranquilizers at an emergency vet appointment. Then there's one more instance of a complaint about the dog barking and nothing. Also, having a French Brittany myself, I could totally see this dog doing what it does because mine also does these things.
The naming situation would occasionally get a bit tricky to follow. There are three Frank Capobiancos. Two get referred as Frank and the third gets referred to as Frank O (I had an audiobook so I'm not sure if that's how it was spelled in the book but that's how the narrator said it). Then there's also Carole and her daughter Connie. I get the naming chains and similar names from parent to child but it just gets confusing and tricky to follow in a book world sometimes.
The mystery part was interesting. I like that Carole seems to have a very good relationship with her very Italian inlaws. Her husband is very movie stereotypically Italian business owner and honestly, I don't find him very likable. Her son is a "struggling" artist, nepobaby wannabe artist is more of it. Then her most realistic/down to earth daughter, Connie, is a new lawyer. They keep trying to get her to do things that may be illegal to try to clear Carole's husband of murder charges.
The mystery was interesting for the most part. At least up until it abruptly ended in the last couple chapters. We get one decent clue drop and next chapter Carole is fighting for her life with her dog to the rescue.
Trigger warning for end of chapter 18. An attempted SA scene fairly mildly plays out. Carole saves herself. However, that scene and the following paragraphs after could be a bit triggering for someone sensitive to that.
June 15, 2025
When you start out with very little, any improvement is gratefully received. Carole Capobianco would love her husband Frank whatever happened, but the not so small fortune he made with his invention, the Bye-Bye Toilet, has definitely made life easier. It didn't make any difference when they applied to move to a prestige address in their hometown of Providence, Rhodes Island, however, where Frank was heard to threaten the original owner when he refused their application. Unfortunately, when the aforementioned owner was found bludgeoned to death at Frank’s latest renovation project, his comments returned to haunt him as he was arrested for murder!
Determined to clear her husband Carole and her spoilt but loyal Brittany I as Poopsie start investigating. It seems, however, that most of the possible suspects have something to hide, and danger is present at every turn. She can't stop now, though, Frank is relying on her if she can just manage to stay alive to pass on what she discovers!
I was able to read an advanced copy of this thanks to NetGalley and the publishers, Kensington Publishing, Kensington Cozies, but the opinions expressed are my own. I struggled a bit at the beginning of this as Carole, Frank, and Poopsie weren't instantly likeable. The storyline drew me in, however, and I will definitely give book 2 a whirl!
Determined to clear her husband Carole and her spoilt but loyal Brittany I as Poopsie start investigating. It seems, however, that most of the possible suspects have something to hide, and danger is present at every turn. She can't stop now, though, Frank is relying on her if she can just manage to stay alive to pass on what she discovers!
I was able to read an advanced copy of this thanks to NetGalley and the publishers, Kensington Publishing, Kensington Cozies, but the opinions expressed are my own. I struggled a bit at the beginning of this as Carole, Frank, and Poopsie weren't instantly likeable. The storyline drew me in, however, and I will definitely give book 2 a whirl!
September 25, 2025
A Matter of Pedigree is a light, quirky mystery that blends upper-crust drama with small doses of humor. The premise is fun: an empty-nester with a spoiled dog, a flashy shoe collection, and a husband under suspicion of murder. Carole makes for an amusing amateur sleuth, especially with Poopsie by her side.
That said, the story was just okay for me. While there were some entertaining moments and a few decent twists, the mystery itself wasn’t particularly gripping, and the pacing sometimes dragged. It felt more like a pleasant diversion than a standout whodunit.
Overall, it’s a decent, cozy read. It is enjoyable enough if you’re in the mood for something light, but it doesn't leave a lasting impression.
That said, the story was just okay for me. While there were some entertaining moments and a few decent twists, the mystery itself wasn’t particularly gripping, and the pacing sometimes dragged. It felt more like a pleasant diversion than a standout whodunit.
Overall, it’s a decent, cozy read. It is enjoyable enough if you’re in the mood for something light, but it doesn't leave a lasting impression.
October 2, 2025
A Matter of Pedigree is a brand new series by Leslie Meier and it doesn't disappoint. I love the characters who are genuinely hard working folks who have made the American dream work, yet still face classism because they weren't born rich. This murder mystery will have you turning pages to find out what happens next!
September 30, 2025
2.5 stars? I mean, there isn't anything specific that was "bad," I just didn't like the main characters, who I assume will continue the series. Carole and Frank are caricatures of new money and examples of why old money doesn't like new money. The story gets off to a bad start for me when they offer double the $2million price for an apartment. I am sorry but no. Even with Frank's great business, he is not at the level where he can blow an extra $2million. Needless to say, that type of behavior continued throughout the book. I couldn't find any connection with Carole and her dog, Poopsie, didn't develop any character. I think the book might have worked better if I hadn't instantly disliked the Capobiancos and if Carole had a sidekick to smooth out the edges. Maybe that happens in book #2, but I won't know. If you need me, I'll be over here reading the Lucy Stone series.
Thanks to NetGalley and Kensington for a copy of the book. This review is my own opinion.
Thanks to NetGalley and Kensington for a copy of the book. This review is my own opinion.
November 15, 2025
Too many holes in the narrative.
December 6, 2025
fun new series from a favorite author...book 1 was great! Cant wait for more!
October 11, 2025
Netgalley read.
I started a list of all the horrible things the MC and her husband did but it’s too long to share. I didn’t care at all about anyone in the story, I only wish someone would rescue the dog, the dog is not at fault, it didn’t pick its owner. Horrible characters and the mystery was dull and clunky. If I didn’t know better I would have guessed that this was a debut. I wish they were all thrown in jail at the end.
I started a list of all the horrible things the MC and her husband did but it’s too long to share. I didn’t care at all about anyone in the story, I only wish someone would rescue the dog, the dog is not at fault, it didn’t pick its owner. Horrible characters and the mystery was dull and clunky. If I didn’t know better I would have guessed that this was a debut. I wish they were all thrown in jail at the end.
December 7, 2025
Could only make it through 4 chapters. Totally unlikeable characters. I couldn’t tell whether they were supposed to be written as “funny” people, or totally awful. And frankly, the story line thus far was totally annoying. I had no desire to read more and give the book more time to develop its story. Life is too short to waste time on a book that wasn’t good.
September 8, 2025
The mystery in this is fine, the problem is that every character is awful and there is no one to root for. I don't know if Meier intended for her lead to be taken as funny and amusing, but she comes off as a self-centered, law-skirting rich person - even if she came from nothing. It wasn't really a vibe that worked for me - inconsiderate people and bad dog owners as the character you're meant to be rooting for aren't my thing - but unlikable heroines/heroes do work for some people, so I'm sure there will be others who enjoy it more than I do. It's a shame, because I have enjoyed some of Meier's Lucy Stone books, but just chalking it up as a not for me.
*****Copy from the publisher via NetGalley for review consideration. All opinions are my own.*****
*****Copy from the publisher via NetGalley for review consideration. All opinions are my own.*****
June 7, 2025
A Matter of Pedigree by Leslie Meier is a great cozy mystery that is the first in a new series: A Carole and Poopsie Mystery.
I have always loved the Lucy Stone Mystery series so when I heard Ms Meier was coming out with a new one, I had to snatch it up.
This is definitely a change from Lucy, small-town reporter/mother/amateur sleuth. This is Carole, a well-to-do Rhode Island mother/wife/ and unexpected amateur sleuth. Even though the other series is also modern, Carole has more wealth, resources, and opportunities for investigation, and she definitely didn’t anticipate becoming an investigator…but when her husband is wrongly accused of murder, she finds that if she wants to help prevent him from being convicted…she is going to have to do a bit of digging herself. The more she digs, the more suspects she finds…and the more she finds she enjoys it.
Looking forward to where this series can go.
4/5 stars
Thank you NG and Kensington Publishing- Kensington Cozies for this wonderful arc and in return I am submitting my unbiased and voluntary review and opinion.
I am posting this review to my GR and Bookbub accounts immediately and will post it to my Amazon, Instagram, and B&N accounts upon publication on 9/30/25.
I have always loved the Lucy Stone Mystery series so when I heard Ms Meier was coming out with a new one, I had to snatch it up.
This is definitely a change from Lucy, small-town reporter/mother/amateur sleuth. This is Carole, a well-to-do Rhode Island mother/wife/ and unexpected amateur sleuth. Even though the other series is also modern, Carole has more wealth, resources, and opportunities for investigation, and she definitely didn’t anticipate becoming an investigator…but when her husband is wrongly accused of murder, she finds that if she wants to help prevent him from being convicted…she is going to have to do a bit of digging herself. The more she digs, the more suspects she finds…and the more she finds she enjoys it.
Looking forward to where this series can go.
4/5 stars
Thank you NG and Kensington Publishing- Kensington Cozies for this wonderful arc and in return I am submitting my unbiased and voluntary review and opinion.
I am posting this review to my GR and Bookbub accounts immediately and will post it to my Amazon, Instagram, and B&N accounts upon publication on 9/30/25.
September 21, 2025
I was fortunate enough to win this from a Goodreads giveaway. I thoroughly enjoyed this cozy mystery. The characters were well developed and fun and the premise and development of the murder mystery were a quick read. I would have given it 4 stars but the ending was so quick and short that it didn’t match the tempo of the rest of the book. I was left feeling a bit whiplashed.
January 1, 2026
https://openbooksociety.com/article/a...
Brought to you by Jeanie
Welcome to Province, Rhode Island in this first in a new cozy mystery series! This cozy started much slower than I prefer. The mystery itself was intriguing with red herrings and several plot twists. Carole and Frank, at first, seemed the definition of nouveau riche. Frank, a lifelong plumber, could use a class in social graces, but Carole does adore him. Carole has a good eye for colors and interior design, and an even better eye for fashionable attire. I did develop warmer feelings for Carole, especially after seeing her with Giovana, her dear mother-in-law.
Frank and Carole’s lifestyle had changed dramatically. They once lived in a tenement in Providence, in a well-cared for building owned by Frank’s parents. They are now empty-nesters except for Carole’s spoiled Brittany Spaniel, Poopsie. They bid to purchase a multi-million-dollar condo in what was once a huge ancestral home, Prospect Place. When there were only two family members left, the brothers divided it into five condos.
The real estate agent took Carole and Frank to meet one of the owners, Hosea Browne, selling a condo for his brother, Jon. All condo owners except Jon were there to meet and hopefully approve of the Capobiancos. The other owners fully approved of them. Hosea, however, refused them, saying they should live among people like them?!? On the way out, Frank muttered just loud enough for all to hear that he would like to kill that old man.
Five months later, Carole, her pup, Poopsie, and Frank lived in a luxury apartment as a short-term solution. They had a wonderful view that included The Factory, a mixed-use project being built within walking distance. Frank’s family’s plumbing business had the contract to provide all of the plumbing for the project. Including his patented, very expensive Bye Bye toilet. It exceeded all other similar fixtures and was the source of their new-found wealth.
Hosea was an investor at The Factory job site, and was found murdered there. Frank’s competitor for the plumbing contract told the police that Frank must have killed him. Even though Frank helped them get the HVAC contract, Mitch Chase simply wanted to cause trouble for Frank.
Mitch Chase convinced the police so well that those who owned condos at Prospect Place were also questioned. They told the police of Frank’s threat to kill Hosea. Frank was questioned, and subsequently charged with murder. Thankfully, he was released on bail. The murder weapon was not found, but the wound looked as if caused by a pipe.
Frank, in all his bluster and panic, wanted Carole to find who the real killer was to keep him out of prison. I’m not sure if Carole had ever read a mystery, but Mom (Giovana) was a good teacher. Frank’s mom and Carole were much closer than Carole and her own mother, and Giovana got them into Prospect Place to snoop. They would be cleaning ladies in disguise, as Prospect Place had a help wanted post. They hoped to learn something from the other owners. What a tangled web that produced! Giovana learned more from her friends and observing the home than they did from the condo owners.
The characters were a work in progress, and I liked Carole and her heart of gold much better as the story continued. She became more like a fully-dimensional person. She was actually a warm, witty, somewhat quirky lady who developed a new confidence borne of helping solve the murder with Poopsie’s help.
Frank wasn’t my favorite, and that didn’t change by the end of the novel. He remained the wheeling, dealing, plumbing specialist with the demeanor of a man who spent much of his life on construction sites. He did, however, have a huge soft spot for Carole.
A quick moral of this mystery? Never say out loud that you’d like to kill someone! It doesn’t go well for you if they are murdered. While the novel starts slow with one-dimensional characters, it did pick up speed, especially when Giovana and Carole donned cleaning woman duds. Carole will become a fine sleuth over time, especially with Poopsie’s help. I recommend this first in series to those who appreciate cozy mysteries with unlikely sleuths and dogs.
Brought to you by Jeanie
Welcome to Province, Rhode Island in this first in a new cozy mystery series! This cozy started much slower than I prefer. The mystery itself was intriguing with red herrings and several plot twists. Carole and Frank, at first, seemed the definition of nouveau riche. Frank, a lifelong plumber, could use a class in social graces, but Carole does adore him. Carole has a good eye for colors and interior design, and an even better eye for fashionable attire. I did develop warmer feelings for Carole, especially after seeing her with Giovana, her dear mother-in-law.
Frank and Carole’s lifestyle had changed dramatically. They once lived in a tenement in Providence, in a well-cared for building owned by Frank’s parents. They are now empty-nesters except for Carole’s spoiled Brittany Spaniel, Poopsie. They bid to purchase a multi-million-dollar condo in what was once a huge ancestral home, Prospect Place. When there were only two family members left, the brothers divided it into five condos.
The real estate agent took Carole and Frank to meet one of the owners, Hosea Browne, selling a condo for his brother, Jon. All condo owners except Jon were there to meet and hopefully approve of the Capobiancos. The other owners fully approved of them. Hosea, however, refused them, saying they should live among people like them?!? On the way out, Frank muttered just loud enough for all to hear that he would like to kill that old man.
Five months later, Carole, her pup, Poopsie, and Frank lived in a luxury apartment as a short-term solution. They had a wonderful view that included The Factory, a mixed-use project being built within walking distance. Frank’s family’s plumbing business had the contract to provide all of the plumbing for the project. Including his patented, very expensive Bye Bye toilet. It exceeded all other similar fixtures and was the source of their new-found wealth.
Hosea was an investor at The Factory job site, and was found murdered there. Frank’s competitor for the plumbing contract told the police that Frank must have killed him. Even though Frank helped them get the HVAC contract, Mitch Chase simply wanted to cause trouble for Frank.
Mitch Chase convinced the police so well that those who owned condos at Prospect Place were also questioned. They told the police of Frank’s threat to kill Hosea. Frank was questioned, and subsequently charged with murder. Thankfully, he was released on bail. The murder weapon was not found, but the wound looked as if caused by a pipe.
Frank, in all his bluster and panic, wanted Carole to find who the real killer was to keep him out of prison. I’m not sure if Carole had ever read a mystery, but Mom (Giovana) was a good teacher. Frank’s mom and Carole were much closer than Carole and her own mother, and Giovana got them into Prospect Place to snoop. They would be cleaning ladies in disguise, as Prospect Place had a help wanted post. They hoped to learn something from the other owners. What a tangled web that produced! Giovana learned more from her friends and observing the home than they did from the condo owners.
The characters were a work in progress, and I liked Carole and her heart of gold much better as the story continued. She became more like a fully-dimensional person. She was actually a warm, witty, somewhat quirky lady who developed a new confidence borne of helping solve the murder with Poopsie’s help.
Frank wasn’t my favorite, and that didn’t change by the end of the novel. He remained the wheeling, dealing, plumbing specialist with the demeanor of a man who spent much of his life on construction sites. He did, however, have a huge soft spot for Carole.
A quick moral of this mystery? Never say out loud that you’d like to kill someone! It doesn’t go well for you if they are murdered. While the novel starts slow with one-dimensional characters, it did pick up speed, especially when Giovana and Carole donned cleaning woman duds. Carole will become a fine sleuth over time, especially with Poopsie’s help. I recommend this first in series to those who appreciate cozy mysteries with unlikely sleuths and dogs.
September 14, 2025
I enjoy this book. This is a new to me author but it won't be the last time I pick up one of her books, as I enjoyed her humour. The story mostly focus on the mystery but does give you a little bit of home life drama, which the author uses to paint a vivid picture of the characters making them easy to imagine and like. I especially liked the antics and dressing up while under cover. The story has a real family vibe to it and I liked how everybody got involved in solving the mystery, even the dog. They are very down to earth but give the impression there newly acquired wealth has them playing a role, that they are not totally comfortable with. The story was well thought out giving the main character plenty of chances and unique opportunity to question her suspects. The mystery had plenty of suspects to keep you guessing and enjoying the ride. Looking forward to the next book and also checking out her other series.
When Frank's invention takes off, it sees the money rolling. Frank and his wife Carole, decide it's time to move to a place more fitting to there station in life. They try applying for a luxury co-op in a prestige building by offering double the asking price, only for it to be turned down by the owner. When the man is found dead on one of Frank's building sites, with the threat he muttered after the rejection he becomes the number one suspect. Carole can't let her husband go to jail, so decides along with her mother in law the prestige building needs a new cleaner and while She is there it will give her plenty of opportunities to find the real killer. Can Carole clean up the mess her husband finds himself in or will she need to learn how to bake a cake with a file in?
I liked the narrator. Her accents helped to paint a clear picture of the characters and also provide a few laughs. I would listen to her again.
I was given this free review copy audio book at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
When Frank's invention takes off, it sees the money rolling. Frank and his wife Carole, decide it's time to move to a place more fitting to there station in life. They try applying for a luxury co-op in a prestige building by offering double the asking price, only for it to be turned down by the owner. When the man is found dead on one of Frank's building sites, with the threat he muttered after the rejection he becomes the number one suspect. Carole can't let her husband go to jail, so decides along with her mother in law the prestige building needs a new cleaner and while She is there it will give her plenty of opportunities to find the real killer. Can Carole clean up the mess her husband finds himself in or will she need to learn how to bake a cake with a file in?
I liked the narrator. Her accents helped to paint a clear picture of the characters and also provide a few laughs. I would listen to her again.
I was given this free review copy audio book at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
October 3, 2025
This was a fun story. The characters were interesting to say the least! They are quite wealthy and, as far as I could tell, not the most ground in reality, especially the main character Carole and her pup Poopsie! She's part snob, part clueless, and part curious all at the same time. She can get a little annoying but in a good way. It fits the story and creates some laughs.
This book is the first in a new series. Carole and her beloved Poopsie live with her husband Frank. Frank has recently patented a product and they are now living large. Carole is quite happy now that they are empty-nesters and she can focus on the important things like her dog and her shoe collection. When they apply to live in an ultra snobby luxury co-op in a highly prestigious building they are quite excited. That is, until they are denied the property due to being vetoed by venture capitalist Hosea Brown. When Frank learns this he is heard fuming about how he could kill that "old Yankee". So, three months later when Hosea is found dead after being stabbed to death, guess who becomes the #1 suspect? Now, Carole is determined to figure out who really did it and clear Frank's name.
This book was good. It had some good twists and turns and the story line was fun, It did get a little hard to follow at times as it went from one thing to another and somehow I lost the connection for a bit. All in all though this was fun..
I listened to this on audio as I was lucky enough to get the chance to review it. The narrator was really quite good at pulling off the voice of the main character. She gave her the "rich" voice and mannerisms perfectly. It was a really good book to listen to on audio.
This book is the first in a new series. Carole and her beloved Poopsie live with her husband Frank. Frank has recently patented a product and they are now living large. Carole is quite happy now that they are empty-nesters and she can focus on the important things like her dog and her shoe collection. When they apply to live in an ultra snobby luxury co-op in a highly prestigious building they are quite excited. That is, until they are denied the property due to being vetoed by venture capitalist Hosea Brown. When Frank learns this he is heard fuming about how he could kill that "old Yankee". So, three months later when Hosea is found dead after being stabbed to death, guess who becomes the #1 suspect? Now, Carole is determined to figure out who really did it and clear Frank's name.
This book was good. It had some good twists and turns and the story line was fun, It did get a little hard to follow at times as it went from one thing to another and somehow I lost the connection for a bit. All in all though this was fun..
I listened to this on audio as I was lucky enough to get the chance to review it. The narrator was really quite good at pulling off the voice of the main character. She gave her the "rich" voice and mannerisms perfectly. It was a really good book to listen to on audio.
January 8, 2026
"A Matter of Pedigree" is book #1 in the "Carole and Poopsie Mystery" by Leslie Meier.
The backstory of the core characters, Carole and Frank, state that they came from working class families but through hard work and luck, they have become quite wealthy. You would think that would - at least to a degree - keep them in touch with reality but you would be mistaken. They don't like rules or assume they don't apply to them. Money not only buys them all the designer items they want but if you grease the right palms things will work in your favor.
Flaunting their wealth and privilege is pure arrogance and a major turn off for core characters that you are supposedly cheering on. Completely cringe-worthy and unrelatable to most readers.
Then there is the pampered pedigree pooch with a lengthy name better known as "Poopsie". She may have her moments of helpfulness and comfort but with all due respect, Poopsie is a spoiled brat with a nasty attitude to pretty much anyone but the immediate family - and even they incur her wrath on a regular basis.
As for the murder? The victim was an arrogant ass but I really didn't care who did it. The whole story was so full of stereotypes, wealth, self righteous privilege and bad behaviour I just wanted it to be over.
I have enjoyed Leslie Meier's "Lucy Stone" series but this book was just not worth a read. Thankfully, I waited to get this at a deep discount so paid under $2 on Kindle. How this proposed series got green lighted is beyond reason. There were also a number of typos - mostly two syllable words shown as two words or words in wrong order/repeated that distracted from what was already a mess. JMO
The backstory of the core characters, Carole and Frank, state that they came from working class families but through hard work and luck, they have become quite wealthy. You would think that would - at least to a degree - keep them in touch with reality but you would be mistaken. They don't like rules or assume they don't apply to them. Money not only buys them all the designer items they want but if you grease the right palms things will work in your favor.
Flaunting their wealth and privilege is pure arrogance and a major turn off for core characters that you are supposedly cheering on. Completely cringe-worthy and unrelatable to most readers.
Then there is the pampered pedigree pooch with a lengthy name better known as "Poopsie". She may have her moments of helpfulness and comfort but with all due respect, Poopsie is a spoiled brat with a nasty attitude to pretty much anyone but the immediate family - and even they incur her wrath on a regular basis.
As for the murder? The victim was an arrogant ass but I really didn't care who did it. The whole story was so full of stereotypes, wealth, self righteous privilege and bad behaviour I just wanted it to be over.
I have enjoyed Leslie Meier's "Lucy Stone" series but this book was just not worth a read. Thankfully, I waited to get this at a deep discount so paid under $2 on Kindle. How this proposed series got green lighted is beyond reason. There were also a number of typos - mostly two syllable words shown as two words or words in wrong order/repeated that distracted from what was already a mess. JMO
January 13, 2026
I am a huge Leslie Meier fan. However, this book doesn't even seem like she authored it. I like cozies because they are a leisurely respite from the stresses of life. Reading the first chapter, I knew this book was not anywhere near as entertaining as the Lucy Stone books. The characters don't really seem to care about each other and don't seem to have much depth. I could not connect with the main character, Carole, who is more interested in her designer clothes/shoes and her dog more than anything else. Poopsie as the dog's name almost made me not want to read this in the first place. The dog is very annoying and the name Poopsie is way too cutesy, especially for a dog who does nothing but bark and snap at people and other dogs. I am Italian and I found the Italian stereotypes to be a bit offensive. Plus, it's been overplayed so much. I cannot understand why it's important to the story that we had to know she peed on several occasions. Chapter 18 was way too much for me with the attempted rape and it seemed Carole was most infuriated by the fact that the perpetrator was going to cut her $900 pair of jeans. Seriously?! There is also a reference to a man having chocolate colored hands with pink palms. Isn't that racist?
I forged through to page 100 and I simply could not take it anymore. I felt like I was wasting my time. I have a theory that the publisher wanted Leslie to write something more edgy, because currently most things seem to have to be edgy to be entertaining. I can totally see an author trying out a different writing style and different characters, but this book series is not up to Leslie's writing skills.
I forged through to page 100 and I simply could not take it anymore. I felt like I was wasting my time. I have a theory that the publisher wanted Leslie to write something more edgy, because currently most things seem to have to be edgy to be entertaining. I can totally see an author trying out a different writing style and different characters, but this book series is not up to Leslie's writing skills.
October 18, 2025
Disclosure: I won this book in a Goodreads Giveaway. This is my honest review.
Plot synopsis: Carole and husband Frank have come into money due to his invention of a low-flow toilet called Bye-Bye Toilet. This enables them to look at some pricey properties well above where they live in Federal Hill (Providence, RI). They put in an offer $2M over asking price in a historic condo but are turned down by one owner (all owners must vote unanimously for a new owner to be allowed to buy). Hosea says they would not be happy there since they would not be with people like themselves (Italian perhaps, or noveau-riche). As Frank and Carole leave, Frank tosses out his typical epithet, saying he could kill that guy. So, when Hosea is murdered at a job site that Franks's company is a contractor on, Frank comes up as the main suspect. It's up to Carole and a cast of characters to try to find out who really killed Hosea and clear Frank.
I wanted to love this book. I enjoy the Lucy Stone series that Meier writes, and had high hopes that the character would be just as engaging. But where Lucy Stone is likeable, and very relatable, this character is shallow. Meier trots out all the collector and high end luxury items she can for Carole's wardrobe. One person in the book must have money problems because all she has is a Coach bag. Seriously??!!
The murder of Hosea was solved and the actual perps made sense. In between, there was just a lot of fluff. If this series continues, it will continue without me.
Plot synopsis: Carole and husband Frank have come into money due to his invention of a low-flow toilet called Bye-Bye Toilet. This enables them to look at some pricey properties well above where they live in Federal Hill (Providence, RI). They put in an offer $2M over asking price in a historic condo but are turned down by one owner (all owners must vote unanimously for a new owner to be allowed to buy). Hosea says they would not be happy there since they would not be with people like themselves (Italian perhaps, or noveau-riche). As Frank and Carole leave, Frank tosses out his typical epithet, saying he could kill that guy. So, when Hosea is murdered at a job site that Franks's company is a contractor on, Frank comes up as the main suspect. It's up to Carole and a cast of characters to try to find out who really killed Hosea and clear Frank.
I wanted to love this book. I enjoy the Lucy Stone series that Meier writes, and had high hopes that the character would be just as engaging. But where Lucy Stone is likeable, and very relatable, this character is shallow. Meier trots out all the collector and high end luxury items she can for Carole's wardrobe. One person in the book must have money problems because all she has is a Coach bag. Seriously??!!
The murder of Hosea was solved and the actual perps made sense. In between, there was just a lot of fluff. If this series continues, it will continue without me.
November 30, 2025
A Matter of Pedigree is the first book in the Carole and Poopsie Mystery Series by Leslie Meier. The amateur sleuth is Carole Capobianco, a wealthy empty nester with a spoiled Brittany Spaniel and an impressive shoe collection.
Carole and her husband Frank live in Rhode Island. They are newly wealthy and looking to purchase a luxury co-op.
But one of the uppity residents doesn't want them as a neighbor. When the snooty resident ends up dead, Frank becomes the number one suspect and Carole starts sleuthing to clear his name.
The author, Leslie Meier, is a seasoned cozy writer but was new to me. I am glad I tried this book because I thoroughly enjoyed it. A Matter of Pedigree is different than most cozies because the sleuth and her husband are a bit rough around the edges and not immediately likeable or relatable like most cozy protagonists.
However, they grew on me. Carole is persistent and clearly loves her family. Frank, though quite gruff and no Romeo, loves Carole as well. Frank's mother is a gem of a character and added humor to every scene she was in.
Poopsie also makes a great sidekick and has better sleuthing instincts than the humans in this story, which I found quite amusing.
After reading the book, I listened to the audio version. I think I actually preferred the audio format because the narrator, Colleen Marlo, does a fantastic job of voicing the characters.
I hope to see more books in this series. I definitely want to read more Carole and Poopsie adventures!
Carole and her husband Frank live in Rhode Island. They are newly wealthy and looking to purchase a luxury co-op.
But one of the uppity residents doesn't want them as a neighbor. When the snooty resident ends up dead, Frank becomes the number one suspect and Carole starts sleuthing to clear his name.
The author, Leslie Meier, is a seasoned cozy writer but was new to me. I am glad I tried this book because I thoroughly enjoyed it. A Matter of Pedigree is different than most cozies because the sleuth and her husband are a bit rough around the edges and not immediately likeable or relatable like most cozy protagonists.
However, they grew on me. Carole is persistent and clearly loves her family. Frank, though quite gruff and no Romeo, loves Carole as well. Frank's mother is a gem of a character and added humor to every scene she was in.
Poopsie also makes a great sidekick and has better sleuthing instincts than the humans in this story, which I found quite amusing.
After reading the book, I listened to the audio version. I think I actually preferred the audio format because the narrator, Colleen Marlo, does a fantastic job of voicing the characters.
I hope to see more books in this series. I definitely want to read more Carole and Poopsie adventures!
January 14, 2026
I wanted to stop reading this book when I was about halfway through because I was so disappointed. With the exception of Carole's in-laws, there is nothing attractive about the cast of characters, including the poor dog. Nor was I thrilled when, in one sentence, Carole notes that she does not particularly like dogs! Her husband doesn't like the dog, either! Why do they have a dog--is it because Carole believes that wealthy people are expected to have a pedigreed pooch? I can only conclude that the dog's presence is necessary for the resolution of the question of who killed the victim.
Carole, the wife of Frank, the accused murderer, is portrayed as a rather unsympathetic, shallow caricature of the newly rich; Frank is rough around the edges although I ended up rooting for him.
Oddly enough, as a political scientist, I found myself really interested in the descriptions of Italian-American Rhode Islanders: their family life, how they do business in the community, how they think about and relate to WASPS. Naturally, I wondered if this portrayal is accurate. However, based on personal experience and observation, I believe that the author really nailed the old- family Yankee prejudices. How odd, I thought, that this aspect of the book was just as interesting to me as the mystery!
Also, the writing style is a puzzling divergence from the author's Lucy Stone series which is of the cozy genre; this book doesn't feel much like a cozy! It is almost as this book and the Stone series were written by two different authors.
Carole, the wife of Frank, the accused murderer, is portrayed as a rather unsympathetic, shallow caricature of the newly rich; Frank is rough around the edges although I ended up rooting for him.
Oddly enough, as a political scientist, I found myself really interested in the descriptions of Italian-American Rhode Islanders: their family life, how they do business in the community, how they think about and relate to WASPS. Naturally, I wondered if this portrayal is accurate. However, based on personal experience and observation, I believe that the author really nailed the old- family Yankee prejudices. How odd, I thought, that this aspect of the book was just as interesting to me as the mystery!
Also, the writing style is a puzzling divergence from the author's Lucy Stone series which is of the cozy genre; this book doesn't feel much like a cozy! It is almost as this book and the Stone series were written by two different authors.
October 27, 2025
I had high hopes for A Matter of Pedigree. I like starting a series at the beginning and Carole and Frank Capobianco sounded like a good couple to base a series around. Turned out I was not a fan.
Carole and Frank are newly wealthy, thanks to a toilet Frank invented. They make a too high offer on a fancy apartment, but are rejected as “not the right people.” When the property owner is found dead, Frank becomes a suspect and Carole takes it upon herself to prove his innocence.
While I loved Frank’s parents and the delicious Italian foods they cook, Carole and Frank themselves were annoying. I think Carole’s supposed to be funny and quirky, but she’s mostly just self-centered and I got tired of hearing about all of the luxury brand items she wore/used. I could have liked her dog, Poopsie, but she was not a great dog owner. She basically drugged the poor puppy so it would stop barking. I understand reactive dogs, the ones you can only walk when other people aren’t around – I have one, but I’m not sure I really need one in a cozy mystery, Frank wasn’t particularly likable either, and their son, Frank O, was supposedly an artist, but his main traits seemed to be lazy and has blue hair.
The mystery was fine, and maybe the twist was that the solution was actually fairly simple.
I listened to the audio and the narrator did a good job. For better or worse, she was able to get the the right mix of rich snob and blue collar roots.
Carole and Frank are newly wealthy, thanks to a toilet Frank invented. They make a too high offer on a fancy apartment, but are rejected as “not the right people.” When the property owner is found dead, Frank becomes a suspect and Carole takes it upon herself to prove his innocence.
While I loved Frank’s parents and the delicious Italian foods they cook, Carole and Frank themselves were annoying. I think Carole’s supposed to be funny and quirky, but she’s mostly just self-centered and I got tired of hearing about all of the luxury brand items she wore/used. I could have liked her dog, Poopsie, but she was not a great dog owner. She basically drugged the poor puppy so it would stop barking. I understand reactive dogs, the ones you can only walk when other people aren’t around – I have one, but I’m not sure I really need one in a cozy mystery, Frank wasn’t particularly likable either, and their son, Frank O, was supposedly an artist, but his main traits seemed to be lazy and has blue hair.
The mystery was fine, and maybe the twist was that the solution was actually fairly simple.
I listened to the audio and the narrator did a good job. For better or worse, she was able to get the the right mix of rich snob and blue collar roots.
September 8, 2025
MATTER OF PEDIGREE BY Leslie Meier, (Part of the Carole and Poopsie Mystery series)
Veteran cozy mystery author Leslie Meier introduces another lighthearted entry in her Carole and Poopsie series, featuring best friends turned amateur sleuths Carole and her spirited dachshund, Poopsie. When a prestigious dog show in Tinker’s Cove is thrown into chaos by the suspicious death of a high-profile breeder, Carole and Poopsie find themselves untangling a web of rivalries, secrets, and unexpected motives.
Meier’s signature blend of small-town atmosphere, humor, and tightly plotted mystery is on display here. The interplay between Carole and her canine companion adds charm, while the vividly drawn backdrop of the competitive dog show world provides a fresh setting rich with quirky characters and plenty of suspects. Though longtime fans will appreciate the nods to earlier installments, newcomers can comfortably enter the series here.
As with Meier’s Lucy Stone novels, the tone remains cozy and accessible, with just enough suspense to keep readers turning pages.
Verdict: A playful, engaging mystery perfect for dog lovers and fans of character-driven cozies. Recommended for library collections where Meier’s work and animal-themed mysteries circulate well.
Veteran cozy mystery author Leslie Meier introduces another lighthearted entry in her Carole and Poopsie series, featuring best friends turned amateur sleuths Carole and her spirited dachshund, Poopsie. When a prestigious dog show in Tinker’s Cove is thrown into chaos by the suspicious death of a high-profile breeder, Carole and Poopsie find themselves untangling a web of rivalries, secrets, and unexpected motives.
Meier’s signature blend of small-town atmosphere, humor, and tightly plotted mystery is on display here. The interplay between Carole and her canine companion adds charm, while the vividly drawn backdrop of the competitive dog show world provides a fresh setting rich with quirky characters and plenty of suspects. Though longtime fans will appreciate the nods to earlier installments, newcomers can comfortably enter the series here.
As with Meier’s Lucy Stone novels, the tone remains cozy and accessible, with just enough suspense to keep readers turning pages.
Verdict: A playful, engaging mystery perfect for dog lovers and fans of character-driven cozies. Recommended for library collections where Meier’s work and animal-themed mysteries circulate well.
September 27, 2025
Review: *A Matter of Pedigree* by Leslie Meier — ★★★☆☆**
**Narrated by: Coleen Marlo — ★★★☆☆**
This book was a miss for me.
Carol and Frank Capobianco have recently come into sudden wealth thanks to a patented toilet invention. They're portrayed as blue-collar, down-to-earth people—but when Frank is charged with the murder of venture capitalist Hosea Brown, things take a bizarre turn.
To enjoy this story, you’d need a high tolerance for eye-roll-worthy decisions. Carol and Frank’s behavior throughout is puzzling at best, frustrating at worst. Frank barely reacts to being in jail, and even when their son is hospitalized after a fire, neither parent shows believable concern. Their reactions just didn’t ring true, which made it hard to stay invested.
Also, the dog Poopsie serves no real purpose in the story aside from being mildly annoying.
Ultimately, I just couldn’t connect with the characters or the plot. That said, this story might resonate differently with another audience.
**Thank you to Dreamscape Media and NetGalley for the advance listening copy in exchange for an honest review.**
**Narrated by: Coleen Marlo — ★★★☆☆**
This book was a miss for me.
Carol and Frank Capobianco have recently come into sudden wealth thanks to a patented toilet invention. They're portrayed as blue-collar, down-to-earth people—but when Frank is charged with the murder of venture capitalist Hosea Brown, things take a bizarre turn.
To enjoy this story, you’d need a high tolerance for eye-roll-worthy decisions. Carol and Frank’s behavior throughout is puzzling at best, frustrating at worst. Frank barely reacts to being in jail, and even when their son is hospitalized after a fire, neither parent shows believable concern. Their reactions just didn’t ring true, which made it hard to stay invested.
Also, the dog Poopsie serves no real purpose in the story aside from being mildly annoying.
Ultimately, I just couldn’t connect with the characters or the plot. That said, this story might resonate differently with another audience.
**Thank you to Dreamscape Media and NetGalley for the advance listening copy in exchange for an honest review.**
September 30, 2025
Leslie Meier’s new series takes us to Rhode Island where empty-nesters Carole and Frank have high hopes about a new condo. But we all know how HOA boards can be persnickety and when the vote doesn’t go their way, Frank makes a few choice comments, and unfortunately, Hosea Brown later turns up dead, making Frank suspect #1.
I am a huge fan of Meier’s Lucy Stone series and enjoyed the quirky characters in this one, too. While that one has slightly younger couples who are starting their families at the beginning of the series, with young kids and school runs and cupcakes to bake, this one has adult kids who have flown the nest, and Carole fretting about Frank’s propensity for heart attacks, lots of yummy Italian food, and a good mystery that I really enjoyed. I love cozies that have dogs in them, so I loved that Carole had Poopsie, and there was a pitbull (forgot their name) in the story who I enjoyed as well. 5/5 stars.
Disclaimer: I received a complimentary ARC copy of this book from Kensington and NetGalley for review purposes.
I am a huge fan of Meier’s Lucy Stone series and enjoyed the quirky characters in this one, too. While that one has slightly younger couples who are starting their families at the beginning of the series, with young kids and school runs and cupcakes to bake, this one has adult kids who have flown the nest, and Carole fretting about Frank’s propensity for heart attacks, lots of yummy Italian food, and a good mystery that I really enjoyed. I love cozies that have dogs in them, so I loved that Carole had Poopsie, and there was a pitbull (forgot their name) in the story who I enjoyed as well. 5/5 stars.
Disclaimer: I received a complimentary ARC copy of this book from Kensington and NetGalley for review purposes.
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