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The Cat Lady Chronicles #3
A Skirl of Sorcery
Death has a new address—and it’s Kit McCafferty’s.
When Kit offers a room to a powerless ban sith who has lost her magic, she sets off a chain reaction across Coldstream’s supernatural streets. Her neighbors are panicking. Dangerous werewolves are on the prowl. And Kit finds herself trying to solve several desperate problems all at once.
Kit knows the world’s a messy place, especially when magic’s involved. But this reeks of something dark and nasty. She’s paws deep - and there’s every chance that Thane, the copper-haired werewolf who stirs Kit’s heart, will become collateral damage.
Her house is full of cats, and her city is full of monsters ... fortunately, Kit McCafferty is one of them.
A Skirl of Sorcery is the third book in the captivating urban fantasy crime series The Cat Lady Chronicles. Expect mystery, adventure and a posse of cats.
When Kit offers a room to a powerless ban sith who has lost her magic, she sets off a chain reaction across Coldstream’s supernatural streets. Her neighbors are panicking. Dangerous werewolves are on the prowl. And Kit finds herself trying to solve several desperate problems all at once.
Kit knows the world’s a messy place, especially when magic’s involved. But this reeks of something dark and nasty. She’s paws deep - and there’s every chance that Thane, the copper-haired werewolf who stirs Kit’s heart, will become collateral damage.
Her house is full of cats, and her city is full of monsters ... fortunately, Kit McCafferty is one of them.
A Skirl of Sorcery is the third book in the captivating urban fantasy crime series The Cat Lady Chronicles. Expect mystery, adventure and a posse of cats.
274 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 13, 2025
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 135 reviews
October 27, 2025
Cute, but there just any chemistry between the two main characters of Kit and Thane- at all! And, the whole cat lady thing with Kit talking to and taking care of her cats was a bit overdone and got annoying. Overall, just kind of Meh.
January 18, 2026
Yay - Kit McCafferty cat-sith extraordinaire, ex-assassin in previous life, is BACK. I always enjoy returning to this world - despite it only has two books so far. This one is not different!
At first, Kit is roped into rooming a sick ban-sith (thanks to the "debt" she owes Mallory the squib) but as always it evolved into something more. Something evil is taking the ban-sith power and Keres (the ban-sith) will be dead if she doesn't get the magic back. Kit also realizes that Keres is NOT the only victim.
I enjoyed Kit's adventure - trying to figure out what happened and tried to tie it up to another case of thievery in Danksville. I enjoyed seeing the new side of Dave, her neighbor druid when taking care of Keres. I enjoyed Kit getting more baffled with the mysterious Trilby
And I ENJOYED that her relationship with Thane the lone wolf is moving forward (yay!). OOH, AND AND ...
The series is taking a break until mid 2026. URGH! I really want to know what Tiddles (that's the ginger cat that adopted Thane) choose as her own name. What is it? She Who is the Boss? She Who Tames a Wolf? WHAATT???
At first, Kit is roped into rooming a sick ban-sith (thanks to the "debt" she owes Mallory the squib) but as always it evolved into something more. Something evil is taking the ban-sith power and Keres (the ban-sith) will be dead if she doesn't get the magic back. Kit also realizes that Keres is NOT the only victim.
I enjoyed Kit's adventure - trying to figure out what happened and tried to tie it up to another case of thievery in Danksville. I enjoyed seeing the new side of Dave, her neighbor druid when taking care of Keres. I enjoyed Kit getting more baffled with the mysterious Trilby
And I ENJOYED that her relationship with Thane the lone wolf is moving forward (yay!). OOH, AND AND ...
The series is taking a break until mid 2026. URGH! I really want to know what Tiddles (that's the ginger cat that adopted Thane) choose as her own name. What is it? She Who is the Boss? She Who Tames a Wolf? WHAATT???
October 30, 2025
*Source* Kindle Unlimited
*Genre* Urban Fantasy
*Rating* 3.5-4
*Thoughts*
A Skirl of Sorcery is the third installment in author Helen Harper's The Cat Lady Chronicles. This novel continues the adventures of Kit McCafferty, a retired cat-sith assassin who's traded her deadly past for a quieter life in the quirky supernatural enclave of Coldstream. Kit somehow always finds a way to get into trouble, and this time around, trouble ends up living in her house thanks to a bargain she made with Mallory, a powerful witch.
*Full Review @ Gizmos Reviews*
https://gizmosreviews.blogspot.com/20...
*Genre* Urban Fantasy
*Rating* 3.5-4
*Thoughts*
A Skirl of Sorcery is the third installment in author Helen Harper's The Cat Lady Chronicles. This novel continues the adventures of Kit McCafferty, a retired cat-sith assassin who's traded her deadly past for a quieter life in the quirky supernatural enclave of Coldstream. Kit somehow always finds a way to get into trouble, and this time around, trouble ends up living in her house thanks to a bargain she made with Mallory, a powerful witch.
*Full Review @ Gizmos Reviews*
https://gizmosreviews.blogspot.com/20...
October 16, 2025
A fantastic book and great series await if urban fantasy thrillers and terrific characters are your jam.
Rating: 4.75⭐️
Helen Harper’s The Cat Lady Chronicles is an excellent series. A urban fantasy thriller based universe based around a female character, retired paranormal assassin with a secret. She’s a cat shifter, her species known as cat seths. Now she’s just known in her supernatural neighborhood as the retired cat lady, a single woman who gardens and occasionally lets out a room.
With each book , Harper continues to build a strong, intriguing character, whose presence has a profound influence on those around her. Each side character has a equally well written history of their own and complex personalities and ongoing struggles. This series has elements that are complicated, mythologically inclined, and layered with suspense and drama.
And cats and one demonic kitten. Whats not to love?
The mystery here is another involved case, the investigation into the various causes and circumstances puzzling and bizarre, and the outcome wildly satisfying. And will have ramifications for future cases, I expect.
Things I continue to really appreciate. That Harper is furthering Kit McCafferty’s journey as a content single retired complicated woman. She’s happily independent, living by herself, with her cats, and her lifestyle. And while she enjoys the occasional companionship of her lone wolf, neither of them wants more.
That’s perfectly fine. Thank you, Helen Harper. Not everyone needs a fated mate. Kit is a dangerous person. She often is the one to save Thane. And everyone else. And still enjoy her relationship with him. He’s got his own life and its interesting journey.
Nice to see this portrayed here.
It ends on an annoyingly funny note. Not a real cliffhanger but with an unanswered question nonetheless.
Til next year.
A fantastic book and great series await if urban fantasy thrillers and terrific characters are your jam.
Highly recommended.
Another great book and winner of a series. Check it out now.
Cover Design by Covers by Juan
The Cat Lady Chronicles (4 book series):
Waifs And Strays #1
The Dark Hiss of Magic #2
A Skirl of Sorcery #3
Night Maze #4 - May 29,2026
Rating: 4.75⭐️
Helen Harper’s The Cat Lady Chronicles is an excellent series. A urban fantasy thriller based universe based around a female character, retired paranormal assassin with a secret. She’s a cat shifter, her species known as cat seths. Now she’s just known in her supernatural neighborhood as the retired cat lady, a single woman who gardens and occasionally lets out a room.
With each book , Harper continues to build a strong, intriguing character, whose presence has a profound influence on those around her. Each side character has a equally well written history of their own and complex personalities and ongoing struggles. This series has elements that are complicated, mythologically inclined, and layered with suspense and drama.
And cats and one demonic kitten. Whats not to love?
The mystery here is another involved case, the investigation into the various causes and circumstances puzzling and bizarre, and the outcome wildly satisfying. And will have ramifications for future cases, I expect.
Things I continue to really appreciate. That Harper is furthering Kit McCafferty’s journey as a content single retired complicated woman. She’s happily independent, living by herself, with her cats, and her lifestyle. And while she enjoys the occasional companionship of her lone wolf, neither of them wants more.
That’s perfectly fine. Thank you, Helen Harper. Not everyone needs a fated mate. Kit is a dangerous person. She often is the one to save Thane. And everyone else. And still enjoy her relationship with him. He’s got his own life and its interesting journey.
Nice to see this portrayed here.
It ends on an annoyingly funny note. Not a real cliffhanger but with an unanswered question nonetheless.
Til next year.
A fantastic book and great series await if urban fantasy thrillers and terrific characters are your jam.
Highly recommended.
Another great book and winner of a series. Check it out now.
Cover Design by Covers by Juan
The Cat Lady Chronicles (4 book series):
Waifs And Strays #1
The Dark Hiss of Magic #2
A Skirl of Sorcery #3
Night Maze #4 - May 29,2026
November 17, 2025
I liked this one better than the previous one.
The mystery was really intriguing. Kit is called on the blood binding favour she made in the last book to Mallory. She has to allow a Banshee to rent her apartment.
The problem is Banshees have a bad rep amongst most people. People think they bring death. But as Kit repeatedly explains, everyone dies, the Banshees merely wail when someone is about to die. They have nothing to do with the death.
But this particular Banshee has lost her wail and that is where the mystery comes from. Also without it she will die because it is the magical essence of herself. Kit is on the clock as she tries to figure out who stole the magic and how to get it back. Oh, and yeah, Charis, the Banshee is not the only one this has happened to.
In good cozy mystery fashion we go down some false trails, meet new interesting people and Kit has a few side quests. And our favorite ex-assassin cat lady gets to show her claws a bit.
Her bae, Thane is by her side and they finally level up on their relationship. Now, I will be honest, I like Thane, but I am just not feeling him and Kit together. I don't read this for the romance, so it is fine. I actually thought Kit had a lot more chemistry with the MacTire pack alpha in the first book. But the author definitively put the kibosh on that possibility in the preceding book.
Speaking of the MacTire. I noticed that he was conveniently unavailable for Kit to speak to around the same time Mallory was unavailable to speak to.... hmmmm. I detected a little somethin' somethin' maybe when they were introduced in the last book.
But getting back to Thane. This book gives us a lot of background on Thane. We learn why he is a lone wolf and it is infuriating and sad. But he is developing a found family starting with Kit and Tiddles. And I hope their circle grows.
Speaking of Tiddles... I both crack up and despair that the book ended just before she revealed what her chosen name will be. Kit sounded shocked and now I am dying to know!
The mystery was really intriguing. Kit is called on the blood binding favour she made in the last book to Mallory. She has to allow a Banshee to rent her apartment.
The problem is Banshees have a bad rep amongst most people. People think they bring death. But as Kit repeatedly explains, everyone dies, the Banshees merely wail when someone is about to die. They have nothing to do with the death.
But this particular Banshee has lost her wail and that is where the mystery comes from. Also without it she will die because it is the magical essence of herself. Kit is on the clock as she tries to figure out who stole the magic and how to get it back. Oh, and yeah, Charis, the Banshee is not the only one this has happened to.
In good cozy mystery fashion we go down some false trails, meet new interesting people and Kit has a few side quests. And our favorite ex-assassin cat lady gets to show her claws a bit.
Her bae, Thane is by her side and they finally level up on their relationship. Now, I will be honest, I like Thane, but I am just not feeling him and Kit together. I don't read this for the romance, so it is fine. I actually thought Kit had a lot more chemistry with the MacTire pack alpha in the first book. But the author definitively put the kibosh on that possibility in the preceding book.
Speaking of the MacTire. I noticed that he was conveniently unavailable for Kit to speak to around the same time Mallory was unavailable to speak to.... hmmmm. I detected a little somethin' somethin' maybe when they were introduced in the last book.
But getting back to Thane. This book gives us a lot of background on Thane. We learn why he is a lone wolf and it is infuriating and sad. But he is developing a found family starting with Kit and Tiddles. And I hope their circle grows.
Speaking of Tiddles... I both crack up and despair that the book ended just before she revealed what her chosen name will be. Kit sounded shocked and now I am dying to know!
October 16, 2025
4.5 stars. Super fun tale within the cat chronicles. This time we get to see more of Kit’s assassin background playing into her new interest of solving peoples’ problems—and a slew of new preternaturals, all very interesting. The romance notches up too. Half a star off as it’s a little awkward in the character interactions (impersonal with the romantic tension, for example, though the wordless tension scene was steamy!) and the mannerisms of all characters seeming similar (impersonal not even sure what smacking lips in satisfaction means as an American haha). But overall a fun urban fantasy with a strong independent and quirky female sleuth. I’ll definitely read more.
March 31, 2026
DNF @ 12%/ 4 chapters
These are incredibly fast paced with little information given about any of the characters and relationship explanations and build up are pretty nonexistent. I really shouldn’t have picked this up, it I’m vacation and continuing a series sounded like a better idea than trying something new, until I realized I wasn’t actually enjoying the book.
Sadly, I think this author just doesn’t work for me.
These are incredibly fast paced with little information given about any of the characters and relationship explanations and build up are pretty nonexistent. I really shouldn’t have picked this up, it I’m vacation and continuing a series sounded like a better idea than trying something new, until I realized I wasn’t actually enjoying the book.
Sadly, I think this author just doesn’t work for me.
March 16, 2026
Great urban fantasy
Skirl has laugh-out-loud moments, darkness, violence, sorrow, evil, death, demon cats, prejudice, unexpected friendship, and a unique understanding of ban sith. In other words, Skirl is a fascinating, unique urban fantasy. Kit is an awesome narrator. The bit of a cliffhanger is evil.
Skirl has laugh-out-loud moments, darkness, violence, sorrow, evil, death, demon cats, prejudice, unexpected friendship, and a unique understanding of ban sith. In other words, Skirl is a fascinating, unique urban fantasy. Kit is an awesome narrator. The bit of a cliffhanger is evil.
June 8, 2026
I am very much on board with this series: a middle aged main character who gets to have a sexy romance AND her independence, cats that actually act like cats while being total badasses, and a growing cast of more or less magical neighbours, friends and adversaries. Will continue.
The narrator was part of why I started the series.
The narrator was part of why I started the series.
March 8, 2026
I knew this wouldn’t let me down and it certainly didn’t, this was so much fun!
1. Justice for Thane!!
2. I can’t believe we’re left off on a cliffhanger like this, what is Tiddles’s name??
3. One minus point though: I wish there would have been at least some kind of explanation as to why the magic thief did what he did, I find it a shame that he was just killed and that’s it. We don’t even know his motivation at all… Maybe that’ll progress in the next book, at least I really hope that it will be picked up again!
Edit: I just saw that the next book will be released in May😫 I thought all books were already out😫 I will wait for this, for as-of-now Tiddles🫡
1. Justice for Thane!!
2. I can’t believe we’re left off on a cliffhanger like this, what is Tiddles’s name??
3. One minus point though: I wish there would have been at least some kind of explanation as to why the magic thief did what he did, I find it a shame that he was just killed and that’s it. We don’t even know his motivation at all… Maybe that’ll progress in the next book, at least I really hope that it will be picked up again!
Edit: I just saw that the next book will be released in May😫 I thought all books were already out😫 I will wait for this, for as-of-now Tiddles🫡
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 13, 2025
The Purrfect Blend of Magic, Mystery, and Cozy Fun
"Noooooo!"- that was my first thought as I turned the final page of A Skirl of Sorcery. Not because I was disappointed, but because I didn’t want it to end.
This third book in The Cat Lady Chronicles is just as amazing as the first two, and I’m already dreaming of more adventures with Kit and her furry friends!
Helen Harper is back with another story full of mystery and intrigue, keeping me hooked from the very beginning. The plot is clever and full of twists, balancing suspense with the warm and funny moments that make this series so special. And the cats? As always, they’re a delight - their antics add charm, comedy, and a surprising amount of personality to the story.
What I love most about this book is the tone. It’s urban fantasy without the heavy drama - funny, cosy, and super easy to read. The pacing is smooth, the atmosphere inviting, and the magic feels both imaginative and effortless. Kit is still shining as a heroine: relatable, witty, and resilient in ways that make her easy to root for.
A Skirl of Sorcery is the perfect mix of cosy fantasy comfort and magical mystery. It’s the kind of book that makes you laugh, smile, and sink happily into its world - and then leaves you wishing the next one was already here. A truly delightful read!
"Noooooo!"- that was my first thought as I turned the final page of A Skirl of Sorcery. Not because I was disappointed, but because I didn’t want it to end.
This third book in The Cat Lady Chronicles is just as amazing as the first two, and I’m already dreaming of more adventures with Kit and her furry friends!
Helen Harper is back with another story full of mystery and intrigue, keeping me hooked from the very beginning. The plot is clever and full of twists, balancing suspense with the warm and funny moments that make this series so special. And the cats? As always, they’re a delight - their antics add charm, comedy, and a surprising amount of personality to the story.
What I love most about this book is the tone. It’s urban fantasy without the heavy drama - funny, cosy, and super easy to read. The pacing is smooth, the atmosphere inviting, and the magic feels both imaginative and effortless. Kit is still shining as a heroine: relatable, witty, and resilient in ways that make her easy to root for.
A Skirl of Sorcery is the perfect mix of cosy fantasy comfort and magical mystery. It’s the kind of book that makes you laugh, smile, and sink happily into its world - and then leaves you wishing the next one was already here. A truly delightful read!
August 4, 2026
Kit McCafferty hat in den vergangenen Bänden bereits bewiesen, dass sie ein erstaunliches Talent dafür besitzt, sich in fremde Probleme einzumischen. Diesmal wird ihr das Problem jedoch direkt ins Haus geliefert. Mallory möchte den Gefallen einlösen, den Kit ihr schuldet, und bittet sie, der Banshee Keres vorübergehend ihre freie Wohnung zu überlassen. Keres wurde von ihrer eigenen Gemeinschaft verstoßen und hat ihre magischen Kräfte verloren. Während Kits Nachbarn bereits den nahenden Tod in der Straße vermuten, stellt sich schnell heraus, dass Keres tatsächlich in großer Gefahr schwebt.
Kit ist von ihrer neuen Mitbewohnerin zunächst ebenfalls wenig begeistert, lässt sich jedoch nicht davon abhalten, für sie einzustehen. Keres ist ihr Gast, und wer sie schlecht behandelt, bekommt es mit Kit zu tun. Dass selbst ihre Katzen ungewöhnlich aggressiv auf die Banshee reagieren, macht die Lage allerdings nicht gerade beruhigender. In Katzengestalt erkennt Kit schließlich, dass Keres von etwas Dunklem befallen wurde und ohne Hilfe sterben wird. Also beginnt erneut eine Ermittlung, bei der Kit nicht nur gestohlener Magie nachspürt, sondern nebenbei auch noch Trows vor einem gierigen Verpächter rettet, nachts in einen Dryadenhain einbricht und versucht, nicht von einem Rudel Werwölfe gefressen zu werden. Ein gewöhnlicher Alltag im Ruhestand sieht vermutlich anders aus.
Besonders gefallen hat mir erneut, wie Helen Harper scheinbar unbedeutende Details später wieder aufgreift. Der kleine Trow, den Kit zu Beginn bei einem Einbruch erwischt, wirkt zunächst wie eine humorvolle Randfigur. Später verbindet seine Geschichte jedoch mehrere Handlungsstränge miteinander. Auch Mallory und Fergus aus den vorherigen Bänden kehren sinnvoll zurück und erhalten eine tatsächliche Funktion innerhalb der Handlung. Dadurch wirkt Coldstream nicht wie eine Ansammlung wechselnder Nebenfiguren, sondern wie eine lebendige Gemeinschaft, in der frühere Begegnungen weiterhin Bedeutung besitzen.
Der Fall selbst hat mich diesmal von Anfang an gepackt. Die einzelnen Hinweise führen Kit von gestohlener Magie über ein Kästchen aus Knochen bis zu einem weiteren Opfer, dessen Schicksal eng mit Thanes Vergangenheit verbunden ist. Wieder stellt man sich während des Lesens die Frage, wie all diese Ereignisse zusammenpassen sollen. Die Auflösung wirkt am Ende jedoch logisch und gut vorbereitet. Helen Harper verlässt sich nicht darauf, dass zwei Handlungsstränge plötzlich zusammengehören, weil das Drehbuch gerade beschlossen hat, dass heute eben Dienstag ist.
Auch zwischen Kit und Thane geht es endlich deutlich vorwärts. Aus der vorsichtigen Annäherung der ersten beiden Bände wird eine körperliche und exklusive Beziehung. Trotzdem rückt die Romance nie in den Mittelpunkt und verdrängt auch nicht den Kriminalfall. Die beiden versuchen vielmehr, miteinander eine Beziehung zu führen, ohne sich selbst darin zu verlieren. Sowohl Kit als auch Thane waren jahrzehntelang Einzelgänger und möchten ihre Unabhängigkeit behalten. Dass Thane nach einem riskanten Plan gezwungen ist umzuziehen und sich daraufhin einfach eine neue Wohnung in Kits Nähe sucht, passt deshalb perfekt zu ihnen. Nähe ja, gemeinsamer Zahnbürstenbecher noch nicht zwingend.
Ihr Umgang miteinander ist herrlich pragmatisch. Kit informiert Thane beinahe beiläufig darüber, dass sie seine Adresse an sein ehemaliges Rudel verraten muss, und er nimmt es erstaunlich gelassen. Immerhin zieht er ohnehin häufig um und war mit dem Spiegel an seiner Schlafzimmerdecke nie besonders glücklich. Statt künstlichem Beziehungsdrama bekommen wir zwei erwachsene Menschen mit ähnlichen Vorstellungen von Moral, Freiheit und der gelegentlichen Notwendigkeit eines Einbruchs.
Am Ende deutet sich außerdem an, dass Kit ihre Ermittlungen künftig gern etwas offizieller betreiben würde. Sie fragt bei der magischen Polizei nach einer möglichen Ausbildung und scheint damit langsam eine neue Aufgabe für sich zu entdecken. Ihre Fähigkeiten als ehemalige Assassinin bleiben zwar weiterhin äußerst nützlich, doch sie beginnt, daraus etwas Eigenes zu machen, das besser zu ihrem heutigen Leben passt.
Und dann endet das Buch mit dem wohl grausamsten Cliffhanger der bisherigen Reihe: Thanes Katze hat sich endlich für einen richtigen Namen entschieden, aber der Leser erfährt ihn noch nicht. Natürlich musste ich deshalb sofort zu Band vier greifen. Einen ungelösten Mordfall hätte ich vielleicht noch ausgehalten. Eine unbeantwortete Katzennamensfrage offenbar nicht.
Für mich ist Das leise Wispern der Zauberei bisher der stärkste Band der Reihe. Der Fall fesselte mich von Beginn an, die verschiedenen Handlungsstränge wurden geschickt verbunden und die Mischung aus Mystery, Humor und dezenter Romance funktionierte hervorragend.
Kit ist von ihrer neuen Mitbewohnerin zunächst ebenfalls wenig begeistert, lässt sich jedoch nicht davon abhalten, für sie einzustehen. Keres ist ihr Gast, und wer sie schlecht behandelt, bekommt es mit Kit zu tun. Dass selbst ihre Katzen ungewöhnlich aggressiv auf die Banshee reagieren, macht die Lage allerdings nicht gerade beruhigender. In Katzengestalt erkennt Kit schließlich, dass Keres von etwas Dunklem befallen wurde und ohne Hilfe sterben wird. Also beginnt erneut eine Ermittlung, bei der Kit nicht nur gestohlener Magie nachspürt, sondern nebenbei auch noch Trows vor einem gierigen Verpächter rettet, nachts in einen Dryadenhain einbricht und versucht, nicht von einem Rudel Werwölfe gefressen zu werden. Ein gewöhnlicher Alltag im Ruhestand sieht vermutlich anders aus.
Besonders gefallen hat mir erneut, wie Helen Harper scheinbar unbedeutende Details später wieder aufgreift. Der kleine Trow, den Kit zu Beginn bei einem Einbruch erwischt, wirkt zunächst wie eine humorvolle Randfigur. Später verbindet seine Geschichte jedoch mehrere Handlungsstränge miteinander. Auch Mallory und Fergus aus den vorherigen Bänden kehren sinnvoll zurück und erhalten eine tatsächliche Funktion innerhalb der Handlung. Dadurch wirkt Coldstream nicht wie eine Ansammlung wechselnder Nebenfiguren, sondern wie eine lebendige Gemeinschaft, in der frühere Begegnungen weiterhin Bedeutung besitzen.
Der Fall selbst hat mich diesmal von Anfang an gepackt. Die einzelnen Hinweise führen Kit von gestohlener Magie über ein Kästchen aus Knochen bis zu einem weiteren Opfer, dessen Schicksal eng mit Thanes Vergangenheit verbunden ist. Wieder stellt man sich während des Lesens die Frage, wie all diese Ereignisse zusammenpassen sollen. Die Auflösung wirkt am Ende jedoch logisch und gut vorbereitet. Helen Harper verlässt sich nicht darauf, dass zwei Handlungsstränge plötzlich zusammengehören, weil das Drehbuch gerade beschlossen hat, dass heute eben Dienstag ist.
Auch zwischen Kit und Thane geht es endlich deutlich vorwärts. Aus der vorsichtigen Annäherung der ersten beiden Bände wird eine körperliche und exklusive Beziehung. Trotzdem rückt die Romance nie in den Mittelpunkt und verdrängt auch nicht den Kriminalfall. Die beiden versuchen vielmehr, miteinander eine Beziehung zu führen, ohne sich selbst darin zu verlieren. Sowohl Kit als auch Thane waren jahrzehntelang Einzelgänger und möchten ihre Unabhängigkeit behalten. Dass Thane nach einem riskanten Plan gezwungen ist umzuziehen und sich daraufhin einfach eine neue Wohnung in Kits Nähe sucht, passt deshalb perfekt zu ihnen. Nähe ja, gemeinsamer Zahnbürstenbecher noch nicht zwingend.
Ihr Umgang miteinander ist herrlich pragmatisch. Kit informiert Thane beinahe beiläufig darüber, dass sie seine Adresse an sein ehemaliges Rudel verraten muss, und er nimmt es erstaunlich gelassen. Immerhin zieht er ohnehin häufig um und war mit dem Spiegel an seiner Schlafzimmerdecke nie besonders glücklich. Statt künstlichem Beziehungsdrama bekommen wir zwei erwachsene Menschen mit ähnlichen Vorstellungen von Moral, Freiheit und der gelegentlichen Notwendigkeit eines Einbruchs.
Am Ende deutet sich außerdem an, dass Kit ihre Ermittlungen künftig gern etwas offizieller betreiben würde. Sie fragt bei der magischen Polizei nach einer möglichen Ausbildung und scheint damit langsam eine neue Aufgabe für sich zu entdecken. Ihre Fähigkeiten als ehemalige Assassinin bleiben zwar weiterhin äußerst nützlich, doch sie beginnt, daraus etwas Eigenes zu machen, das besser zu ihrem heutigen Leben passt.
Und dann endet das Buch mit dem wohl grausamsten Cliffhanger der bisherigen Reihe: Thanes Katze hat sich endlich für einen richtigen Namen entschieden, aber der Leser erfährt ihn noch nicht. Natürlich musste ich deshalb sofort zu Band vier greifen. Einen ungelösten Mordfall hätte ich vielleicht noch ausgehalten. Eine unbeantwortete Katzennamensfrage offenbar nicht.
Für mich ist Das leise Wispern der Zauberei bisher der stärkste Band der Reihe. Der Fall fesselte mich von Beginn an, die verschiedenen Handlungsstränge wurden geschickt verbunden und die Mischung aus Mystery, Humor und dezenter Romance funktionierte hervorragend.
October 6, 2025
I loved this latest installment in this series from one of my favourite authors. Kit McCafferty is a great heroine and her clowder of kitties was just brilliant in this one.
Kit is asked to repay a favour which involves providing a place to stay for a ban sith. Ban siths don't have a glowing reputation as their mere presence indicates death, but this ban sith, Keres, is not quite right to put it bluntly. She has lost her powers, her voice and can no longer signal the coming deaths. When Keres starts to become incredibly ill, Kit sets off on a mission to find whoever stole Keres' magic and to find a way to return it.
During her investigation alongside Thane Barrow, a lone werewolf, they discover more people have been affected in similar ways and they have to race against the clock to track down the magic thief before it becomes too late for Keres and any of the others who have been attacked. Will they be able to find them in time and will Keres manage to get her magic back? With some new allies on side, they are determined to try that's for sure.
Kit and Thane made a great team this time and I was glad to see their relationship moving forward as well. I also loved how the cats stepped in to help as much as they could when Thane couldn't. Tiddles was a great cat - a lot bossier than I expected considering her age! I loved how Keres dealt with Thane's mother as well and the secret that she managed to get her to reveal. At least now Thane has some closure!
This book was such a fun read with lots of surprising twists and turns. There is one part that really shocked me and made me cry out loud. I thought the worst at that point, but like all great authors, Helen managed to save me from my negative thoughts!
I received an ARC copy of this book from the author, but this review is my own honest one. If you haven't started this series yet, then head back to book 1 - you will not be disappointed.
Kit is asked to repay a favour which involves providing a place to stay for a ban sith. Ban siths don't have a glowing reputation as their mere presence indicates death, but this ban sith, Keres, is not quite right to put it bluntly. She has lost her powers, her voice and can no longer signal the coming deaths. When Keres starts to become incredibly ill, Kit sets off on a mission to find whoever stole Keres' magic and to find a way to return it.
During her investigation alongside Thane Barrow, a lone werewolf, they discover more people have been affected in similar ways and they have to race against the clock to track down the magic thief before it becomes too late for Keres and any of the others who have been attacked. Will they be able to find them in time and will Keres manage to get her magic back? With some new allies on side, they are determined to try that's for sure.
Kit and Thane made a great team this time and I was glad to see their relationship moving forward as well. I also loved how the cats stepped in to help as much as they could when Thane couldn't. Tiddles was a great cat - a lot bossier than I expected considering her age! I loved how Keres dealt with Thane's mother as well and the secret that she managed to get her to reveal. At least now Thane has some closure!
This book was such a fun read with lots of surprising twists and turns. There is one part that really shocked me and made me cry out loud. I thought the worst at that point, but like all great authors, Helen managed to save me from my negative thoughts!
I received an ARC copy of this book from the author, but this review is my own honest one. If you haven't started this series yet, then head back to book 1 - you will not be disappointed.
October 13, 2025
*Helen sent me an early copy*
CW: abusive family members, some deaths
Kit McCafferty is back! And this time she is investigating... death? Well, how a ban sith (aka a herald of death) has lost her voice and powers. Housing the ban sith was supposed to be an easy repayment of a favour to Mallory but, of course, once Kit sticks her nose in (human or kitten) she just won't stop until the case is solved. To make matters worse, there are a series of thefts happening around Coldstream plus the ever-persistent mystery on who Trilby is (other than excellent). Can Kit figure out why supernaturals are losing their powers or will she end up without her powers too?
***
I love this series so much! Kit is wonderful and all of her accomplices are wonderful and deserve their own books (yes I do just mean the cats). The first book in this series is one of the most unique shifter books I have ever read and I bullied many other people into reading it. I really enjoyed seeing more of Kit's backstory in this book as well as her traumatising everyone she meets. Really, the only thing in this book that isn't ~perfect~ is Thane. He just feels like a puzzle piece that doesn't quite fit. Kit has so much chemistry (no matter the type) with everyone she meets and Thane doesn't seem to be able to get to her level. The story is still top-notch but Thane is just a bit more angsty than he is interesting.
CW: abusive family members, some deaths
Kit McCafferty is back! And this time she is investigating... death? Well, how a ban sith (aka a herald of death) has lost her voice and powers. Housing the ban sith was supposed to be an easy repayment of a favour to Mallory but, of course, once Kit sticks her nose in (human or kitten) she just won't stop until the case is solved. To make matters worse, there are a series of thefts happening around Coldstream plus the ever-persistent mystery on who Trilby is (other than excellent). Can Kit figure out why supernaturals are losing their powers or will she end up without her powers too?
***
I love this series so much! Kit is wonderful and all of her accomplices are wonderful and deserve their own books (yes I do just mean the cats). The first book in this series is one of the most unique shifter books I have ever read and I bullied many other people into reading it. I really enjoyed seeing more of Kit's backstory in this book as well as her traumatising everyone she meets. Really, the only thing in this book that isn't ~perfect~ is Thane. He just feels like a puzzle piece that doesn't quite fit. Kit has so much chemistry (no matter the type) with everyone she meets and Thane doesn't seem to be able to get to her level. The story is still top-notch but Thane is just a bit more angsty than he is interesting.
October 5, 2025
This series is continuing to be one of Helen Harper's best as Kit is just a highly likeable character with a core of steel. I quickly found myself immersed in the Coldstream world as the pages turned.
Book three finds Kit solidifying her need to support and help those in her community when she finds herself play host to a ban sith who has lost her magic. Very quickly Kit discovers that this is no unusual occurrence as others in the magical community have also had their magic torn from them living them unwell, with the potential to perhaps die. Her need to solve the situation only heightens when her love interest, Thane, finds himself in a world of trouble as well.
There is something very engaging about this character's world and I have become very fond of Kit's neighbour Dave who really steps up in this story as we learn a little more about him. The cats continue to be a highlight and Tiddles definitely shows she is a one man cat coming to Thane's aid. I honestly am excited to read more stories set in the Coldstream universe - I believe they are coming and not just involving Kit. Helen writes great fantasy stories and this one does not disappoint.
Book three finds Kit solidifying her need to support and help those in her community when she finds herself play host to a ban sith who has lost her magic. Very quickly Kit discovers that this is no unusual occurrence as others in the magical community have also had their magic torn from them living them unwell, with the potential to perhaps die. Her need to solve the situation only heightens when her love interest, Thane, finds himself in a world of trouble as well.
There is something very engaging about this character's world and I have become very fond of Kit's neighbour Dave who really steps up in this story as we learn a little more about him. The cats continue to be a highlight and Tiddles definitely shows she is a one man cat coming to Thane's aid. I honestly am excited to read more stories set in the Coldstream universe - I believe they are coming and not just involving Kit. Helen writes great fantasy stories and this one does not disappoint.
November 15, 2025
Mallory has called in her favour – Kit lets a ban sith, Keres, who has lost her powers to stay in the spare apartment in her building.
Of course, Kit has to get involved in finding out what happened as Keres isn’t the only one whose powers have been stolen. There are also some robberies occurring and no one knows whether they are connected.
Looking into these problems leads to where the trows have a home, it also leads to the Barrow werewolves who have some members without powers.
This book has a little action, a mystery, surprises, suspense, humour and romance.
The characters are interesting and the interactions are great.
The cats are heavily involved especially Tiddles, who is very much a teenager and very defensive of Thane.
I do have a couple of complaints though, the next book isn’t out for a few months and I need to know what name Tiddles finally chose.
Helen Harper writes great books.
I will definitely recommend these.
Of course, Kit has to get involved in finding out what happened as Keres isn’t the only one whose powers have been stolen. There are also some robberies occurring and no one knows whether they are connected.
Looking into these problems leads to where the trows have a home, it also leads to the Barrow werewolves who have some members without powers.
This book has a little action, a mystery, surprises, suspense, humour and romance.
The characters are interesting and the interactions are great.
The cats are heavily involved especially Tiddles, who is very much a teenager and very defensive of Thane.
I do have a couple of complaints though, the next book isn’t out for a few months and I need to know what name Tiddles finally chose.
Helen Harper writes great books.
I will definitely recommend these.
April 22, 2026
4 Stars
A Skirl of Sorcery is the third book in The Cat Lady Chronicles by Helen Harper --- this series is a purr-fect blend of cozy mystery, urban fantasy, and sharp wit. We follow Kit McCafferty - a seemingly ordinary 'cat lady' with a knack for stumbling into danger – which results in a series that delivers quirky charm, clever twists, and just enough magical intrigue to keep me well and truly hooked.
It’s not just about cats (though the feline moments are fun) - it’s about resilience, reinvention, and the quiet power of underestimated people. Ms. Harper’s dialogue crackles, the pacing never drags, and the small-town-meets-supernatural setting feels both whimsical and ‘lived-in’.
I would recommend this to anyone who loves their mysteries with a dash of magic and a FMC who’s far more formidable than she first appears, as this series will have you reading late into the night – with a cat curled up beside you, of course 😊
Happy Reading…
A Skirl of Sorcery is the third book in The Cat Lady Chronicles by Helen Harper --- this series is a purr-fect blend of cozy mystery, urban fantasy, and sharp wit. We follow Kit McCafferty - a seemingly ordinary 'cat lady' with a knack for stumbling into danger – which results in a series that delivers quirky charm, clever twists, and just enough magical intrigue to keep me well and truly hooked.
It’s not just about cats (though the feline moments are fun) - it’s about resilience, reinvention, and the quiet power of underestimated people. Ms. Harper’s dialogue crackles, the pacing never drags, and the small-town-meets-supernatural setting feels both whimsical and ‘lived-in’.
I would recommend this to anyone who loves their mysteries with a dash of magic and a FMC who’s far more formidable than she first appears, as this series will have you reading late into the night – with a cat curled up beside you, of course 😊
Happy Reading…
October 6, 2025
I got this as an ARC copy.
The story is as ever highly entertaining and fun, Kit has a boyfriend, they are both stubborn and independent, but until now have not actually managed to get in bed together, with all that happens, Kit was about to share his body when things go down and they get sidetracked. It's a very fun adventure that doesn't go down quite the way you expect, which for me is great. Often I can predict what will happen, but here it doesn't happen quite the way you think it will. Helen Harper is good at writing stories that are delightful and also not as easy to predict.
So Kit is making up her mind that Thane should be a boyfriend and to sleep with him, when a favour is called in, cue mayhem and one cat-sith ex-assassin who needs to sort it out.
It's a fun story, interesting and really keeps the attention.
The story is as ever highly entertaining and fun, Kit has a boyfriend, they are both stubborn and independent, but until now have not actually managed to get in bed together, with all that happens, Kit was about to share his body when things go down and they get sidetracked. It's a very fun adventure that doesn't go down quite the way you expect, which for me is great. Often I can predict what will happen, but here it doesn't happen quite the way you think it will. Helen Harper is good at writing stories that are delightful and also not as easy to predict.
So Kit is making up her mind that Thane should be a boyfriend and to sleep with him, when a favour is called in, cue mayhem and one cat-sith ex-assassin who needs to sort it out.
It's a fun story, interesting and really keeps the attention.
October 7, 2025
This is most certainly a purrfect five-star read. This is number three in the Cat Lady Chronicles and they each add extra depth and just makes you fall so much harder for the characters. I must say I was so happy to see Tiddles finally become a big girl cat, she will be holding her own alongside she who loves sunbeams in the next story, I’m sure. I will say that I loved how this story showed us how we can perceive those we may see as different, and how just walking in their shoes allows us to see their perspective. That was beautifully done, and something I hope will make many read and pause to contemplate. There is just something special about this series, and I think its because of Kit herself, there is just something about her, the way she interacts with her cats will make your heart sing.
July 9, 2026
This installment was better than the last one, but this one still had a couple of flaws. Like other reviewers, I was disappointed by the lack of chemistry between Thane and Kit. There was the start of some pretty great chemistry in the first book but by this book, there was basically none. They talk back and forth with "sexy talk" but it feels really forced and not natural.
I still like Kit and Thane as characters, but they just don't seem to fit together that well as partners. The story for this one was much better than the last one. The plot was directly related to the magical world and didn't feel like the author forcing a plot to happen, like book 2. We get to learn more about the people living in Coldstream, Trows and Ban Siths.
Overall 3/5 stars, better than the last but still not as good as the first book.
I still like Kit and Thane as characters, but they just don't seem to fit together that well as partners. The story for this one was much better than the last one. The plot was directly related to the magical world and didn't feel like the author forcing a plot to happen, like book 2. We get to learn more about the people living in Coldstream, Trows and Ban Siths.
Overall 3/5 stars, better than the last but still not as good as the first book.
March 10, 2026
Another solid addition to the series. I like that each book stands on its own. Kit and Thane’s relationship is finally evolving into something more and we continue to learn more about the different residents of Coldstream.
This book deals with Keres a ban sith that has lost her magic. Kit is quickly embroiled in discovering who is behind these mysterious attacks. The path of discovery is as windy as previous books. We also learn more about the events leading to Thane’s life as a lone wolf.
The cats continue to charm and Kit’s life as a cat lady continues to be busier than expected. Looking forward to the next book and in the meantime, I plan on checking out Squib and learning more about Mallory!
This book deals with Keres a ban sith that has lost her magic. Kit is quickly embroiled in discovering who is behind these mysterious attacks. The path of discovery is as windy as previous books. We also learn more about the events leading to Thane’s life as a lone wolf.
The cats continue to charm and Kit’s life as a cat lady continues to be busier than expected. Looking forward to the next book and in the meantime, I plan on checking out Squib and learning more about Mallory!
July 20, 2026
Good
When a favour owed by Kit is called in, she finds herself housing a Ban Sith who is more than a little unwell.
In the course of her inquiries into what happened, Kit discovers links to a certain wolf family, and it’s not long before secrets are being revealed.
This book sees Kit getting closer to Thane (all romance is off page), and making some interesting new friends. There are one or two interesting new developments too.
This is a complete story in itself, but it is set within the Cat Lady Chronicles world, and really needs to be read as part of that if only for the world building part of it.
It’s a quick, enjoyable story, set in an intriguing and entertaining world.
Recommended for urban fantasy lovers.
When a favour owed by Kit is called in, she finds herself housing a Ban Sith who is more than a little unwell.
In the course of her inquiries into what happened, Kit discovers links to a certain wolf family, and it’s not long before secrets are being revealed.
This book sees Kit getting closer to Thane (all romance is off page), and making some interesting new friends. There are one or two interesting new developments too.
This is a complete story in itself, but it is set within the Cat Lady Chronicles world, and really needs to be read as part of that if only for the world building part of it.
It’s a quick, enjoyable story, set in an intriguing and entertaining world.
Recommended for urban fantasy lovers.
September 29, 2025
Soooo much going on in Cat Lady 3! All our favourite furry friends are back and Tiddles is showing them all how to really whip their owner into shape! We have a couple of different twisty storylines on the go in this book with a sneaky thief preying on Kit's neighbours, a dark sickness stealing away magic indiscriminately across the magical residents. The ongoing attraction between Kit and our lone wolf heats up and we meet some new species that we haven't come across before like Trows and Ban Sith. This was jam packed and very enjoyable however the cliffhanger at the end Helen was cruel and unusual punishment!!
October 17, 2025
I absolutely love this series. I was so excited that Thane & Kit finally finally got together. Kit is someone I would be so excited to be friends with. Her honest view of the world and her ability to understand right from wrong. This book was full of everything I love in books. Actions, awesome characters, whinny scary bad guys. So, if you have not started this series run don't walk to grab your copy. Definitely start with book 1. I will be rereading this series; because I need to occupy my time while I wait for the big revile of Tiddles chosen name. Not nice Helen Harper ending on that little tidbit.
November 5, 2025
Absolutely Floored!
This book had me on the edge of my seat for the last half like no other has before. I usually love these books because they are funny, light-hearted, good reads. But this one was so much more! At this point these characters are as familiar to me as some of my closest friends. That is the mark of a truly great author. But in this book I was absolutely taken by surprise and then that cliffhanger at the end! What are you doing to me Helen!?!! It's going to drive me crazy now! And I cannot even begin to say how much I am looking forward to Squib! I so did not see that coming but I am so looking forward to it! GENIUS!
This book had me on the edge of my seat for the last half like no other has before. I usually love these books because they are funny, light-hearted, good reads. But this one was so much more! At this point these characters are as familiar to me as some of my closest friends. That is the mark of a truly great author. But in this book I was absolutely taken by surprise and then that cliffhanger at the end! What are you doing to me Helen!?!! It's going to drive me crazy now! And I cannot even begin to say how much I am looking forward to Squib! I so did not see that coming but I am so looking forward to it! GENIUS!
January 4, 2026
Cat ladies rule!
I absolutely love morally, let's say, flexible characters. Kit definitely has her own moral compass and has decided to keep it pointing toward good. In this installment, Kit found herself helping an unlikely ally in death. In helping her, Kit finds herself investigating and following leads that she needs some help with, so Thane jumps into the mix. These two really sizzle in their relationship of being independent, yet connected to each other. When Kit found herself in mortal danger, she trusted him to help. When Thane found himself in the same danger, Kit didn't hesitate to save him.
I absolutely love morally, let's say, flexible characters. Kit definitely has her own moral compass and has decided to keep it pointing toward good. In this installment, Kit found herself helping an unlikely ally in death. In helping her, Kit finds herself investigating and following leads that she needs some help with, so Thane jumps into the mix. These two really sizzle in their relationship of being independent, yet connected to each other. When Kit found herself in mortal danger, she trusted him to help. When Thane found himself in the same danger, Kit didn't hesitate to save him.
March 27, 2026
A delightful maze of twists and turns
Just when you finally think She Who Is the Cat Lady and He Who Is the Lone Wolf are finally — FINALLY — going to get together, the author yells “psych!” and we’re off on another adventure. Talk about a tease!
But in the meantime, Kit and Thane have their hands full with the mystery of the missing ban sith magic, a cat burglar hitting the neighbors, and bigots protesting Kit’s new tenant. Also, Kit’s neighbor Dave has a surprising secret that I truly didn’t see coming.
And be prepared for a big ole cliffhanger because the teasing never ends. Is it May 2026 yet?
Just when you finally think She Who Is the Cat Lady and He Who Is the Lone Wolf are finally — FINALLY — going to get together, the author yells “psych!” and we’re off on another adventure. Talk about a tease!
But in the meantime, Kit and Thane have their hands full with the mystery of the missing ban sith magic, a cat burglar hitting the neighbors, and bigots protesting Kit’s new tenant. Also, Kit’s neighbor Dave has a surprising secret that I truly didn’t see coming.
And be prepared for a big ole cliffhanger because the teasing never ends. Is it May 2026 yet?
June 11, 2026
Kit has a full life as a cat sith and local cat lady and enjoys companionship with Thane, but life has a way of turning unexpectedly.
So when a business acquaintance calls in a contract and Kit has to house another magical, Kit agrees to do so, fulfilling the agreement.
Doing so sets off a chain of events that is unprecedented in Kit’s life as well as the community. A villain is revealed, who is stealing magic souls from their town, and Kit and Thane and Kit’s clowder of cats band together to help.
Not only are there caboodles of kits, but Dave, Kit’s neighbor even helps out, along with an assortment of fascinating of unusual and intriguing characters full of vibrant personality and expression.
When the villain is revealed it is a satisfying end and an absolutely worthwhile read
So when a business acquaintance calls in a contract and Kit has to house another magical, Kit agrees to do so, fulfilling the agreement.
Doing so sets off a chain of events that is unprecedented in Kit’s life as well as the community. A villain is revealed, who is stealing magic souls from their town, and Kit and Thane and Kit’s clowder of cats band together to help.
Not only are there caboodles of kits, but Dave, Kit’s neighbor even helps out, along with an assortment of fascinating of unusual and intriguing characters full of vibrant personality and expression.
When the villain is revealed it is a satisfying end and an absolutely worthwhile read
October 15, 2025
Everyone’s favourite cat lady
This series is something very different from any I’ve read before. Kit is the kind of woman that we are all are in differing ways - stronger than she seems, with hidden depths. It’s just that her hidden depths are a little more unusual…
The slow burn romance with Thane continues to build. Trilby still intrigues, Dave from next door plays an important role and Kit saves the day, as you would expect. Naturally, the cats are the real stars of the story ;)
This series is something very different from any I’ve read before. Kit is the kind of woman that we are all are in differing ways - stronger than she seems, with hidden depths. It’s just that her hidden depths are a little more unusual…
The slow burn romance with Thane continues to build. Trilby still intrigues, Dave from next door plays an important role and Kit saves the day, as you would expect. Naturally, the cats are the real stars of the story ;)
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