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Dr. Bannerman Vet Mystery #4
Three Bengal Kittens
With his sniffer dog, Pippin, Dr. Peter Bannerman uncovers suspects, treats animals, tracks a kitten kidnapper, and must solve a locked-room mystery.<?b>
In the fourth book in the series, Dr. Peter Bannerman’s brother Sam takes in three Bengal kittens after the previous owner, his neighbor in a Winnipeg north end apartment building, is found dead. The death was originally thought to be due to accidental autoerotic asphyxiation, but after investigation, Sam is arrested and charged with his neighbor’s murder.
Sam suffers from several mental health conditions, but Peter refuses to believe that he is capable of killing someone, so he sets out to prove his innocence. Sam, however, is more concerned about one of the kittens who has gone missing. With the help of his talented sniffer dog, Pippin, Peter tries to find the kitten, as well as evidence that someone else murdered the neighbor.
Peter talks to the other people in Sam’s building, and several appear to be plausible alternative killers. However, by that time Sam, still in custody, begins to rave about ghosts being the real murderers and insists Peter investigate that. Despite not believing in ghosts (not in the slightest), he has a terrifying experience while spending the night in Sam’s apartment.
The situation rapidly spirals, putting Peter and Pippin in peril and ultimately revealing a story of revenge served cold from decades ago and continents away.
In the fourth book in the series, Dr. Peter Bannerman’s brother Sam takes in three Bengal kittens after the previous owner, his neighbor in a Winnipeg north end apartment building, is found dead. The death was originally thought to be due to accidental autoerotic asphyxiation, but after investigation, Sam is arrested and charged with his neighbor’s murder.
Sam suffers from several mental health conditions, but Peter refuses to believe that he is capable of killing someone, so he sets out to prove his innocence. Sam, however, is more concerned about one of the kittens who has gone missing. With the help of his talented sniffer dog, Pippin, Peter tries to find the kitten, as well as evidence that someone else murdered the neighbor.
Peter talks to the other people in Sam’s building, and several appear to be plausible alternative killers. However, by that time Sam, still in custody, begins to rave about ghosts being the real murderers and insists Peter investigate that. Despite not believing in ghosts (not in the slightest), he has a terrifying experience while spending the night in Sam’s apartment.
The situation rapidly spirals, putting Peter and Pippin in peril and ultimately revealing a story of revenge served cold from decades ago and continents away.
256 pages, Paperback
Published April 14, 2026
About the author
Philipp Schott
11 books158 followersPhilipp was born in Germany in 1965. A year later his family emigrated to Canada. Philipp grew up in Saskatoon, regularly returning to Germany to visit. He studied biology the University of Saskatchewan before switching to veterinary medicine. After graduation he moved to Winnipeg with his classmate and future wife, Lorraine. Except for a year taken to backpack around the world, Philipp has been in the same Winnipeg small animal practice since 1990.
His writing began with a travel blog and then a veterinary blog. His first book, "The Accidental Veterinarian", a collection of non-fiction stories from his practice, was published by ECW Press in 2019. It became a Canadian bestseller and was translated into five languages. "The Willow Wren" (ECW Press 2021) is his first novel. "How To Examine a Wolverine", a sequel to "The Accidental Veterinarian" was published in 2021, and the second sequel, "The Battle Cry of the Siamese Kitten" came out in 2023.
Philipp has also been writing cozy-ish mysteries featuring Dr. Peter Bannerman, veterinarian and amateur detective, ! So far there has been "Fifty-Four Pigs" (2022), "Six Ostriches" (2023), and "Eleven Huskies" (2024). "Three Bengal Kittens" should be out soon...
He and Lorraine live in a creaky old house on the river with two children and several pets. Although the clinic, writing, and his family keep him busy, he spends as much time outdoors as he can. He's a particular fan of long-distance walking, having completed the West Highland Way, the Hadrian's Wall Path, the Laugavegur, and the Inca Trail, among others. The pandemic has turned him to virtual walks, with the latest project being a 2300 km trek from The Shire to Mordor. He's learning how sturdy those hobbits really were.
His writing began with a travel blog and then a veterinary blog. His first book, "The Accidental Veterinarian", a collection of non-fiction stories from his practice, was published by ECW Press in 2019. It became a Canadian bestseller and was translated into five languages. "The Willow Wren" (ECW Press 2021) is his first novel. "How To Examine a Wolverine", a sequel to "The Accidental Veterinarian" was published in 2021, and the second sequel, "The Battle Cry of the Siamese Kitten" came out in 2023.
Philipp has also been writing cozy-ish mysteries featuring Dr. Peter Bannerman, veterinarian and amateur detective, ! So far there has been "Fifty-Four Pigs" (2022), "Six Ostriches" (2023), and "Eleven Huskies" (2024). "Three Bengal Kittens" should be out soon...
He and Lorraine live in a creaky old house on the river with two children and several pets. Although the clinic, writing, and his family keep him busy, he spends as much time outdoors as he can. He's a particular fan of long-distance walking, having completed the West Highland Way, the Hadrian's Wall Path, the Laugavegur, and the Inca Trail, among others. The pandemic has turned him to virtual walks, with the latest project being a 2300 km trek from The Shire to Mordor. He's learning how sturdy those hobbits really were.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews
May 3, 2026
Came for the kittens stayed for the autistic vet
December 2, 2025
Wonderful setting, characters, and I learned some things!
All that veterinarian Peter Bannerman wants is a happy life with his wife Laura and a chance to help animals in his veterinary practice. He does not want to get involved with solving another murder, but when his brother Sam is arrested for murdering his neighbor he has little choice, especially since Sam had been taking care of the murder victim’s three Bengal kittens.
I have enjoyed all of the books in this series. The characters are interesting and certainly not dull, e.g., the elderly neighbor of Sam’s who has an imaginary cat . Peter Bannerman’s autism makes him a wonderful protagonist, an organized, almost obsessively analytic problem solver, albeit one who is not too perceptive about people. I picked up a lot of fun factoids that added to my enjoyment, like his musing about the availability heuristic in reference to his brother.. Since Bannerman is a vet, there were a number of animal tidbits, like information on loaches, a fish I had never heard of., And, of course, he was determined to solve the murder. Also, like most Americans, I know little about Manitoba and enjoyed the well-drawn setting and scenery description.
I would categorize the Dr.Bannerman books as more of a mainstream series with a murder as a major plot element than as primarily a whodunit. The denouement was credible but not the kind of puzzle that a clever reader would solve. The actual murder technique, however, was fascinating!
A fun feature of Three Bengal Kittens is that the prologue, several interspersed chapters, and the conclusion have the viewpoint of one of the kittens. Since author Schott is a veterinarian, it is not surprising that I found these chapters credible, and my cats agreed when I read one to them!
If you have not read the other books in the series, you can enjoy this book anyway, but I highly recommend you read about the Fifty-four Pigs, Six Ostriches, and Eleven Huskies first so you can get to know the characters and enjoy the Canadian setting. I also recommend Schott’s memoir, The Accidental Veterinarian.
SPOILER ALERT: The book has a happy ending for the kittens!
I received an advance review copy of this book from NetGalley and ECW Press.
All that veterinarian Peter Bannerman wants is a happy life with his wife Laura and a chance to help animals in his veterinary practice. He does not want to get involved with solving another murder, but when his brother Sam is arrested for murdering his neighbor he has little choice, especially since Sam had been taking care of the murder victim’s three Bengal kittens.
I have enjoyed all of the books in this series. The characters are interesting and certainly not dull, e.g., the elderly neighbor of Sam’s who has an imaginary cat . Peter Bannerman’s autism makes him a wonderful protagonist, an organized, almost obsessively analytic problem solver, albeit one who is not too perceptive about people. I picked up a lot of fun factoids that added to my enjoyment, like his musing about the availability heuristic in reference to his brother.. Since Bannerman is a vet, there were a number of animal tidbits, like information on loaches, a fish I had never heard of., And, of course, he was determined to solve the murder. Also, like most Americans, I know little about Manitoba and enjoyed the well-drawn setting and scenery description.
I would categorize the Dr.Bannerman books as more of a mainstream series with a murder as a major plot element than as primarily a whodunit. The denouement was credible but not the kind of puzzle that a clever reader would solve. The actual murder technique, however, was fascinating!
A fun feature of Three Bengal Kittens is that the prologue, several interspersed chapters, and the conclusion have the viewpoint of one of the kittens. Since author Schott is a veterinarian, it is not surprising that I found these chapters credible, and my cats agreed when I read one to them!
If you have not read the other books in the series, you can enjoy this book anyway, but I highly recommend you read about the Fifty-four Pigs, Six Ostriches, and Eleven Huskies first so you can get to know the characters and enjoy the Canadian setting. I also recommend Schott’s memoir, The Accidental Veterinarian.
SPOILER ALERT: The book has a happy ending for the kittens!
I received an advance review copy of this book from NetGalley and ECW Press.
April 19, 2026
I received an advance copy of this book. Thank you.
This is the 4th book in the series, and although it can be read as a standalone book, having read the others gives some background and for me, the anticipation of wondering what Dr. Bannerman will get into this time.
What makes this series refreshing and unique is the cast of characters in the stories. Dr. Peter Bannerman is a veterinarian, and it soon becomes clear why he prefers animal patients to human ones. With his Autistic traits, his animal patients never misunderstand him, while their owners often do. He likes to see things logically, and dreads being in situations that require him to listen to nonsense and small talk. Peter often finds himself drawn into investigating a crime or murder when he notices inconsistencies and feels compelled to puzzle them over. His wife Laura is the perfect foil for him, also logical, but bubbly and warm. Kevin, Laura's brother, is a gay police officer in town, who Peter often consults when he finds himself drawn into an investigation. Peter is not a loner and has many friends who appreciate his uniqueness.
In this book, Peter's brother Sam has recently moved closer, and now there's a lot more communication between the two. Sam suffers from some delusional mental illness, and his frantic calls draw Peter in. One of Sam's neighbors is found dead, and Sam takes in his 3 Bengal Kittens. Soon suspicion falls on Sam and he is arrested for the murder. Peter springs into action trying to find out more about Sam's neighbors and clearing his brother's name. The neighbors are all interesting characters.
This book has a lot of action. One cute thing is that sprinkled throughout the book, one of the Kittens gives us his perspective. Pippen, Peter's faithful dog, accompanies him as he investigates.
This is a light, easy read, no blood, gore, cursing, but a solid mystery.
This is the 4th book in the series, and although it can be read as a standalone book, having read the others gives some background and for me, the anticipation of wondering what Dr. Bannerman will get into this time.
What makes this series refreshing and unique is the cast of characters in the stories. Dr. Peter Bannerman is a veterinarian, and it soon becomes clear why he prefers animal patients to human ones. With his Autistic traits, his animal patients never misunderstand him, while their owners often do. He likes to see things logically, and dreads being in situations that require him to listen to nonsense and small talk. Peter often finds himself drawn into investigating a crime or murder when he notices inconsistencies and feels compelled to puzzle them over. His wife Laura is the perfect foil for him, also logical, but bubbly and warm. Kevin, Laura's brother, is a gay police officer in town, who Peter often consults when he finds himself drawn into an investigation. Peter is not a loner and has many friends who appreciate his uniqueness.
In this book, Peter's brother Sam has recently moved closer, and now there's a lot more communication between the two. Sam suffers from some delusional mental illness, and his frantic calls draw Peter in. One of Sam's neighbors is found dead, and Sam takes in his 3 Bengal Kittens. Soon suspicion falls on Sam and he is arrested for the murder. Peter springs into action trying to find out more about Sam's neighbors and clearing his brother's name. The neighbors are all interesting characters.
This book has a lot of action. One cute thing is that sprinkled throughout the book, one of the Kittens gives us his perspective. Pippen, Peter's faithful dog, accompanies him as he investigates.
This is a light, easy read, no blood, gore, cursing, but a solid mystery.
April 24, 2026
4.5 stars
If not for the animal point-of-view chapters, this would be a clean five-star book. Everything about it is gorgeous amateur sleuth writing. I hope this series continues for a very long time.
I received and advance review copy of this title in exchange for an honest review.
If not for the animal point-of-view chapters, this would be a clean five-star book. Everything about it is gorgeous amateur sleuth writing. I hope this series continues for a very long time.
I received and advance review copy of this title in exchange for an honest review.
April 25, 2026
Dr. Peter Bannerman, a veterinarian in the lakeside town of New Selfoss, Manitoba, is an amateur sleuth who can't help getting involved in criminal investigations. Peter knows he's on the autism spectrum, and uses his 'compulsions' to propel his detective work.
In this fourth 'Dr. Bannerman Vet Mystery', Peter goes into action when his brother Sam is accused of murder. Sam is a struggling artist who recently moved into a Winnipeg apartment building called Lady Alice, located about an hour from New Selfoss. Sam is mentally unstable and calls Peter whenever a problem arises.
As the story opens, Sam phones Peter about a missing cat. Sam's neighbor Dženan Knezevic died suddenly and Sam took in Knezevic's three bengal kittens - Barry, Flinders, and Mr. Bingley.
Mr. Bingley has now escaped, and Sam insists that Peter hurry over with his renowned sniffer dog, Pippin, to search for the cat.
While Peter, Sam, and Pippin scout the neighbors and the neighborhood looking for Mr. Bingley, the police show up to interview Sam about Dženan Knezevic's death. The next thing Sam knows the police charge him with first degree murder.
The facts are these: Dženan Knezevic, a 70-year-old Bosnian immigrant, died from being drugged and suffocated. Sam regularly played backgammon with Knezevic, and was in Knezevic's apartment on the afternoon of his murder.
Sam relies on Peter to get him a lawyer, and - in his defense - Sam claims Dženan Knezevic was being haunted by ghosts. According to Sam, the ghosts were making noises and moving things around in Knezevic's apartment, and they killed him.
Peter doesn't believe in ghosts, but he's convinced Sam is innocent, and he sets out to find the real culprit. Peter considers the most important clue a mark on the wall outside Knezevic's apartment: a kind of Celtic knot containing a Utasha - a symbol used by a Croatian ultra-nationalist organization.
The Utasha symbol leads Peter to believe the killer is a person with Bosnian/Croatian heritage who had an animus against Knezevic. Moreover, since a key is needed to enter the Lady Alice apartment building, Peter thinks the killer is a resident.
To gather information, Peter knocks on every door in the building, on the pretext of offering a reward for finding Mr. Bingley. Peter makes a roster of suspects, based on the evidence he can glean. For instance:
☕︎☕︎ Elena has a Slavic accent.
☕︎☕︎ Ed served in an army unit that may have been stationed in Bosnia.
☕︎☕︎ Josh and Claire backpacked in the Balkans a few years ago.
☕︎☕︎ Mia looks like she could be from southeastern Europe.
Peter knows these 'clues' are very flimsy, and he tries to deepen his investigation. Though Peter's inquiries form the core of the story, much of the book's charm lies with the recurring characters. These include:
☕︎☕︎ Laura - Peter's wife, who's one of the foremost knitters of bespoke geek-wear anywhere. In this book Laura is making a 'Matrix' sweater with the vertical lines of code in acid green on the movie poster. Laura keeps Peter focused when he gets carried away with his investigations.
☕︎☕︎ Kevin - Laura's brother, who's a detective with the Royal Canadian Mounties. Kevin sometimes gets annoyed when Peter's detective work interferes with REAL police investigations, but he always tries to be helpful.
☕︎☕︎ Stuart - Kevin's Nigerian partner, an accountant and excellent cook. Stuart is an easygoing fellow with close ties to his parents and siblings in Nigeria.
In this book, Kevin and Stuart adopt a new puppy, a Shetland sheepdog called Orbit, because - when the pup is loose - he joyfully careens in circles, tail wagging, with an expression of pure delight. Orbit performs a selfless service in this novel, when he gets a small scratch that helps locate Mr. Bingley.
As always in these books, Peter runs into terrible trouble before he solves the case, but he manages to unveil the truth in the end.
For me, this book is okay, but not as good as the previous novels in the series. The earlier books were more exciting, and had more interesting tidbits about immigrant culture and history. Still, I'd recommend the book to Peter Bannerman fans.
Thanks to Netgalley, Philipp Schott, and ECW Press for an ARC of the book.
You can follow my reviews at http://reviewsbybarbsaffer.blogspot.com
April 20, 2026
Originally posted on my blog Nonstop Reader.
Three Bengal Kittens is the fourth Dr. Bannerman veterinary mystery by Dr. Philipp Schott. Released 14th April 2026 by ECW Press, it's 256 pages and is available in paperback, audio, and ebook formats. It's worth noting that the ebook format has a handy interactive table of contents as well as interactive links and references.
This is a nice follow up to the other books in the series, featuring an amateur sleuth who is also a veterinarian and high functioning neurodivergent protagonist alongside his trusty canine sidekick Pippin, a husky/lab/border collie mix with a gifted sense of smell and an unusually high degree of intelligence to go with it. Dr. Bannerman struck me as an odd guy, generally likeable but also stubborn and often pedantic. Readers who enjoy nerdy culture references with which the author liberally sprinkles around in the story will find a lot to enjoy here. Additionally, it's cool that Bannerman's wife is also a nerdy fibre artist and knitting designer.
The book is well plotted and moves along at a good clip; definitely action driven and engaging. Un usually in this case, the characterizations are above average and believably rendered. There were a few places in the book where the dialogue didn't ring true at all, but all in all, well written and enjoyably readable. This episode tangentially touches on the war and ethnic cleansing in the Bosnia/Herzegovina conflict and right wing paramilitary groups. There are frank discussions about mental health, including some uncomfortably explicit descriptions and dialogue about psychotic episodes and dissociation/hallucination.
It's not really a cozy mystery at all and shares more in common with modern medical thrillers than "James Herriot". The author is clearly familiar with rural Manitoba and he does a great job describing the weather, the area, and the history of the place. There is some on-page violence as well as some mildly graphic descriptions of mental health gaslighting, suffocation/murder, poisoning, and ethnic violence. Language and dialogue are mostly PG rated shading toward the R-rated end of the spectrum.
The unabridged audiobook has a run time of 6 hours and 51 minutes and is capably narrated by series narrator Miles Meili. He has a rugged and rough-edged baritone which suits the dialogue very well. Sound and production quality are high throughout the recording.
Four stars. Very enjoyable, looking forward to seeing what comes next for Peter, Laura, and Pippin (&co). The author/publisher have included a sneak peek at the fifth book in the series, Five Icelandic Ponies at the back of the book.
Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.
Three Bengal Kittens is the fourth Dr. Bannerman veterinary mystery by Dr. Philipp Schott. Released 14th April 2026 by ECW Press, it's 256 pages and is available in paperback, audio, and ebook formats. It's worth noting that the ebook format has a handy interactive table of contents as well as interactive links and references.
This is a nice follow up to the other books in the series, featuring an amateur sleuth who is also a veterinarian and high functioning neurodivergent protagonist alongside his trusty canine sidekick Pippin, a husky/lab/border collie mix with a gifted sense of smell and an unusually high degree of intelligence to go with it. Dr. Bannerman struck me as an odd guy, generally likeable but also stubborn and often pedantic. Readers who enjoy nerdy culture references with which the author liberally sprinkles around in the story will find a lot to enjoy here. Additionally, it's cool that Bannerman's wife is also a nerdy fibre artist and knitting designer.
The book is well plotted and moves along at a good clip; definitely action driven and engaging. Un usually in this case, the characterizations are above average and believably rendered. There were a few places in the book where the dialogue didn't ring true at all, but all in all, well written and enjoyably readable. This episode tangentially touches on the war and ethnic cleansing in the Bosnia/Herzegovina conflict and right wing paramilitary groups. There are frank discussions about mental health, including some uncomfortably explicit descriptions and dialogue about psychotic episodes and dissociation/hallucination.
It's not really a cozy mystery at all and shares more in common with modern medical thrillers than "James Herriot". The author is clearly familiar with rural Manitoba and he does a great job describing the weather, the area, and the history of the place. There is some on-page violence as well as some mildly graphic descriptions of mental health gaslighting, suffocation/murder, poisoning, and ethnic violence. Language and dialogue are mostly PG rated shading toward the R-rated end of the spectrum.
The unabridged audiobook has a run time of 6 hours and 51 minutes and is capably narrated by series narrator Miles Meili. He has a rugged and rough-edged baritone which suits the dialogue very well. Sound and production quality are high throughout the recording.
Four stars. Very enjoyable, looking forward to seeing what comes next for Peter, Laura, and Pippin (&co). The author/publisher have included a sneak peek at the fifth book in the series, Five Icelandic Ponies at the back of the book.
Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Three Bengal Kittens is the fourth book in the Dr Bannerman Vet Mystery series by Canadian veterinarian and author, Philipp Schott. Now that his older brother, Sam has moved from Toronto to a bachelor suite in the North End of Winnipeg, veterinarian Dr Peter Bannerman receives numerous calls, mostly complaints, from him. On this particular September Saturday, there are more than usual: Sam is concerned about his neighbour’s abnormally vocal kittens.
When Peter gets the full story, it seems that their elderly Bosnian owner is dead, hence the clamour, and Sam has the care of three Bengal kittens. But Sam’s latest call is in a panic as one of the kittens has escaped. Sam’s fragile mental health tends towards exaggeration and implausible scenarios: Dzenan Knezevic was murdered; someone has stolen Mr Bingley to sell online.
Peter brings expert sniffer Pippin to help in the search, but is convinced to kitten-sit when the police take Sam in for a formal statement. Things get dire, though, when Sam is charged with first-degree murder. Peter sorts out a lawyer for Sam, whose overriding concerns are that Peter: find Mr Bingley; get Pippin to sniff out the ghosts that killed Dzenan; and stay the night in his apartment to keep Mr Bingley’s brothers company, the latter an unenviable task as the apartment is stuffed to the gills with the results of Sam’s hoarding.
By now, Laura Bannerman has accepted that her husband can’t resist some amateur detecting, so she opts to be the voice of reason when he relates the facts and his suspicions, to make his involvement safer and more productive. Worried that the police tend towards confirmation bias, Peter knows that he needs find a more likely suspect, before Sam’s mental health breaks down completely.
The obvious place to start in the apartment block where Sam and Dzenan live, and the missing Mr Bingley gives him a believable excuse to knock on the remaining six doors. He eventually decides that some of them are potential suspects, but can’t find strong evidence to implicate any of them. Meanwhile, as Sam’s mental health deteriorates, the situation becomes more urgent.
When Peter ends up in the ICU, it has less to do with the fire he tries to put out, and is more a result of the temptation of tea. As usual, the prologue is from the perspective of the creatures requiring Peter’s input: the adventurous Mr Bingley gets his own narrative, and it’s soon clear that he’s a clever escape artist, managing it three times in two days. His perspective is quite amusing.
There is a preview of the fifth book in the series, Five Icelandic Ponies. This is an entertaining and very enjoyable cosy mystery series, and fans of quirky Peter Bannerman, Pippin, and their support characters, will look forward to the next instalment.
This unbiased review is from an uncorrected proof copy provided by NetGalley and ECW Press
When Peter gets the full story, it seems that their elderly Bosnian owner is dead, hence the clamour, and Sam has the care of three Bengal kittens. But Sam’s latest call is in a panic as one of the kittens has escaped. Sam’s fragile mental health tends towards exaggeration and implausible scenarios: Dzenan Knezevic was murdered; someone has stolen Mr Bingley to sell online.
Peter brings expert sniffer Pippin to help in the search, but is convinced to kitten-sit when the police take Sam in for a formal statement. Things get dire, though, when Sam is charged with first-degree murder. Peter sorts out a lawyer for Sam, whose overriding concerns are that Peter: find Mr Bingley; get Pippin to sniff out the ghosts that killed Dzenan; and stay the night in his apartment to keep Mr Bingley’s brothers company, the latter an unenviable task as the apartment is stuffed to the gills with the results of Sam’s hoarding.
By now, Laura Bannerman has accepted that her husband can’t resist some amateur detecting, so she opts to be the voice of reason when he relates the facts and his suspicions, to make his involvement safer and more productive. Worried that the police tend towards confirmation bias, Peter knows that he needs find a more likely suspect, before Sam’s mental health breaks down completely.
The obvious place to start in the apartment block where Sam and Dzenan live, and the missing Mr Bingley gives him a believable excuse to knock on the remaining six doors. He eventually decides that some of them are potential suspects, but can’t find strong evidence to implicate any of them. Meanwhile, as Sam’s mental health deteriorates, the situation becomes more urgent.
When Peter ends up in the ICU, it has less to do with the fire he tries to put out, and is more a result of the temptation of tea. As usual, the prologue is from the perspective of the creatures requiring Peter’s input: the adventurous Mr Bingley gets his own narrative, and it’s soon clear that he’s a clever escape artist, managing it three times in two days. His perspective is quite amusing.
There is a preview of the fifth book in the series, Five Icelandic Ponies. This is an entertaining and very enjoyable cosy mystery series, and fans of quirky Peter Bannerman, Pippin, and their support characters, will look forward to the next instalment.
This unbiased review is from an uncorrected proof copy provided by NetGalley and ECW Press
October 30, 2025
Thanks to NetGalley and ECW Publishers for the much-appreciated ARC of Three Bengal Kittens. The Author Philipp Schott is a veterinarian who is partly retired from a Winnipeg animal hospital. This is the 4th book in the Dr. Peter Bannerman Vet Mysteries. I have read them all with great enjoyment. He has also written books describing his veterinarian practice and the history of animal care.
His main character, Dr. Peter Bannerman, is a proficient, capable, and caring vet who works with pets and farm animals. He is greatly admired by pet owners, but others have considered him odd. Past books describe an obsessive-compulsive personality with some aspects of autism. Following the advice, he has been making efforts to socialize and talk with people. He seems quite normal in this book. He has always had an eye for detail that others miss, so in his spare time, he acts as an unofficial detective with his sniffer-dog, Pippin.
His wife worries that he will come to harm while investigating criminal activity. Kevin, his brother-in-law, is an RCMP member and does not want Dr.Peter interfering with police work, but admits he has frequently met with success. Dr. Peter Bannerman feels that it is his duty to investigate when the crimes involve any of his animal patients.
His reason for resuming his detective work is quite different this time. His brother Sam is mentally and emotionally unstable. He has psychotic symptoms, becomes easily agitated, and believes conspiracy theories. A man has died in Sam's apartment building. The cause was believed to be accidental erotic asphyxiation. Sam rescued three Bengal kittens from the deceased neighbour. Now there is a strong suspicion that the man was murdered and the death scene was a setup.
Sam has been arrested for murder based on little evidence. Dr. Peter does not believe the unstable Sam is capable of murder. He is looking for other suspects within the building. When he visits the prison, Sam rambles on about ghosts causing the death. He seems more worried that one of the kittens has gone missing than the fact that he has been charged with the crime. Dr. Peter resolves to solve the murder, secure Sam's release, and find the missing kitten.
The story is told from Peter's and the kitten's viewpoints. It begins in a light-hearted manner, but becomes fast-paced and dangerous. Is the missing kitten found? The solution to the murder has international implications, with revenge from an old war. As Dr. Peter gets closer to proof of the murder, he becomes a victim and is close to death.
Recommended to those who enjoy animal stories and a great amateur detective series. The book is scheduled for publication on April 14/2026.
His main character, Dr. Peter Bannerman, is a proficient, capable, and caring vet who works with pets and farm animals. He is greatly admired by pet owners, but others have considered him odd. Past books describe an obsessive-compulsive personality with some aspects of autism. Following the advice, he has been making efforts to socialize and talk with people. He seems quite normal in this book. He has always had an eye for detail that others miss, so in his spare time, he acts as an unofficial detective with his sniffer-dog, Pippin.
His wife worries that he will come to harm while investigating criminal activity. Kevin, his brother-in-law, is an RCMP member and does not want Dr.Peter interfering with police work, but admits he has frequently met with success. Dr. Peter Bannerman feels that it is his duty to investigate when the crimes involve any of his animal patients.
His reason for resuming his detective work is quite different this time. His brother Sam is mentally and emotionally unstable. He has psychotic symptoms, becomes easily agitated, and believes conspiracy theories. A man has died in Sam's apartment building. The cause was believed to be accidental erotic asphyxiation. Sam rescued three Bengal kittens from the deceased neighbour. Now there is a strong suspicion that the man was murdered and the death scene was a setup.
Sam has been arrested for murder based on little evidence. Dr. Peter does not believe the unstable Sam is capable of murder. He is looking for other suspects within the building. When he visits the prison, Sam rambles on about ghosts causing the death. He seems more worried that one of the kittens has gone missing than the fact that he has been charged with the crime. Dr. Peter resolves to solve the murder, secure Sam's release, and find the missing kitten.
The story is told from Peter's and the kitten's viewpoints. It begins in a light-hearted manner, but becomes fast-paced and dangerous. Is the missing kitten found? The solution to the murder has international implications, with revenge from an old war. As Dr. Peter gets closer to proof of the murder, he becomes a victim and is close to death.
Recommended to those who enjoy animal stories and a great amateur detective series. The book is scheduled for publication on April 14/2026.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
* A Canadian Cozy *
I don't as a rule read "cozy" thrillers but I have made an exemption in the case of the Dr. Bannerman Vet Mysteries by Canadian author Philipp Schott. Dr. Schott works as a veterinarian in Winnipeg, and has written three memoirs about some of the animals (and their owners) he has treated. After successfully publishing his memoirs, he began a fictional series about a veterinarian who liked solving crimes. I enjoy the humour that Dr. Schott brings to both his memoirs and his fictional thrillers.
THREE BENGAL KITTENS is #4 in the "Dr. Bannerman Vet" fiction series. As with all novels in this series, it is more about the people forming Dr. Peter Bannerman's family group, and about their relationship with animals, than it is about investigating a murder mystery. In previous books, we have met Laura, Peter's highly supportive wife; his brother-in-law, Kevin, an RCMP officer; Stuart, Kevin's husband; and—most important—Pippin, Peter's award-winning sniffer dog. We also know that Dr. Bannerman is on the obsessive-compulsive spectrum, although his symptoms as not so severe as to impede his everyday functioning.
In THREE BENGAL KITTENS, we are introduced to a new member of Peter's family—Sam, his brother. Sam has more severe OC symptoms, including extensive hoarding. Sam had moved to Toronto, in an attempt to prosper as an artist, but failed to thrive, and so returned to Manitoba where he now lives in a low-rent Winnipeg apartment. When a man in the apartment below Sam's died, Sam took in his three bengal kittens—Barry, Flinders, and Mr. Bingley. Mr. Bingley has the zooomies, and escaped from Sam's room, so Peter (and Pippin) are initially called in to search for him. Then, Sam is arrested for murder (of the kittens' original owner) and Peter begins his amateur sleuthing, interviewing all inhabitants of the apartment building.
The murder mystery is not very important in this story. We learn little about the personality of the murdered man, and the killer, when finally unmasked, plays only a small part in the novel. What is more important is the manifestation of Sam's symptoms—his hoarding, the fact that sees ghosts, and his inability to come to terms with these serious mental issues. Also, the author has included several chapters using the viewpoint of Mr. Bingley. These animal POV scenes could be a setback in a normal mystery story but Dr. Schott has the ability to see things from an animal's perspective. (Confession: I have a cat who also has the zoomies periodically, and will wait secretly behind me in order to zoom into a forbidden room. Then he waits patiently until allowed back into familiar territory, exactly like Mr. Bingley.)
A nice relaxing reading experience. Some of its comic passages are likely to hit home more to Canadians than to readers from other countries.
Thanks to ECW Press for providing an electronic copy of this book via Netgalley. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinions.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
My reviews for other books written by Dr. Schott:
Fifty-four Pigs (Dr. Bannerman Vet Mystery, #1)
The Battle Cry of the Siamese Kitten
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
I don't as a rule read "cozy" thrillers but I have made an exemption in the case of the Dr. Bannerman Vet Mysteries by Canadian author Philipp Schott. Dr. Schott works as a veterinarian in Winnipeg, and has written three memoirs about some of the animals (and their owners) he has treated. After successfully publishing his memoirs, he began a fictional series about a veterinarian who liked solving crimes. I enjoy the humour that Dr. Schott brings to both his memoirs and his fictional thrillers.
THREE BENGAL KITTENS is #4 in the "Dr. Bannerman Vet" fiction series. As with all novels in this series, it is more about the people forming Dr. Peter Bannerman's family group, and about their relationship with animals, than it is about investigating a murder mystery. In previous books, we have met Laura, Peter's highly supportive wife; his brother-in-law, Kevin, an RCMP officer; Stuart, Kevin's husband; and—most important—Pippin, Peter's award-winning sniffer dog. We also know that Dr. Bannerman is on the obsessive-compulsive spectrum, although his symptoms as not so severe as to impede his everyday functioning.
In THREE BENGAL KITTENS, we are introduced to a new member of Peter's family—Sam, his brother. Sam has more severe OC symptoms, including extensive hoarding. Sam had moved to Toronto, in an attempt to prosper as an artist, but failed to thrive, and so returned to Manitoba where he now lives in a low-rent Winnipeg apartment. When a man in the apartment below Sam's died, Sam took in his three bengal kittens—Barry, Flinders, and Mr. Bingley. Mr. Bingley has the zooomies, and escaped from Sam's room, so Peter (and Pippin) are initially called in to search for him. Then, Sam is arrested for murder (of the kittens' original owner) and Peter begins his amateur sleuthing, interviewing all inhabitants of the apartment building.
The murder mystery is not very important in this story. We learn little about the personality of the murdered man, and the killer, when finally unmasked, plays only a small part in the novel. What is more important is the manifestation of Sam's symptoms—his hoarding, the fact that sees ghosts, and his inability to come to terms with these serious mental issues. Also, the author has included several chapters using the viewpoint of Mr. Bingley. These animal POV scenes could be a setback in a normal mystery story but Dr. Schott has the ability to see things from an animal's perspective. (Confession: I have a cat who also has the zoomies periodically, and will wait secretly behind me in order to zoom into a forbidden room. Then he waits patiently until allowed back into familiar territory, exactly like Mr. Bingley.)
A nice relaxing reading experience. Some of its comic passages are likely to hit home more to Canadians than to readers from other countries.
Thanks to ECW Press for providing an electronic copy of this book via Netgalley. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinions.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
My reviews for other books written by Dr. Schott:
Fifty-four Pigs (Dr. Bannerman Vet Mystery, #1)
The Battle Cry of the Siamese Kitten
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I want to thank ECW Press and NetGalley for the opportunity to read an advanced copy of Three Bengal Kittens. However, all opinions expressed here are solely mine.
I was excited to learn that a fourth book in the Dr. Bannerman series was being released, as I have enjoyed the first three. My introduction to the series was quite by accident, as I was scrolling through my library looking for a quick mystery to read. And of course, I want to support as many Canadian authors as I can. The first book, Fifty-Four Pigs, was quickly read, followed by the second, Six Ostriches. Upon learning of Three Bengal Kittens, I made sure to read the third book in the series, Eleven Huskies.
In the case of most mystery series, I would say you could read them in any order, with little to no issues. In many ways, this holds for this series, but I would still recommend reading them in order. This is to better understand the quirks and relationships among the assorted characters.
Peter is an interesting character, especially the more time you spend with him. He has certain mannerisms that may bother readers if they jump into the series midway through. Why do I say that? Well, because Peter is autistic. This is something that Schott does not shy away from discussing. Peter knows his mannerisms may bother others, but after a while, he doesn’t care. Nor should he; why should he have to adapt to fit other people’s ideals?
There are also discussions of mental health issues, as Sam has psychotic episodes. While these may not always be handled in the best ways, they are openly discussed. Unfortunately, they were also used as a way to look at Sam as a main suspect in the murder. Sadly, it’s also used to make him act in ways he might not normally.
Overall, my favorite character in the series has been Pippen. He is a champion scent dog. Who knew there were competitions for such things? Pippen is essentially Peter’s best friend and an almost constant companion throughout everything that happens.
One thing I will say about this book, and the series in general, is that it’s not a typical cozy mystery. There’s not much to make you laugh or smile while trying to solve the crime. These are more slice-of-life books in which the local vet finds himself in unfortunate situations.
That said, I feel that everyone who enjoys reading mysteries should give this series a read. The books are all under 300 pages, and are not as heavy as many other mysteries and thrillers.
I was excited to learn that a fourth book in the Dr. Bannerman series was being released, as I have enjoyed the first three. My introduction to the series was quite by accident, as I was scrolling through my library looking for a quick mystery to read. And of course, I want to support as many Canadian authors as I can. The first book, Fifty-Four Pigs, was quickly read, followed by the second, Six Ostriches. Upon learning of Three Bengal Kittens, I made sure to read the third book in the series, Eleven Huskies.
In the case of most mystery series, I would say you could read them in any order, with little to no issues. In many ways, this holds for this series, but I would still recommend reading them in order. This is to better understand the quirks and relationships among the assorted characters.
Peter is an interesting character, especially the more time you spend with him. He has certain mannerisms that may bother readers if they jump into the series midway through. Why do I say that? Well, because Peter is autistic. This is something that Schott does not shy away from discussing. Peter knows his mannerisms may bother others, but after a while, he doesn’t care. Nor should he; why should he have to adapt to fit other people’s ideals?
There are also discussions of mental health issues, as Sam has psychotic episodes. While these may not always be handled in the best ways, they are openly discussed. Unfortunately, they were also used as a way to look at Sam as a main suspect in the murder. Sadly, it’s also used to make him act in ways he might not normally.
Overall, my favorite character in the series has been Pippen. He is a champion scent dog. Who knew there were competitions for such things? Pippen is essentially Peter’s best friend and an almost constant companion throughout everything that happens.
One thing I will say about this book, and the series in general, is that it’s not a typical cozy mystery. There’s not much to make you laugh or smile while trying to solve the crime. These are more slice-of-life books in which the local vet finds himself in unfortunate situations.
That said, I feel that everyone who enjoys reading mysteries should give this series a read. The books are all under 300 pages, and are not as heavy as many other mysteries and thrillers.
April 16, 2026
With his sniffer dog, Pippin, Dr. Peter Bannerman uncovers suspects, treats animals, tracks a kitten kidnapper, and must solve a locked-room mystery.<?b>
In the fourth book in the series, Dr. Peter Bannerman’s brother Sam takes in three Bengal kittens after the previous owner, his neighbor in a Winnipeg north end apartment building, is found dead. The death was originally thought to be due to accidental autoerotic asphyxiation, but after investigation, Sam is arrested and charged with his neighbor’s murder.
Sam suffers from several mental health conditions, but Peter refuses to believe that he is capable of killing someone, so he sets out to prove his innocence. Sam, however, is more concerned about one of the kittens who has gone missing. With the help of his talented sniffer dog, Pippin, Peter tries to find the kitten, as well as evidence that someone else murdered the neighbor.
Peter talks to the other people in Sam’s building, and several appear to be plausible alternative killers. However, by that time Sam, still in custody, begins to rave about ghosts being the real murderers and insists Peter investigate that. Despite not believing in ghosts (not in the slightest), he has a terrifying experience while spending the night in Sam’s apartment.
The situation rapidly spirals, putting Peter and Pippin in peril and ultimately revealing a story of revenge served cold from decades ago and continents away.
2 1/2 stars. This was a mixed bag for me. I had a hard time getting into it because I was expecting the more of a mystery. Oh, there was a standard mystery but it took a backseat to the characters and animals in the story. That was fine. In fact, I really enjoyed them and that was a strength in the book. I was just expecting more of the focus on the mystery.
Overall, I thought Sam was sympathetically portrayed with his mental health issues. I just wished that it didn't go down the route of having Sam going on about ghosts. It made him seem like he was "crazy" instead of mentally ill.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for an ARC in exchange for an honest opinion.
In the fourth book in the series, Dr. Peter Bannerman’s brother Sam takes in three Bengal kittens after the previous owner, his neighbor in a Winnipeg north end apartment building, is found dead. The death was originally thought to be due to accidental autoerotic asphyxiation, but after investigation, Sam is arrested and charged with his neighbor’s murder.
Sam suffers from several mental health conditions, but Peter refuses to believe that he is capable of killing someone, so he sets out to prove his innocence. Sam, however, is more concerned about one of the kittens who has gone missing. With the help of his talented sniffer dog, Pippin, Peter tries to find the kitten, as well as evidence that someone else murdered the neighbor.
Peter talks to the other people in Sam’s building, and several appear to be plausible alternative killers. However, by that time Sam, still in custody, begins to rave about ghosts being the real murderers and insists Peter investigate that. Despite not believing in ghosts (not in the slightest), he has a terrifying experience while spending the night in Sam’s apartment.
The situation rapidly spirals, putting Peter and Pippin in peril and ultimately revealing a story of revenge served cold from decades ago and continents away.
2 1/2 stars. This was a mixed bag for me. I had a hard time getting into it because I was expecting the more of a mystery. Oh, there was a standard mystery but it took a backseat to the characters and animals in the story. That was fine. In fact, I really enjoyed them and that was a strength in the book. I was just expecting more of the focus on the mystery.
Overall, I thought Sam was sympathetically portrayed with his mental health issues. I just wished that it didn't go down the route of having Sam going on about ghosts. It made him seem like he was "crazy" instead of mentally ill.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for an ARC in exchange for an honest opinion.
May 7, 2026
While enjoying a quiet afternoon, Dr. Peter Bannerman receives a series of frantic calls from his brother Sam who lies in Winnipeg. Sam discovered his neighbour and friend dead, and decided to take in the man's three Bengal kittens.
The police initially classify the death the result of accidental autoerotic asphyxiation, but soon change their minds, and arrest Sam for his neighbour's murder.
Pete refuses to believe Sam could ever commit a murder, even though Sam suffers from severe mental health issues, for which he's on medication. Sam wants Peter's help finding one of the kittens, who has gone missing, so Pete drives the hour, with Pippin, and begins trying to find the fluffball and figure out what really happened to the neighbour.
Pete begins talking to others in the small apartment building, and some appear like they could be real suspects, but at the same time, Pete is dismayed when Sam begins confessing to the murder and implying he'll kill himself, pointing to Sam no longer taking his medication, and it becomes more urgent to find the killer.
It's clear someone has the kitten and isn't fessing up, and is also interested in what incriminating evidence may be in Sam's very, very cluttered residence, when this person attempts to enter the apartment late at night.
I've been really enjoying this series, particularly the opening to each one, where author Philipp Schott provides a prologue from an animal's perspective (the animal being the kind mentioned in the title). Here, he gives us repeated views from the missing kitten's perspective, and his love of exploring and food (of course he love food!) throughout this mystery, which, though not necessarily pointing to the murderer, gives us some ideas.
I greatly enjoyed this fourth instalment of this series, and though one can read it without having read the previous entries, I think the relationships amongst the characters become even deeper knowing their history.
I cannot wait to read the next entry.
Thank you to Netgalley and to ECW Press for this ARC in exchange for my review.
The police initially classify the death the result of accidental autoerotic asphyxiation, but soon change their minds, and arrest Sam for his neighbour's murder.
Pete refuses to believe Sam could ever commit a murder, even though Sam suffers from severe mental health issues, for which he's on medication. Sam wants Peter's help finding one of the kittens, who has gone missing, so Pete drives the hour, with Pippin, and begins trying to find the fluffball and figure out what really happened to the neighbour.
Pete begins talking to others in the small apartment building, and some appear like they could be real suspects, but at the same time, Pete is dismayed when Sam begins confessing to the murder and implying he'll kill himself, pointing to Sam no longer taking his medication, and it becomes more urgent to find the killer.
It's clear someone has the kitten and isn't fessing up, and is also interested in what incriminating evidence may be in Sam's very, very cluttered residence, when this person attempts to enter the apartment late at night.
I've been really enjoying this series, particularly the opening to each one, where author Philipp Schott provides a prologue from an animal's perspective (the animal being the kind mentioned in the title). Here, he gives us repeated views from the missing kitten's perspective, and his love of exploring and food (of course he love food!) throughout this mystery, which, though not necessarily pointing to the murderer, gives us some ideas.
I greatly enjoyed this fourth instalment of this series, and though one can read it without having read the previous entries, I think the relationships amongst the characters become even deeper knowing their history.
I cannot wait to read the next entry.
Thank you to Netgalley and to ECW Press for this ARC in exchange for my review.
May 10, 2026
3.5⭐️
This was a mixed bag for me. Usually I really enjoyed reading this cute short amateur sleuth series.
I was just kinda bored with this one. The characterization is the same, something good - there was no random thought about cheating on his wife. Though in this one, I felt zero chemistry between the two.
The first chapter is always from the POV of the animal in the title. Which cool, love it - this one the kitten got a chapter every couple chapters and it was so nothing burger. Like he views people as food man 1, food man 2, etc. Usually I love when animals have unexpected thoughts, but this felt lazy like there wasn’t enough plot to make a full length book.
I did like sibling dynamics between Peter and his brother Sam. Sam is a paranoid schizophrenic and that dichotomy between that and Peter’s autism was interesting and probably could’ve been explored more. Like how he relates to his brother is how people relate to him.
There’s a fifth book coming and I’ll probably read it. He really needs to actually solve something this time. Again - he wakes up days later after being hurt because… and the issue is solved.
‘He might be a nerd, and he might view emotion with suspicion as an atavistic burden, but he didn’t resist feeling joy and love at moments like this.’
“That’s an accident. A weird accident, but an accident nonetheless,” Peter said.
“If they’re right? I don’t like the sound of that. Haven’t you had your fill of murder?”
‘Cultist, or meth addict? Peter thought.
“Can Pippin smell ghosts?”
“Pure thought with no distracting pictures.” Peter has never considered this before. It felt like a door opening into an undiscovered room.’
This was a mixed bag for me. Usually I really enjoyed reading this cute short amateur sleuth series.
I was just kinda bored with this one. The characterization is the same, something good - there was no random thought about cheating on his wife. Though in this one, I felt zero chemistry between the two.
The first chapter is always from the POV of the animal in the title. Which cool, love it - this one the kitten got a chapter every couple chapters and it was so nothing burger. Like he views people as food man 1, food man 2, etc. Usually I love when animals have unexpected thoughts, but this felt lazy like there wasn’t enough plot to make a full length book.
I did like sibling dynamics between Peter and his brother Sam. Sam is a paranoid schizophrenic and that dichotomy between that and Peter’s autism was interesting and probably could’ve been explored more. Like how he relates to his brother is how people relate to him.
There’s a fifth book coming and I’ll probably read it. He really needs to actually solve something this time. Again - he wakes up days later after being hurt because… and the issue is solved.
‘He might be a nerd, and he might view emotion with suspicion as an atavistic burden, but he didn’t resist feeling joy and love at moments like this.’
“That’s an accident. A weird accident, but an accident nonetheless,” Peter said.
“If they’re right? I don’t like the sound of that. Haven’t you had your fill of murder?”
‘Cultist, or meth addict? Peter thought.
“Can Pippin smell ghosts?”
“Pure thought with no distracting pictures.” Peter has never considered this before. It felt like a door opening into an undiscovered room.’
April 24, 2026
Three Bengal Kittens is the fourth book in the Dr. Bannerman series. I was new to the series with book 3 and missing the earlier ones has not hampered my enjoyment of the books 3 or 4 or made me feel like I learned things that spoil the earlier ones for me when I get to them.
Peter Bannerman is a practicing veterinarian in the fictional town of New Selfoss, Manitoba, in the "New Iceland" region along Lake Winnipeg. He is a high functioning autistic with an understanding wife and a talented sniffer dog, Pippin. This book starts out with Peter’s brother Sam taking in three Bengal kittens after the previous owner, his neighbor in a Winnipeg apartment building, is found dead. Although the death is initially ruled accidental, the police soon reclassify it as murder and arrest Sam, leaving Peter to care for the kittens until another neighbor who can look after them returns to town. Peter doesn't believe his brother capable of murder, and starts looking at the other residents of the apartment building as the best alternative suspects, but in doing so may put himself (and Pippin) in danger! Schott's characters are interesting individuals, not a stereotype amongst them! The plot moves at a steady pace, although while most readers will likely be hard-pressed to solve the mystery any sooner than Peter Bannerman does (and he does so largely by accident); the story is more about the people and the process, finding clues and trying to rule suspects in or out.
Peter Bannerman is a practicing veterinarian in the fictional town of New Selfoss, Manitoba, in the "New Iceland" region along Lake Winnipeg. He is a high functioning autistic with an understanding wife and a talented sniffer dog, Pippin. This book starts out with Peter’s brother Sam taking in three Bengal kittens after the previous owner, his neighbor in a Winnipeg apartment building, is found dead. Although the death is initially ruled accidental, the police soon reclassify it as murder and arrest Sam, leaving Peter to care for the kittens until another neighbor who can look after them returns to town. Peter doesn't believe his brother capable of murder, and starts looking at the other residents of the apartment building as the best alternative suspects, but in doing so may put himself (and Pippin) in danger! Schott's characters are interesting individuals, not a stereotype amongst them! The plot moves at a steady pace, although while most readers will likely be hard-pressed to solve the mystery any sooner than Peter Bannerman does (and he does so largely by accident); the story is more about the people and the process, finding clues and trying to rule suspects in or out.
May 2, 2026
Dr. Bannerman is clearly autistic and he views the world through a unique lens, but his brother Sam is way off the charts.. Sam is marginally fine when he is on his meds but he has a tenuous grasp of reality that is threatened when a neighbour dies under mysterious circumstances. Before long Sam is arrested as the suspect in the man’s murder. As a vet, Peter is a good choice to take care of the three bengal kitties of the deceased who were in Sam’s care. But one of them, Mr. Bingley, has other ideas. He takes the first opportunity to escape and part of the book is written from his POV as he tastes freedom. It is up to Peter to find the escape artist.
As if things were not already convoluted enough, there is another murder and some suspicious events in the building that convince Peter the murderer lives in one of the apartments. He is going back and forth from Sam’s place to the remand centre to home and round and round he goes. He eliminates his suspects one by one but then he makes an almost fatal mistake. All I can say is thank goodness he has his wife Laura and his pooch Pippin who come to the rescue. Sometimes the book seems to take you down the rabbit hole, but it does end up being a solid whodunit. Four purrs and two paws up.
As if things were not already convoluted enough, there is another murder and some suspicious events in the building that convince Peter the murderer lives in one of the apartments. He is going back and forth from Sam’s place to the remand centre to home and round and round he goes. He eliminates his suspects one by one but then he makes an almost fatal mistake. All I can say is thank goodness he has his wife Laura and his pooch Pippin who come to the rescue. Sometimes the book seems to take you down the rabbit hole, but it does end up being a solid whodunit. Four purrs and two paws up.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Cozy and a bit zany!😀🐈
I spent a great day reading this latest Dr. Bannerman mystery! The style of writing--straightforward, economical and with a wry twist--really suits my aesthetic and I felt Three Bengal Kittens included some hilarious moments, mostly to do with the vet's brother Sam. Sam is arrested, accused of murdering his downstairs neighbor and while trying to find the real killer to get his brother freed Dr. Bannerman learns that Sam is not the only oddball in his Winnipeg neighborhood.
Mr. Bingley, one of the three Bengal kittens, has his own POV as he and his brothers move from pillar to post after his owner's death. He's an escape artist and his antics and perspective add to the humor and whimsy of Schott's novel. The stories about Bannerman's hometown Selfoss, its rivalry with Gimli and the immigrant origin stories are also mighty amusing.
I'm always anxious to see another Dr. Bannerman mystery is coming out. This one definitely met my expectations for a good cozy mystery.
Thanks to ECW Press and NetGalley for sharing a complimentary advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest opinion.
I spent a great day reading this latest Dr. Bannerman mystery! The style of writing--straightforward, economical and with a wry twist--really suits my aesthetic and I felt Three Bengal Kittens included some hilarious moments, mostly to do with the vet's brother Sam. Sam is arrested, accused of murdering his downstairs neighbor and while trying to find the real killer to get his brother freed Dr. Bannerman learns that Sam is not the only oddball in his Winnipeg neighborhood.
Mr. Bingley, one of the three Bengal kittens, has his own POV as he and his brothers move from pillar to post after his owner's death. He's an escape artist and his antics and perspective add to the humor and whimsy of Schott's novel. The stories about Bannerman's hometown Selfoss, its rivalry with Gimli and the immigrant origin stories are also mighty amusing.
I'm always anxious to see another Dr. Bannerman mystery is coming out. This one definitely met my expectations for a good cozy mystery.
Thanks to ECW Press and NetGalley for sharing a complimentary advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest opinion.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This series gets better with each book.
Dr Peter Banneman’s brother Sam calls to say that his neighbour has died under suspicious circumstances. Shortly after, Sam is apprehended as the main suspect in the murder case. Sam appears more worried about the disappearance of the three Bengal kittens he rescued, so while he is under investigation, he asks Peter and Peter’s remarkably skilled dog, Pippin, to help search for them.
Peter Banneman cannot simply follow the instruction to move into his brother’s flat to find the kittens but also starts looking for the real killer of Sam’s neighbour.
Love this series with Dr Peter Banneman, his wife (who knits complicated jerseys for clients) brother-in-law, an officer with the Royal Mounted Police in Canada and his faithful highly trained sniffer dog, Pippin. Each of these characters manage to have a part to play in Peter’s amateur investigations into crime.
Truly a brilliant series and I avidly wait for the next book in the series.
Elite Reviewing Group received a copy of the book from NetGalley to review.
Dr Peter Banneman’s brother Sam calls to say that his neighbour has died under suspicious circumstances. Shortly after, Sam is apprehended as the main suspect in the murder case. Sam appears more worried about the disappearance of the three Bengal kittens he rescued, so while he is under investigation, he asks Peter and Peter’s remarkably skilled dog, Pippin, to help search for them.
Peter Banneman cannot simply follow the instruction to move into his brother’s flat to find the kittens but also starts looking for the real killer of Sam’s neighbour.
Love this series with Dr Peter Banneman, his wife (who knits complicated jerseys for clients) brother-in-law, an officer with the Royal Mounted Police in Canada and his faithful highly trained sniffer dog, Pippin. Each of these characters manage to have a part to play in Peter’s amateur investigations into crime.
Truly a brilliant series and I avidly wait for the next book in the series.
Elite Reviewing Group received a copy of the book from NetGalley to review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
A Dr. Bannerman Vet Mystery by Philipp Schott
I'm a huge fan of Philipp Schott's writing! I am really enjoying the Dr. Peter Bannerman series. I love the writing and the subtle sense of dry humor, such as … (there was extra time in veterinarian Dr. Peter Bannerman’s schedule) … And the cat spay had turned into a neuter – a much quicker surgery – when Peter discovered Princess was actually a prince.
Or … his hair was long and straggly. Sometimes he put it in a greasy ponytail that Laura (Peter's wife) called his Patented Girl-Repellant.
So in the Three Bengal Kittens mystery Dr. Bannerman's brother has recently relocated into an apartment. Another man in the apartment complex dies, Dr. Bannerman's brother is being questioned. His brother asks Dr. Peter to bring his champion tracking dog to try to find an escaped bengal kitten.
Once again, I didn't pick up on enough clues to figure out the mystery before it was revealed. Philipp Schott stumps me every time! Maybe next time!
I've been a fan of Philipp Schott's writing ever since I stumbled upon the The Willow Wren, a very unique perspective of WWII; based on a true story, the authors uncle.
Many thanks to NetGalley, author Philipp Schott and his publisher ECW Press for approving my request to read the advance read copy of Three Bengal Kittens in exchange for an honest review.
Pub Date: Apr 14 2026, approx 240 pages
I'm a huge fan of Philipp Schott's writing! I am really enjoying the Dr. Peter Bannerman series. I love the writing and the subtle sense of dry humor, such as … (there was extra time in veterinarian Dr. Peter Bannerman’s schedule) … And the cat spay had turned into a neuter – a much quicker surgery – when Peter discovered Princess was actually a prince.
Or … his hair was long and straggly. Sometimes he put it in a greasy ponytail that Laura (Peter's wife) called his Patented Girl-Repellant.
So in the Three Bengal Kittens mystery Dr. Bannerman's brother has recently relocated into an apartment. Another man in the apartment complex dies, Dr. Bannerman's brother is being questioned. His brother asks Dr. Peter to bring his champion tracking dog to try to find an escaped bengal kitten.
Once again, I didn't pick up on enough clues to figure out the mystery before it was revealed. Philipp Schott stumps me every time! Maybe next time!
I've been a fan of Philipp Schott's writing ever since I stumbled upon the The Willow Wren, a very unique perspective of WWII; based on a true story, the authors uncle.
Many thanks to NetGalley, author Philipp Schott and his publisher ECW Press for approving my request to read the advance read copy of Three Bengal Kittens in exchange for an honest review.
Pub Date: Apr 14 2026, approx 240 pages
January 6, 2026
Thanks to ECW Press for the e-ARC.
"In the fourth book in the series, Dr. Peter Bannerman’s brother Sam takes in three Bengal kittens after the previous owner, his neighbor in a Winnipeg north end apartment building, is found dead. The death was originally thought to be due to accidental autoerotic asphyxiation, but after investigation, Sam is arrested and charged with his neighbor’s murder."
This is my first Dr Bannerman Vet Mystery but certainly not my last. I loved this book and read it in a day! I really enjoyed the writing style and pacing of this book, it keeps you on your toes. There is a lot going on as we learn about the residents of Sam's building, all suspects in Dr Bannerman's mind but it's easy to keep track of who's who. A page turner with the added bonus of every few chapters being written from one of the Bengal kittens' perspectives. Delightful!
I didn't figure out "whodunit" before the big reveal and it certainly was a surprise to me! Well played!
"In the fourth book in the series, Dr. Peter Bannerman’s brother Sam takes in three Bengal kittens after the previous owner, his neighbor in a Winnipeg north end apartment building, is found dead. The death was originally thought to be due to accidental autoerotic asphyxiation, but after investigation, Sam is arrested and charged with his neighbor’s murder."
This is my first Dr Bannerman Vet Mystery but certainly not my last. I loved this book and read it in a day! I really enjoyed the writing style and pacing of this book, it keeps you on your toes. There is a lot going on as we learn about the residents of Sam's building, all suspects in Dr Bannerman's mind but it's easy to keep track of who's who. A page turner with the added bonus of every few chapters being written from one of the Bengal kittens' perspectives. Delightful!
I didn't figure out "whodunit" before the big reveal and it certainly was a surprise to me! Well played!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Another delightful mystery in this series featuring amateur investigator, vet Dr Peter Bannerman and his dog Pippin. This time Peter, who is on the autistic spectrum, has to deal with his mentally fragile brother Sam, who panics when his friend and neighbour in his apartment block is found dead. Sam is taken into police custody and calls Peter to come and take care of the dead neighbour’s three Bengal kittens, one of whom has managed to escape.
With Sam doing little to help himself in police custody, Peter must solve the murder himself as he knows his brother could not have killed his friend and sets about scrutinizing all the residents.
The narrative is told from Peter’s point of view as well as the missing kitten, both with a lot of humour. Not a fast-paced murder mystery but a quirky one revolving around ghosts and old crimes with plenty of further character development for Peter’s family and friends.
With thanks to ECW Press via Netgalley for a copy to read
With Sam doing little to help himself in police custody, Peter must solve the murder himself as he knows his brother could not have killed his friend and sets about scrutinizing all the residents.
The narrative is told from Peter’s point of view as well as the missing kitten, both with a lot of humour. Not a fast-paced murder mystery but a quirky one revolving around ghosts and old crimes with plenty of further character development for Peter’s family and friends.
With thanks to ECW Press via Netgalley for a copy to read
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
A wonderful murder mystery. Dr Peter Bannerman's brother, Sam, is accused of murdering one of the other residents in the apartment building where he lives. Peter tries to help by investigating a bit, knowing that his brother is not capable of murder. We get to meet most of the residents, as well as follow along with one of the three Bengal kittens that the murdered man was keeping - that was quite fun! Wonderful, quirky characters, both old and new and a very intriguing mystery. I'm really enjoying this series.
Thanks to Netgalley, ECW Press, and Philipp Schott for the free ARC. All opinions are my own.
Thanks to Netgalley, ECW Press, and Philipp Schott for the free ARC. All opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Peter Bannerman's brother, Sam, has moved to Winnipeg and calls him because a cat has escaped. Sam's neighbour has died and he had three Bengal Kittens and Sam was looking after them when one got out. Sam has various issues and Peter has to tread carefully. Life gets even more complicated when Sam is arrested for murdering the neighbour, something he denies.
In the meantime we see life from the point of view of the missing kitten who is actively trying to return, but is lost.
Will Peter with the aid of Pippin be able to ascertain what actually happened, reunite the kitten with his brothers and get Sam out of jail?
As normal a fun book.
In the meantime we see life from the point of view of the missing kitten who is actively trying to return, but is lost.
Will Peter with the aid of Pippin be able to ascertain what actually happened, reunite the kitten with his brothers and get Sam out of jail?
As normal a fun book.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
I listened to the audio of this book thanks to ECW Press and Libro.fm.
This is the second Dr. Bannerman book I've listened to (despite it being 4th in the series) and I enjoyed this one more than the first. The books can be enjoyed as stand-alone books -- no need to have read any others.
I liked hearing part of the story from the perspective of the missing kitten, especially as it pertains to solving the mystery. I also felt like there was enough going on to keep the story progressing without losing pace.
I do wish that the author had written more history into the book, so as to give readers with little background knowledge more context for the resolution.
This is the second Dr. Bannerman book I've listened to (despite it being 4th in the series) and I enjoyed this one more than the first. The books can be enjoyed as stand-alone books -- no need to have read any others.
I liked hearing part of the story from the perspective of the missing kitten, especially as it pertains to solving the mystery. I also felt like there was enough going on to keep the story progressing without losing pace.
I do wish that the author had written more history into the book, so as to give readers with little background knowledge more context for the resolution.
December 6, 2025
Three Bengal Kittens by Philipp Schott continues the story of Veterinarian Peter Bannerman, his challenging brother Sam and, of course, his faithful dog Pippen. This time, Sam has found a dead body along with three Bengal kittens. When Sam is accused of the murder, Peter and Pippen come to the rescue and chaos ensues. With the help of Peter's brother in law, wife Laura and various other characters, they take care of the kittens and solve the murder. This is another fun addition to the series.
November 4, 2025
This is the fourth book in the series; I’ve read three of them and loved them all. In this book, which could also be a stand-alone, the story was great and I thought the character development was excellent for the returning and new characters. I continue to love the settings and the clever writing. Thank you to Netgalley and ECW Press for the advance reader copy.
May 1, 2026
I just love Philipp Schott and will read anything he writes, be it fiction or non-fiction. His Dr. Bannerman mysteries are such fun and I love the heavy inclusion of animals in his stories, particularly the protagonist's dog, Pippin. This one felt a little more predictable to me than the others, though I did enjoy the introduction of Dr. Bannerman's brother as both a new character and a suspect.
May 4, 2026
Excellent! I especially enjoyed the part of the narrative from a kitten's perspective :)
May 7, 2026
Another successfully quirky tale of Dr. Bannerman! I look forward to his next Manitoba adventure.
May 10, 2026
Really liking Philipp Schott was excited to hear there's a 5th book
Did Not Finish
May 13, 2026First audiobook I ever listened too, DNF ~1 hour in. Did not like the prose (heard “crazy Karen” or something similar and knew this just wasn’t for me)
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