What do you think?
Rate this book
Cat Cafe Mystery #10
Purranormal Activity
304 pages, ebook
First published July 28, 2026
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 78 reviews
August 21, 2026
Cozy? ☑️
Cute? ☑️
Cool? ☑️
Cats? ☑️
First of all, this book has a great cover! I love the Halloween look and feel to it. 39 years ago, my husband and I were married on Halloween. It's always had a special place in my heart.
Well written with an interesting, even delightful, cast of characters.
A nice mystery, which isn't super simple to figure out exactly whodunnit.
Seasoned with a dash of the "Purranormal" for fun.
Heck even a ghost cat! (Is he or isn't he? I'm not telling.
I hope you pick this one up and give it a try. I also hope you love it like I did.
Happy reading friends! May all your books be 5 stars!!
*As always this is just my opinion.
You may have a different experience/point of view, with any book I review. Please read and judge for yourself.
Thank you for reading!
*I gratefully received this book from the publisher and the author in exchange for my honest review.
Gratefully, many thanks to both!
Cute? ☑️
Cool? ☑️
Cats? ☑️
First of all, this book has a great cover! I love the Halloween look and feel to it. 39 years ago, my husband and I were married on Halloween. It's always had a special place in my heart.
Well written with an interesting, even delightful, cast of characters.
A nice mystery, which isn't super simple to figure out exactly whodunnit.
Seasoned with a dash of the "Purranormal" for fun.
Heck even a ghost cat! (Is he or isn't he? I'm not telling.
I hope you pick this one up and give it a try. I also hope you love it like I did.
Happy reading friends! May all your books be 5 stars!!
*As always this is just my opinion.
You may have a different experience/point of view, with any book I review. Please read and judge for yourself.
Thank you for reading!
*I gratefully received this book from the publisher and the author in exchange for my honest review.
Gratefully, many thanks to both!
July 31, 2026
JJ’s House of Purrs is trying out a new mobile cat cafe new mobile cat café. The latest gig is for a child's birthday party, but it's not for any ordinary customer. Maddie's mother’s childhood best friend Olivia has returned to the island for the first time in decades after a family tragedy drove them away. Forty years ago Olivia’s Aunt Delia vanished without a trace. Her disappearance was never solved, and the family house has been abandoned ever since. Maddie and her Mom are curious and excited to visit the house, but when they get there they find Olivia dead.
There is an eerie vibe to the house with a potential ghost cat adding to it. The moments leading up to finding Olivia are suspenseful. Things slow down after that and the book has a slow pace overall. The cold case is interesting and things wrap up in a sad way but it matches the moodiness of the mystery.
It took a while to get through this because of the pace and there are a lot of discussions between characters. Maddie's grandfather deserves more credit. Purranormal Activity is well written and thought out. Mystery fans and cat lovers will appreciate all the details.
3.5 stars
Thank you to St. Martin's Press for the eARC!
There is an eerie vibe to the house with a potential ghost cat adding to it. The moments leading up to finding Olivia are suspenseful. Things slow down after that and the book has a slow pace overall. The cold case is interesting and things wrap up in a sad way but it matches the moodiness of the mystery.
It took a while to get through this because of the pace and there are a lot of discussions between characters. Maddie's grandfather deserves more credit. Purranormal Activity is well written and thought out. Mystery fans and cat lovers will appreciate all the details.
3.5 stars
Thank you to St. Martin's Press for the eARC!
July 7, 2026
I liked Purranormal Activity a lot! We follow Maddie, a cat cafe owner, as she goes to stake out a house where she’ll be hosting a party, but when no one’s home she follows a fluffy white cat who seems to be leading her to something. Unfortunately, that something is the body of the homeowner in a hidden room.
I liked all of the characters in Purranormal Activity, they’re all involved in solving the mystery and they’re a very close knit family which is always cute. I also really liked that they just hang out with cats all the time and that one of the biggest clues to the murder was a Ghost Cat that’s famous on the island.
This was very well written and doesn’t give you seven dramatic red herrings just to surprise you with a murder suspect that shocks you, it’s a very classic mystery that you can follow and I highly recommend. I’ll also definitely be reading the others because I didn’t realize this was book 10 😅
Thank you to NetGalley and St. Martin’s Press for the opportunity to read this ARC!
I liked all of the characters in Purranormal Activity, they’re all involved in solving the mystery and they’re a very close knit family which is always cute. I also really liked that they just hang out with cats all the time and that one of the biggest clues to the murder was a Ghost Cat that’s famous on the island.
This was very well written and doesn’t give you seven dramatic red herrings just to surprise you with a murder suspect that shocks you, it’s a very classic mystery that you can follow and I highly recommend. I’ll also definitely be reading the others because I didn’t realize this was book 10 😅
Thank you to NetGalley and St. Martin’s Press for the opportunity to read this ARC!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Maddie is delighted when her mother's best friend from decades ago calls to make an appointment for Maddie's JJ's House of Purrs to host a cat birthday party for her granddaughter. When they drive out to Olivia McAllister's family home, the Mermaid Cottage, however, Maddie finds Olivia dead. To add to the mystery, she finds the body in a hidden room with the help of a, oh, you guessed it, cat. Only, this cat is different. How different Maddie will find out as the story unfurls. '
As it turns out, that's not to only mystery connected to Mermaid Cottage. Seems that Olivia' s family moved away suddenly decades ago and no one seems to have heard from them sense. Olivia's aunt had just gone missing and the police were waved away from the case for reasons that seem odd but, okay. What even brought Olivia back with her daughter, Tess, and grand-daughter Piper? Maddie finds Piper alone, playing on the nearby beach and oblivious to the drama at the house, but there's no sign on Tess. She she's up at the police station but only after the worried ex-husband has showed up. Where was she? This is where Maddie's sleuth mind begins, well, sleuthing and a host of suspects emerge. I liked that while not completely cautious, after all this is a cozy mystery, she's also not to stupid to live. That's TSTL for those not familiar with text shorthand. I know I'm woefully behind knowing it all, so no pointing fingers. Grin. In any case, suspects are many, including a quirky young woman who shows up claiming a plan to start a, get this, cat party shop. Uh, Maddie knows competition isn't in itself bad but is astonished, especially when it appears this woman might be a suspect, too.
That's about all the teasers I'll share. The regulars are well-fleshed out and likable, both human and feline. You'll learn more about the various characters and suspects as the book goes along and although there are quite a few characters, the author's ability to flesh them out for us helps keep them straight. The small town on Daybreak Island is quirky and everyone seems to know everyone else and their business, and the pace was steady despite diversions like mystery cats and their potential history, and you get two mysteries, not just one, to solve. Nope, didn't know until the big reveal which seemed almost calmly done. Again, kudos to Maddie for her ability to not freak out and remember to use the tools in hand's reach to help nail whodunit. There's humor, too, and I loved the description and manner of her cafe manager who is far fonder of cats than people. The touch of purranormal was just right, too, allowing readers to ponder the likelihood of a ghost cat without quite discarding it no matter what their mind was telling them. In other words, fun. Thanks #StMartin'sPress - #MinotaurBooks for the early peek while allowing us to get to know those surrounding Maddie's life better. JJ deserves some virtual treats at least for being such a good babysitter. Grin.
As it turns out, that's not to only mystery connected to Mermaid Cottage. Seems that Olivia' s family moved away suddenly decades ago and no one seems to have heard from them sense. Olivia's aunt had just gone missing and the police were waved away from the case for reasons that seem odd but, okay. What even brought Olivia back with her daughter, Tess, and grand-daughter Piper? Maddie finds Piper alone, playing on the nearby beach and oblivious to the drama at the house, but there's no sign on Tess. She she's up at the police station but only after the worried ex-husband has showed up. Where was she? This is where Maddie's sleuth mind begins, well, sleuthing and a host of suspects emerge. I liked that while not completely cautious, after all this is a cozy mystery, she's also not to stupid to live. That's TSTL for those not familiar with text shorthand. I know I'm woefully behind knowing it all, so no pointing fingers. Grin. In any case, suspects are many, including a quirky young woman who shows up claiming a plan to start a, get this, cat party shop. Uh, Maddie knows competition isn't in itself bad but is astonished, especially when it appears this woman might be a suspect, too.
That's about all the teasers I'll share. The regulars are well-fleshed out and likable, both human and feline. You'll learn more about the various characters and suspects as the book goes along and although there are quite a few characters, the author's ability to flesh them out for us helps keep them straight. The small town on Daybreak Island is quirky and everyone seems to know everyone else and their business, and the pace was steady despite diversions like mystery cats and their potential history, and you get two mysteries, not just one, to solve. Nope, didn't know until the big reveal which seemed almost calmly done. Again, kudos to Maddie for her ability to not freak out and remember to use the tools in hand's reach to help nail whodunit. There's humor, too, and I loved the description and manner of her cafe manager who is far fonder of cats than people. The touch of purranormal was just right, too, allowing readers to ponder the likelihood of a ghost cat without quite discarding it no matter what their mind was telling them. In other words, fun. Thanks #StMartin'sPress - #MinotaurBooks for the early peek while allowing us to get to know those surrounding Maddie's life better. JJ deserves some virtual treats at least for being such a good babysitter. Grin.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you to NetGalley and St. Martin's Press for the opportunity to read Purranormal Activity, the latest installment in Cate Conte's cat cafe cozy mystery series. I've read several of these books already and have enjoyed the characters and setting on a fictitious island off the coast of Massachusetts. And, of course, the cats.
I'm not a big fan of paranormal stories, so I was a little apprehensive about the title of this one. But the paranormal element is just a small part of the novel; it has to do with island lore and a "ghost cat" that some people have reported seeing over the years. And Maddie sees it several times.
The story is told in first person from the POV of Maddie, the protagonist, owner of a local cat cafe. The cafe is next door to the family home that Maddie shares with her Grandpa Leo (retired police chief), her boyfriend Lucas, their pets, and her two sisters, one of whom is married to Maddie's business partner, Ethan. Maddie's parents also live nearby on the island, and it's a very close-knit family.
When the story opens, a woman named Olivia McAllister calls to book a mobile cat party for her granddaughter's birthday. It turns out Olivia is an old friend of Maddie's mother, Sophie, and they lost touch just after high school when the McAllister family abruptly left the island, presumably consumed by grief over the disappearance/presumed death of Olivia's Aunt Delia. Delia's home, the McAllister house, has remained empty for years, and the local historian has her eyes on it as a possible museum. No one knew Olivia was back in town, but rumor has it she has plans to turn the house into a bed-and-breakfast.
The next day, Maddie and Sophie head to the McAllister House to meet with Olivia and discuss details for the upcoming party. But when they arrive, she's nowhere to be found, and her four-year-old granddaughter, Piper, is playing on the beach by herself. The front door is open, so Maddie and Sophie go inside; soon, Maddie finds Olivia's dead body in a secret room.
By now, Maddie has a pretty good relationship with the local police, but in this case, they don't want her help solving the crime. The current police chief has ordered hands off the powerful McAllister family, and they even try to pin the murder on Sophie. The warning to stay away doesn't keep Maddie and Grandpa Leo from conducting their own investigation.
Suspects abound, but each time they eliminate one, the police grow more suspicious of Sophie.
Not only does Maddie find the real killer, but she is instrumental in solving the cold case of Delia's disappearance.
There are a lot of characters, as tends to happen in a long-running series, but the author provides enough backstory and relationship explanations for a new reader to follow the plot.
This was a well-constructed mystery which I recommend for readers who enjoy cozies and cats.
I'm not a big fan of paranormal stories, so I was a little apprehensive about the title of this one. But the paranormal element is just a small part of the novel; it has to do with island lore and a "ghost cat" that some people have reported seeing over the years. And Maddie sees it several times.
The story is told in first person from the POV of Maddie, the protagonist, owner of a local cat cafe. The cafe is next door to the family home that Maddie shares with her Grandpa Leo (retired police chief), her boyfriend Lucas, their pets, and her two sisters, one of whom is married to Maddie's business partner, Ethan. Maddie's parents also live nearby on the island, and it's a very close-knit family.
When the story opens, a woman named Olivia McAllister calls to book a mobile cat party for her granddaughter's birthday. It turns out Olivia is an old friend of Maddie's mother, Sophie, and they lost touch just after high school when the McAllister family abruptly left the island, presumably consumed by grief over the disappearance/presumed death of Olivia's Aunt Delia. Delia's home, the McAllister house, has remained empty for years, and the local historian has her eyes on it as a possible museum. No one knew Olivia was back in town, but rumor has it she has plans to turn the house into a bed-and-breakfast.
The next day, Maddie and Sophie head to the McAllister House to meet with Olivia and discuss details for the upcoming party. But when they arrive, she's nowhere to be found, and her four-year-old granddaughter, Piper, is playing on the beach by herself. The front door is open, so Maddie and Sophie go inside; soon, Maddie finds Olivia's dead body in a secret room.
By now, Maddie has a pretty good relationship with the local police, but in this case, they don't want her help solving the crime. The current police chief has ordered hands off the powerful McAllister family, and they even try to pin the murder on Sophie. The warning to stay away doesn't keep Maddie and Grandpa Leo from conducting their own investigation.
Suspects abound, but each time they eliminate one, the police grow more suspicious of Sophie.
Not only does Maddie find the real killer, but she is instrumental in solving the cold case of Delia's disappearance.
There are a lot of characters, as tends to happen in a long-running series, but the author provides enough backstory and relationship explanations for a new reader to follow the plot.
This was a well-constructed mystery which I recommend for readers who enjoy cozies and cats.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Special thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for a free, electronic ARC of this novel received in exchange for an honest review.
Expected publication date: July 28, 2026
Cate Conte’s “Purranormal Activity: A Cat Cafe Mystery” is the tenth novel in her “Cat Café Mystery” series of novels. In this installment, cat café owner Maddie James is not only running her cat café/cat adoption centre, but she’s also decided to take it one step farther and take her cat show on the road by adding a mobile component to her business. She’s asked to plan a party for the granddaughter of Olivia McAllister, her mother’s childhood best friend but during a visit to Olivia’s house to see the space she finds Olivia, beaten to death in a secret room in her own home. Devastated for her mother, and curious, Maddie looks at the citizens of her tiny island community in a new light- who could possibly hate Olivia enough to kill her?
I am a complete newbie to both Conte and to the “Cat Café Mystery” series, so jumping in at book ten was a risk. But it had cats, and a ghost story or two, so I took the chance. With “Activity”, like many other mystery series of its kind, it is not necessary to read the other novels in the collection in order to keep up. No doubt, the other novels would’ve provided details on the intricacies of the characters and their relationships, but the mystery story line in Activity” was completely unconnected (or so I assume), so no background knowledge was needed.
Maddie is the protagonist and the setting is Daybreak Island, a small island community where everyone knows everyone else and nothing stays secret for long. Maddie, her mother, her grandfather, her partner and a plethora of Maddie’s employees and friends are all residents, which cements the small-town feel and adds to the suspect list.
“Activity” is a murder mystery but another mystery lies below that one- is a sighting of the infamous “Ghost Cat” really indicative that trouble is afoot? Both mysteries are solved by the end of this novel, but I loved the ghost cat urban legend and the adorable kittens that frolic throughout the plot. The ending was unexpected and surprising, but it summed up the plot line perfectly, ensuring all the t’s were crossed and the i’s dotted.
Conte’s “Activity” is a cozy read perfect for feline-loving readers who love a side of ghost sightings with their mystery solving.
Expected publication date: July 28, 2026
Cate Conte’s “Purranormal Activity: A Cat Cafe Mystery” is the tenth novel in her “Cat Café Mystery” series of novels. In this installment, cat café owner Maddie James is not only running her cat café/cat adoption centre, but she’s also decided to take it one step farther and take her cat show on the road by adding a mobile component to her business. She’s asked to plan a party for the granddaughter of Olivia McAllister, her mother’s childhood best friend but during a visit to Olivia’s house to see the space she finds Olivia, beaten to death in a secret room in her own home. Devastated for her mother, and curious, Maddie looks at the citizens of her tiny island community in a new light- who could possibly hate Olivia enough to kill her?
I am a complete newbie to both Conte and to the “Cat Café Mystery” series, so jumping in at book ten was a risk. But it had cats, and a ghost story or two, so I took the chance. With “Activity”, like many other mystery series of its kind, it is not necessary to read the other novels in the collection in order to keep up. No doubt, the other novels would’ve provided details on the intricacies of the characters and their relationships, but the mystery story line in Activity” was completely unconnected (or so I assume), so no background knowledge was needed.
Maddie is the protagonist and the setting is Daybreak Island, a small island community where everyone knows everyone else and nothing stays secret for long. Maddie, her mother, her grandfather, her partner and a plethora of Maddie’s employees and friends are all residents, which cements the small-town feel and adds to the suspect list.
“Activity” is a murder mystery but another mystery lies below that one- is a sighting of the infamous “Ghost Cat” really indicative that trouble is afoot? Both mysteries are solved by the end of this novel, but I loved the ghost cat urban legend and the adorable kittens that frolic throughout the plot. The ending was unexpected and surprising, but it summed up the plot line perfectly, ensuring all the t’s were crossed and the i’s dotted.
Conte’s “Activity” is a cozy read perfect for feline-loving readers who love a side of ghost sightings with their mystery solving.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
In the tenth installment of the Cat Cafe Mystery series, Maddie James is busier than ever on Daybreak Island with her cat café, JJ’s House of Purrs, and a shiny new mobile cat café keeping her on her toes with on-site parties. When her mom’s old best friend returns to the island for the first time since Maddie’s aunt Delia vanished decades ago and asks Maddie to plan a birthday party, things take a spooky turn. A mysterious white-and-gray cat leads Maddie and her mom to a hidden room in Delia’s old house—where they discover a body. What follows is an investigation linking a fresh murder to a long-ago disappearance, complete with island legends, secrets, and plenty of feline assistance.
I’ve genuinely enjoyed Cate Conte’s previous books in this series—the charming small-town setting, the delightful cat characters, and Maddie’s sleuthing always made for light, fun reads. This one had all the cozy ingredients: quirky locals, a touch of the supernatural (or at least the suggestion of it), and cats galore. The mobile café concept was a cute addition, and the dual-timeline mystery had potential.
Unfortunately, this particular novel just didn’t click with me the way the earlier ones did. The pacing felt a bit off, and while the mystery was good, it didn’t hook me or deliver the satisfying “aha!” moment I’ve come to expect. The characters, usually so endearing, felt a little flat this time around. I found myself skimming sections rather than being fully immersed.It could be that I’m simply outgrowing the cozy mystery genre for now—life’s been busy, and my reading tastes may be shifting toward something with a bit more depth or different vibes. That’s no fault of the author; Conte clearly knows her audience and delivers another solid entry for fans of the series. If you’re still deep in your cozy phase and love cats + light mysteries, you’ll probably enjoy this one more than I did. Three stars.
I was invited to read a DRC from St. Martin's Press through NetGalley. This review is my own and reflects my honest thoughts and opinions.
I’ve genuinely enjoyed Cate Conte’s previous books in this series—the charming small-town setting, the delightful cat characters, and Maddie’s sleuthing always made for light, fun reads. This one had all the cozy ingredients: quirky locals, a touch of the supernatural (or at least the suggestion of it), and cats galore. The mobile café concept was a cute addition, and the dual-timeline mystery had potential.
Unfortunately, this particular novel just didn’t click with me the way the earlier ones did. The pacing felt a bit off, and while the mystery was good, it didn’t hook me or deliver the satisfying “aha!” moment I’ve come to expect. The characters, usually so endearing, felt a little flat this time around. I found myself skimming sections rather than being fully immersed.It could be that I’m simply outgrowing the cozy mystery genre for now—life’s been busy, and my reading tastes may be shifting toward something with a bit more depth or different vibes. That’s no fault of the author; Conte clearly knows her audience and delivers another solid entry for fans of the series. If you’re still deep in your cozy phase and love cats + light mysteries, you’ll probably enjoy this one more than I did. Three stars.
I was invited to read a DRC from St. Martin's Press through NetGalley. This review is my own and reflects my honest thoughts and opinions.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Maddie's mom had a best friend growing up on the island who disappeared, along with her entire family, after her aunt vanished under mysterious circumstances. When Maddie's mom finds out her friend, Olivia, is back in Daybreak Harbor she's thrilled and can't wait to see her again. But the women will not get their happy reunion. When Maddie and Sophie go to Olivia's house they find her inside a hidden room, dead. Can Maddie figure out who killed Olivia before the killer strikes again?
OK. The cover of this book? Chef's kiss! Haunted house, ghostly cat, bats silhouetted by a full moon, jack-o'-lanterns... I knew I would love this book. It's not as Halloween-y as I thought it would be, but that didn't matter. There was so much going on! A rival has started a cat party service, the victim's daughter is clearly lying about something, there's a sweet little girl you will fall in love with, and then there's all the usual characters that I've come to love including Maddie herself, Lucas, Grandpa, and Kristen. There are so many twists and so many suspects and so many clues, I felt like I had two people pegged and it turned out to be someone else entirely!
I felt like I'd been in a bit of a cozy slump lately, not finding the perfect read and feeling like maybe I needed a break from the genre but this book pulled me right back in. I've read this series completely out of order and I actually still haven't read books 4, 5 and 6 and I think book 8. Although I do recommend reading the series in order, you're fine not doing that with this series because although the characters do grow and develop and there are some changes in relationships, I've never felt like I was lost in the story even as I skipped back and forth. But if you have the opportunity, read them in order. I think if I did that this might be my favorite series!
Thank you to Cate Conte, Minotaur Books, and NetGalley for providing me with an ARC.
OK. The cover of this book? Chef's kiss! Haunted house, ghostly cat, bats silhouetted by a full moon, jack-o'-lanterns... I knew I would love this book. It's not as Halloween-y as I thought it would be, but that didn't matter. There was so much going on! A rival has started a cat party service, the victim's daughter is clearly lying about something, there's a sweet little girl you will fall in love with, and then there's all the usual characters that I've come to love including Maddie herself, Lucas, Grandpa, and Kristen. There are so many twists and so many suspects and so many clues, I felt like I had two people pegged and it turned out to be someone else entirely!
I felt like I'd been in a bit of a cozy slump lately, not finding the perfect read and feeling like maybe I needed a break from the genre but this book pulled me right back in. I've read this series completely out of order and I actually still haven't read books 4, 5 and 6 and I think book 8. Although I do recommend reading the series in order, you're fine not doing that with this series because although the characters do grow and develop and there are some changes in relationships, I've never felt like I was lost in the story even as I skipped back and forth. But if you have the opportunity, read them in order. I think if I did that this might be my favorite series!
Thank you to Cate Conte, Minotaur Books, and NetGalley for providing me with an ARC.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I have always enjoyed this series, I am a serious cat person! I enjoy catching up with Maddie, Lucas, JJ, Grampa Leo, all the family, and the adorable cats in the cafe. This one, though, may actually be one of my favorites. We have an old mystery, a new mystery, and a Ghost Cat! Things get serious quickly. Maddie gets a last-minute request for her new cat cafe truck for a double birthday party. Although they already have a party scheduled, Maddie adds this one as the woman begs and offers her triple the regular price. When she mentions this to her mom, it turns out that the woman was her mother's high school best friend who left the island with her whole family after the mysterious disappearance of her aunt 40 years before! What was Olivia doing back on the island? Did she have plans for Mermaid Cottage? Would she be interested in reconnecting with Maddie's mom? When Maddie and her mom go to check the space for the cat truck at Mermaid Cottage, they find the front door open, signs of breakfast, and a young child's sandal, but no people. Following a cat, Maddie goes into a second floor office. When she reaches out to pat the cat on a shelf, she touches a book that triggers the opening of a door into a secret room. Although she's fascinated, her surprise turns to fear when she discovers her clients bloody body on the floor. What is going on here? Where are the client's daughter and granddaughter? Does this present mystery tie into her aunt's disappearance? What do you mean the family doesn't have a cat? You will want to hang with Maddie as she tries to figure out this multi generational mystery and find the mystery cat Puck! Thanks so much to #Netgally, #Minotaur, and the author for the opportunity to catch up with JJ and company! #Purranormal Activity #CatCafeMysteries #CateCote #bookreview #bookideas #retiredreader
August 2, 2026
Maddie James’ is doing well with her cat cafe on Daybreak Island. When Olivia McAllister books an event at the cafe for her granddaughter, Maddie wants to make sure everything is perfect. Olivia happens to be an old childhood friend of her mother’s which makes it even more important.
Maddie and her mother head over to Olivia’s house to finalize the arrangements. They are more than stunned when a white and gray cat shows Maddie to a secret room. Sadly, she finds Olivia there and she is very much dead. Maddie can’t help wondering if Olivia’s death is connected to her aunt’s disappearance 40 years ago. And where did the mysterious cat go?
Maddie and her grandfather set out to find a killer. Maybe even solve an old cold case while they are at it.
The characters are well written, and the story moves at a fast pace. I love Maddie’s relationship with her family, especially her grandfather. They make quite the sleuthing pair. Of course, I’m a huge fan of the setting - a cat cafe? Yes, I’m here for it. I wish I owned one.
The author threw in many potential suspects. I kept changing my mind throughout the book about whodunit. I was captivated until the end. The cold case connected to the current case made it even more intriguing.
This is the tenth book in the series. It’s always fun to revisit favorite cozy characters and towns. I previously have only read books #1-4. I don’t normally jump ahead in a series, but I couldn’t resist this one. I’m so glad because it’s another good entry into this series. I do vow to eventually catch up and read the ones I missed.
Disclosure: I voluntarily reviewed a free Advance Reader Copy of this book from NetGalley and the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own.
Maddie and her mother head over to Olivia’s house to finalize the arrangements. They are more than stunned when a white and gray cat shows Maddie to a secret room. Sadly, she finds Olivia there and she is very much dead. Maddie can’t help wondering if Olivia’s death is connected to her aunt’s disappearance 40 years ago. And where did the mysterious cat go?
Maddie and her grandfather set out to find a killer. Maybe even solve an old cold case while they are at it.
The characters are well written, and the story moves at a fast pace. I love Maddie’s relationship with her family, especially her grandfather. They make quite the sleuthing pair. Of course, I’m a huge fan of the setting - a cat cafe? Yes, I’m here for it. I wish I owned one.
The author threw in many potential suspects. I kept changing my mind throughout the book about whodunit. I was captivated until the end. The cold case connected to the current case made it even more intriguing.
This is the tenth book in the series. It’s always fun to revisit favorite cozy characters and towns. I previously have only read books #1-4. I don’t normally jump ahead in a series, but I couldn’t resist this one. I’m so glad because it’s another good entry into this series. I do vow to eventually catch up and read the ones I missed.
Disclosure: I voluntarily reviewed a free Advance Reader Copy of this book from NetGalley and the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
The gist: Café owner Maddie gets a tall order for a kitty‑themed birthday bash on a tight turnaround. What rich people want, rich people get, am I right? Anyway, the rich lady in question is none other than Olivia McAllister—Maddie’s mother’s childhood BFF, who vanished inexplicably when her family blew out of town after the aunt went missing. That cold‑case mystery is about to be reopened once Maddie and JJ (her ginger kitty sidekick) get on the case! And she’d better get to the bottom of it quickly, because her mother lands in hot water when Olivia ends up dead. Yikes.
What I liked: As always, I loved being swept away to the cozy seaside island. The focal point of the mystery, Mermaid Cottage, is the purrrrrrfect setting for a Halloween‑themed story—with a ghostly kitty and a hidden room to boot.
What irked me: I like my sleuths scrappy and resourceful, but Maddie seems a little too well-connected, with her family of big shots and a lead detective practically in her pocket. I’d also love more scenes in the cat café, which is the main reason I read this series. More kitties, please!
Thoughts on the mystery: I love a good cold‑case mystery, so this is one of my favorite installments thus far. There were plenty of suspects to keep me puzzled, including Olivia's enigmatic daughter, a sketchy environmentalist charlatan, a quirky local historian, and an odd girl who’s trying to copyCAT Maddie’s business. Sorry—I couldn’t help myself.
Overall: This is a solid whodunnit that kept me guessing until the end. It’s a quick, fun beach read for those of us who need an escape from the reality of our falling democracy.
Thank you, Netgalley and St. Martins Press for the free ARC!
What I liked: As always, I loved being swept away to the cozy seaside island. The focal point of the mystery, Mermaid Cottage, is the purrrrrrfect setting for a Halloween‑themed story—with a ghostly kitty and a hidden room to boot.
What irked me: I like my sleuths scrappy and resourceful, but Maddie seems a little too well-connected, with her family of big shots and a lead detective practically in her pocket. I’d also love more scenes in the cat café, which is the main reason I read this series. More kitties, please!
Thoughts on the mystery: I love a good cold‑case mystery, so this is one of my favorite installments thus far. There were plenty of suspects to keep me puzzled, including Olivia's enigmatic daughter, a sketchy environmentalist charlatan, a quirky local historian, and an odd girl who’s trying to copyCAT Maddie’s business. Sorry—I couldn’t help myself.
Overall: This is a solid whodunnit that kept me guessing until the end. It’s a quick, fun beach read for those of us who need an escape from the reality of our falling democracy.
Thank you, Netgalley and St. Martins Press for the free ARC!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I received this one from the publisher via netgalley and I did research it to find it's book 10. I usually won't jump into a series that late in the game but cat cafe and paranormal lured me in. I wasn't disappointed. I didn't know who anyone was but it wasn't hard to figure it out. Maddie is our amateur sleuth. She's the owner of the cat cafe with the help of several people including her mother. Her grandfather was the chief of the police.
It opens with Maddie getting a request for a cat birthday party for a 4 year old girl, Piper and for her mother Tess. It's being paid for by Olivia the grandmother who a) owns a historic home on the island of great importance b) was Maddie's mom's best friend but then after Olivia's aunt Delila disappeared 20 some years ago, Olivia disappeared and her wealthy family stopped the investigation.
Guess who ends up dead? Does it have to do with Delila's disappearance? Does it have to do with the fact that Olivia wants her home to be a B&NB and not a museum like some of the Islanders want? Does it have to do with her blacksheep brother? What does Puck the Ghost Cat have to do with things?
I thought the secrets and clues were dispensed nicely. Maggie doesn't bull over the police or make too many TSTL choices which you can see a lot in cozies. I liked her, the cat cafe and the surrounding characters.
The one sour note for me was the fact that everyone on the island knows about the ghost cat but Maddie. They try to explain it away as the lonely cat upset her as a child. Okay fine but she's an adult She lives on this island (okay she's come back) so it's nearly impossible to believe she never heard of Puck and it didn't add anything to the story to have her not know.
It opens with Maddie getting a request for a cat birthday party for a 4 year old girl, Piper and for her mother Tess. It's being paid for by Olivia the grandmother who a) owns a historic home on the island of great importance b) was Maddie's mom's best friend but then after Olivia's aunt Delila disappeared 20 some years ago, Olivia disappeared and her wealthy family stopped the investigation.
Guess who ends up dead? Does it have to do with Delila's disappearance? Does it have to do with the fact that Olivia wants her home to be a B&NB and not a museum like some of the Islanders want? Does it have to do with her blacksheep brother? What does Puck the Ghost Cat have to do with things?
I thought the secrets and clues were dispensed nicely. Maggie doesn't bull over the police or make too many TSTL choices which you can see a lot in cozies. I liked her, the cat cafe and the surrounding characters.
The one sour note for me was the fact that everyone on the island knows about the ghost cat but Maddie. They try to explain it away as the lonely cat upset her as a child. Okay fine but she's an adult She lives on this island (okay she's come back) so it's nearly impossible to believe she never heard of Puck and it didn't add anything to the story to have her not know.
August 20, 2026
Cate Conte’s Purranormal Activity is a cozy mystery filled with cats, secrets, old wounds, and a touch of the supernatural. The story follows Maddie James, the owner of JJ’s House of Purrs on Daybreak Island, who is busy running her cat café while also managing a new mobile cat café that brings cat-themed parties to customers. Her routine takes an unexpected turn when Olivia McAllister, an old childhood friend of Maddie’s mother, returns to the island after being away for decades. Olivia asks Maddie to organize a birthday party for her granddaughter, giving Maddie and her mother a reason to visit the old McAllister family home.
The visit quickly becomes disturbing when Maddie discovers Olivia’s body hidden inside a secret room. A mysterious white-and-gray cat seems to lead Maddie to the discovery and then disappears, making her wonder whether it could be the legendary ghost cat said to haunt the island. As Maddie begins looking into the murder, she discovers that Olivia’s return is connected to another mystery: forty years earlier, Olivia’s aunt Delia vanished without a trace, causing the family to leave the island. The two cases gradually begin to look connected, and Maddie realizes that someone may be determined to keep the past buried.
With help from her friends, family, and her beloved cat JJ, Maddie follows clues through old family secrets, possible motives, and suspicious relationships. The story combines the warmth and humor of a cat café with the suspense of a murder investigation and just enough paranormal mystery to keep things intriguing. Ultimately, Purranormal Activity is a charming tale about uncovering long-hidden truths, seeking justice, and discovering that sometimes even a mysterious cat can help point the way.
The visit quickly becomes disturbing when Maddie discovers Olivia’s body hidden inside a secret room. A mysterious white-and-gray cat seems to lead Maddie to the discovery and then disappears, making her wonder whether it could be the legendary ghost cat said to haunt the island. As Maddie begins looking into the murder, she discovers that Olivia’s return is connected to another mystery: forty years earlier, Olivia’s aunt Delia vanished without a trace, causing the family to leave the island. The two cases gradually begin to look connected, and Maddie realizes that someone may be determined to keep the past buried.
With help from her friends, family, and her beloved cat JJ, Maddie follows clues through old family secrets, possible motives, and suspicious relationships. The story combines the warmth and humor of a cat café with the suspense of a murder investigation and just enough paranormal mystery to keep things intriguing. Ultimately, Purranormal Activity is a charming tale about uncovering long-hidden truths, seeking justice, and discovering that sometimes even a mysterious cat can help point the way.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I received an ARC through NetGalley - this is my honest feedback. Thank you to Macmillan Publishers
I have not read any of the previous Cat Café Mystery series, so I am new to the characters. I did feel that I would have had a better understanding of the various characters if I had been familiar with their histories. Purranormal Activities blended cozy charm, lovable feline characters, and an intriguing mystery. I found it to be a thoroughly enjoyable read and read it within 24 hours of starting. Set on Daybreak Island, the story follows cat café owner Maddie James as she finds herself investigating a murder connected to a decades-old disappearance and a local ghost cat legend.
The mystery is well-paced, with many twists and red herrings that keep readers guessing until the end. The author balances suspense with heartwarming moments, making the book feel both exciting and comforting. The island setting is beautifully described, creating the perfect backdrop for a cozy mystery.
One of the highlights is the cast of characters, especially Maddie and her mischievous cat, JJ, whose antics provide humor and warmth throughout the story. The addition of the ghostly cat legend adds just the right touch of the paranormal without overwhelming the cozy atmosphere.
Fans of cats, small-town settings, and clever mysteries will find Purranormal Activity impossible to put down. Whether you're a longtime follower of the series or picking it up for the first time, this book offers an entertaining mystery with memorable characters and plenty of feline charm. Cate Conte once again delivers a satisfying cozy mystery that leaves readers eager for the next adventure.
I have not read any of the previous Cat Café Mystery series, so I am new to the characters. I did feel that I would have had a better understanding of the various characters if I had been familiar with their histories. Purranormal Activities blended cozy charm, lovable feline characters, and an intriguing mystery. I found it to be a thoroughly enjoyable read and read it within 24 hours of starting. Set on Daybreak Island, the story follows cat café owner Maddie James as she finds herself investigating a murder connected to a decades-old disappearance and a local ghost cat legend.
The mystery is well-paced, with many twists and red herrings that keep readers guessing until the end. The author balances suspense with heartwarming moments, making the book feel both exciting and comforting. The island setting is beautifully described, creating the perfect backdrop for a cozy mystery.
One of the highlights is the cast of characters, especially Maddie and her mischievous cat, JJ, whose antics provide humor and warmth throughout the story. The addition of the ghostly cat legend adds just the right touch of the paranormal without overwhelming the cozy atmosphere.
Fans of cats, small-town settings, and clever mysteries will find Purranormal Activity impossible to put down. Whether you're a longtime follower of the series or picking it up for the first time, this book offers an entertaining mystery with memorable characters and plenty of feline charm. Cate Conte once again delivers a satisfying cozy mystery that leaves readers eager for the next adventure.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Review of Uncorrected Digital Galley
It’s a busy summer on Daybreak Island for Maddie and JJ’s House of Purrs. They’re booked for on-site cat parties, the new mobile cat café is a big hit, and it’s beginning to look like they will be running nonstop all summer long.
A telephone call from Olivia McAllister catches Maddie by surprise . . . she wants to book a birthday party for her daughter and granddaughter . . . in three days. Maddie agrees, but when she discusses it with her mother, she learns that Olivia used to be her best friend, and that she and her family abruptly left Daybreak Island after her aunt went missing. Maddie’s mother hadn’t heard from her in years.
Does her sudden reappearance mean trouble?
=========
Tenth in the author’s Cat Café Mystery series, readers will find all the expected characters in place. There is sufficient backstory for readers new to this cozy series for the book to be read as a standalone.
Unexpected plot twists and the revelation of long-held secrets keep readers guessing as Maddie tries to solve the mystery surrounding her mother’s friend’s death. Readers will find themselves turning the pages as fast as possible as they try to solve the mystery along with Maddie and JJ!
Readers who enjoy cozy mysteries and cat stories will find much to appreciate in this difficult-to-set-aside tale.
Highly recommended.
I received a free copy of this eBook from St. Martin’s Press / Minotaur Books and NetGalley and am voluntarily leaving this review.
#PurranormalActivity #NetGalley
It’s a busy summer on Daybreak Island for Maddie and JJ’s House of Purrs. They’re booked for on-site cat parties, the new mobile cat café is a big hit, and it’s beginning to look like they will be running nonstop all summer long.
A telephone call from Olivia McAllister catches Maddie by surprise . . . she wants to book a birthday party for her daughter and granddaughter . . . in three days. Maddie agrees, but when she discusses it with her mother, she learns that Olivia used to be her best friend, and that she and her family abruptly left Daybreak Island after her aunt went missing. Maddie’s mother hadn’t heard from her in years.
Does her sudden reappearance mean trouble?
=========
Tenth in the author’s Cat Café Mystery series, readers will find all the expected characters in place. There is sufficient backstory for readers new to this cozy series for the book to be read as a standalone.
Unexpected plot twists and the revelation of long-held secrets keep readers guessing as Maddie tries to solve the mystery surrounding her mother’s friend’s death. Readers will find themselves turning the pages as fast as possible as they try to solve the mystery along with Maddie and JJ!
Readers who enjoy cozy mysteries and cat stories will find much to appreciate in this difficult-to-set-aside tale.
Highly recommended.
I received a free copy of this eBook from St. Martin’s Press / Minotaur Books and NetGalley and am voluntarily leaving this review.
#PurranormalActivity #NetGalley
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
9bA Cat Mystery Café Mystery book #10
A Cozy mystery
I enjoyed my first experience reading this author and her charming story set off the coast of New England which features Maddie the cat café owner and JJ the cute little fur ball. I had not trouble fitting in at this stage although I am deeply curious …. What excitement did I miss not having read the previous installments….
This story in a few words:
Maddie recent customer booked her for a birthday party featuring her adorable kitties. Olivia, the customer was Maddie’s mother high school friend who had left the island a long time ago, astonished to see her back they both head over to her home. When they arrived, the door was ajar and a gorgeous long-haired white and gray cat lead them to a secret room where they found Olivia dead in a pool of blood…….and the mystery kicks off…..enjoy.
My thoughts:
This is a fun story full of charming characters and the touch of a ghost cat added intrigue and speculation. In a few words, this story is surrounded by a close-knit community assembling together in order to solve a murder, all this while cats are set free to roam around helping humans in their quest. Quite a deferent spin.
It is a fast read keeping a steady pace throughout and is well said to keep us engaged till the very last page. No dramatic red herring to shocks us just smooth sailing from start to finish. The touch of purranormal was at a minimum just purrrrrrrrrrrfect.
My thanks to St-Martin’s Press and Netgalley for this ARC
A Cozy mystery
I enjoyed my first experience reading this author and her charming story set off the coast of New England which features Maddie the cat café owner and JJ the cute little fur ball. I had not trouble fitting in at this stage although I am deeply curious …. What excitement did I miss not having read the previous installments….
This story in a few words:
Maddie recent customer booked her for a birthday party featuring her adorable kitties. Olivia, the customer was Maddie’s mother high school friend who had left the island a long time ago, astonished to see her back they both head over to her home. When they arrived, the door was ajar and a gorgeous long-haired white and gray cat lead them to a secret room where they found Olivia dead in a pool of blood…….and the mystery kicks off…..enjoy.
My thoughts:
This is a fun story full of charming characters and the touch of a ghost cat added intrigue and speculation. In a few words, this story is surrounded by a close-knit community assembling together in order to solve a murder, all this while cats are set free to roam around helping humans in their quest. Quite a deferent spin.
It is a fast read keeping a steady pace throughout and is well said to keep us engaged till the very last page. No dramatic red herring to shocks us just smooth sailing from start to finish. The touch of purranormal was at a minimum just purrrrrrrrrrrfect.
My thanks to St-Martin’s Press and Netgalley for this ARC
July 29, 2026
3 1/2 stars. Maddie is booked for a cat-themed birthday party at the Mermaid house, where a woman disappeared 40-years-ago. When she goes to look at the set-up with her mom, who just happened to have been best friends with the woman setting up the party as teenagers but hasn't seen her since, they find the woman dead in a secret room. Who would want a woman dead who hasn't been in the area for almost 40 years? Is it related to the disappearance of the woman's aunt all those decades ago?
It turns out Olivia could upset people with her controlling ways. And there are plenty of people who are lying about knowing about Olivia's return. Is it her brother who wants them to sell the family home for money? The local historian who wants to turn the house into a museum? Her boyfriend she just fired as the rennovator of the house? Or someone else who doesn't want a cold case opened?
This kept me guessing to the end. There are a lot of returning people in the book so it is easier to keep them straight if you have read previous books in the series but it is not necessary to do so to understand the plot which is stand alone. Conte has created good characters that are engaging and you look forward to new developments in their lives. And, of course, don't forget the adorable cats that are just full of personality. This one even has a possible ghost cat that keeps on appearing throughout the story that has a long history on the island.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for an ARC in exchange for an honest opinion.
It turns out Olivia could upset people with her controlling ways. And there are plenty of people who are lying about knowing about Olivia's return. Is it her brother who wants them to sell the family home for money? The local historian who wants to turn the house into a museum? Her boyfriend she just fired as the rennovator of the house? Or someone else who doesn't want a cold case opened?
This kept me guessing to the end. There are a lot of returning people in the book so it is easier to keep them straight if you have read previous books in the series but it is not necessary to do so to understand the plot which is stand alone. Conte has created good characters that are engaging and you look forward to new developments in their lives. And, of course, don't forget the adorable cats that are just full of personality. This one even has a possible ghost cat that keeps on appearing throughout the story that has a long history on the island.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for an ARC in exchange for an honest opinion.
July 28, 2026
Purranormal Activity is book 10 in the "A Cat Cafe Mystery" series and what a fun book it is!
Maddie is asked by her mom's old school best friend, Olivia, to plan a party for her niece. She's happy to do so. She goes to meet with Olivia at the family house that has been empty since her aunt Delia disappeared years ago. , Maddie finds the door open, four year old Piper alone on the beach, and a white and gray cat who leads her to a hidden room and Olivia's body. So, who killed Olivia and why? And is the white and gray cat, Puck, the ghost cat of the island legend? The local police don't want any help on this investigation but Maddie, JJ and crew will be doing their own sleuthing.
Daybreak Island always sounds like a dream location, minus the murders. I love reading about the small town life of the islanders. I'm hoping that Mermaid Cottage makes another appearance in another book. I love to read of abandoned homes being rescued.
The pacing of the book is good. And I do like that the mystery was not too easy to figure out since there were multiple suspects. The characters are easy to get to know so if this is your first book in the series, you should have no problem figuring out who's who. Cats! Can't have enough of them so I especially like the setting for this book. I'm glad that the setting is a cat cafe and a new mobile addition. I can't wait to read the next book in this great series.
Maddie is asked by her mom's old school best friend, Olivia, to plan a party for her niece. She's happy to do so. She goes to meet with Olivia at the family house that has been empty since her aunt Delia disappeared years ago. , Maddie finds the door open, four year old Piper alone on the beach, and a white and gray cat who leads her to a hidden room and Olivia's body. So, who killed Olivia and why? And is the white and gray cat, Puck, the ghost cat of the island legend? The local police don't want any help on this investigation but Maddie, JJ and crew will be doing their own sleuthing.
Daybreak Island always sounds like a dream location, minus the murders. I love reading about the small town life of the islanders. I'm hoping that Mermaid Cottage makes another appearance in another book. I love to read of abandoned homes being rescued.
The pacing of the book is good. And I do like that the mystery was not too easy to figure out since there were multiple suspects. The characters are easy to get to know so if this is your first book in the series, you should have no problem figuring out who's who. Cats! Can't have enough of them so I especially like the setting for this book. I'm glad that the setting is a cat cafe and a new mobile addition. I can't wait to read the next book in this great series.
July 30, 2026
Reading about Maddie, her grandfather and of course JJ, the titular feline head of the cat rescue is always enjoyable.. Maddie has been expanding into parties with her new mobile facility and she is hired by a woman who is willing to pay triple if Maddie can wedge them in for a birthday party for her kitty-crazy granddaughter. When Maddie’s mother learns the identity of the woman she insists on joining Maddie to suss out the logistics. Olivia was her mom’s best friend as a teenager but they lost touch entirely when the family moved off the island mysteriously.
When they arrive at the home, a white and grey cat seems to be leading Maddie to make discoveries including Olivia’s body and Piper, the granddaughter alone on the beach. Maddie is determined to catch the kitty but is shocked to learn this is the famous ghost cat of multiple legends.
There are lots of machinations going on that must be sorted before the killer is revealed but at each step, the ghost cat guides Maddie and JJ. One by one the suspects are exonerated until the villain is revealed. Naturally, the ghost cat is there to make sure justice is served and truths are told.
It is a great series and another entertaining story. If you have not discovered JJ, I suggest you go back to the beginning, although all the books could be standalone. It is just more fun being able to follow the progression of the characters. But like everyone on the island, JJ will be your favourite. Five purrs and two paws up.
When they arrive at the home, a white and grey cat seems to be leading Maddie to make discoveries including Olivia’s body and Piper, the granddaughter alone on the beach. Maddie is determined to catch the kitty but is shocked to learn this is the famous ghost cat of multiple legends.
There are lots of machinations going on that must be sorted before the killer is revealed but at each step, the ghost cat guides Maddie and JJ. One by one the suspects are exonerated until the villain is revealed. Naturally, the ghost cat is there to make sure justice is served and truths are told.
It is a great series and another entertaining story. If you have not discovered JJ, I suggest you go back to the beginning, although all the books could be standalone. It is just more fun being able to follow the progression of the characters. But like everyone on the island, JJ will be your favourite. Five purrs and two paws up.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you St. Martin's Press | Minotaur Books for the ARC!
📖 Purranormal Activity by Cate Conte
🏝 Setting: "Daybreak Island" off of the coast of Massachusetts
~~
"People love that kind of thing- especially the ones who aren't from the East Coast. Stay at the B&B on the ocean with the Ghost Cat and secret rooms? I mean, that's too easy."
~~
An island with multiple mysteries, a murder, and a ghost cat? Yes, please!
This was such a fun, cozy mystery with great characters and an interesting plot. I really liked Maddie's family and friends! (Katrina and her taser 😂)
The murder mystery had a lot of elements to it. Maddie finds Olivia McAllister dead in a hidden room in Olivia's home. Olivia had just recently returned to the island after leaving it nearly 40 years ago when her Aunt Delia went missing.
I enjoyed the suspense and piecing together both puzzles of what happened to Olivia and Delia. I like how the ghost cat added extra mystery to the story!
Also, I have to say that Maddie has an excellent business plan. Cat parties - where people pay her to bring cats to their parties and they get to play with them and learn about rescues and caring for them. It's a win-win. She gets to do what she loves and the cats get some attention! 😁 🐈
I recommend this if you like cozy murder mysteries. This was so good!
📖 Purranormal Activity by Cate Conte
🏝 Setting: "Daybreak Island" off of the coast of Massachusetts
~~
"People love that kind of thing- especially the ones who aren't from the East Coast. Stay at the B&B on the ocean with the Ghost Cat and secret rooms? I mean, that's too easy."
~~
An island with multiple mysteries, a murder, and a ghost cat? Yes, please!
This was such a fun, cozy mystery with great characters and an interesting plot. I really liked Maddie's family and friends! (Katrina and her taser 😂)
The murder mystery had a lot of elements to it. Maddie finds Olivia McAllister dead in a hidden room in Olivia's home. Olivia had just recently returned to the island after leaving it nearly 40 years ago when her Aunt Delia went missing.
I enjoyed the suspense and piecing together both puzzles of what happened to Olivia and Delia. I like how the ghost cat added extra mystery to the story!
Also, I have to say that Maddie has an excellent business plan. Cat parties - where people pay her to bring cats to their parties and they get to play with them and learn about rescues and caring for them. It's a win-win. She gets to do what she loves and the cats get some attention! 😁 🐈
I recommend this if you like cozy murder mysteries. This was so good!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
An engrossing cozy mystery featuring Maddie James and company. Maddie is a co-owner of JJ’s House of Purrs. It’s a popular cat adoption center and cafe. Lately they’ve added another service, a mobile party truck, that travels around Daybreak Island for special library events or children’s birthday parties. Contacted by Olivia McAllister to appear at her granddaughter’s birthday party, she decides to check out her Mermaid Cottage home to determine the ideal spot to set up. And, that’s where the mystery begins.
I loved this adorable cozy with the awesome cat JJ for whom the business is named and Puck the legendary ghost cat who turns up at the most unexpected times. The backstory the author created for Puck is fascinating and Helen, the island historian, is a real hoot. And, you’ve gotta love Piper the adorable child whose love of animals really shines through. It’s great to see how well Maddie’s family and friends work together to solve the case. There are a lot of red herrings for the reader to sort through and keep the story interesting. Sometimes with a lot of characters, you have trouble keeping them straight in your mind, but that I didn’t have an issue with that in this story. I usually figure these mysteries out, but I was off the mark with this one. This is a purrfectly pleasing cozy. 4.5 stars
I loved this adorable cozy with the awesome cat JJ for whom the business is named and Puck the legendary ghost cat who turns up at the most unexpected times. The backstory the author created for Puck is fascinating and Helen, the island historian, is a real hoot. And, you’ve gotta love Piper the adorable child whose love of animals really shines through. It’s great to see how well Maddie’s family and friends work together to solve the case. There are a lot of red herrings for the reader to sort through and keep the story interesting. Sometimes with a lot of characters, you have trouble keeping them straight in your mind, but that I didn’t have an issue with that in this story. I usually figure these mysteries out, but I was off the mark with this one. This is a purrfectly pleasing cozy. 4.5 stars
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Purranormal Activity is the tenth entry in Cate Conte's Cat Cafe Mystery series. This time, Maddie James has two mysteries on her hands instead of just one. Eager to see a childhood best friend she hasn’t seen since the woman left Daybreak Island as a teenager, Maddie’s mother accompanies her as she goes to work out the details for a granddaughter’s birthday party (where Maddie is bringing the mobile cat cafe).
Instead of a warm welcome, they are greeted by an open door. A gray and white cat leads Maddie to the body of her mother's friend, and soon, Maddie's mother becomes a suspect in the murder. The cat that led her to the body vanishes, leading Maddie to discover it might be the legendary ghost cat of Daybreak Island. As Maddie digs deeper, she realizes the murder might be linked to the woman's Aunt Delia, who disappeared decades ago.
This was an intriguing mystery. I enjoyed that a ghost cat, rather than a human spirit, led Maddie to the body. It was heartbreaking that Maddie's mother didn't get to speak to her friend; we'll never know if the woman was as eager to reconnect as Maddie's mother was. I also really liked the twist at the end—even though I had questioned that specific element, the reveal was still unexpected.
Instead of a warm welcome, they are greeted by an open door. A gray and white cat leads Maddie to the body of her mother's friend, and soon, Maddie's mother becomes a suspect in the murder. The cat that led her to the body vanishes, leading Maddie to discover it might be the legendary ghost cat of Daybreak Island. As Maddie digs deeper, she realizes the murder might be linked to the woman's Aunt Delia, who disappeared decades ago.
This was an intriguing mystery. I enjoyed that a ghost cat, rather than a human spirit, led Maddie to the body. It was heartbreaking that Maddie's mother didn't get to speak to her friend; we'll never know if the woman was as eager to reconnect as Maddie's mother was. I also really liked the twist at the end—even though I had questioned that specific element, the reveal was still unexpected.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This is my first time reading this series and what a delightful series it is. Maddie James and her family especially JJ the cat are a hoot. I love the way the entire family not only helps with the running of the cat cafe and mobile cat party truck but they also solve mysteries together. This time, the mystery is about Olivia, her mother's best friend growing up has recently returned to the Daybreak Island and has contacted Maddie about hosting a cat party for her granddaughter, Piper. However, when Maddie arrives at Olivia's house to discuss the party, she finds her dead, being led to her body by a cat. Combine the legend of the ghost cat and the disappearance of Olivia's aunt, years before from the same house and you have a doozy of a tale.
This story includes fun side characters, such as a young adult who is trying to start a business just like Maddies, local historian Helen who knows more than she is letting on, and the entourage of animals, cats and dogs. Fun story, good mystery, good characters all add to this cozy mystery. Grab a drink, get cozy and read on! Thanks to Net Galley and St. Martin's Press.
This story includes fun side characters, such as a young adult who is trying to start a business just like Maddies, local historian Helen who knows more than she is letting on, and the entourage of animals, cats and dogs. Fun story, good mystery, good characters all add to this cozy mystery. Grab a drink, get cozy and read on! Thanks to Net Galley and St. Martin's Press.
July 14, 2026
I feel like I should start with a disclaimer - while this is book 10 in the series, this was my first read of the Cat Cafe Mystery Series. While a lot of context was missing for me, I did not feel lost because the author did a great job in catching me up in the first chapter, without it feeling like an exhausting exposition dump. I was so ready to dive right in! I love cat cafes, and cozy mysteries, so this novel was exactly up my alley. A big thank you to NetGalley and St. Martin's Press | Minotaur Books for this ARC!
This was so cute. Our characters and their relationships are well established, and the vibes are cozy. As I said, it was no issue for me to know who is who, and how they are related, thanks to the author. The setting was great - it was a true small-town vibe, of interconnected towns on an island off the coast of Boston. Everyone seemed to know everyone, and for me, as someone who grew up in a small town herself, it felt very authentic.
The mystery was a bit outsized for the small-town vibes, but I really liked the supernatural inclusion. Those types of sightings are common in all communities, and I felt that it wasn't overdone here. Our intrepid heroine Maddie did a great job in laying out the mystery and working with law enforcement to find out who-dun-it. I enjoyed this book so much that I went back to start the series as a whole, to see Maddie and JJ's journey and how they got to where they are now. I can't wait to be along for the ride!
This was so cute. Our characters and their relationships are well established, and the vibes are cozy. As I said, it was no issue for me to know who is who, and how they are related, thanks to the author. The setting was great - it was a true small-town vibe, of interconnected towns on an island off the coast of Boston. Everyone seemed to know everyone, and for me, as someone who grew up in a small town herself, it felt very authentic.
The mystery was a bit outsized for the small-town vibes, but I really liked the supernatural inclusion. Those types of sightings are common in all communities, and I felt that it wasn't overdone here. Our intrepid heroine Maddie did a great job in laying out the mystery and working with law enforcement to find out who-dun-it. I enjoyed this book so much that I went back to start the series as a whole, to see Maddie and JJ's journey and how they got to where they are now. I can't wait to be along for the ride!
Read
August 4, 2026This is the 10th installment of the Cat Cafe mystery series! In this book, Maddie and JJ (her cat) are scheduling a mobile cat cafe, which includes parties at the library as well as for a birthday. However, when Maddie and her mom, Sophie, head to the newest client's house to confirm the details, instead of signing a contract, they find the owner dead in a secret room! The twist is that Sophie knew the client, Olivia, from when she was young. Olivia and her family moved away during high school after a family member went missing.
Maddie finds herself getting involved in solving a murder, especially once it comes to light that her mom is a suspect! At the same time, she is also dealing with a copycat business that is trying to steal her cat cafe party customers as well!
While I did enjoy the mystery, some things can be confusing with the sheer number of people in the book. I also thought the ending felt a little rushed, although the author kept the reader guessing about the murderer until the very end!
Thank you to Netgalley and St. Martin's Press for an advanced copy of the book!
Maddie finds herself getting involved in solving a murder, especially once it comes to light that her mom is a suspect! At the same time, she is also dealing with a copycat business that is trying to steal her cat cafe party customers as well!
While I did enjoy the mystery, some things can be confusing with the sheer number of people in the book. I also thought the ending felt a little rushed, although the author kept the reader guessing about the murderer until the very end!
Thank you to Netgalley and St. Martin's Press for an advanced copy of the book!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Purranormal Activity by Cate Conte is the tenth book in A Cat Café Mystery, and it turned out to be a really charming cozy. Maddie James is juggling her Cat Café and her mobile cat‑themed parties when her mom’s childhood best friend, Olivia, returns to Daybreak Island for the first time since Olivia's Aunt Delia vanished decades ago. Olivia asks Maddie to plan a birthday party for her granddaughter, and Maddie is happy to help. Unfortunately she discovers Olivia dead. A gray‑and‑white cat leads Maddie to the body, only to vanish again, which ties into the island’s legendary ghost cat.
Even though this is the tenth book in the series, it was my first, and I had no trouble settling in with the regular cast or following the story. That’s always a good sign of a well‑written cozy. The mystery is engaging, the paranormal touch is fun without taking over, and the overall tone stays warm and inviting. I’ll definitely be picking up more books from this series.
Thank you NetGalley and Minotaur Books for the advanced reader copy. This is my honest review.
Even though this is the tenth book in the series, it was my first, and I had no trouble settling in with the regular cast or following the story. That’s always a good sign of a well‑written cozy. The mystery is engaging, the paranormal touch is fun without taking over, and the overall tone stays warm and inviting. I’ll definitely be picking up more books from this series.
Thank you NetGalley and Minotaur Books for the advanced reader copy. This is my honest review.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
A cozy mystery with whiskers, charm, and just the right touch of the supernatural, Purranormal Activity by Cate Conte is a delightful read from start to finish. The characters—felines included—are well developed and easy to like, and JJ the cat quickly became a favorite. I also enjoyed the quirky setting of Daybreak Island, Massachusetts, where everyone seems to know one another and stay delightfully involved in each other’s lives. The story offers two mysteries to solve, both filled with enjoyable twists and turns. Although I guessed the resolution of the whodunits, I still wanted to keep reading to see exactly how everything would unfold. The paranormal element is balanced just right, and the humor adds extra warmth throughout. The cat café manager is especially unique, with her clear preference for felines over humans. Purranormal Activity is the tenth book in the Cat Café Mystery series, but it can easily be read as a standalone. For readers who enjoy cozy mysteries with humor, heart, and a few fabulous cats, this one is a real treat.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Maddie runs a cat café and party service. When she and her mother go to the McAllister’s home to discuss the details of a little girl’s birthday party they find Olivia McAllister dead. As the investigation ramps up it starts to look like Maddie’s mother is a suspect in her old friend’s death.
The characters are interesting, the cats are a nice background and, of course, the Ghost Cat is intriguing. I came to the same conclusion about the murderer at just about the same time Maddie did and was fairly certain what Delia’s fate was but totally wrong about who that culprit was.
While this is the tenth entry in this series it is the first one I have read. The author does a good job of setting the scene and identifying all the characters while seamlessly blending it in to the ongoing story so while I had not read previous entries there was no point at which I felt lost in terms of the setting and characters. I will be looking for the next entry as well as looking for the first nine books. Recommended
The characters are interesting, the cats are a nice background and, of course, the Ghost Cat is intriguing. I came to the same conclusion about the murderer at just about the same time Maddie did and was fairly certain what Delia’s fate was but totally wrong about who that culprit was.
While this is the tenth entry in this series it is the first one I have read. The author does a good job of setting the scene and identifying all the characters while seamlessly blending it in to the ongoing story so while I had not read previous entries there was no point at which I felt lost in terms of the setting and characters. I will be looking for the next entry as well as looking for the first nine books. Recommended
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
A quite enjoyable read. Wonderful characters, and truly entertaining. Not the overly structured and predictable cozy read. Thrilling but in the cozy mystery vein but without the mystical or romance. Just a true mystery with interesting characters and a bit of different world building. Loved how the family is all involved with one another and wound in one another’s lives, much like my own. Really loved the story about Puck the cat and how he was “around”. Was my first time reading this author, and think I would read again. One thing I really appreciated was the explanation’s of background characters but how those explanations didn’t get carried away and overwhelm the actual story. Just give us enough to know who they were and why they mattered to our main character. Many authors could actually learn from this, in my opinion. If you want a good and enjoyable mystery read… pick this one up.
Arc read
Arc read
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Cat Cafe Mystery series #10. I'm new to the series, but had no difficulty jumping right in. Characters and situations were tidily explained or revealed. Maddie now has a mobile cat cafe for hosting parties, and is invited to manage one for the daughter of an old friend of her mother's. But when she arrives at the mansion to discuss particulars, no one is there, until a mysterious white cat leads her to a hidden room where she discovers her mom's friend on the floor, murdered. Things get very complicated very quickly, and her mom is foremost as a suspect. What's a girl to do? At the same time, another cat party planner seems to be moving into her territory out of the blue. The characters are engaging, the story well plotted, and the action believable and intelligent. The slight fantasy element actually does add to the story and atmosphere. All in all, very enjoyable and worth checking out the rest of the series. Recommended.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 78 reviews