What do you think?
Rate this book
The Cat Lady Chronicles #4
Night Maze
It's one thing to be dealing death. It's quite another to deal with the undead.
Kit McCafferty has never been fond of vampires but she can't refuse the opportunity to learn more about their kind. When she is invited into the clandestine underground world of the Understream to investigate the mysterious disappearance of some giant worms, she soon discovers there is far more to the fanged creatures than she'd ever realised.
Danger, secrets and mysteries abound in every dark, twisting tunnel. Is there anyone in the depths who Kit can trust? Or will she have to rely on her wits - and her cats - alone?
This is the fourth book in the thrilling urban fantasy series The Cat Lady Chronicles.
Kit McCafferty has never been fond of vampires but she can't refuse the opportunity to learn more about their kind. When she is invited into the clandestine underground world of the Understream to investigate the mysterious disappearance of some giant worms, she soon discovers there is far more to the fanged creatures than she'd ever realised.
Danger, secrets and mysteries abound in every dark, twisting tunnel. Is there anyone in the depths who Kit can trust? Or will she have to rely on her wits - and her cats - alone?
This is the fourth book in the thrilling urban fantasy series The Cat Lady Chronicles.
286 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 29, 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
June 19, 2026
I want to know tiddle's name so bad
June 7, 2026
The most important update first: Tiddle's new name is 😅. Considering that she has effectively adopted Thane and somehow managed to make a werewolf submits to her, I'd say that's a pretty fitting name.
Anyway, in this installment, Kit joins MET training for amateur investigators and is assigned what initially seems like a fairly straightforward case: finding some missing worms in the Understream (a.k.a. Vampire Central).
Except, of course, it isn't that simple.
Because there's something lurking in the Understream. There's a black maze. There are missing vampires and thralls. And Kit, being Kit, is absolutely determined to get to the bottom of it all—with some assistance from a mysterious Maine Coon cat.
If you've read Squib, you may recognize some early clues about the mystery. That said, you definitely don't need to have read it first. Harper does a solid job providing the necessary backstory, so readers who ONLY read this series won't feel lost.
This was another thoroughly enjoyable entry in the series. And I think we're finally getting a few more hints about Trilby, the enigmatic stall owner at Danksville Market. At this point, I'm starting to suspect that Trilby may be older than just about everyone else in the series.
And honestly? That only makes me more curious. 😄
Anyway, in this installment, Kit joins MET training for amateur investigators and is assigned what initially seems like a fairly straightforward case: finding some missing worms in the Understream (a.k.a. Vampire Central).
Except, of course, it isn't that simple.
Because there's something lurking in the Understream. There's a black maze. There are missing vampires and thralls. And Kit, being Kit, is absolutely determined to get to the bottom of it all—with some assistance from a mysterious Maine Coon cat.
If you've read Squib, you may recognize some early clues about the mystery. That said, you definitely don't need to have read it first. Harper does a solid job providing the necessary backstory, so readers who ONLY read this series won't feel lost.
This was another thoroughly enjoyable entry in the series. And I think we're finally getting a few more hints about Trilby, the enigmatic stall owner at Danksville Market. At this point, I'm starting to suspect that Trilby may be older than just about everyone else in the series.
And honestly? That only makes me more curious. 😄
June 5, 2026
Meh…. Nothing fabulous, nothing terrible. Just mundane.
June 12, 2026
An intriguing Kit adventure where she's on an actual detective case in the vampires' secret Understream tunnels. A little slow at first, but it picks up quickly and the action is engaging as are the mounting secrets about Trilby and a mysterious silver Maine Coon. New characters to enjoy as well. I continue to enjoy Thane's additions to Kit's lifestyle and the fun Cait Sith capabilities she wields. A satisfying ending, too.
May 31, 2026
Great fantasy adventure
The body count is low, the violence level is lower, but the ending of the bad is heartbreaking. A few questions about Coldstream's quirkiest, mysterious resident are answered. And the cat lady saves the day.
The body count is low, the violence level is lower, but the ending of the bad is heartbreaking. A few questions about Coldstream's quirkiest, mysterious resident are answered. And the cat lady saves the day.
June 1, 2026
Good story and fun read. I was a little confused by how she did something in full view of a large group that she had been keeping very secret for all the other books. It seemed out of place and counter to her previous actions even earlier in the book. It didn’t even need to happen that way. It was odd and threw me off. It was a good story and fun, it in no way put me off future books.
June 6, 2026
Highly recommended! A winner and one for those who love urban fantasy series.
Rating: 4.5 ⭐️
Night Maze was excellent. And it builds around the plot from connected series /story, Squib (The Coldstream Chronicles Book 1). It’s not necessary to read that book but it’s fun and adds layers to this story.
Kit McCafferty is sent out on a mission to discover what happened to the Vampires missing giant worms who travel the Understream, the worms being a vital part of their undead community.
One aspect of Night Maze that makes this so special and well written is that the vampires up until now have been a lesser known or even a one-dimensional entity. And the Understream, an entire city and mysterious community that exists behind secretive entrances has been an enigma. Only briefly in previous stories has Kit and others journeyed into it and then swiftly out noting the dangers and hidden tunnels.
Harper shines a narrative light, if you’ll excuse me, on the emotional depths and hidden history of the vampires and their communities in the Understream, including the fabulous giant worms. Really, I wanted so badly to have more of them once I got to see intriguing glimpses of their personalities.
And the vampires too, especially one. She’s magnificent.
The investigation is terrific, dark and fascinating. And gives us a new feline character to mull over and know that he’s going to pop up in the oncoming novels.
But we get to see Kit flex her skills in multiple ways and in different challenges. She’s a powerful paranormal being and she plays a role, “cat lady persona” , most of the time. Only occasionally does she really her “true self” out in these situations. It’s fantastic here to see her being able to be that type of shifter that none suspects she is.
The relationship between Kat and Thane Barrow, the lone werewolf, is admirable. They understand each other, their need for individual lives and space while also supporting each other, insuring separate territories within Coldstream. It’s a great element here.
I love Night Maze and Kit. The next novel threatens to shatter the stability that Kit has built so hard for herself. I can’t wait. What an incredible character and series.
Highly recommended! A winner and one for those who love urban fantasy series.
Book Cover created by Covers By Juan
The Cat Lady Chronicles (5 book series):
Waifs And Strays #1
The Dark Hiss of Magic #2
A Skirl of Sorcery #3
Night Maze #4
A Killer Heart #5 - Sept 18, 2026
Related series:
Squib (The Coldstream Chronicles Book 1)
Rating: 4.5 ⭐️
Night Maze was excellent. And it builds around the plot from connected series /story, Squib (The Coldstream Chronicles Book 1). It’s not necessary to read that book but it’s fun and adds layers to this story.
Kit McCafferty is sent out on a mission to discover what happened to the Vampires missing giant worms who travel the Understream, the worms being a vital part of their undead community.
One aspect of Night Maze that makes this so special and well written is that the vampires up until now have been a lesser known or even a one-dimensional entity. And the Understream, an entire city and mysterious community that exists behind secretive entrances has been an enigma. Only briefly in previous stories has Kit and others journeyed into it and then swiftly out noting the dangers and hidden tunnels.
Harper shines a narrative light, if you’ll excuse me, on the emotional depths and hidden history of the vampires and their communities in the Understream, including the fabulous giant worms. Really, I wanted so badly to have more of them once I got to see intriguing glimpses of their personalities.
And the vampires too, especially one. She’s magnificent.
The investigation is terrific, dark and fascinating. And gives us a new feline character to mull over and know that he’s going to pop up in the oncoming novels.
But we get to see Kit flex her skills in multiple ways and in different challenges. She’s a powerful paranormal being and she plays a role, “cat lady persona” , most of the time. Only occasionally does she really her “true self” out in these situations. It’s fantastic here to see her being able to be that type of shifter that none suspects she is.
The relationship between Kat and Thane Barrow, the lone werewolf, is admirable. They understand each other, their need for individual lives and space while also supporting each other, insuring separate territories within Coldstream. It’s a great element here.
I love Night Maze and Kit. The next novel threatens to shatter the stability that Kit has built so hard for herself. I can’t wait. What an incredible character and series.
Highly recommended! A winner and one for those who love urban fantasy series.
Book Cover created by Covers By Juan
The Cat Lady Chronicles (5 book series):
Waifs And Strays #1
The Dark Hiss of Magic #2
A Skirl of Sorcery #3
Night Maze #4
A Killer Heart #5 - Sept 18, 2026
Related series:
Squib (The Coldstream Chronicles Book 1)
Review of advance copy received from Author
This latest book in this series was brilliant! I loved it and could hardly put it down. I love that Kit McCafferty, our heroine, is not the typical young girl with heaps of magic. Instead she is an ex-assassin with lots of cats and crazy level skills, but everyone always seems to underestimate what she is capable of. This definitely works in her favour though!
When Kit has to swap cases to investigate as part of her graduation from an investigation course she has been taking, she is taken back to the Understream - the world of vampires underground. She starts to investigate the case of the missing worms, but so much than that is troubling the vampires and it is down to Kit to work out everything and to solve it, even if the vampires don't want her to!
I loved the world building of the Understream and their system of tunnels. The maze part was brilliant and reminded me of the maze in Labyrinth, but with a scarier creature in the centre! Alan was a surprise - I didn't think he would have been capable of doing what he did, but I really liked that Penelope and Thomas were on Kit's side! Hopefully we will see more of them in the future books of this series. That Maine Coon is intriguing as well - why was he in the Understream and the maze? What will he do now?
I loved the crossover with Squid as well - I knew I knew Eric from somewhere and once the jug was mentioned it all clicked! Can't wait to read another book in the Coldstream Chronicles series as well with Mallory this time!
Thank you Helen for another great read! I received a copy of this book from the author, but this review is my own, honest one. If you haven't already started this series, then go do so. It's a fun, great read, with fantastic world building, great character developments, brilliant twisted plots that surprise you at each turn and a heap of cute cats who do just whatever they want regardless of their orders!
When Kit has to swap cases to investigate as part of her graduation from an investigation course she has been taking, she is taken back to the Understream - the world of vampires underground. She starts to investigate the case of the missing worms, but so much than that is troubling the vampires and it is down to Kit to work out everything and to solve it, even if the vampires don't want her to!
I loved the world building of the Understream and their system of tunnels. The maze part was brilliant and reminded me of the maze in Labyrinth, but with a scarier creature in the centre! Alan was a surprise - I didn't think he would have been capable of doing what he did, but I really liked that Penelope and Thomas were on Kit's side! Hopefully we will see more of them in the future books of this series. That Maine Coon is intriguing as well - why was he in the Understream and the maze? What will he do now?
I loved the crossover with Squid as well - I knew I knew Eric from somewhere and once the jug was mentioned it all clicked! Can't wait to read another book in the Coldstream Chronicles series as well with Mallory this time!
Thank you Helen for another great read! I received a copy of this book from the author, but this review is my own, honest one. If you haven't already started this series, then go do so. It's a fun, great read, with fantastic world building, great character developments, brilliant twisted plots that surprise you at each turn and a heap of cute cats who do just whatever they want regardless of their orders!
June 12, 2026
First off, I am 100% totally a fan of the power of being underestimated, which makes me connect with Kit on a soul level. Her guise as a middle-aged cat lady is SO smooth, so perfectly constructed, that absolutely no one would ever suspect her of being anything else.
Until she is very much not. 😄
Second, I am absolutely loving the dynamic between Kit and Lady Penelope. Their friendship develops slowly and organically, layered in beautifully, and you can feel it building in a way that just works. Penelope's comment about the brightest colors in nature made me stop dead, put the book down, and just sit with it for a full minute before I could go on.
Favorite quote (zero judgment): "I could have happily gone an entire lifetime without invertebrate friends, but here we were." 😂 I mean. COME ON. That's hilarious.
The villain reveal absolutely blindsided me — and I mean that in the best possible way. He was the last person on my radar, just as he was on Kit's, and the way Harper set it up is genuinely clever. Well done!
This story is just exquisitely well written, it's practically in a class of its own. The plot grabs you by the collar from page one and flat-out refuses to let go, and you will not be putting this book down until the very last page. Because it is just that good.
Until she is very much not. 😄
Second, I am absolutely loving the dynamic between Kit and Lady Penelope. Their friendship develops slowly and organically, layered in beautifully, and you can feel it building in a way that just works. Penelope's comment about the brightest colors in nature made me stop dead, put the book down, and just sit with it for a full minute before I could go on.
Favorite quote (zero judgment): "I could have happily gone an entire lifetime without invertebrate friends, but here we were." 😂 I mean. COME ON. That's hilarious.
The villain reveal absolutely blindsided me — and I mean that in the best possible way. He was the last person on my radar, just as he was on Kit's, and the way Harper set it up is genuinely clever. Well done!
This story is just exquisitely well written, it's practically in a class of its own. The plot grabs you by the collar from page one and flat-out refuses to let go, and you will not be putting this book down until the very last page. Because it is just that good.
June 7, 2026
The executive summary: The FMC's character was trying to be too many things.
I've read the first 3 of this series, and understood the lay of the land. But this round really got me frustrated. The FMC is a ex assassin, but the entire plot is that she is taking the equal of a local community college course on being a PI. The tone is almost a "golly gee", and "I know absolutely nothing about investigation" which is a stretch for what is supposedly an extremely expert assassin.
I kept going because maybe it's just my read on things, but unfortunately the author kept switching between "the FMC is a smart as heck assassin and is hiding her true nature" to "the FMC is scratching her head, and is doing x only because she learned about it in the college course". It made it hard to know who this character is. One moment it's "oh I'm *just* a cat lady - wink wink nudge nudge" and another is "should I be taking notes during this investigation?"
I think the author tried to make the FMC's flaw a lack of investigative knowledge. But without it I couldn't name one other than her having a lot of cats, which isn't really a flaw. The bones are there, and I think if she was written with a begrudging attendance or similar it would have been a higher energy story.
I've read the first 3 of this series, and understood the lay of the land. But this round really got me frustrated. The FMC is a ex assassin, but the entire plot is that she is taking the equal of a local community college course on being a PI. The tone is almost a "golly gee", and "I know absolutely nothing about investigation" which is a stretch for what is supposedly an extremely expert assassin.
I kept going because maybe it's just my read on things, but unfortunately the author kept switching between "the FMC is a smart as heck assassin and is hiding her true nature" to "the FMC is scratching her head, and is doing x only because she learned about it in the college course". It made it hard to know who this character is. One moment it's "oh I'm *just* a cat lady - wink wink nudge nudge" and another is "should I be taking notes during this investigation?"
I think the author tried to make the FMC's flaw a lack of investigative knowledge. But without it I couldn't name one other than her having a lot of cats, which isn't really a flaw. The bones are there, and I think if she was written with a begrudging attendance or similar it would have been a higher energy story.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Helen Harper is one of my 'yep I'm definitely reading that author' authors. She writes entertaining urban fantasy building super worlds with characters you definitely want to get to know better. This book is the fourth in this particular series and the fifth book set in the Coldstream world, a place where all things magical exist from werewolves and vampires to giant worms.
Kit, retired assassin and definite cat lady, finds herself involved in a new adventure, courtesy of her involvement in a investigative skills course she is taking with the local authorities. As her final test before being certified (but in no official way really), she has to undertake an investigation involving the vampires who largely inhabit a world underneath Coldstream. Not her favourite group of people, Kit quickly discovers that the problems the vampires are facing are far more serious than a few missing transport worms and she really is going to have to sort things out.
Helen's dialogue in particular is always fun and often outright hilarious and this book does not disappoint with really amusing banter between Kit McCafferty and her new vampire bestie, Lady Penelope. There are plenty of twists and turns before the answers are revealed, but Kit always seems to be able to save the day. What is really great about this book is all the familiar faces and places we get to revisit - it is like coming home to a place we know well to see what is happening this week, month, year.
I always find myself feeling like I'm snuggling into a warm hug - Helen's books are both cosy and clever. If you have never read her work then you are very lucky because you have plenty of books to discover and enjoy. Thanks Helen for sharing another fun episode of Kit's adventures as a Cat Lady.
Kit, retired assassin and definite cat lady, finds herself involved in a new adventure, courtesy of her involvement in a investigative skills course she is taking with the local authorities. As her final test before being certified (but in no official way really), she has to undertake an investigation involving the vampires who largely inhabit a world underneath Coldstream. Not her favourite group of people, Kit quickly discovers that the problems the vampires are facing are far more serious than a few missing transport worms and she really is going to have to sort things out.
Helen's dialogue in particular is always fun and often outright hilarious and this book does not disappoint with really amusing banter between Kit McCafferty and her new vampire bestie, Lady Penelope. There are plenty of twists and turns before the answers are revealed, but Kit always seems to be able to save the day. What is really great about this book is all the familiar faces and places we get to revisit - it is like coming home to a place we know well to see what is happening this week, month, year.
I always find myself feeling like I'm snuggling into a warm hug - Helen's books are both cosy and clever. If you have never read her work then you are very lucky because you have plenty of books to discover and enjoy. Thanks Helen for sharing another fun episode of Kit's adventures as a Cat Lady.
June 6, 2026
Such a great mystery!
I’ve loved every book in this series so far, so I’m definitely biased, but this one is my favorite so far. Also, if you haven’t read the first Coldstream book, Squib, I recommend you read that first before continuing on to this story.
It was so funny — there were references to things that happened previously that were familiar to me, but Kit acted like she wasn’t aware they’d happened. I was sure I’d read them in the last Kit book, but when I looked back, I realized they’d happened in a different book series. Same world, different star character. And in case that isn’t enough incentive, Squib is a really good story anyway. So go read it, then come back and read this story.
Also, while Kit and Thane are still the usual main characters, I feel like the Understream giant worms are another main character here. I never thought I’d love a giant worm, but Dusty has my heart. And She Without an Ear plays a starring role as well. I really, really enjoyed this story!
I’ve loved every book in this series so far, so I’m definitely biased, but this one is my favorite so far. Also, if you haven’t read the first Coldstream book, Squib, I recommend you read that first before continuing on to this story.
It was so funny — there were references to things that happened previously that were familiar to me, but Kit acted like she wasn’t aware they’d happened. I was sure I’d read them in the last Kit book, but when I looked back, I realized they’d happened in a different book series. Same world, different star character. And in case that isn’t enough incentive, Squib is a really good story anyway. So go read it, then come back and read this story.
Also, while Kit and Thane are still the usual main characters, I feel like the Understream giant worms are another main character here. I never thought I’d love a giant worm, but Dusty has my heart. And She Without an Ear plays a starring role as well. I really, really enjoyed this story!
Review of advance copy received from Author
This One Was Fun!
In Kit the cat lady’s latest outing we see her taking part in the very first investigators course run by the MET, her final assignment sees her delving into the world of the vampires which links in to the previous release in her other series set in the same world (you don’t need to have read the other series to read this however those who have will take more from the story).
We see Kit make new friends and new villains do their best to thwart her at every turn. The usual litter of cat family make several cameos and we meet a new silver haired handsome fellow who causes quite a stir amongst the lady cats with his Maine Coon gorgeousness! Dusty may not be a cat but he is an absolute darling and I predict many reader hugs will be winging their way to him by the end of this book!
The book comes to a nice comfortable ending but still dangling some future mysteries yet to come – heartily recommend!
In Kit the cat lady’s latest outing we see her taking part in the very first investigators course run by the MET, her final assignment sees her delving into the world of the vampires which links in to the previous release in her other series set in the same world (you don’t need to have read the other series to read this however those who have will take more from the story).
We see Kit make new friends and new villains do their best to thwart her at every turn. The usual litter of cat family make several cameos and we meet a new silver haired handsome fellow who causes quite a stir amongst the lady cats with his Maine Coon gorgeousness! Dusty may not be a cat but he is an absolute darling and I predict many reader hugs will be winging their way to him by the end of this book!
The book comes to a nice comfortable ending but still dangling some future mysteries yet to come – heartily recommend!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Kit is taking an investigation class so she can solve crimes more efficiently and to be a junior investigator if things in Coldstream get busy. To graduate the course she has to solve a crime and the teacher decides to have everyone swap so they have to investigate in unfamiliar places. Kit swaps with a vampire who has a case that involves giant missing worms and with that she will have to descend into the vampires underground caves known as the Understream. In the Understream she finds an unexpected community of happy vampires that mirrors Coldstreams streets. While looking for the worms Kit finds that there is something much worse is going on in the dark tunnels. Vampires are going missing and they are trying to keep it under wraps so it doesn't cause a panic. Kit must find out what happened to the missing vampires before it's her that goes missing. Follow Kit into the night maze and try not to get lost!
May 30, 2026
*I am very lucky to have gotten an arc from Helen!*
4.5 Stars
CW: human sacrifices; giant worms (friendly)
TLDR: Another heart-racing foray into Danksville filled with giant worms, vampires, a Maine Coon!!, and secrets that only Trilby seems to know...
My Thoughts:
First, I must commend Tiddles on her new name. 11/10 no notes.
I adore this series so much! Kit is such an utter delight and I love seeing her trademark sass and problem solving skills being applied to such diverse situations in Coldstream. This book introduces the excellent Penelope (who I sort of ship Kit with) as well as more questions on the enigma of Trilby. SERIOUSLY WHAT IS TRILBY'S DEAL I NEED TO KNOW!
Every book in this series leaves me absolutely agonising for the next one and "Night Maze" is no exception!! This series is truly a noteworthy and unique addition to the urban fantasy oeuvre.
4.5 Stars
CW: human sacrifices; giant worms (friendly)
TLDR: Another heart-racing foray into Danksville filled with giant worms, vampires, a Maine Coon!!, and secrets that only Trilby seems to know...
My Thoughts:
First, I must commend Tiddles on her new name. 11/10 no notes.
I adore this series so much! Kit is such an utter delight and I love seeing her trademark sass and problem solving skills being applied to such diverse situations in Coldstream. This book introduces the excellent Penelope (who I sort of ship Kit with) as well as more questions on the enigma of Trilby. SERIOUSLY WHAT IS TRILBY'S DEAL I NEED TO KNOW!
Every book in this series leaves me absolutely agonising for the next one and "Night Maze" is no exception!! This series is truly a noteworthy and unique addition to the urban fantasy oeuvre.
June 8, 2026
Kit has been taking a class in investigation skills and as a final test she must solve a mystery. She ends up being invited to the vampire Underground to look for some of their missing transportation worms, think if huge buses that are ridden on.
The vampires are not really co-operative but Kit preservers. She also discovers that vampires are missing as well.
To go with her cat lady persona, there is also a Maine Coon wandering around, who knows where he comes from or belongs.
With the help of She Without an Ear, as well as Thane and a couple of others, Kit gets down to business.
Thise has a good mystery, some action, lots of cats as well as interesting characters.
I just love the cat names; Thane’s little monster has decided her name is She Who Controls Werewolves (Thane I presume)
This is definitely a different setting with unusual characters.
Waiting now for the next book in September.
The vampires are not really co-operative but Kit preservers. She also discovers that vampires are missing as well.
To go with her cat lady persona, there is also a Maine Coon wandering around, who knows where he comes from or belongs.
With the help of She Without an Ear, as well as Thane and a couple of others, Kit gets down to business.
Thise has a good mystery, some action, lots of cats as well as interesting characters.
I just love the cat names; Thane’s little monster has decided her name is She Who Controls Werewolves (Thane I presume)
This is definitely a different setting with unusual characters.
Waiting now for the next book in September.
May 30, 2026
Night Maze (The Cat Lady Chronicles Book 4) by Helen Harper
Rating: ★★★★☆ (4 stars)
Tagline: A Whimsical Feline Adventure with Heart
Reader Review:
“Night Maze” delivers another delightful entry in The Cat Lady Chronicles, blending magical mischief, mystery, and plenty of feline charm. Helen Harper’s wit shines through her lovable protagonist and her quirky band of cats, keeping the story engaging from start to finish. The plot is well-paced, though a few twists felt slightly predictable compared to earlier books. Still, the vivid world-building and witty dialogue make this a thoroughly enjoyable read. Cat lovers and fans of cozy fantasy will find much to adore, even if this installment doesn’t quite reach the heights of the previous ones. Highly recommended for anyone craving a lighthearted, magical escape.
Rating: ★★★★☆ (4 stars)
Tagline: A Whimsical Feline Adventure with Heart
Reader Review:
“Night Maze” delivers another delightful entry in The Cat Lady Chronicles, blending magical mischief, mystery, and plenty of feline charm. Helen Harper’s wit shines through her lovable protagonist and her quirky band of cats, keeping the story engaging from start to finish. The plot is well-paced, though a few twists felt slightly predictable compared to earlier books. Still, the vivid world-building and witty dialogue make this a thoroughly enjoyable read. Cat lovers and fans of cozy fantasy will find much to adore, even if this installment doesn’t quite reach the heights of the previous ones. Highly recommended for anyone craving a lighthearted, magical escape.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This is a brilliant and engaging book that follows on from the last three. Kit has Thane to love and her cats to rely on, she with no ear, is the most amusing and features the most in the story, along with a beautiful Maine Coon cat. The mystery of the worms which is how this all starts is solved by the end, probably. Kit is trying to get her investigator badge and is put on to the missing Vampire's worms, which they use to travel around on and that leads on to another Vampire mystery which Kit manages to solve.
Very engaging story and a lot of fun to read. I love Kit being a middle aged cat sithe, using it to her advantage and what she does to solve the mystery. Even Trilby features in this. He is exasperating but lends a hand.
I got this an ARC copy and I give my review freely.
Very engaging story and a lot of fun to read. I love Kit being a middle aged cat sithe, using it to her advantage and what she does to solve the mystery. Even Trilby features in this. He is exasperating but lends a hand.
I got this an ARC copy and I give my review freely.
May 29, 2026
What a Purrrnomimical five-star read. This is number four in the Cat Lady Chronicles and they are best devoured as a series as they each reveal a deeper layer to the characters and their traits. Kit is just a delight, but I was really happy that we got to hear a teeny bit more about Trilby, they are a character who intrigues me, but I must admit it was she who commands that made me smile so big, you just know that Thane goes all googly over her. I love how there are little cross overs from other stories, that compliment if you have read them, but don’t leave you lots if you haven’t, it shows a real writing talent to get that balance. I am now eagerly awaiting number five, to sink my feline teeth into it, that being said I am happy to wait, as we all know it will be worth the wait.
June 1, 2026
Kit McCafferty is ready to graduate from a two-week course on basic investigative skills. One final homework task, and she'll be able to help with minor crimes. She chooses Graffiti, but ends up with Vampires!! Suddenly, she is invited into the secret underground world of the Understream, where the Vampires live and prosper. While researching the baffling loss of some megaworms, Kit realises that there is much more to the not-so-vicious vampires!!! Danger, darkness, and dilemmas thrive in the twisting, twilit tunnels! Who can she trust? Why is the stunning silver Main Coon loitering near her cats? This book 4 in Helen Harper's Catlady Chronicles, is AWESOME!! 5 catty celestial stars!!!!!
June 24, 2026
the best in the series yet
I absolutely love the cat lady chronicles, and this is the best in the series (although each volume is impossible to put down).
I have been saving this latest book since its release for when I really needed / wanted an escape somewhere familiar and beloved… and I almost wish I hadn’t.
The world building is reliably wonderful; Helen Harper has a gift. Equally, Kit’s character continues to develop and grow, and the romance adds a lovely element. I was absolutely taken with the new characters, and with the warmth of humanity in unexpected places. It has left me feeling all warm and fuzzy, and perhaps even a bit optimistic about the world.
My favourite book of 2026.
I absolutely love the cat lady chronicles, and this is the best in the series (although each volume is impossible to put down).
I have been saving this latest book since its release for when I really needed / wanted an escape somewhere familiar and beloved… and I almost wish I hadn’t.
The world building is reliably wonderful; Helen Harper has a gift. Equally, Kit’s character continues to develop and grow, and the romance adds a lovely element. I was absolutely taken with the new characters, and with the warmth of humanity in unexpected places. It has left me feeling all warm and fuzzy, and perhaps even a bit optimistic about the world.
My favourite book of 2026.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Being the owner of five cats (ahem) myself, I really resonate with Kit, so I was excited to read this latest addition to the series. We are pretty much dumped right into the action as Kit is drawn into a new investigation of missing worms in the Underneath. Yes, those worms. And, man, was it a fun ride, especially when about 2/3 of the way through, things are turned on their heads, and nothing is really what we thought it was. I just loved this latest installment, and I really adored a couple of new characters. Fans of this series and author are sure to love this latest book. Next, please! Highly recommend. I was provided a complimentary copy which I voluntarily reviewed.
June 2, 2026
Helen Harper is a treasure and her worlds are some of the best in the supernatural worlds. This time we find Kit finishing her course to become a police associate. But to graduate she has to solve a case which turns out to be in the Vampire underground. You know, the one no one knows about. Along the way a big Maine coon tomcat shows up and is an omen of bad things to come. She makes some friends, some enemies and ultimately does what only Kit can do, solve 2 crimes when she is only trying to solve one. But the friends she makes in a new community will always be friends who will help her if needed. Now about that Maine Coon Tom…
June 7, 2026
good
I love reading these books. They’re fun. The FMC was taking a class to learn how to do investigation but the teacher turned it around on them and instead of investigating her own project she ended up investigating somebody else’s project. The FMC ended up down in the under stream, investigating the missing worms that the vampires used for transportation, and ended up investigating more than just the missing worms. The FMC is not an assassin anymore, but it seems like an every book she’s always killing somebody in this book was no exception. I will definitely read the next book in the series if there is one.
I love reading these books. They’re fun. The FMC was taking a class to learn how to do investigation but the teacher turned it around on them and instead of investigating her own project she ended up investigating somebody else’s project. The FMC ended up down in the under stream, investigating the missing worms that the vampires used for transportation, and ended up investigating more than just the missing worms. The FMC is not an assassin anymore, but it seems like an every book she’s always killing somebody in this book was no exception. I will definitely read the next book in the series if there is one.
June 7, 2026
4.5 stars. In NIGHT MAZE, Kit is tasked with solving a vampire mystery in order to complete her Minor Investigator class. She travels to the Understream—the tunnels under the city which serve as the vampires’ home—to find out why their giant worker worms are disappearing.
There’s a connection to the new SQUIB series which tied neatly into the plot of NIGHT MAZE. And of the new characters, I loved Penelope and the mysterious regal Maine Coon cat.
Overall, this story was tightly written and incredibly compelling. I can’t wait for the next one!
There’s a connection to the new SQUIB series which tied neatly into the plot of NIGHT MAZE. And of the new characters, I loved Penelope and the mysterious regal Maine Coon cat.
Overall, this story was tightly written and incredibly compelling. I can’t wait for the next one!
June 7, 2026
A fun read
I enjoy reading this series. I enjoy watching the relationships between the recurring characters. This particular book had some really entertaining moments where I laughed out loud. I was not surprised At who the villain was nor was I surprised at the revelation of what the monster was. The point of these books however is not the complexity of the mystery. The point is the fun read and in that it was very successful. I look forward to Kit and
Thane's next adventure. I wonder what else Trilby has in store for them and for all their demon, I mean cat companions. I just know they have something in store.
I enjoy reading this series. I enjoy watching the relationships between the recurring characters. This particular book had some really entertaining moments where I laughed out loud. I was not surprised At who the villain was nor was I surprised at the revelation of what the monster was. The point of these books however is not the complexity of the mystery. The point is the fun read and in that it was very successful. I look forward to Kit and
Thane's next adventure. I wonder what else Trilby has in store for them and for all their demon, I mean cat companions. I just know they have something in store.
May 29, 2026
Thoroughly Entertaining
New book in The Cat Lady Chronicles is just as good as the previous books in the series. I love all the interesting bits about cats which always make these books feel unique and fun. The plot was engaging, fast paced and entertaining. Helen Harper’s writing style is always a delight.
I got an ARC from the Author and I also got an audiobook version, and the narrator has done a great job to bring the characters to life. It made the story even more enjoyable. I'm already looking forward to a new Helen Harper book.
New book in The Cat Lady Chronicles is just as good as the previous books in the series. I love all the interesting bits about cats which always make these books feel unique and fun. The plot was engaging, fast paced and entertaining. Helen Harper’s writing style is always a delight.
I got an ARC from the Author and I also got an audiobook version, and the narrator has done a great job to bring the characters to life. It made the story even more enjoyable. I'm already looking forward to a new Helen Harper book.
June 1, 2026
Another fun cat lady chronicle! Keep them coming Helen Harper!!
Everyone always underestimates Kit until it is too late, just the way she likes it too!
She is not just some crazy cat lady with 5 cats and loads of strays, she is a trained killer who seems to want to help those in her community. Strange combo for an ex EEL assassin.
I always knew there was more to Trilby, with their helpful knowing and always having something on hand to help Kit out. We now know Trilby's real name :D
Can not wait for the next book!
Everyone always underestimates Kit until it is too late, just the way she likes it too!
She is not just some crazy cat lady with 5 cats and loads of strays, she is a trained killer who seems to want to help those in her community. Strange combo for an ex EEL assassin.
I always knew there was more to Trilby, with their helpful knowing and always having something on hand to help Kit out. We now know Trilby's real name :D
Can not wait for the next book!
June 23, 2026
An excellent addition to the Cat Lady series!
Kit is finishing a two week investigator course when she’s brought into a vampire mystery. As she explores the Understream to locate some missing giant worms (yes, this is weird), she uncovers much greater secrets and dangers.
I really enjoy this urban fantasy series. The cats are great and Kit and Thane's relationship adds a lot to the story. We learn more in this episode about the mysterious Trilby as well. I also really liked the world building related to the vampires and the maze.
Kit is finishing a two week investigator course when she’s brought into a vampire mystery. As she explores the Understream to locate some missing giant worms (yes, this is weird), she uncovers much greater secrets and dangers.
I really enjoy this urban fantasy series. The cats are great and Kit and Thane's relationship adds a lot to the story. We learn more in this episode about the mysterious Trilby as well. I also really liked the world building related to the vampires and the maze.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Kit is back and she’s doing some training with the MET to improve her investigating skills. Her final project proves to be far more interesting than expected.
Without any spoilers, Kit has a very interesting time — adventure, twists, friends, and, of course, cats.
As usual, excellently written and a brilliant read. I did sit and read it in one session as I couldn’t put it down. Very satisfying end too.
Without any spoilers, Kit has a very interesting time — adventure, twists, friends, and, of course, cats.
As usual, excellently written and a brilliant read. I did sit and read it in one session as I couldn’t put it down. Very satisfying end too.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 78 reviews