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Second Chance Cat Mystery #2
Buy a Whisker
Things get sticky when Sarah Grayson and her cat, Elvis, must solve the murder of a troublesome baker in the second novel in the New York Times bestselling Second Chance Cat Mystery series.
Things have been quiet in the coastal town of North Harbor, Maine, since Sarah Grayson and her rescue cat, Elvis, solved their first murder. Sarah is happy running Second Chance, the shop where she sells lovingly refurbished and repurposed items. But then she gets dragged into a controversy over developing the waterfront. Most of the residents—including Sarah—are for it, but there is one holdout—baker Lily Carter.
So when Lily is found murdered in her bakery, it looks like somebody wanted to remove the only obstacle to the development. But Sarah soon discovers that nothing is as simple as it seems. Now, with the help of her cat’s uncanny ability to detect a lie, Sarah is narrowing down the suspects. But can she collar the culprit before the ruthless killer pounces again?
Things have been quiet in the coastal town of North Harbor, Maine, since Sarah Grayson and her rescue cat, Elvis, solved their first murder. Sarah is happy running Second Chance, the shop where she sells lovingly refurbished and repurposed items. But then she gets dragged into a controversy over developing the waterfront. Most of the residents—including Sarah—are for it, but there is one holdout—baker Lily Carter.
So when Lily is found murdered in her bakery, it looks like somebody wanted to remove the only obstacle to the development. But Sarah soon discovers that nothing is as simple as it seems. Now, with the help of her cat’s uncanny ability to detect a lie, Sarah is narrowing down the suspects. But can she collar the culprit before the ruthless killer pounces again?
355 pages, Paperback
First published April 7, 2015
139 people are currently reading
1108 people want to read
About the author
Sofie Ryan
13 books568 followersPseudonym for Darlene Ryan. Also writes under Sofie Kelly.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 255 reviews
August 10, 2022
Digital audio read by Marguerite Gavin
Book two in the Second Chance Cat Mystery series, featuring Sarah Grayson, proprietor of Second Chance, a consignment shop in North Harbor, Maine, and her rescue cat, Elvis. Sarah gets involved in a controversy over developing the waterfront. Sarah, along with most of the residents, are in favor, but one notable holdout is baker Lily Carter. So, when Lily is found murders in her bakery, fingers are pointed as those who were in favor of the development.
Once again Sarah is helped in her sleuthing for her band of friends who’ve dubbed themselves “Charlie’s Angels.” This colorful crew of senior sleuths are tenacious and inventive. And, though I’m not a cat person, I love Elvis and his ability to recognize a lie.
It’s a pretty typical cozy mystery. There are enough suspects and red herrings to keep the reader engaged and guessing, and an interesting regular cast of colorful, quirky characters.
Marguerite Gavin does a fine job of reading the audio version. She sets a good pace and has clear diction.
Book two in the Second Chance Cat Mystery series, featuring Sarah Grayson, proprietor of Second Chance, a consignment shop in North Harbor, Maine, and her rescue cat, Elvis. Sarah gets involved in a controversy over developing the waterfront. Sarah, along with most of the residents, are in favor, but one notable holdout is baker Lily Carter. So, when Lily is found murders in her bakery, fingers are pointed as those who were in favor of the development.
Once again Sarah is helped in her sleuthing for her band of friends who’ve dubbed themselves “Charlie’s Angels.” This colorful crew of senior sleuths are tenacious and inventive. And, though I’m not a cat person, I love Elvis and his ability to recognize a lie.
It’s a pretty typical cozy mystery. There are enough suspects and red herrings to keep the reader engaged and guessing, and an interesting regular cast of colorful, quirky characters.
Marguerite Gavin does a fine job of reading the audio version. She sets a good pace and has clear diction.
May 31, 2015
A very good follow-up in what is looking to be a good series, Sofie Ryan did a wonderful job of continuing the consistency of the character's actions and feelings through this book and the first one.
Sarah was once again a very good character, I loved her shop and the fact that we actually saw her working in it. In some mystery series I've read it seems like the MC just abandons their job on a whim to solve a murder, however in this book Sofie works at her job as owner of Second Chance. The Angels were again really fun. I've come to the conclusion that I really like older sleuths because they just come out and say what they mean, they don's mince their words. Mr. P, Charlotte, Liz, and Rose all are wonderful examples of that.
I like Nick, but yet I like Mac better, both character are strong and can stand on their own, however it seems like the author is setting up for a love triangle in future books. Let's hope not.
The mystery was very good, I didn't guess the killer until Sarah did.
Really a good book, there were a couple of editing errors that I noticed and the author seems to be setting up for a love triangle, but overall a solid 4 star read!
Sarah was once again a very good character, I loved her shop and the fact that we actually saw her working in it. In some mystery series I've read it seems like the MC just abandons their job on a whim to solve a murder, however in this book Sofie works at her job as owner of Second Chance. The Angels were again really fun. I've come to the conclusion that I really like older sleuths because they just come out and say what they mean, they don's mince their words. Mr. P, Charlotte, Liz, and Rose all are wonderful examples of that.
I like Nick, but yet I like Mac better, both character are strong and can stand on their own, however it seems like the author is setting up for a love triangle in future books. Let's hope not.
The mystery was very good, I didn't guess the killer until Sarah did.
Really a good book, there were a couple of editing errors that I noticed and the author seems to be setting up for a love triangle, but overall a solid 4 star read!
July 10, 2015
I really wanted to like this book more than I did, because one of my kids picked it out for me. But, in all honesty, it was just merely OK. Perhaps part of the problem is that this is book #2 in a cozy mystery series,, and I have not read the first book. But, aside from that, I had several problems with the book. There are way too many minor characters. I sense that the author wants the reader to feel that there is a community of individuals who live together and care about one another. If so, that does come across, but at a cost...it is too difficult to keep the characters straight and I didn't develop a connection with most of them. The main character is likable, as is one of her employees, who rents an apartment from her. Other than that, I felt no connection. The book also does not have a true ending. The reader can tell that the author is just setting up for the next book in the series. Personally, I don't like this device. I'll choose to read the next book of any series based on the strength of the writing, not because of a set-up. On a positive note, the author does a nice job with the setting. Individuals who are fans of cozy mysteries might also enjoy the author's use of a pet cat as a device in solving the mystery. With all of the books I have on my "must read" list, I don't think I'll be continuing on with this series.
December 5, 2025
Sarah, Elvis, and Charlotte's Angels are such a fun cast of characters! This was another fantastic mystery that left me guessing until the end, and the final reveal took me by surprise. This series is sure to appeal to cozy mystery and cat lovers everywhere.
July 20, 2016
This was another good read from Sofie Ryan's 'Second Chance Cat Mysteries' (aka Elvis, the cat). I liked the first one and I also like her 'Magical Cats Mysteries' (aka Owen and Hercules, the cats) which she writes under the pen name Sofie Kelly. Her cozies are well written and her characters well defined and interesting. I notice in both series, along with the cats and their female protagonist owners, she features series regulars that are elderly, young and middle aged, which is smart since it feels like the towns in which they live are authentic. They lead full, interesting lives with a diversity of characters that are friends and co-workers of the main characters. I don't really care who committed the crime as much as I like reading about the lives the cats and their owners live. This series takes place in Maine and Sarah owns and operates a resale shop. There are always interesting descriptions of furniture being refurbished and items picked up from estate sales, etc. that come into the shop. Elvis seems to know when a person is lying and this helps Sarah eliminate potential perpetrators of murder. He accompanies Sarah back and forth to the resale shop and around town. Mondays through Fridays Elvis insists upon watching Jeopardy. Sarah has no idea why or if he really understands the game show, but she has her television on a timer so that he does not miss an episode. I highly recommend this series to all cat and cozy lovers or anyone who just likes interesting characters.
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December 21, 2015I wasn't blown away, but I wasn't disappointed either. The main plot was well done but its motivation a little far-fetched. The twist at the end was a total surprise.
Wordy review: http://jenn.booklikes.com/post/123806...
Wordy review: http://jenn.booklikes.com/post/123806...
January 1, 2017
This was a nice follow up to book one. It had been awhile since I read book one so took me a few minutes to remember the characters but after that it took off pretty good. Totally stumped and surprised on who done it and why. I like when that happens!! :)
August 24, 2020
Sofie Ryan is one of the pseudonyms used by Darlene Ryan, author of non-fiction and young adult (YA) books. She writes the "Magical Cats Mysteries" using the pseudonym Sofie Kelly.
Sarah Grayson is the proprietor of Second Chance, a repurpose shop in the oceanfront town of North Harbor, Maine. After solving Arthur Fenety's murder in the spring (the mystery of Book 1 in the series) Charlotte, Liz, and Rose, friends of Sarah's grandmother opened their own detective agency called "Charlotte's Angels, Discreet Investigations." As many were introduced to the original "Charlie's Angels" television series in 1976 with Jaclyn Smith, Farah Fawcett, and Kate Jackson, I love that "Charlotte's Angels" are dynamic senior citizens. They also receive computer help from Rose's boyfriend, Alfred Petersen (often called Mr. P).
I don't know who I loved more as the series began, Elvis, or the "angels" as they reminded me of the wonderful fairy godmothers to Cinderella. Each has been a dear friend to Sarah's grandmother but has also brought a special quality to Sarah's life interactions too and I'm so happy that they continue to play a very active role in the series. I was hoping this would be so and not a one disappoints.
It's delightful to think of the diversity of ages working together in the "Second Chance" shop and with the youngest and one of the oldest in charge of window displays the creativity is drawing tourists and residents into the shop. A Valentine's Day display definitely has a unique twist to delight all ages. From the descriptions of the window displays and also of the refurbished items I know I'd love to stop in myself.
I have again lowered my star rating due to copy editing errors but they are minor compared to the 1st novel in the series.
Sarah Grayson is the proprietor of Second Chance, a repurpose shop in the oceanfront town of North Harbor, Maine. After solving Arthur Fenety's murder in the spring (the mystery of Book 1 in the series) Charlotte, Liz, and Rose, friends of Sarah's grandmother opened their own detective agency called "Charlotte's Angels, Discreet Investigations." As many were introduced to the original "Charlie's Angels" television series in 1976 with Jaclyn Smith, Farah Fawcett, and Kate Jackson, I love that "Charlotte's Angels" are dynamic senior citizens. They also receive computer help from Rose's boyfriend, Alfred Petersen (often called Mr. P).
I don't know who I loved more as the series began, Elvis, or the "angels" as they reminded me of the wonderful fairy godmothers to Cinderella. Each has been a dear friend to Sarah's grandmother but has also brought a special quality to Sarah's life interactions too and I'm so happy that they continue to play a very active role in the series. I was hoping this would be so and not a one disappoints.
It's delightful to think of the diversity of ages working together in the "Second Chance" shop and with the youngest and one of the oldest in charge of window displays the creativity is drawing tourists and residents into the shop. A Valentine's Day display definitely has a unique twist to delight all ages. From the descriptions of the window displays and also of the refurbished items I know I'd love to stop in myself.
I have again lowered my star rating due to copy editing errors but they are minor compared to the 1st novel in the series.
March 25, 2023
An outstanding cozy mystery. I love the characters, especially Elvis and Sarah and Mac. I also enjoyed the mystery, even though I was sad to see Lily die and there was a satisfying solution to the case. I do hope in the future (or in later books) Sarah starts dating Mac, not Nick, but that's just me. I see too much of a brotherly relationship between Sarah and Nick to date but once again that's just my opinion.
Overall, this was a thoroughly enjoyable mystery.
Overall, this was a thoroughly enjoyable mystery.
April 30, 2015
http://openbooksociety.com/article/bu...
Brought to you by OBS reviewer Daniele
It is the quieter winter months in the tourist town of North Harbor, Maine, but Sophie and her cat Elvis are busy refurbishing and repurposing items for her store Second Chance. Lucky for her, the Canadian tourists are still coming and her online sales are growing. Mac is her jack of all trades and is intensely private. Her other employees include her grandmother’s friends’ Rose and Charlotte, retired educators, and high school student Avery, whose grandmother Liz is also like a grandmother to Sarah. The older ladies have taken to calling themselves Charlotte’s Angels (in homage to the television series and movie Charlie’s Angels) and have taken over Sarah’s sun porch for their office. They see themselves as quite the detective team, although recovering a set of dentures is about as exciting as it gets since they solved their first murder (in The Whole Cat and Caboodle). They are joined by their hacker friend Alfred, who is courting Rose, in their escapades.
The town is abuzz with talk of a large waterfront development that is in the works. However, Lily, who owns the local bakery, is the last holdout, refusing to sell. As a result, her shop has been vandalized and her business threatened by sabotage. Sarah is shocked to find Lily at the bottom of the bakery’s stairs early one morning. What at first seems to be an unfortunate accident is soon revealed to be murder. While Sarah is curious, she does not actively want to investigate but wishes to leave the detecting to her childhood friends Nick, who is an investigator for the medical examiner’s office, and Detective Michelle Andrews. The Angels have other ideas, and soon Sarah finds herself caught up in trying to keep the seniors out of trouble, all the while attempting to unearth the vandal, Lily’s murderer, the identity of the development’s secret investor, and the true fate of Caleb Swift, Lily’s ex-boyfriend who was presumed dead years ago when his boat was found adrift.
Buy a Whisker is such a fun read. The characters are all well developed and multidimensional. The Angels, who all consider Sarah to be family, are a diverse, feisty bunch, both endearing in their loyalty and entertaining in their antics. Though they are at times larger than life, they still come across as real people. We should all be so lucky to have people that care so deeply for us. I particularly love Alfred and his “not always exactly legal” computer activities and his charming efforts to win Rose’s heart. Mac is deliciously mysterious keeping his past and present close to the vest. I really want to know his back story. Sarah’s shared past with Nick, Michelle, and her friends Jess and Sam add depth to the story and give the setting a nice grounded, true to life atmosphere. And one cannot forget Elvis, the Jeopardy watching, lie-detector cat.
The mystery is complete and complex. There is quite a bit going on besides Lily’s refusal to sell and murder. All of the sub mysteries blend together seamlessly and tie together to solve the main murder mystery. The motivation and identity of Lily’s killer was kept at bay until very late in the book, but the real surprise for me was the revelation of Caleb’s lot. It all meshed to create an interesting and satisfying read.
I really enjoyed Buy a Whisker, and the Second Chance Cat series is quickly becoming a favorite, must read for me. I anxiously wait for the next book release. I wholeheartedly recommend it to fans of the cozy mystery genre in general, those who enjoy some really entertaining senior citizens, and those who like the inclusion of a cat who may have a special ability.
*OBS would like to thank the publisher for supplying a free copy of this title in exchange for an honest review*
Brought to you by OBS reviewer Daniele
It is the quieter winter months in the tourist town of North Harbor, Maine, but Sophie and her cat Elvis are busy refurbishing and repurposing items for her store Second Chance. Lucky for her, the Canadian tourists are still coming and her online sales are growing. Mac is her jack of all trades and is intensely private. Her other employees include her grandmother’s friends’ Rose and Charlotte, retired educators, and high school student Avery, whose grandmother Liz is also like a grandmother to Sarah. The older ladies have taken to calling themselves Charlotte’s Angels (in homage to the television series and movie Charlie’s Angels) and have taken over Sarah’s sun porch for their office. They see themselves as quite the detective team, although recovering a set of dentures is about as exciting as it gets since they solved their first murder (in The Whole Cat and Caboodle). They are joined by their hacker friend Alfred, who is courting Rose, in their escapades.
The town is abuzz with talk of a large waterfront development that is in the works. However, Lily, who owns the local bakery, is the last holdout, refusing to sell. As a result, her shop has been vandalized and her business threatened by sabotage. Sarah is shocked to find Lily at the bottom of the bakery’s stairs early one morning. What at first seems to be an unfortunate accident is soon revealed to be murder. While Sarah is curious, she does not actively want to investigate but wishes to leave the detecting to her childhood friends Nick, who is an investigator for the medical examiner’s office, and Detective Michelle Andrews. The Angels have other ideas, and soon Sarah finds herself caught up in trying to keep the seniors out of trouble, all the while attempting to unearth the vandal, Lily’s murderer, the identity of the development’s secret investor, and the true fate of Caleb Swift, Lily’s ex-boyfriend who was presumed dead years ago when his boat was found adrift.
Buy a Whisker is such a fun read. The characters are all well developed and multidimensional. The Angels, who all consider Sarah to be family, are a diverse, feisty bunch, both endearing in their loyalty and entertaining in their antics. Though they are at times larger than life, they still come across as real people. We should all be so lucky to have people that care so deeply for us. I particularly love Alfred and his “not always exactly legal” computer activities and his charming efforts to win Rose’s heart. Mac is deliciously mysterious keeping his past and present close to the vest. I really want to know his back story. Sarah’s shared past with Nick, Michelle, and her friends Jess and Sam add depth to the story and give the setting a nice grounded, true to life atmosphere. And one cannot forget Elvis, the Jeopardy watching, lie-detector cat.
The mystery is complete and complex. There is quite a bit going on besides Lily’s refusal to sell and murder. All of the sub mysteries blend together seamlessly and tie together to solve the main murder mystery. The motivation and identity of Lily’s killer was kept at bay until very late in the book, but the real surprise for me was the revelation of Caleb’s lot. It all meshed to create an interesting and satisfying read.
I really enjoyed Buy a Whisker, and the Second Chance Cat series is quickly becoming a favorite, must read for me. I anxiously wait for the next book release. I wholeheartedly recommend it to fans of the cozy mystery genre in general, those who enjoy some really entertaining senior citizens, and those who like the inclusion of a cat who may have a special ability.
*OBS would like to thank the publisher for supplying a free copy of this title in exchange for an honest review*
July 24, 2023
“When people get desperate, they do stupid things.”
I ended up reading this twice. I didn’t plan on it, I just wanted to re-read the first few chapters to clarify my understanding of Sarah’s family. I quickly got stuck in it and had to read until the end, again. The reason I needed to read this again was because I got confused over whether Sarah’s dad died when she was little or not. Yes, he did, and yes, her mother remarried and she calls her step-dad ‘Dad’. That’s where I got confused. I missed the information about her step-dad and Liam being her step-brother. Sarah’s actual family only appears by telephone in this novel so the introductions weren’t clear during my first read through.
“When my father died, Rose, Liz and Charlotte kept my mom and Gram and me going. They didn’t just wrap their arms around us. They wrapped their lives around us. They’d always been part of my life, but they became family.”
I really like Sarah and her little found family of Charlotte, Liz, Rose, Sam, Mr. P, Avery, Elvis, and even Nick and Mac. All the characters have vibrant personalities. They also have intriguing backstories, especially Mac, who keeps his personal life very separate from his work life. I love that almost everyone in Sarah’s family (even Elvis) works at her store Second Chance - a cross between a secondhand store and an antiques shop. There’s never a dull moment in that store. It’s the base for ‘Charlotte’s Angels’, the mystery solving group consisting of Charlotte, Rose, Liz and Mr. P, despite Sarah’s attempts to dissolve it.
It’s always nice when the pets in a cozy mystery story get to play a part in solving the crime. Elvis is the perfect partner in this. He keeps his mind sharp and informed by watching Jeopardy every day, without fail. Sarah even keeps the TV on a timer so that it’s always on at Jeopardy time. Elvis can also distinguish truths from lies, though only when he feels like it.
“Jess’s theory was that Elvis was the feline version of a polygraph. Somehow he was responding to changes in a person’s heartbeat, breathing and skin…The problem was the kitty lie detector acted as one only when it suited him.”
I also want to say I love the setting of this story. I love the small-town atmosphere of North Harbour. It seems so peaceful in the wintertime. I love the setting of Sofie’s other main cozy mystery series under Sofie Kelly, the Magical Cats Mysteries, as well.
“My grandmother, who had grown up in North Harbour, said that there were only three topics of conversation in town during the winter: the blizzard that had missed us, the blizzard that was headed our way, and the blizzard we were standing in the middle of. She was more or less right.”
The only thing I didn’t really like about this book is that I sense a love triangle coming between Sarah, Nick, and Mac. I like both Nick and Mac and Sarah has such a good relationship with both of them, so I’m not looking forward to tension in those relationships. Sarah and Mac work so perfectly together in the store and are so in tune while Nick and Sarah have a long history as great friends, so I'm really not sure who will win out.
“It’s not always easy to do the right thing. It takes you down the road less traveled, and that’s a bumpy trip.”
I ended up reading this twice. I didn’t plan on it, I just wanted to re-read the first few chapters to clarify my understanding of Sarah’s family. I quickly got stuck in it and had to read until the end, again. The reason I needed to read this again was because I got confused over whether Sarah’s dad died when she was little or not. Yes, he did, and yes, her mother remarried and she calls her step-dad ‘Dad’. That’s where I got confused. I missed the information about her step-dad and Liam being her step-brother. Sarah’s actual family only appears by telephone in this novel so the introductions weren’t clear during my first read through.
“When my father died, Rose, Liz and Charlotte kept my mom and Gram and me going. They didn’t just wrap their arms around us. They wrapped their lives around us. They’d always been part of my life, but they became family.”
I really like Sarah and her little found family of Charlotte, Liz, Rose, Sam, Mr. P, Avery, Elvis, and even Nick and Mac. All the characters have vibrant personalities. They also have intriguing backstories, especially Mac, who keeps his personal life very separate from his work life. I love that almost everyone in Sarah’s family (even Elvis) works at her store Second Chance - a cross between a secondhand store and an antiques shop. There’s never a dull moment in that store. It’s the base for ‘Charlotte’s Angels’, the mystery solving group consisting of Charlotte, Rose, Liz and Mr. P, despite Sarah’s attempts to dissolve it.
It’s always nice when the pets in a cozy mystery story get to play a part in solving the crime. Elvis is the perfect partner in this. He keeps his mind sharp and informed by watching Jeopardy every day, without fail. Sarah even keeps the TV on a timer so that it’s always on at Jeopardy time. Elvis can also distinguish truths from lies, though only when he feels like it.
“Jess’s theory was that Elvis was the feline version of a polygraph. Somehow he was responding to changes in a person’s heartbeat, breathing and skin…The problem was the kitty lie detector acted as one only when it suited him.”
I also want to say I love the setting of this story. I love the small-town atmosphere of North Harbour. It seems so peaceful in the wintertime. I love the setting of Sofie’s other main cozy mystery series under Sofie Kelly, the Magical Cats Mysteries, as well.
“My grandmother, who had grown up in North Harbour, said that there were only three topics of conversation in town during the winter: the blizzard that had missed us, the blizzard that was headed our way, and the blizzard we were standing in the middle of. She was more or less right.”
The only thing I didn’t really like about this book is that I sense a love triangle coming between Sarah, Nick, and Mac. I like both Nick and Mac and Sarah has such a good relationship with both of them, so I’m not looking forward to tension in those relationships. Sarah and Mac work so perfectly together in the store and are so in tune while Nick and Sarah have a long history as great friends, so I'm really not sure who will win out.
“It’s not always easy to do the right thing. It takes you down the road less traveled, and that’s a bumpy trip.”
April 10, 2015
By A Whisker is the second book in the A Second Chance Cat Mystery series.
Thing are going well for Sarah Grayson and her store Second Chance, where she sells refurbished and/or repurposed items. She is helped at the store by Mac, her jack-of-all-trades, a retired financial adviser and an ardent sailor. Her sales staff consists of three dear friends of Grams, Rose, Charlotte and Liz. Also helping is Avery, Liz's granddaughter. A great cast of helpers and a quite humorous group, too.
Things are a little unsettled in North Harbor, Maine, Jon West of North By West, wants to redevelop the waterfront, but everyone is not in favor of the plan. One of them is Lily Carter who runs Lily's Bakery on the waterfront. She refuses to sell her bakery and the project is looking to be doomed. Someone has been pulling pranks and minor defacing of the bakery, but when Lily is found dead at the bottom of the basement stair in the bakery it is clear about someone wanting Lily out of the way for the project to progress.
Liz is first suspected, but is soon cleared, but Charlotte's Angels, has already started to do a little detecting of their own. They first start looking into Jon West, since without the bakery in his pocket, the redevelopment will be doomed. But there are also a couple building owners who would like to sell there properties, maybe that have gotten tired of waiting For Lily to sell and have taken matters into their own hands.
A wonderful story and an enjoyable bunch of characters. Charlotte's Angels are a real treat. They may not all agree with each other all the time, but they are always there to support each other and provide some laughs, particularly Rose. And of course Elvis is around to help find the murderer, too.
Looking forward to the next book and to see if there might be romance in the future for Sarah.
Thing are going well for Sarah Grayson and her store Second Chance, where she sells refurbished and/or repurposed items. She is helped at the store by Mac, her jack-of-all-trades, a retired financial adviser and an ardent sailor. Her sales staff consists of three dear friends of Grams, Rose, Charlotte and Liz. Also helping is Avery, Liz's granddaughter. A great cast of helpers and a quite humorous group, too.
Things are a little unsettled in North Harbor, Maine, Jon West of North By West, wants to redevelop the waterfront, but everyone is not in favor of the plan. One of them is Lily Carter who runs Lily's Bakery on the waterfront. She refuses to sell her bakery and the project is looking to be doomed. Someone has been pulling pranks and minor defacing of the bakery, but when Lily is found dead at the bottom of the basement stair in the bakery it is clear about someone wanting Lily out of the way for the project to progress.
Liz is first suspected, but is soon cleared, but Charlotte's Angels, has already started to do a little detecting of their own. They first start looking into Jon West, since without the bakery in his pocket, the redevelopment will be doomed. But there are also a couple building owners who would like to sell there properties, maybe that have gotten tired of waiting For Lily to sell and have taken matters into their own hands.
A wonderful story and an enjoyable bunch of characters. Charlotte's Angels are a real treat. They may not all agree with each other all the time, but they are always there to support each other and provide some laughs, particularly Rose. And of course Elvis is around to help find the murderer, too.
Looking forward to the next book and to see if there might be romance in the future for Sarah.
September 13, 2016
Another murder has struck close to the Second Chance Shop and one of their own is implicated in the murder! That brings Charlie's Angels to the case (think Golden Girls version of Charlie's Angels) with Sarah trying to keep them out of trouble and danger! With her trusty cat, Elvis, Sarah must figure out who the killer is before one of the "Angels" is hurt in the crossfire, but will she be in time or will she herself be the next shop owner to get "whacked!" This is the second book in the series and I'm so thrilled I came back for another visit. The character development is much deeper and richer with a plot that will actually keep you guessing. While you could read this as a stand alone book, by reading the first book in the series you get to know the characters much better as well as the town and its inner workings. I'm looking forward to book 3 in the series and can't wait to head over to the library to find it! If you like a good, entertaining cozy mystery then I think you will find this series very much to your liking. I particularly like that the cast of characters is a diversified cast as you have a group of elderly women trying to be protected by Sarah and her friends who are 30ish and then you have a teenager and her friends showing up on the scene as well as a host of men of various ages. It makes for an interesting assortment of cross-friendships that are realistic and enjoyable!
I was selected by the author to receive a copy of the book in exchange for an honest review. The review and my statements are my true opinion. It's a well developed cast of characters that any cozy mystery reader would quite enjoy.
I was selected by the author to receive a copy of the book in exchange for an honest review. The review and my statements are my true opinion. It's a well developed cast of characters that any cozy mystery reader would quite enjoy.
August 19, 2016
Sarah Grayson has moved back to North Harbor, Maine. Her antiques shop, "Second Chance" is doing well and she loves her new life.
Along with being a businesswoman, Sarah has also found she has a talent for solving mysteries, with the aid of a lovable group of "mature" women nicknamed " Charlotte's Angels" - friends of Sarah's grandmother, who has passed away. They get her in and out of trouble, meddle in and make Sarah's life far from boring! A handsome business partner, a dashing senior computer hacker, a childhood crush and a cool cat named Elvis ( who frequently leaves the building) are also part of the crew.
Sarah becomes involved in solving the murder of a lone "holdout" to a development deal that will change North Harbor forever. Hopefully,she can solve the crime before she or the "Angels" become the next victims.
Buy a Whisker has all the elements I enjoy in a cozy - a "whodunit" that keeps you guessing, a little romance, a quaint setting with eccentric and lovable characters and, of course a furry friend (like the charmer Elvis) that helps solve the crime!
Sofie Ryan has created a series filled with mystery, humor friendship and romance that I love. I can't wait for the next book!
I received an ARC for a fair and honest review.
Along with being a businesswoman, Sarah has also found she has a talent for solving mysteries, with the aid of a lovable group of "mature" women nicknamed " Charlotte's Angels" - friends of Sarah's grandmother, who has passed away. They get her in and out of trouble, meddle in and make Sarah's life far from boring! A handsome business partner, a dashing senior computer hacker, a childhood crush and a cool cat named Elvis ( who frequently leaves the building) are also part of the crew.
Sarah becomes involved in solving the murder of a lone "holdout" to a development deal that will change North Harbor forever. Hopefully,she can solve the crime before she or the "Angels" become the next victims.
Buy a Whisker has all the elements I enjoy in a cozy - a "whodunit" that keeps you guessing, a little romance, a quaint setting with eccentric and lovable characters and, of course a furry friend (like the charmer Elvis) that helps solve the crime!
Sofie Ryan has created a series filled with mystery, humor friendship and romance that I love. I can't wait for the next book!
I received an ARC for a fair and honest review.
December 17, 2019
It's weird reading about a cat named Elvis who isn't Siamese and doesn't say he wants a cookie. SSDGM.
March 23, 2024
Loved it
I really like this series, Elvis is a funny character who really brightens up the story.
The deep friendship among the women really makes this series shine.
I really like this series, Elvis is a funny character who really brightens up the story.
The deep friendship among the women really makes this series shine.
August 27, 2019
4.25 stars - rated pg13 but with one or two instances of heavy pg13/mild r-lite (see below)
I loved the first book, I liked this second book, and I’m looking forward to starting book three. I enjoy the author’s writing style and I love when I can laugh during a cozy mystery. I like reading about the main character’s shop and all the things she repurposes for resale. The senior citizens in Sarah’s life were, once again, hilarious. The one thing I didn’t like was the last three paragraphs of the book (nothing to do with the actual mystery) -- kind of an odd twist which is, I assume, setting up book three.
These books are standalones, but I strongly suggest reading them in order so that you can get to know the personalities of the characters and the changing dynamics of their relationships.
(For the most part, this book would be pg13 with just a few instances of expletives, things like “hell” and “damn squirrel”. But, unfortunately, there are one or two instances where the book dipped to heavy pg13/mild r-lite; such as a running, humorous-but-somewhat-tacky, thread about one of the senior citizens in the group who French-kissed Steven Tyler of Aerosmith at a concert years ago when they were younger. There is mention of having a fling and tongue wrestling. And then page 220 has a tawdry and inappropriate comment meant to be funny but that I found tacky. Overall, these things were fairly insignificant to the story, but I would still say that this is not appropriate for younger readers.)
I loved the first book, I liked this second book, and I’m looking forward to starting book three. I enjoy the author’s writing style and I love when I can laugh during a cozy mystery. I like reading about the main character’s shop and all the things she repurposes for resale. The senior citizens in Sarah’s life were, once again, hilarious. The one thing I didn’t like was the last three paragraphs of the book (nothing to do with the actual mystery) -- kind of an odd twist which is, I assume, setting up book three.
These books are standalones, but I strongly suggest reading them in order so that you can get to know the personalities of the characters and the changing dynamics of their relationships.
(For the most part, this book would be pg13 with just a few instances of expletives, things like “hell” and “damn squirrel”. But, unfortunately, there are one or two instances where the book dipped to heavy pg13/mild r-lite; such as a running, humorous-but-somewhat-tacky, thread about one of the senior citizens in the group who French-kissed Steven Tyler of Aerosmith at a concert years ago when they were younger. There is mention of having a fling and tongue wrestling. And then page 220 has a tawdry and inappropriate comment meant to be funny but that I found tacky. Overall, these things were fairly insignificant to the story, but I would still say that this is not appropriate for younger readers.)
September 25, 2017
For some months now, I've been drawn to cozy-mysteries, especially those with cats in them. And I'm not sure why, except they provide the comfort like ice cream or pizza. So when I saw my Goodreads friend Chaitra's review of The Whole Cat and Caboodle, I knew I'd found another delightful series. And the second entry to The Second Chance Cat Mystery Series is as charming as was the first.
"Elvis had left the building. I watched him make his way across the snow-packed front walk to my SUV, parked in the driveway."
Elvis is Sarah's cat, not the King of Rock n Roll. I'd love to see Sarah's Valentine's Day window, and the story of Rose and Steven Tyler had me in stitches. All of the characters have such comradeship between them. It almost makes me wish they were real so I can hang out in Sarah's vintage/re-purpose shop - Second Chance. And my eyebrow did go up at whom Sarah called "to talk" at the very end of the novel. I just may have to read the third entry sooner then expected.
New Harbor, ME is somewhat divided. A developer is trying to buy up several businesses downtown. Lily Carter is the sole hold out. She refuses to sell. She also refuses to say why. (Now, her reason didn't seem silly to me as Chaitra found it to be. I can understand her reasoning.) Lily's been having some trouble - her bakery has been egged, broken into, etc. And then one morning Sarah find's the baker dead at the bottom of basement stairs. And a suspect is quickly identified - Liz.
Charlotte's Angels are back in business sniffing out the real killer.
"Elvis had left the building. I watched him make his way across the snow-packed front walk to my SUV, parked in the driveway."
Elvis is Sarah's cat, not the King of Rock n Roll. I'd love to see Sarah's Valentine's Day window, and the story of Rose and Steven Tyler had me in stitches. All of the characters have such comradeship between them. It almost makes me wish they were real so I can hang out in Sarah's vintage/re-purpose shop - Second Chance. And my eyebrow did go up at whom Sarah called "to talk" at the very end of the novel. I just may have to read the third entry sooner then expected.
New Harbor, ME is somewhat divided. A developer is trying to buy up several businesses downtown. Lily Carter is the sole hold out. She refuses to sell. She also refuses to say why. (Now, her reason didn't seem silly to me as Chaitra found it to be. I can understand her reasoning.) Lily's been having some trouble - her bakery has been egged, broken into, etc. And then one morning Sarah find's the baker dead at the bottom of basement stairs. And a suspect is quickly identified - Liz.
Charlotte's Angels are back in business sniffing out the real killer.
July 17, 2023
Buy A Whisker by Sofie Ryan, is great, I am enjoying the main character’s family and all the tips for rehabilitating furniture that people bring in from dumpsters! I used to watch p ickers on TV to find things that can be rescued and the main character. Sophie Grayson has a business, Second Chance, that buys from pickers and she and her employees fix them up to sell. I enjoyed reading about what she did with the furniture. Her friends are all great characters so I got interested in them before I did in the mystery. As the book proceeds, more suspects appear and
I ended up staying up late at night to find out who was the murderer.
Rose is my favorite character, a senior with no fear and plenty of determination. Elvis the black cat has the unusual ability to be a lie detector when Sophie interviews the suspects. Sophie seems to be more of a dog person instead cat person but Elvis helps her solve mysteries.
I ended up staying up late at night to find out who was the murderer.
Rose is my favorite character, a senior with no fear and plenty of determination. Elvis the black cat has the unusual ability to be a lie detector when Sophie interviews the suspects. Sophie seems to be more of a dog person instead cat person but Elvis helps her solve mysteries.
February 4, 2019
Sarah has plenty to do to keep herself busy. Finding and repurposing items to sell in her shop keeps her and her small staff hopping. Unfortunately, she gets involved in the redevelopment of the waterfront, and when the lone holdout not in favor of selling to the developer is found dead, Sarah feels she needs to ferret out the killer. It’s rather a tangled trail to the murderer and a sad one, and Sarah puts herself in jeopardy in trying to find the clues to the killer. Cozy readers are sure to enjoy this story and others in this delightful and well-written series.
May 10, 2020
I love a good cozy. But my pet peeve is when the characters just do crazy things for the sake of the plot. This book is probably one of my favorites that I've read recently. All the actions make sense. The characters are varied, well developed and work well together. Great pacing and plot. I didn't want to put this one down.
March 28, 2020
Another cosy mystery with murder, humour and great friendship. Elvis is a star but my curiosity is around Mac.
March 18, 2023
I like the characters and how they interact. Even the teenager is respected and accepted among them all. In this one, they set up a Kiss display in the shops window for valentines day.
February 4, 2018
I thoroughly enjoyed this mystery with its gentle humor and likable characters. I enjoy suspense novels, serial killers, and the like, but sometimes I want a mystery that will make me smile. The writing in some ways reminded of Carolyn Hart's books, though I admit it's been years since I read one so I'm not sure the comparison is accurate.
August 17, 2025
Not a fan of the cat with the ability to detect liars
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 30, 2016
‘Buy a Whisker’ is a fun, exciting second offering in the Second Chance Cat Mystery series, in which I was able to connect with the characters and Elvis the Cat. Sarah and her pampered puss, Elvis, are the heroine and hero of this delightful story. What can I say about a cozy that begins with ‘Elvis had left the building’ (page 1)? His invaluable help as a feline lie detector and encourager extraordinaire to Sarah and the gang of seniors known as “Charlotte’s Angels”, friends of her grandmother who wanted to ‘help’ the police solve various crimes.
A developer had convinced all property owners where they planned a waterfront project, including a hotel and shopping center, in North Harbor, Maine, where they believed any shop owners would profit tremendously if leasing space when available. It was claimed that there would be many more tourists who would change the face of retail in their town. Every shop owner, that is, except for Lily, whose bakery had been a mainstay in that area. Her bakery was the last holdout – and roadblock – to demoing existing buildings to make way for the new project. When Sarah found Lily dead from what appeared to be a fall down the basement steps of her shop, and it was determined to be murder, the first suspect was the developer. Those whose property sales were held up due to her refusal to sell might be cash-strapped and trying to hang on until she sold. Sarah wanted justice for Lily, but those who knew she was searching, and that she was the one who had found Lily, had their eyes on her. And she wanted to find the bad guy(s)/ gal(s) before anything could happen to Charlotte’s Angels, who were also on the case.
The author is amazing at designing her characters to have the most impact. I like Sarah and her friends, including Charlotte’s Angels; they are creative and bring their own unique talents and skills to the shop of repurposed and vintage goods. Who better to run – and help out in – a Second Chance shop but those who have repurposed their abilities to something new and different than they have done before? Even Elvis, the former stray, has found new purpose and home with this eclectic group of people who Sarah has called family for most of her life. Nick, son of one of the ladies, and Sarah have known each other much of their lives; Mac, a free spirit who has found his new chance working for Sarah while pursuing his passion during the warmer weather. He is a gem who can do almost anything Sarah needs, including finishing the apartment in her building that one of the Angels, Rose, will live in. Liz’s teen granddaughter Avery is also a jewel, whose energy and creativity bring a much-needed youthful point of view.
The plot is excellent, especially in this era of tearing down the old to put in something new. The plot twists send Sarah, as well as the Angels, in different directions, bringing more excitement and suspense. Trying to determine who the bad guy(s) or gal(s) is a real challenge, and this reader was definitely stumped after chasing after a couple red herrings. The resolution and ending were more than satisfactory, and I’m looking forward to the next adventure. Sofie Ryan knows how to entice the reader through cats, characters and circumstances! I highly recommend ‘Buy a Whisker’ to those who enjoy cozy mysteries, cats, refurbishing/ repurposing projects, and the company of folks from seniors to teens and all ages between.
A developer had convinced all property owners where they planned a waterfront project, including a hotel and shopping center, in North Harbor, Maine, where they believed any shop owners would profit tremendously if leasing space when available. It was claimed that there would be many more tourists who would change the face of retail in their town. Every shop owner, that is, except for Lily, whose bakery had been a mainstay in that area. Her bakery was the last holdout – and roadblock – to demoing existing buildings to make way for the new project. When Sarah found Lily dead from what appeared to be a fall down the basement steps of her shop, and it was determined to be murder, the first suspect was the developer. Those whose property sales were held up due to her refusal to sell might be cash-strapped and trying to hang on until she sold. Sarah wanted justice for Lily, but those who knew she was searching, and that she was the one who had found Lily, had their eyes on her. And she wanted to find the bad guy(s)/ gal(s) before anything could happen to Charlotte’s Angels, who were also on the case.
The author is amazing at designing her characters to have the most impact. I like Sarah and her friends, including Charlotte’s Angels; they are creative and bring their own unique talents and skills to the shop of repurposed and vintage goods. Who better to run – and help out in – a Second Chance shop but those who have repurposed their abilities to something new and different than they have done before? Even Elvis, the former stray, has found new purpose and home with this eclectic group of people who Sarah has called family for most of her life. Nick, son of one of the ladies, and Sarah have known each other much of their lives; Mac, a free spirit who has found his new chance working for Sarah while pursuing his passion during the warmer weather. He is a gem who can do almost anything Sarah needs, including finishing the apartment in her building that one of the Angels, Rose, will live in. Liz’s teen granddaughter Avery is also a jewel, whose energy and creativity bring a much-needed youthful point of view.
The plot is excellent, especially in this era of tearing down the old to put in something new. The plot twists send Sarah, as well as the Angels, in different directions, bringing more excitement and suspense. Trying to determine who the bad guy(s) or gal(s) is a real challenge, and this reader was definitely stumped after chasing after a couple red herrings. The resolution and ending were more than satisfactory, and I’m looking forward to the next adventure. Sofie Ryan knows how to entice the reader through cats, characters and circumstances! I highly recommend ‘Buy a Whisker’ to those who enjoy cozy mysteries, cats, refurbishing/ repurposing projects, and the company of folks from seniors to teens and all ages between.
October 10, 2017
You can also find this review at https://booksbestfriendblog.wordpress...
Buy a Whisker is the Second Book in the Second Chance Cat Mystery series, following The Whole Cat and Caboodle. This is shaping up to be a nice, cozy, but somewhat bland mystery series. Sarah Grayson is just trying to work peacefully in her resale shop while praying that the older women who helped raise her stick to solving small mysteries like missing dentures. However, that hope goes out the window when a local bakery owner is found dead at the bottom of her basement stairs. Several things are suspicious about her death, including that fact that she was the only holdout blocking a major redevelopment downtown. The proposed plans could bring a lot of money to the area, but need her property to proceed. As Sarah’s grandmother’s friends start digging into the case, Sarah is dragged along with Elvis, her feline lie-detector.
Overall, this is a good mystery with a warm, small town setting and decent clues/red herrings throughout. I love the grandmother detectives, but I wanted Elvis to play a bigger role. I prefer Diesel pulling key evidence from a handbag in search of snacks or Koko’s peculiar literary taste when knocking down relevant books for Qwill to find. I don’t like the cats to take a backseat in their own cat mystery series.
I recommend this to anyone looking for a nice, cozy mystery to curl up with while drinking tea this winter.
Buy a Whisker is the Second Book in the Second Chance Cat Mystery series, following The Whole Cat and Caboodle. This is shaping up to be a nice, cozy, but somewhat bland mystery series. Sarah Grayson is just trying to work peacefully in her resale shop while praying that the older women who helped raise her stick to solving small mysteries like missing dentures. However, that hope goes out the window when a local bakery owner is found dead at the bottom of her basement stairs. Several things are suspicious about her death, including that fact that she was the only holdout blocking a major redevelopment downtown. The proposed plans could bring a lot of money to the area, but need her property to proceed. As Sarah’s grandmother’s friends start digging into the case, Sarah is dragged along with Elvis, her feline lie-detector.
Overall, this is a good mystery with a warm, small town setting and decent clues/red herrings throughout. I love the grandmother detectives, but I wanted Elvis to play a bigger role. I prefer Diesel pulling key evidence from a handbag in search of snacks or Koko’s peculiar literary taste when knocking down relevant books for Qwill to find. I don’t like the cats to take a backseat in their own cat mystery series.
I recommend this to anyone looking for a nice, cozy mystery to curl up with while drinking tea this winter.
September 12, 2016
Sarah runs her second hand shop, Second Chance, in the small town in Maine where she used to spend her summers with her grandparents. Now she lives there full time and has help with around the store from all of her grandmother’s dearest friends. Needless to say, she doesn’t need anyone else to mother her or nose in her personal business!
The lovely little seaside town is in the midst of a controversy over a new waterfront development that is trying to revitalize their village. Most everyone is for the development as it will be very financially beneficial to the town but there is one hold out, Lily and her bakery that is right smack dab in the middle of the future construction site. Someone desperately wants both Lily and her building gone!
There is quite a cast of characters in North Harbor, Maine! At the beginning of the book I was a bit confused when trying to keep everyone straight but after a few chapters I had it pretty much straight. I liked Sarah, the main character, and loved the talk of her shop and of her redoing old furniture and other household items.
Also, all of the older grandma-like ladies in her life (Charlotte, Rose, Liz, etc.) were quite spunky and funny! The only thing that bothered me was I thought some of the Elvis the cat stuff was a bit hokey but I don’t mind allowing for a bit of the unbelievable when reading a good story. A cat that can detect when someone is lying? I’ve read a lot more unbelievable stuff!
I used to read a lot of cozy mystery books but I haven’t in quite a while because a lot of them became immature and just too cheesy for my liking. Buy a Whisker is definitely back in that genre but I enjoyed it quite a bit more than I thought I would! The characters are fun and have just enough mystery still in some of their backgrounds that I would like to read more in this series and get to know them better.
The mystery was not something I saw coming from the beginning which is always a plus for me. I wasn’t necessarily surprised at the end but I was kept moving right along in the investigation with “Charlotte’s Angels” so it kept me reading and wondering-always important! If you like a good, cozy and light mystery with some fun background characters you will enjoy Buy a Whisker.
*I was given a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review*
http://stephsbookramblings.blogspot.com/
The lovely little seaside town is in the midst of a controversy over a new waterfront development that is trying to revitalize their village. Most everyone is for the development as it will be very financially beneficial to the town but there is one hold out, Lily and her bakery that is right smack dab in the middle of the future construction site. Someone desperately wants both Lily and her building gone!
There is quite a cast of characters in North Harbor, Maine! At the beginning of the book I was a bit confused when trying to keep everyone straight but after a few chapters I had it pretty much straight. I liked Sarah, the main character, and loved the talk of her shop and of her redoing old furniture and other household items.
Also, all of the older grandma-like ladies in her life (Charlotte, Rose, Liz, etc.) were quite spunky and funny! The only thing that bothered me was I thought some of the Elvis the cat stuff was a bit hokey but I don’t mind allowing for a bit of the unbelievable when reading a good story. A cat that can detect when someone is lying? I’ve read a lot more unbelievable stuff!
I used to read a lot of cozy mystery books but I haven’t in quite a while because a lot of them became immature and just too cheesy for my liking. Buy a Whisker is definitely back in that genre but I enjoyed it quite a bit more than I thought I would! The characters are fun and have just enough mystery still in some of their backgrounds that I would like to read more in this series and get to know them better.
The mystery was not something I saw coming from the beginning which is always a plus for me. I wasn’t necessarily surprised at the end but I was kept moving right along in the investigation with “Charlotte’s Angels” so it kept me reading and wondering-always important! If you like a good, cozy and light mystery with some fun background characters you will enjoy Buy a Whisker.
*I was given a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review*
http://stephsbookramblings.blogspot.com/
April 14, 2016
I was excited to see a brand new Elvis the Cat book. Yes, I’ve decided this is Elvis’ series :) I loved the first one and this latest one did not disappoint. I loved it even more. Elvis gets cuter all the time :) Figures I’d start out this review by gushing about the cat instead of focusing on the story. LOL
So, let me turn my attention to the story. Lily, the local baker, has upset everyone in town by refusing to sell her store to a developer. Thanks to her refusal, the developer plans to go elsewhere causing the town to lose money. Lily refuses to listen to reason or even to relocate. Someone takes matters into their own hands. When Lily is found dead, the search is on to find the guilty party.
Sarah Grayson, owner of Second Chance where she sells refurbished and repurposed items, is determined to stay out of the investigation. However, thanks to her grandmother’s friends, Charlotte’s Angels, she dragged right into the middle of things. The Angels have formed their own group and investigate murders on their own, much to the police department’s dismay. This time one of their own is accused of the murder and they aren’t about to stand by and let that happen.
This is a cozy at its finest. You have a strong amateur sleuth surrounded by a small knit group who rally around each other in their time of need. Sarah even has two romantic possibilities with one being a local police officer. Of course you also have a small town setting. It’s all rolled into one delightful package. The bad thing? We have to wait until February 2016 for the next book in the series, but I will be there when it’s released.
FTC Disclosure: The publisher provided me with a copy of this book to review for this blog tour. This did not influence my thoughts and opinions in any way. All opinions expressed are my own.
So, let me turn my attention to the story. Lily, the local baker, has upset everyone in town by refusing to sell her store to a developer. Thanks to her refusal, the developer plans to go elsewhere causing the town to lose money. Lily refuses to listen to reason or even to relocate. Someone takes matters into their own hands. When Lily is found dead, the search is on to find the guilty party.
Sarah Grayson, owner of Second Chance where she sells refurbished and repurposed items, is determined to stay out of the investigation. However, thanks to her grandmother’s friends, Charlotte’s Angels, she dragged right into the middle of things. The Angels have formed their own group and investigate murders on their own, much to the police department’s dismay. This time one of their own is accused of the murder and they aren’t about to stand by and let that happen.
This is a cozy at its finest. You have a strong amateur sleuth surrounded by a small knit group who rally around each other in their time of need. Sarah even has two romantic possibilities with one being a local police officer. Of course you also have a small town setting. It’s all rolled into one delightful package. The bad thing? We have to wait until February 2016 for the next book in the series, but I will be there when it’s released.
FTC Disclosure: The publisher provided me with a copy of this book to review for this blog tour. This did not influence my thoughts and opinions in any way. All opinions expressed are my own.
April 15, 2015
After reading the 1st in this series last year, I was eagerly anticipating the next one. I was not disappointed. This is a great series, set in Maine, with a mix of characters, both young and old. The old folks in the story aren't annoying as they are in some series and in some ways, are more outgoing and active than the younger ones. I am sensing a Sofie Ryan/Sofie Kelly pattern with the old and young characters as I read her magical cats series and there's a similar vibe going on in that set of books as well.
The main mystery in the story was a little obvious but the secondary mystery was not. I thought we might not get the conclusion of that storyline but we did and it had an interesting twist to it.
I thought the romance was a little lacking in this one and I also fear that the author is going to head down love triangle lane, which I know several reviewers are not fond of.
I really love the setting and the characters in this series and and I definitely look forward to the next in the series!
The main mystery in the story was a little obvious but the secondary mystery was not. I thought we might not get the conclusion of that storyline but we did and it had an interesting twist to it.
I thought the romance was a little lacking in this one and I also fear that the author is going to head down love triangle lane, which I know several reviewers are not fond of.
I really love the setting and the characters in this series and and I definitely look forward to the next in the series!
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