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Cat Lady Mysteries #2

Claws of Death

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The meow of death . . .

Whisker Jog, New Hampshire, is a long way from Hollywood, but it’s the place legendary actress Deanna Daltry wants to call home. Taking up residence in a stone mansion off Cemetery Hill, the retired, yet still glamorous, septuagenarian has adopted two kittens from Lara Caphart’s High Cliff Shelter for Cats. With help from her Aunt Fran, Lara makes sure the kitties settle in safely with their new celebrity mom.

But not everyone in town is a fan of the fading star. Deanna was in Whisker Jog when she was younger, earning a reputation for pussyfooting around, and someone is using that knowledge against her. After being frightened by some nasty pranks, Deanna finds herself the prime murder suspect when the body of a local teacher is found on her property. Now, it’s up to Lara, Aunt Fran, and the blue-eyed Ragdoll mystery cat Lara recently encountered to collar a killer before another victim is pounced upon . . .

216 pages, Kindle Edition

First published June 26, 2018

185 people are currently reading
848 people want to read

About the author

Linda Reilly

14 books793 followers
Linda Reilly is a mystery writer living with her two feline assistants in southern New Hampshire. She is a member of Sisters in Crime, Mystery Writers of America, and Cat Writers' Association.

Her Grilled Cheese Mystery series featuring grilled cheese lover Carly Hale debuted in January 2022, published by Poisoned Pen Press.

Her first cozy mystery, Some Enchanted Murder, was a finalist for the 2014 Silver Falchion Award in the category "Best First Novel: Cozy, Traditional and Historical."

Linda is also the author of the Cat Lady Mysteries published by Kensington Lyrical and of the Deep Fried mysteries published by Berkley Prime Crime.

ESCAPE CLAWS, her first Cat Lady Mystery, was selected by Modern Cat Magazine, Connie's Book Club, as a "must read" in the Spring/Summer 2018 issue.

CLAWS OF ACTION, her fourth Cat Lady Mystery, was awarded a Certificate of Excellence by the Cat Writers' Association in its 2019 Communications Contest.

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 99 reviews
Profile Image for Lisa Ks Book Reviews.
842 reviews139 followers
July 30, 2018
I was so happy to finally get to read CLAWS OF DEATH! After reading the first book in the series, ESCAPE CLAWS, I knew this was a series that would half a place on my bookshelves.

It was a great amount of fun to return to Whisper Jog, New Hampshire, and spend time with Lara, Aunt Fran, and all the other delightful residents of the small town. Author Linda Reilly writes characters that I would be friends with. I can see myself spending any enjoyable hours in the company of these people, Just as I spend many enjoyable hours reading about them.

CLAWS OF DEATH is a wonderfully written story that captured my attention on page one and fed my imagination until the very last page. The mystery aspect is well crafted and intriguing, with just the right amount of twists and turns to challenge my guesses. A real page turned that I hated to see end.

I give CLAWS OF DEATH 2 paws up and 5 meows!
Profile Image for Mary Brown.
1,298 reviews74 followers
June 28, 2018
Claws Of Death
Cat Lady Mysteries, Book #2
Linda Reilly
5 Stars

Synopsis:

The meow of death . . .

Whisker Jog, New Hampshire, is a long way from Hollywood, but it’s the place legendary actress Deanna Daltry wants to call home. Taking up residence in a stone mansion off Cemetery Hill, the retired, yet still glamorous, septuagenarian has adopted two kittens from Lara Caphart’s High Cliff Shelter for Cats. With help from her Aunt Fran, Lara makes sure the kitties settle in safely with their new celebrity mom.

But not everyone in town is a fan of the fading star. Deanna was in Whisker Jog when she was younger, earning a reputation for pussyfooting around, and someone is using that knowledge against her. After being frightened by some nasty pranks, Deanna finds herself the prime murder suspect when the body of a local teacher is found on her property. Now, it’s up to Lara, Aunt Fran, and the blue-eyed Ragdoll mystery cat Lara recently encountered to collar a killer before another victim is pounced upon . . .

Praise for Linda Reilly’s Deep Fried Mysteries

“I thoroughly enjoyed this puzzler of a mystery. Reilly cooks up a perfect recipe of murder and mayhem in this charming cozy.” —Jenn McKinlay, New York Times bestselling author of the Hat Shop Mysteries

“Smart, sassy, and a little bit scary. Everything a good cozy should be!” —Laura Childs, New York Times bestselling author of the Tea Shop Mysteries

“Everything I want in a cozy mystery: endearing characters, an enchanting setting, tantalizing food descriptions and a top-notch mystery plot!” —Susan Furlong, author of the Georgia Peach Mysteries (Goodreads)


Review:

The characters are well rounded and well developed. I very much enjoyed getting to spend more time with Lara and Aunt Fran. Their relationship seems natural and realistic. They may not always agree on everything but you never doubt their love for each other. The secondary characters added a lot to the story and I am interested to see if Kayla makes an appearance in future books. And all of the cats are as important of characters as any of the human, and I love this aspect of the series. And I loved Blue, Lara’s magical cat. He is very helpful in guiding Lara along the path that she should take.

The author is very talented in her descriptive writing. Through much of the book I felt like I was right there, watching all of the action taking place and listening to conversations. The writing style flows smoothly and the book is an easy read. The pacing moved along at a steady pace and kept me engaged through the entire story.

The mystery was well plotted and there were enough clues to sift through and suspects to consider. There were some twists and turns that I did not see coming and it was not an easy mystery to solve. Which is just how I like my mysteries.

I would highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a well crafted cozy mystery. And if you like animals in your cozies, check this book out.

I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book provided by the publisher, Kensington Books, and NetGalley, which I greatly appreciate.



Profile Image for Sarah.
Author 23 books736 followers
October 5, 2018
It was so much fun to return to Whisker Jog and the High Cliff Shelter for Cats in this second Cat Lady Mystery! The characters are fun to spend time with and all the cats are adorable. The mystery kept me guessing until the end with all its twists and turns. I hope this series will continue for a long time!
Profile Image for Betty.
2,004 reviews73 followers
June 2, 2018
The book is the second one in the in the Cat Lady mystery series. Information about cat behavior is woven into the story. Lara and Aunt Fran have open a cat shelter in Whisper Jog, New Hampshire. Both of them volunteer at a tea for Deanna Daltry, a well -known actress who has brought a Victorian home as she is retiring and returning to her hometown. The pair meet Deanna at the tea the actress invites them to visit her at a mansion. Lara received a frantic phone from Deanna to come immediately as there is deadman in her garden. I HIGHLY recommend this book and series.
Recipe for Blueberry Buckle.

Disclosure: Many thanks to Kensington Press for a review copy. The opinions expressed are my own.
Profile Image for Cozybooklady .
2,177 reviews119 followers
July 30, 2018
Claws of Death is the second book in the cat lady series. I absolutely loved this book. I laughed, cried and had a great time with the book.
When legendary actress Deanna Daltry returns home to Whisker Jog, NH, one of her first stops in the cat sanctuary, owned and operated by Lara and her Aunt Fran.
Even though Lara is a bit starstruck, she can't help becoming involved in another murder investigation, especially when Deanna is involved.
Lara and Aunt Fran are fantastic characters and this book was a definite plus to the series.
I was engaged from the first sentence and was a tad disappointed when I finished. I wanted the book to keep on going!
I can't wait to read the next book in this series.
I volunteered to read and review an ARC of this book provided by the publisher and NetGalley.
Profile Image for Kristina Anderson.
4,053 reviews83 followers
July 13, 2018
Claws of Death by Linda Reilly is the second A Cat Lady Mystery. Deanna Daltry, the actress, is coming to Whisker Jog, New Hampshire and she wishes to adopt a cat to keep her company in her newly renovated mansion. When Deanna shows up for her appointment at Lara Caphart’s High Cliff Shelter for Cats she falls in love with two adorable kittens. The next day at the Ladies Association Welcome Tea and Reception for Deanna, someone puts worms in Deanna’s purse and then leaves a threatening message on her car. It seems Deanna’s antics from her youth are coming back to haunt her. When Lara and Aunt Fran drop off the kittens at Deanna’s home, Lara, thanks to Blue, spots a person slumped against a tombstone in the graveyard. They rush to the graveyard, but it is too late to save Donald Waitt. Deanna dated Don in high school and had not spoken to him until the day before at the tea. Deanna requests that Lara use her sleuthing skills to find Don’s murderer. With the help of Aunt Fran and the mysterious Blue, Lara sets out to trap a killer.

Claws of Death is a cute cozy mystery. I found the book to be nicely written, have a good flow and steady pacing. Claws of Death is set in animal friendly small town with caring residents (for the most part). While Claws of Death is the second book in A Cat Lady Mystery series, it can be read alone. I liked Blue, the Ragdoll ghost cat. It added a mystical element that enhanced the story. There are many delightful moments with cats. As Lana and her newest employee take care of the animals at the shelter, adoption days, and the sweet little girl that comes to read to them. There are lovely, relatable characters in A Cat Lady Mystery series. Lara and Aunt Fran who have turned their home into an animal shelter, Gideon who is Lara’s boyfriend and lawyer, Kayla Ramirez who is the newest employee of the shelter, and Chief Jerry Whitley who enforces the law for the town and is dating Fran. Claws of Death is predominantly more cozy than mystery. The murder is investigated but the animals and the personal relationships take precedence. I thought the whodunit was simple, and I accurately identified the guilty party before Don was found in the graveyard. The why and how are discovered later in the book. I am giving Claws of Death 3 out of 5 stars. Travel to Whisker Jog in Claws of Death to meet the friendly townspeople, the adorable felines, find out who is playing pranks on Deanna and discover who did away with Don.
Profile Image for Jenny Kales.
Author 8 books284 followers
July 14, 2018
I loved this one: I couldn’t put it down!

Linda Reilly has created a solid mystery and enjoyable cast of characters with CLAWS OF DEATH, her second installment in the Cat Lady Mystery series. This book finds Lara and Aunt Fran well established in the community as a cat refuge and they are happily connecting their kitties with the deserving citizens of Whisker Jog. Business has been so good that they have been able to hire a new employee. Lara is even in a blossoming relationship with hunky Gideon.

However, quiet, picturesque Whisker Jog, New Hampshire receives a major shakeup when actress and former Whisker Jog resident Deanna Daltry comes to town. Most of the town is starstruck, but not everyone has welcoming words for the glamorous but down-to-earth star. When Deanna adopts a pair of cats from Lara and Aunt Fran, Lara has no idea she’ll be sucked into another frightening murder, this time with a famous actress and client as the main suspect.

It seems that Deanna may be hiding some secrets from her colorful past. And she’s not the only one! I loved this cozy mystery, with its seamless storytelling and wonderful descriptive writing that made me feel as if I were right there. The mystery is well plotted, with lots of great clues and red herrings, yet I was completely surprised by the ending. Lara is a sympathetic heroine and I enjoy the touch of paranormal, with mystical cat, Blue (a cat that only Lara can see), a frequent harbinger of clues and action.

If you love cozy mysteries and delightful characters that feel like friends, don’t miss CLAWS OF DEATH! If you are a cat lover, even better. It even has a delicious recipe for Blueberry Buckle at the end of the book. I can’t wait for the next book in the series!
Profile Image for Karen.
503 reviews65 followers
May 17, 2018
I finished Claws of death by Linda Reilly on Tuesday and it was simply magic. The best kind of cozy, one with all the feels, a great twist ending (or two or three) and the perfect dose of chemistry between the characters, not to mention all the cats. This second book in the Cat Lady Series has solidified my belief that this should be a long running series and that Linda Reilly is so on the right track with this book. It is comforting, cozy and very well written. As a cat lover this book made me so happy, as a cozy mystery lover it had all the right twists and turns, a great balance of suspense, and the words to make you feel you are not just reading the book but that you are right there, along for the ride and helping the main character along the way. Great job and a book you wont want to miss!
This one is out June 26th from Lyrical Underground.
Profile Image for Patrizia.
1,944 reviews42 followers
March 28, 2019
La cat lady è tornata con un'altra serie di deliziosi mici! E anche stavolta non avevo capito chi fosse il colpevole, quindi si merita il punteggio pieno.
Profile Image for RO G'ma.
1,061 reviews43 followers
May 25, 2018
Captivating Mystery and Great Characters
Claws of Death is the second book in Linda Reilly’s Cat Lady Mystery series. This is a light cozy with a well-plotted storyline and a great cast of well-developed characters, both human and feline. The story flows at a steady pace, with an intriguing mystery, and a hint of the paranormal. The plot moves swiftly and there are lots of twists and turns, a few red herrings, and plenty of suspects to keep the reader engaged. I didn’t guess the culprit’s identity until the reveal. I recommend this book to anyone who enjoys reading clean cozy mysteries.

Lara Caphart is adjusting nicely to her move back to Whisker Jog, New Hampshire and enjoys spending time with her old friend, Sherry Bowker, who owns and operates Bowker’s Coffee Shop with her mom, Daisy. Fran Clarkson, her aunt, is making great strides in her recovery from knee surgery, but knows she’ll have to have the same procedure on her other knee soon. The relationships between Lara and lawyer Gideon Halley and Fran and Police Chief Jerry Whitley are growing nicely. High Cliff Shelter for Cats, the unique animal shelter Lara and Fran operate in their home has been successfully placing cats in forever homes. Deanna Daltry, a well-known actress, recently moved back to Whisker Jog and adopted two adorable kittens, but Lara is concerned because the housekeeper, Nancy Sherman, doesn’t seem to like cats and believes they belong outside. Laura finds herself in the middle of another murder when she discovers the body of Donald Waitt in the private cemetery behind Deanna’s home. Deanna believes she’s the prime suspect because of her previous relationship and recent confrontation with the victim. Gideon is concerned for her safety and doesn’t want her to investigate and Jerry wants her to stay away from his investigation, reminding her multiple times about the saying about ships being sunk by loose lips, but it isn’t possible for her to just sit back and not help clear the names of innocent people. With the help of Blue, a beautiful, blue-eyed Ragdoll cat only Lara can see, she ferrets out clues.

I received an Advance Reader Copy of this book from NetGalley and voluntarily reviewed it.
Profile Image for Mary.
2,644 reviews
May 4, 2018
Such a good read that I finished it in 1 day
Profile Image for Taryn.
1,107 reviews33 followers
July 10, 2018
In this second book of the series legendary actress Deanna Daltry has decided to move back home and wants to adopt some kittens in the process. Lara meets Deanna when she stops by to inquire about adopting some kittens and helping others who want to do the same. Lara and Aunt Fran are happy to help but want to make sure that the actress will be providing a wonderful home to such precious cargo. While there Deanna invites Lara to a tea party being held in her honor the following day. At the party a couple of strange things occur, Deanna finds worms in her purse and Lara finds a strange message written in lipstick on Deanna's car. Deanna also seems to have words with a man who wasn't invited to the party. When said man is found in Deanna's cemetery, located on her estate, the police look to her as a suspect. She has heard that Lara recently help the police solve another murder and asks her for help. Can Lara help Deanna figure out who the killer is and will it end up being Deanna in the end. Follow along as Lara looks into the past for clues to help figure out just who had something against the dead man and why. Along the way Lara comes into contact with a housekeeper who doesn't like cats, a new hire that seems to good to be true, and a ton of history from the past to delve through. This is such a lovely series whose characters show the love a furry friend can bring to anyone's life. I can't wait to see what happens next and meet the new cats and kittens sure to grace the pages.


I received an ARC of this book, all thoughts and opinions are my own.
Profile Image for K.A. Davis.
Author 4 books491 followers
June 18, 2018
CLAWS OF DEATH, the second book in the Cat Lady Mystery series by Linda Reilly, is a sweet, sentimental story that is also an entertaining whodunit with a mystical twist! Protagonist Lara Caphart, with her Aunt Fran, have turned their home into High Cliff Shelter for Cats in the small New Hampshire town of Whisker Jog. Lara has a “guardian”, a Ragdoll cat that only she can see, who guides her and helps match up felines with fur-ever homes. Even if you’re not a cat person, you can’t help but love the sweet scenes connecting kitties with homes, especially when children are involved. I also enjoyed the ideas Lara comes up with to involve the community with the shelter, especially having kids practice reading to the cats waiting for families! I also appreciated that Ms. Reilly starts the book with a list of feline characters living at their shelter. It’s an adorable touch.

The mystery plot is fast paced with plenty of suspects to guess about who murdered a local man and if the new resident in town, actress Deanna Daltry, is really guilty. I love mysteries that weave in long-ago stories that need unraveled in order to solve the current day crime. Ms. Reilly’s writing flows and the clues are sprinkled evenly throughout the story to keep the reader guessing and turning pages. The subplots added to the appeal of the book yet didn’t detract from the main event. The suspenseful conclusion had me turning pages faster and faster and ended on a sweet, emotional note. I’m looking forward to seeing what’s next for Lara and her mystical Ragdoll, Blue!

I was provided an advance copy via Netgalley with the hopes I would review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Profile Image for JoAn.
2,459 reviews1 follower
May 20, 2018
Claws of Death by Linda Reilly was an excellent follow up in her Cat Lady Mysteries series. I am hopeful that series will continue for a long time as it really ticks all the boxes for a great cozy mystery.
Ms. Reilly's descriptive writing had me immersed once more in Whisker Jog with Lara and Aunt Fran. The shelter is up and running and there is a new resident in Whisker Jog, Deanna Daltry a legendary movie star, who has adopted two kittens from the shelter. Soon after the adoption, there's a murder on Deanna's property; and Lara is on the case.
The plot moved swiftly and there were plenty of suspects as well as twists before the reveal. The characters are developing well in this series and I felt like I got to know them so much better in this book. I really like Gideon and Lara together; and I adore Aunt Fran. She is great role model for women of "a certain age".

I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book from Lyrical Underground via NetGalley. All of the above opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Peggy.
1,012 reviews65 followers
May 12, 2018
The second book in the Cat Lady Mysteries was as delightful as the first book. Laura and her Aunt Fran are very likable, genuine characters that draw the reader into the story. The secondary cast of characters is diverse and helps to complete the story nicely. I'm not a cat person but I love how much Laura and her Aunt Fran care for the cats in their shelter. It is such a unique premise for an animal shelter and I ever felt a little sad as each cat found it's forever home.

The mystery was solid and woven through the story nicely. There are plenty of clues, twists and turns along with some red herrings thrown in for good measure. Once again, Laura finds herself in the middle of a murder and because it's in her nature to help she tries to do what she can. I thought the author did a nice job of distracting me with false trails and I did not guess the identity of the culprit until the reveal.

This is wonderful series to date that has a great setting, terrific characters and engaging mysteries. I will definitely be back for any future books in the series. I voluntarily read an advanced reader copy provided to me by the publisher through Netgalley.
2,130 reviews46 followers
May 1, 2018
When a legendary actress returns to her hometown of Whisker Jog, New Hampshire, murder comes with her. Someone wants revenge and the murder of a former friend makes Deanna the prime suspect. Luckily Lara Caphart, who runs High Cliff Shelter for Cats, is there to help. I love how she and her Aunt Fran care about her feline charges. It made me feel good. Lara and Gideon who she's been seeing make a good couple. When they're together, I could feel the chemistry. I liked that they are growing closer. The characters are good people who help and care for each other. I especially enjoyed the paranormal element supplied by Blue, the mystical Ragdoll cat. Linda Reilly gave me characters that I liked, intelligent dialogue and a superior mystery that kept me guessing. I plan to read more stories by this author. I like her style.
I received a copy of this book which I voluntarily read and reviewed. My comments are my honest opinion.
Profile Image for Brenda.
547 reviews30 followers
July 14, 2018
Claws of Death is the second installment in the Cat Lady Mysteries series set in the small town of Whisker Jog, New Hampshire and featuring cat shelter owners Lara Caphart and her Aunt Fran. The High Cliff Shelter for Cats is up and running and they are delighted when actress Deanna Daltry returns to her home town and adopts the two adorable kittens, Doodle and Noodle.

Someone isn't happy that Deanna is back in town and it's not long before the actress finds herself the victim of a few nasty pranks including worms in her handbag and lipstick messages scrawled on her windshield. Panicked that she is being stalked, Deanna invites Lara over to the mansion to see the kitties in their new environment and a quick glance out the window to admire the view reveals a dead body in the garden.

Lara wants to be sure that the kitties are in a safe house, so she sets out to track down a killer and find Deanna's tormentor. With the help of her beautiful ragdoll, Blue (who nobody else can see) Lara not only solves a crime but places several cats in the perfect new homes.

A likable cast of characters and cats, a touch of romance and a well plotted mystery make this addition to the series a hit. The recipe for Blueberry Buckle mouthwatering delicious.

I received an advanced copy of Claws of Death from NetGalley via Lyrical Underground, a division of Kensington Publishing. While not required to write a review I am more than happy to offer my honest opinion.

Profile Image for Kirsti.
2,497 reviews104 followers
May 14, 2018
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for the chance to read this book!

Linda Reilly can do no wrong in my book. She has two fantastic series that only get better with each book, plus she writes cozy mystery with cats. I was always going to be sold on her, but her books truly are awesome! I can only think of two other cozy authors I look forward to as much as Linda Reilly books (Miranda James and Laura Cass). Basically if you love cats and mystery, then this book is for you!

The writing is fast paced and you're never really sure of everyone's motives. It's hard to guess the killer and why, although that's all tied up in a neat package by the end. You also get introduced to a few new faces that I can see making the next books even more fun!

A great read for cozy mystery lovers, five stars.
Profile Image for Patty.
1,555 reviews1 follower
June 28, 2018
Claws of Death by Linda Reilly is the 2nd book in the Cat Lady Mystery series, and another great addition. Lara Caphart lives with her Aunt Fran in Whisker Jog, New Hampshire where they run High Cliff Shelter for Cats.  When legendary actress Deanna Daltry returns to her home town of Whisker Jog, she adopts two kittens. When a body is found on Deanna's property, Lara jumps in to help solve the murder.

Claws of Death is a fun book, and the mystery keeps you guessing until the end. I am looking forward to reading the next book in the series. If you love cats and cozy mysteries, this book is for you.

I received this book from Netgalley in exchange for a fair and honest review.
Profile Image for Laurie Garrison .
727 reviews173 followers
June 28, 2018
Claws of Death provides the same entertainment as the first installment Escaped Claws did.
Linda Reilly does it again by providing cozy mysteries readers with a good solid, fun and entertaining mystery that will keep you guessing the whole time. I have to admit I am sold on the authors writing style, she truly writes mysteries that are hard to find fault in.
I enjoyed the new characters especially the new rescue helper Kayla, I believe she will become a great helper to Lara.
You’ll find one recipe Lara’s Blueberry Buckle in the back of the book.
If you’re looking for a book with mystery, murder, love, new friends and cats, this one is for you.
Profile Image for Carla.
7,619 reviews179 followers
August 3, 2018
Claws of Death is the second in this series and I felt that it was not as strong as the first one. The book is a light read, well suited to animal (cats) lovers and those who like a story that involves a lot of character building and relationships. Throughout the book there is information regarding cats, the care and feeding of them as well as a strong recommendation for adopting from a local shelter. The protagonist, Lara lives with her Aunt Fran in a house they have turned into a shelter for abused and/or abandoned cats in Whisker Jog, New Hampshire. The shelter then puts the cats up for adoption. In addition, there is a “spirit cat”, Blue, that only the Lara can see, who is helpful in magically focusing the protagonist’s attention on important clues.

The mystery in the book is almost secondary to the relationships both in Lara's personal life and those that are part of the adoption process. When actress Deanna Daltry returns home, her high school boyfriend shows up at a party in her honour. When she shoos him off, he turns up dead. Lara decides to help Deanna in order for her not to feel like a prisoner in her own home. The mystery of who killed the man is hard to solve. There were many people who did not like Deanna when she was younger and might have wanted to frame her for the murder. There is important information that is only provided at the end of the book, as the mystery is solved. This not only makes the mystery almost unsolvable for the reader, but the culprit was hard to believe. The book itself is well written, with good attention to detail. It moves at a smooth pace from beginning to end and is easily read in the space of a few hours. I am not sure if I will continue with this series, but if you love cats, you will probably enjoy this one.
Profile Image for Debra Jo Reads.
1,010 reviews55 followers
September 10, 2019
I received an ARC of this novel from NetGalley in return for an honest review.

I wasn't a huge fan of book one, Escape Claws. I enjoyed it enough for what it was, a kind of come back home feel good story. It missed the mark a little for me on a few notes but I loved the relationship between Lara and Aunt Fran. That only, pushed me on to book two. I am so glad that I did. I thoroughly enjoyed this one!!

In Claws of Death, there is fame, mystery, budding romance, and the author touches on a couple dark topics. Although very much a cozy, the "mystery" is quite serious and kicks ya right in the feels. I didn't even see the "who dunnit" coming. And if you are a cat person, which I know most cozy readers are, you develop a very special bond with one particular kitty in this book.

I do not see a listing on Goodreads for a book 3. There was no cliffhanger at the end; however, I want more now!! I am hopeful that Linda Reilly continues this series.
Profile Image for Cozy Reader Lady.
1,147 reviews121 followers
August 26, 2024
"Claws of Death (Cat Lady Mysteries #2)" by Linda Reilly is another cute cat themed cozy mystery. The author seems to be finding their stride with this series.
Lara ends up being called in to help with a pair of cats. While there she ends up trying to help Deanna, a celebrity who recently moved to town, to clear her name of the death of one of her gardeners. However, still too easy to figure out if you're a cozy mystery buff.

The only thing that really annoyed me was how often the characters say the name of the town they live in. Like really, I don't go around saying "downtown, in MyTown" when I'm talking to someone else that I know lives in town too. It's assumed you're referring to the town you live in unless you state it with including the town name. This happens enough to get annoying.
Profile Image for Karen.
693 reviews9 followers
November 12, 2018
Long buried secrets mark the return of one of my favourite new series.
This is the second book in the series, and I hope there are many more!
This book has delightful characters with a whodunit that keeps you guessing.
The cat shelter is a great premise that does not take away from the mystery, and includes a touch of the paranormal.
This is a must read cozy series and I highly recommend it!
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
528 reviews1 follower
September 24, 2018
The 2nd in the Cat Lady Mysteries and the things are getting more mysterious for Lara and the blue-eyed Ragdoll cat who keeps making appearances. The Ragdoll shows up again when Laura is helping her aunt Fran by investigating a murder on the property of an aging former actress who has recently move to Whiskey Jog. New Hampshire from California.

I generally read cozy mysteries with either dogs or cats because they always add some real interest to the story and usually find a way to point out the killer.

I won this book in a Goodreads giveaway in exchange for an honest review. I loved the book and even
read the first book Escape Claws prior to reading this one. I am looking forward to the next book Claws for Celebration which comes out at the beginning of December.
Profile Image for Jeanie.
1,311 reviews1 follower
June 26, 2018
What a fun, fascinating cozy mystery, a solid 2nd offering in the Cat Lady Mystery series! This author brings to life a delightful cat shelter owned and operated by Fran and her niece, Lara, and a collection of gorgeous cats ready for adoption. It is a complex mystery that I couldn’t solve. The first mystery in the series wow-d me, and this is another wow!
Welcome back to High Cliff Shelter for Cats in beautiful Whisker Jog, New Hampshire! Fran is a school teacher who has taken a year off for knee replacement surgery, and her niece, Lara, a watercolor artist, returned to help and decided to stay. So many people have dropped off cats to Fran to take care of that, when Lara returned, they began the High Cliff Shelter for Cats. They chose some to keep, and some to find fur-ever homes for, and review applications from anyone wanting to adopt.
That includes Deanna Daltry, a famous actress, returning to Whisker Jog and wanting to adopt a cat. She decides on a pair of kittens, Noodle and Doodle, pending the application process. She invites Fran and Lara to a reception being held for her by the Ladies’ Association. During the reception, a man came in to see her who she asked to leave. A threat is found on Deanna’s car that brings an abrupt end to the reception. When Lara goes to Deanna’s home with the kittens, she looks out the window to see someone lying down in the graveyard of the long-ago owners of the mansion. They find the man from the reception, Don Waitt, murdered. Being on her property, Deanna is the primary suspect.
I really like Lara and Fran, they are the perfect ladies to care for a cat shelter. Theirs is the kind of home I’d love to have! They are well-defined through actions and dialog, as are other characters throughout. Lara has a secret helper at the shelter. Blue, a gorgeous, fluffy Ragdoll, can only be seen or heard by Lara. Blue looks exactly like a cat her aunt had owned many years ago when Lara was a regular visitor.
The mystery is written very well, introducing great ideas such as children volunteering to read to cats at shelters – a win-win for both the children and the cats. Friendship is a major theme, including Lara and best friend Sherry, and a lonely Deanna. The plot twists brought surprises at every turn, a new suspect who might have wanted to hurt a kind older man…or frame Deanna for it. I enjoyed learning a little about the wildflower and herb in the story, and various things about cats imparted as part of the story of pets and pet adoption.
I was not prepared for who the real bad guy was; the killer was a complete surprise. I was very pleased with the novel overall. It flowed well, grabbed my attention at the beginning, and held it throughout. There were no loose ends, and I am completely looking forward to the next one. I love cat-themed cozy mysteries, and this series is a delight. I highly recommend Claws of Death to those who enjoy cozy mysteries with likable characters, a mystery that stumps the reader, and of course, cats.
From a grateful heart: I received an e-Arc of this from the publisher and NetGalley, and this is my honest review.
Profile Image for Mr Francy Reads.
765 reviews24 followers
June 17, 2025
SAD THAT ONLY THE FIRST 2 ARE OUT ON AUDIO. WAS SUCH A JOY READING THEM!

SERIES PREMISE: In this series we follow Lara Caphart who, alongside her Aunt Fran run a Kitten and Cat Shelter.
In this book: A famous celebrity Deanna Daltry moves to town and is looking to adopt some kittens. During the processing stage of her background check she invites Lara and Aunt Fran to an event that the ladies are hosting to welcome her. During the event a man rudely interrupts everything having a frank whispered discussion with her. Not too much later Lara finds Deanna's car graffitied and then the man that disrupted the party, dead. What the heck is going on around here?

THOUGHTS: Oh my goodness I need to thank Linda Reilly first and foremost. I don't think I've ever read a book from her that I didn't like and this one was no exception. Not only was the mystery itneresting, but the cozy side, the cat shelter, couldn't have been anymore cozy if Linda Reilly tried! I love spending time with all the cats as well as Lara and couldn't wait to find out who the killer was. The reveal was very well done. Just an amazing book!

Sadly this is where I get off from the A Cat Lady Mystery Train as there are no more audiobooks for this series which is a real shame. So a massive thank you again to Linda Reilly and also to the audio narrator Callie Beaulieu, whom I've also always loved as a narrator!

5 Stars!
Highly recommend!
xoxo.
Profile Image for ChrisGA.
1,264 reviews
May 9, 2018
This second in the series was an enjoyable read. Lara, a young artist, and her aunt run a cat shelter out of their home and are passionate about finding the perfect forever homes for each of their charges. The characters are likeable and easily relate-able, including Lara’s beau and her sassy best friend. Along the way, Lara investigates a murder, assisted as she was in the first book, by her magical cat/guardian angel. This cozy mystery is a very pleasant way to spend a day.
I received this book in a Goodreads giveaway.
Profile Image for Marla Bradeen.
Author 12 books74 followers
May 25, 2018
Reilly has another winner in CLAWS OF DEATH, the second installment of the delightful Cat Lady series. Interesting characters, an intriguing mystery, and a slew of wonderful cats make this book a great pick for any cozy mystery fan. Animal lovers especially will appreciate how the story revolves around a small rescue organization, and one cat's situation in particular provides a unique and interesting twist that is sure to appeal to those who like a little magic in their books.

Disclosure: I won a free copy of this book in a giveaway.
11.4k reviews192 followers
June 13, 2018
Excellent second entry into the series but don't worry if you haven't read the first- Reilly will catch you right up on the goings on in Whisker Jog. Lara moved home and now she's running a cat shelter with her Aunt Fran (love Aunt Fran!). They adopt out a pair of kittens to a faded movie star Deanna who almost immediately finds a dead body on her property. Of course Lara is going to investigate! This one has all the elements of a good cozy (and a ghost cat!)- good guys, bad guys, a little romance, and some neat characters. Not too twisty but enough to keep you engaged. Thanks to Netgalley for the ARC. Two paws up!
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