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Paws & Claws Mystery #7
Big Little Spies
A pet detective on the hunt for a prominent pooch is found dead, and inn owner Holly Miller has to sort through her guest list for suspects in this all new Paws & Claws mystery in the New York Times bestselling series.
The ladies of the Wagtail Animal Guardians, WAG for short, are in town for a pet adoption charity ball, and Holly is making sure to roll out the red carpet for her special guests. She and her furry best friend Trixie are busy keeping the WAG ladies happy and preparing for the ball when they learn that a retired judge has lost his prized pup.
The venerable citizen has hired a pet detective who has some personal ties to Holly's new guests. His presence ruffles some feathers, and when the PI is found DOA not long before the ball, Holly wonders if one of the WAG ladies had a motive for murder. To make matters worse, some pet-loving guests of the ball nearly suffer the same deadly fate. Holly and Trixie will have to sniff out the clues and leash a callous killer before they strike again....
The ladies of the Wagtail Animal Guardians, WAG for short, are in town for a pet adoption charity ball, and Holly is making sure to roll out the red carpet for her special guests. She and her furry best friend Trixie are busy keeping the WAG ladies happy and preparing for the ball when they learn that a retired judge has lost his prized pup.
The venerable citizen has hired a pet detective who has some personal ties to Holly's new guests. His presence ruffles some feathers, and when the PI is found DOA not long before the ball, Holly wonders if one of the WAG ladies had a motive for murder. To make matters worse, some pet-loving guests of the ball nearly suffer the same deadly fate. Holly and Trixie will have to sniff out the clues and leash a callous killer before they strike again....
304 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published April 13, 2021
109 people are currently reading
841 people want to read
About the author
Krista Davis
36 books3,256 followersKrista Davis lives in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia where she writes mysteries. She lived in Northern Virginia for many years and resided for a time in Old Town Alexandria where her Domestic Diva Mysteries take place.
Krista also writes the Paws and Claws Mysteries, which debuted with MURDER, SHE BARKED. Her Pen & Ink Mysteries featured covers that can be colored! Read the book and have fun coloring the cover.
WEBSITE: https://www.kristadavis.com
NEWSLETTER: https://bit.ly/3Wi0jcR
FACEBOOK: http://www.facebook.com/KristaDavisAu...
INSTAGRAM: www.instagram.com/kristadavisauthor
Krista also writes the Paws and Claws Mysteries, which debuted with MURDER, SHE BARKED. Her Pen & Ink Mysteries featured covers that can be colored! Read the book and have fun coloring the cover.
WEBSITE: https://www.kristadavis.com
NEWSLETTER: https://bit.ly/3Wi0jcR
FACEBOOK: http://www.facebook.com/KristaDavisAu...
INSTAGRAM: www.instagram.com/kristadavisauthor
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 199 reviews
November 23, 2021
This is a cozy mystery, and this is the 7th book in the Paws and Claws Mystery series. I have read and review the several other books in this series. I feel with this series you really need to have read the books before this book, and the reason I say that is part of the greatest of this series is the town of Wagtail. This book really does not really go into the town of wagtail, but I think the fact I read the other books made this book so much better. I really loved being back in Wagtail with all these characters again. The mystery part in this book was so good, and I really enjoyed it. I loved all the dogs and cats in this book. This is a fun and cute cozy mystery series. I was kindly provided an e-copy of this book by the publisher (Berkley Books) or author (Krista Davis) via NetGalley, so I can give honest review about how I feel about this book. I want to send a big Thank you to them for that.
January 5, 2021
One of my favorite cozy mystery settings is the pet wonderland in Wagtail, VA. Folks are gathering for the ‘There’s No Place Like Home’ fancy ball held by the WAG Ladies (rescue volunteers); a group of five very different women who’ve brought their pets along during their stay at the Sugar Maple Inn.
Holly Miller helps her grandmother, Oma, manage the beautiful Inn. They adore pets and have several of their own. Trixie, Holly’s rescue dog, has a keen nose for sniffing out dead people. Lo and behold, she finds a corpse washed up on the nearby beach. As the story moves at a brisk pace, I found there were so many suspects introduced that it was somewhat frustrating trying to keep track of who was who (I couldn’t) and which pet was theirs. A gruff, retired Judge has a prominent role in the murder mystery and his situation provides levity in the seriousness of the mystery! I had a niggling feeling I knew who the killer was and it turned out I was correct. All in all, this is a great story. I highly recommend this book to animal lovers! Enjoy trying the delicious recipes the author shares after the story.
I honestly reviewed a digital arc provided by NetGalley and Berkley Publishing. All opinions are my own. Thank you.
Holly Miller helps her grandmother, Oma, manage the beautiful Inn. They adore pets and have several of their own. Trixie, Holly’s rescue dog, has a keen nose for sniffing out dead people. Lo and behold, she finds a corpse washed up on the nearby beach. As the story moves at a brisk pace, I found there were so many suspects introduced that it was somewhat frustrating trying to keep track of who was who (I couldn’t) and which pet was theirs. A gruff, retired Judge has a prominent role in the murder mystery and his situation provides levity in the seriousness of the mystery! I had a niggling feeling I knew who the killer was and it turned out I was correct. All in all, this is a great story. I highly recommend this book to animal lovers! Enjoy trying the delicious recipes the author shares after the story.
I honestly reviewed a digital arc provided by NetGalley and Berkley Publishing. All opinions are my own. Thank you.
October 30, 2023
The women of Wagtail Animal Guardians known as WAGs are holding a charity ball There’s no Place like Home being hosted at The Sugar Maple Inn. The aim of this ball is to raise money for pet adoptions. And the owners furry friends all get dressed up and take part in the ball as well. Holly, who helps her grandmother, Oma, run the inn is determined to make the event a spectacular success. She and her canine friend Trixie are busy keeping the WAG ladies and their furry friends happy. As they are preparing for the ball they hear that retired Judge Grant Barlow’s dog Fritz has gone missing. Could someone have taken him? Other unsettling incidents have happened around the judge recently which makes Holly suspicious.
The judge hires a pet detective. This man, Seth, has personal ties to some of the guests at the ball who are staying at the inn. When Seth is killed, then everyone at the inn becomes aspect, especially when a pet loving person nearly suffers the same fate. Holly and Trixie, as well as the police, need to find the killer before he or she strikes again. Along the way some surprising secrets and relationships come to light.
This cute cosy mystery is book 7 in the series. It didn’t matter that I hadn’t read the earlier books. However, even though I am an animal lover, I found after a while the array of canine and feline companions and the way they were doted on became a bit too much. So maybe I won’t be inclined to read any more in this series. I liked it but didn’t love it, But I am sure others will probably love this book more.
The judge hires a pet detective. This man, Seth, has personal ties to some of the guests at the ball who are staying at the inn. When Seth is killed, then everyone at the inn becomes aspect, especially when a pet loving person nearly suffers the same fate. Holly and Trixie, as well as the police, need to find the killer before he or she strikes again. Along the way some surprising secrets and relationships come to light.
This cute cosy mystery is book 7 in the series. It didn’t matter that I hadn’t read the earlier books. However, even though I am an animal lover, I found after a while the array of canine and feline companions and the way they were doted on became a bit too much. So maybe I won’t be inclined to read any more in this series. I liked it but didn’t love it, But I am sure others will probably love this book more.
April 3, 2021
Dollycas’s Thoughts
We return to Wagtail, Virginia just in time for the ‘There’s No Place Like Home’ Pet Adoption Ball being thrown by the Wagtail Animal Guardians or WAG for short. The ladies and their pets have all checked in at the Sugar Maple Inn and Holly, Oma Liesel, Zelda, Mr. Huckle, Gingersnap, Twinkletoes, and Trixie are making them all feel welcome. But they are concerned about another precious pup. The Geman Shepherd of a local retired recently widowed judge is missing. His housekeeper has called in a pet detective but before he can return the dog to the judge, Trixie, Holly’s rescue dog who has a habit of finding dead bodies, finds a dead pet detective. It seems the detective has connections to several WAG members. There are also several strange things happening that put other lives in peril. It’s time for Holly and Trixie to find out what the heck is going on including who killed the pet detective.
I absolutely love the pet-friendly town of Wagtail. With a new puppy in the house, who we love to take everywhere with us, Wagtail would be a perfect vacation spot. Even a dead body or two is an issue because I love a good mystery and would do anything I could to help Holly crate a killer.
The core group of characters, human, canine, and feline, are so cleverly crafted. They all have huge hearts and love catering to their guest’s needs and having Wagtail become a great tourist destination. They are all engaging and genuine. I get such a kick of Holly jumping on a golf cart and being quickly followed by Trixie and sometimes Twinkletoes. The pets are not just window dressing they are vital to the story.
We are introduced to several new characters and their pets. I love that Ms. Davis knows this may be confusing at first so she graciously includes a complete list of characters before the story begins. The WAG ladies are a diverse group with their own issues and secrets. They spend a lot of time together and know each other’s quirks and how to work best together but even they don’t know all of each other’s secrets. The judge and his housekeeper also play prominent roles. They also have issues and secrets.
The story unfolds at a very fast pace with subplots tightly tangled with the main mystery/s. There is truly a plethora of suspects with a variety of motives. Twists and turns muddied my thinking several times and just when I thought I had the killer leashed another twist sent me off in another direction and still I was barking up the wrong tree. I was gobsmacked when everything was revealed. The author plotted out a fantastic mystery.
In addition to the marvelous characters and the mysteries they were wrapped in the Sugar Maple Inn serves up a menu of delicious food for its guests. The pet-friendly versions are really interesting and thought-provoking. We don’t prepare special meals for our pooch but there are some great easy-to-make options included in this book. I just may have to try some of them out. A pet cookbook with the recipes from this series would be fun.
Big Little Spies is a delightful addition to this series. The title truly fits. I do get a little melancholy when I reach the final page of books in this series because I really enjoy spending time with these characters. I can’t wait to return to Wagtail. This visit ended much too soon.
We return to Wagtail, Virginia just in time for the ‘There’s No Place Like Home’ Pet Adoption Ball being thrown by the Wagtail Animal Guardians or WAG for short. The ladies and their pets have all checked in at the Sugar Maple Inn and Holly, Oma Liesel, Zelda, Mr. Huckle, Gingersnap, Twinkletoes, and Trixie are making them all feel welcome. But they are concerned about another precious pup. The Geman Shepherd of a local retired recently widowed judge is missing. His housekeeper has called in a pet detective but before he can return the dog to the judge, Trixie, Holly’s rescue dog who has a habit of finding dead bodies, finds a dead pet detective. It seems the detective has connections to several WAG members. There are also several strange things happening that put other lives in peril. It’s time for Holly and Trixie to find out what the heck is going on including who killed the pet detective.
I absolutely love the pet-friendly town of Wagtail. With a new puppy in the house, who we love to take everywhere with us, Wagtail would be a perfect vacation spot. Even a dead body or two is an issue because I love a good mystery and would do anything I could to help Holly crate a killer.
The core group of characters, human, canine, and feline, are so cleverly crafted. They all have huge hearts and love catering to their guest’s needs and having Wagtail become a great tourist destination. They are all engaging and genuine. I get such a kick of Holly jumping on a golf cart and being quickly followed by Trixie and sometimes Twinkletoes. The pets are not just window dressing they are vital to the story.
We are introduced to several new characters and their pets. I love that Ms. Davis knows this may be confusing at first so she graciously includes a complete list of characters before the story begins. The WAG ladies are a diverse group with their own issues and secrets. They spend a lot of time together and know each other’s quirks and how to work best together but even they don’t know all of each other’s secrets. The judge and his housekeeper also play prominent roles. They also have issues and secrets.
The story unfolds at a very fast pace with subplots tightly tangled with the main mystery/s. There is truly a plethora of suspects with a variety of motives. Twists and turns muddied my thinking several times and just when I thought I had the killer leashed another twist sent me off in another direction and still I was barking up the wrong tree. I was gobsmacked when everything was revealed. The author plotted out a fantastic mystery.
In addition to the marvelous characters and the mysteries they were wrapped in the Sugar Maple Inn serves up a menu of delicious food for its guests. The pet-friendly versions are really interesting and thought-provoking. We don’t prepare special meals for our pooch but there are some great easy-to-make options included in this book. I just may have to try some of them out. A pet cookbook with the recipes from this series would be fun.
Big Little Spies is a delightful addition to this series. The title truly fits. I do get a little melancholy when I reach the final page of books in this series because I really enjoy spending time with these characters. I can’t wait to return to Wagtail. This visit ended much too soon.
June 3, 2021
Being the mother of a canine fur baby, another fun visit to Wagtail, courtesy of author Krista Davis, was just what I needed.
How an author can continue to make fresh, new books in a series already on its seventh title, is beyond me. Yet, author Krista Davis does just that. She has once again added even more depth to this, her seventh Paws and Claws Mysteries. Brava!
While there are times I can become exhausted chasing around with a protagonist who has her teeth into something and just won’t let it go, BIG LITTLE SPIES was not one of those cases. I was happy, eager even, to follow along with Holly in an attempt to catch a killer. When every lead that came up turned into a tangled leash, I found myself totally clueless. I wasn’t even close to having it figured out.
A brilliant mystery, fabulous charters old and new, animals, murder, and so very much more. The perfect addition to the Paws and Claws Mysteries, BIG LITTLE SPIES was an all-around satisfying treat. A real read-in-one-sitting tale, this story has it all. You just can’t go wrong with this book!
Oh, and there are treats by way of recipes included in the book!
I feel as though this review is not up to my usual standards. My concentration was scattered while writing this one. Please don’t let that stop you from picking up a copy of BIG LITTLE SPIES for yourself. You’re going to love it!
How an author can continue to make fresh, new books in a series already on its seventh title, is beyond me. Yet, author Krista Davis does just that. She has once again added even more depth to this, her seventh Paws and Claws Mysteries. Brava!
While there are times I can become exhausted chasing around with a protagonist who has her teeth into something and just won’t let it go, BIG LITTLE SPIES was not one of those cases. I was happy, eager even, to follow along with Holly in an attempt to catch a killer. When every lead that came up turned into a tangled leash, I found myself totally clueless. I wasn’t even close to having it figured out.
A brilliant mystery, fabulous charters old and new, animals, murder, and so very much more. The perfect addition to the Paws and Claws Mysteries, BIG LITTLE SPIES was an all-around satisfying treat. A real read-in-one-sitting tale, this story has it all. You just can’t go wrong with this book!
Oh, and there are treats by way of recipes included in the book!
I feel as though this review is not up to my usual standards. My concentration was scattered while writing this one. Please don’t let that stop you from picking up a copy of BIG LITTLE SPIES for yourself. You’re going to love it!
February 5, 2021
BIG LITTLE SPIES, the seventh book in the Paws & Claws Mysteries by Krista Davis, is another fun romp through the charming town of Wagtail! The protagonist, Holly Miller, co-owns pet-friendly Sugar Maple Inn with her grandmother, Oma. I love the close relationship they have. Their furry sidekicks, Trixie, Twinkletoes, and Gingersnap, add appeal with their delightful antics. Trixie especially, with her penchant for finding dead bodies and dragging Holly into investigations. One of the many strengths of this series are the characters, both human and pet alike, whether they be the core characters or visitors enjoying all that Wagtail has to offer. As the story progresses, there are a lot of people to remember. However, there is a handy character list at the beginning of the book for referencing. In addition to the pet-centric town setting, the author always manages to set up a memorable event to capture the reader’s attention. In this newest release, visitors are flocking to the town to participate in the ‘There’s No Place Like Home’ pet adoption charity ball. With vivid descriptions, I felt like I was right there, enjoying all the tastes, smells, and delights that the town has to offer.
Ms. Davis is quick to set up the scenario for a crime to happen, and keeps a strong pace as the story unfolds. When Trixie finds the body of a visiting pet detective, Holly becomes involved. Could it be one of her guests who did the dastardly deed? As the clues are revealed, Holly finds lots of viable suspects including connections to residents in Wagtail. With a dash or two of romance, a glamorous pet and human ball, and secrets galore, this solid cozy mystery kept me turning pages until I’d read the very last word.
Running the Inn with her grandmother, Holly’s chef serves up plenty of mouthwatering food and treats for human and pet guests alike. There are several recipes at the back of the book and I was happy to see that there are several delectable recipes for people and a few safe options for dogs.
I was provided with an advance copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Ms. Davis is quick to set up the scenario for a crime to happen, and keeps a strong pace as the story unfolds. When Trixie finds the body of a visiting pet detective, Holly becomes involved. Could it be one of her guests who did the dastardly deed? As the clues are revealed, Holly finds lots of viable suspects including connections to residents in Wagtail. With a dash or two of romance, a glamorous pet and human ball, and secrets galore, this solid cozy mystery kept me turning pages until I’d read the very last word.
Running the Inn with her grandmother, Holly’s chef serves up plenty of mouthwatering food and treats for human and pet guests alike. There are several recipes at the back of the book and I was happy to see that there are several delectable recipes for people and a few safe options for dogs.
I was provided with an advance copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
April 22, 2021
Welcome to Wagtail, VA, where a town whose reputation is based on being pet friendly. A gala in support of animal rescue in a few days has the leadership of the organization, known as the WAG women, in town to finish the last minute details and staying at Holly Miller's B&B. Murder strikes a pet detective who came to town in search of a local judge's dog, Fritz. Of course the connections and motives abound. The mystery itself is well allotted with sufficient red herrings to keep you guessing. The town and the characters are charming. While I certainly enjoyed them, I really would have deepen my pleasure if I had read some or all of the previous six books in the series. And I plan to go back and learn more about the town and it's inhabitants. Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
May 18, 2021
Pet friendly anything is my kind of things! I loved visiting the town of Wagtail with all my furry friends (and the humans aren't bad either). I was able to get this one on audio and listened to it in one day. The story sucks you in and the mystery was pretty good. I wasn't sure who was going to end up being the killer of the pet detective. I honestly thought it would be more than one of the ladies. I wasn't disappointed in the ending and how it all went down. Now to wait for the next one!!
April 8, 2021
I love visiting Wagtail and this book really made my visit special.
The mystery was well played out and I was left guessing until the end.
All the different animals made this story even more likable, and I can’t wait to visit with my friends again soon.
#BigLittleSpies #NetGalley
The mystery was well played out and I was left guessing until the end.
All the different animals made this story even more likable, and I can’t wait to visit with my friends again soon.
#BigLittleSpies #NetGalley
April 3, 2021
Big Little Spies by Krista Davis is the 7th A Paws & Claws Mystery. I love visiting Wagtail in each delightful tale. While Big Little Spies could be read on its own, I recommend reading this charming series in order. Holly, Liesel, Rose, Holmes, and the other residents of Wagtail are wonderful characters. They are developed characters who are friendly and relatable. I love all the cats and dogs. They run around playing, snooping, getting into mischief as well as helping find a clue now and then. Wagtail is a special town. I would love to live in this pet-friendly place. The mystery is well done. It is clever and fun to follow (and solve). There is plenty of action to keep things lively. I enjoy following Holly and Trixie as they ask questions and dig up clues. There are some great twists and turns in this whodunit. There is a good wrap up at the end. I wish all cozy mysteries were as well done as this one. There are some recipes at the end of the book for humans and canines. I am going to try the canine recipes (I think my fur babies will love them). I also learned to check the ingredients on my peanut butter before giving it to my dog. This is one of those books that you cannot wait to see how it ends, but you also do not want it do end. I was sad to leave Wagtail, and I cannot wait for my next visit. Big Little Spies is a captivating whodunit with a dead detective, a beastly bash, a misplaced pooch, a startling romance, a clever canine, and a crazed killer.
April 13, 2021
I always love an adventure to Wagtail. The WAG ladies and their pets are staying at the Sugar Maple Inn. A German Shepherd owned by Judge Barlow has gone missing. Holly Finds the dog in the backyard of her grandmother's friend, Rose's, house along with the dead body of the person hired to find him.
Wagtail is a place I would love to live in with its pet friendly atmosphere. I love the characters. Holly and her Oma make a great team. Her pup and cat Trixie and Twinkletoes always find a way to steal the scene. I liked the side stories of Rose and the Judge, as well as the backstory of the Judges daughter and the circumstances surrounding her death. The main mystery was fantastic. I truly could not figure out who the killer was and was shocked at the outcome. You know the author has done a good job when you feel sorry for the killer and understand the reasoning behind their actions. I can't wait ti=o visit Wagtail again soon.
Wagtail is a place I would love to live in with its pet friendly atmosphere. I love the characters. Holly and her Oma make a great team. Her pup and cat Trixie and Twinkletoes always find a way to steal the scene. I liked the side stories of Rose and the Judge, as well as the backstory of the Judges daughter and the circumstances surrounding her death. The main mystery was fantastic. I truly could not figure out who the killer was and was shocked at the outcome. You know the author has done a good job when you feel sorry for the killer and understand the reasoning behind their actions. I can't wait ti=o visit Wagtail again soon.
May 3, 2021
Another great visit to Wagtail to visit old friends, okay they are book characters, but they feel like old friends to me! Something fishy is going on with missing pets and the older ladies in town seem to have lost their minds over an old codger! Could one of the wealthy elite ladies in town for a gala really be a secret killer? Things are topsy turvy and it is up to the Wagtail gang to figure it out before more people end up dead! Great plot, excellent setting and fantastic characters make this a must read series for me!
April 6, 2021
Big Little Spies is the seventh book in the Paws And Claws Mystery series by Krista Davis.
Holly Miller and her Oma are busy getting their Sugar Maple Inn ready to welcome Wagtail Animal Guardians(WAG) members, who are having their There’s No Place Like Home Pet Adoption Ball.
Holly and Trixie, her rescue dog, are enjoying meeting with their guests and their pets when she gets a phone call from her boyfriend’s grandmother, Rose, asking her to come to Judge Barlow’s home. Holly thinks that there has been some word on Barlow’s missing German Shepherd, Fritz. Holly knew that Barlow’s housekeeper, Miss Dovie, had hired a pet detective, Seth Bertenshaw, to look for Fritz. But instead, Rose and Barlow feel that listening devices have been placed in the judge’s home.
A day or two later, while at a shed fire at Miss Dovie’s, Holly notices that Trixie is missing. Soon she hears her bark and fears what that bark might mean. She soon finds not only Trixie but also Fritz. Trixie and Fritz are standing guard over the body of the pet detective. Before long, a guest dies when someone switches her medicines, and another lady is sent to the hospital in serious condition possibly caused by poisoning. It’s time for Holly and Trixie to get down to business and find out what is going on in Wagtail before there are any more deaths.
It’s always great to visit with Trixie, the pets, and the wonderful residents. I would love to live in a community like Wagtail, where the dogs and cats can go wherever their humans go. The story is well-written and plotted. The characters are well-developed and believable,
Delicious recipes, both for humans and pets, are included in the book.
I will be looking for the next book in this exciting series.
Holly Miller and her Oma are busy getting their Sugar Maple Inn ready to welcome Wagtail Animal Guardians(WAG) members, who are having their There’s No Place Like Home Pet Adoption Ball.
Holly and Trixie, her rescue dog, are enjoying meeting with their guests and their pets when she gets a phone call from her boyfriend’s grandmother, Rose, asking her to come to Judge Barlow’s home. Holly thinks that there has been some word on Barlow’s missing German Shepherd, Fritz. Holly knew that Barlow’s housekeeper, Miss Dovie, had hired a pet detective, Seth Bertenshaw, to look for Fritz. But instead, Rose and Barlow feel that listening devices have been placed in the judge’s home.
A day or two later, while at a shed fire at Miss Dovie’s, Holly notices that Trixie is missing. Soon she hears her bark and fears what that bark might mean. She soon finds not only Trixie but also Fritz. Trixie and Fritz are standing guard over the body of the pet detective. Before long, a guest dies when someone switches her medicines, and another lady is sent to the hospital in serious condition possibly caused by poisoning. It’s time for Holly and Trixie to get down to business and find out what is going on in Wagtail before there are any more deaths.
It’s always great to visit with Trixie, the pets, and the wonderful residents. I would love to live in a community like Wagtail, where the dogs and cats can go wherever their humans go. The story is well-written and plotted. The characters are well-developed and believable,
Delicious recipes, both for humans and pets, are included in the book.
I will be looking for the next book in this exciting series.
March 19, 2021
GREAT. GOOGLY. MOOGLY.
First, I need to say that I love this series. After reading several unsatisfactory books, I was looking forward to one that I knew I would enjoy, and this did NOT disappoint. I started reading it and it felt immediately like I was amongst old friends that I had not seen for awhile and it was comforting and fun. And then all I wanted to do was read this book! I loved being back in Wagtail with Holly and Oma and Rose and all the peripheral characters that flow in and out of these books. And this one was really good as there seems to be multiple things going on at once and you have to try and figure out [along with Holly] if they are connected or all separate incidents. Add all the fun animals, their owners and all the antics that they can get up to, and then of course, M U R D E R [naturally], this becomes both a fun book and a WHOCANITBEIHAVENOIDEA kind of book. Because, for the first time in a L O N G time [one of the last cozies I read, I knew the who and why by chapter 5; NEVER a fun or enjoyable thing], I had absolutely NO CLUE [though I should have thinking back on it today] who the killer was OR the why. HOW glorious. I love it when that happens. Makes the reading experience even better. At least for me. ;-)
This is a fun and enjoyable read with plenty to keep you guessing and to keep you wondering and to keep you thankful. You will understand that last one once you have read it.
Thank you to NetGalley, Krista Davis, and Berkley Publishing Group for providing this ARC in exchange for an honest review
First, I need to say that I love this series. After reading several unsatisfactory books, I was looking forward to one that I knew I would enjoy, and this did NOT disappoint. I started reading it and it felt immediately like I was amongst old friends that I had not seen for awhile and it was comforting and fun. And then all I wanted to do was read this book! I loved being back in Wagtail with Holly and Oma and Rose and all the peripheral characters that flow in and out of these books. And this one was really good as there seems to be multiple things going on at once and you have to try and figure out [along with Holly] if they are connected or all separate incidents. Add all the fun animals, their owners and all the antics that they can get up to, and then of course, M U R D E R [naturally], this becomes both a fun book and a WHOCANITBEIHAVENOIDEA kind of book. Because, for the first time in a L O N G time [one of the last cozies I read, I knew the who and why by chapter 5; NEVER a fun or enjoyable thing], I had absolutely NO CLUE [though I should have thinking back on it today] who the killer was OR the why. HOW glorious. I love it when that happens. Makes the reading experience even better. At least for me. ;-)
This is a fun and enjoyable read with plenty to keep you guessing and to keep you wondering and to keep you thankful. You will understand that last one once you have read it.
Thank you to NetGalley, Krista Davis, and Berkley Publishing Group for providing this ARC in exchange for an honest review
January 30, 2021
“Big Little Spies” the 7th instalment in the "Paws and Claws” Mystery series by Krista Davis. This is one of my favourite cozy series, I love Trixie and Twinkletoes and the whole concept of Wagtail.
As with all the book previously I read in one sitting, I couldn’t put it down. The characters ate like old friends and the new characters the WAG ladies each bring something to the story and Wagtail, VA. I have a little terrier mix and two kittens, it reminds me of them and I love the antics that Trixie and Twinkletoes get up to around the hotel.
I never know who committed the murders until the end, and the food always makes me hungry - would love to vacation in a place where you and your dog are welcome everywhere. Wagtail is definitely somewhere I would love to live or visit.
I highly recommend this book to all my cozy lover friends. I can’t wait till the next book!
I requested and received an advance reader copy of this book from Berkeley Publishing Group and Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
As with all the book previously I read in one sitting, I couldn’t put it down. The characters ate like old friends and the new characters the WAG ladies each bring something to the story and Wagtail, VA. I have a little terrier mix and two kittens, it reminds me of them and I love the antics that Trixie and Twinkletoes get up to around the hotel.
I never know who committed the murders until the end, and the food always makes me hungry - would love to vacation in a place where you and your dog are welcome everywhere. Wagtail is definitely somewhere I would love to live or visit.
I highly recommend this book to all my cozy lover friends. I can’t wait till the next book!
I requested and received an advance reader copy of this book from Berkeley Publishing Group and Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
August 4, 2022
Another book I couldn't put down. This series is so fun anyways, but the mystery and twists in this one kept me wanting more! How do you find a killer when everyone is connected?? I love how much the animals take part in the story and the mystery. It is fun to imagine a world where cats and dogs roam free through town. My dogs do not know how to behave enough to be able to do that 🤣.
April 16, 2021
Another great addition. Wagtail is a picturesque town with a whole slew of quirky characters. This one had many twists and turn that kept me interested throughout. I highly recommend this series.
November 28, 2020
I love all the Krista Davis books, and have read them all. I think its the ambiance - I want to visit each place (and boy would I love to live in Wagtail!) and eat all the food and bask in all of the "themes".
Wagtail has set itself up to be an extremely dog and cat friendly place. In this book, there is an animal rescue fundraiser happening, and, of course, a murder. I liked the mystery, and had multiple guesses as to what was going on as different clues were uncovered. I would have loved to see more of the cute shops and restaurants in town, but the gala itself was great, and the picture on the cover is accurate :)
My thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for allowing me to read an advance copy of Big Little Spies. I'll always be looking for more from Krista Davis!
Wagtail has set itself up to be an extremely dog and cat friendly place. In this book, there is an animal rescue fundraiser happening, and, of course, a murder. I liked the mystery, and had multiple guesses as to what was going on as different clues were uncovered. I would have loved to see more of the cute shops and restaurants in town, but the gala itself was great, and the picture on the cover is accurate :)
My thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for allowing me to read an advance copy of Big Little Spies. I'll always be looking for more from Krista Davis!
December 8, 2020
Reading this book is like visiting old friends. Every book in the series gets better and better, with this latest installment being no exception. Wagtail is a place of dreams, the characters and their relationships developed more and more each installment. The mystery was full of twists and turns, not giving anything away. A perfect read!
March 31, 2021
Big Little Spies by Krista Davis is the 7th book in the Paws and Claws Mystery series, and another great addition. I love all of Ms. Davis series: Paws and Claws mystery, A Domestic Diva mystery, and the Pen & Ink mysterious. I highly recommend them all. Every time I read a Paws and Claws mystery, it feels like visiting old friends. Wagtail is a dog and cat friendly town. The animals can run loose, and stay in Inn, dine in restaurants, and shop with their owners. In this book, the ladies of the Wagtail Animal Guardians are in town to hold a pet adoption charity ball. When a retired judge loses his dog, they hire a pet detective to find him. Unfortunately the pet detective is found dead, and the sleuthing begins. I am looking forward to the next book in the series. I strongly recommend this book, you won't be disappointed.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
June 9, 2021
Krista Davis does it again! It was so nice to visit Holly and the gang in Wagtail, again. I couldn’t guess the killer, which is always a major plus for me. The characters are great, the setting is someplace I’d like to visit if it were real, and I’m so glad to see a certain couple together! I’ll continue to preorder anything by this author!
January 18, 2021
Number 7 in this series.
Inn owner, Holly Miller has a full house of women from the Wagtail Animal Guardians. They are in town for the pet adoption charity ball.
Holly and Trixie are crazy busy when she receives a call from her grandmother’s friend, Rose. It seems the recently widowed Judge has lost his german shepherd. The housekeeper has called in a pet detective but Rose thinks Holly and the gang can find him first.
And maybe they do, but finding a dead pet detective wasn’t on the list of things to do.
The ladies at the inn are acting sketchy and have each other's backs, but Holly isn’t so convinced that one of them isn’t a killer.
The characters in this series are adorable! The pups, the old ladies, even the cats play a role. Ms. Davis understands her audience very well and this is one of the best Cozy Mystery Series.
NetGalley/ March 30th, 2021 by Berkley Books
Inn owner, Holly Miller has a full house of women from the Wagtail Animal Guardians. They are in town for the pet adoption charity ball.
Holly and Trixie are crazy busy when she receives a call from her grandmother’s friend, Rose. It seems the recently widowed Judge has lost his german shepherd. The housekeeper has called in a pet detective but Rose thinks Holly and the gang can find him first.
And maybe they do, but finding a dead pet detective wasn’t on the list of things to do.
The ladies at the inn are acting sketchy and have each other's backs, but Holly isn’t so convinced that one of them isn’t a killer.
The characters in this series are adorable! The pups, the old ladies, even the cats play a role. Ms. Davis understands her audience very well and this is one of the best Cozy Mystery Series.
NetGalley/ March 30th, 2021 by Berkley Books
May 4, 2021
Book 7 in this mystery series
The woman of Wagtail Animal Guardians are in town for a pet adoption charity ball. Holly and her fur baby Trixie are busy keeping the ladies happy and getting ready for the ball when a retired judges loses his pup.
The judge has hired a pet detective who has personal ties to Holly’s new guests. His presence cause problems and when Holly finds him dead before the ball she has to wonder if one the WAG ladies is a killer, until some other guests nearly suffer the same fate.
Holly and Trixie must work fast to solve the mystery before the killer strikes again.
I love coming back to Wagtail and visiting with Holly and her fur babies and friends.
I can’t wait for the next book in this series!
The woman of Wagtail Animal Guardians are in town for a pet adoption charity ball. Holly and her fur baby Trixie are busy keeping the ladies happy and getting ready for the ball when a retired judges loses his pup.
The judge has hired a pet detective who has personal ties to Holly’s new guests. His presence cause problems and when Holly finds him dead before the ball she has to wonder if one the WAG ladies is a killer, until some other guests nearly suffer the same fate.
Holly and Trixie must work fast to solve the mystery before the killer strikes again.
I love coming back to Wagtail and visiting with Holly and her fur babies and friends.
I can’t wait for the next book in this series!
November 13, 2020
I have to admit to feeling behind it because I hadn't read any of the previous series books. That did not mean that I didn't enjoy it! Fascinating characters and creative sleuthing by humans and intriguing pets alike. Good read for a chilly afternoon.
I requested and received a free ebook copy from Berkley Publishing Group via NetGalley. Thank you!
I requested and received a free ebook copy from Berkley Publishing Group via NetGalley. Thank you!
September 18, 2024
4.5 stars
Big Little Spies by Krista Davis follows Holly Miller who is helping host a charity event in her family's hotel. Meanwhile in town, the local retired judge suspects someone has a listening device in his house and is playing pranks on him, including taking his dog. He hires an out of town pet detective who is later found dead but the dog is found safely alive. When people start going down due to poisoning like the one the pet detective died of, Holly must find the killer.
This is my favorite of all the Paws and Claws Mysteries so far. I really liked visiting the town and getting another glimpse at some of my favorite cozy mystery characters. I thought the book was entertaining the whole way. I was surprised at who the murder was so that is always fun. Overall, it was a really fun read and I recommend it to anyone who likes cozy mysteries. I think it would be okay as a standalone but it might be even better if you read the whole series.
Big Little Spies by Krista Davis follows Holly Miller who is helping host a charity event in her family's hotel. Meanwhile in town, the local retired judge suspects someone has a listening device in his house and is playing pranks on him, including taking his dog. He hires an out of town pet detective who is later found dead but the dog is found safely alive. When people start going down due to poisoning like the one the pet detective died of, Holly must find the killer.
This is my favorite of all the Paws and Claws Mysteries so far. I really liked visiting the town and getting another glimpse at some of my favorite cozy mystery characters. I thought the book was entertaining the whole way. I was surprised at who the murder was so that is always fun. Overall, it was a really fun read and I recommend it to anyone who likes cozy mysteries. I think it would be okay as a standalone but it might be even better if you read the whole series.
March 28, 2021
Krista Davis does not disappoint with this latest installment in the Paws & Claws Mystery series. This story was a neat little puzzle surrounding Wagtail Animal Guardians (WAG) ladies - they all are seemingly put together, but under the surface they each have many secrets lurking. There is a budding romance between Rose and a secret gentleman, Aunt Birdie is as feisty as ever, and the Inn is thriving. There is lots of craziness taking place in this story and, of course, there are no shortage of cats and dogs.
I was especially excited to see the character of Loki, a husky, who reminded me a lot of my husky Thor :)
4.8 stars.
I voluntarily reviewed this book on Netgalley.
I was especially excited to see the character of Loki, a husky, who reminded me a lot of my husky Thor :)
4.8 stars.
I voluntarily reviewed this book on Netgalley.
March 5, 2024
Creative and unique premise for a book series with the focus on pets set in the Shenandoah mountains of southern Virginia, along with murder, of course! More dogs and cats come to town for a large charity auction to benefit orphan pets, several with hidden pasts that eventually come to light.
This outing bogs down in the middle, after the first murder and after two of the local senior citizens end up in the hospital due to wolfsbane poisoning. Side stories of missing cats, hunting for wolfsbane in neighboring yards and then the old hidden stories begin to come to light.
All is revealed at end, including a cat thief, missing child-now adult, who and why the murder occured.
This outing bogs down in the middle, after the first murder and after two of the local senior citizens end up in the hospital due to wolfsbane poisoning. Side stories of missing cats, hunting for wolfsbane in neighboring yards and then the old hidden stories begin to come to light.
All is revealed at end, including a cat thief, missing child-now adult, who and why the murder occured.
April 18, 2021
No place like home
In this story.more people come to visit Wgtail I'm. The WAG ladies plan a gala to raise money for the stray animals. What no one knows is that someone in town doesn't know their long lost relative resides there to. The disappearance of the judges German Shepard starts the ball rolling. Just like a snowball things get bigger and bigger. This, as all the books in the series, makes me wish there really was a Wagtail. I'm sure you will feel the same way once you read this book.
In this story.more people come to visit Wgtail I'm. The WAG ladies plan a gala to raise money for the stray animals. What no one knows is that someone in town doesn't know their long lost relative resides there to. The disappearance of the judges German Shepard starts the ball rolling. Just like a snowball things get bigger and bigger. This, as all the books in the series, makes me wish there really was a Wagtail. I'm sure you will feel the same way once you read this book.
January 16, 2022
Holly, with her grandmother, runs a pet-friendly hotel, and becomes involved with women who run a pet rescue service. While there's a lot happening (pet-napping, long-lost relatives, bugging houses with listening devices), including murder, it's not always easy for the reader to understand why. Most of the hidden secrets come out at the end, and Holly triumphantly helps to unveil the murderer, who is surprisingly sympathetic. I do not usually read this series, preferring some of Davis' others, but picked this up more or less by mistake, so perhaps my opinion should be discounted.
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