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Kitty Beret Cafe Mystery #1
Hairballs and Homicide
When Ellie Warren opens the Kitty Beret Café, her life revolves around finding forever homes for rescued cats and serving lattes. That is, until a woman’s body is discovered behind her shop—the same woman who’d thrown a hissy fit with Ellie in front of lots of witnesses. With Ellie’s cat, Templeton, supplying clues and the help of handsome Detective Simon Dare, she’s on the prowl for the murderer. Will Ellie discover the identity of the culprit before the murderer sinks their claws into her?
239 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 26, 2020
37 people are currently reading
85 people want to read
About the author
Ruth J. Hartman
57 books204 followersRuth J. Hartman spends her days herding cats, and her nights spinning mysterious tales that make you smile. She, her husband, and their cats love to spend time curled up in their recliners watching old Cary Grant movies. Well, the cats sit in the people's recliners. Not that the cats couldn't get their own furniture. They just choose to shed on someone else's.
Ruth, a left-handed, cat-herding, farmhouse-dwelling mystery writer uses her goofy sense of humor as she writes tales of klutzy women who find trouble without even trying. Ruth's husband and best friend, Garry, reads her manuscripts, rolls his eyes at her weird story ideas, and loves her in spite of her insistence that all of her books have at least one cat in them.
Ruth, a left-handed, cat-herding, farmhouse-dwelling mystery writer uses her goofy sense of humor as she writes tales of klutzy women who find trouble without even trying. Ruth's husband and best friend, Garry, reads her manuscripts, rolls his eyes at her weird story ideas, and loves her in spite of her insistence that all of her books have at least one cat in them.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 90 reviews
June 24, 2020
Are you a crazy cat person and do you enjoy reading cozy mysteries? Then this book might be for you!
Set in a cat café called the Kitty Beret Café, there are cats crawling all over the place while customers enjoy their hot drinks and treats.
The drinks have cutesy cat inspired names such as Saucer of Milk Latte, Mocha Meow & Kalua Kitty Cup. The back room of the café is called the “ Purr Pen”, and the owner Ellie Warren, enjoys making cute costumes for each of the kittens to wear in the hopes that the customers will fall in love with one of the furballs & adopt him or her.
Strange things begin happening to Ellie when an odd woman, who definitely isn’t a fan of cats or the Kitty Beret Café, wanders in and began spouting about how much she hates cats, and how revolting it is to have live animals in a place where people eat & drink. She, of course, ends up murdered. One character even claims that the cats had murdered the odd angry woman....Hah!
And then there’s the obligatory romantic interest. For those who don’t like romance in their cozies, there’s a lot of daisy petal; he loves me, he loves me not, pulling here.
It all adds up to a light, easy breezy summer cozy that many will enjoy.
I wish I could have rated this book higher but while this book does have its moments, for the most part it was an eye-roller for me. I love cats to bits but this story involves too much minutiae about cat costumes, cat related events held at the café & not enough mystery. What really disappointed me was that the main character Ellie never actually investigates the murder or what’s happening to her. At one point someone breaks into her apartment & leaves a message on the wall that says “ leave this investigation alone or you’ll die next!”
This had me chuckling as Ellie wasn’t investigating anything....she left it all to the cops.
Ellie has all sorts of “private” & personal conversations (incl with the police) in the café, while customers are seated close by, and then wonders how people found out about her situation so quickly......guess she’s never cottoned on to using her office to discuss personal business?
The final headshaker is that strangers were forever walking into the café, berating Ellie, her business & threatening the cats. Ellie is mystified as to why this is all happening, but does absolutely nothing about it except wonder, why me?
My favourite character by far was Templeton, Ellie’s gray short-haired winking cat. That bumped my rating from a solid fair upwards towards good.
2.5 ⭐️s
A big thanks to Ruth J. Hartman and NetGalley for an advance copy.
Set in a cat café called the Kitty Beret Café, there are cats crawling all over the place while customers enjoy their hot drinks and treats.
The drinks have cutesy cat inspired names such as Saucer of Milk Latte, Mocha Meow & Kalua Kitty Cup. The back room of the café is called the “ Purr Pen”, and the owner Ellie Warren, enjoys making cute costumes for each of the kittens to wear in the hopes that the customers will fall in love with one of the furballs & adopt him or her.
Strange things begin happening to Ellie when an odd woman, who definitely isn’t a fan of cats or the Kitty Beret Café, wanders in and began spouting about how much she hates cats, and how revolting it is to have live animals in a place where people eat & drink. She, of course, ends up murdered. One character even claims that the cats had murdered the odd angry woman....Hah!
And then there’s the obligatory romantic interest. For those who don’t like romance in their cozies, there’s a lot of daisy petal; he loves me, he loves me not, pulling here.
It all adds up to a light, easy breezy summer cozy that many will enjoy.
I wish I could have rated this book higher but while this book does have its moments, for the most part it was an eye-roller for me. I love cats to bits but this story involves too much minutiae about cat costumes, cat related events held at the café & not enough mystery. What really disappointed me was that the main character Ellie never actually investigates the murder or what’s happening to her. At one point someone breaks into her apartment & leaves a message on the wall that says “ leave this investigation alone or you’ll die next!”
This had me chuckling as Ellie wasn’t investigating anything....she left it all to the cops.
Ellie has all sorts of “private” & personal conversations (incl with the police) in the café, while customers are seated close by, and then wonders how people found out about her situation so quickly......guess she’s never cottoned on to using her office to discuss personal business?
The final headshaker is that strangers were forever walking into the café, berating Ellie, her business & threatening the cats. Ellie is mystified as to why this is all happening, but does absolutely nothing about it except wonder, why me?
My favourite character by far was Templeton, Ellie’s gray short-haired winking cat. That bumped my rating from a solid fair upwards towards good.
2.5 ⭐️s
A big thanks to Ruth J. Hartman and NetGalley for an advance copy.
July 5, 2020
This book is more "cozy" than mystery. The main character spends her days dishing out coffee to her customers and making costumes for cats (no, I am not kidding). The Kitty Cafe has cats who are dressed in different costumes each day. She has regular customers who all have issues and like to gossip. The same details are repeated frequently about the case. I wanted less cats and more mystery. It is a lighthearted cozy mystery. I will provide my full review soon.
June 23, 2020
Hairballs and Homicide by Ruth Hartman is the 1st book in the Kitty Beret Cafe Mystery, and my first book by this author. I loved this book, can't wait for the next one. Ellie Warren owns Kitty Beret Cafe, which is a cafe and cat rescue in one. One day a women came into the cafe yelling about the cats and how horrible they are, the next thing you know she is found dead behind the cafe. I really enjoyed this book, but there were a bunch of people who hated cats and wanted them all dead. Honestly that really bothered me, are there people really like that? I highly recommend this book, if you enjoy cozy mysteries like I do.
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 25, 2020
Hairballs & Homicides is the first book in a new series by Ruth J. Hartman. As a fan of cats and a cat lover I was thrilled to review this new series for the author. Thank you to the publisher and to Net Galley for the opportunity.
Ellie Warren owns the "Kitty Beret Cafe", a coffee shop where customers can have coffee and baked goods while they visit with adoptable cats. I love the names of the coffee drinks such as "Saucer of Milk Latte, Mocha Meow & Kalua Kitty Cup." The back room of the cafe is called the “ Purr Pen” . Ellie is a fearless cat advocate and owns a adorable cat Templeton. When some anti cat people target her cafe and make trouble Ellie is worried. Unfortunately they have one mean customer who ends up dead near the cafe and taints the cafe with a bad reputation. People in town even accuse the "killer cats" of murdering the victim ! Ellie is also under suspicion by the investigating detective and must save her business by investigating on her own . Ellie has a smart cat named Templeton that will help her find the right suspect by cleverly putting her in the way of clues. Ellie and Templeton are a great team .
I love cat based cozies and this is one of my favorites. I enjoyed all of the supporting charcters ( including the cats!) and look forward to further books in the series. The sleuth was smart and had plenty of red herrings to keep me guessing. The cats are adorable and the author knows cats and their personalities. A very enjoyable fun read that I highly recommend.
Ellie Warren owns the "Kitty Beret Cafe", a coffee shop where customers can have coffee and baked goods while they visit with adoptable cats. I love the names of the coffee drinks such as "Saucer of Milk Latte, Mocha Meow & Kalua Kitty Cup." The back room of the cafe is called the “ Purr Pen” . Ellie is a fearless cat advocate and owns a adorable cat Templeton. When some anti cat people target her cafe and make trouble Ellie is worried. Unfortunately they have one mean customer who ends up dead near the cafe and taints the cafe with a bad reputation. People in town even accuse the "killer cats" of murdering the victim ! Ellie is also under suspicion by the investigating detective and must save her business by investigating on her own . Ellie has a smart cat named Templeton that will help her find the right suspect by cleverly putting her in the way of clues. Ellie and Templeton are a great team .
I love cat based cozies and this is one of my favorites. I enjoyed all of the supporting charcters ( including the cats!) and look forward to further books in the series. The sleuth was smart and had plenty of red herrings to keep me guessing. The cats are adorable and the author knows cats and their personalities. A very enjoyable fun read that I highly recommend.
June 28, 2020
This is a great start to a new series!
Ellie is a good character, she’s a dedicated cat lover and that comes across very clearly in this book.
Owning a cat cafe, Ellie is working hard to find furever homes for the cats in her care.
Unfortunately, not everyone is a feline lover, so when angry protesters show up at her store, she finds herself in the middle of a bizarre murder investigation.
The suspect list is long, and before long, Ellie finds herself the victim of cruel pranks. When hunky detective Simon is assigned to the case, Ellie finds herself attracted to him.
I had so many laugh out loud moments and I really enjoyed meeting the cast of colorful characters.
I’m looking forward to reading more in this series.
Ellie is a good character, she’s a dedicated cat lover and that comes across very clearly in this book.
Owning a cat cafe, Ellie is working hard to find furever homes for the cats in her care.
Unfortunately, not everyone is a feline lover, so when angry protesters show up at her store, she finds herself in the middle of a bizarre murder investigation.
The suspect list is long, and before long, Ellie finds herself the victim of cruel pranks. When hunky detective Simon is assigned to the case, Ellie finds herself attracted to him.
I had so many laugh out loud moments and I really enjoyed meeting the cast of colorful characters.
I’m looking forward to reading more in this series.
September 11, 2022
This book was well written and easy to read. The story was wonderful and great. The story was great at being descriptive. I enjoyed how different this story is from other cozy mysteries. I loved how much interaction there was with the cats. I enjoyed how life-like the cats were.
March 30, 2021
2 stelle e mezza
Questo libro prometteva bene, almeno dalla trama, ma ho avuto serie difficoltà. Il libro è ambientato in un cat café e fin qui nulla di male, ma sul tema "gatti" si va da una esagerazione all'altra: da una parte la protagonista veste (sì, avete letto bene: veste!) i suoi gatti che vuole dare in adozione (prova a farlo nella realtà...) dall'altra c'è un gruppo di odiatori di gatti che vorrebbe ucciderli tutti (mai sentito parlare del reato di maltrattamento degli animali? O in America non ce l'hanno?). Poi, una tipa è uccisa nel vialetto dietro il café, dopo aver minacciato la protagonista, ma quest'ultima non è mai sospettata perché il detective ha visto il suo passato (quale? non c'è una spiegazione) e ha deciso che non può averlo fatto (in altri libri c'è gente che è stata sospettata per molto meno). Inoltre, la protagonista non indaga, ma il suo gatto continua a portarle indizi su indizi: ok, i gatti prendono della roba che trovano nascosta, ma 5 o 6 volte e sempre collegata all'omicidio mi sembra un po' esagerato. Infine, non so perché, ma ho fatto una gran fatica a leggerlo, non perché fosse scritto in un inglese difficile, ma proprio perché non riuscivo ad andare avanti...
Questo libro prometteva bene, almeno dalla trama, ma ho avuto serie difficoltà. Il libro è ambientato in un cat café e fin qui nulla di male, ma sul tema "gatti" si va da una esagerazione all'altra: da una parte la protagonista veste (sì, avete letto bene: veste!) i suoi gatti che vuole dare in adozione (prova a farlo nella realtà...) dall'altra c'è un gruppo di odiatori di gatti che vorrebbe ucciderli tutti (mai sentito parlare del reato di maltrattamento degli animali? O in America non ce l'hanno?). Poi, una tipa è uccisa nel vialetto dietro il café, dopo aver minacciato la protagonista, ma quest'ultima non è mai sospettata perché il detective ha visto il suo passato (quale? non c'è una spiegazione) e ha deciso che non può averlo fatto (in altri libri c'è gente che è stata sospettata per molto meno). Inoltre, la protagonista non indaga, ma il suo gatto continua a portarle indizi su indizi: ok, i gatti prendono della roba che trovano nascosta, ma 5 o 6 volte e sempre collegata all'omicidio mi sembra un po' esagerato. Infine, non so perché, ma ho fatto una gran fatica a leggerlo, non perché fosse scritto in un inglese difficile, ma proprio perché non riuscivo ad andare avanti...
January 10, 2023
The cozy side of this mystery charmed me. All the cat details and interactions -- you definitely need to appreciate the feline species to enjoy this book! And a lot of it is...well, zany, over the top, sometimes even goofy. But, for me, that's a win. Definitely won't be every readers cup of tea...er dose of catnip? :-)
Love the kitty cafe setting and the mishmash of complimentary items Ellie carries. And she makes costumes for cats! (See, zany!) And this heroine is just easy to root for -- even during her most TSTL moments...which, alas, are a few. Which brings me to the mystery. There's lots of action, even danger, but I had a hard time connecting the dots between Ellie and her sleuthing -- because she doesn't so much actively sleuth as bad stuff happens to her...all the time. And there's an over the top cat haters angle that just seemed so extreme to me. I'm still charmed though, and hope there will be more additions to the series.
Love the kitty cafe setting and the mishmash of complimentary items Ellie carries. And she makes costumes for cats! (See, zany!) And this heroine is just easy to root for -- even during her most TSTL moments...which, alas, are a few. Which brings me to the mystery. There's lots of action, even danger, but I had a hard time connecting the dots between Ellie and her sleuthing -- because she doesn't so much actively sleuth as bad stuff happens to her...all the time. And there's an over the top cat haters angle that just seemed so extreme to me. I'm still charmed though, and hope there will be more additions to the series.
August 28, 2020
First in the Kitty Beret Cafe series shows definite "paw"tential. An unpleasant anti-feline customer shows up at the cafe not realizing that besides snacks and coffee are cats waiting to be adopted. Unfortunately she turns up murdered in the alley behind the cafe soon thereafter. And Ellie Warren, the owner of the cafe becomes the target of a harassment campaign. Luckily the detective reassigned to the case lives cats and seems to be underrated in Ellie. In the next book, I would like to see some tighter editing and as much depth in the human characters as there is in the feline ones. Recommended for cat fanciers. Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
September 18, 2022
I enjoyed this cozy mystery, it was a nice change of pace to me to dive into to read. Ellie Warren runs
Kitty Beret Cafe and also loves to sew little costumes for the cats that are in her cafe. It warms the heart a bit that all she wants is to find loving homes for these cats. Unfortunately, a not so nice lady comes into the Cafe and says unkind words and threatened Ellie and her cafe to run a story on how bad the cafe is and the cats. Later, the same lady, is discovered dead behind Ellie's cafe. Who would kill this lady and why? This is a sweet, cozy mystery. The cats made me chuckle especially Ellie's cat Templeton. Overall a very good story if you do enjoy a cozy mystery.
Kitty Beret Cafe and also loves to sew little costumes for the cats that are in her cafe. It warms the heart a bit that all she wants is to find loving homes for these cats. Unfortunately, a not so nice lady comes into the Cafe and says unkind words and threatened Ellie and her cafe to run a story on how bad the cafe is and the cats. Later, the same lady, is discovered dead behind Ellie's cafe. Who would kill this lady and why? This is a sweet, cozy mystery. The cats made me chuckle especially Ellie's cat Templeton. Overall a very good story if you do enjoy a cozy mystery.
June 29, 2020
Purrr-fect!!
This was a pleasantly light, somewhat humorous book. It's puurr-fect for cat lovers, with a beautiful murder-mystery and potential romance all tucked away in one spot. And, one could say, the hero is a CAT!!
This was a pleasantly light, somewhat humorous book. It's puurr-fect for cat lovers, with a beautiful murder-mystery and potential romance all tucked away in one spot. And, one could say, the hero is a CAT!!
June 27, 2020
Princess Fuzzypants here: First off, I must say I cannot understand anybody who has an issue with us kitties. And for some humans to hate us so much they would do us harm or harm a nice lady who runs a cafe that tries to find forever homes for us, it is beyond my ken.. The story starts with a harridan threatening Ellie about her cafe and her cats and then storming out. When she is found murdered by a cat toy behind the shop, Ellie becomes a purrson of interest.
Since she has a number of witnesses who can supply an alibi, she is stricken off the suspect list quickly. However, the cat hater organization, to which the victim belonged, does not accept her innocence. In fact, she is getting so many attempts on her life and her livelihood that the hunky detective assigned to the murder becomes her protector. He is more than aptly assisted by the man in her life, Templeton, her cat. Templeton is pawsome. Simon, the human isn’t bad either.
I do confess I did suspect the killer early on when he revealed his true nature. But it was an enchanting and entertaining romp to have him revealed and Ellie rescued by her heroes. I enjoyed this first tale and hope there will be others.
Five purrs and two paws up.
Since she has a number of witnesses who can supply an alibi, she is stricken off the suspect list quickly. However, the cat hater organization, to which the victim belonged, does not accept her innocence. In fact, she is getting so many attempts on her life and her livelihood that the hunky detective assigned to the murder becomes her protector. He is more than aptly assisted by the man in her life, Templeton, her cat. Templeton is pawsome. Simon, the human isn’t bad either.
I do confess I did suspect the killer early on when he revealed his true nature. But it was an enchanting and entertaining romp to have him revealed and Ellie rescued by her heroes. I enjoyed this first tale and hope there will be others.
Five purrs and two paws up.
August 14, 2021
4 Stars
Hairball and Homicide is the first book in the Kitty Beret Café Mystery series by Ruth J. Hartman. It is a cute cozy mystery- with some very quirky characters, a colourful cat café, murder, crime + investigation, humour, banter, a little romance, drama, and angst.
We meet Ellie Warren who owns the Kitty Beret Café where lattes and kitties abound. Life is good- until one of her crankier customers is found murdered, behind her café… and so the story begins.
This is a fun story to read with plenty of detailed descriptions that help set the scene/s. I love the original quirky premise of a cat café mystery series and am curious to see where we go from here. The only minor issue that I had is that the ‘mystery’ in the story got overshadowed somewhat by all the ‘cat’ elements, antics, shenanigans, costumes etc. Some of them were a little too long and involved and disrupted the flow of the actual ‘mystery’- but overall it was a fun and enjoyable story. I did adore Templeton though…
Thank you, Ruth J. Hartman!
Hairball and Homicide is the first book in the Kitty Beret Café Mystery series by Ruth J. Hartman. It is a cute cozy mystery- with some very quirky characters, a colourful cat café, murder, crime + investigation, humour, banter, a little romance, drama, and angst.
We meet Ellie Warren who owns the Kitty Beret Café where lattes and kitties abound. Life is good- until one of her crankier customers is found murdered, behind her café… and so the story begins.
This is a fun story to read with plenty of detailed descriptions that help set the scene/s. I love the original quirky premise of a cat café mystery series and am curious to see where we go from here. The only minor issue that I had is that the ‘mystery’ in the story got overshadowed somewhat by all the ‘cat’ elements, antics, shenanigans, costumes etc. Some of them were a little too long and involved and disrupted the flow of the actual ‘mystery’- but overall it was a fun and enjoyable story. I did adore Templeton though…
Thank you, Ruth J. Hartman!
September 12, 2022
Cozy mystery with a cat cafe? Sign me up!
Ellie Warren is the owner of Kitty Beret Cafe, a cat cafe with hopes of getting the kittens adopted.
When an older woman visits the cafe, sprouting how much she hates cats, Ellie is shocked. She is even more shocked when the same lady is found dead behind the shop. Could the cats have killed her?
It has been a while since I read a cozy mystery. For past few weeks haven’t been the best so being able to lose myself in a novel is a pleasure in life that doesn’t happen as much as it used to.
It has a predictable plot with a romance that I see a mile away. Which adds even more charm to it. It’s a fun read. Dressing up the cats in costumes was a bit annoying. Cute I’m sure, by annoying because of course cats aren’t much of a fan.
I wonder how many novels this will be. I look forward to the next Ellie adventure.
Ellie Warren is the owner of Kitty Beret Cafe, a cat cafe with hopes of getting the kittens adopted.
When an older woman visits the cafe, sprouting how much she hates cats, Ellie is shocked. She is even more shocked when the same lady is found dead behind the shop. Could the cats have killed her?
It has been a while since I read a cozy mystery. For past few weeks haven’t been the best so being able to lose myself in a novel is a pleasure in life that doesn’t happen as much as it used to.
It has a predictable plot with a romance that I see a mile away. Which adds even more charm to it. It’s a fun read. Dressing up the cats in costumes was a bit annoying. Cute I’m sure, by annoying because of course cats aren’t much of a fan.
I wonder how many novels this will be. I look forward to the next Ellie adventure.
June 25, 2020
I found this cozy mystery to be a comical and entertaining read. It has a really good concept, funny characters, comical dialogue and nice plot twists with a hint of a possible romance.
Ellie owns a cat cafe and meets some resistance from a few of the town folk that are not so cat friendly. Things do not look good for Ellie, when one of them turns up dead behind her cafe. Enters Simon, a police detective who is tying to solve the crime. But honestly, who is the real detective, Simon or Templeton?
Written as a 1st person, single pov with a completed mystery ending. The story could use a bit of tightening up, but overall, it was really enjoyable.
Would I recommend this book? Yes
Would I read more from this author? Yes
Sassy Beta Reading and Review
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Ellie owns a cat cafe and meets some resistance from a few of the town folk that are not so cat friendly. Things do not look good for Ellie, when one of them turns up dead behind her cafe. Enters Simon, a police detective who is tying to solve the crime. But honestly, who is the real detective, Simon or Templeton?
Written as a 1st person, single pov with a completed mystery ending. The story could use a bit of tightening up, but overall, it was really enjoyable.
Would I recommend this book? Yes
Would I read more from this author? Yes
Sassy Beta Reading and Review
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 1, 2020
I really enjoyed this story!! A good “who done it” with a little romance built in. And who can forget the sweet kitties involved!! I felt like Templeton could have been my cat. Such a mischievous boy!! The author did a great job keeping you guessing who the culprit was and kept you guessing until the end!! It was an easy read and hard to put down! I can not wait for the next book In the series, there were a few unanswered questions that I can’t wait to have answered! Highly recommended!! (I was given a prerelease copy by the author in return for my HONEST review)
April 5, 2020
Had a blast reading this book! The character development happened quickly enough that it was easy to fall into the story line and follow along. I appreciated how the story would carry you with it, and didn’t take obvious turns! I enjoyed being surprised along the way and found this a fun book to read! It was a longer read than I anticipated, which was nice, because just when you think you have it figured out and the story is wrapping up, well, it was like the toy surprise at the end. The cats, as always, played their parts brilliantly! I did receive an advance copy, but all opinions were mine!
September 10, 2021
This is the book I've been waiting to read all summer. I like a main character who has a cat that helps solve a mystery. The text is a bit repetitive but overall, it's a cute story and there are lots of cats.
June 29, 2020
This crazy cat lady 🐈 enjoyed this book. Can't wait for more.
July 8, 2020
I enjoyed reading this and it kept me guessing on the murderer. As I love cats and can't imagine not liking them the conflict between the characters because of the cat cafe was interesting. I liked the idea of a cat rescue cafe.
Thank you to the author, publisher and NetGalley for my eARC in exchange for an honest review.
Thank you to the author, publisher and NetGalley for my eARC in exchange for an honest review.
June 25, 2020
This is a new to me author. I really enjoyed this cozy mystery. It was well written with likable characters. There were many twists & turns until it was finally revealed at the end who did it. I hop to see more in this series.
June 26, 2020
Set aside an entire day for this family-friendly cat-centric mystery with Ellie Warren as the beset owner of the Kitty Beret Cafe.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 26, 2022
This was cute but so so frustratingly unserious at times, I just don’t think the writing style is for me. It’s giving hallmark channel original. The characters, dialogue, and pacing were very flat a lot of the time.
April 26, 2020
This was one of those cute and cozy reads that are perfect (or would that be purrfect) for a rainy day. I enjoyed the characters, (although I would have liked to have seen Ellie have more of a backbone and stand up for herself to some of these crazy people), and the story-line definitely kept me guessing.
I will say that some of the "villainous" characters in this novel were a bit too over-the-top for my tastes, but in the context of this story, they seemed to work. Her descriptions of the cats were also spot on (and usually filled with some laugh out loud moments). Hands down Templeton was my favorite of all of the ones mentioned. I loved the way he managed to be integral not only to the plot, but to helping solve the mystery as well.
What I wasn't expecting was the sweet romance that started blooming between Simon and Ellie. I loved the way it was added in more as an addition to the story, and didn't overpower the mystery aspect.
Overall, I definitely think this novel will appeal to people who enjoy cozy mystery novels with interesting characters (and cats)! I would read more from this author (and am in fact looking forward to the next installment of this series).
DISCLAIMER: I received a complimentary copy of this novel in exchange for my honest review. This has not affected my review in any way. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are 100% my own.
I will say that some of the "villainous" characters in this novel were a bit too over-the-top for my tastes, but in the context of this story, they seemed to work. Her descriptions of the cats were also spot on (and usually filled with some laugh out loud moments). Hands down Templeton was my favorite of all of the ones mentioned. I loved the way he managed to be integral not only to the plot, but to helping solve the mystery as well.
What I wasn't expecting was the sweet romance that started blooming between Simon and Ellie. I loved the way it was added in more as an addition to the story, and didn't overpower the mystery aspect.
Overall, I definitely think this novel will appeal to people who enjoy cozy mystery novels with interesting characters (and cats)! I would read more from this author (and am in fact looking forward to the next installment of this series).
DISCLAIMER: I received a complimentary copy of this novel in exchange for my honest review. This has not affected my review in any way. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are 100% my own.
May 28, 2020
I received and advanced copy of this book for review.
I love Ruth J Hartman's books, this one was no different! Hairballs and Homicide is a very different story than I am used to reading from Ms Hartman, but it pulled me right in and I could not put it down. I loved the fun aspects with the cats and cafe. The mystery had me intrigued throughout the entire book! I laughed out loud, many time. Ms Hartman's humor is always so refreshing and witty! Thank you Ruth for another great adventure!
I love Ruth J Hartman's books, this one was no different! Hairballs and Homicide is a very different story than I am used to reading from Ms Hartman, but it pulled me right in and I could not put it down. I loved the fun aspects with the cats and cafe. The mystery had me intrigued throughout the entire book! I laughed out loud, many time. Ms Hartman's humor is always so refreshing and witty! Thank you Ruth for another great adventure!
August 13, 2021
A café, cute cats, and a murder mystery. I think I was in love when I came across this book! I am a person who defiantly supports animals and finding forever homes for them as well and I do love my cozy murder mysteries so of course I had to pick this one up and give it a read. I am so glad I did!
The story is around our wonderful protagonist named Ellie. Whom is a total sweetheart and really loves cats and ensuring the welfares of their health. She runs an amazing café named Kitty Beret Café (Personally I would love to visit this place in real life) where cats free roam while customers enjoy kitty inspired drinks. Everything in the café is cat related and I found truly fun and humorous to read. I must admit reading those words of the names of the drinks made my heart smile more than once.
Everything seems so blissful for Ellie and her fur babies. Well, that is until anyway when an elderly lady who walks in has many complaints about the beautiful cats free roaming. She immediately was a character you strongly dislike. Not long after her scene she made about cursing out poor Ellie, she was found well murdered.
By whom was the true mystery that needed to unfold? Who would have motive and reason to kill her aside from her bashing a café so many people knew and loved. Worst of all Ellie is at risk of losing her café because she seems to have the motive. Ellie wasn't going to stop for this and she would have to rely on the instinct of her felines to help her! Especially her special one, he was very intelligent and he proved to be a wonderful side character and aided to the case very well. There was more characters introduced and I enjoyed them just as much. The detective (needless to say) was a character fun to imagine and easily could fall for as a reader. One thing was clear someone was out to get Ellie, but why and who? That is the mystery my dear friends and you will have to read to find out!
There was a lot things Ellie and her cats had to figure out. I loved how the author emphasized a lot on the cats The costumes, their habits, I really had fun reading that. It was a cozy mystery right up my alley. How could I not love this book? I also loved how this book kept be going there was quite a possibly list of people who could have murdered the lady who had the outburst. It kept me guessing as I read through and to be honest I was wrong with my guess in the end haha!
This was a delightful read and I truly enjoyed it. I never had read a book by this author, but from my love of this book, I can honestly say for a fact that I will. I am so glad I discovered this book and had a fun heartsome read as I read through. It had treats for the reader, as well as the cats. Highly recommend!
The story is around our wonderful protagonist named Ellie. Whom is a total sweetheart and really loves cats and ensuring the welfares of their health. She runs an amazing café named Kitty Beret Café (Personally I would love to visit this place in real life) where cats free roam while customers enjoy kitty inspired drinks. Everything in the café is cat related and I found truly fun and humorous to read. I must admit reading those words of the names of the drinks made my heart smile more than once.
Everything seems so blissful for Ellie and her fur babies. Well, that is until anyway when an elderly lady who walks in has many complaints about the beautiful cats free roaming. She immediately was a character you strongly dislike. Not long after her scene she made about cursing out poor Ellie, she was found well murdered.
By whom was the true mystery that needed to unfold? Who would have motive and reason to kill her aside from her bashing a café so many people knew and loved. Worst of all Ellie is at risk of losing her café because she seems to have the motive. Ellie wasn't going to stop for this and she would have to rely on the instinct of her felines to help her! Especially her special one, he was very intelligent and he proved to be a wonderful side character and aided to the case very well. There was more characters introduced and I enjoyed them just as much. The detective (needless to say) was a character fun to imagine and easily could fall for as a reader. One thing was clear someone was out to get Ellie, but why and who? That is the mystery my dear friends and you will have to read to find out!
There was a lot things Ellie and her cats had to figure out. I loved how the author emphasized a lot on the cats The costumes, their habits, I really had fun reading that. It was a cozy mystery right up my alley. How could I not love this book? I also loved how this book kept be going there was quite a possibly list of people who could have murdered the lady who had the outburst. It kept me guessing as I read through and to be honest I was wrong with my guess in the end haha!
This was a delightful read and I truly enjoyed it. I never had read a book by this author, but from my love of this book, I can honestly say for a fact that I will. I am so glad I discovered this book and had a fun heartsome read as I read through. It had treats for the reader, as well as the cats. Highly recommend!
July 12, 2020
Originally published on my blog: Nonstop Reader.
Hairballs and Homicide is the first book in a new kitty cozy mystery series by Ruth J. Hartman. Released 26th June 2020, it's 239 pages (ebook edition) and available in paperback and ebook formats.
This is a new series for the author and introduces cat cafe owner Ellie Warren and a cast of feline residents in her cafe which also facilitates adoptions of the kitties to patrons and friends. The premise is cute and indeed the whole is quirky and whimsical. The cats wear costumes sewn by Ellie supposedly to enhance their adoptability but mostly to pad out the narrative somewhat.
It *is* a cute and very very fluffy cozy, clean in all senses of the word, and safe and with language that probably wouldn't elicit a blush from anyone's maiden aunt (which is a good thing in a cozy). The problem is partly that it's a new series and the characters don't feel fleshed out, they're somewhat two-dimensional, the plotting is completely linear (most of the red herrings are resolved in less than a page), the human protagonist is a passive doormat, and some of the dialogue is, honestly, a bit cringe-worthy. Some of the humor fell flat for me, since much of it is at the expensive of main character Ellie's grandmother (Nana) whose romantic exploits drive much of the humor. The miscommunications and ridiculous misunderstandings on which the plot turns are unbelievable and broke my suspension of disbelief on several occasions during my reading.
Ellie's not so much an amateur sleuth as she is a plot vehicle for handing over clues to the de rigeur handsome police detective with whom she has a slow-burn schoolgirl crush. There is a strong romance subplot element and readers who enjoy chaste romance mysteries will find a lot to love here. The whole is a perfectly acceptable, engaging, readable cozy debut and it'll be interesting to see what the future holds for Templeton (Ellie's cat) and his human companions. Incidentally, there is no anthropomorphism in the books (no cat narration) apart from the costumes Ellie puts on the adoptee cats in the cafe.
Three and a half stars.
Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.
Hairballs and Homicide is the first book in a new kitty cozy mystery series by Ruth J. Hartman. Released 26th June 2020, it's 239 pages (ebook edition) and available in paperback and ebook formats.
This is a new series for the author and introduces cat cafe owner Ellie Warren and a cast of feline residents in her cafe which also facilitates adoptions of the kitties to patrons and friends. The premise is cute and indeed the whole is quirky and whimsical. The cats wear costumes sewn by Ellie supposedly to enhance their adoptability but mostly to pad out the narrative somewhat.
It *is* a cute and very very fluffy cozy, clean in all senses of the word, and safe and with language that probably wouldn't elicit a blush from anyone's maiden aunt (which is a good thing in a cozy). The problem is partly that it's a new series and the characters don't feel fleshed out, they're somewhat two-dimensional, the plotting is completely linear (most of the red herrings are resolved in less than a page), the human protagonist is a passive doormat, and some of the dialogue is, honestly, a bit cringe-worthy. Some of the humor fell flat for me, since much of it is at the expensive of main character Ellie's grandmother (Nana) whose romantic exploits drive much of the humor. The miscommunications and ridiculous misunderstandings on which the plot turns are unbelievable and broke my suspension of disbelief on several occasions during my reading.
Ellie's not so much an amateur sleuth as she is a plot vehicle for handing over clues to the de rigeur handsome police detective with whom she has a slow-burn schoolgirl crush. There is a strong romance subplot element and readers who enjoy chaste romance mysteries will find a lot to love here. The whole is a perfectly acceptable, engaging, readable cozy debut and it'll be interesting to see what the future holds for Templeton (Ellie's cat) and his human companions. Incidentally, there is no anthropomorphism in the books (no cat narration) apart from the costumes Ellie puts on the adoptee cats in the cafe.
Three and a half stars.
Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.
August 19, 2021
To be frank, I only just really became a cat lover over the last couple of years. I grew up always having dogs and have always favored them by far. I picked up this novel initially because I was feeling like I needed a change of pace with respect to the genre I have been quite keen on, and also I thought this was one of the most thought out titles I’ve come across as of late. Mysteries, especially murder mysteries are typically not something I’ve ever shown any interest in before, but I’m quite glad to have started on this Kitty Beret Café Mystery adventure.
Ruth J. Hartman does a spectacular job at setting the scene in which we explore within this novel, and an even better one at allowing the reader to get to know each of the characters involved. Ellie Warren is the owner of the Kitty Beret Café which is what and who the whole plot line revolves around. She is a sweet, single, cat loving café owner and operator that adores her dear fur babies and enjoys supporting and contributing to her community. You can tell right from the get-go that she has a big heart and will do everything she can to nurture and protect her loved ones. Unfortunately, the warm fuzzy feeling you get from visualizing this sweet cat café is short lived, as things start to get sideways for Ellie, and a murder victim is discovered right out behind her business, and she suddenly finds herself in the middle of the murder investigation. How intriguing!
I love the way that Ruth puts the time and effort into bringing new ideas, and scenery into this book, and the way she makes you want to keep reading, because so many questions are left unanswered. I personally look forward to the next Kitty Beret Café Mystery installment, as I want to know more about Ellie, her special furry friend Templeton, her Nana, and the detective that was on the murder case. The only thing I did find, was that there seemed to be A LOT happening at times, and I felt as though I was reading a series, rather than just one book. I did find it took away from the primary plot, but did find it to be quite enjoyable, nonetheless. Keep them coming, I’ll be keeping an eye out for the next book. Thank you, Ruth!
Ruth J. Hartman does a spectacular job at setting the scene in which we explore within this novel, and an even better one at allowing the reader to get to know each of the characters involved. Ellie Warren is the owner of the Kitty Beret Café which is what and who the whole plot line revolves around. She is a sweet, single, cat loving café owner and operator that adores her dear fur babies and enjoys supporting and contributing to her community. You can tell right from the get-go that she has a big heart and will do everything she can to nurture and protect her loved ones. Unfortunately, the warm fuzzy feeling you get from visualizing this sweet cat café is short lived, as things start to get sideways for Ellie, and a murder victim is discovered right out behind her business, and she suddenly finds herself in the middle of the murder investigation. How intriguing!
I love the way that Ruth puts the time and effort into bringing new ideas, and scenery into this book, and the way she makes you want to keep reading, because so many questions are left unanswered. I personally look forward to the next Kitty Beret Café Mystery installment, as I want to know more about Ellie, her special furry friend Templeton, her Nana, and the detective that was on the murder case. The only thing I did find, was that there seemed to be A LOT happening at times, and I felt as though I was reading a series, rather than just one book. I did find it took away from the primary plot, but did find it to be quite enjoyable, nonetheless. Keep them coming, I’ll be keeping an eye out for the next book. Thank you, Ruth!
August 17, 2021
As a book lover, a fan of cozy mysteries and a cat lover this novel is absolutely perfect as it combines all three! I loved this heartwarming and original story by a new author to me Ruth J. Hartman, and I will definitely be reading more of her books. This is the first in the ‘Kitty Beret Café Mysteries’ series and introduces the reader to the Kitty Beret Café and its owner Ellie Warren. The author does a great job of setting the scene, so much so I could picture myself (and my cat) at the café. As well as running the café, Ellie finds forever homes for rescued cats, but not everyone is a fan of cats and one lady in particular makes her opinion known to Ellie in front of a full café. Unfortunately that same women is then discovered murdered behind her cafe and her husband believes Ellie is the murderer. Thankfully Detective Simon Dare is less convinced that Ellie is a suspect but the handsome Detective is not impressed when she decides to investigate herself along with her cat Templeton, of course. Templeton is very good as supplying clues and soon Ellie is discovering the identity of the murderer but she is unaware that she has put herself in their sights and is in danger.
The storyline flows well and is a lighthearted and fun read. The plot is full of quirky characters, drama, a murder mystery to solve and even romance, along with cats to keep you hooked and happily turning the pages. The descriptive narrative really brings both the quirky characters and the unique setting of the café to life and I felt completely immersed in the story. I was kept guessing as to the identity of the murderer and enjoyed solving the crime along with Ellie. I just wish I had a place like the Kitty Beret Café that I could visit along with my cat! An enjoyable and engaging read and I am already looking forward to book two.
The storyline flows well and is a lighthearted and fun read. The plot is full of quirky characters, drama, a murder mystery to solve and even romance, along with cats to keep you hooked and happily turning the pages. The descriptive narrative really brings both the quirky characters and the unique setting of the café to life and I felt completely immersed in the story. I was kept guessing as to the identity of the murderer and enjoyed solving the crime along with Ellie. I just wish I had a place like the Kitty Beret Café that I could visit along with my cat! An enjoyable and engaging read and I am already looking forward to book two.
September 17, 2022
This book was right up my alley. A strong independent cat lady who owned a cafe that homed and adopted out rescue kitties? On top of that, a cat who also has a knack for finding clues? Yes please!
Ellie is the owner of ‘Kitty Beret Cafe’. Being a cat lover, she opened the cafe in hopes of helping strays and rescues find their furrever homes. One day a woman comes in and starts causing a scene about the cats. The woman detested cats and thought they had no place near food and drink. They were unsanitary and evil. Ellie, of course, tried to defend her cafe and the cats but the woman wouldn’t hear any of it.
A couple hours later, police showed up at the cafe. The woman was found dead behind the cafe. The murder weapon a cat toy. Simon, the cop on the case, instantly has a connection with Templeton (Ellie’s cat) who normally couldn’t be bothered with anyone. Threatening things start happening to Ellie that seem to connect to the murder.
Templeton keeps finding clues around the cafe. Which Ellie presented to the police helping the investigation.
The way the author wrote Templeton was perfect. He reminds me of my grumpy old man cat. Especially when the author humanizes him with certain reactions. He was by far my favorite character.
Kitty love took precedence to the murder which was supposed to be the whole point of the mystery aspect of the book. I did not have an issue with this as I absolutely adore cats but it could be off putting to others.
Ellie is the owner of ‘Kitty Beret Cafe’. Being a cat lover, she opened the cafe in hopes of helping strays and rescues find their furrever homes. One day a woman comes in and starts causing a scene about the cats. The woman detested cats and thought they had no place near food and drink. They were unsanitary and evil. Ellie, of course, tried to defend her cafe and the cats but the woman wouldn’t hear any of it.
A couple hours later, police showed up at the cafe. The woman was found dead behind the cafe. The murder weapon a cat toy. Simon, the cop on the case, instantly has a connection with Templeton (Ellie’s cat) who normally couldn’t be bothered with anyone. Threatening things start happening to Ellie that seem to connect to the murder.
Templeton keeps finding clues around the cafe. Which Ellie presented to the police helping the investigation.
The way the author wrote Templeton was perfect. He reminds me of my grumpy old man cat. Especially when the author humanizes him with certain reactions. He was by far my favorite character.
Kitty love took precedence to the murder which was supposed to be the whole point of the mystery aspect of the book. I did not have an issue with this as I absolutely adore cats but it could be off putting to others.
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