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A Cat Groomer Mystery #1
The Persian Always Meows Twice
Cat lovers are thrilled to welcome an expert groomer to the picturesque town of Chadwick. But scratch below the surface, and unmasking a killer becomes a game of cat and mouse . . .
When the fur starts flying, Cassie McGlone, owner of Cassie's Comfy Cats, handles her feistiest four-legged clients with a caring touch and nerves of steel. While these qualities certainly help keep her business purring, they also come in handy when she makes a house call to her best client, millionaire George DeLeuw, and discovers his murdered body next to his newly orphaned Persian, Harpo. A cat whisperer like Cassie might be able to coax out some important clues from Harpo, but she needs to tread lightly and remember she gets one life, not nine. . . . "Fans of felines will appreciate Cassie's demonstrated attachment to the master species, which Watkins successfully integrates throughout her debut, a deft blend of mystery and cat love."
When the fur starts flying, Cassie McGlone, owner of Cassie's Comfy Cats, handles her feistiest four-legged clients with a caring touch and nerves of steel. While these qualities certainly help keep her business purring, they also come in handy when she makes a house call to her best client, millionaire George DeLeuw, and discovers his murdered body next to his newly orphaned Persian, Harpo. A cat whisperer like Cassie might be able to coax out some important clues from Harpo, but she needs to tread lightly and remember she gets one life, not nine. . . . "Fans of felines will appreciate Cassie's demonstrated attachment to the master species, which Watkins successfully integrates throughout her debut, a deft blend of mystery and cat love."
304 pages, Audible Audio
First published September 26, 2017
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 169 reviews
August 30, 2017
Cassie McGlone moved to the picturesque town of Chadwick to give herself a fresh start after leaving a horrible relationship. Opening her own shop, Cassie’s Comfy Cats, a cat grooming and boarding specialty boutique she's starting to make a name for herself around the town and gather a list of clients. However when Cassie makes a house call to a rich but reclusive client she finds herself walking into a murder scene and added to the suspect list after having discovered the body.
To help the local police and to clear her own name in the crime Cassie begins her own investigation into just what had happened to her client. Meanwhile Cassie can't help but worry about Harpo, the newly orphaned Persian that Cassie had been grooming for her now deceased client so she pushes to take care of him until the estate is settled. While in Cassie's care Harpo becomes a hot ticket as some of those involved believe he may come with an inheritance but before long Cassie finds herself in danger having Harpo in her care.
The Persian Always Meows Twice by Eileen Watkins is the first book in the new cozy mystery series A Cat Groomer Mystery. This first installment was a solid read with all the fun cozy elements that readers would expect from this genre. We had a strong female lead with a somewhat quirky environment that questions everything and everyone when she's faced with a murder. There's a good selection of potential suspects as the book goes on leaving the reader guessing as to who the murderer may be.
With this one being centered around a cat groomer I'd definitely say the book is for cat lovers as the author does get very detailed and specific to that profession to the point that I almost wondered if it was a bit too much kitty info in the beginning. But once the story start going it was easy to like the characters and get into the flow of the mystery. I'd also note that while most books of this nature have the police constantly saying stay out of the investigation it was kind of nice to have a detective admit that someone like Cassie may get people to open up and talk more than the police would.
Overall, a nice start to this series and I'd certainly continue on to see just what happens next.
I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.wordpress....
To help the local police and to clear her own name in the crime Cassie begins her own investigation into just what had happened to her client. Meanwhile Cassie can't help but worry about Harpo, the newly orphaned Persian that Cassie had been grooming for her now deceased client so she pushes to take care of him until the estate is settled. While in Cassie's care Harpo becomes a hot ticket as some of those involved believe he may come with an inheritance but before long Cassie finds herself in danger having Harpo in her care.
The Persian Always Meows Twice by Eileen Watkins is the first book in the new cozy mystery series A Cat Groomer Mystery. This first installment was a solid read with all the fun cozy elements that readers would expect from this genre. We had a strong female lead with a somewhat quirky environment that questions everything and everyone when she's faced with a murder. There's a good selection of potential suspects as the book goes on leaving the reader guessing as to who the murderer may be.
With this one being centered around a cat groomer I'd definitely say the book is for cat lovers as the author does get very detailed and specific to that profession to the point that I almost wondered if it was a bit too much kitty info in the beginning. But once the story start going it was easy to like the characters and get into the flow of the mystery. I'd also note that while most books of this nature have the police constantly saying stay out of the investigation it was kind of nice to have a detective admit that someone like Cassie may get people to open up and talk more than the police would.
Overall, a nice start to this series and I'd certainly continue on to see just what happens next.
I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.wordpress....
September 5, 2017
Cassie McGlone has her own cat-grooming and boarding business. She soon finds herself embroiled in a murder mystery when she goes to a client's home to groom Harpo the cat, and stumbles upon a murder scene instead.
She soon finds herself being considered a suspect, so in order to clear her own name she takes it upon herself to independently investigate the murder. During the course of her sleuthing, she's kind enough to board Harpo, at least until the victim's estate is settled and the will has been read.
This leads to a twist in the story that's sure to delight fans of cozy mysteries. I thoroughly enjoyed this story and look forward to reading the next book in the series.
Thanks to Netgalley.
She soon finds herself being considered a suspect, so in order to clear her own name she takes it upon herself to independently investigate the murder. During the course of her sleuthing, she's kind enough to board Harpo, at least until the victim's estate is settled and the will has been read.
This leads to a twist in the story that's sure to delight fans of cozy mysteries. I thoroughly enjoyed this story and look forward to reading the next book in the series.
Thanks to Netgalley.
November 23, 2020
Entertaining debut! I enjoyed the cast of characters and the protagonist owning a cats only grooming business. There was humor in the perils of the cat grooming! The mystery was solid—it had me fooled. On to the next book in this Cat Groomer series....
September 28, 2017
Dollycas’s Thoughts
I have been excited about this book since I saw the cover on Amazon months ago and it was well worth the wait.
Our protagonist is Cassie McGlone, owner of Cassie’s Comfy Cats in Chadwick, New Jersey. She makes house calls for her top client, millionaire George DeLeuw, to groom his beautiful Persian, Harpo. When she arrives for her scheduled appointment she finds Harpo next to George’s dead body. The police are asking a lot of questions, even casting Cassie as a suspect. They are really getting nowhere until Cassie boards the furry feline at Comfy Cats and then several people become very interested in Harpo’s well being and go to great and dangerous lengths to get their hands on the pretty Persian.
I fell for the characters in this story immediately. Cassie, her friend Dawn, and her new employee Sarah are so well developed for the first book in this series. We also meet local veterinarian Mark who Cassie and I would both like to get to know better. The author also gives us a nice variety of suspects from the ex-wife, to the housekeeper, and more. Of course, they are some furry characters too, that I absolutely loved!
The plot has some really nice twists. I thought I had figured out a very important clue and was pretty proud of myself until I found out I was totally wrong. The author manages to drop a key clue here and there as she tells us about cat grooming and Cassie’s life. There are also a couple of very suspenseful moments that had me sitting up straight in my chair and really paying attention. At first I didn’t think the story was fast paced until I reached the end and realized I had read the whole thing in one sitting. To say I escaped into the book is a true understatement.
I love the theme of the series as I am a cat lover, the characters are some I want to get to know better, and if future mysteries are this entertaining, Eileen Watkins will have a hit series on her hands. The Bengal Identity will be released March 27, 2018 and it is already on my wish list.
A cat-ivating cozy for all cozy lovers but for true cat lovers this is a must read!
I have been excited about this book since I saw the cover on Amazon months ago and it was well worth the wait.
Our protagonist is Cassie McGlone, owner of Cassie’s Comfy Cats in Chadwick, New Jersey. She makes house calls for her top client, millionaire George DeLeuw, to groom his beautiful Persian, Harpo. When she arrives for her scheduled appointment she finds Harpo next to George’s dead body. The police are asking a lot of questions, even casting Cassie as a suspect. They are really getting nowhere until Cassie boards the furry feline at Comfy Cats and then several people become very interested in Harpo’s well being and go to great and dangerous lengths to get their hands on the pretty Persian.
I fell for the characters in this story immediately. Cassie, her friend Dawn, and her new employee Sarah are so well developed for the first book in this series. We also meet local veterinarian Mark who Cassie and I would both like to get to know better. The author also gives us a nice variety of suspects from the ex-wife, to the housekeeper, and more. Of course, they are some furry characters too, that I absolutely loved!
The plot has some really nice twists. I thought I had figured out a very important clue and was pretty proud of myself until I found out I was totally wrong. The author manages to drop a key clue here and there as she tells us about cat grooming and Cassie’s life. There are also a couple of very suspenseful moments that had me sitting up straight in my chair and really paying attention. At first I didn’t think the story was fast paced until I reached the end and realized I had read the whole thing in one sitting. To say I escaped into the book is a true understatement.
I love the theme of the series as I am a cat lover, the characters are some I want to get to know better, and if future mysteries are this entertaining, Eileen Watkins will have a hit series on her hands. The Bengal Identity will be released March 27, 2018 and it is already on my wish list.
A cat-ivating cozy for all cozy lovers but for true cat lovers this is a must read!
October 10, 2017
Cassie McGlone is a cat groomer, and runs her own business, Cassie's Comfy Cats. She deals with finicky felines all day and loves her job. Her job gets a lot more serious when she makes a house call to groom a client's pampered persian, only to discover the dead body of George DeLeuw. Reeling from the shock of finding her best client murdered, Cassie receives permission to board his cat, Harpo, until the will is probated. That's where the real trouble begins. Suddenly, everyone seems to want the cat for reasons that have nothing to do with the fact that Harpo is a gorgeous persian. Who killed George DeLeuw? And where does his orphaned kitty figure into it? Cassie knows for both George and Harpo's sake she needs to discover the killer's identity.
This is a great start to a new cozy series -- The Cat Groomer Mystery series! I enjoyed this book from beginning to end. The mystery is very well written with some real surprises. Cassie is an intelligent and fun main character. The background theme of cats and cat grooming added to the plot, and made the book more interesting. I do not envy people who choose a career that involves bathing cats on a daily basis -- so Cassie is not only smart, but BRAVE. :) There were a couple side plots that helped with character development, but not in such a way as to overwhelm the mystery elements of the story.
I did have to laugh at one point though...Cassie is thoroughly against cats being allowed to sleep in her bedroom at night. BUT....she is ok with them being on the table when she eats. I think I would much rather have a warm kitty cuddled with me at night than have them on the table near my food while I'm eating. :)
All in all, a great cozy mystery that I very much enjoyed. The cover is awesome. Who can resist a sweet persian punim! :)
A second book in the Cat Groomer Mystery series, The Bengal Identity, will be released in March 2018! :)
**I voluntarily read an advanced readers copy from Kensington via NetGalley. All opinions expressed are entirely my own**
This is a great start to a new cozy series -- The Cat Groomer Mystery series! I enjoyed this book from beginning to end. The mystery is very well written with some real surprises. Cassie is an intelligent and fun main character. The background theme of cats and cat grooming added to the plot, and made the book more interesting. I do not envy people who choose a career that involves bathing cats on a daily basis -- so Cassie is not only smart, but BRAVE. :) There were a couple side plots that helped with character development, but not in such a way as to overwhelm the mystery elements of the story.
I did have to laugh at one point though...Cassie is thoroughly against cats being allowed to sleep in her bedroom at night. BUT....she is ok with them being on the table when she eats. I think I would much rather have a warm kitty cuddled with me at night than have them on the table near my food while I'm eating. :)
All in all, a great cozy mystery that I very much enjoyed. The cover is awesome. Who can resist a sweet persian punim! :)
A second book in the Cat Groomer Mystery series, The Bengal Identity, will be released in March 2018! :)
**I voluntarily read an advanced readers copy from Kensington via NetGalley. All opinions expressed are entirely my own**
April 16, 2020
Fun and entertaining!
May 20, 2023
I'm a sucker for a mystery with cats, particularly if they play a starring role. This one was a good introduction to the series. A solid mystery
March 18, 2019
Cassie left an abusive relationship and headed to where her best friend (Dawn) has a health good store, Cassie then opens a cat boarding and grooming parlour, she is starting to build up her client list, one special client though she travels to his rather palatial mansion as he has a fully equiped grooming room set up. On this day she has interviewed (and taken on) an assistant (Sarah) and she leaves her in charge whilst she heads off to groom Harpo the Persian cat, when she arrives at DeLeuw's house she is startled to find Harpo outside, she is even more startled to find George DeLeuw dead.
Now she needs to look after Harpo, tell her mother what happened (oh and come clean about why she left) and try and keep her handyman and his son out of jail!
Now she needs to look after Harpo, tell her mother what happened (oh and come clean about why she left) and try and keep her handyman and his son out of jail!
October 13, 2017
The purr-fect read for the cat-loving cozy mystery lover! Felines abound in this intricately-woven mystery, where every suspect has an agenda and no one can be trusted. Main character Cassie, a cat groomer with a psychology degree, charmed me with her ingenuity, her intelligence, and her courage--but most of all with her dedication to cats. I'm anxious to read the second installment in this promising new series.
August 19, 2017
The first book in a new series featuring Cassie McGlone, a cat groomer. It is an easy and informative read. It covers cat grooming, rescue, clicker training and kitten training. Cassie best friend, Dawn Tischler owns a health food store who adopts a kitten. Cassie has three recuse 3 cats that live with her. She has open a cat grooming and boarding store. I like the way the homicide detective works with Cassie.
Cassie goes to groom a Persian cat, Harpo and finds his owner dead. She is concern about what will happen to Harpo and becomes involved with his owner's friends and relatives. Eventually, it is decided that Harpo will be a boarder until the will is read. Suddenly, his owner friends and relatives want Harpo. Why is everyone interested in the cat? The are a number of twists and turns that hold the reader's attention. The ending will surprise. I am looking forward to reading the next book.
Disclosure: I received a free copy from Kensington Books through NetGalley for an honest review. I would like to thank them for this opportunity to read and review the book. The opinions expressed are my own.
Cassie goes to groom a Persian cat, Harpo and finds his owner dead. She is concern about what will happen to Harpo and becomes involved with his owner's friends and relatives. Eventually, it is decided that Harpo will be a boarder until the will is read. Suddenly, his owner friends and relatives want Harpo. Why is everyone interested in the cat? The are a number of twists and turns that hold the reader's attention. The ending will surprise. I am looking forward to reading the next book.
Disclosure: I received a free copy from Kensington Books through NetGalley for an honest review. I would like to thank them for this opportunity to read and review the book. The opinions expressed are my own.
May 12, 2018
Fast, enjoyable read. I'll definitely be picking up the second in the series.
September 25, 2018
4 stelle e mezza
Questo libro è stato una piacevole sorpresa: trovo che è stato ben scritto, con una trama che riesce a mantenere viva l'attenzione anche quando non parla dell'investigazione e un bel cast di personaggi (umani e felini). Anche se, alla fin fine, la soluzione del giallo era abbastanza ovvio, più volte mi sono domandata se stavo sbagliando.
Il secondo libro della serie è già sul mio kindle, complice uno sconto: credo che lo leggerò abbastanza presto...
Questo libro è stato una piacevole sorpresa: trovo che è stato ben scritto, con una trama che riesce a mantenere viva l'attenzione anche quando non parla dell'investigazione e un bel cast di personaggi (umani e felini). Anche se, alla fin fine, la soluzione del giallo era abbastanza ovvio, più volte mi sono domandata se stavo sbagliando.
Il secondo libro della serie è già sul mio kindle, complice uno sconto: credo che lo leggerò abbastanza presto...
April 19, 2018
A cozy about a cat groomer who discovers the dead body of a wealthy client. There are some good characters including the cat, Harpo, It was slow paced at the beginning but then took off mid-way.
It's the first in the series.
It's the first in the series.
February 18, 2022
Decent enough mystery with likable characters and good cat content.
September 25, 2017
The Persian Always Meows Twice
A Cat Groomer Mystery, Book #1
Eileen Watkins
5 Stars
Synopsis:
Cat lovers are thrilled to welcome an expert groomer to the picturesque town of Chadwick. But scratch below the surface, and unmasking a killer becomes a game of cat and mouse . . .
Professional cat grooming isn't all fluff--when the fur starts flying, Cassie McGlone, owner of Cassie's Comfy Cats, handles her feistiest four-legged clients with a caring touch and nerves of steel. While these qualities certainly help keep her business purring, they also come in handy when she makes a house call to her best client, millionaire George DeLeuw, and discovers his murdered body next to his newly orphaned Persian, Harpo.
To help the local police find the actual killer, Cassie begins her own investigation. But no one, from George's housekeeper to his vindictive ex-wife, is giving up clues. Not until Cassie is given permission to temporarily board Harpo does anyone show interest in the Persian's wellbeing. Someone is desperate to get their paws on Harpo before the feline helps untangle a felony. Are there deadly truths that a cat whisperer like Cassie can coax out? She needs to tread lightly and remember she gets one life, not nine. . . .
"A delightful debut mystery. It's smart, well-plotted, and features a cast of characters--both human and feline--that I want to see more of. This book will be catnip for cat lovers." --Laurien Berenson, author of Wagging through the Snow
"The purr-fect mystery to curl up with for a lovely cozy read, preferably with a cup of tea, cuddly cat optional but recommended." --Leslie Meier, author of Turkey Trot Murder
(Goodreads)
Review:
Cassie is a hard worker who wants to make her cat grooming/boarding house a success. So far things are working out well for her, but when one of her best customers is found dead, she is worried the death will change that. Not only will she not have his business to count on, since she is the one that found the body, she is afraid that will negatively affect her. Being somewhat nosy by nature, she decides to help in the investigation any way she can.
The characters are well rounded and well developed. I liked Cassie, I thought she was a no-nonsense type of woman. The secondary characters, including her friend Dawn and her employee Sarah, were also well developed and people I would like to get to know better. There is also a possible love interest for her, the local vet, Mark. And all of the cats had their own personalities and added so much to the story.
The writing style flows smoothly and the book is an easy read. I thought the mystery was well thought out and had enough suspects and twists and turns to keep the reader guessing. I liked the fact that Cassie did not put herself in danger while investigating the murder like so many protagonists do.
I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a well crafted cozy. If you love cats, all the better. I am looking forward to reading the next one when it is published.
I received a free copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for a honest review. I would like to thank NetGalley and Kensington Books for the opportunity to read and review this book.
A Cat Groomer Mystery, Book #1
Eileen Watkins
5 Stars
Synopsis:
Cat lovers are thrilled to welcome an expert groomer to the picturesque town of Chadwick. But scratch below the surface, and unmasking a killer becomes a game of cat and mouse . . .
Professional cat grooming isn't all fluff--when the fur starts flying, Cassie McGlone, owner of Cassie's Comfy Cats, handles her feistiest four-legged clients with a caring touch and nerves of steel. While these qualities certainly help keep her business purring, they also come in handy when she makes a house call to her best client, millionaire George DeLeuw, and discovers his murdered body next to his newly orphaned Persian, Harpo.
To help the local police find the actual killer, Cassie begins her own investigation. But no one, from George's housekeeper to his vindictive ex-wife, is giving up clues. Not until Cassie is given permission to temporarily board Harpo does anyone show interest in the Persian's wellbeing. Someone is desperate to get their paws on Harpo before the feline helps untangle a felony. Are there deadly truths that a cat whisperer like Cassie can coax out? She needs to tread lightly and remember she gets one life, not nine. . . .
"A delightful debut mystery. It's smart, well-plotted, and features a cast of characters--both human and feline--that I want to see more of. This book will be catnip for cat lovers." --Laurien Berenson, author of Wagging through the Snow
"The purr-fect mystery to curl up with for a lovely cozy read, preferably with a cup of tea, cuddly cat optional but recommended." --Leslie Meier, author of Turkey Trot Murder
(Goodreads)
Review:
Cassie is a hard worker who wants to make her cat grooming/boarding house a success. So far things are working out well for her, but when one of her best customers is found dead, she is worried the death will change that. Not only will she not have his business to count on, since she is the one that found the body, she is afraid that will negatively affect her. Being somewhat nosy by nature, she decides to help in the investigation any way she can.
The characters are well rounded and well developed. I liked Cassie, I thought she was a no-nonsense type of woman. The secondary characters, including her friend Dawn and her employee Sarah, were also well developed and people I would like to get to know better. There is also a possible love interest for her, the local vet, Mark. And all of the cats had their own personalities and added so much to the story.
The writing style flows smoothly and the book is an easy read. I thought the mystery was well thought out and had enough suspects and twists and turns to keep the reader guessing. I liked the fact that Cassie did not put herself in danger while investigating the murder like so many protagonists do.
I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a well crafted cozy. If you love cats, all the better. I am looking forward to reading the next one when it is published.
I received a free copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for a honest review. I would like to thank NetGalley and Kensington Books for the opportunity to read and review this book.
May 31, 2018
Excellent new first-in-series! This crazy cat lady very much enjoyed this cozy mystery, the setting for which is Cassie's Comfy Cats in Chadwick, NJ. Cassie has recently purchased this beautiful 100+ year old home to use as a cat boarding and grooming facility after becoming a certified animal behaviorist and groomer. I was happy to meet a lovable Persian, Cassie's companion cats and those she boards, and was introduced to a mystery that keep me engaged and looking for the bad guy/ gal.
Cassie left behind a stalking ex-boyfriend in Morristown, opening her business in a small town she was familiar with when visiting best friend, Dawn, who has a health food store in Chadwick. She is slowly building her business, beginning with the one cat she grooms in his home. Harpo is an adorable Persian whose very wealthy owner, George DeLeux, has his own in-home grooming room. When arriving for the regular appointment, Harpo was outside the McMansion and the front door was open, both highly unusual events. Once inside, Harpo led her to his master and friend, who was lying face down with a head injury, dead.
Cassie couldn't imagine the man having any enemies, but he must have had at least one. The only suspect so far is Dion Janos, son of Cassie's handyman. As she asks a few questions around town and at the visitation, Cassie makes someone very nervous, sufficiently so that unusual incidents occur. Detective Angela Bonelli, assigned to the case, is willing to hear what Cassie finds as she knows Cassie might hear things the cops would not. George's attorney agreed to allow Cassie to board Harpo until the will is read, but suddenly Harpo becomes valuable to his only two family members. And Cassie becomes a target.
I like Cassie and her dedication to caring for her own cats as well as those who are boarded with her. We learn the most about her, bringing a 3-dimensional woman to the forefront. She hires Sarah, a former high school math teacher as her assistant. While much of her personal past is deflected, there is no doubt she is a willing learner and hard worker. And she becomes a valuable employee and friend. Others that I look forward to getting to know better are Angela Bonelli and local veterinarian Mark Coccia.
The author is adept at putting together scenes in such a way as to increase suspense or keeping the momentum going. This reader was drawn in from the first page and I was sorry to turn the last page. Plot twists introduce new suspects while eliminating others, and crimes behind the murder require the work of the FBI. The ending is nothing short of exciting and very satisfying. I highly recommend this cozy mystery to crazy (or not so crazy) cat lovers everywhere!
Cassie left behind a stalking ex-boyfriend in Morristown, opening her business in a small town she was familiar with when visiting best friend, Dawn, who has a health food store in Chadwick. She is slowly building her business, beginning with the one cat she grooms in his home. Harpo is an adorable Persian whose very wealthy owner, George DeLeux, has his own in-home grooming room. When arriving for the regular appointment, Harpo was outside the McMansion and the front door was open, both highly unusual events. Once inside, Harpo led her to his master and friend, who was lying face down with a head injury, dead.
Cassie couldn't imagine the man having any enemies, but he must have had at least one. The only suspect so far is Dion Janos, son of Cassie's handyman. As she asks a few questions around town and at the visitation, Cassie makes someone very nervous, sufficiently so that unusual incidents occur. Detective Angela Bonelli, assigned to the case, is willing to hear what Cassie finds as she knows Cassie might hear things the cops would not. George's attorney agreed to allow Cassie to board Harpo until the will is read, but suddenly Harpo becomes valuable to his only two family members. And Cassie becomes a target.
I like Cassie and her dedication to caring for her own cats as well as those who are boarded with her. We learn the most about her, bringing a 3-dimensional woman to the forefront. She hires Sarah, a former high school math teacher as her assistant. While much of her personal past is deflected, there is no doubt she is a willing learner and hard worker. And she becomes a valuable employee and friend. Others that I look forward to getting to know better are Angela Bonelli and local veterinarian Mark Coccia.
The author is adept at putting together scenes in such a way as to increase suspense or keeping the momentum going. This reader was drawn in from the first page and I was sorry to turn the last page. Plot twists introduce new suspects while eliminating others, and crimes behind the murder require the work of the FBI. The ending is nothing short of exciting and very satisfying. I highly recommend this cozy mystery to crazy (or not so crazy) cat lovers everywhere!
August 12, 2017
As a first in a new series, The Persian Always Meows Twice by Eileen Watkins is a purr-fect cozy mystery.
Cassie settles down into small town life with her trip of cats and opening her own cat salon.
Catering to long hair cats is Cassie's calling and having the bonus of a cat only boarding facility adds to the quirkiness of this story.
When one of Cassie's clients falls victim to a violent crime, Cassie wants to do the right thing, providing a safe haven for his cat, Harpo.
Little does she know that her love for animals will put her in the path of the murderer.
Who is out to stop Cassie from asking questions and what happens when she pushes to hard?
This story is well written and flows smoothly. The introduction of characters wasn't overwhelming and I was able to enjoy getting to know everyone.
I look forward to reading the next book in this series.
I voluntarily read an ARC of this book provided by the publisher and NetGalley.
Cassie settles down into small town life with her trip of cats and opening her own cat salon.
Catering to long hair cats is Cassie's calling and having the bonus of a cat only boarding facility adds to the quirkiness of this story.
When one of Cassie's clients falls victim to a violent crime, Cassie wants to do the right thing, providing a safe haven for his cat, Harpo.
Little does she know that her love for animals will put her in the path of the murderer.
Who is out to stop Cassie from asking questions and what happens when she pushes to hard?
This story is well written and flows smoothly. The introduction of characters wasn't overwhelming and I was able to enjoy getting to know everyone.
I look forward to reading the next book in this series.
I voluntarily read an ARC of this book provided by the publisher and NetGalley.
August 26, 2017
Cats and murder - couldn’t be better, right? I’ve been in the mood for cozy mysteries recently because I enjoy the short and sweet action. Also, I do love trying to spotting the killer!
The Persian Always Meows Twice by Eileen Watkins is a classic, with Cassie the heroine running away from a bad relationship and into new romance and business - until her best customer is found dead in his mansion, with his Persian standing there all worried.
I loved the way the author clearly spent some time researching the grooming and cattery business because all the details were perfect. I also enjoyed the solid plot line - and I did the spot the murderer but only at the very last moment, which was deliciously satisfying.
Cassie was a little bit too prissy for me but cosy romance readers do tend to favour that kind of girl so I think it will be a smash hit. Definitely recommended!
I received this book from the publishers through Net Galley and am reviewing voluntarily.
The Persian Always Meows Twice by Eileen Watkins is a classic, with Cassie the heroine running away from a bad relationship and into new romance and business - until her best customer is found dead in his mansion, with his Persian standing there all worried.
I loved the way the author clearly spent some time researching the grooming and cattery business because all the details were perfect. I also enjoyed the solid plot line - and I did the spot the murderer but only at the very last moment, which was deliciously satisfying.
Cassie was a little bit too prissy for me but cosy romance readers do tend to favour that kind of girl so I think it will be a smash hit. Definitely recommended!
I received this book from the publishers through Net Galley and am reviewing voluntarily.
December 14, 2025
Cassie has moved to town not long ago and opened a business as a cat groomer and a boarding facility for cats. She was escaping her abusive ex and didn’t want him to know where she was now living. One of her (wealthy) grooming clients had her come to do the grooming in his home, and when she arrives one day, his cat leads her to his dead body. He’s been murdered. While the police are investigating, Cassie gets permission to house his cat until they can open the will and find out who the cat was left to. Little does she know how much danger this puts her in.
This is the first in a series and I really liked it. The descriptions of the cats and their behaviours was done very well; the author obviously knows cats! I like the supporting characters: Cassie’s friends and her new relationship. I will definitely continue the series.
This is the first in a series and I really liked it. The descriptions of the cats and their behaviours was done very well; the author obviously knows cats! I like the supporting characters: Cassie’s friends and her new relationship. I will definitely continue the series.
November 26, 2017
This was a really fun read, especially over a holiday weekend.. Even if you're not a cat lover, I think you'll enjoy getting to know Cassie the cat groomer and this well-plotted cozy. Already looking forward to the next book in the series!!
July 7, 2020
This is a really good cozy series. I like that Cassie isn't stupid and she works on solving the mystery using her brain instead of relying on dumb luck. There's also a lot of good information about cats. The author either really knows cats or she listened to someone who does. She did kind of give Maine Coons a bad rap, just because they are large cats. Although to be fair, my Maine Coon is almost impossible to groom. I accidentally read the second one first, so now I'm looking forward to reading the third.
September 4, 2018
A cute kick-off to a new series!
December 23, 2020
Cassie McGlone owns Cassie’s Cozy Cats, a thriving business boarding and grooming cats. Most of her customers bring their pets into the shop for their spa day, but Cassie does have one special customer who does not.
George De Leuw is a wealthy, semi-retired gentleman who pays Cassie well to come to his home to groom his Persian cat, Harpo. Harpo’s grooming usually takes place in the afternoon when things at the shop have slowed down.
But today Cassie is extra busy interviewing a potential assistant, and walking her through the procedure of checking in and actually grooming a couple of cats! So then she’s in a rush to get to De Leuw’s to groom Harpo!
When she arrives at the mansion and hops out, she suddenly spies Harpo outside! Where he never should be alone! What is he doing out? She scoops him up and takes him inside where he goes padding to the back, looking for George. Cassie follows, and together they find George’s lifeless body!
What happened to George? Did he fall? Did he have a heart attack? Read The Persian Meows Twice to find out!
♥️✝️🐑✡️♥️
George De Leuw is a wealthy, semi-retired gentleman who pays Cassie well to come to his home to groom his Persian cat, Harpo. Harpo’s grooming usually takes place in the afternoon when things at the shop have slowed down.
But today Cassie is extra busy interviewing a potential assistant, and walking her through the procedure of checking in and actually grooming a couple of cats! So then she’s in a rush to get to De Leuw’s to groom Harpo!
When she arrives at the mansion and hops out, she suddenly spies Harpo outside! Where he never should be alone! What is he doing out? She scoops him up and takes him inside where he goes padding to the back, looking for George. Cassie follows, and together they find George’s lifeless body!
What happened to George? Did he fall? Did he have a heart attack? Read The Persian Meows Twice to find out!
♥️✝️🐑✡️♥️
June 19, 2020
"Let's get you back inside." I carried both my bag and the cat to the front stoop and started to ring the bell, then noticed the door stood a few inches ajar.
Weird...somebody was being very careless, for sure. I pushed the door open and called out, "Hello?"
No answer. Harpo began to fidget, so I steeped inside anyway and put him down. He trotted off, feet padding silently over the marble tiles of the entry hall, and I followed him. With his heightened senses of smell and hearing, he probably would know where to find whoever was at home. Ideally, his master.
I was right about that. The cat passed a couple of open doorways before he veered into what I'd always taken to be the study.
There, we both found George DeLeuw sprawled face-down on the Oriental carpet, a bloody gash across the back of his head.
~~A cat getting groomed at a salon that may or may not be like Cassie McGlone's shop--Cassie's Comfy Cats.
Meet Cassie McGlone. She recently left an emotionally charged relationship that was quickly veering into abusive territory. Ready for a change of pace and location, she decided to buy a dilapidated old building in a small New Jersey town. She works alongside a handy man to renovate the structure into a cat boarding and grooming shop.
Work is slowly picking up as her reputation spreads, but with all the bills to pay she's very excited to land a regular gig grooming the Persian cat of a very rich gentleman. She's so excited, in fact, that she breaks normal rules and agrees to make house calls to care for Harpo. Imagine her shock when, after a few appointments, she arrives to find the cat outside and the front door open (see opening quote). Since this is a cozy mystery, Cassie of course decides to "help" the police solve the murder mystery.
My two cents: Eileen Watkins did exactly what she set out to do--write a fluffy, happy ending cozy mystery that establishes a setting for her series. There's even a love interest for Cassie (the town vet of course). Which is to say that this isn't an awful book, but it isn't *good* either. The prose is simplistic, especially after reading The Ice Soldier, Miss Jane, and Where Women Are Kings recently. The mystery was easy to guess, and I could see the plot twist a mile away. I also felt that Cassie showed almost no caution for someone who *moved to a new town* to avoid a previous relationship. If you are looking for a fluffy, mind-candy vacation read, and love cats, then this isn't a bad grab. Otherwise there are plenty of better fish in the library sea. Given 1 star or a rating of "Bad".
Further Reading: Do cats even need groomed? This article explains all. https://www.catster.com/cat-health-ca...
Weird...somebody was being very careless, for sure. I pushed the door open and called out, "Hello?"
No answer. Harpo began to fidget, so I steeped inside anyway and put him down. He trotted off, feet padding silently over the marble tiles of the entry hall, and I followed him. With his heightened senses of smell and hearing, he probably would know where to find whoever was at home. Ideally, his master.
I was right about that. The cat passed a couple of open doorways before he veered into what I'd always taken to be the study.
There, we both found George DeLeuw sprawled face-down on the Oriental carpet, a bloody gash across the back of his head.
~~A cat getting groomed at a salon that may or may not be like Cassie McGlone's shop--Cassie's Comfy Cats.
Meet Cassie McGlone. She recently left an emotionally charged relationship that was quickly veering into abusive territory. Ready for a change of pace and location, she decided to buy a dilapidated old building in a small New Jersey town. She works alongside a handy man to renovate the structure into a cat boarding and grooming shop.
Work is slowly picking up as her reputation spreads, but with all the bills to pay she's very excited to land a regular gig grooming the Persian cat of a very rich gentleman. She's so excited, in fact, that she breaks normal rules and agrees to make house calls to care for Harpo. Imagine her shock when, after a few appointments, she arrives to find the cat outside and the front door open (see opening quote). Since this is a cozy mystery, Cassie of course decides to "help" the police solve the murder mystery.
My two cents: Eileen Watkins did exactly what she set out to do--write a fluffy, happy ending cozy mystery that establishes a setting for her series. There's even a love interest for Cassie (the town vet of course). Which is to say that this isn't an awful book, but it isn't *good* either. The prose is simplistic, especially after reading The Ice Soldier, Miss Jane, and Where Women Are Kings recently. The mystery was easy to guess, and I could see the plot twist a mile away. I also felt that Cassie showed almost no caution for someone who *moved to a new town* to avoid a previous relationship. If you are looking for a fluffy, mind-candy vacation read, and love cats, then this isn't a bad grab. Otherwise there are plenty of better fish in the library sea. Given 1 star or a rating of "Bad".
Further Reading: Do cats even need groomed? This article explains all. https://www.catster.com/cat-health-ca...
June 14, 2018
You can't judge a book by its cover. Nor can you judge it by its title. The title is clever, but the book itself is very pedestrian. A cookie-cutter plot with nothing original or exciting. If you want something to read just to read, this book will do well.
The worst part about the come-on title is it is not relevant to the story at all. Yes, it involves a Persian cat, but there is nothing significant about any meowing.
The worst part about the come-on title is it is not relevant to the story at all. Yes, it involves a Persian cat, but there is nothing significant about any meowing.
January 8, 2020
This was a fun one. I really liked the main character and her life. I liked how the way she got involved was logical.
October 23, 2017
The Persian Always Meows Twice
1st in A Cat Groomer Mystery Series
Eileen Watkins
The Persian Always Meows Twice is the first in a new series, A Cat Groomer Mystery series. Set in Chadwick, New Jersey in a private two-story home now converted into Cassie’s Comfy Cats and the proprietor, Cassie McGlone, a certified groomer and animal behaviorist, home. Her shop was not just a place to have your cat groomed but also a boarding facility and offered things for an owner to spoil their cat(s). Along with her helper, Sarah Wilcox, Cassie provided the cats brought there with the best of things a cat could desire.
Cassie also provided grooming for an outside client, George DeLeuw’s Persian cat, Harpo. Mr. DeLeuw, known as one of the town’s prestigious citizens. With a professional-quality grooming studio in his home Cassie had no qualms about grooming Harpo there. It was at the weekly appointment that Cassie found Harpo kidding under a bush outside the home, which made her think something must be amiss since Harpo never was allowed outside. When the front door was found to be open, Cassie made her presence known with a simple Hello. With no answer she put Harpo down and Harpo proceeded to head where George, his master, could be found. However, when Harpo led Cassie into the study where she found Mr. DeLeuw facedown with a gash across the back of his head. This was just the beginning of the story.
I found the characters to be believable and the description of Chadwick so inviting I would love to live there. The development of the mystery was laid out well, combining a little romance as well as Cassie’s natural call to help in solving who was responsible of Mr. DeLeuw’s murder and to protect Harpo from the hands of someone who may want him for the wrong reason. I am anxious to see where the next story will lead Cassie.
1st in A Cat Groomer Mystery Series
Eileen Watkins
The Persian Always Meows Twice is the first in a new series, A Cat Groomer Mystery series. Set in Chadwick, New Jersey in a private two-story home now converted into Cassie’s Comfy Cats and the proprietor, Cassie McGlone, a certified groomer and animal behaviorist, home. Her shop was not just a place to have your cat groomed but also a boarding facility and offered things for an owner to spoil their cat(s). Along with her helper, Sarah Wilcox, Cassie provided the cats brought there with the best of things a cat could desire.
Cassie also provided grooming for an outside client, George DeLeuw’s Persian cat, Harpo. Mr. DeLeuw, known as one of the town’s prestigious citizens. With a professional-quality grooming studio in his home Cassie had no qualms about grooming Harpo there. It was at the weekly appointment that Cassie found Harpo kidding under a bush outside the home, which made her think something must be amiss since Harpo never was allowed outside. When the front door was found to be open, Cassie made her presence known with a simple Hello. With no answer she put Harpo down and Harpo proceeded to head where George, his master, could be found. However, when Harpo led Cassie into the study where she found Mr. DeLeuw facedown with a gash across the back of his head. This was just the beginning of the story.
I found the characters to be believable and the description of Chadwick so inviting I would love to live there. The development of the mystery was laid out well, combining a little romance as well as Cassie’s natural call to help in solving who was responsible of Mr. DeLeuw’s murder and to protect Harpo from the hands of someone who may want him for the wrong reason. I am anxious to see where the next story will lead Cassie.
November 3, 2017
Princess Fuzzypants here:
Cassie escapes an abusive relationship and moves to nice quiet Chadwick where she opens a cat grooming and boarding salon. Things are going really well until she finds her richest client murdered in his mansion. His cat Harpo, a sweet Persian, needs someone to care about him and not just see him as a pawn. Cassie is drawn into the investigation with the blessing of the local police who figure she can get the suspects to talk. She not only gets them to talk but she manages to get the murderer to try and remove her- permanently.
Cassie is a great character who grows in confidence as the story evolves. I love her interactions with Harpo, her own cats and the boarders. She is surrounded by a wonderful supporting cast including her assistant and her new beau. There is also an awesome cat named Stormy who turns out to be a hero but I will leave it to the reader to find out how he does it.
I give this five purrs and two paws up and cannot wait for the second book.
Cassie escapes an abusive relationship and moves to nice quiet Chadwick where she opens a cat grooming and boarding salon. Things are going really well until she finds her richest client murdered in his mansion. His cat Harpo, a sweet Persian, needs someone to care about him and not just see him as a pawn. Cassie is drawn into the investigation with the blessing of the local police who figure she can get the suspects to talk. She not only gets them to talk but she manages to get the murderer to try and remove her- permanently.
Cassie is a great character who grows in confidence as the story evolves. I love her interactions with Harpo, her own cats and the boarders. She is surrounded by a wonderful supporting cast including her assistant and her new beau. There is also an awesome cat named Stormy who turns out to be a hero but I will leave it to the reader to find out how he does it.
I give this five purrs and two paws up and cannot wait for the second book.
February 8, 2021
A fun book! Since I am a cat lover, this was the purrfect book for me! The idea of a cat groomer and boarder made for an interesting story and something I had never really thought of before. I enjoyed the fun little cat facts and it was clear that Cassie loved cats and her business. I found the storyline intriguing as I tried to figure out who killed DeLeuw and how his cat, Harpo, seemed to be connected. I am really looking forward to reading more of this series and learning about different cat breeds along the way. Cassie is a strong and determined young woman who may not have a high-paying job, but has a job she loves. I am also looming forward to seeing a relationship develop between Cassie and Dr. Mark, the vet. I highly recommend this series for anyone who loves cats and mysteries!!
September 11, 2022
The orange tabby crouched on my stainless-steel table and hissed like a rattlesnake poised to strike.
Cassie McGlone left an abusive relationship and opened a cat grooming salon in Chadwick, New Jersey. When a house call reveals the body of a wealthy man, Cassie feels the need to help solve his murder.
This is a great debut of the series. Cassie is personable and very knowledgeable about cat grooming. That in itself gets props from me. I really enjoyed learning tidbits of info regarding grooming along with her assistant Sarah.
The mystery is well thought out and unfolds with a few twists and turns. I was concerned about Cassie jumping into the investigation with so little to go on.
The characters interact well with each other. The cats are the stars of the book. I am not usually a big fan of Persians, but Harpo had a great personality.
I enjoyed this enough to look for the next book in the series.
Cassie McGlone left an abusive relationship and opened a cat grooming salon in Chadwick, New Jersey. When a house call reveals the body of a wealthy man, Cassie feels the need to help solve his murder.
This is a great debut of the series. Cassie is personable and very knowledgeable about cat grooming. That in itself gets props from me. I really enjoyed learning tidbits of info regarding grooming along with her assistant Sarah.
The mystery is well thought out and unfolds with a few twists and turns. I was concerned about Cassie jumping into the investigation with so little to go on.
The characters interact well with each other. The cats are the stars of the book. I am not usually a big fan of Persians, but Harpo had a great personality.
I enjoyed this enough to look for the next book in the series.
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