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Cat in the Stacks #14
What the Cat Dragged In
Librarian Charlie Harris and his faithful feline companion, Diesel, have inherited Charlie’s grandfather’s house, along with a deadly legacy: a decades-old crime scene, in this all-new mystery in the New York Times bestselling Cat in the Stacks series.
Charlie has always believed that his grandfather had sold his house to his longtime tenant, Martin Hale. So when Martin dies, Charlie is surprised to discover the house was not left to Martin but instead belongs to Charlie. As he and Diesel check out the house he remembers fondly from his childhood, he is pleasantly surprised that it is in better condition than expected. That is, until they find a literal skeleton in a closet.
While the sheriff’s department investigates the mysterious remains, Charlie digs deeper into the past for clues to the identity of the bones and why they are there. But the cold case heats up quickly when Martin’s grandson is found dead on the farm.
As Charlie delves into his own family history, he encounters many people who might have been motivated to take a life. But Charlie and Diesel know that things are not always what they seem, and that secrets seemingly lost to time have a way of finding their way back to haunt the present.
Charlie has always believed that his grandfather had sold his house to his longtime tenant, Martin Hale. So when Martin dies, Charlie is surprised to discover the house was not left to Martin but instead belongs to Charlie. As he and Diesel check out the house he remembers fondly from his childhood, he is pleasantly surprised that it is in better condition than expected. That is, until they find a literal skeleton in a closet.
While the sheriff’s department investigates the mysterious remains, Charlie digs deeper into the past for clues to the identity of the bones and why they are there. But the cold case heats up quickly when Martin’s grandson is found dead on the farm.
As Charlie delves into his own family history, he encounters many people who might have been motivated to take a life. But Charlie and Diesel know that things are not always what they seem, and that secrets seemingly lost to time have a way of finding their way back to haunt the present.
304 pages, Hardcover
First published August 31, 2021
148 people are currently reading
1140 people want to read
About the author
Miranda James
25 books1,255 followersPen name of Dean James, who also writes as Honor Hartman and Jimmie Ruth Evans
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 305 reviews
September 8, 2021
What the Cat Dragged In is the 14th book in the Cat in the Stacks mystery series written by Miranda James. I've read the series from its beginning, as well as a few of the author's other books too. I enjoy the writing style, the character development, and the elaborate settings. Athena, Mississippi has a multitude of history, and with each new installment, I feel as if I've been on a grand tour of the South already.
Although I usually enjoy the author's books, this one was even stronger for me because it had a complex genealogical puzzle to solve. Charlie, a mid-fifties father to two grown children and two clever cats, learns that he's inherited his grandfather's farm. His grandfather passed away forty years ago, so something seemed strange with the timeline... and of course, Charlie solves the riddle. As he unravels the pieces and learns what happened through the years, he finds an unusual object in the farmhouse and the following day, someone he's just learned about is murdered. What happened all those years ago, and how does it connect to the two men trying to buy the farm from him today?
Weaving in some social stories and a bunch of intriguing history, the tale easily held my interest. Charlie is a borderline curmudgeon, and his kids are definitely handling him well. I like seeing the dynamics change in this family over the last decade. I also loved visiting with the Ducote sisters even if it was a short scene this time. Azalea is becoming one of my favorite characters, and it makes me wonder more about her husband (and Kanesha's father); perhaps there's more to that story in the future. I think we learned some, but you never know. Exciting to see a new book will be released in early/mid 2022, but now I've got at least 8 to 9 months to wait again!
Although I usually enjoy the author's books, this one was even stronger for me because it had a complex genealogical puzzle to solve. Charlie, a mid-fifties father to two grown children and two clever cats, learns that he's inherited his grandfather's farm. His grandfather passed away forty years ago, so something seemed strange with the timeline... and of course, Charlie solves the riddle. As he unravels the pieces and learns what happened through the years, he finds an unusual object in the farmhouse and the following day, someone he's just learned about is murdered. What happened all those years ago, and how does it connect to the two men trying to buy the farm from him today?
Weaving in some social stories and a bunch of intriguing history, the tale easily held my interest. Charlie is a borderline curmudgeon, and his kids are definitely handling him well. I like seeing the dynamics change in this family over the last decade. I also loved visiting with the Ducote sisters even if it was a short scene this time. Azalea is becoming one of my favorite characters, and it makes me wonder more about her husband (and Kanesha's father); perhaps there's more to that story in the future. I think we learned some, but you never know. Exciting to see a new book will be released in early/mid 2022, but now I've got at least 8 to 9 months to wait again!
July 15, 2024
Another delightful book in my favorite cozy mystery series. I loved the family history delve, and am excited to find out the plans for the new farmhouse, though I have a sneaking suspicion.
September 1, 2021
Charlie Harris has gotten some surprising news – he’s just inherited his grandfather’s house. He thought the home had left the family decades ago, but it turns out it was just under a life lease, and that tenant has just died. Charlie’s grandparents died when he was young, but he still has some fond memories of time spent out there. When he and Diesel are out there exploring the house, Diesel discovers a skeleton in the attic. It is clear that the body was dug up and placed there. Suddenly, Charlie is left wondering what this skeleton says about his family’s past. He can’t help but dig more, especially when a modern body also turns up on the property he’s just inherited. What will he find?
Because I love Charlie, this mystery from Charlie’s family’s past is intriguing. I was pulled in early. Ultimately, I did feel the ending was a bit abrupt and a few details of the story should have been worked into the plot better, but I did enjoy it. Over the last few books, I’ve noticed the insertion of small moments that come across more as lectures than anything else, and that trend continued here. I almost always agree with Charlie, but they bother me because they feel forced into the story. These really are nitpicks, and I enjoyed the book overall, mainly because of the characters. All our favorite two and four legged characters are back, and it is great spending time with them as always. Fans will feel like reading this book is a warm hug.
NOTE: I received an ARC of this book.
Read my full review at Carstairs Considers.
Because I love Charlie, this mystery from Charlie’s family’s past is intriguing. I was pulled in early. Ultimately, I did feel the ending was a bit abrupt and a few details of the story should have been worked into the plot better, but I did enjoy it. Over the last few books, I’ve noticed the insertion of small moments that come across more as lectures than anything else, and that trend continued here. I almost always agree with Charlie, but they bother me because they feel forced into the story. These really are nitpicks, and I enjoyed the book overall, mainly because of the characters. All our favorite two and four legged characters are back, and it is great spending time with them as always. Fans will feel like reading this book is a warm hug.
NOTE: I received an ARC of this book.
Read my full review at Carstairs Considers.
October 10, 2021
What the Cat Dragged In (Cat in the Stacks #14) by Miranda James.
This is being included under my favorites for the following reasons: The story brings in another environment for the Harris family and others. The farmland and house left to Charlie comes as quite a surprise. It's set away from the town of Athena in the countryside and the usual routine of Charlie's at the public library. This new development may be an opening for future stories in this series and I look forward to that. It also added a new family member another surprise.
Charlie is informed that a farmhouse has been left to him as well as the surrounding acres of land. In the past Charlie had believed the current owner (?) would remain there. That owner(?) has since died and had never owned the farmhouse to being with.
Sean, Charlie's son, takes on the case at hand as his Dad's lawyer. Charlie decides to take a look around the old farmhouse that his great granddad had built for his wife. So along with Diesel he begins to uncover his roots at a place he hasn't entered since a small child. That's when the mystery begins.
I totally enjoyed this story and highly recommend it. The family atmosphere couldn't be better.
This is being included under my favorites for the following reasons: The story brings in another environment for the Harris family and others. The farmland and house left to Charlie comes as quite a surprise. It's set away from the town of Athena in the countryside and the usual routine of Charlie's at the public library. This new development may be an opening for future stories in this series and I look forward to that. It also added a new family member another surprise.
Charlie is informed that a farmhouse has been left to him as well as the surrounding acres of land. In the past Charlie had believed the current owner (?) would remain there. That owner(?) has since died and had never owned the farmhouse to being with.
Sean, Charlie's son, takes on the case at hand as his Dad's lawyer. Charlie decides to take a look around the old farmhouse that his great granddad had built for his wife. So along with Diesel he begins to uncover his roots at a place he hasn't entered since a small child. That's when the mystery begins.
I totally enjoyed this story and highly recommend it. The family atmosphere couldn't be better.
October 6, 2021
This book is the fourteenth in the series.
This was a fast-paced read for me, a smooth read that kept me engaged through out it.
I must admit my favorite character was the majestic Maine Coon cat. He's a big boy that commands everyone's attention.
We are met with surprising twists and turns throughout the book, from an unexpected inheritance to a shocking find the cat makes in a closet which gets the whole ball of yarn rolling.
I have to say this rates up there as one of my favorite cozy mysteries!
#WhattheCatDraggedIn #NetGalley.
Pub Date: 31 Aug 2021
I was given a complimentary copy of this book. Thank you.
All opinions expressed are my own.
This was a fast-paced read for me, a smooth read that kept me engaged through out it.
I must admit my favorite character was the majestic Maine Coon cat. He's a big boy that commands everyone's attention.
We are met with surprising twists and turns throughout the book, from an unexpected inheritance to a shocking find the cat makes in a closet which gets the whole ball of yarn rolling.
I have to say this rates up there as one of my favorite cozy mysteries!
#WhattheCatDraggedIn #NetGalley.
Pub Date: 31 Aug 2021
I was given a complimentary copy of this book. Thank you.
All opinions expressed are my own.
August 28, 2021
Charlie Harris and Diesel—Ramses too—are back and they have quite a conundrum. Charlie learns that he has inherited his paternal grandfather’s farmhouse and land. He is inspecting the attic with Diesel when he hears a thud and sees a skull. Diesel has discovered a skeleton in a wardrobe with dirt clinging to it. Charlie can imagine what Kanesha Berry will say. While the deputies do their work, a storm hits the area downing trees. Deputies find Martin Hale’s grandson, the man who had leased the farmhouse, dead under one of those trees. Unfortunately, the tree is not what killed the man. Charlie has his work cut out for him with this curious case. What the Cat Dragged In by Miranda James is the 14th A Cat in the Stacks Mystery. It can be read as a standalone if you are new to the series. Personally, I have loved reading this charming series from the beginning. What the Cat Dragged In is well-written with developed characters. Charlie Harris is a great character. He is friendly, smart, caring, and a good family man. He is rarely seen without his sidekick, Diesel (a Maine Coon cat). I just love Diesel who acts like a person. He has a darling personality and I love his chirps. Ramses, of course, is a busy kitten. He is getting bigger and more rambunctious. All of the other characters that we love are back as well such as Sean, Laura, Azalea, Stewart, Haskell, Miss An’gel, and, of course, Little Charlie. The mystery was complex and unique. I like that there is a cold case and a current case. There investigation into the skeleton is more interesting than the present day one. Charlie must delve into the past to unravel this one. We get to learn more about the Harris family. The modern murder I found a cinch to solve. There were some fun aspects to this case, and I just loved the reveal. I enjoy every visit with Charlie and Diesel, and this was no exception. Great characters, a fun whodunit, Southern charm, and humor in one engaging cozy mystery. I am eager to read Hiss Me Deadly next spring. What the Cat Dragged In is an engaging tale with a chirping cat, a surprising skeleton, an unanticipated inheritance, a thundering storm, a mystery murder, and historical revelations.
August 15, 2023
This is my favourite of the series so far. For once he actually led me down the wrong path instead of me feeling like it was quite evident early on.
I accidentally got my copy of this before the publishing date, so I won't write a proper review at this time.
I accidentally got my copy of this before the publishing date, so I won't write a proper review at this time.
November 26, 2023
What the Cat Dragged In is book 14 in the Cat in the Stacks series by Miranda James. On the death of Martin Hale, Charlie received news that he did not expect that he still owned the family farm. Charlie always believed that his grandfather's longtime tenant bought the farm. On visiting the farm to check it out, Charlie finds a skeleton. Charlie decides to investigate his family history, especially after Martin's grandson is found dead on the property. What the Cat Dragged In readers will continue to follow Charlie to discover what happens.
What The Cat Dragged In is another fantastic addition to this excellent cozy series by Miranda James. Soon, I started reading books in this series, and I always laughed at how Miranda James portrayed Diesel and his interaction with other characters. I do love Miranda James's portrayal of her characters and their interactions with each other throughout this book. What The Cat Dragged In is well-written and researched by Miranda James. I like Miranda James's description of the settings of What The Cat Dragged In, which allowed me to imagine being part of the book's plot.
The readers of What The Cat Dragged In will understand about cousins and the meaning of once removed. Also, the readers of What The Car Dragged In will learn about researching your family history.
I recommend this book.
What The Cat Dragged In is another fantastic addition to this excellent cozy series by Miranda James. Soon, I started reading books in this series, and I always laughed at how Miranda James portrayed Diesel and his interaction with other characters. I do love Miranda James's portrayal of her characters and their interactions with each other throughout this book. What The Cat Dragged In is well-written and researched by Miranda James. I like Miranda James's description of the settings of What The Cat Dragged In, which allowed me to imagine being part of the book's plot.
The readers of What The Cat Dragged In will understand about cousins and the meaning of once removed. Also, the readers of What The Car Dragged In will learn about researching your family history.
I recommend this book.
September 11, 2021
Dollycas’s Thoughts
In this latest Cats in the Stacks Mystery Charlie gets a big surprise. He inherits the family farmhouse outside of town. He had always thought his grandfather had sold the property but instead he gave the tenant Martin Hale, a lifelong lease. When Mr. Hale passed away the property reverted back to the Harris family, Charlie. His son Sean, a lawyer, is helping him wade through all the paperwork and necessary actions. Not having been in the house in years Charlie is anxious to take a tour of the place with Diesel by his side. The place will need a little work but is in better shape than he expected. While checking out the attic, Diesel makes a scary discovery . . . a human skeleton in an old wardrobe. This puts any plans for the place on hold.
Charlie reports Diesel’s find to the sheriff’s office who calls in a specialist to try to identify the skeleton. Charlie realizes he doesn’t know or remember much about his family history so he takes the opportunity to investigate his family tree. He may even be able to identify the remains before the sheriff.
A huge storm moves through the area leaving downed trees at the family homestead and a body is found under a downed limb. It is quickly identified to be Hale’s grandson who thought he would be inheriting the property. When the limb is removed evidence shows the man was killed before the storm and it wasn’t any accident. The investigation into the skeleton turns into a current murder investigation and Charlie uncovers many reasons for the death and many other secrets as well.
I loved this story. Charlie’s deep dive into his family’s history drew my interest. I have a niece that has been researching our family history, something I have wanted to do for years but haven’t been able to do. I realized too late that I should have sat down with my mother who had vast knowledge of our family on both her and my father’s sides and his was very complicated. She would always know how everyone fit together and had wonderful stories that I should have listened to more carefully. When she passed away much of that knowledge passed away with her, knowledge I would have loved to pass on to my children and grandchildren. So you see, I was very excited to see Charlie take on this project. Keeping track of a family’s history is so important.
The mysteries Charlie was entangled in, the murder, and the skeleton were just a jumping-off point. There was another case the Athena Sheriff’s Office had been trying to solve that was really unknown to Charlie that he was able to solve as part of a terrifying incident at the end of the story. It was totally off his radar as he struggled with decisions about his family homestead and the deaths that had occurred.
I really enjoyed the author’s description of the Harris Family Homestead. I know the layout of Charlie’s current home, Helen Louise’s Bistro, (she is on a girls getaway with her friends during this story), the college, his office, and the layout of the small town of Athena quite well after the 13 previous books in this series. She gives good concise details of this new to us property and I was able to follow along through each room and even into the neighboring woods.
Ms. James plotted such an excellent story with intrigue, secrets, drama, and action while allowing us to catch up on the regular daily news with Charlie, his family, his tenants, Melba, Kanesha, Azalea, plus Ramses and Diesel too. All of these characters are charming in their own ways and while I know there is going to be a stellar mystery or two in each book it is those characters that bring me back for each new installment of this wonderful series.
What the Cat Dragged In is now my favorite book in this series. It has everything I look for in a cozy mystery and more.
You will find What the Cat Dragged In on my Best Reads of 2021 list because in my opinion it deserves more than 5 stars and receives my Paradise Rating.
In this latest Cats in the Stacks Mystery Charlie gets a big surprise. He inherits the family farmhouse outside of town. He had always thought his grandfather had sold the property but instead he gave the tenant Martin Hale, a lifelong lease. When Mr. Hale passed away the property reverted back to the Harris family, Charlie. His son Sean, a lawyer, is helping him wade through all the paperwork and necessary actions. Not having been in the house in years Charlie is anxious to take a tour of the place with Diesel by his side. The place will need a little work but is in better shape than he expected. While checking out the attic, Diesel makes a scary discovery . . . a human skeleton in an old wardrobe. This puts any plans for the place on hold.
Charlie reports Diesel’s find to the sheriff’s office who calls in a specialist to try to identify the skeleton. Charlie realizes he doesn’t know or remember much about his family history so he takes the opportunity to investigate his family tree. He may even be able to identify the remains before the sheriff.
A huge storm moves through the area leaving downed trees at the family homestead and a body is found under a downed limb. It is quickly identified to be Hale’s grandson who thought he would be inheriting the property. When the limb is removed evidence shows the man was killed before the storm and it wasn’t any accident. The investigation into the skeleton turns into a current murder investigation and Charlie uncovers many reasons for the death and many other secrets as well.
I loved this story. Charlie’s deep dive into his family’s history drew my interest. I have a niece that has been researching our family history, something I have wanted to do for years but haven’t been able to do. I realized too late that I should have sat down with my mother who had vast knowledge of our family on both her and my father’s sides and his was very complicated. She would always know how everyone fit together and had wonderful stories that I should have listened to more carefully. When she passed away much of that knowledge passed away with her, knowledge I would have loved to pass on to my children and grandchildren. So you see, I was very excited to see Charlie take on this project. Keeping track of a family’s history is so important.
The mysteries Charlie was entangled in, the murder, and the skeleton were just a jumping-off point. There was another case the Athena Sheriff’s Office had been trying to solve that was really unknown to Charlie that he was able to solve as part of a terrifying incident at the end of the story. It was totally off his radar as he struggled with decisions about his family homestead and the deaths that had occurred.
I really enjoyed the author’s description of the Harris Family Homestead. I know the layout of Charlie’s current home, Helen Louise’s Bistro, (she is on a girls getaway with her friends during this story), the college, his office, and the layout of the small town of Athena quite well after the 13 previous books in this series. She gives good concise details of this new to us property and I was able to follow along through each room and even into the neighboring woods.
Ms. James plotted such an excellent story with intrigue, secrets, drama, and action while allowing us to catch up on the regular daily news with Charlie, his family, his tenants, Melba, Kanesha, Azalea, plus Ramses and Diesel too. All of these characters are charming in their own ways and while I know there is going to be a stellar mystery or two in each book it is those characters that bring me back for each new installment of this wonderful series.
What the Cat Dragged In is now my favorite book in this series. It has everything I look for in a cozy mystery and more.
You will find What the Cat Dragged In on my Best Reads of 2021 list because in my opinion it deserves more than 5 stars and receives my Paradise Rating.
August 8, 2021
There are bones in this story, literally, and Charlie and his cat Diesel are determined to find out who they belonged to. The newest addition to the “Cat in the Stacks Mystery” series, What the Cat Dragged In has our favorite cat and his delightful owner digging into the past and coming up with some skeletons in more than one closet.
Charlie is one of those characters that make us all wish we had a dad or grandfather that was half as entertaining; add his excellent cat companion, and it’s a combination made in cozy lover heaven. Other characters such as Charlie’s son Sean and daughter, as well as his fiance and co-workers, make this series one of the most thrilling being written today. There may not be much physical activity, but make no bones about it, these books are never short of hair-raising suspense that keeps readers riveted to their seats.
Charlie inherits his old family home unexpectedly, after having thought it had been sold many years ago. He and his cat, Diesel, go to inspect the old place. Diesel stumbles onto some old bones in a wardrobe in the attic. The skeleton looks old and as if they had been there a long time, but no one seems to know how they got there or who put them in the attic. The police investigation has just started when a fresh body is found on the property. After a lot of hard work, time-consuming research, and a bit of luck, the bones are identified. But it takes a little longer to catch a killer.
What the Cat Dragged In is everything readers have come to expect from this series and more. We get introduced to a batch of suspects that are original and believable and a few motives that harbor on the fantastical and yet strangely realistic. In addition, there are a couple of unexpected twists that will delight readers. Charlie and Diesel accidentally encounter the killer and the motive, and almost find themselves up to their eyeballs in cat doo doo. Old bones are one thing, but Charlie doesn’t want to add an all-new set to the family history. With help from an unexpected source, and a new family member, Charlie and Diesel are saved, the killer caught, and an incredible ending is obtained.
At the end of the day, this book is a wonderful fast read with engaging characters, family hopes and dreams, and friendships built to last. A cat, two actually, keep things light, and Charlie puts the intelligence in the who-done-it. You can’t go wrong on a story when you have such strong characters with storylines, cats, old mysterious bones, and a few mishaps that make readers smile as they turn each page. I am thrilled to recommend this book along with the entire series to readers of all genres.
Charlie is one of those characters that make us all wish we had a dad or grandfather that was half as entertaining; add his excellent cat companion, and it’s a combination made in cozy lover heaven. Other characters such as Charlie’s son Sean and daughter, as well as his fiance and co-workers, make this series one of the most thrilling being written today. There may not be much physical activity, but make no bones about it, these books are never short of hair-raising suspense that keeps readers riveted to their seats.
Charlie inherits his old family home unexpectedly, after having thought it had been sold many years ago. He and his cat, Diesel, go to inspect the old place. Diesel stumbles onto some old bones in a wardrobe in the attic. The skeleton looks old and as if they had been there a long time, but no one seems to know how they got there or who put them in the attic. The police investigation has just started when a fresh body is found on the property. After a lot of hard work, time-consuming research, and a bit of luck, the bones are identified. But it takes a little longer to catch a killer.
What the Cat Dragged In is everything readers have come to expect from this series and more. We get introduced to a batch of suspects that are original and believable and a few motives that harbor on the fantastical and yet strangely realistic. In addition, there are a couple of unexpected twists that will delight readers. Charlie and Diesel accidentally encounter the killer and the motive, and almost find themselves up to their eyeballs in cat doo doo. Old bones are one thing, but Charlie doesn’t want to add an all-new set to the family history. With help from an unexpected source, and a new family member, Charlie and Diesel are saved, the killer caught, and an incredible ending is obtained.
At the end of the day, this book is a wonderful fast read with engaging characters, family hopes and dreams, and friendships built to last. A cat, two actually, keep things light, and Charlie puts the intelligence in the who-done-it. You can’t go wrong on a story when you have such strong characters with storylines, cats, old mysterious bones, and a few mishaps that make readers smile as they turn each page. I am thrilled to recommend this book along with the entire series to readers of all genres.
July 31, 2021
Or 3.5 stars. I really enjoy this series.
September 14, 2021
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Brought to you by OBS Reviewer Jeanie
Getting to read a new Cat in the Stacks mystery is like having ice cream instead of the veggies! Visiting Charlie, Diesel, and Ramses is as satisfying as going to an old friend’s home. Yes, it is one of my favorite series! Charlie is one of the kindest men in cozy mysteries. Between him, his Maine Coon cat, Diesel, and help from friends who are lifelong residents of Athena, Mississippi, there are few mysteries they cannot solve. I enjoyed seeing Ramses, the rambunctious orange tabby kitten again! I also enjoy looking up words I am unfamiliar with.
Charlie, a middle-aged widower, inherited the home he lives in from his Aunt Dottie. He had worked long enough in Houston to have a nice pension, so he returned home to Athena to live. He and Diesel are very well known around town, as one rarely sees Charlie without Diesel. Diesel loves car rides, walks, and going anywhere his human does, including to his part-time job at the college.
Sean, Charlie’s son and attorney, told Charlie that he inherited his grandparents’ home, which he thought was sold long ago. He was young when they passed, so he was unaware that his grandfather leased the home and farmland, which had been in the family since pre-Civil War years, to a man who used to work for him. Martin Hale rented it for the grand sum of $50 a month and paying the property taxes. In turn, Martin leased most of the farmland to two nearby farmers. Per the terms of the will, the property reverts to the possession of his grandparents’ heir when Hale passes, so Charlie is now the owner of a vast property that several people are interested in.
Mr. Hale died at his family’s place in California, and his grandson, under the impression he owned the property, came to sell it. When Charlie learned it was his, he and Diesel went to see it. Diesel went exploring and found a skull outside of a wardrobe in the attic. Charlie went to look at it, and in the wardrobe, found a pile of bones. Real, human bones and a real, human skull.
In the meantime, Martin’s grandson Marty is telling people that Charlie is trying to steal the property from him and has been in touch with a real estate developer. Before Charlie could meet Marty, he was found murdered at the edge of the property. Charlie has helped solve several murders since returning to Athena, but Kanesha, the chief deputy, always makes it clear she doesn’t require his help. This is now Charlie’s property, and he is curious about who the bones belong to and who put them in the attic, so it is hard to let the sheriff’s office take charge of it.
My favorite characters, of course, are Charlie and Diesel. There is always something new and fun to learn about them. Each person is very well-defined and for the newcomer to the series, and there is sufficient information for every reader to be familiar with everyone. The author knows cats very well, as evidenced by the unique purr-sonalities of Diesel and Ramses, especially traits typical to Diesel’s breed. I appreciate the cat care and/ or feeding facts that might be added in.
The mystery is complex and difficult to solve. One of Charlie’s concerns is making sure that his grandfather’s name is kept clear from any accusations of being associated with the set of bones. There were three potential victims, wives who disappeared after Hale began to lease the property, which multiply the suspects. I am very impressed with how the author planned and executed this meaty mystery and was unable to solve it, had not even anticipated some of the surprises at the end! I highly recommend this mystery and series; for cat- and book-loving readers, this is a fabulous find!
Brought to you by OBS Reviewer Jeanie
Getting to read a new Cat in the Stacks mystery is like having ice cream instead of the veggies! Visiting Charlie, Diesel, and Ramses is as satisfying as going to an old friend’s home. Yes, it is one of my favorite series! Charlie is one of the kindest men in cozy mysteries. Between him, his Maine Coon cat, Diesel, and help from friends who are lifelong residents of Athena, Mississippi, there are few mysteries they cannot solve. I enjoyed seeing Ramses, the rambunctious orange tabby kitten again! I also enjoy looking up words I am unfamiliar with.
Charlie, a middle-aged widower, inherited the home he lives in from his Aunt Dottie. He had worked long enough in Houston to have a nice pension, so he returned home to Athena to live. He and Diesel are very well known around town, as one rarely sees Charlie without Diesel. Diesel loves car rides, walks, and going anywhere his human does, including to his part-time job at the college.
Sean, Charlie’s son and attorney, told Charlie that he inherited his grandparents’ home, which he thought was sold long ago. He was young when they passed, so he was unaware that his grandfather leased the home and farmland, which had been in the family since pre-Civil War years, to a man who used to work for him. Martin Hale rented it for the grand sum of $50 a month and paying the property taxes. In turn, Martin leased most of the farmland to two nearby farmers. Per the terms of the will, the property reverts to the possession of his grandparents’ heir when Hale passes, so Charlie is now the owner of a vast property that several people are interested in.
Mr. Hale died at his family’s place in California, and his grandson, under the impression he owned the property, came to sell it. When Charlie learned it was his, he and Diesel went to see it. Diesel went exploring and found a skull outside of a wardrobe in the attic. Charlie went to look at it, and in the wardrobe, found a pile of bones. Real, human bones and a real, human skull.
In the meantime, Martin’s grandson Marty is telling people that Charlie is trying to steal the property from him and has been in touch with a real estate developer. Before Charlie could meet Marty, he was found murdered at the edge of the property. Charlie has helped solve several murders since returning to Athena, but Kanesha, the chief deputy, always makes it clear she doesn’t require his help. This is now Charlie’s property, and he is curious about who the bones belong to and who put them in the attic, so it is hard to let the sheriff’s office take charge of it.
My favorite characters, of course, are Charlie and Diesel. There is always something new and fun to learn about them. Each person is very well-defined and for the newcomer to the series, and there is sufficient information for every reader to be familiar with everyone. The author knows cats very well, as evidenced by the unique purr-sonalities of Diesel and Ramses, especially traits typical to Diesel’s breed. I appreciate the cat care and/ or feeding facts that might be added in.
The mystery is complex and difficult to solve. One of Charlie’s concerns is making sure that his grandfather’s name is kept clear from any accusations of being associated with the set of bones. There were three potential victims, wives who disappeared after Hale began to lease the property, which multiply the suspects. I am very impressed with how the author planned and executed this meaty mystery and was unable to solve it, had not even anticipated some of the surprises at the end! I highly recommend this mystery and series; for cat- and book-loving readers, this is a fabulous find!
October 14, 2021
Charlie has inherited his grandfathers farm house and he and Diesel find a skeleton and so the mystery begins. I really love this series, the characters, Charlie, Diesel, Charlies family and his friends, and with this story they find a new cousin. Very delightful plot and the story moves right along.
October 17, 2021
I'm a fan of librarian Charlie, his family & friends, and his cat Diesel! An excellent cozy mystery. So fun to find a new series to enjoy.
August 7, 2021
Originally published at Reading Reality
This book has been calling my name, loudly, with increasingly more high-pitched meows, until I finally just gave in and read it. The series features a 50-something librarian with the last name of Harris and his now two feline companions – one of whom is pictured on the cover of every book in the series. How could I possibly resist?
Librarian Charlie Harris has a tendency to get himself involved in investigating local murders, no matter how much Detective Kanesha Berry really, really wishes he could manage to keep his much too inquisitive nose out of police business.
But this time Charlie’s involvement is kind of baked in, along with his own investigation into a surprising number of skeletons in his own family’s closet. Secrets that have been buried for not just years but decades, stuff that Charlie never knew about and now wishes he had learned at his grandparents’ knees back when those knees were still available.
Charlie begins the story surprised to inherit his grandfather’s house and farm outside of town. He thought that the property had been sold long ago, and it’s only upon the death of the man who turns out to have been a life tenant and not the owner that Charlie learns that he’s just inherited another house.
What he discovers, or rather what his Maine Coon cat Diesel discovers when they visit the new/old property, is that Charlie has inherited a literal skeleton as well. Diesel finds a cache of human bones in the attic. Nobody is pleased at this development, least of all Detective Berry.
The discovery of those bones opens up, not just one proverbial can of worms, but can after can after can. Especially when another dead body is found on the property – this one considerably more recent and very nearly as puzzling.
Charlie, who can’t resist any sort of puzzle especially once he’s in it, is caught between multiple mysteries. Those bones might be old enough to be laid at his grandparents’ feet – although the revelation that the body in question has neither feet nor hands just adds to the macabre feel of the whole mess. The new body has something to do with a secret that his grandfather kept long ago and Charlie’s dive into the family tree turns up secrets left, right, center and on the wrong side of the blanket.
While Detective Berry has her hands full with the recent killing, it turns out to be up to Charlie to uncover the identity of not just the old bones but how they came to be in the attic. And when the new case intersects with the old, the answer very nearly adds Charlie’s bones – along with Diesel’s – to the family skeleton pile.
Escape Rating A-: This series is always a comfort read for me. It helps that librarian Charlie Harris, besides sharing a last name, also feels like “one of us” librarians, probably because his author is a real-life librarian. He has the kind of job, or at least the kind of work environment, that many of us wish we had in real life. He’s inherited enough money that he does not have to worry about the librarian’s lament, that “librarians get paid weekly, very weakly.” And of course there are the charms of Charlie’s two cats, the large, in charge and quite well-behaved cat-about-town Diesel, and the rambunctious just-barely-out-of-kittenhood Ramses.
Ramses reminds me a lot of our George, except that our cats are not tempted by “people food” and they don’t beg for any. They’re more interested in the plastic wrappers that some of our food comes in. But I digress.
In this entry in the series, I discovered that the case that Charlie was investigating was way more interesting than the one that Kanesha Berry was dealing with – in spite of the two cases intersecting at the end. At very nearly Charlie and Diesel’s end.
But Charlie’s half of the investigation was wrapped up in family secrets. All the stuff you think you know about your family that turns out to be not what you thought it was. Like discovering, at my grandfather’s funeral, that he was married before he married my grandmother, and that my dad’s sisters were actually his half sisters – if they were related at all. Which they might not have been. Apparently grandpa’s first wife played around, which was why he divorced her. I didn’t find out until I was in college, but it explained so much about the way my grandma treated me as a child. I was her only grandchild, after all.
That’s the kind of secret that Charlie discovers when he starts looking into his own family history. He remembers visiting his grandparents when he was a child in the house he’s just inherited. His dad and his aunt both said granddad had sold it, but clearly he didn’t. What Charlie digs into uncovers a whole bunch of fascinating family secrets that you’d – and he’d – think wouldn’t have much bearing on the present. But they do, otherwise his search wouldn’t be such a big part of the story.
I really liked following the progress, and the two steps forward one step back, nature of his search. The result was a surprise, especially to Charlie, but his reaction was all the more heartwarming because of it.
This series as a whole is very cozy. It’s a small-town, Charlie is one of those accidental amateur detectives who can’t seem to stop stumbling over murders. His friends and family are a big part of the background action and serve as his support team, cheering squad and occasionally attempt to warn him off to no avail. Relationships in town are complicated, everyone knows everyone and knows everyone’s secrets – or at least thinks they do.
And the cats are adorable. Still realistically cats and not super-felinely able, but absolutely adorable. I’d read this series just for Diesel, and sometimes I have. But I like all the characters, I find Charlie’s life and investigations soothing – in spite of the times he nearly becomes part of his own case – and I’ll sign up for another whenever the next one comes out, which looks like it’s going to be Hiss Me Deadly, hopefully next March!
In the meantime, the next time I’m looking for a fix of Athena Mississippi I’ll have to go back to the author’s Southern Ladies Mystery series. They’re a hoot!
This book has been calling my name, loudly, with increasingly more high-pitched meows, until I finally just gave in and read it. The series features a 50-something librarian with the last name of Harris and his now two feline companions – one of whom is pictured on the cover of every book in the series. How could I possibly resist?
Librarian Charlie Harris has a tendency to get himself involved in investigating local murders, no matter how much Detective Kanesha Berry really, really wishes he could manage to keep his much too inquisitive nose out of police business.
But this time Charlie’s involvement is kind of baked in, along with his own investigation into a surprising number of skeletons in his own family’s closet. Secrets that have been buried for not just years but decades, stuff that Charlie never knew about and now wishes he had learned at his grandparents’ knees back when those knees were still available.
Charlie begins the story surprised to inherit his grandfather’s house and farm outside of town. He thought that the property had been sold long ago, and it’s only upon the death of the man who turns out to have been a life tenant and not the owner that Charlie learns that he’s just inherited another house.
What he discovers, or rather what his Maine Coon cat Diesel discovers when they visit the new/old property, is that Charlie has inherited a literal skeleton as well. Diesel finds a cache of human bones in the attic. Nobody is pleased at this development, least of all Detective Berry.
The discovery of those bones opens up, not just one proverbial can of worms, but can after can after can. Especially when another dead body is found on the property – this one considerably more recent and very nearly as puzzling.
Charlie, who can’t resist any sort of puzzle especially once he’s in it, is caught between multiple mysteries. Those bones might be old enough to be laid at his grandparents’ feet – although the revelation that the body in question has neither feet nor hands just adds to the macabre feel of the whole mess. The new body has something to do with a secret that his grandfather kept long ago and Charlie’s dive into the family tree turns up secrets left, right, center and on the wrong side of the blanket.
While Detective Berry has her hands full with the recent killing, it turns out to be up to Charlie to uncover the identity of not just the old bones but how they came to be in the attic. And when the new case intersects with the old, the answer very nearly adds Charlie’s bones – along with Diesel’s – to the family skeleton pile.
Escape Rating A-: This series is always a comfort read for me. It helps that librarian Charlie Harris, besides sharing a last name, also feels like “one of us” librarians, probably because his author is a real-life librarian. He has the kind of job, or at least the kind of work environment, that many of us wish we had in real life. He’s inherited enough money that he does not have to worry about the librarian’s lament, that “librarians get paid weekly, very weakly.” And of course there are the charms of Charlie’s two cats, the large, in charge and quite well-behaved cat-about-town Diesel, and the rambunctious just-barely-out-of-kittenhood Ramses.
Ramses reminds me a lot of our George, except that our cats are not tempted by “people food” and they don’t beg for any. They’re more interested in the plastic wrappers that some of our food comes in. But I digress.
In this entry in the series, I discovered that the case that Charlie was investigating was way more interesting than the one that Kanesha Berry was dealing with – in spite of the two cases intersecting at the end. At very nearly Charlie and Diesel’s end.
But Charlie’s half of the investigation was wrapped up in family secrets. All the stuff you think you know about your family that turns out to be not what you thought it was. Like discovering, at my grandfather’s funeral, that he was married before he married my grandmother, and that my dad’s sisters were actually his half sisters – if they were related at all. Which they might not have been. Apparently grandpa’s first wife played around, which was why he divorced her. I didn’t find out until I was in college, but it explained so much about the way my grandma treated me as a child. I was her only grandchild, after all.
That’s the kind of secret that Charlie discovers when he starts looking into his own family history. He remembers visiting his grandparents when he was a child in the house he’s just inherited. His dad and his aunt both said granddad had sold it, but clearly he didn’t. What Charlie digs into uncovers a whole bunch of fascinating family secrets that you’d – and he’d – think wouldn’t have much bearing on the present. But they do, otherwise his search wouldn’t be such a big part of the story.
I really liked following the progress, and the two steps forward one step back, nature of his search. The result was a surprise, especially to Charlie, but his reaction was all the more heartwarming because of it.
This series as a whole is very cozy. It’s a small-town, Charlie is one of those accidental amateur detectives who can’t seem to stop stumbling over murders. His friends and family are a big part of the background action and serve as his support team, cheering squad and occasionally attempt to warn him off to no avail. Relationships in town are complicated, everyone knows everyone and knows everyone’s secrets – or at least thinks they do.
And the cats are adorable. Still realistically cats and not super-felinely able, but absolutely adorable. I’d read this series just for Diesel, and sometimes I have. But I like all the characters, I find Charlie’s life and investigations soothing – in spite of the times he nearly becomes part of his own case – and I’ll sign up for another whenever the next one comes out, which looks like it’s going to be Hiss Me Deadly, hopefully next March!
In the meantime, the next time I’m looking for a fix of Athena Mississippi I’ll have to go back to the author’s Southern Ladies Mystery series. They’re a hoot!
April 19, 2025
It's been a while since I read the previous book in this series, so this was a fun return to Athena, Mississippi, and a visit with Charlie, Diesel, Ramses and the rest. Despite Charlie's determination to leave the murder-solving to Kanesha and her officers, he gets drawn into another murder when a body is found on property he has just inherited.
Charlie didn't know much about the victim, but a lot of people in town did, and soon the list of possible suspects grew rather long. I suspected one character almost from the start, and it took a while to confirm, but my suspicion was correct. The motive was close to what I suspected, as well.
At the moment, there are only two books left in this series that I haven't read, but I'm hopeful that more books will follow. I'm not ready to say goodbye to Diesel and Charlie just yet!
Charlie didn't know much about the victim, but a lot of people in town did, and soon the list of possible suspects grew rather long. I suspected one character almost from the start, and it took a while to confirm, but my suspicion was correct. The motive was close to what I suspected, as well.
At the moment, there are only two books left in this series that I haven't read, but I'm hopeful that more books will follow. I'm not ready to say goodbye to Diesel and Charlie just yet!
October 21, 2021
A little history, a little murder, and a little family drama. What more can you ask for? As with all the books in the series I was hooked from page one. I just don't think I could be as calm when finding a skeleton. I know for a fact that Charlie and Diesel would hear me scream.
Diesel and Ramses make plenty of appearances and keep us on our toes. I feel sorry for Ramses as he never gets to join in the fun and investigate. I hope when he gets older he gets to be more involved. He has the perfect teacher in Diesel.
I was a bit disappointed Helen Louise was off on a girls' weekend but found it very intriguing that she and Charlie can't come to an agreement on where to live. A real-world problem for older engaged couples. Both Charlie and Helen Louise have valid arguments. I am vested to see the decision. I vote that they live at Charlie's since that is the home of Diesel and Ramses and they rent her house out to his borders.
I am already wishing the next book was available NOW. That is the problem with being caught up on a series...the wait.
Diesel and Ramses make plenty of appearances and keep us on our toes. I feel sorry for Ramses as he never gets to join in the fun and investigate. I hope when he gets older he gets to be more involved. He has the perfect teacher in Diesel.
I was a bit disappointed Helen Louise was off on a girls' weekend but found it very intriguing that she and Charlie can't come to an agreement on where to live. A real-world problem for older engaged couples. Both Charlie and Helen Louise have valid arguments. I am vested to see the decision. I vote that they live at Charlie's since that is the home of Diesel and Ramses and they rent her house out to his borders.
I am already wishing the next book was available NOW. That is the problem with being caught up on a series...the wait.
April 18, 2022
Not Bad.
For some reason I found this book average. The story started out to be a mystery in a mystery. Bones found in the attic of Charlie's grandfather's house that he unexpectedly inherited. Then for me it became a so-so story. Charlie ’s age is a another thing I found confusing. The books have always had Charlie saying he's in his mid 50's then in this book he said his grandfather died 45 years ago, when he was 6. So that would make him 51. I know it's a little thing but I'm a stickler for continuity. I also missed Melba and her knowledge of the residents of Athena. She brings a hint of comedy and interest to the books.
I also didn't care for the ending. Not giving a hint as to how the newly discovered cousin fared in any inheritance of her grandfather. Over all I was a little disappointed.
For some reason I found this book average. The story started out to be a mystery in a mystery. Bones found in the attic of Charlie's grandfather's house that he unexpectedly inherited. Then for me it became a so-so story. Charlie ’s age is a another thing I found confusing. The books have always had Charlie saying he's in his mid 50's then in this book he said his grandfather died 45 years ago, when he was 6. So that would make him 51. I know it's a little thing but I'm a stickler for continuity. I also missed Melba and her knowledge of the residents of Athena. She brings a hint of comedy and interest to the books.
I also didn't care for the ending. Not giving a hint as to how the newly discovered cousin fared in any inheritance of her grandfather. Over all I was a little disappointed.
April 5, 2024
I listened to this on audiobook format. I’m continuing to enjoy this series. Cozy mysteries, in general, are quite benign despite the murder aspect. This series is particularly wholesome but I felt that a point was being belaboured a bit . Charlie’s ancestors are discussed a fair bit, and over and over it’s mentioned that they were not slave owners, not racists etc. The series is set in the south of the USA so I realise this is a sensitive topic, and I realise not all the population there back in the day, were fine with slavery, but the authors was just trying too hard to make his protagonist squeaky clean - right down to his past relatives.
September 18, 2021
Still my favorite series
I've loved reading all the books in this series written by Miranda James.
Each book is always an exciting adventure with Charlie, Diesel and now, Ramses.
I'm looking forward to seeing what happens next in this long running series.
I've loved reading all the books in this series written by Miranda James.
Each book is always an exciting adventure with Charlie, Diesel and now, Ramses.
I'm looking forward to seeing what happens next in this long running series.
January 25, 2023
In this fourteenth installment in the Cat in the Stacks series, Charlie Harris has inherited his grandfather's farm. Charlie and Diesel, his Maine Coon cat, drive out to the property. Inside the house, Charlie is reminiscing about his childhood memories when Diesel finds a human skeleton literally tucked away in a closet. Charlie calls the local sheriff to report the skeleton. He is naturally curious about it and proceeds to investigate his family's genealogy for clues to the dead person's identity. Charlie knows that Martin Hale, a long-time dead tenant, could have dug up the skeleton. Who is the dead person without hands or feet? Is it a relative? But why dig it up and place it in the closet? When another body is found dead on the farm, Charlie Harris realizes he will have to search deeply for all the answers.
I enjoyed visiting again with Charlie and Diesel. Azaela's cooking made me hungry while reading the story. She provided some clues, as did the Decotee sisters, but it was the cousin twice removed who inadvertently found clues to the mystery. The villain was someone I felt was annoying, therefore, I didn't consider this person the killer. The mystery plot kept my attention. I also wanted to know if the skeleton was an ancestor of Charlie's. The genealogy search provided the twists and turns in the plot. The dialogue fit each character and Erin Bennett, the narrator of the audiobook, distinguished the voices just enough to help with identifying the characters. The descriptions are detailed and observable. Miranda James authors a well-written novel. Even after fourteen books, the characterization and plot are not dull or a dirge. They are fresh and intriguing. I eagerly look forward to the next novel in this series.
I enjoyed visiting again with Charlie and Diesel. Azaela's cooking made me hungry while reading the story. She provided some clues, as did the Decotee sisters, but it was the cousin twice removed who inadvertently found clues to the mystery. The villain was someone I felt was annoying, therefore, I didn't consider this person the killer. The mystery plot kept my attention. I also wanted to know if the skeleton was an ancestor of Charlie's. The genealogy search provided the twists and turns in the plot. The dialogue fit each character and Erin Bennett, the narrator of the audiobook, distinguished the voices just enough to help with identifying the characters. The descriptions are detailed and observable. Miranda James authors a well-written novel. Even after fourteen books, the characterization and plot are not dull or a dirge. They are fresh and intriguing. I eagerly look forward to the next novel in this series.
November 12, 2021
The newest in the series of amiable, completely untaxing cosy murder mysteries set in a college town in Mississippi, featuring Charlie Harris, a 60-ish, semi-retired librarian working as the college archivist, and Diesel, his 40-lb Maine Coon cat who is well-loved by everyone in town and accompanies Charlie almost everywhere. This bucolic little town nevertheless has to have one of the highest murder rates in the US (or what would Charlie have to solve, right?) This time, Charlie unexpectedly inherits a house and farm land from his long-deceased grandfather, property he’d mistakenly believed had gone out of the family decades earlier. It turns out there are rivals for the property, and then the bodies start turning up…
September 23, 2023
I am a big fan of Miranda (Dean) James' books about Diesel. In this one, Charlie Harris inherited his grandfather's house. When Charlie goes to see the house, he takes Diesel with him. Of course, his this is a cozy mystery, Diesel finds a skull and the mystery begins. For a long time Charlie believed the house had been sold to Martin Hale who was a tenant of his grandfather until Mr. Hale died. Charlie is a librarian and does research on his past and the history of the house. Soon, Martin's grandson is found dead on the farm. The secrets from the past come back to the present. This is one of the best of the series, so far.
October 22, 2021
this is book 14 in the cat in the Stacks series and Diesel and Charlie Harris are traveling to his late grandfather's house to settle the estate. The first thing they find in the house is a human skull in the attic. This is a good cozy with lots of action and catch up with some of the regular characters. You can read this as a stand alone but I've read almost all these books and they are all a little different. I received a copy of this ARC in exchange for a fair and honest review.
May 11, 2024
A nice way to spend a rainy day. I really enjoy the politesse of Charlie. While snarkiness can be fun, it’s nice to read something smooth and easy. Kind of like the difference between a shot of moonshine and a glass of fine wine.
August 31, 2021
I love this mystery and series! There are a handful of long-term cozy mystery series that I simply cannot miss, and this is one of them. The characters, cats, setting, and mysteries are unparalleled, and quite a gift from the author. For those who have not read any of the series, each mystery could be read as a standalone based on the backstory provided where needed. I learned more about Charlie and was entertained by the antics of Diesel, his Maine Coon cat, and Ramses, his orange tabby kitten.
Charlie’s son Sean is an attorney practicing locally with his wife, Alex. Their firm was originally started by her father, who had been well-known as a man of integrity and one of the very best lawyers. Sean contacted Charlie to let him know that in an interesting turn of circumstances; Charlie would inherit his grandparents’ farm. Rather than having been sold decades earlier as he assumed, it had been leased for life to Martin Hale, who was allowed under the terms to lease acreage to farmers for use. Mr. Hale passed away when visiting relatives in another state. His grandson, to whom he told a few tall tales, came to Athena, Mississippi to sell the property. He had quite a surprise to learn from Sean that he would not be getting rich any time soon.
When Charlie went through his grandparents’ home, many things were as he remembered them. Diesel found one thing, however, that probably wasn’t there the last time he visited, over forty years ago. He first found a skull, and in the nearby armoire, the associated skeleton. Minus the hands and feet.
Charlie is happy with his life. A long-time widower, he is engaged to be married again. He works part time at the nearby college, has a tidy pension and savings for the future, his running partner Diesel, and kitten, Ramses. He has no intentions of getting involved in this case, much to the relief of Chief Deputy Kanesha Berry. She will believe it when she sees it, possibly having had heard that before. And Charlie does want to make sure that his grandparents’ good names are not besmirched by this find, however, especially as more findings are made.
I really love this series and novel! There is always something new to learn and new characters to meet. They are all very well defined through actions and dialog. The author knows a great deal about cats, especially Maine Coons, and I am impressed with how well Diesel is portrayed with his many ways of communicating. The mystery is as confounding as usual, and I am happy to say I couldn’t solve it on my own! The real whodunit was a surprise, and I was satisfied overall with Charlie’s decisions. I was sorry to see the story end and am absolutely looking forward to the next in series. I highly recommend this to anyone who enjoys well-written cozy mysteries, cats, and cold cases.
From a thankful heart: I received a complimentary copy of this novel; a review was not required.
Charlie’s son Sean is an attorney practicing locally with his wife, Alex. Their firm was originally started by her father, who had been well-known as a man of integrity and one of the very best lawyers. Sean contacted Charlie to let him know that in an interesting turn of circumstances; Charlie would inherit his grandparents’ farm. Rather than having been sold decades earlier as he assumed, it had been leased for life to Martin Hale, who was allowed under the terms to lease acreage to farmers for use. Mr. Hale passed away when visiting relatives in another state. His grandson, to whom he told a few tall tales, came to Athena, Mississippi to sell the property. He had quite a surprise to learn from Sean that he would not be getting rich any time soon.
When Charlie went through his grandparents’ home, many things were as he remembered them. Diesel found one thing, however, that probably wasn’t there the last time he visited, over forty years ago. He first found a skull, and in the nearby armoire, the associated skeleton. Minus the hands and feet.
Charlie is happy with his life. A long-time widower, he is engaged to be married again. He works part time at the nearby college, has a tidy pension and savings for the future, his running partner Diesel, and kitten, Ramses. He has no intentions of getting involved in this case, much to the relief of Chief Deputy Kanesha Berry. She will believe it when she sees it, possibly having had heard that before. And Charlie does want to make sure that his grandparents’ good names are not besmirched by this find, however, especially as more findings are made.
I really love this series and novel! There is always something new to learn and new characters to meet. They are all very well defined through actions and dialog. The author knows a great deal about cats, especially Maine Coons, and I am impressed with how well Diesel is portrayed with his many ways of communicating. The mystery is as confounding as usual, and I am happy to say I couldn’t solve it on my own! The real whodunit was a surprise, and I was satisfied overall with Charlie’s decisions. I was sorry to see the story end and am absolutely looking forward to the next in series. I highly recommend this to anyone who enjoys well-written cozy mysteries, cats, and cold cases.
From a thankful heart: I received a complimentary copy of this novel; a review was not required.
November 30, 2021
Ohhhhhh I am so glad I decided to give this series one last chance [I really disliked the last few of this series, especially the last book - I am hoping the changes made in this one is due to the outcry of many fans] as this one was by far the best we have had in a very long time. I enjoyed this one so much and it was so close to being a 5 star read for me [just a couple things that just bugged me enough to keep it from being 5]. It was just so darn good. I DID make a discovery as to why some of the previous books didn't work as well for me and well, it is a problematic thing as it is one of the main characters and I don't see them being removed from the series so I need to figure out a way to be okay with them. I just know that they aren't in this one very much and halfway through I realized one of the reasons I was loving it was because they weren't there [along with stellar writing and a GREAT story-line]. Sigh.
September 6, 2021
Charlie Harris, an archival Librarian, finds to his surprise that he has inherited his Grandfather's home and land some forty years after Grandfather's death.
That's not all he has inherited...there are bones and Diesel, Charlie's Maine Coon Cat drags out a skull to show Charlie as they inspect the house.
What is going on? Well, it will take the talents of the police force, a forensic pathologist, and even family trees to solve this mystery.
To, me, this is by far my favorite Cat in the Stacks mystery. I saved this book for a holiday weekend as I wanted to savor a book certain to please my mystery tastes. I certainly did!
Interesting plot, good characters, excellent dialog, and mysteries that fed my curiosity.
That's not all he has inherited...there are bones and Diesel, Charlie's Maine Coon Cat drags out a skull to show Charlie as they inspect the house.
What is going on? Well, it will take the talents of the police force, a forensic pathologist, and even family trees to solve this mystery.
To, me, this is by far my favorite Cat in the Stacks mystery. I saved this book for a holiday weekend as I wanted to savor a book certain to please my mystery tastes. I certainly did!
Interesting plot, good characters, excellent dialog, and mysteries that fed my curiosity.
September 15, 2021
This one was much more my speed than the last one (where they go on vacation with Diesel). I enjoyed getting to know more about Charlie's family and their secrets from the past. The mystery was very well written and incorporated aspects of Charlie's family history with the present and had me guessing until the very end. This was definitely more in keeping with what I love and expected from this series. Can't wait for the next one!
January 25, 2022
3.50 / 4 Stars
**Libby (Overdrive) Audio**
MC: Charlie along with Diesel, his Maine coon cat. Charlies's other cat, Ramses, is in the story, too.
This was my first Miranda James "Cat in the Stacks" book, and it was just what I expected in a cozy mystery. I liked the pace of the story, and since it's book 14 in the series I found out about Charlie's family history right from the beginning! Libby Overdrive doesn't have anymore of MJ's books, but Hoopla has book #4 and up. Think I'll go back and listen to some others.....
No need for me to recap the story...there's a lot of reviews already on GR that give you the gist of the story line.
**Libby (Overdrive) Audio**
MC: Charlie along with Diesel, his Maine coon cat. Charlies's other cat, Ramses, is in the story, too.
This was my first Miranda James "Cat in the Stacks" book, and it was just what I expected in a cozy mystery. I liked the pace of the story, and since it's book 14 in the series I found out about Charlie's family history right from the beginning! Libby Overdrive doesn't have anymore of MJ's books, but Hoopla has book #4 and up. Think I'll go back and listen to some others.....
No need for me to recap the story...there's a lot of reviews already on GR that give you the gist of the story line.
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