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Kat and Mouse Mysteries #5
Murder Unjoyful
Your favourite sleuths are back in this festive-themed latest instalment of the bestselling Kat and Mouse series.
The lead up to Christmas sees the Connection private investigation team planning their festive season. Until a new case arrives…
Catapulted into their biggest mystery yet, they are tasked with finding a killer who has been released on parole, and subsequently disappeared. Has he returned to finish the murder he tried to commit before his capture nineteen years earlier?
As he targets his intended victim, his attention is also focused on the private investigators and their police colleagues with devastating effect.
With families torn apart, Doris must seek assistance from a colleague from her past to give Connection the best chance of bringing a psychopath to justice.
How will it end? Is this the last we will see of Kat, Mouse, Doris and Luke? And can Connection continue?
Also available in the bestselling Kat and Mouse Murder mystery series:
Murder Undeniable
Murder Unexpected
Murder Unearthed
Murder Untimely
Anita Waller is the bestselling author of multiple thrillers including 34 Days, Malignant and Captor. Murder Unjoyful is a gripping cozy mystery which can be read as part of the bestselling Kat and Mouse series or as an unmissable stand-alone. It will appeal to fans of authors like Faith Martin, Agatha Christie, LJ Ross and Betty Rowlands.
The lead up to Christmas sees the Connection private investigation team planning their festive season. Until a new case arrives…
Catapulted into their biggest mystery yet, they are tasked with finding a killer who has been released on parole, and subsequently disappeared. Has he returned to finish the murder he tried to commit before his capture nineteen years earlier?
As he targets his intended victim, his attention is also focused on the private investigators and their police colleagues with devastating effect.
With families torn apart, Doris must seek assistance from a colleague from her past to give Connection the best chance of bringing a psychopath to justice.
How will it end? Is this the last we will see of Kat, Mouse, Doris and Luke? And can Connection continue?
Also available in the bestselling Kat and Mouse Murder mystery series:
Murder Undeniable
Murder Unexpected
Murder Unearthed
Murder Untimely
Anita Waller is the bestselling author of multiple thrillers including 34 Days, Malignant and Captor. Murder Unjoyful is a gripping cozy mystery which can be read as part of the bestselling Kat and Mouse series or as an unmissable stand-alone. It will appeal to fans of authors like Faith Martin, Agatha Christie, LJ Ross and Betty Rowlands.
290 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 24, 2020
114 people are currently reading
131 people want to read
About the author
Anita Waller
47 books465 followersI live in Sheffield, UK. I am retired and have recently fulfilled my lifelong ambition of becoming a published author with Bloodhound Books.
I am married (almost 50 years to Dave) with three children and seven grandchildren.
I am a patchwork and quilting tutor as well as a writer.
My first book was Beautiful and my second, a sequel to Beautiful, is called Angel.
I am married (almost 50 years to Dave) with three children and seven grandchildren.
I am a patchwork and quilting tutor as well as a writer.
My first book was Beautiful and my second, a sequel to Beautiful, is called Angel.
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November 24, 2020
Check out all of my reviews at: https://www.avonnalovesgenres.com
MURDER UNJOYFUL (Kat and Mouse Mysteries Book #5) by Anita Waller is the fifth and final book in this British cozy mystery series. While set in the holiday season around Christmas, the crime and its consequences are darker and less of a strictly cozy mystery than the others in the series. While the mystery can be read as a standalone, I feel the series should be read in order due to the continued evolution and connections of the main characters.
As Christmas approaches everyone at Connection is making their holiday plans until a new and urgent case arrives at their door. Nineteen years ago, Paul Fraser kidnapped and almost killed Julie Clark. She lived, but she was paralyzed and testified against him in court. The felon, who should have been locked up for life, has been paroled and has failed to report for his monthly check-in. He has disappeared and Julie and her husband are afraid he will return to kill the woman who put him in prison.
Connection is on the case with help from a protection firm to protect the family as they search for Paul Fraser. DCI Tessa Marsden and DS Hannah Granger are also searching for him as he begins to leave dead and wounded bodies in his wake. This case will need everything Connection and their friends have to offer and will take more than they could ever imagine.
This was an excellent end to the series. The mystery itself had me completely engrossed and I was continually surprised by the twists and turns it took before the solution. I was happy for all the ladies of Connection and the partners they have found over the series. That said, there are also some terribly sad occurrences in this book to some main characters that had me so upset, but no spoilers allowed. Everything was tied up in the end and you believe the changes that take place in all the characters lives are inevitable and proper.
I feel this is a great series and I can highly recommend it! Ms. Waller gives you intriguing mystery/crime plots that kept me turning the pages and wonderfully realistic characters that feel as though I should be able to visit them in person.
MURDER UNJOYFUL (Kat and Mouse Mysteries Book #5) by Anita Waller is the fifth and final book in this British cozy mystery series. While set in the holiday season around Christmas, the crime and its consequences are darker and less of a strictly cozy mystery than the others in the series. While the mystery can be read as a standalone, I feel the series should be read in order due to the continued evolution and connections of the main characters.
As Christmas approaches everyone at Connection is making their holiday plans until a new and urgent case arrives at their door. Nineteen years ago, Paul Fraser kidnapped and almost killed Julie Clark. She lived, but she was paralyzed and testified against him in court. The felon, who should have been locked up for life, has been paroled and has failed to report for his monthly check-in. He has disappeared and Julie and her husband are afraid he will return to kill the woman who put him in prison.
Connection is on the case with help from a protection firm to protect the family as they search for Paul Fraser. DCI Tessa Marsden and DS Hannah Granger are also searching for him as he begins to leave dead and wounded bodies in his wake. This case will need everything Connection and their friends have to offer and will take more than they could ever imagine.
This was an excellent end to the series. The mystery itself had me completely engrossed and I was continually surprised by the twists and turns it took before the solution. I was happy for all the ladies of Connection and the partners they have found over the series. That said, there are also some terribly sad occurrences in this book to some main characters that had me so upset, but no spoilers allowed. Everything was tied up in the end and you believe the changes that take place in all the characters lives are inevitable and proper.
I feel this is a great series and I can highly recommend it! Ms. Waller gives you intriguing mystery/crime plots that kept me turning the pages and wonderfully realistic characters that feel as though I should be able to visit them in person.
November 17, 2020
Murder Unjoyful is the fifth and sadly the final instalment in the Kat and Mouse cosy mystery series, which concludes in an explosive and more sinister fashion than previous books, featuring Katrina Rowe, a Deacon of the local church and best friend Beth, affectionately known as Mouse, her computer whiz compatriot, who have formerly teamed up together and started a Private Investigation business known as Connection in the sleepy Derbyshire village of Eyam. It isn't necessary to have read any of the previous instalments before this one as the main story is self-contained and enough background is given to bring new readers up to speed regarding the women’s personal lives. The prologue opens the book and details the brazen kidnapping of 31-year-old Julie Clark, who had luckily just dropped her child off at school but made the life-changing decision to go for a coffee leading to her being bundled into a van from outside a Morrison’s supermarket as she ambled leisurely back to her car in January 2000. Kept in a cold, dark cellar, she is forced into believing she must shoot Konrad Bialik else her abductor will hurt her family but things aren't as straightforward as they seem.
We jump forward to 5 December 2019 and Kat Heaton, as she is now known after her marriage to DI Carl Heaton, and colleagues are gearing up for a relaxed and boozy Christmas but when a new case comes in their festive plans are put on the backburner. Wheelchair-bound Julie and her husband, Greg, turn up at the office wanting to hire the firm of PIs and as Kat and Doris interview them, they are told the story of what happened on that fateful day nearly 20 years ago that led to Julie becoming disabled. Now, the perpetrator responsible, Paul Fraser, has scarpered while on probation and the couple are terrified he’ll come back to finish the job, so they want to hire Connection to locate him. This is another compulsive addition to what has becomes a thoroughly gripping cosy series. It has more grit and edge than most cosies and it’s definitely a lot darker in nature. It's well written, pacy and it's always a joy to become reacquainted with the stellar and engaging cast. The setting is also one of the elements that makes these books, as Eyem has that small community atmosphere and is the perfect quintessential English village for this type of story to be set. Highly recommended.
We jump forward to 5 December 2019 and Kat Heaton, as she is now known after her marriage to DI Carl Heaton, and colleagues are gearing up for a relaxed and boozy Christmas but when a new case comes in their festive plans are put on the backburner. Wheelchair-bound Julie and her husband, Greg, turn up at the office wanting to hire the firm of PIs and as Kat and Doris interview them, they are told the story of what happened on that fateful day nearly 20 years ago that led to Julie becoming disabled. Now, the perpetrator responsible, Paul Fraser, has scarpered while on probation and the couple are terrified he’ll come back to finish the job, so they want to hire Connection to locate him. This is another compulsive addition to what has becomes a thoroughly gripping cosy series. It has more grit and edge than most cosies and it’s definitely a lot darker in nature. It's well written, pacy and it's always a joy to become reacquainted with the stellar and engaging cast. The setting is also one of the elements that makes these books, as Eyem has that small community atmosphere and is the perfect quintessential English village for this type of story to be set. Highly recommended.
November 24, 2020
The Connection private investigation team is tasked with finding a killer who was recently paroled. Nineteen years ago, he abducted a young woman, told her he would kill her entire family if she did not do the one thing he wanted her to do ... kill a man.
Scared for her family, she did exactly that ... she shot a man. But then, the abductor shot her in the back, leaving her for dead.
The man was released from prison and immediately disappeared. The feeling is that he is out to finish the job he started all those years ago.
If you have read this series, you won't want to miss this well-written crime fiction with solidly drawn characters who feel more like family. It's action-packed with surprising curves and frequent changes of direction throughout.
This has the feel of an ending .... and I, for one, will miss them all ... at least, all those that survive.
Many thanks to the author / Bloodhound Books for the digital copy of this crime fiction. Read and reviewed voluntarily, opinions expressed here are unbiased and entirely my own.
5 STARS FOR THE SERIES
December 6, 2020
Kat and Mouse are back alongside the rest of the Connections team. Little do they know how much their lives will change when they take on a new case.
As with all the other books in this series, there's a mix of criminal investigation, laughter and tears - and it works. All members of the Connections team are a very likeable lot, but my favourite character is Doris. Anita, I think many other readers will be with me, thanking you for listening to Trish's advice!
There are a couple of emotional parts to the story. After the first, shock was replaced with relief. The second also shocked me as it came out of the blue and was quite graphic for this series.
Anita's acknowledgements hint that this may not in fact be the end - here's hoping, and bonne chance in France Doris!
As with all the other books in this series, there's a mix of criminal investigation, laughter and tears - and it works. All members of the Connections team are a very likeable lot, but my favourite character is Doris. Anita, I think many other readers will be with me, thanking you for listening to Trish's advice!
There are a couple of emotional parts to the story. After the first, shock was replaced with relief. The second also shocked me as it came out of the blue and was quite graphic for this series.
Anita's acknowledgements hint that this may not in fact be the end - here's hoping, and bonne chance in France Doris!
November 24, 2020
In 2000, Julie Clark is abducted and held captive, whilst being held, she hears her families voices over and over. She has to kill a man otherwise her husband, Greg and her son, Oliver will be killed.
Fast forward to 2019 and Paul Fraser had been released from prison and while on probation, he does a runner. Julie and Greg call on Connections to find him before he kills Julie and her family.
How big will the death toll be? Will Paul Fraser get to Julie and her family? With Christmas fast approaching, will everyone be able to enjoy the festive season?
Kat is now married to DI Carl Heaton. Tessa and Hannah are partners at home and work. Is romance in the air for Doris and Alistair?
This has been an excellent series and this book has been my favourite. Full of tension that had me biting my fingernails for the first time in years! This book is full of hope and angst in equal amounts. It is beautifully written and brought a few tears to my eyes along the way. I have come to love the main characters over the series and I am sad it has come to an end. However, what a way to finish a series! No spoilers, you need to read this for yourselves.
Fast forward to 2019 and Paul Fraser had been released from prison and while on probation, he does a runner. Julie and Greg call on Connections to find him before he kills Julie and her family.
How big will the death toll be? Will Paul Fraser get to Julie and her family? With Christmas fast approaching, will everyone be able to enjoy the festive season?
Kat is now married to DI Carl Heaton. Tessa and Hannah are partners at home and work. Is romance in the air for Doris and Alistair?
This has been an excellent series and this book has been my favourite. Full of tension that had me biting my fingernails for the first time in years! This book is full of hope and angst in equal amounts. It is beautifully written and brought a few tears to my eyes along the way. I have come to love the main characters over the series and I am sad it has come to an end. However, what a way to finish a series! No spoilers, you need to read this for yourselves.
November 24, 2020
This story starts off in 2000 when Julie Clark is abducted & held captive after dropping her child off at school. She is then forced to shoot someone & is then shot & wounded herself. The story then fast forwards to the present day when Julie & her husband go to Connections as the person who shot her has been released from prison. And here the plot unfolds in Antia's usual twisting & turning way . It had me on the edge of my seat & shedding tears . I genuinely did not know which way this book was going to pan out & the ending was just amazing....... It was beautiful in its simplicity. I have devoured all of the Kat & Mouse books & am sorry that there are no more but am ever hopeful !
November 17, 2020
This is the final outing for the Connections team. Kat, Mouse, Doris and Luke along with the 2 police officers they have become friends with have a new case.
The Connections team get a call from a disabled woman and her husband. The man who put her in the wheelchair has just been released from prison and she feels that he will be out to finish the job he started - to kill her.
When an old couple are brutally murdered the police realise the 2 are linked.
As has been the case throughout this whole series, the bond between the team is incredible. Picking this up felt like meeting up with old friends you've known for a long time. You get that warm glow and contentment.
This is another brilliant story, with lots of twists and turns and I didn't guess the ending.
Anita has hinted this may not be the final book, but it was only ever supposed to be a trilogy and this is book 6 so I wouldn't blame her if it were. I hope there are more though, this is one of my favourite cast of characters ever.
The Connections team get a call from a disabled woman and her husband. The man who put her in the wheelchair has just been released from prison and she feels that he will be out to finish the job he started - to kill her.
When an old couple are brutally murdered the police realise the 2 are linked.
As has been the case throughout this whole series, the bond between the team is incredible. Picking this up felt like meeting up with old friends you've known for a long time. You get that warm glow and contentment.
This is another brilliant story, with lots of twists and turns and I didn't guess the ending.
Anita has hinted this may not be the final book, but it was only ever supposed to be a trilogy and this is book 6 so I wouldn't blame her if it were. I hope there are more though, this is one of my favourite cast of characters ever.
November 17, 2020
What a great last in the series this is from Anita, it drew me in from the very first page until the last and kept me on the edge of my seat throughout. It was extremely well written and if you have read this series from the beginning you will know and love all the characters.
I am sorry to see the end of these books but who knows what the future will hold and I can thoroughly recommend them all. Well done Anita.
I am sorry to see the end of these books but who knows what the future will hold and I can thoroughly recommend them all. Well done Anita.
November 24, 2020
I know I said last time that Murder Untimely was the fourth and last book in this series but we have been blessed with a fifth story featuring one of my absolute favourite crime fighting combinations of all time! Yes, Kat, Mouse and Doris are back, together with Kat’s husband DI Carl Heaton, Mouse’s boyfriend Joel and the latest perfect recruit to the agency, the wonderful Luke! (I want a Luke for my office please!!)
The story begins with a prologue set almost 20 years ago. Julie Clark has been kidnapped and held in a cellar for three days before being brought out to kill a man called Konrad Bialik. All she can do is think of her husband Greg and five year old son Ollie and the message that they will die unless she does as she is told. And even when she complies, things do not turn out as planned. Fast forward to December 2019 and Christmas is fast approaching. Kat and Carl have just got married and Martha is on a trip of her dreams to Lapland with her grandparents. Doris has been a bit subdued since the death of her great friend Wendy and needs cheering up. A good meaty case is just what she needs. They receive a visit from a potential client, a lady confined to a wheelchair. Her name is Julie Clark and she arrives with husband Greg, and explains how she came to never be able to walk again. As she talks, Doris remembers where she knows the name Bialik from and where she can get a refresher course. Julie now lives in a specially adapted house with Greg, son Ollie and his girlfriend Saskia, together with Julie’s full time carer Tracy and Tracy’s daughter. After the trial for Bialik’s shooting, they have lived contentedly until now. But now the man Julie helped to put in jail has been released and has promptly disappeared. The family are scared and the next day a big meeting is held where the whole family are put into lockdown and armed bodyguards are brought in, while Doris calls upon her old contacts to find out more about Bialik and his death. Connection will need to know a lot more about Julie’s kidnapper if they are to keep the Clark household safe. Before they can make much headway, a double murder with links to the Clarks is discovered and DCI Tessa Marsden and DS Hannah Granger quickly become involved. The pair are now happily living together and planning a future, and are surprised to run into the Connection staff working with armed guards! It starts to look like the family were right to be concerned for their safety as the killer starts to target his victims. Doris enlists help from a former colleague and a rather nice reunion looks to be on the cards. We get another fascinating insight into just what an important and amazing lady she was in earlier years which makes her even more special to me. As the investigators and detectives delve further into the past, more and more buried secrets are unearthed and events take a very nasty turn. With the realization of just how dangerous this killer is, the hunt is on to run him to ground before he can strike again. There are some massive shocks for everyone as the ending unfolds and the truth is revealed about the past and present. And as I have come to expect from Mrs Waller, there is the MOST glorious twist at the end which I really should have seen coming!! I never tire of the banter between our ladies at Connection and hearing about Doris with her killer kicks, once again demonstrating the author's talent for injecting a wonderful sense of humour into the proceedings. I quite often find myself chuckling away as I am reading the witty and caring dialogue between all the characters. I just wish someone would hurry up and televise these books! This is truly fantastic stuff and I have no hesitation recommending this book and indeed the entire series. Whatever happens to Connection, these books will always have a very special place in my heart. 5*
The story begins with a prologue set almost 20 years ago. Julie Clark has been kidnapped and held in a cellar for three days before being brought out to kill a man called Konrad Bialik. All she can do is think of her husband Greg and five year old son Ollie and the message that they will die unless she does as she is told. And even when she complies, things do not turn out as planned. Fast forward to December 2019 and Christmas is fast approaching. Kat and Carl have just got married and Martha is on a trip of her dreams to Lapland with her grandparents. Doris has been a bit subdued since the death of her great friend Wendy and needs cheering up. A good meaty case is just what she needs. They receive a visit from a potential client, a lady confined to a wheelchair. Her name is Julie Clark and she arrives with husband Greg, and explains how she came to never be able to walk again. As she talks, Doris remembers where she knows the name Bialik from and where she can get a refresher course. Julie now lives in a specially adapted house with Greg, son Ollie and his girlfriend Saskia, together with Julie’s full time carer Tracy and Tracy’s daughter. After the trial for Bialik’s shooting, they have lived contentedly until now. But now the man Julie helped to put in jail has been released and has promptly disappeared. The family are scared and the next day a big meeting is held where the whole family are put into lockdown and armed bodyguards are brought in, while Doris calls upon her old contacts to find out more about Bialik and his death. Connection will need to know a lot more about Julie’s kidnapper if they are to keep the Clark household safe. Before they can make much headway, a double murder with links to the Clarks is discovered and DCI Tessa Marsden and DS Hannah Granger quickly become involved. The pair are now happily living together and planning a future, and are surprised to run into the Connection staff working with armed guards! It starts to look like the family were right to be concerned for their safety as the killer starts to target his victims. Doris enlists help from a former colleague and a rather nice reunion looks to be on the cards. We get another fascinating insight into just what an important and amazing lady she was in earlier years which makes her even more special to me. As the investigators and detectives delve further into the past, more and more buried secrets are unearthed and events take a very nasty turn. With the realization of just how dangerous this killer is, the hunt is on to run him to ground before he can strike again. There are some massive shocks for everyone as the ending unfolds and the truth is revealed about the past and present. And as I have come to expect from Mrs Waller, there is the MOST glorious twist at the end which I really should have seen coming!! I never tire of the banter between our ladies at Connection and hearing about Doris with her killer kicks, once again demonstrating the author's talent for injecting a wonderful sense of humour into the proceedings. I quite often find myself chuckling away as I am reading the witty and caring dialogue between all the characters. I just wish someone would hurry up and televise these books! This is truly fantastic stuff and I have no hesitation recommending this book and indeed the entire series. Whatever happens to Connection, these books will always have a very special place in my heart. 5*
November 19, 2020
I give Murder Unjoyful 5 Stars or The Gold Star *See below.
I was afraid of finishing this book, because it is the last in the Kat & Mouse series. Doris, Beth, Kat (and Luke) have been a major part of my life for the last year or so and I was not emotionally ready to say goodbye to them, so, I am afraid Anita you made me cry all the way through!
Mrs Waller is an is an author who does not mince her words and by Chapter 2 not only had I witnessed a murder or two, but an accident that left me reeling and questioning how the author could put her readers through this!
Julie Clark was kidnapped in 2000 and made to kill a man in cold blood. Her kidnapper then tried to kill Julie, but somehow she survived and he, Paul Foster was caught and sent to prison. But nearly 20 years on, he has been released and Julie knows he will be coming for her! In the hope that she can keep herself and her family safe she enlists the Connections Agency to help find him, before he finds her!
This story is set against the backdrop of Christmas. There is snow, twinkling lights, Church services, and even carol singers, the scenery just took my breath away. There are presents, beautifully wrapped and tied with bows, but when the paper is ripped away, it is to reveal bloodshed and heartache for Connections and the Clark family.
Every character is perfectly formed, and the little snippets of their conversations caught my imagination as well as hinting at a twist or two. There is also a romance being rekindled and this provides the perfect antidote to the terror and sadness that is being played out.
The ending is so chilling, it actually belongs in an horror movie, it haunted me for weeks. Even now, when I think about it, I get goosebumps!
I am so glad I read this story on my Kindle, otherwise every page would have been ruined by my tears!
Murder Unjoyful, if this series had to end, and I am praying that it doesn’t, then it definitely goes out in Waller style!
*I do wish we had a Gold Star rating, which a reviewer could use when a book is worth far more than the measly 5 stars on offer.
I was afraid of finishing this book, because it is the last in the Kat & Mouse series. Doris, Beth, Kat (and Luke) have been a major part of my life for the last year or so and I was not emotionally ready to say goodbye to them, so, I am afraid Anita you made me cry all the way through!
Mrs Waller is an is an author who does not mince her words and by Chapter 2 not only had I witnessed a murder or two, but an accident that left me reeling and questioning how the author could put her readers through this!
Julie Clark was kidnapped in 2000 and made to kill a man in cold blood. Her kidnapper then tried to kill Julie, but somehow she survived and he, Paul Foster was caught and sent to prison. But nearly 20 years on, he has been released and Julie knows he will be coming for her! In the hope that she can keep herself and her family safe she enlists the Connections Agency to help find him, before he finds her!
This story is set against the backdrop of Christmas. There is snow, twinkling lights, Church services, and even carol singers, the scenery just took my breath away. There are presents, beautifully wrapped and tied with bows, but when the paper is ripped away, it is to reveal bloodshed and heartache for Connections and the Clark family.
Every character is perfectly formed, and the little snippets of their conversations caught my imagination as well as hinting at a twist or two. There is also a romance being rekindled and this provides the perfect antidote to the terror and sadness that is being played out.
The ending is so chilling, it actually belongs in an horror movie, it haunted me for weeks. Even now, when I think about it, I get goosebumps!
I am so glad I read this story on my Kindle, otherwise every page would have been ruined by my tears!
Murder Unjoyful, if this series had to end, and I am praying that it doesn’t, then it definitely goes out in Waller style!
*I do wish we had a Gold Star rating, which a reviewer could use when a book is worth far more than the measly 5 stars on offer.
November 24, 2020
Another fabulous read from this author; she hits the mark every time!
The team at Connection are beginning to get in the festive spirit as Christmas draws closer; that is, until they get a new case and all festivities are set aside. Focusing on a murder and an attempted murder from almost two decades ago, the convicted man is now out on parole and has seemingly disappeared. With a family being under threat, it is imperative they manage to track him down - and quickly. As both the police force and the team at Connection work harder than ever to locate him, events spiral out of control with deadly consequences. Doris Lester's seeks the help of an ex-colleague to find out what she needs to know - but will it all be too late?
What a read! I adore the characters in these novels - each and every one comes alive on the page. This is a tough mystery; until I reached the very end I was completely blindsided. Anita Waller knows how to tie her readers in knots and she kept me trying to work it all out right to the very end. Another cracking mystery, so beautifully written and I can only imagine the plotting and planning that went on to produce it. Definitely worth all five shiny stars, and the highest recommendation to those who love to wallow in a good mystery.
The team at Connection are beginning to get in the festive spirit as Christmas draws closer; that is, until they get a new case and all festivities are set aside. Focusing on a murder and an attempted murder from almost two decades ago, the convicted man is now out on parole and has seemingly disappeared. With a family being under threat, it is imperative they manage to track him down - and quickly. As both the police force and the team at Connection work harder than ever to locate him, events spiral out of control with deadly consequences. Doris Lester's seeks the help of an ex-colleague to find out what she needs to know - but will it all be too late?
What a read! I adore the characters in these novels - each and every one comes alive on the page. This is a tough mystery; until I reached the very end I was completely blindsided. Anita Waller knows how to tie her readers in knots and she kept me trying to work it all out right to the very end. Another cracking mystery, so beautifully written and I can only imagine the plotting and planning that went on to produce it. Definitely worth all five shiny stars, and the highest recommendation to those who love to wallow in a good mystery.
November 21, 2020
Another brilliant book from Anita Waller.
This is allegedly the last book in the Kat and Mouse series but I’m pinning my hope on the last sentence in the acknowledgements - “or maybe it doesn’t end here....”
I’d love to catch up with all the main characters in a couple of years time so will keep my fingers crossed.
In this book there is a killer on the loose who is determined to finish off what he started nearly 20 years ago.
Julie and Greg ask for Connections help and soon the family are locked down at home with security watching out for them.
Doris, Kat and Mouse receive some shocking news about Luke and the team realise all their lives could be in danger.
Anita has introduced an old flame to Doris’ life and it’s lovely to see her happy after the loss of Wendy.
She’s still determined to find the truth about this case and the team are on hand to help.
This is a great read and one that really had me hooked throughout the book.
I loved the Epilogue and like I said, hope there will be more from these characters one day.
Thanks to Anita Waller for sending me an ARC to review.
This is allegedly the last book in the Kat and Mouse series but I’m pinning my hope on the last sentence in the acknowledgements - “or maybe it doesn’t end here....”
I’d love to catch up with all the main characters in a couple of years time so will keep my fingers crossed.
In this book there is a killer on the loose who is determined to finish off what he started nearly 20 years ago.
Julie and Greg ask for Connections help and soon the family are locked down at home with security watching out for them.
Doris, Kat and Mouse receive some shocking news about Luke and the team realise all their lives could be in danger.
Anita has introduced an old flame to Doris’ life and it’s lovely to see her happy after the loss of Wendy.
She’s still determined to find the truth about this case and the team are on hand to help.
This is a great read and one that really had me hooked throughout the book.
I loved the Epilogue and like I said, hope there will be more from these characters one day.
Thanks to Anita Waller for sending me an ARC to review.
November 24, 2020
Another fantastic instalment to the ‘Kat & Mouse’ series. If you haven’t read any then you are really missing out !!!!
In 2000 Julie Clark is abducted after dropping her son at school. She is held for three days and then forced into shooting and killing Konrad Bialik. Julie is then shot by her captor (Paul Fraser) but she survives.
Fast forward to 2019 and the Connection team are hired by Julie and her husband Greg as Paul Fraser is released from prison and they think he will come after Julie to finish the job.
Kat, Mouse, Doris and Luke take on the case and, as always, bodies are soon lining up. Will the team manage to find Paul Fraser before he kills Julie ?
As with any book by Anita Waller you will not be disappointed but the Kat and Mouse series is a good place to start. To get the real benefit of the book you really do need to start from the first book in the series. Rest assured you will not be disappointed !! I just hope this is not the last we hear of the Connection team.
Thank you to Bloodhound Books for a digital copy of this book.
In 2000 Julie Clark is abducted after dropping her son at school. She is held for three days and then forced into shooting and killing Konrad Bialik. Julie is then shot by her captor (Paul Fraser) but she survives.
Fast forward to 2019 and the Connection team are hired by Julie and her husband Greg as Paul Fraser is released from prison and they think he will come after Julie to finish the job.
Kat, Mouse, Doris and Luke take on the case and, as always, bodies are soon lining up. Will the team manage to find Paul Fraser before he kills Julie ?
As with any book by Anita Waller you will not be disappointed but the Kat and Mouse series is a good place to start. To get the real benefit of the book you really do need to start from the first book in the series. Rest assured you will not be disappointed !! I just hope this is not the last we hear of the Connection team.
Thank you to Bloodhound Books for a digital copy of this book.
November 25, 2020
I enjoyed this suspenseful thriller. This is not my first story by this author but it is one of my favorites hands down. One of the things I enjoy most about this author is her writing skills, her attention to details and her ability to pull me into her stories. This book is no different. I was pulled into this story and kept engaged to the last page. The twists and turns kept me turning pages fast just waiting to see what would happen next. Kat and Mouse are back in another mystery. They are preparing for Christmas when a new case appears. What will happen when a killer is released on parole plus comes up missing? Will he make another apprearance and who will he set his sites on this time? This is a great story I truely enjoyed. I highly recommend this book and this author.
November 19, 2020
Fifteen years ago a woman was kidnapped whilst shopping and forced to shoot someone after being kept naked and without food or water for three days. She was chosen for her shooting skills and also shot at the scene. She has now come to Connection -the PI agency run by Kat, Mouse and Doris to try and get closure. The man who shot her has been released on licence and has fled- she is sure that he will try and finish what he started all those years ago. Doris pulls in some old favours and gets rather more than information in a very good way. Meanwhile the perpetrator is on the loose and causing havoc seemingly slipping under the radar every time. I really love this series. Despite the subject matter(which won’t put you off your dinner) this is a wonderful comfortable read. I’ve loved Doris from the very beginning of the series. This will stand alone but why miss out on the other 5* reads in the series? A few smart twists and turns along the way to keep the grey matter active which I loved. A cleverly crafted plot, wonderful characters and a smile along the way. What's not to like?
November 19, 2020
What a bloody good book! Whizzed through it. I shouldn't have because I reached the end far too quickly and wanted more. I have been following this series and know the characters really well, they are a well mixed bunch that I've grown to love more with each captivating story.
Anita Waller has really not held back with this one. My goodness. Intrigue, mystery, murder, romance, tragedy, humour....you get the picture!
The private investigating team Connections really have their work cut out in this festive tale. Doris, you little tinker (wink).
The big question is, can Connections survive after all this? I darn well hope so! However, it seems like this is the last in the series (sob). But you never know what Anita Waller has up her sleeve...
Stunning writing as always. If you have not read any of the books in the series before I highly recommend you do. A well deserved 5*.
Anita Waller has really not held back with this one. My goodness. Intrigue, mystery, murder, romance, tragedy, humour....you get the picture!
The private investigating team Connections really have their work cut out in this festive tale. Doris, you little tinker (wink).
The big question is, can Connections survive after all this? I darn well hope so! However, it seems like this is the last in the series (sob). But you never know what Anita Waller has up her sleeve...
Stunning writing as always. If you have not read any of the books in the series before I highly recommend you do. A well deserved 5*.
April 17, 2023
This is one of the most enjoyable book series I have read in recent memory! In every book, I have been so caught up with the characters and the story that I never bothered to figure out the mystery. I highly recommend doing the audiobook version of these because the narrator is great and I will drive my family. Crazy now walking around doing a horrible British accent.
November 18, 2020
I wish I could give this 10 stars as Murder Unjoyful, the fifth and sadly the final instalment in the Kat and Mouse cosy mystery series, had me crying and smiling at the same time. Full of twists and turns and me shouting at my kindle.
I read this in two sittings (I tend to read at night and the first night I ended up losing track of the time and stopping at 2am oops.)
Anita is an amazing author and all her books hook you from the start and this one was no exception. I didn't want it to end especially as this is the last one in the series, Kat, Mouse and Doris became a big part of my reading family and I am sad that it has come to a close.
I think it is time to read from the beginning again to get my Kat, Mouse and Doris fix.
I read this in two sittings (I tend to read at night and the first night I ended up losing track of the time and stopping at 2am oops.)
Anita is an amazing author and all her books hook you from the start and this one was no exception. I didn't want it to end especially as this is the last one in the series, Kat, Mouse and Doris became a big part of my reading family and I am sad that it has come to a close.
I think it is time to read from the beginning again to get my Kat, Mouse and Doris fix.
November 17, 2020
Anita Waller just has this wonderful way of pulling you into the story so quickly but throwing red herrings in everywhere and I just never manage to suss out the endings. As always it’s so well written and it’s great to catch up with all the regular characters and meet a few new ones.
This is the 5th in the Kat and Mouse series and I understand the last but I hope not. This time the team become involved in trying to find a recently released prisoner who is a threat to their new client but as usual everything is not as it seems.
Anita Waller really is the master of the crime mystery and this time it’s not quite as ‘cosy’ as previous novels in this series, darker but still not graphic. I loved it and it’s worth every one of the 5* I gave it.
This is the 5th in the Kat and Mouse series and I understand the last but I hope not. This time the team become involved in trying to find a recently released prisoner who is a threat to their new client but as usual everything is not as it seems.
Anita Waller really is the master of the crime mystery and this time it’s not quite as ‘cosy’ as previous novels in this series, darker but still not graphic. I loved it and it’s worth every one of the 5* I gave it.
November 20, 2020
This is another brilliant chapter in the story of Kat and Mouse, and the team at Connection.
And if you think that with a festive title and setting that Anita would go easy on you, think again! This book is filled with heart wrenching twists and emotional turns.
The story is packaged up all neatly and provides ‘endings’ for all of our beloved characters, with just the right amount left unsaid for me to hope that this isn’t REALLY the last in the series.
Definitely worth a read!
And if you think that with a festive title and setting that Anita would go easy on you, think again! This book is filled with heart wrenching twists and emotional turns.
The story is packaged up all neatly and provides ‘endings’ for all of our beloved characters, with just the right amount left unsaid for me to hope that this isn’t REALLY the last in the series.
Definitely worth a read!
November 23, 2020
Another fantastic read in the series. Anita Waller has created a brilliant cast of characters in this series
March 14, 2023
I didn’t quite listen to this in a day but it was a binge audiobook as my activities needed accompaniment.
A very sad tale and whilst the ‘bad’ people were apprehended the toll was high.
The series was meant to have been completed after book 4 and although I thought that was a shame in retrospect I wish the book hadn’t been written. I may listen to a subsequent book but may not.
A very sad tale and whilst the ‘bad’ people were apprehended the toll was high.
The series was meant to have been completed after book 4 and although I thought that was a shame in retrospect I wish the book hadn’t been written. I may listen to a subsequent book but may not.
March 26, 2024
Great story that I am hesitant to call a cozy mystery. It has so much more depth than that designation indicates.
August 3, 2024
The last in the series... absolutely enjoyed this series, and the main characters all became so familiar and real. I love them all. 💗
November 20, 2020
Thoroughly enjoyed this book as I have all of Anitas books, so sad it's the last Kat and Mouse 😢
December 29, 2020
Spoiler alert halfway down the review. Hubby got me this for Christmas and not being a keen reader he checked the reassuringly glowing reviews before buying. Now whilst I enjoy Christmassy crime as much as anyone, and I really am grateful for the pressie (it is a book after all), I have to say I am mystified by the five star ratings. It is certainly a quick read, and an unusual (incongruous?) blend of predominantly cosy crime with occasional extreme violence (I'm happy with either, just maybe not together). However my main complaint is that the characterization is incredibly superficial. The dialogue is unconvincing and inconsistent (for example an elderly character veering disconcertingly between doddery endearments one minute and sassy come-backs the next) and the motivation is wafer-thin (I'm not sure how much it would take for me to aid and abet a psychopath but I suspect a bit more than that). The characters are constantly dishing out coffee and biscuits like the Famous Five knocking back lashings of ginger beer - often, rather disconcertingly, while there is still some urgent and life-threatening clue still to be followed up. The twist in the last few paragraphs is truly unbelievable (not in a good way) and also thematically pointless, in the way that kids can't resist adding gratuitous sensational embelishments to their stories. If you are still reading you might be wondering why as many as two stars for this then? Well, I did read it to the end, also it's Christmas now and the book is Christmassy, and I suppose I did want to know whodunnit, which I guess shows it worked on a certain level. But overall this Kat and Mouse novel is about as grown-up and believable as an episode of Tom and Jerry.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 23, 2022
The fifth and final (for now) in the Kat and Mouse Mystery series.
This book does not continue straight on from book 4. There is a definite break - I don't know if there is a short story somewhere that fills in the gaps but I couldn't find one. There is a summary of what has happened in between and life has moved on for Kat, Mouse and Doris.
They are hired to find a missing parolee who was committed for attempted murder amidst worries he will try again.
I did enjoy learning more about Kat and Mouse and LOVED more about Doris and Luke. I loved learning more about Doris' past and Luke's family. However several parts were just a bit too forced - felt unreal and less likely. Also very very much darker and I did not enjoy some of the twists.
This book does not continue straight on from book 4. There is a definite break - I don't know if there is a short story somewhere that fills in the gaps but I couldn't find one. There is a summary of what has happened in between and life has moved on for Kat, Mouse and Doris.
They are hired to find a missing parolee who was committed for attempted murder amidst worries he will try again.
I did enjoy learning more about Kat and Mouse and LOVED more about Doris and Luke. I loved learning more about Doris' past and Luke's family. However several parts were just a bit too forced - felt unreal and less likely. Also very very much darker and I did not enjoy some of the twists.
December 3, 2020
This is both a heartwarming and yet quite a dark book. It opens with the kidnap of a woman who is then forced to murder a man.
Jumping forward in time nearly two decades later a couple, Julie and Greg, arrive at Connections – the detective agency set up by Kat and Mouse – their story is about how Julie ended up in a wheelchair and that the man who did this has recently been released from prison on parole. The man has now disappeared. Julie and her husband, Greg, are really worried that he is out to find Julie, who testified against him, in order to take his revenge.
The Connections team – Kat, Mouse, Mouse’s grandmother Doris and Luke – swing into action when they realise that everything is tied into the killing that took place decades ago. They bring in a security team headed up by Mark Plater to keep Julie, Greg, their son Oliver and his girlfriend Saskia, Julie’s carer Tracy and her daughter Kaya safe and locked down in their home.
DCI Tessa Marsden has been brought in to oversee the police investigation into the missing prisoner. She and Hayley now live together – under the radar of work – and Hayley, a D.S., is part of the police investigation as well. Craig, Kat’s husband, is a D.I. in the Derbyshire force and is overseeing things until Tessa arrives.
Even though Connections have been engaged to locate the missing man – Paul Fraser – they have previous history of working investigations alongside the Police and they have worked well together.
In this fifth and, purportedly, the last book of this cracking series we are approaching Christmas and Amanda Waller blends the joy of Christmas, friends and family with this ‘Unjoyful’ investigation which will hit Connections and those close to them very hard. Anita Waller does not pull any punches and this is not a tame or cosy, humdrum tale. No, not at all. Rather it is a twisted tale of revenge and betrayal on a number of levels. Yet, you still feel and enjoy the strong relationships between Kat, Craig and their daughter Martha, Mouse and her boyfriend Joel, Luke and Doris. Along with their police friends – Tessa and Hayley. All of whom are well drawn and you, reader if you are anything like me, are totally invested in.
Alongside the investigation is the story of Mouse’s Nan and a friend who she calls upon to help with information about Konrad Bialik, the man who was killed, and in locating Paul – Alastair Glentham, an old flame and colleague, wants to takes this opportunity to see if what he still feels about Doris is reciprocated and a relationship can be rekindled. So, rather than just sending information electronically, he turns up in person. This is such a charming side story and yet another thread woven seamlessly into the whole.
I have not meet the author but I reckon she is a straight talking, kindhearted woman who doesn’t brook any kind of nonsense, if at all possible, because that is how she writes and still she is able to cleverly draw you into a dark, engrossing storyline with enough others threads to keep you rather upbeat. There are also some truly heartbreaking moments and a twist or two so that just when you think it’s all over something else crops up and then there’s the end which truly is dark.
I’ll be sad if this is the last Kat and Mouse – a series which I have enjoyed – maybe there’s room for another just to tie up one or two loose ends. Maybe it’s better to stop so that it doesn’t become stale. Whatever happens this has been another cracking read from Anita Waller which I thoroughly enjoyed.
This is a really good series and one which I would most certainly recommend.
Thanks
With thanks to Hayley at Bloodhound Books for the invitation to read Murder Unjoyful and an eBook via NetGalley. All thoughts are my own, I do not receive any payment for my reviews.
Jumping forward in time nearly two decades later a couple, Julie and Greg, arrive at Connections – the detective agency set up by Kat and Mouse – their story is about how Julie ended up in a wheelchair and that the man who did this has recently been released from prison on parole. The man has now disappeared. Julie and her husband, Greg, are really worried that he is out to find Julie, who testified against him, in order to take his revenge.
The Connections team – Kat, Mouse, Mouse’s grandmother Doris and Luke – swing into action when they realise that everything is tied into the killing that took place decades ago. They bring in a security team headed up by Mark Plater to keep Julie, Greg, their son Oliver and his girlfriend Saskia, Julie’s carer Tracy and her daughter Kaya safe and locked down in their home.
DCI Tessa Marsden has been brought in to oversee the police investigation into the missing prisoner. She and Hayley now live together – under the radar of work – and Hayley, a D.S., is part of the police investigation as well. Craig, Kat’s husband, is a D.I. in the Derbyshire force and is overseeing things until Tessa arrives.
Even though Connections have been engaged to locate the missing man – Paul Fraser – they have previous history of working investigations alongside the Police and they have worked well together.
In this fifth and, purportedly, the last book of this cracking series we are approaching Christmas and Amanda Waller blends the joy of Christmas, friends and family with this ‘Unjoyful’ investigation which will hit Connections and those close to them very hard. Anita Waller does not pull any punches and this is not a tame or cosy, humdrum tale. No, not at all. Rather it is a twisted tale of revenge and betrayal on a number of levels. Yet, you still feel and enjoy the strong relationships between Kat, Craig and their daughter Martha, Mouse and her boyfriend Joel, Luke and Doris. Along with their police friends – Tessa and Hayley. All of whom are well drawn and you, reader if you are anything like me, are totally invested in.
Alongside the investigation is the story of Mouse’s Nan and a friend who she calls upon to help with information about Konrad Bialik, the man who was killed, and in locating Paul – Alastair Glentham, an old flame and colleague, wants to takes this opportunity to see if what he still feels about Doris is reciprocated and a relationship can be rekindled. So, rather than just sending information electronically, he turns up in person. This is such a charming side story and yet another thread woven seamlessly into the whole.
I have not meet the author but I reckon she is a straight talking, kindhearted woman who doesn’t brook any kind of nonsense, if at all possible, because that is how she writes and still she is able to cleverly draw you into a dark, engrossing storyline with enough others threads to keep you rather upbeat. There are also some truly heartbreaking moments and a twist or two so that just when you think it’s all over something else crops up and then there’s the end which truly is dark.
I’ll be sad if this is the last Kat and Mouse – a series which I have enjoyed – maybe there’s room for another just to tie up one or two loose ends. Maybe it’s better to stop so that it doesn’t become stale. Whatever happens this has been another cracking read from Anita Waller which I thoroughly enjoyed.
This is a really good series and one which I would most certainly recommend.
Thanks
With thanks to Hayley at Bloodhound Books for the invitation to read Murder Unjoyful and an eBook via NetGalley. All thoughts are my own, I do not receive any payment for my reviews.
June 14, 2025
Well as the saying goes, all good things must come to an end, which is fitting for the Kat and Mouse series. What was meant to just be a trilogy turned into a five book series and although I could read about these characters forever, it is now the right time to let them go. (Cue chin quiver and watery eyes now!)
Murder Unjoyful is a thrilling read that is beautifully written and will have you immediately hooked. There is never a dull moment and yes you will need to have the tissues on hand! Fraught with tension and suspense throughout, this has been masterfully plotted and narrated with plenty of twists and turns to keep you on your toes as well as jaw dropping moments!
If you are familiar with Anita Waller’s work, you know she likes to shock and every character is fair game in the murder count. There were many times my heart was in my throat while reading this book and was racing so fast, waiting to see what she was going to do! I had to put the book down to calm myself quite a few times!
I am now full on crying writing this review. This series and its characters right from the beginning got under my skin and I have come to really love them. I am thankful to Anita Waller for writing this amazing series and also making me a part of it, where my name was used for a character in Murder Unearthed. A dream come true.
Kat and Mouse is such a unique series and Anita Waller has put her heart and soul into this. Giving the readers what they want with an extra two books, really was the perfect gift and this last instalment wraps it all up well. So for the last time, it was my absolute pleasure to read and review all the books in this amazing series, which I can not recommend highly enough! (Sniff)
Murder Unjoyful is a thrilling read that is beautifully written and will have you immediately hooked. There is never a dull moment and yes you will need to have the tissues on hand! Fraught with tension and suspense throughout, this has been masterfully plotted and narrated with plenty of twists and turns to keep you on your toes as well as jaw dropping moments!
If you are familiar with Anita Waller’s work, you know she likes to shock and every character is fair game in the murder count. There were many times my heart was in my throat while reading this book and was racing so fast, waiting to see what she was going to do! I had to put the book down to calm myself quite a few times!
I am now full on crying writing this review. This series and its characters right from the beginning got under my skin and I have come to really love them. I am thankful to Anita Waller for writing this amazing series and also making me a part of it, where my name was used for a character in Murder Unearthed. A dream come true.
Kat and Mouse is such a unique series and Anita Waller has put her heart and soul into this. Giving the readers what they want with an extra two books, really was the perfect gift and this last instalment wraps it all up well. So for the last time, it was my absolute pleasure to read and review all the books in this amazing series, which I can not recommend highly enough! (Sniff)
December 2, 2020
Murder Unjoyful by Anita Waller.
There are plenty of twists in this compelling story of Julie Clark, coerced by blackmail into assassinating a Polish drug lord. But the execution comes at a price when Julie is double-crossed and destined to spend the rest of her life in a wheelchair.
After testifying against the man who made her carry out the killing, he plots his revenge after being released from prison many years later.
Julie and her family find themselves in a lockdown of the non-covid kind when they are confined to their home by a hired team of security specialists.
The police collaborate with the security team in a desperate bid to catch the man before he gets to Julie – but who can she really trust? Is everything and everyone all they seem to be?
Anita Waller writes with conviction and ratchets up the tension in this fifth outing for the ever vigilant sleuths Kat and Mouse, and the Connections team. Just when you have settled down to see how anticipated events unfold, they take a highly unexpected turn.
For those who like their crime seasoned with romance Anita skilfully weaves a 50 year old love affair into the fabric of her story.
Carrying more red herrings than a Siberian trawler, this book is highly recommended.
There are plenty of twists in this compelling story of Julie Clark, coerced by blackmail into assassinating a Polish drug lord. But the execution comes at a price when Julie is double-crossed and destined to spend the rest of her life in a wheelchair.
After testifying against the man who made her carry out the killing, he plots his revenge after being released from prison many years later.
Julie and her family find themselves in a lockdown of the non-covid kind when they are confined to their home by a hired team of security specialists.
The police collaborate with the security team in a desperate bid to catch the man before he gets to Julie – but who can she really trust? Is everything and everyone all they seem to be?
Anita Waller writes with conviction and ratchets up the tension in this fifth outing for the ever vigilant sleuths Kat and Mouse, and the Connections team. Just when you have settled down to see how anticipated events unfold, they take a highly unexpected turn.
For those who like their crime seasoned with romance Anita skilfully weaves a 50 year old love affair into the fabric of her story.
Carrying more red herrings than a Siberian trawler, this book is highly recommended.
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