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A Catskills Pet Rescue Mystery #3
Claws for Suspicion
When someone from her past comes to town to cause trouble, Kari Stuart and her sassy kitten Queenie will have to work hard to protect the Serenity Sanctuary in this new Catskills Pet Rescue Mystery.
Kari Stuart is finally starting to relax into her role as the new owner of the Serenity Sanctuary and is looking forward to the various fun autumn activities in the beautiful Catskills town of Lakeview, like the annual Oktoberfest celebration. It's time for friends and quality bonding with handsome vet Angus McCoy. Until the unexpected arrival of her unpleasant ex-husband, Charlie Smith.
He comes bearing a shocking revelation--the paperwork on their divorce never went through, and they are still married. Worse yet, he thinks this entitles him to half of her lottery winnings--although he'll happily take partial ownership of the sanctuary instead. Kari isn't sure if he's telling the truth, or if it's just another one of Charlie's lies.
But things go from bad to worse when an unexpected death makes Kari the main suspect in a murder investigation. Will she and Queenie be able to find the real killer and keep the home they've built at the sanctuary safe, or is their string of luck finally tapped out?
Kari Stuart is finally starting to relax into her role as the new owner of the Serenity Sanctuary and is looking forward to the various fun autumn activities in the beautiful Catskills town of Lakeview, like the annual Oktoberfest celebration. It's time for friends and quality bonding with handsome vet Angus McCoy. Until the unexpected arrival of her unpleasant ex-husband, Charlie Smith.
He comes bearing a shocking revelation--the paperwork on their divorce never went through, and they are still married. Worse yet, he thinks this entitles him to half of her lottery winnings--although he'll happily take partial ownership of the sanctuary instead. Kari isn't sure if he's telling the truth, or if it's just another one of Charlie's lies.
But things go from bad to worse when an unexpected death makes Kari the main suspect in a murder investigation. Will she and Queenie be able to find the real killer and keep the home they've built at the sanctuary safe, or is their string of luck finally tapped out?
288 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published May 3, 2022
About the author
Deborah Blake
96 books1,800 followersDeborah is the author of over a dozen non-fiction books on modern witchcraft and a tarot and oracle decks from Llewellyn. Her fiction includes the Baba Yaga series, The Broken Rider series, and the Veiled Magic series, and her cozy mysteries The Catskill Pet Rescue series (mostly from Berkley) as well as a few stand-alone novels.
Deborah lives in a 130 year old farmhouse in upstate NY with multiple cats. She believes in magic, laughter, chocolate, and wine. The order may change depending on the day.
Deborah lives in a 130 year old farmhouse in upstate NY with multiple cats. She believes in magic, laughter, chocolate, and wine. The order may change depending on the day.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 75 reviews
July 8, 2022
Claws for Suspicion is the third book in the Catskill Pet Rescue Mysteries written by Deborah Blake. I've read and enjoyed the first two in this cozy mystery series, and I borrowed the latest from the library. It was filled with fun and clever moments and is a collection I'd recommend to others who enjoy books focused on small towns in New York and centered around animal themes. In this installment, protagonist Kari must deal with her not-so-ex-husband who has returned much to her dismay, claiming their divorce was never finalized and that he expects 50% of her recent lottery winnings. For kicks, he suggests they get back together, and given his passive-aggressive attitude, that's not going to happen. Also, he's poisoned a few days later and there are several potential suspects. Poor Kari hasn't had it easy since moving back home and taking over the local animal shelter. What did she do wrong in a previous life? Author Blake keeps her readers laughing with cute dialog and memorable moments. I will definitely continue reading this series.
May 2, 2022
The first thing that caught my attention making me want to read this book is the cover. Pretty fall colors, a black kitty, an idyllic lake.....the skull and crossbones. Definitely cozy style. A small town so peaceful and wonderful....until a dead body pops up. :)Gotta love cozies! Plus, Fall is my favorite time of the year, so I jumped right on this book.
I somehow missed the second book in this series and didn't realize it until I got a bit into this book. Claws for Suspicion is the third book in the Catskills Pet Rescue series. It didn't harm my enjoyment of the book that I skipped the second book....not really any spoilers and I was easily able to follow the characters and plot.
The basics: Kari Stuart is settling into her new business - an animal shelter called Serenity Sanctuary. But then her ex husband Charlie shows up, spouting nonsense about she owes him a rather large sum of money from lottery winnings. It gets even worse....Charlie turns up dead and Kari is the #1 suspect, of course. So much for serenity....
Enjoyable story! I'm definitely going to backtrack and read book 2. I like the characters, the setting and an animal shelter being part of the background of the plot. The story moves at a nice pace, and there is plenty of investigation and surprises. There aren't any intricate twists or huge reveals, but it was a fun, entertaining cozy! And the front cover is awesome!
**I voluntarily read a review copy of this book from Berkley Publishing. All opinions expressed are entirely my own**
I somehow missed the second book in this series and didn't realize it until I got a bit into this book. Claws for Suspicion is the third book in the Catskills Pet Rescue series. It didn't harm my enjoyment of the book that I skipped the second book....not really any spoilers and I was easily able to follow the characters and plot.
The basics: Kari Stuart is settling into her new business - an animal shelter called Serenity Sanctuary. But then her ex husband Charlie shows up, spouting nonsense about she owes him a rather large sum of money from lottery winnings. It gets even worse....Charlie turns up dead and Kari is the #1 suspect, of course. So much for serenity....
Enjoyable story! I'm definitely going to backtrack and read book 2. I like the characters, the setting and an animal shelter being part of the background of the plot. The story moves at a nice pace, and there is plenty of investigation and surprises. There aren't any intricate twists or huge reveals, but it was a fun, entertaining cozy! And the front cover is awesome!
**I voluntarily read a review copy of this book from Berkley Publishing. All opinions expressed are entirely my own**
March 1, 2023
I enjoyed the last story in this series. I really like the small cat, Queenie’s part in crime solving!
May 4, 2022
The shelter that Kari Stuart bought when she won the lottery is finally in great shape. However, all that is threatened when Kari’s ex-husband shows up in town. Charlie Smith arrives baring the news that there was a mistake with their divorce, and they are technically still married. As a result, he is entitled to half Kari’s winnings. Or, he will settle for the land the pet shelter is on. Kari has no interest in giving Charlie anything, so she starts trying to figure out how to get him to go away. Then he dies, and his death looks like murder. The police view Kari as their prime suspect since she is the only one in town with a motive. Can Kari convince them that someone else killed Charlie?
While the ex coming back to town isn’t a new plot element in a cozy mystery, Charlie’s motives and the complications are definitely fresh here. I did feel the plot stalled a bit before Charlie actually died, although it was setting up motives and suspects before it happened. Once it did, Kari followed a logical set of clues to the climax. I always appreciate how well things are laid out when I reach the end of the books in this series. I love Kari’s circle of friends, and it was wonderful to spend time with them again. The suspects fit wonderfully into the world. Naturally, there’s plenty of animal cuteness here as well. Fans of the series will be happy with this book, and if you haven’t started it yet, you’ll be happy you picked up one of the books.
Read my full review at Carstairs Considers.
While the ex coming back to town isn’t a new plot element in a cozy mystery, Charlie’s motives and the complications are definitely fresh here. I did feel the plot stalled a bit before Charlie actually died, although it was setting up motives and suspects before it happened. Once it did, Kari followed a logical set of clues to the climax. I always appreciate how well things are laid out when I reach the end of the books in this series. I love Kari’s circle of friends, and it was wonderful to spend time with them again. The suspects fit wonderfully into the world. Naturally, there’s plenty of animal cuteness here as well. Fans of the series will be happy with this book, and if you haven’t started it yet, you’ll be happy you picked up one of the books.
Read my full review at Carstairs Considers.
May 24, 2022
Kari and the Serenity Sanctuary crew are back, still caring for homeless pets and solving murders. In this one, Kari has put her ex-husband, Charlie, far behind her and thought he was long gone. And he was - until he found out she won the lottery. Claiming the divorce was never final, he shows up in Lakeview demanding his half of her winnings, telling Kari he plans on turning the sanctuary into a glamping resort. After a night at Oktoberfest sampling bers, Charlie collapses and dies at the hospital, putting Kari right in the crosshairs of a murder investigation.
When I saw this one come up on Netgalley, I had to have it. I read the first one a few months ago and fell in love with the characters (especially Queeenie!) and the plots. What I really enjoyed about this one was learning more of Kari's backstory and more about what makes her tick (and, in this one, I think she learned more about what makes her tick) and that kind of character development is really what draws me into a series and this one handles it well.
It was the plot that really shined in this one; it's always satisfying to see an odious character get his fatal comeuppance and the conclusion - so tragic! This one will probably stick with me awhile, so senseless and devastating.
Another great entry into the Catskills Pet Rescue series and purr-fect for anyone who loves adorable cats, great characters and great plots.
When I saw this one come up on Netgalley, I had to have it. I read the first one a few months ago and fell in love with the characters (especially Queeenie!) and the plots. What I really enjoyed about this one was learning more of Kari's backstory and more about what makes her tick (and, in this one, I think she learned more about what makes her tick) and that kind of character development is really what draws me into a series and this one handles it well.
It was the plot that really shined in this one; it's always satisfying to see an odious character get his fatal comeuppance and the conclusion - so tragic! This one will probably stick with me awhile, so senseless and devastating.
Another great entry into the Catskills Pet Rescue series and purr-fect for anyone who loves adorable cats, great characters and great plots.
May 2, 2022
Everything is going so well for Kari Stuart. Her new animal rescue, Serenity Sanctuary, is popular with the small Catskills town. After a terrible divorce, it has given Kari a new lease on life. She couldn’t be happier. She even has her own little kitten Queenie by her side.
Then, her nasty ex-husband, Charlie Smith slithers into town and turns her world upside down. He claims they were never divorced and he wants half of everything she owns. Even if it means taking over Serenity Sanctuary and the property it stands on. Kari is desperate to prove he’s lying but a murder occurs first and Kari is the number one suspect.
Will she lose everything she worked so hard to build for herself? Kari’s friends are not about to let that happen. As the police focus on Kari as the culprit, Kari and her friends look elsewhere for a killer.
This is the third book in the series and it has quickly become one of my favorite cozy mystery series. I love everything about it from the characters to the setting to the adorable animals (Queenie being the favorite, of course).
The author has developed a cast of realistic characters who truly feel like old friends. Kari’s kitten, Queenie even has her own personality and an amazing ability to track down clues and bad guys. No, it’s not paranormal and Queenie has no “super powers” but she is an incredibly smart kitty :)
I, also, enjoy the Catskills setting. Growing up in New York, I’ve been to the Catskills many times and those small areas are the perfect cozy mystery settings. They are quaint, small towns with townspeople who know everything and everyone. In this book it came in handy.
It’s a fast-paced mystery with many twists and turns. I was sure I knew who the bad guy was, but I was wrong. It kept me surprised until the last couple of chapters. Although the mystery is contained in this book, I do think it’s better to read the series in order. It gives you a better feel for what Kari has been through and where she is now.
This is one of my favorites of 2022, so far. I really do hope this series continues. I want more Kari and Queenie!
FTC Disclosure: I voluntarily reviewed a free Advance Reader Copy of this book from NetGalley and the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own.
Then, her nasty ex-husband, Charlie Smith slithers into town and turns her world upside down. He claims they were never divorced and he wants half of everything she owns. Even if it means taking over Serenity Sanctuary and the property it stands on. Kari is desperate to prove he’s lying but a murder occurs first and Kari is the number one suspect.
Will she lose everything she worked so hard to build for herself? Kari’s friends are not about to let that happen. As the police focus on Kari as the culprit, Kari and her friends look elsewhere for a killer.
This is the third book in the series and it has quickly become one of my favorite cozy mystery series. I love everything about it from the characters to the setting to the adorable animals (Queenie being the favorite, of course).
The author has developed a cast of realistic characters who truly feel like old friends. Kari’s kitten, Queenie even has her own personality and an amazing ability to track down clues and bad guys. No, it’s not paranormal and Queenie has no “super powers” but she is an incredibly smart kitty :)
I, also, enjoy the Catskills setting. Growing up in New York, I’ve been to the Catskills many times and those small areas are the perfect cozy mystery settings. They are quaint, small towns with townspeople who know everything and everyone. In this book it came in handy.
It’s a fast-paced mystery with many twists and turns. I was sure I knew who the bad guy was, but I was wrong. It kept me surprised until the last couple of chapters. Although the mystery is contained in this book, I do think it’s better to read the series in order. It gives you a better feel for what Kari has been through and where she is now.
This is one of my favorites of 2022, so far. I really do hope this series continues. I want more Kari and Queenie!
FTC Disclosure: I voluntarily reviewed a free Advance Reader Copy of this book from NetGalley and the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own.
April 11, 2022
“Claws for Suspicion” the 3rd instalment in the Catskill Pet Rescue Mystery series by Deborah Blake. I really enjoy this series and tend to read in one day as I become so engrossed in the story.
When someone from her past comes to town to cause trouble, Kari Stuart and her sassy kitten Queenie will have to work hard to protect the Serenity Sanctuary.
I enjoyed visiting Lakeview and Kari’s Serenity Sanctuary again. The book was well-written with wonderful characters, such as Kari, Suz, Angus and the volunteers at Serenity Sanctuary. I especially love Queenie the black kitten! We learn more about why Kari moved home in this instalment and a bit more into Bre’s history too.
The mystery is interesting and well plotted, I kept guessing and second-guessing myself on whodunnit right to the very end. I'm really looking forward to the next book.
I recommend this book to all my cozy lover friends.
I requested and received and Advanced Readers Copy from Berkeley Publishing and NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
When someone from her past comes to town to cause trouble, Kari Stuart and her sassy kitten Queenie will have to work hard to protect the Serenity Sanctuary.
I enjoyed visiting Lakeview and Kari’s Serenity Sanctuary again. The book was well-written with wonderful characters, such as Kari, Suz, Angus and the volunteers at Serenity Sanctuary. I especially love Queenie the black kitten! We learn more about why Kari moved home in this instalment and a bit more into Bre’s history too.
The mystery is interesting and well plotted, I kept guessing and second-guessing myself on whodunnit right to the very end. I'm really looking forward to the next book.
I recommend this book to all my cozy lover friends.
I requested and received and Advanced Readers Copy from Berkeley Publishing and NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
April 15, 2022
I love this series so much. It's such a feel good story (except the murder part because ofcourse that's bad) about people who volunteer at a pet rescue and do good things. If I could I would definitely go volunteer at Serenity Shelter to help out.
Kari is thinking about how far she's come in these last 4 years and how thankful she is for her life and friends in Lakeview when in walks her ex-husband, Charlie, with news that blindsides her and realizes she could lose everything she's worked for. Her worries take somewhat of a backseat though when she becomes the prime suspect in his murder. Lakeview is a small town and with it comes everyone knowing all your business and gossiping. In this case though, its that small town charm that helps Kari solve the murder.
Kari is thinking about how far she's come in these last 4 years and how thankful she is for her life and friends in Lakeview when in walks her ex-husband, Charlie, with news that blindsides her and realizes she could lose everything she's worked for. Her worries take somewhat of a backseat though when she becomes the prime suspect in his murder. Lakeview is a small town and with it comes everyone knowing all your business and gossiping. In this case though, its that small town charm that helps Kari solve the murder.
November 18, 2023
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 24, 2022
With the Serenity Sanctuary finally sustainable and busy adopting out adorable animals, Kari can focus on her future now. Her stability and comfort are interrupted with the arrival of her controlling ex-husband, Charlie, who claims they're not actually divorced! Seeing as how they're still married, Charlie believes he's entitled to half Kari's lottery winnings. Since she's spent half on the shelter already, he'll just take the land, thank you. Charlie already has plans, with a business partner, to remove the shelter and set up a glamping resort. Kari vows to fight his plan to the death. She doesn't owe him anything and she worked too hard to get the shelter up and running again to let the animals and the volunteers down. Charlie doesn't take no for an answer and keeps turning up where he's not wanted. Furthermore, a mysterious blond woman, claiming to want to adopt a pet but acting strangely, arrives in town and Angus was spotted having lunch with her! When Charlie turns up at brunch at Kari's visibly ill, she doesn't think much of it only that it will prolong the fight. The next thing she knows, his landlady at the local inn calls to say she sent Charlie to the ER because of his illness. Kari is sure it's nothing but since Charlie is all alone in town she heads out to the ER to wait. Unfortunately the news is not good. Charlie did not survive his brief illness and what's more, the doctor believes he was poisoned! Sheriff Richardson becomes involved and sets his sights squarely on Kari-again. Even though he knows her now, there just aren't any other suspects. Kari is determined to find out what happened, clear her name and see justice done. It isn't looking good for her though. Could this be the end of her brief happiness?
I like this series well enough. I wish there was more about the shelter than cleaning up. I want to get to know the adoptable pets and even the shelter mascots. I also want to see more of Fred and the other cats besides Queenie. Queenie is a little too unbelievable to me. If she could talk she would have solved the whole mystery right away. Kari should pay more attention to Queenie's clues. I did and figured out when the poison was administered. I also figured out who did it because there are only two suspects besides Kari and any number of unnamed characters. (I ruled out all the series regulars). It was pretty obvious. I thought though that there was going to be a twist to the motive. I didn't have that one entirely figured out. It came as a great disappointment when all was revealed. I just didn't like who and why. Even if you're aiming your book at middle schoolers and up, try to at least write it more complicated than that. I'm pretty sure 13-year-olds could figure this out too.
After three books I've gotten to know the characters a bit and would say Kari is the least fleshed out. Here we get to know her better as she reveals details of her relationship with Charlie. She's grown up a lot since then and is in a more mature, better space. She knows what she does NOT want in her personal relationships and is better able to stand up for herself. I think winning the lottery was a wonderful thing for her personal growth. She seemed kind of sad and lonely before, the type of person someone like Charlie could prey on. He was truly an awful person. I'm sure he was a narcissist. Unused to and unable to hear the word "no", Charlie manipulated facts, told himself lies and shared those lies with others as the truth, damaging Kari's reputation in the process. Charlie's plan is actually not a bad one, however, it's not logistical to move the shelter, especially not after they just fixed it up! What would happen to the animals? He never bothers to ask Kari what she wants, he thinks he can persuade her with his charm. Yuck. What a loser. Everything else he does is so completely horrendous that I'm not surprised he ended up dead. Who wouldn't want to kill him?
Kari has great friends now who are willing to stand behind her 100% AND they love animals and rescuing animals so they won't back down when threatened. Sara is as efficient as always. She knows everyone and I think Kari needs to listen to Sara more often. Call that lawyer! Sara may be a tough teacher but sometimes that comes in handy when standing up to bullies like Charlie. Even Bryn likes Kari now and even if she didn't, she'd fight hard for the animals. Suz always has Kari's back and she was the only one who saw through Charlie's charm to the smarm underneath. Suz knows how and when to joke Kari out of her doldrums. Even Angus, whatever he is to Kari, unofficial boyfriend?, is supportive. I did not understand Kari's jealously over Angus going to lunch with another woman. They're not even really dating and not exclusive. It's just lunch at the diner in full view of everyone in town. He would know the gossip would get back to Kari. The town gossips drive me crazy. They play "telephone" and usually get the facts distorted. Many people believe Kari is a murderer and won't have anything to do with her. Nasty, petty, small-minded people drive me crazy. At least the diner waitress, Cookie, believes Kari is innocent and that could go a long way towards winning over everyone else.
Who IS the blond lady? I suspect she's Charlie's latest ex-girlfriend or current girlfriend or wannabe girlfriend stalking him. He seems to know her even though he says only from the hotel.
There are only two suspects. One would be motivated by money/greed to kill Charlie and the other has a personal reason.
Sheriff Richardson was fair in the previous book when all clues pointed to Suz but in this book he's back to being ridiculously unfair. The anonymous tip was SO completely stupid! Come on! Who would even know that information other than the murderer? Richardson should be better than that.
I'm not sure if this is the end of the road for the series. I'd read another one but I wouldn't be devastated if it's over after only 3 books.
I like this series well enough. I wish there was more about the shelter than cleaning up. I want to get to know the adoptable pets and even the shelter mascots. I also want to see more of Fred and the other cats besides Queenie. Queenie is a little too unbelievable to me. If she could talk she would have solved the whole mystery right away. Kari should pay more attention to Queenie's clues. I did and figured out when the poison was administered. I also figured out who did it because there are only two suspects besides Kari and any number of unnamed characters. (I ruled out all the series regulars). It was pretty obvious. I thought though that there was going to be a twist to the motive. I didn't have that one entirely figured out. It came as a great disappointment when all was revealed. I just didn't like who and why. Even if you're aiming your book at middle schoolers and up, try to at least write it more complicated than that. I'm pretty sure 13-year-olds could figure this out too.
After three books I've gotten to know the characters a bit and would say Kari is the least fleshed out. Here we get to know her better as she reveals details of her relationship with Charlie. She's grown up a lot since then and is in a more mature, better space. She knows what she does NOT want in her personal relationships and is better able to stand up for herself. I think winning the lottery was a wonderful thing for her personal growth. She seemed kind of sad and lonely before, the type of person someone like Charlie could prey on. He was truly an awful person. I'm sure he was a narcissist. Unused to and unable to hear the word "no", Charlie manipulated facts, told himself lies and shared those lies with others as the truth, damaging Kari's reputation in the process. Charlie's plan is actually not a bad one, however, it's not logistical to move the shelter, especially not after they just fixed it up! What would happen to the animals? He never bothers to ask Kari what she wants, he thinks he can persuade her with his charm. Yuck. What a loser. Everything else he does is so completely horrendous that I'm not surprised he ended up dead. Who wouldn't want to kill him?
Kari has great friends now who are willing to stand behind her 100% AND they love animals and rescuing animals so they won't back down when threatened. Sara is as efficient as always. She knows everyone and I think Kari needs to listen to Sara more often. Call that lawyer! Sara may be a tough teacher but sometimes that comes in handy when standing up to bullies like Charlie. Even Bryn likes Kari now and even if she didn't, she'd fight hard for the animals. Suz always has Kari's back and she was the only one who saw through Charlie's charm to the smarm underneath. Suz knows how and when to joke Kari out of her doldrums. Even Angus, whatever he is to Kari, unofficial boyfriend?, is supportive. I did not understand Kari's jealously over Angus going to lunch with another woman. They're not even really dating and not exclusive. It's just lunch at the diner in full view of everyone in town. He would know the gossip would get back to Kari. The town gossips drive me crazy. They play "telephone" and usually get the facts distorted. Many people believe Kari is a murderer and won't have anything to do with her. Nasty, petty, small-minded people drive me crazy. At least the diner waitress, Cookie, believes Kari is innocent and that could go a long way towards winning over everyone else.
Who IS the blond lady? I suspect she's Charlie's latest ex-girlfriend or current girlfriend or wannabe girlfriend stalking him. He seems to know her even though he says only from the hotel.
There are only two suspects. One would be motivated by money/greed to kill Charlie and the other has a personal reason.
Sheriff Richardson was fair in the previous book when all clues pointed to Suz but in this book he's back to being ridiculously unfair. The anonymous tip was SO completely stupid! Come on! Who would even know that information other than the murderer? Richardson should be better than that.
I'm not sure if this is the end of the road for the series. I'd read another one but I wouldn't be devastated if it's over after only 3 books.
April 10, 2022
Kari is the new owner of the Serenity Animal Sanctuary. Her ex-husband shows up claiming they are still married and he wants her property. She must find out if they are really still married and how to stop him from destroying the sanctuary.
The actions of the husband, Charlie, really made me angry. The nerve he had in demanding Kari’s land and business made me instantly hate him. He is a greedy sociopath.
Overall good book and satisfying ending.
I received a free copy from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for my honest opinion.
The actions of the husband, Charlie, really made me angry. The nerve he had in demanding Kari’s land and business made me instantly hate him. He is a greedy sociopath.
Overall good book and satisfying ending.
I received a free copy from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for my honest opinion.
June 13, 2023
3.5 stars
This is probably the last book of the Catskills Pet Rescue series - since the author said the publisher wouldn't continue unless sales were better. So, I will treat this as the final one.
It was mostly good - the victim here was . There were a number of revelations about that marriage - including .
BUT, at the same time, because of the victim's identity, there were not many potential murderers presented. So it was quite straightforward conclusion, not too much red herrings in this one. Oh, and Queenie the Kitten wasn't around too much as well (boo!).
If this is indeed the final book, it still puts the series in solid ground.
This is probably the last book of the Catskills Pet Rescue series - since the author said the publisher wouldn't continue unless sales were better. So, I will treat this as the final one.
It was mostly good - the victim here was . There were a number of revelations about that marriage - including .
BUT, at the same time, because of the victim's identity, there were not many potential murderers presented. So it was quite straightforward conclusion, not too much red herrings in this one. Oh, and Queenie the Kitten wasn't around too much as well (boo!).
If this is indeed the final book, it still puts the series in solid ground.
October 15, 2022
Totally enjoyable fun mystery.
May 9, 2022
When an ex appears with horrendous plans — plans that would end the entire mystery series, it's obvious the ex will end up dead. Given how he was described by Kari and how he acted in the few chapters he was alive, I was fairly certain how he'd die, where the crime would take place, and who would do it and why they'd do it. It took a while though to learn the identity of the who.
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November 6, 2022
The final book in the series. Or at least the last one written so far. Kari is looking forward to enjoying October in her favorite town when her ex husband Charlie shows up with flowers and informs her that they are still married. She swears that can’t be and she knows she filed papers but can’t seem to find the declared divorce paperwork. She swears Charlie came to town for her lottery money but soon discovers that he has plans of starting glamping where her rescue currently is. Kari says absolutely not but agrees to meet and discuss things with him hoping she can get him to agree to just take some money and leave. When she calls the county office they also declare not being able to find her divorce records making her second guess whether she filed or not and start to make her worried on the welfare of the shelter. Charlie tries to convince Kari that since they are still married that they should stay together and start this glamping together. Kari starts noticing a blond named Tanya in town around the same time Charlie comes to town and starts to think something is up with her. Charlie comes over to have brunch with Kari the night after octoberfest but apologizes for not feeling well and leaves before eating. That’s when she finds out he died that afternoon by poison of a mushroom. Kari is instantly the first and most promising suspect so she sets out to find yet another murderer. Charlie doesn’t like mushrooms so she knew he didn’t eat it voluntarily. That’s when Kari finds out the cute blonde had been spotted out to eat with her boyfriend Angus and she starts to worry that he can’t take the pressure of her ex husband being in town but she soon finds out he was just doing some investigating with her because he thought she was suspicious. One of the people that Charlie had made the contract with shows up and starts surveying the rescue when Kari tells him he isn’t welcome there and he gets angry that he knows she killed Charlie since Charlie had already taken millions from him and agreed that she was on board with the glamping. She pins him as a potential suspect that maybe he already knew Charlie was double crossing him and killed him because of it. While he was being questioned he got furious that Kari wasn’t already arrested and showed paperwork where he had Karis signature stating the go ahead with the glamping that she knew was a forgery. Things start to look bad for Kari when the police get an anonymous call claiming their is evidence in her chicken coop. And then they find a small bottle with the remnants from the mushroom concoction. Before they get DNA results back and can arrest Kari. She found a clue without trying. The neighborhood gossip Nancy who owns the liquor store began to talk about Tanya and how she had came in Saturday morning and bought a bottle of vodka. Which was not only strange because she proudly showed the sheriff her 10 year sober badge but she had swore to be with Angus during the time frame she was spotted at the liquor store. Angus was able to vouch not being with her at that time. And the owner of the B&B where Tanya was staying found a smashed mason jar in a brown paper bag in the bottom of Tanya’s nigjt stand and a missing small lotion bottle like what was found in Karis chicken coop. She had brought Tanya to her house to discuss all of this when the cops came to arrest Kari and she was able to point all directions at Tanya who finally confessed after knowing they found the smashes mason jar. They found that she worked at the county and Charlie had started dating her only to use her. After a few months he asked her to destroy that divorce paperwork so that he could collect half the money and invest so that him and her and her son who had a health condition could all live glamorous lives. For the well being of her son she committed a crime and destroyed the legal documents that Kari and Charlie were divorced. He told her he was going to come to town to convince Kari about the money and then he’d be back but when she went to his house she discovered him forging Karis signature and a whole stack of pictures of her and she got jealous of how pretty Kari was so she came to town to meet her herself. That’s when she noticed Charlie wanting to stay together with Kari and he told Tanya it could possibly be years until he got everything arranged she told him she wouldn’t wait that long and he needed to come back to her and figure it out in email which is when he told her that she was an idiot woman and why would he go back to her and her son when he could have pretty Kari and her millions. So she realized she had been used all along and when she threatened to tell Kari he said he would destroy her life and tell her work what she had done which would mean she would lose her good state health insurance for her son and she would have issues finding another job let alone one with such good health insurance so when she went on the nature walk she noticed the deadly mushroom from her dads tv shows and she picked it. Mixed it into the vodka and then at the October fest she had grabbed a sample off the tray and poured some poison in it and then offered it to Charlie casually saying she only took it off the tray to be polite and he had accidentally eaten a jalepeno popper off of Kari’s tray so when he downed the sample he wouldn’t have noticed anything odd at all. She was going to leave it at that but once Kari started poking around she planted the bottle in the chicken coop and made the anonymous call so that she could leave town and get back to her son. She knew Kari would be the obvious killer because she had the most motive since he wanted to take her rescue but by killing him she also gained his money since they were still legally married. Tanya was arrested and Kari decided with the million dollars she gets from Charlie’s assets she’s going to put them in a trust for Tanya’s son so that he doesn’t suffer from this even more. And therefore the money doesn’t technically benefit Kari. All in all a happy ending and a decent plot twist.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 21, 2022
In Deborah Blake's latest Catskills Pet Rescue Mystery, Claws for Suspicion, Kari Stuart, owner of the local animal shelter, Serenity Sanctuary, is once again the main suspect in a murder. The murder victim? Turns out Kari's ex (?)-husband, Charlie Smith, finds out that Kari won millions off a lottery ticket and since Charlie insists their divorce was never finalized he deserves half of Kari's winnings. When Charlie's body is found and declared a murder all the fuss about the lottery winnings makes Kari the prime suspect. I love the whole premise of this series; the animal sanctuary and how Kari and her friends follow clues to solve murders. I am really looking forward to the next book in the series.
I received an ARC and this is my honest review.
I received an ARC and this is my honest review.
July 5, 2022
Kari is working in Serenity Sanctuary and getting ready for the Octoberfest celebration however her ex-husband decides to arrive unannounced and wants to get into her winnings because she is supposed to be still married to him. She said no that he is an ex-. He basically causes her heartache and keeps being pushy because he wants to sale her property to a business owner. Kari tries to keep ahead of the problem especially when her ex-husband ends up in the hospital and she is still trying to locate the divorce papers she knew she signed and sent back. Has some twists but the characters are really good in this series.
September 7, 2022
This cozy mystery with a hint of the supernatural in the form of tiny kitten Queenie is the latest in the Catskills Pet Rescue series. We meet Kari's ex-husband who is unbelievably out of touch with reality. All the previous characters make an appearance and it's good to see Suz and Brynn getting along so well. I admit these are not my favorite books by this author--just doesn't hit the same feels as the Riders. But they are enjoyable and a comfortable read for an afternoon.
August 14, 2023
4.5 stars. I totally loved this book, which surprised me because though the first book was good, the second one was so boring. Great storyline concerning the horrible ex-husband and terrific ending. Very nicely narrated.
October 25, 2025
"Claws for Suspicion" is book three in a "Catskills Pet Rescue Mystery" series by Deborah Blake. It was a very enjoyable read and right up my alley of the types of books I enjoy. I really enjoyed Deborah's descriptions of things and had no problem imagining them in my head. When Kari's ex shows up wanting money from the lottery winnings that Kari won and saying that they were technically still married because the papers never went through, I had a feeling something was going to happen. Kari was such a joy to read, and her character definitely makes this series worth the read. I read the first two books a couple of years ago and was so happy to re-vist it again with book three.
September 15, 2024
I really enjoyed this cozy mystery. It kept me on my toes and the characters were likable. Although I did have some secondhand anxiety for poor Kari lol.
June 11, 2022
This is the third installment of the Catskill Pet Rescue Mystery series, and I loved it so much! Someone from Kari's past comes to town and creates chaos in her life and at the Serenity Sanctuary. I really enjoyed the mystery and trying to figure out the murderer. It was well plotted and well paced, and I thought it wrapped up nicely. As usual, the animals, especially Queenie, were delightful, and I love Kari's friends in her community. I cannot wait for the next one!
Thank you to NetGalley and Berkley Books for providing an eARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
Thank you to NetGalley and Berkley Books for providing an eARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
May 4, 2022
It’s been a few months since Kari bought the animal rescue shelter; most of the repairs are done and things are going smoothly. That is until Kari’s ex shows up telling her they are still married and he deserves half of her lottery winnings. But when Charlie dies under mysterious circumstances, things go from bad to worse when the sheriff names Kari the primary suspect.
I am really enjoying the Catskills Pet Rescue mysteries. The stories follow the generous and kindhearted Kari as she gets her life together in her hometown after living away for a while. The author continues to develop Kari’s strengths, giving her a backbone while keeping her sweet and kind. I love the friendships, both her long-term friend Suz, but also the new friends that are becoming her found-family. When Kari is accused of murdering her ex-husband, these friends stand by her side, even as the small townsfolk point fingers and gossip. I am also enjoying her slow-burn romance with the local vet, Angus. Their bonds solidify as the keep an open dialogue.
As for the murder mystery, it is exciting and well planned, and even though I completed guessed the who and why from almost the start, I still loved it. The author pens a lovely story, filled with vivid details and descriptions. Her storyline is tight. I admire the sheriff who is fair and honest. I just hope the next story doesn’t put Kari (or her close friends) in the center of the suspect pool.
Narration: The story is shared via the third person voice of Kari. The narrator has a calm, feminine voice which doubles as Kari’s dialogue voice. I found her mature tone well suited for Kari. Ms. Jennings really brings Kari to life, adding noticeable feelings into the performance of the empathetic character. The narrator alters the voices for each supporting character during dialogue, making each unique. All adjustments are appropriate to gender, age, and background. Overall, Ms. Jennings performs the story wonderfully, keeping me engaged and interested.
In the end, Claws for Suspicion is a wonderful, entertaining story. The author is creating a cast of characters that I enjoy spending time with and can’t wait to get more of!
My Ratings:
Story: A-
Narration: A-
Originally posted at That's What I'm Talking About
Review copy provided by publisher
I am really enjoying the Catskills Pet Rescue mysteries. The stories follow the generous and kindhearted Kari as she gets her life together in her hometown after living away for a while. The author continues to develop Kari’s strengths, giving her a backbone while keeping her sweet and kind. I love the friendships, both her long-term friend Suz, but also the new friends that are becoming her found-family. When Kari is accused of murdering her ex-husband, these friends stand by her side, even as the small townsfolk point fingers and gossip. I am also enjoying her slow-burn romance with the local vet, Angus. Their bonds solidify as the keep an open dialogue.
As for the murder mystery, it is exciting and well planned, and even though I completed guessed the who and why from almost the start, I still loved it. The author pens a lovely story, filled with vivid details and descriptions. Her storyline is tight. I admire the sheriff who is fair and honest. I just hope the next story doesn’t put Kari (or her close friends) in the center of the suspect pool.
Narration: The story is shared via the third person voice of Kari. The narrator has a calm, feminine voice which doubles as Kari’s dialogue voice. I found her mature tone well suited for Kari. Ms. Jennings really brings Kari to life, adding noticeable feelings into the performance of the empathetic character. The narrator alters the voices for each supporting character during dialogue, making each unique. All adjustments are appropriate to gender, age, and background. Overall, Ms. Jennings performs the story wonderfully, keeping me engaged and interested.
In the end, Claws for Suspicion is a wonderful, entertaining story. The author is creating a cast of characters that I enjoy spending time with and can’t wait to get more of!
My Ratings:
Story: A-
Narration: A-
Originally posted at That's What I'm Talking About
Review copy provided by publisher
April 14, 2022
[I received a free electronic review copy of this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.]
4 stars - Great! Might re-read.
This was a fun, start-to-finish read for me. I figured out most of the mystery early on, but the author still had a fun surprise for me later in the book. And I love the characters and setting in this series, so it was a delight to read. This is a series to stick with for me!
4 stars - Great! Might re-read.
This was a fun, start-to-finish read for me. I figured out most of the mystery early on, but the author still had a fun surprise for me later in the book. And I love the characters and setting in this series, so it was a delight to read. This is a series to stick with for me!
January 17, 2022
Number three in the Catskills Pet Rescue series sees Kari's ex husband returning and putting her beloved Serenity Sanctuary in danger. Kari left her ex in her rearview mirror four years ago and good riddance. But now he's back and saying that she never signed the divorce papers, so they are, in fact, still married. Oh, and half that lottery win? It belongs to him. Blake has crafted a fun cozy series full of great characters and fantastically twisty mysteries.
September 23, 2021
Absolutely delightful cozy mystery. The
Characters are relatable and I really wanted everything to work out for them. I love the animal rescue setting and the mystery was engaging. Would definitely recommend!
Characters are relatable and I really wanted everything to work out for them. I love the animal rescue setting and the mystery was engaging. Would definitely recommend!
June 2, 2022
https://openbooksociety.com/article/c...
Brought to you by OBS Reviewer Jeanie
This is the best novel in the series so far! Early autumn in New York’s Catskill Mountains sounds like a visit I would enjoy. The town is preparing for Oktoberfest at a local microbrewery where there will be something for everyone who attends. Characterization is excellent; our protagonist and her friends are very likable, and I get to know them a little better with each visit. Who can resist Kari’s pets, especially Queenie, and the pets at the shelter? This well written, intriguing mystery opens, however, with one of the worst dreams come true for many divorced women.
Kari is a young woman I admire and in some ways envy. She is living a hard-working dream since winning a huge lottery several months ago. She purchased the Serenity Sanctuary, a no-kill animal shelter that was in desperate need of funds to keep it open and serious repairs and updating. Kari put a tremendous amount of time and money into making it a modern, safe, roomy place to care for pets while they await their fur-ever home. She was able to keep the volunteers, including Sara, a retired high school teacher, and Bryn, who she could hire part time around her college classes.
It was not one of the happiest moments of Kari’s life to hear Charlie, her ex-husband, when he came in to see her, flowers in hand. She had fallen for his smooth talking once, and she refuses to repeat her mistakes. He came when he learned their divorce had not been finalized a few years earlier, that a document Kari was supposed to sign and return to the clerk’s office was not received. They are still legally married despite having been to court and hearing the judge’s decree. Since they are still married, there is the little matter of her lottery winnings. His attorney said he is entitled to half of it. He would be more than happy to take the sanctuary off her hands if she doesn’t have enough money in the bank to satisfy his demands. Charlie also wants her to come back to him and be a lady of leisure.
The plan that he and a partner have concocted for the property the sanctuary sits on is to turn it into a glamping resort. Charlie and Kari could just watch “their” money multiply, and he will “help” her wisely use the rest of her winnings. As her husband, he claims he has that right. Kari, however, is not leaving the sanctuary, nor is she giving him the first place she has ever felt safe, the place that has given her purpose and meaning. Telling Angus, the handsome vet she has been dating, about Charlie’s news, might not be easy. Then, when a murder takes place and Kari is at the top of the sheriff’s suspect list, everything changes.
The characters are well-developed; the author brings each one to life through realistic dialog and behavior. I like Kari and Sara best, as well as Kari’s adorable kitten, Queenie. Charlie is larger than life, and like Kari, I would prefer to see as little of him as possible. After telling half the town they are still married, he cost her a few friends who think she has been living a lie. One of the things I love about most of the characters is their love for companion animals and willingness to help the ones in the sanctuary. It is what makes the series sing.
Kari has a vested interest in finding out who the killer is. She had been accused of murder in the past, as had bestie Suz. They proved everyone wrong and helped find the killers who set up her and her Suz. Now if she could just refute what Charlie has told everyone and help find another killer, everything else will work its way out. Plot twists served to reveal more possible suspects; this armchair sleuth was kept guessing throughout. The killer was somewhat of a surprise even though still on my “suspect list”. The ending was more than satisfactory, and I look forward to the next adventure at the Serenity Sanctuary. I highly recommend this, and the earlier books in the series!
Brought to you by OBS Reviewer Jeanie
This is the best novel in the series so far! Early autumn in New York’s Catskill Mountains sounds like a visit I would enjoy. The town is preparing for Oktoberfest at a local microbrewery where there will be something for everyone who attends. Characterization is excellent; our protagonist and her friends are very likable, and I get to know them a little better with each visit. Who can resist Kari’s pets, especially Queenie, and the pets at the shelter? This well written, intriguing mystery opens, however, with one of the worst dreams come true for many divorced women.
Kari is a young woman I admire and in some ways envy. She is living a hard-working dream since winning a huge lottery several months ago. She purchased the Serenity Sanctuary, a no-kill animal shelter that was in desperate need of funds to keep it open and serious repairs and updating. Kari put a tremendous amount of time and money into making it a modern, safe, roomy place to care for pets while they await their fur-ever home. She was able to keep the volunteers, including Sara, a retired high school teacher, and Bryn, who she could hire part time around her college classes.
It was not one of the happiest moments of Kari’s life to hear Charlie, her ex-husband, when he came in to see her, flowers in hand. She had fallen for his smooth talking once, and she refuses to repeat her mistakes. He came when he learned their divorce had not been finalized a few years earlier, that a document Kari was supposed to sign and return to the clerk’s office was not received. They are still legally married despite having been to court and hearing the judge’s decree. Since they are still married, there is the little matter of her lottery winnings. His attorney said he is entitled to half of it. He would be more than happy to take the sanctuary off her hands if she doesn’t have enough money in the bank to satisfy his demands. Charlie also wants her to come back to him and be a lady of leisure.
The plan that he and a partner have concocted for the property the sanctuary sits on is to turn it into a glamping resort. Charlie and Kari could just watch “their” money multiply, and he will “help” her wisely use the rest of her winnings. As her husband, he claims he has that right. Kari, however, is not leaving the sanctuary, nor is she giving him the first place she has ever felt safe, the place that has given her purpose and meaning. Telling Angus, the handsome vet she has been dating, about Charlie’s news, might not be easy. Then, when a murder takes place and Kari is at the top of the sheriff’s suspect list, everything changes.
The characters are well-developed; the author brings each one to life through realistic dialog and behavior. I like Kari and Sara best, as well as Kari’s adorable kitten, Queenie. Charlie is larger than life, and like Kari, I would prefer to see as little of him as possible. After telling half the town they are still married, he cost her a few friends who think she has been living a lie. One of the things I love about most of the characters is their love for companion animals and willingness to help the ones in the sanctuary. It is what makes the series sing.
Kari has a vested interest in finding out who the killer is. She had been accused of murder in the past, as had bestie Suz. They proved everyone wrong and helped find the killers who set up her and her Suz. Now if she could just refute what Charlie has told everyone and help find another killer, everything else will work its way out. Plot twists served to reveal more possible suspects; this armchair sleuth was kept guessing throughout. The killer was somewhat of a surprise even though still on my “suspect list”. The ending was more than satisfactory, and I look forward to the next adventure at the Serenity Sanctuary. I highly recommend this, and the earlier books in the series!
April 7, 2023
Kari is settling into her role as owner of the Serenity Sanctuary, and she's enjoying the new life she built for herself. She has a solid circle of friends, a potential new romantic interest, and a purpose in helping rescue and rehome animals. Kari's own serenity is shattered, however, when her ex-husband, Charlie, comes to town claiming their divorce paperwork was never officially filed and that he's now entitled to half of her lottery winnings. Charlie has big plans for the property where the animal shelter is located, and he blithely assumes that Kari will fall over herself to get back together with him. Each time Kari tries to set him straight, he bulldozes over her protests and carries on, just like when they were married. When Charlie dies of a mysterious illness and it's determined he was poisoned, Kari finds herself atop the list of suspects. She didn't kill him, but Kari is determined to find out who did, if only for her own peace of mind.
The first book in this series had someone posing a threat to the animal shelter, getting murdered, and suspicion being cast on Kari for having the strongest motive. In that respect, this seemed like too much of a rehash of the initial plot. Zero points for originality. That being said, the plot was taut and twisty, characters were portrayed well, including Charlie the Terrible. I wanted to murder him myself. Ass. I figured things out about midway through the book, although the motive escaped me until the end. And now for the big plot hole: SPOILER! Charlie claimed he'd contacted the county clerk's office in the county where they were (allegedly) divorced, which is when he (allegedly) learned that the divorce was never formally filed. Kari called that same county clerk's office and was told there was no record of the divorce. The problem is, divorces are filed with the circuit clerk's office, not the county clerk. County clerks issue marriage licenses; circuit clerks (the 'clerks of courts') handle divorces. Womp womp! Authors, please do your research. A quick phone call to your friendly local county clerk's office would have let you know that you needed to reference the circuit clerk in your story. That, and wouldn't the lawyer involved have retained a copy of the divorce decree in his/her office?
The story was interesting and kept my attention. I like Kari and the setting of the animal shelter. This was heading for a solid four-star rating, but I'm deducting a star for the recycled plot and the egregious error it contained. Three stars.
The first book in this series had someone posing a threat to the animal shelter, getting murdered, and suspicion being cast on Kari for having the strongest motive. In that respect, this seemed like too much of a rehash of the initial plot. Zero points for originality. That being said, the plot was taut and twisty, characters were portrayed well, including Charlie the Terrible. I wanted to murder him myself. Ass. I figured things out about midway through the book, although the motive escaped me until the end. And now for the big plot hole: SPOILER! Charlie claimed he'd contacted the county clerk's office in the county where they were (allegedly) divorced, which is when he (allegedly) learned that the divorce was never formally filed. Kari called that same county clerk's office and was told there was no record of the divorce. The problem is, divorces are filed with the circuit clerk's office, not the county clerk. County clerks issue marriage licenses; circuit clerks (the 'clerks of courts') handle divorces. Womp womp! Authors, please do your research. A quick phone call to your friendly local county clerk's office would have let you know that you needed to reference the circuit clerk in your story. That, and wouldn't the lawyer involved have retained a copy of the divorce decree in his/her office?
The story was interesting and kept my attention. I like Kari and the setting of the animal shelter. This was heading for a solid four-star rating, but I'm deducting a star for the recycled plot and the egregious error it contained. Three stars.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 9, 2025
This rating makes me very sad. The first book in this series was a 5 star read and I was sure this would be a favorite series. Any character that would use the millions they won in the lottery to buy and refurbish a pet rescue was a real hero for me. And then she solved a mystery in a way that was relatively free of ridiculous plot twists and that required real courage. She has a best friend (always suspicious of characters who have no friends) and a kitten (so perfect in every way). I also enjoyed book 2 quite a bit (4 stars). And now this.
Kari Stuart is surprised by a visit from her ex-husband who claims she never filed her final paperwork and consequently their divorce was never finalized. Now he is claiming half of her lottery winnings but he'll settle for her pet rescue and the land it sits on with its prime location along a lake in the Catskills. Kari loudly proclaims, "Over my dead body! Or even better, over yours!" In front of lots of witnesses. Stupid, but typical fare in a cozy. My real problem is that Kari's personality from the first two books is completely gone. Now she is too stupid to live. She can't remember if she filed her divorce papers. He was abusive during their marriage but she pretends to go along with what he wants, hoping he'll settle for less than half of her winnings. And even though Sara, one of the rescue employees and one of the only reasonable people in the entire book, keeps telling her to get a divorce attorney--and later a defense attorney--she never does! Instead she just kind of hopes for the best from her narcissist of an ex. Yep, that will work out well.
When the ex is poisoned, the Sheriff suspects Kari from the beginning. Even though he suspected her of a previous murder which she solved and suspected her friend of murder which she also solved, the Sheriff was a good law enforcement officer in the previous books. Here he is ridiculous. He suspects her from the beginning, but still lets her sit in on the interview of key witnesses. When he receives an anonymous tip that leads to the discovery of evidence hidden in Kari's hen house -- he accepts it as great evidence. Gee, I guess there's no chance that the murderer planted the evidence in a hen house completely open to any passerby. This book frustrated me the entire way through. It's one thing to be boring but to completely change the personality of key characters and make the murderer borders on unforgivable in a cozy series.
Kari Stuart is surprised by a visit from her ex-husband who claims she never filed her final paperwork and consequently their divorce was never finalized. Now he is claiming half of her lottery winnings but he'll settle for her pet rescue and the land it sits on with its prime location along a lake in the Catskills. Kari loudly proclaims, "Over my dead body! Or even better, over yours!" In front of lots of witnesses. Stupid, but typical fare in a cozy. My real problem is that Kari's personality from the first two books is completely gone. Now she is too stupid to live. She can't remember if she filed her divorce papers. He was abusive during their marriage but she pretends to go along with what he wants, hoping he'll settle for less than half of her winnings. And even though Sara, one of the rescue employees and one of the only reasonable people in the entire book, keeps telling her to get a divorce attorney--and later a defense attorney--she never does! Instead she just kind of hopes for the best from her narcissist of an ex. Yep, that will work out well.
When the ex is poisoned, the Sheriff suspects Kari from the beginning. Even though he suspected her of a previous murder which she solved and suspected her friend of murder which she also solved, the Sheriff was a good law enforcement officer in the previous books. Here he is ridiculous. He suspects her from the beginning, but still lets her sit in on the interview of key witnesses. When he receives an anonymous tip that leads to the discovery of evidence hidden in Kari's hen house -- he accepts it as great evidence. Gee, I guess there's no chance that the murderer planted the evidence in a hen house completely open to any passerby. This book frustrated me the entire way through. It's one thing to be boring but to completely change the personality of key characters and make the murderer borders on unforgivable in a cozy series.
December 22, 2022
Claws For Suspicion
A Catskills Pet Rescue, Book #3
Deborah Blake
5 Stars
Synopsis:
When someone from her past comes to town to cause trouble, Kari Stuart and her sassy kitten Queenie will have to work hard to protect the Serenity Sanctuary in this new Catskills Pet Rescue Mystery.
Kari Stuart is finally starting to relax into her role as the new owner of the Serenity Sanctuary and is looking forward to the various fun autumn activities in the beautiful Catskills town of Lakeview, like the annual Oktoberfest celebration. It’s time for friends and quality bonding with handsome vet Angus McCoy. Until the unexpected arrival of her unpleasant ex-husband, Charlie Smith.
He comes bearing a shocking revelation—the paperwork on their divorce never went through, and they are still married. Worse yet, he thinks this entitles him to half of her lottery winnings—although he'll happily take partial ownership of the sanctuary instead. Kari isn’t sure if he’s telling the truth, or if it’s just another one of Charlie’s lies.
But things go from bad to worse when an unexpected death makes Kari the main suspect in a murder investigation. Will she and Queenie be able to find the real killer and keep the home they’ve built at the sanctuary safe, or is their string of luck finally tapped out? (Amazon)
Review:
The characters are well rounded and well developed. When Kari’s ex-husband shows up at the sanctuary, she knows that will only mean trouble. He claims that their divorce was never finalized and that they are still married. When Charlie is found dead Kari is a person of interest and she must find the real culprit to prove her innocence.
The author is very talented in her descriptions and they allowed me to see everything more clearly in my mind’s eye. The writing style flows smoothly and the book is an easy read. The mystery was well plotted and there were enough clues to sift through and suspects to consider.
I would highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a well crafted cozy mystery. I am waiting patiently for the next book in the series.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book provided by the publisher, Berkley Publishing , and NetGalley, which I greatly appreciate.
A Catskills Pet Rescue, Book #3
Deborah Blake
5 Stars
Synopsis:
When someone from her past comes to town to cause trouble, Kari Stuart and her sassy kitten Queenie will have to work hard to protect the Serenity Sanctuary in this new Catskills Pet Rescue Mystery.
Kari Stuart is finally starting to relax into her role as the new owner of the Serenity Sanctuary and is looking forward to the various fun autumn activities in the beautiful Catskills town of Lakeview, like the annual Oktoberfest celebration. It’s time for friends and quality bonding with handsome vet Angus McCoy. Until the unexpected arrival of her unpleasant ex-husband, Charlie Smith.
He comes bearing a shocking revelation—the paperwork on their divorce never went through, and they are still married. Worse yet, he thinks this entitles him to half of her lottery winnings—although he'll happily take partial ownership of the sanctuary instead. Kari isn’t sure if he’s telling the truth, or if it’s just another one of Charlie’s lies.
But things go from bad to worse when an unexpected death makes Kari the main suspect in a murder investigation. Will she and Queenie be able to find the real killer and keep the home they’ve built at the sanctuary safe, or is their string of luck finally tapped out? (Amazon)
Review:
The characters are well rounded and well developed. When Kari’s ex-husband shows up at the sanctuary, she knows that will only mean trouble. He claims that their divorce was never finalized and that they are still married. When Charlie is found dead Kari is a person of interest and she must find the real culprit to prove her innocence.
The author is very talented in her descriptions and they allowed me to see everything more clearly in my mind’s eye. The writing style flows smoothly and the book is an easy read. The mystery was well plotted and there were enough clues to sift through and suspects to consider.
I would highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a well crafted cozy mystery. I am waiting patiently for the next book in the series.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book provided by the publisher, Berkley Publishing , and NetGalley, which I greatly appreciate.
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