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Theodore: The Neighbour's Cat #1
Theodore The Neighbour's Cat
My roommate is a serial killer.
And I have been powerless to stop him because I... am a cat.
Don’t get me wrong, Dean has never been cruel to me. He provides me with shelter, toys, and plenty of affection. But I have seen his dark side, his brutal treatment of women, and I can’t bear to watch anyone else get hurt.
Jane from next door is attractive for a human, not to mention being incredibly kind. That kindness may get her killed. I’ve seen how Dean looks at her, I know what he’s plotting. In his mind, she’s his for the taking. I wasn’t able to save the others, but I’m not ready to give up. One way or another, I have to figure out how to communicate to Jane that she’s in danger.
Can I find a way to warn her in time? Or will she become just another name on his growing list of victims?
And I have been powerless to stop him because I... am a cat.
Don’t get me wrong, Dean has never been cruel to me. He provides me with shelter, toys, and plenty of affection. But I have seen his dark side, his brutal treatment of women, and I can’t bear to watch anyone else get hurt.
Jane from next door is attractive for a human, not to mention being incredibly kind. That kindness may get her killed. I’ve seen how Dean looks at her, I know what he’s plotting. In his mind, she’s his for the taking. I wasn’t able to save the others, but I’m not ready to give up. One way or another, I have to figure out how to communicate to Jane that she’s in danger.
Can I find a way to warn her in time? Or will she become just another name on his growing list of victims?
276 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 1, 2021
287 people are currently reading
725 people want to read
About the author
J.S. Ellis
30 books168 followersJ.S Ellis is a thriller author. She has a degree in creative writing, English literature, and digital marketing. She lives in Malta with her fiancé and their fur baby Eloise. When she’s not writing or reading, she’s either cooking, eating cheese and chocolate, or listening to good music and enjoying a glass of wine or two.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 155 reviews
October 10, 2025
3.75
Theodore The Neighbor’s Cat is the first of (currently) six novellas about a crime solving Tuxedo Cat.
Abandoned as a helpless kitten on a rainy London night, he was rescued by a Serial Killer named Dean, who fortunately for Theodore, would never hurt children, the elderly or animals.
Women, are not as lucky.
They have relocated to Malta after the murder of a colleague, and Theodore is actually leading quite the pampered life until he realizes that Dean has “elected” his new target-a neighbor across from them named Jane, who has always been kind to Theodore.
Theodore may not have been able to “save” Dean’s past Victims but he is determined to somehow help Jane. Will he succeed?
Never underestimate a determined cat! 🐈⬛
The novella is told from the alternating POV’s of Theodore and Dean.
I have been saving this for Spooky Season since I came across it earlier in the year and I may read another installment or two. Looking forward to seeing what trouble Theodore will get his paws 🐾 into next!
AVAILABLE NOW!
Theodore The Neighbor’s Cat is the first of (currently) six novellas about a crime solving Tuxedo Cat.
Abandoned as a helpless kitten on a rainy London night, he was rescued by a Serial Killer named Dean, who fortunately for Theodore, would never hurt children, the elderly or animals.
Women, are not as lucky.
They have relocated to Malta after the murder of a colleague, and Theodore is actually leading quite the pampered life until he realizes that Dean has “elected” his new target-a neighbor across from them named Jane, who has always been kind to Theodore.
Theodore may not have been able to “save” Dean’s past Victims but he is determined to somehow help Jane. Will he succeed?
Never underestimate a determined cat! 🐈⬛
The novella is told from the alternating POV’s of Theodore and Dean.
I have been saving this for Spooky Season since I came across it earlier in the year and I may read another installment or two. Looking forward to seeing what trouble Theodore will get his paws 🐾 into next!
AVAILABLE NOW!
August 28, 2024
OMG! Theodore is adorable and smart! I love him. As a cat lover myself, I found this book fun and it made me smile a lot. I also appreciate the cat facts at the end of every chapter.
I liked every character (especially the cat). The villain is interesting—he’s calculating, charming, and deathly handsome. No woman could ever resist his charms—too bad for them.
The only thing that bothered me is Jane acting like a schoolgirl crushing on her next-door neighbor just a few days after her husband was murdered. Like, seriously? What happened to “he was my rock, my moon, and my stars?” Annoying.
This is fun. I read this curled up in bed with my cat purring on my neck. Cozy.
I liked every character (especially the cat). The villain is interesting—he’s calculating, charming, and deathly handsome. No woman could ever resist his charms—too bad for them.
The only thing that bothered me is Jane acting like a schoolgirl crushing on her next-door neighbor just a few days after her husband was murdered. Like, seriously? What happened to “he was my rock, my moon, and my stars?” Annoying.
This is fun. I read this curled up in bed with my cat purring on my neck. Cozy.
June 20, 2021
Loved this short novel about a serial-killer, Dean & his tuxedo cat, Theodore who's out to stop him! Recommend & 4 stars
October 17, 2025
I loved this book.
Lovable characters, all of them.
An engrossing storyline.
Two POVs: Theodore and Dean, alternating.
And the"Cat fact" at the end of each chapter was a nice and a very interesting touch, making me remember all the lovely cats that enriched my life with their presence through so many years!
Theodore is a tuxedo cat who lives with Dean, a serial killer who hurts women.
He treats him very well, talks to him, considers him his confident, and if it wasn't for Dean finding him 5 years ago when he was 2 months old and left to die in a closed box in the street, he wouldn't be here now.
No matter what Dean is, he's Theodore's human, he loves him and knows Dean would never hurt him, but he wished he had been able to help the 4 women that were killed since he's with him.
They recently moved from England to Malta leaving behind the bad weather and other issues.
Dean is a very handsome, tall, fit, kind, thoughtfull man, hiding inside him his true self.
He kills because he has to and also to see if he can get away with it. Until know he has.
His kills always look like accidents.
Theodore is the only living thing who makes him feel something close to emotions, the only thing in the world that keeps the little humanity he has left and he's the only friend!
He comes from a stable backgroung, had a normal upbringing, so he thinks he was born with a defect.
He knows he's a monster but he would never hurt an animal, a children or old people.
He works full time as a freelance illustrator and part-time as a killer!
He was married, had girlfriends, but he never had the urge to kill them.
He loves women and loves the sex.
He's criteria is dark hair, successful careers, with no companions, not many friends, and not much presence on social media.
And he just found out his next target across the street, Jane a crime writer, but married to Matthew.
He starts his minutiously research on Jane 's life, stoles her phone, and knowing her husband suffers from depression he is soon out of the picture, Matthew 's death ruled as a suicide.
Theodore wants to warn her but doesn't know how.
After Matthew died and Jane returns home, she lets him inside her apartment and Dean uses him to get closer to her. And he hates it!
She's grieving, but slowly Dean gets close to her, takes her out to dinner, she starts spending a lot of time in his apartment, falling completely for him like a fly in a spiderweb.
Jane is writing a new novel and has been having a lot of back pains and Dean tells her it was so much easier to take care of her if she stayed, and reluctantly she agrees, but instead of giving her the pain killers he gives her sleeping pills to knock her out so he can reach her new phone after she blocked the one he stole.
There he learns she believes Matthew was murdered, reads her messages, and finds out the researches she did online about him, even talking to one of the managers of a company he worked for.
One day she awakes and can't believe Dean let her sleep so many hours when she has a deadline and now she's behind schedule.
They argue and she leaves, returning home only weeks after when the book is published, never phoning or messaging to him.
And Theodore can see her destiny is already sealed, from what happened with the previous women.
Will Theodore be able to direct her to where the evidences, of what Dean really is, are hidden and give her the chance to escape her fate?
Dean never leaves the apartment when she's there.
Will he ever leave it and stay out time enough so he could try?
Lovable characters, all of them.
An engrossing storyline.
Two POVs: Theodore and Dean, alternating.
And the"Cat fact" at the end of each chapter was a nice and a very interesting touch, making me remember all the lovely cats that enriched my life with their presence through so many years!
Theodore is a tuxedo cat who lives with Dean, a serial killer who hurts women.
He treats him very well, talks to him, considers him his confident, and if it wasn't for Dean finding him 5 years ago when he was 2 months old and left to die in a closed box in the street, he wouldn't be here now.
No matter what Dean is, he's Theodore's human, he loves him and knows Dean would never hurt him, but he wished he had been able to help the 4 women that were killed since he's with him.
They recently moved from England to Malta leaving behind the bad weather and other issues.
Dean is a very handsome, tall, fit, kind, thoughtfull man, hiding inside him his true self.
He kills because he has to and also to see if he can get away with it. Until know he has.
His kills always look like accidents.
Theodore is the only living thing who makes him feel something close to emotions, the only thing in the world that keeps the little humanity he has left and he's the only friend!
He comes from a stable backgroung, had a normal upbringing, so he thinks he was born with a defect.
He knows he's a monster but he would never hurt an animal, a children or old people.
He works full time as a freelance illustrator and part-time as a killer!
He was married, had girlfriends, but he never had the urge to kill them.
He loves women and loves the sex.
He's criteria is dark hair, successful careers, with no companions, not many friends, and not much presence on social media.
And he just found out his next target across the street, Jane a crime writer, but married to Matthew.
He starts his minutiously research on Jane 's life, stoles her phone, and knowing her husband suffers from depression he is soon out of the picture, Matthew 's death ruled as a suicide.
Theodore wants to warn her but doesn't know how.
After Matthew died and Jane returns home, she lets him inside her apartment and Dean uses him to get closer to her. And he hates it!
She's grieving, but slowly Dean gets close to her, takes her out to dinner, she starts spending a lot of time in his apartment, falling completely for him like a fly in a spiderweb.
Jane is writing a new novel and has been having a lot of back pains and Dean tells her it was so much easier to take care of her if she stayed, and reluctantly she agrees, but instead of giving her the pain killers he gives her sleeping pills to knock her out so he can reach her new phone after she blocked the one he stole.
There he learns she believes Matthew was murdered, reads her messages, and finds out the researches she did online about him, even talking to one of the managers of a company he worked for.
One day she awakes and can't believe Dean let her sleep so many hours when she has a deadline and now she's behind schedule.
They argue and she leaves, returning home only weeks after when the book is published, never phoning or messaging to him.
And Theodore can see her destiny is already sealed, from what happened with the previous women.
Will Theodore be able to direct her to where the evidences, of what Dean really is, are hidden and give her the chance to escape her fate?
Dean never leaves the apartment when she's there.
Will he ever leave it and stay out time enough so he could try?
October 20, 2020
I LOVE Theodore! This is a fresh, original mystery told from the perspective of Theodore the cat. What would you do if your owner was a serial killer? I enjoyed this mystery. It was fun and definitely original. Thank you BookSirens for my ARC. I really liked hearing the story from the cat's perspective and would enjoy reading more stories from Theodore's perspective in the future.
April 1, 2025
LOVED this short story! My two favorite things are cats and serial killer thrillers. Follow in Theodore's pawsteps as he walks the line between loving and appreciating his owner, trying to reconcile his owners hobby and trying to stop a serial killer.
A unique new POV for a serial killer thriller. Although a different 'angle', if you've read My Sister the Serial Killer by Oyinkan Braithewaite, you will probably enjoy this. Unless you hate cats.
Cat people will appreciate the humor.
Would love to see more of Theodore! Maybe he can become a consultant to the police🙄🤔
He's such a clever boy.!
A unique new POV for a serial killer thriller. Although a different 'angle', if you've read My Sister the Serial Killer by Oyinkan Braithewaite, you will probably enjoy this. Unless you hate cats.
Cat people will appreciate the humor.
Would love to see more of Theodore! Maybe he can become a consultant to the police🙄🤔
He's such a clever boy.!
October 23, 2020
What if you lived with a serial killer? What if you knew about his crimes and knew who his next victim was supposed to be? What if you desperately wanted to warn her; spare her of this terrible fate? And what if you couldn’t? What if you could only meow… because you’re a cat?
I was extremely excited about reading a book told from the perspective of a serial killer’s cat. I thought it was a brilliant idea and I expected to be in for a ridiculously good time.
It just wasn’t what I had hoped for.
The book is actually told through dual perspectives: the cat and the killer. This still seemed like a great idea to me but the tone of the book didn’t feel right at all. I’ve read and enjoyed books from animals’ perspectives in the past. There is something - an innocence, a quirkiness - that the authors of these previous reads have captured that made those animal narrators so captivating. The voice of Theodore felt very flat. And his voice wasn’t decidedly different than that of his owner’s. I would have enjoyed this more if the author had breathed more life into Theodore’s personality.
The story, itself, was decent. I think this premise had fantastic potential and so much more could have been molded into this. The way the killer managed to get away with murder added some intrigue to it all and I did find this to be suspenseful, especially within the second half.
There are definitely some holes in the story, although I thought they were easier to look past than lackluster tone was. Despite my disappointment with the very thing that lured me into this story, I did find it enjoyable for its thriller aspects. No matter how I may have viewed his voice, I was rooting for Theodore all the way through!
Theodore is currently available for preorder and will be on sale on November 3, 2020.
Thank you to the author and Book Sirens for my review copy. All opinions are my own.
I was extremely excited about reading a book told from the perspective of a serial killer’s cat. I thought it was a brilliant idea and I expected to be in for a ridiculously good time.
It just wasn’t what I had hoped for.
The book is actually told through dual perspectives: the cat and the killer. This still seemed like a great idea to me but the tone of the book didn’t feel right at all. I’ve read and enjoyed books from animals’ perspectives in the past. There is something - an innocence, a quirkiness - that the authors of these previous reads have captured that made those animal narrators so captivating. The voice of Theodore felt very flat. And his voice wasn’t decidedly different than that of his owner’s. I would have enjoyed this more if the author had breathed more life into Theodore’s personality.
The story, itself, was decent. I think this premise had fantastic potential and so much more could have been molded into this. The way the killer managed to get away with murder added some intrigue to it all and I did find this to be suspenseful, especially within the second half.
There are definitely some holes in the story, although I thought they were easier to look past than lackluster tone was. Despite my disappointment with the very thing that lured me into this story, I did find it enjoyable for its thriller aspects. No matter how I may have viewed his voice, I was rooting for Theodore all the way through!
Theodore is currently available for preorder and will be on sale on November 3, 2020.
Thank you to the author and Book Sirens for my review copy. All opinions are my own.
May 3, 2021
I had read this originally when it was a short story and I absolutely adored it. This was just as enjoyable with the addition of those details that may have left you wanting just a bit more at the time.
I had also written this review a good month or so ago when I first finished the book but it has disappeared so I’m going to try this again. Although the story isn’t is fresh in my mind, it still is very distinct and easily remembered.
Theodore. He is our leading man...uhh...cat. The story is told through his eyes and thoughts. He belongs to Dean, a self confessed serial killer. Dean has set his sights on his next victim, a lovely lady across the way. Theodore’s ultimate goal in life is to stop Dean from killing. He has not been successful yet but he is determined to succeed with Jane, the newest victim.
This time around Theodore tries a different tactic. He decides to get to know the lady on his own by hanging around her place until she eventually lets him in. What he did not think of when he put his plan into action was how this would actually allow Dean to meet Jane. But what is done is done and all Theodore can do is make the best out of it, which he does with a feline’s perfect intelligence and quick thinking.
We get to know more about Dean as he talks to his cat as any other man might do when he is alone. The difference being that Dean is telling his cat what he plans to do to make his current kill, while unknowingly giving Theodore the the information he needs for Jane. Does he succeed in saving his lady friend? You’ll have to read it to find out!
I think the ending is where a lot of stuff was added into this book and it worked well. We definitely were able to get a better understanding of what happened and where each character ends up-whether it’s dead or alive. I feel like this extended version of the story gave better closure for the readers. And it’s still just a really cute story!
4.5 ⭐️’s rounded up for Theodore!
Thank you to BookSirens for providing an e-copy of this book for my voluntary review.
#booksirens
I had also written this review a good month or so ago when I first finished the book but it has disappeared so I’m going to try this again. Although the story isn’t is fresh in my mind, it still is very distinct and easily remembered.
Theodore. He is our leading man...uhh...cat. The story is told through his eyes and thoughts. He belongs to Dean, a self confessed serial killer. Dean has set his sights on his next victim, a lovely lady across the way. Theodore’s ultimate goal in life is to stop Dean from killing. He has not been successful yet but he is determined to succeed with Jane, the newest victim.
This time around Theodore tries a different tactic. He decides to get to know the lady on his own by hanging around her place until she eventually lets him in. What he did not think of when he put his plan into action was how this would actually allow Dean to meet Jane. But what is done is done and all Theodore can do is make the best out of it, which he does with a feline’s perfect intelligence and quick thinking.
We get to know more about Dean as he talks to his cat as any other man might do when he is alone. The difference being that Dean is telling his cat what he plans to do to make his current kill, while unknowingly giving Theodore the the information he needs for Jane. Does he succeed in saving his lady friend? You’ll have to read it to find out!
I think the ending is where a lot of stuff was added into this book and it worked well. We definitely were able to get a better understanding of what happened and where each character ends up-whether it’s dead or alive. I feel like this extended version of the story gave better closure for the readers. And it’s still just a really cute story!
4.5 ⭐️’s rounded up for Theodore!
Thank you to BookSirens for providing an e-copy of this book for my voluntary review.
#booksirens
October 19, 2020
*received a free copy from booksirens for an honest review*
When I first started this book, I thought it was a little juvenile. I think it would be very hard to write from an animal’s perspective; either they have to know everything like a human would or they know nothing. The second one gets tiresome. It did seem like this book was going to go in that direction, but it didn’t. Theodore seemed to know everything that was going on just like a human would, just limited because he can’t talk. He was really cute.
I liked the alternating POVs. It was interesting to know things from Dean’s side too. I also liked that the book was set in Malta. I don’t know where that is and I’ve never been there, but I’ve also never read a book set there. Unfortunately, you didn’t get a feel for the setting at all. It could have taken place anywhere.
There were, to me, a few parallels to Dexter (the drugging) and You (the ceiling). But the plot itself was unique enough to be more of a homage to those works and not directly imitating them. I was also happy not to have too many extra characters. I like it simple.
I was engaged in reading this book and it was a fast read. I didn’t find it incredibly believable (it all seemed to work too well for Dean) and Dean “told” us a lot but didn’t “show” as much. One typo that stood out to me was “grizzliest”...it’s supposed to be “grisliest”. If that’s even a word. The adverb is “grisly”. Grizzlies are bears.
Would recommend this book!
When I first started this book, I thought it was a little juvenile. I think it would be very hard to write from an animal’s perspective; either they have to know everything like a human would or they know nothing. The second one gets tiresome. It did seem like this book was going to go in that direction, but it didn’t. Theodore seemed to know everything that was going on just like a human would, just limited because he can’t talk. He was really cute.
I liked the alternating POVs. It was interesting to know things from Dean’s side too. I also liked that the book was set in Malta. I don’t know where that is and I’ve never been there, but I’ve also never read a book set there. Unfortunately, you didn’t get a feel for the setting at all. It could have taken place anywhere.
There were, to me, a few parallels to Dexter (the drugging) and You (the ceiling). But the plot itself was unique enough to be more of a homage to those works and not directly imitating them. I was also happy not to have too many extra characters. I like it simple.
I was engaged in reading this book and it was a fast read. I didn’t find it incredibly believable (it all seemed to work too well for Dean) and Dean “told” us a lot but didn’t “show” as much. One typo that stood out to me was “grizzliest”...it’s supposed to be “grisliest”. If that’s even a word. The adverb is “grisly”. Grizzlies are bears.
Would recommend this book!
November 5, 2020
4.5 Stars
I thoroughly enjoyed this book! I mean, cats and serial killers? A Cat whose owner IS a serial killer and the cat is actively trying to save and protect his potential victims? A million times sold. There were a few spelling and grammar errors, mostly missing commas and some missing and transposed words, but I loved the story so much that I was able to easily forgive this. Some of the things that I really enjoyed with this whole set up was that the serial killer, Dean, wasn’t your typical serial killer. He didn’t grow up in an abusive home and he never abused animals and just ultimately believes he was born that way. He is, however, definitely a psychopath. He completely lacks empathy and Theodore, the cat, is the only living creature that he feels any humanity towards. And even that is only when Theodore is just being a cat. His sympathetic feelings towards Theodore quickly evaporate when he begins to suspect his cat of thwarting his ventures.
I would definitely say this is a book for cat lovers. I absolutely adored Theodore and to add to the enjoyment, there are short little cat facts at the end of each chapter.
I would definitely recommend this book to those who enjoy serial killer fiction as well as cat lovers.
ARC received via Netgalley. All opinions are expressly my own.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book! I mean, cats and serial killers? A Cat whose owner IS a serial killer and the cat is actively trying to save and protect his potential victims? A million times sold. There were a few spelling and grammar errors, mostly missing commas and some missing and transposed words, but I loved the story so much that I was able to easily forgive this. Some of the things that I really enjoyed with this whole set up was that the serial killer, Dean, wasn’t your typical serial killer. He didn’t grow up in an abusive home and he never abused animals and just ultimately believes he was born that way. He is, however, definitely a psychopath. He completely lacks empathy and Theodore, the cat, is the only living creature that he feels any humanity towards. And even that is only when Theodore is just being a cat. His sympathetic feelings towards Theodore quickly evaporate when he begins to suspect his cat of thwarting his ventures.
I would definitely say this is a book for cat lovers. I absolutely adored Theodore and to add to the enjoyment, there are short little cat facts at the end of each chapter.
I would definitely recommend this book to those who enjoy serial killer fiction as well as cat lovers.
ARC received via Netgalley. All opinions are expressly my own.
October 13, 2020
I enjoyed this story and the differing perspectives. The writer was very creative and the book had a nice flow. I have seen some reviews that didn't like the cat facts at the end of each chapter but I disagree. I thought they were cute.
I am giving this 4 stars because I wanted to see more of the relationship between Dean and his cat. I would have liked to see Theodore wanting to save the girls but when people were harsh with Dean for Theodore to be loyal to his person. It just didn't make sense that he wouldn't.
Otherwise great story and I highly recommend. It was entertaining.
I received an ARC through BookSirens and I am leaving the review voluntarily.
I am giving this 4 stars because I wanted to see more of the relationship between Dean and his cat. I would have liked to see Theodore wanting to save the girls but when people were harsh with Dean for Theodore to be loyal to his person. It just didn't make sense that he wouldn't.
Otherwise great story and I highly recommend. It was entertaining.
I received an ARC through BookSirens and I am leaving the review voluntarily.
November 14, 2022
3.5 stars- what a clever story!
August 8, 2022
The story was alright. The typos and grammatical errors killed me.
May 28, 2025
3.5 stars rounded up to 4 stars. This was a quick, easy read. I liked the unique plot and suspended my disbelief enough about the cat being so intelligent. I'm not sure I'll read any more books in the series, but I was entertained overall with this one. There were a lot of grammatical errors and that is mostly why I rated the book down.
October 8, 2020
I'm struggling with the best way to review this book (which I received from the publisher in exchange for an honest review--thanks to Book Sirens). This is 3.5 stars for me (rounded up to 4).
This was hands down the most unique storyline I have read in years. Who wouldn't want to read a serial killer novel told by A CAT?!
The writing style was meh. I didn't expect the cat to use big words or complex sentences. So that's fine. However, the problem is that the story also was told from the point of view of the serial killer...which was also meh. The dialogue just didn't seem believable from Dean's point of view and it just seemed weird. The cat's fascination with Twitter because it reminded him of a bird was cute. The other stuff from Dean's perspective? Not so much.
Okay, let's talk about those cat facts. At the end of each chapter, we were graced with a cat fact. 1 or 2 of the cat facts might have been mildly interesting, but there majority were not. This was the biggest gripe I had with this book. The plot was thrilling, but don't worry... there's a useless cat fact at the end of every chapter to distract you from whatever plot previously had you on the edge of your seat. This should be removed entirely from the book. Other than that, I really enjoyed the story!
This was hands down the most unique storyline I have read in years. Who wouldn't want to read a serial killer novel told by A CAT?!
The writing style was meh. I didn't expect the cat to use big words or complex sentences. So that's fine. However, the problem is that the story also was told from the point of view of the serial killer...which was also meh. The dialogue just didn't seem believable from Dean's point of view and it just seemed weird. The cat's fascination with Twitter because it reminded him of a bird was cute. The other stuff from Dean's perspective? Not so much.
Okay, let's talk about those cat facts. At the end of each chapter, we were graced with a cat fact. 1 or 2 of the cat facts might have been mildly interesting, but there majority were not. This was the biggest gripe I had with this book. The plot was thrilling, but don't worry... there's a useless cat fact at the end of every chapter to distract you from whatever plot previously had you on the edge of your seat. This should be removed entirely from the book. Other than that, I really enjoyed the story!
October 13, 2020
I tried just about everything I could to find appeal in this book because by all accounts I should have loved it... but it just wasn't there for me, unfortunately. I'm no stranger to stories told by cats and this step away from cozies and into more of a thriller tale meant I immediately dove into this book.
Right from the start, a book with multiple points of view has to work harder to keep me engaged because inevitably I like one POV more than the other/the rest and find myself trudging through just to get back to it. In this case, neither Theodore's nor Dean's narration was riveting. There was very little in the way of worldscaping and the apartments where most of the story is situated are not well described either. The character development is minimal enough to not invest you in their futures, though I also get the feeling maybe that was intentional? Overall, the writing lacks a certain professionalism and draw that just really had this story failing to thrive for me.
~ This review is comprised solely of my voluntarily given honest opinion of this book after reading an ARC provided by BookSirens ~
Right from the start, a book with multiple points of view has to work harder to keep me engaged because inevitably I like one POV more than the other/the rest and find myself trudging through just to get back to it. In this case, neither Theodore's nor Dean's narration was riveting. There was very little in the way of worldscaping and the apartments where most of the story is situated are not well described either. The character development is minimal enough to not invest you in their futures, though I also get the feeling maybe that was intentional? Overall, the writing lacks a certain professionalism and draw that just really had this story failing to thrive for me.
~ This review is comprised solely of my voluntarily given honest opinion of this book after reading an ARC provided by BookSirens ~
March 29, 2021
A thriller about a serial killer told by a cat, I knew I had to read it. It was enjoyable and I liked the little additions that reminded you it was a cat’s point of view. It was also interesting to read Deans chapters as it helped build the relationship between Theodore and Dean. I think Theodore is written very well and you’re urging him on the whole way to stop Dean killing again.
At the end of each chapter there is a cat fact, but I think it disrupted the flow and shouldn’t be included – none of them are really new either. Additionally I did guess the outcome but I liked the little Theodore touches as it felt genuine.
*I received a complimentary copy of the e-book from BookSirens in exchange for an honest review.
At the end of each chapter there is a cat fact, but I think it disrupted the flow and shouldn’t be included – none of them are really new either. Additionally I did guess the outcome but I liked the little Theodore touches as it felt genuine.
*I received a complimentary copy of the e-book from BookSirens in exchange for an honest review.
November 3, 2020
Theodore knows his neighbor is in danger and he really wants to save her except it is proving difficult as he is a cat and his owner is a serial killer.
Okay , how unique and refreshing is this story! A serial killer story told from the cat, Theodore’s point of view! I felt that in of itself was a fun approach to the novel. Theodore was so cute and I really enjoyed his personality. I did not feel the dialogue from Dean’s POV was very believable and I did feel it could use some editing.
I did however enjoy the cute cat facts in between the chapters and like I said, the refreshing take on a murder novel was very nice. It makes me wonder what my dogs are thinking???
***Thank you to Netgalley and Victory Editing for a copy in exchange for my honest review.***
Okay , how unique and refreshing is this story! A serial killer story told from the cat, Theodore’s point of view! I felt that in of itself was a fun approach to the novel. Theodore was so cute and I really enjoyed his personality. I did not feel the dialogue from Dean’s POV was very believable and I did feel it could use some editing.
I did however enjoy the cute cat facts in between the chapters and like I said, the refreshing take on a murder novel was very nice. It makes me wonder what my dogs are thinking???
***Thank you to Netgalley and Victory Editing for a copy in exchange for my honest review.***
October 23, 2020
I received a free copy of this book through BookSirens in exchange for an honest review.
This book had an interesting premise. I was rather nervous when I saw a disclaimer at the beginning of the book, but I am happy to report that there was nothing overly cringe worthy. I would have labeled this a DNF if there was graphic animal violence (as I look to my cat to make sure she's still there and comfy).
There are cute little cat facts after each chapter. One of the things I liked about this book was that as I was reading it kept prompting me to ask what my cat actually thinks about me. This is quick read as well. It's good for a fast suspense novel.
This book had an interesting premise. I was rather nervous when I saw a disclaimer at the beginning of the book, but I am happy to report that there was nothing overly cringe worthy. I would have labeled this a DNF if there was graphic animal violence (as I look to my cat to make sure she's still there and comfy).
There are cute little cat facts after each chapter. One of the things I liked about this book was that as I was reading it kept prompting me to ask what my cat actually thinks about me. This is quick read as well. It's good for a fast suspense novel.
July 9, 2024
I really feel this short story was lacking. Behind all of the grammatical errors and the chapters and thoughts that seemed to end abruptly, it seemed the story was forced and made quickly. It reminds of how tv networks will make bad final seasons of a show in order to end it. This felt like the author had a really cute idea of a feline helping a stranger to forewarn them of danger led by his owner, and instead you get a mash of quick and half-thought ideas. The twist at the end was highly predictable and outrageous. I do have to say, I thoroughly enjoyed the attention to detail on cat behavior, mannerisms, and attitude that were added into the story. They seemed spot on and charming. I don’t see myself reading the sequel as this story already feels washed up.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 26, 2025
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I always knew cats were smart, but Ellis has given me something new to ponder in The Neighbour’s Cat! Can they understand what we say? What we do? Who we are? Theodore sure can, and he’s trying his damndest to keep his owner from any more murderous activity. A very refreshing take on a psychological thriller.
I always knew cats were smart, but Ellis has given me something new to ponder in The Neighbour’s Cat! Can they understand what we say? What we do? Who we are? Theodore sure can, and he’s trying his damndest to keep his owner from any more murderous activity. A very refreshing take on a psychological thriller.
May 19, 2025
I love love love this book!
It’s cleverly written with a lot of suspense and turns. I love the way. The author shows the point of view from the cat. If you are a cat lover, you will really love this book.
It’s cleverly written with a lot of suspense and turns. I love the way. The author shows the point of view from the cat. If you are a cat lover, you will really love this book.
March 23, 2025
A psychological thriller written from the POV of a cat? Count me in.
November 4, 2020
"... as I watch the house sparrow. It's safe from my claws as the window is closed."
That last sentence marked the end of this amazing, eccentric novel with a premise that I had never before encountered. First of all, I loved reading this book so much. I mean just the summary itself grabbed me in an instant; a cat, aware and knowledgeable of his owner's extracurricular activities in the murder department, schemes to save the victims that his owner 'elects'. What an amazing book and beautiful story! I very much enjoyed myself while reading this book and I highly recommend it!
I mean this as a compliment, but J.S. Ellis really wrote well as the voice of the cat, Theodore. She truly did an amazing job not only making the cat sentient, aware, and extraordinarily smart; but also included little tidbits that screamed of natural cat behavior so the reader never loses sight of the importance of reading from an animal's perspective. The cat's POV kept the suspense going throughout the book, and it was truly un-put-downable!
The chapters are also interspersed with 'Cat Facts' and I really loved this addition as well because while they are unrelated with the actual chapter content, they add an educational spark to the book, and the reader departs with these tiny bits of information. I remember thinking, after reading a cat fact about using their tails for balance, that these facts help grow a new appreciation for cats and animals in general. The author states at the beginning that this book is for animals lovers and I agree with her.
The chapters also go back and forth between Theodore the cat, and his owner, Dean. In Dean’s chapter, things are more ominous and deadly obviously because he’s the bad guy, but the fact that his chapters are just as interesting and intriguing make this book so fun to read. But of course my favorite chapters are from Theodore's perspective, and one of my favorite lines are:
"Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. I like the last name best; it sounds like a bird."
I have others, but this line and the last line in the book that I shared earlier just strike me as so amusing and adorable. This book is so good, a true thriller without any added details on gore or bloody violence.
I loved reading this book and I'm sure anyone who likes murder mysteries, psychological thrillers, serial killers, or just cats, would also really enjoy this book as well. It was an amazing book about a cat, with the perspective from the cat, that takes you on a beautiful journey of found family, making the right choices, standing up for what is right despite how much it can hurt you, and being brave enough to heal from trauma and pain. That summary sounds very little like a thriller novel, but at the heart of the story, that is precisely what it is. Theodore is inspiring in his own way, and I also love the fact that this book does its best to change the opinion on the stereotypes surrounding cats, and helps the reader to see that all animals are special, beautiful, perfect in their own way, deserving of love and affection, and capable of giving love and affection right back to you ❤
*Thank you to the publisher; Black Cat Ink Press, the author; J.S. Ellis, and Booksirens for my free copy of this book in exchange of an honest review!
That last sentence marked the end of this amazing, eccentric novel with a premise that I had never before encountered. First of all, I loved reading this book so much. I mean just the summary itself grabbed me in an instant; a cat, aware and knowledgeable of his owner's extracurricular activities in the murder department, schemes to save the victims that his owner 'elects'. What an amazing book and beautiful story! I very much enjoyed myself while reading this book and I highly recommend it!
I mean this as a compliment, but J.S. Ellis really wrote well as the voice of the cat, Theodore. She truly did an amazing job not only making the cat sentient, aware, and extraordinarily smart; but also included little tidbits that screamed of natural cat behavior so the reader never loses sight of the importance of reading from an animal's perspective. The cat's POV kept the suspense going throughout the book, and it was truly un-put-downable!
The chapters are also interspersed with 'Cat Facts' and I really loved this addition as well because while they are unrelated with the actual chapter content, they add an educational spark to the book, and the reader departs with these tiny bits of information. I remember thinking, after reading a cat fact about using their tails for balance, that these facts help grow a new appreciation for cats and animals in general. The author states at the beginning that this book is for animals lovers and I agree with her.
The chapters also go back and forth between Theodore the cat, and his owner, Dean. In Dean’s chapter, things are more ominous and deadly obviously because he’s the bad guy, but the fact that his chapters are just as interesting and intriguing make this book so fun to read. But of course my favorite chapters are from Theodore's perspective, and one of my favorite lines are:
"Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. I like the last name best; it sounds like a bird."
I have others, but this line and the last line in the book that I shared earlier just strike me as so amusing and adorable. This book is so good, a true thriller without any added details on gore or bloody violence.
I loved reading this book and I'm sure anyone who likes murder mysteries, psychological thrillers, serial killers, or just cats, would also really enjoy this book as well. It was an amazing book about a cat, with the perspective from the cat, that takes you on a beautiful journey of found family, making the right choices, standing up for what is right despite how much it can hurt you, and being brave enough to heal from trauma and pain. That summary sounds very little like a thriller novel, but at the heart of the story, that is precisely what it is. Theodore is inspiring in his own way, and I also love the fact that this book does its best to change the opinion on the stereotypes surrounding cats, and helps the reader to see that all animals are special, beautiful, perfect in their own way, deserving of love and affection, and capable of giving love and affection right back to you ❤
*Thank you to the publisher; Black Cat Ink Press, the author; J.S. Ellis, and Booksirens for my free copy of this book in exchange of an honest review!
December 15, 2020
Theodore's room mate is a serial killer. He has tried endlessly to try and stop the charming and handsome Dean from killing more girls, but he has failed. This is because Theodore is a cat. Dean Carter is a loving and caring owner to his cat which he found on the street. He cares so much for Theodore and Theodore is grateful to Dean that he saved his life. Although Dean is brutal to women. Theodore cannot stand to watch more women go through this again, but Dean now has his eyes set on Jane.
Jane lives next door and she is attractive. She is very kind, especially to Theodore. This is why he will do anything to prevent her from getting hurt by Dean. Obviously because Theodore is a cat, he needs to work out how to warn her about Deans dark past and his new savage plans.
Looking at this books cover and title drew me in from the start. I was so excited to read this book, especially knowing it is a psychological thriller (my favourite genre). It is told from the perspective of Theodore which is very interesting. There are some chapters told from Dean's perspective which ties in neatly with Theodore's chapters. Hearing this story from Theodore was unique and it gave the book more depth. I loved how well the author used the cats voice for this story, it was used so effortlessly. I was expecting the minority of chapters to be told from Theodore's perspective when I first picked up the book, but I was wrong as it is mostly told from his perspective.
The topic of serial killers makes a book seem so interesting and make the characters seem so dangerous. Dean is a complex character with a deep dark history. I found the author conceptualised the idea of a serial killer in an amazing way, I can tell research was done to find out about their habits. I managed to read this book in one day, it was such a quick read for me. I could not put this story down, the ending is so dramatic! I loved Jane's characters, she was strong and independent. Theodore was loveable and caring for those who cared about him.
Thank you to Book Sirens for providing this copy for me to review honestly. I loved this read and I am excited to read more from this author. Here is the link to this book on amazon and goodreads. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Jane lives next door and she is attractive. She is very kind, especially to Theodore. This is why he will do anything to prevent her from getting hurt by Dean. Obviously because Theodore is a cat, he needs to work out how to warn her about Deans dark past and his new savage plans.
Looking at this books cover and title drew me in from the start. I was so excited to read this book, especially knowing it is a psychological thriller (my favourite genre). It is told from the perspective of Theodore which is very interesting. There are some chapters told from Dean's perspective which ties in neatly with Theodore's chapters. Hearing this story from Theodore was unique and it gave the book more depth. I loved how well the author used the cats voice for this story, it was used so effortlessly. I was expecting the minority of chapters to be told from Theodore's perspective when I first picked up the book, but I was wrong as it is mostly told from his perspective.
The topic of serial killers makes a book seem so interesting and make the characters seem so dangerous. Dean is a complex character with a deep dark history. I found the author conceptualised the idea of a serial killer in an amazing way, I can tell research was done to find out about their habits. I managed to read this book in one day, it was such a quick read for me. I could not put this story down, the ending is so dramatic! I loved Jane's characters, she was strong and independent. Theodore was loveable and caring for those who cared about him.
Thank you to Book Sirens for providing this copy for me to review honestly. I loved this read and I am excited to read more from this author. Here is the link to this book on amazon and goodreads. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
November 9, 2020
I received a free ecopy of this book for an honest review from Book Sirens. Here's my review:
I enjoy the occasional thriller and typically psychological thrillers are my most preferred kind. This book had me intrigued because of the different perspective it offered. I don't think an animal narrating a story is truly a unique idea but nevertheless, it isn't your story either - especially when the pet (in this case a cat) is narrating how their human goes about murdering people.
It did have a certain cat-saves-the-day angle towards the climax but then that is kind of expected as the story progresses. It still keeps the pace going and the pages turning. It's a short read (I read it in one sitting) and enjoyable too. If there was any constructive criticism I would offer to the author, it's just these two:
1. The main off-putting thing were the multiple grammatical errors and misses. Personally, it actually came off as if English isn't the first language for the author... I say this simply because some of the construction felt like it was thought in one language and translated to English while writing it - if that makes sense. So, if I'm mistaken and that's not the case, then perhaps there's a lot of room for improvement in editing/proof-reading.
2. The story is intriguing, like I said. However, the author could develop more on the characters. The killer didn't seem evil or sinister enough to categorize the book as a 'psychological' thriller. I mean, if Theodore the cat didn't announce right off the bat that his human was a serial killer, there wasn't much detailing of Dean's (the killer) character to point out that he was. Same thing for the victim too.
All in all, I did really enjoy the book, would recommend it too; deducting one star for the two points above.
I enjoy the occasional thriller and typically psychological thrillers are my most preferred kind. This book had me intrigued because of the different perspective it offered. I don't think an animal narrating a story is truly a unique idea but nevertheless, it isn't your story either - especially when the pet (in this case a cat) is narrating how their human goes about murdering people.
It did have a certain cat-saves-the-day angle towards the climax but then that is kind of expected as the story progresses. It still keeps the pace going and the pages turning. It's a short read (I read it in one sitting) and enjoyable too. If there was any constructive criticism I would offer to the author, it's just these two:
1. The main off-putting thing were the multiple grammatical errors and misses. Personally, it actually came off as if English isn't the first language for the author... I say this simply because some of the construction felt like it was thought in one language and translated to English while writing it - if that makes sense. So, if I'm mistaken and that's not the case, then perhaps there's a lot of room for improvement in editing/proof-reading.
2. The story is intriguing, like I said. However, the author could develop more on the characters. The killer didn't seem evil or sinister enough to categorize the book as a 'psychological' thriller. I mean, if Theodore the cat didn't announce right off the bat that his human was a serial killer, there wasn't much detailing of Dean's (the killer) character to point out that he was. Same thing for the victim too.
All in all, I did really enjoy the book, would recommend it too; deducting one star for the two points above.
October 11, 2020
This is a crime/ thriller novel with a difference. It is told from dual perspective of both Dean the serial killer and Theodore his cat. I know! Sounds quirky right? But actually, it is narrated really well, and we get to know Dean and his victims through the eyes of his cat and through Dean’s own thinking. Theodore actually likes his owner well enough. It’s Dean’s closest relationship and the closest thing he feels to love. Despite being a predator and gratitude to Dean, Theodore does not like him being a serial killer and has a strong desire to save Dean’s victims. But being a cat is difficult when you want to save a human. The story evolves as Dean selects his next victim. This is a really good page turner as we wait to see what happens next and feel helpless and frustration as Theodore does in this fatal game. Each chapter ends with facts about cats, which is a unique chapter break and momentarily gives us the reader a breather as this slow burn thriller picks up pace. The dedication is to animal lovers, because let’s face it, Theodore is the MVP in this story. It’s the first time I’m reading a story by this Author and I enjoyed the writing style very much.
Thank you to the Author, Publisher and BookSirens for the Advanced Reader Copy. I am voluntarily reviewing this story and all opinions are unbiased and my own.
Thank you to the Author, Publisher and BookSirens for the Advanced Reader Copy. I am voluntarily reviewing this story and all opinions are unbiased and my own.
October 26, 2020
A fast-paced, twisted read, that I found I did not want to put down! I love that the story did not follow the typical, killer-thriller 'formula'. It is a very unique tale that immediately drew me in. The characters are vivid and complex and made the story seem so realistic, that I often felt like I was actually there watching the story unfold. This was a fresh, original and exciting read for me. I'm a confirmed J. S. Ellis fan!
*I received a complimentary ARC of this book in order to read and provide a voluntary, unbiased and honest review, should I choose to do so.
*I received a complimentary ARC of this book in order to read and provide a voluntary, unbiased and honest review, should I choose to do so.
October 9, 2020
I love seeing life through a cat's point of view! What a refreshing change of pace. Theodore is an amazing character, and I want to read more about him now. The book is very easy to read and has a wonderful plot. I enjoyed this book a lot.
I received a free advance review copy in exchange for my honest and open review.
I received a free advance review copy in exchange for my honest and open review.
November 21, 2020
He was just a cat and he watched his owner kill women and be so cruel to them. Now he sees his owner eyeing up yet another woman so he needs to help keep her safe. How can he do it? Will she even believe him if he could talk? see if he can keep her safe
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
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