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A Furry Friends Mystery #2
Tailing Trouble
Wisconsin veterinarian Ally Winter must solve a well-heeled young woman's a-paw-ling murder in USA Today bestselling author Laura Scott's second Furry Friends mystery.
Thirty-something veterinarian Ally Winter has found a new "leash" on life since she moved back to her hometown of Willow Bluff, Wisconsin. But when she takes Domino, the black standard poodle she's boarding for the weekend, for a sunny September stroll along the shore of Lake Michigan, the diminutive dog dashes off, only to return with a single, polka-dotted, high-heeled shoe. Retracing Domino's paw prints back to a weeping willow tree, they find the other shoe. It's still on the foot of 20-year-old Pricilla Green--lying dead beneath the willow, with a silk scarf knotted tightly around her neck.
Willow Bluff's finest--and handsomest--detective, Noah Jorgenson, is soon on the tail of the killer. But he has another worry on his mind when Ally's grandfather, a lifelong true-crime buff, starts to suspect that the recent burglary of a local big-box store may have some connection to Pricilla's murder. Noah cautions Ally to keep Gramps well away from the homicide investigation, but the old dog is drawn to danger like a puppy is to a squeaky ball.
The fur flies as Ally, Noah, Gramps, and Domino race the clock to fetch the felon. It will take all of their canine canniness to comb out the twists and curls in this wild and woolly case. And if they fail, they won't live to go walkies again.
Thirty-something veterinarian Ally Winter has found a new "leash" on life since she moved back to her hometown of Willow Bluff, Wisconsin. But when she takes Domino, the black standard poodle she's boarding for the weekend, for a sunny September stroll along the shore of Lake Michigan, the diminutive dog dashes off, only to return with a single, polka-dotted, high-heeled shoe. Retracing Domino's paw prints back to a weeping willow tree, they find the other shoe. It's still on the foot of 20-year-old Pricilla Green--lying dead beneath the willow, with a silk scarf knotted tightly around her neck.
Willow Bluff's finest--and handsomest--detective, Noah Jorgenson, is soon on the tail of the killer. But he has another worry on his mind when Ally's grandfather, a lifelong true-crime buff, starts to suspect that the recent burglary of a local big-box store may have some connection to Pricilla's murder. Noah cautions Ally to keep Gramps well away from the homicide investigation, but the old dog is drawn to danger like a puppy is to a squeaky ball.
The fur flies as Ally, Noah, Gramps, and Domino race the clock to fetch the felon. It will take all of their canine canniness to comb out the twists and curls in this wild and woolly case. And if they fail, they won't live to go walkies again.
309 pages, Hardcover
Published January 1, 2022
22 people are currently reading
233 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 103 reviews
June 26, 2021
Author Laura Scott brings readers a bevy of cute animals to go ‘Awwww’ over in the second installment of her Furry Friends series. I consider this tale a light cozy mystery that’s fast and easy to read. I enjoy protagonist Ally Winter and appreciate her hard work (and sometimes yucky), taking care of people’s pets. Her Gramps is a handful, yet I really like him and his conspiracy theories about just about everything! LOL! He is spunky!
The murder mystery is a fairly light one. I enjoyed the handsome black standard male poodle pictured on the book cover—Domino, and the part he plays in the story. He and Roxy, Ally’s female boxer, have hearts in their eyes for each other. I still can’t warm up to Detective Noah Jergenson. The things he says and the way he treats Ally and Gramps just rubs me wrong way. I was surprised as the bits and pieces of this plot finally fit together and the murder puzzle was solved. Happy Reading!
I honestly reviewed an unedited, digital arc provided by NetGalley and Crooked Lane Books. All opinions are my own. Thank you.
The murder mystery is a fairly light one. I enjoyed the handsome black standard male poodle pictured on the book cover—Domino, and the part he plays in the story. He and Roxy, Ally’s female boxer, have hearts in their eyes for each other. I still can’t warm up to Detective Noah Jergenson. The things he says and the way he treats Ally and Gramps just rubs me wrong way. I was surprised as the bits and pieces of this plot finally fit together and the murder puzzle was solved. Happy Reading!
I honestly reviewed an unedited, digital arc provided by NetGalley and Crooked Lane Books. All opinions are my own. Thank you.
January 11, 2022
An enjoyable cozy intertwined nicely with a blooming romance. Dr. Ally Winter tried to remind herself she is a veterinary doctor not a detective wannabe but her grandpa kept pulling her back into investigating both a robbery and a murder. Detective Noah Jorgenson strongly suggested they both stay out of his investigation but keeping grandpa from investigating might be even harder than solving the actual crimes.
Fun characters, animals and an interesting protagonist kept me entertained and ready for more books in the Furry Friends Mystery series. Thanks to Crooked Lane Books and NetGalley for an advanced copy. The opinions expressed are my own.
Fun characters, animals and an interesting protagonist kept me entertained and ready for more books in the Furry Friends Mystery series. Thanks to Crooked Lane Books and NetGalley for an advanced copy. The opinions expressed are my own.
October 14, 2021
Tailing Trouble is the second book in author Laura Scott's Furry Friends Mystery series. I found this to be an easy and fun read. Ally is very enjoyable and her grandfather steals the show. I always enjoy how his mind works and his conspiracy theories unfold into something that has some bearing on how the mystery unravels. I also get a chuckle out of his phone skills. I'm still not sure how I feel about Detective Jorgenson, the love interest for Ally. He is hot and cold with his affection toward Ally and I am put off of his treatment of Ally and her grandfather as they do their own sleuthing. Hopefully, that will soften and change as the series continues. After all, both Ally and her grandfather offer some good insight and perspectives.
The mystery is light but there are several suspects for the reader to focus their attention on. Once again Ally and her grandfather are able to take what appear to be unrelated pieces and clues to put them together to come close to solving the mystery.
I voluntarily read a digital advanced reader copy provided to me by the publisher, Crooked Lane Book, through NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own and were in no way impacted by the manner in which I received this book.
The mystery is light but there are several suspects for the reader to focus their attention on. Once again Ally and her grandfather are able to take what appear to be unrelated pieces and clues to put them together to come close to solving the mystery.
I voluntarily read a digital advanced reader copy provided to me by the publisher, Crooked Lane Book, through NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own and were in no way impacted by the manner in which I received this book.
April 13, 2022
⭐ DNF @40%
I am throwing in the towel on this one. The writing isn't great. The dialogue is stilted, and it's really very repetitive. Life is too short to waste it on books that are not working out!
**ARC Via NetGalley**
I am throwing in the towel on this one. The writing isn't great. The dialogue is stilted, and it's really very repetitive. Life is too short to waste it on books that are not working out!
**ARC Via NetGalley**
December 22, 2021
Dr. Ally Winter recently returned to her home town of Willow Bluff, Wisconsin and opened the Furry Friends Veterinary Clinic. Business is off to a slow start, so she also started boarding and grooming dogs as well. She also gets some free help from her grandfather and a couple of his friends working the reception desk. Gramps, however, would rather be indulging his passion for true crime shows or investigating real life crimes. A series of local robberies followed by a murder gets Oscar’s attention and soon he’s convinced Ally to join him in their own investigation, even though her old friend and potential boyfriend Detective Noah Jorgenson want them to stay out of the case.
I love the unique premise of the main character being a veterinarian. In fact, the scenes I enjoyed the most were those of Ally on the job. That being said, when she gets scratched by one of her feline patients and dogs fight and get away from her during walks make her look incompetant! There is also such a thing as too much realism. We know dogs need to take walks, but didn’t need this mentioned in almost every scene.
This is only the second book in the series, so I think there is potential. In addition to the great premise, Ally is a likable character. Some of the dialogue between Ally and Noah seems stilted, so I couldn’t decide if I thought they would make a good couple or not. On the positive side,I enjoy the close relationship Ally has with her grandfather and how loyal and protective she is of him. I wasn’t able to guess the identity of the murderer or what was behind the series of thefts,. I also really enjoyed the cute ending of the book. I would rate it 3.5 stars.
I received this ebook from NetGalley through the courtesy of Crooked Lane. An advance copy was provided to me at no cost, but my review is voluntary and unbiased.
I love the unique premise of the main character being a veterinarian. In fact, the scenes I enjoyed the most were those of Ally on the job. That being said, when she gets scratched by one of her feline patients and dogs fight and get away from her during walks make her look incompetant! There is also such a thing as too much realism. We know dogs need to take walks, but didn’t need this mentioned in almost every scene.
This is only the second book in the series, so I think there is potential. In addition to the great premise, Ally is a likable character. Some of the dialogue between Ally and Noah seems stilted, so I couldn’t decide if I thought they would make a good couple or not. On the positive side,I enjoy the close relationship Ally has with her grandfather and how loyal and protective she is of him. I wasn’t able to guess the identity of the murderer or what was behind the series of thefts,. I also really enjoyed the cute ending of the book. I would rate it 3.5 stars.
I received this ebook from NetGalley through the courtesy of Crooked Lane. An advance copy was provided to me at no cost, but my review is voluntary and unbiased.
January 28, 2022
The positives: I like the vet setting and the dogs sound really cute.
I really enjoyed her grandfather and the senior women in the last one. In this one, her grandfather was overbearing and annoying. Noah, the detective, I also liked in the first one. In this one, he’s not very nice and there was no chemistry between him and Ally. I just don’t understand how these detectives always fall for the women whose main purpose in the books is to make them look bad by doing their job for them.
Ally has to be the worst businessperson on the planet. Her vet practice is slow so instead of trying to drum up business, she spends her time driving her grandfather everywhere so they can investigate. And when she does have clients, she’s completely incompetent, getting scratched while administering vaccines. I could barely get through this one. It’s difficult to get lost in the story when it’s completely bogged down with mundane tasks (how many times do we have to hear she walked the dogs?!!!) and baseless accusations. I’m definitely done with this series.
I really enjoyed her grandfather and the senior women in the last one. In this one, her grandfather was overbearing and annoying. Noah, the detective, I also liked in the first one. In this one, he’s not very nice and there was no chemistry between him and Ally. I just don’t understand how these detectives always fall for the women whose main purpose in the books is to make them look bad by doing their job for them.
Ally has to be the worst businessperson on the planet. Her vet practice is slow so instead of trying to drum up business, she spends her time driving her grandfather everywhere so they can investigate. And when she does have clients, she’s completely incompetent, getting scratched while administering vaccines. I could barely get through this one. It’s difficult to get lost in the story when it’s completely bogged down with mundane tasks (how many times do we have to hear she walked the dogs?!!!) and baseless accusations. I’m definitely done with this series.
January 12, 2022
I love reading about Ally's veterinary practice, almost more than I like reading about her and Gramps' interference in Noah's cases. I loved that the little girl that finds strays is back. I wish she had a greater role, she's so precious! This was a good story, but gramps's nosiness gets a little irritating at times. Charming someone out of information is one thing, but in this book, he's a lot more direct and doesn't respect Noah's ability to solve the crime. Still a fun read and I look forward to the next in the series.
January 26, 2022
TAILING TROUBLE, the second Furry Friends Mystery, features veterinarian Ally Winter and her true-crime buff grandfather. With plenty of pets, a touch of romance, and murder, it is a light, entertaining read.
I have not read the first book in the series, DOGGED BY DEATH, but had no trouble navigating the characters, setting, and relationships. I enjoy Ally’s ingenuity and love of animals (though the constant references to taking the dogs out became noticeably repetitive), but Gramps steals every scene he is in. I love him and his senior living roommates. I do not know how to feel about Ally’s love interest Detective Jorgensen. His treatment of Ally and Gramps changes on a dime.
The murder mystery is handled with a light touch, and the pace is good. Author Scott does a great job weaving seemingly unrelated events into a viable murder mystery. Kudos to Gramps and his conspiracy theories. Though there are several suspects and clues doled out, I did not figure out the killer’s identity until late in the story.
I received an ARC of this title from Crooked Lane Books through NetGalley and voluntarily shared my thoughts here.
I have not read the first book in the series, DOGGED BY DEATH, but had no trouble navigating the characters, setting, and relationships. I enjoy Ally’s ingenuity and love of animals (though the constant references to taking the dogs out became noticeably repetitive), but Gramps steals every scene he is in. I love him and his senior living roommates. I do not know how to feel about Ally’s love interest Detective Jorgensen. His treatment of Ally and Gramps changes on a dime.
The murder mystery is handled with a light touch, and the pace is good. Author Scott does a great job weaving seemingly unrelated events into a viable murder mystery. Kudos to Gramps and his conspiracy theories. Though there are several suspects and clues doled out, I did not figure out the killer’s identity until late in the story.
I received an ARC of this title from Crooked Lane Books through NetGalley and voluntarily shared my thoughts here.
April 20, 2022
I found this in my library's catalog and it was a cute read, of course, most of the characters were quirky. Ally has returned home after a failed relationship, she spends more time grooming dogs than being able to use her skills as a veterinarian but she's flexible and wants to build her business, which she recently bought from the town's retired veterinarian. I enjoyed following Ally and her Gramps as they went out to eat a lot, and ask questions of anyone who they thought would help them help Noah, the detective solve the murder(s).
March 31, 2022
The second book in this series is just as good as the first. I especially love all the comedic vet scenes as we follow Ally through her work day. And her Gramps -- wanna be sleuth extraordinaire -- is a hoot! It's packed full of furry friends and quirky secondary characters and is a clean read as well. Just the way I like my cozies. There's eve a bit of light romance, or the hint of one at least, with nary a love triangle in sight which makes me one happy armchair sleuthing reader!
February 13, 2022
Veternarian Ally Winter is settled in her new, old home in Willow Bluff, Wisconsin. Her return to her childhood hometown was less than ideal with a murder mystery her grandfather was determined to solve and few clients for her veterninary practice. Now she has a system for getting clients and learning better how to get paid for her services. If only her old, OK current too, crush, Detective Noah Jorgenson would return her feelings and ask her out. A recent theft at a big box electronics store in town has Gramps playing detective again, much to Noah's dismay. Gramps is convinced the security camera were tampered with and the police will never solve the case without him. Then Ally, stuck boarding Domino, a poorly trained black Poodle, follows the pooch on the scent to a willow tree where Domino promptly returns a red and white polka dot high heeled shoe, last seen on the foot of Priscilla Green, the young cleaning woman for Legacy House. Unfortunately, the other shoe is still on Priscilla's foot attached to a very much dead body. Noah on the case and so is Gramps! When Priscilla's mother, city executive Hilda Green, accuses Ally of murdering her daughter and what's worse, Noah seems to believe the accusation, Ally sees red and is determined to help Gramps solve this case and clear her name. Then the clinic is robbed and Legacy House is broken into. Are the events connected to the robbery or the murder? Both? Coincidence? Ally is convinced Domino can help find the answers but is he really cut out for police work or just poorly trained?
This story is light and funny. I enjoyed following the clues and red herrings but when all was revealed, none of it made sense. The motive came out of thin air and is bizarre. I don't see why the murderer had to actually murder people. It was all very strange. If you aren't into veterinary medicine, like me, you'll find some scenes too technical and graphic (TMI). I'd rather stick to Domino, Roxy and Bandit. Bandit's human reminds me of Mrs. Pumphrey in All Creatures Great and Small. I don't need the technical details about how Ally is treating animals, plus this may spread misinformation and lead to more harm than good.
The animals are pretty cute. Roxy, who doesn't have much to do because she's confined while Domino is in residence, is a sweetheart. She's energetic and needs a lot more exercise than Ally gives her. Dominic does as well. He's young and in serious need of training. I don't understand why she didn't put a halter on him. My brother's dog walks much better with the halter, otherwise she's walking ME. She's a little smaller than Domino but strong. Domino also sniffs out clues which seems ridiculous but I like it. He's not a trained police dog so perhaps he's just behaving badly and not actually sniffing clues. If he is, it doesn't make sense in every scene. Bandit is a sweet little LabraDane puppy in need of a home. He may be big but he's adorable and can easily be trained. Cat lovers note that the few cats in the story don't get the same treatment. One cat is badly behaved and the other one is better but in both cases, the humans treat their furbabies like human babies.
Ally is a good dog mom for the most part. She works hard with Domino and tries to minimize the amount of time the dogs are crated even though they destroy her waiting room. However, a vet should understand dog body language and see that the nipping and pulling is playful puppy behavior, not fighting. Some good training for BOTH dogs would make Ally's life easier. Perhaps one or both was taken away from their mother too soon and never learned manners.
The human characters are less appealing than the animals. Ally isn't bad but she doesn't have a strong personality. She's not bold enough or brave enough to go after what she needs or wants. Ally gives in to her grandfather, enabling him. She loves him dearly and doesn't want to see him hurt. She makes suggestions but he doesn't listen. Ally whines to her friend Erica about her love life but doesn't actually try to talk to Noah about his intentions. Erica, thankfully, posesses inside information. Gramps annoys the heck out of me. Obsessed with true crime, Oscar thinks he's better than the police. He's an elderly man (at 78) and doesn't have the stamina to take an active involvement in a murder investigation. He still thinks he can solve it before the police do though. I do think there's some merit to his crack brained theories though and I suspect he's right on the nose with his early guess. I also suspect Noah is thinking along the same lines. Oscar is so infernally stubborn! He resists doing the right thing, like physical therapy, yet wants to be doing things like helping Ally in the practice or solving crimes, and he just won't admit he shouldn't. He won't back down from going and doing what he wants in pursuit of answers. The information Oscar obtains won't hold up in court. He turns on the charm and gossips with the ladies in town. That's all he knows-heresay and gossip. It's lucky that some of it might turn out to be right.
The Willow Bluff Widows are starting to take shape in my mind. Harriet is the bossy matronly type. She loves to cook and take care of people. She's a bit bossy with her sister but she does seem to love her sister and means well. Tillie is a sweetheart for the most part but even she has her moments where she snaps and when she does, it's at Priscilla! Uh oh! I know Tillie would never hurt anyone even if she was unhappy with Priscilla's cleaning. Lydia is the quiet, thoughtful one. Ally's thoughts about Lydia's knitting were riude and unkind. I'm glad she didn't hurt the widow by voicing them outloud.
Priscilla Green was an angsty young woman. She wanted to be free from her mother's rules and restrictions- to go where she wanted, do what she wanted, be with who she wanted. Hilda is a tough mother. She kicked her own daughter out of the house for not following her rules. Priscilla is an adult and shouldn't be forced to follow childish rules. It's clearly made her act out and behave like a rebellious teen, even though she's in her early 20s. There's nothing wrong with her style choices. It's her life, her body, her choice and all the criticism of her style is uncalled for. Her colorful clothes, piercings and high heels aren't my thing but clearly Priscilla feels she can express herself that way. Or she's thumbing her nose at her mother. Priscilla may have been prickly and rebellious but she didn't deserve to die.
Who killed Priscilla? Judging from her mother's bizarre reaction to the news, I'd say Hilda was the chief suspect. Hilda didn't like it when Priscilla left home and was no longer under her control. Hilda would prefer a model daughter who reflected her image of the perfect city executive. I HATE controlling mothers and the clues do seem to point to her. Hilda even prefers Priscilla's own best friend, Marlie, to Priscilla. Marlie is very upset at Priscilla's death and is determined to protect Hilda and stand by her. Marlie seems a bit too perfect like a mean girl/cheerleader type. She works at the electronics store with Priscilla's boyfriend Jake and seems to know him well. Of course the police find that more often than not, women are murdered by their significant others so Jake is a person of interest as well. He seems young and immature. At first I assumed he got into a fight with Priscilla and killed her but once we see him, he doesn't seem the type. He's just a kid trying to earn enough money to live independently.
Gramps suspects Darla, the waitress at the cafe of wrongdoing. He thinks she's involved with the electronics store robbery just because she's wearing long sleeves on a hot day. He's crazy! Ally says Darla is really nice and a loving cat mom. Darla may be covering up tattoos on her arms that look unprofessional. There may be a good reason for long sleeves. She isn't an excellent server but she does her job and I see no reason for suspicion. He also suspects Steve Norris, another electronics store employee, of being involved in the robbery and perhaps Priscilla's death. Another young employee, Colin, didn't seem too broken up about Priscilla's death or interested in talking to the cops and that makes Gramps suspicious. Who DOESN'T Gramps suspect? Colin, however, indicates her knew and really liked Priscilla. Which is it? Is he uncaring or did he like her enough to want to steal her away from Jake? He shares an apartment with Jake, giving Colin access to Priscilla. The final suspect is Darrel Steinbach, a visting property developer and Hilda's love interest. Could Priscilla's death have something to do with the old Thompson place and the potential development deal Steinbach is in town to make? He seems like a smooth customer, a typical businessman but he isn't in the story enough to guess whether he could or did commit murder.
The locals are a mixed bag. Some are nice, like Erica. Ally's best friend is stressed taking care of two small children and a dog all day, trying to earn extra money on the side. She doesn't get a break. Her daughter is old enough for preschool. It sounds like they could afford it. It would at least give Erica a slight break. She still has her son, who is a toddler but there would be a light at the end of the tunnel. Her husband seems like a nice guy but I totally get why she was angry with him. Typical male behavior. I wouldn't marry someone who didn't and couldn't communicate with me or help out equally with childcare and housework. Rosie at the library encourages Oscar's sleuthing. WHY? She's a librarian and provides him with true crime books but also a lot of gossip. The other women in town seem like big gossips too. The mayor, Martha Conklin, is friends with Hilda and putting pressure on Noah to solve this case NOW! I don't like that sort of elected official. She changes her tune. First she says Ally didn't have anything to do with it but then it seems like she's eager to have Ally arrested just to solve the case.
Noah is a good guy but like his friend, can't communicate. Ally should ask him what his intentions are and if he can stop being an arrogant cop when they're together. He doesn't always treat her nicely when he's working. Noah also needs to understand that it's not Ally's responsibility to keep Gramps from sticking his nose in. Legacy House is his home and it's assisted living. If Ally lived there or if Gramps lived with Ally, that would be different. Until Oscar is diagnosed with dementia or unable to care for himself, he's responsible for his own actions. Noah needs to remember that and stop harassing Ally. Can't he see it makes her dig her heels in too and she'll defend Gramps to the death? If it comes down to Noah or Gramps, she'll choose Gramps!
This isn't my favorite series but it's not bad. I'd probably read more.
This story is light and funny. I enjoyed following the clues and red herrings but when all was revealed, none of it made sense. The motive came out of thin air and is bizarre. I don't see why the murderer had to actually murder people. It was all very strange. If you aren't into veterinary medicine, like me, you'll find some scenes too technical and graphic (TMI). I'd rather stick to Domino, Roxy and Bandit. Bandit's human reminds me of Mrs. Pumphrey in All Creatures Great and Small. I don't need the technical details about how Ally is treating animals, plus this may spread misinformation and lead to more harm than good.
The animals are pretty cute. Roxy, who doesn't have much to do because she's confined while Domino is in residence, is a sweetheart. She's energetic and needs a lot more exercise than Ally gives her. Dominic does as well. He's young and in serious need of training. I don't understand why she didn't put a halter on him. My brother's dog walks much better with the halter, otherwise she's walking ME. She's a little smaller than Domino but strong. Domino also sniffs out clues which seems ridiculous but I like it. He's not a trained police dog so perhaps he's just behaving badly and not actually sniffing clues. If he is, it doesn't make sense in every scene. Bandit is a sweet little LabraDane puppy in need of a home. He may be big but he's adorable and can easily be trained. Cat lovers note that the few cats in the story don't get the same treatment. One cat is badly behaved and the other one is better but in both cases, the humans treat their furbabies like human babies.
Ally is a good dog mom for the most part. She works hard with Domino and tries to minimize the amount of time the dogs are crated even though they destroy her waiting room. However, a vet should understand dog body language and see that the nipping and pulling is playful puppy behavior, not fighting. Some good training for BOTH dogs would make Ally's life easier. Perhaps one or both was taken away from their mother too soon and never learned manners.
The human characters are less appealing than the animals. Ally isn't bad but she doesn't have a strong personality. She's not bold enough or brave enough to go after what she needs or wants. Ally gives in to her grandfather, enabling him. She loves him dearly and doesn't want to see him hurt. She makes suggestions but he doesn't listen. Ally whines to her friend Erica about her love life but doesn't actually try to talk to Noah about his intentions. Erica, thankfully, posesses inside information. Gramps annoys the heck out of me. Obsessed with true crime, Oscar thinks he's better than the police. He's an elderly man (at 78) and doesn't have the stamina to take an active involvement in a murder investigation. He still thinks he can solve it before the police do though. I do think there's some merit to his crack brained theories though and I suspect he's right on the nose with his early guess. I also suspect Noah is thinking along the same lines. Oscar is so infernally stubborn! He resists doing the right thing, like physical therapy, yet wants to be doing things like helping Ally in the practice or solving crimes, and he just won't admit he shouldn't. He won't back down from going and doing what he wants in pursuit of answers. The information Oscar obtains won't hold up in court. He turns on the charm and gossips with the ladies in town. That's all he knows-heresay and gossip. It's lucky that some of it might turn out to be right.
The Willow Bluff Widows are starting to take shape in my mind. Harriet is the bossy matronly type. She loves to cook and take care of people. She's a bit bossy with her sister but she does seem to love her sister and means well. Tillie is a sweetheart for the most part but even she has her moments where she snaps and when she does, it's at Priscilla! Uh oh! I know Tillie would never hurt anyone even if she was unhappy with Priscilla's cleaning. Lydia is the quiet, thoughtful one. Ally's thoughts about Lydia's knitting were riude and unkind. I'm glad she didn't hurt the widow by voicing them outloud.
Priscilla Green was an angsty young woman. She wanted to be free from her mother's rules and restrictions- to go where she wanted, do what she wanted, be with who she wanted. Hilda is a tough mother. She kicked her own daughter out of the house for not following her rules. Priscilla is an adult and shouldn't be forced to follow childish rules. It's clearly made her act out and behave like a rebellious teen, even though she's in her early 20s. There's nothing wrong with her style choices. It's her life, her body, her choice and all the criticism of her style is uncalled for. Her colorful clothes, piercings and high heels aren't my thing but clearly Priscilla feels she can express herself that way. Or she's thumbing her nose at her mother. Priscilla may have been prickly and rebellious but she didn't deserve to die.
Who killed Priscilla? Judging from her mother's bizarre reaction to the news, I'd say Hilda was the chief suspect. Hilda didn't like it when Priscilla left home and was no longer under her control. Hilda would prefer a model daughter who reflected her image of the perfect city executive. I HATE controlling mothers and the clues do seem to point to her. Hilda even prefers Priscilla's own best friend, Marlie, to Priscilla. Marlie is very upset at Priscilla's death and is determined to protect Hilda and stand by her. Marlie seems a bit too perfect like a mean girl/cheerleader type. She works at the electronics store with Priscilla's boyfriend Jake and seems to know him well. Of course the police find that more often than not, women are murdered by their significant others so Jake is a person of interest as well. He seems young and immature. At first I assumed he got into a fight with Priscilla and killed her but once we see him, he doesn't seem the type. He's just a kid trying to earn enough money to live independently.
Gramps suspects Darla, the waitress at the cafe of wrongdoing. He thinks she's involved with the electronics store robbery just because she's wearing long sleeves on a hot day. He's crazy! Ally says Darla is really nice and a loving cat mom. Darla may be covering up tattoos on her arms that look unprofessional. There may be a good reason for long sleeves. She isn't an excellent server but she does her job and I see no reason for suspicion. He also suspects Steve Norris, another electronics store employee, of being involved in the robbery and perhaps Priscilla's death. Another young employee, Colin, didn't seem too broken up about Priscilla's death or interested in talking to the cops and that makes Gramps suspicious. Who DOESN'T Gramps suspect? Colin, however, indicates her knew and really liked Priscilla. Which is it? Is he uncaring or did he like her enough to want to steal her away from Jake? He shares an apartment with Jake, giving Colin access to Priscilla. The final suspect is Darrel Steinbach, a visting property developer and Hilda's love interest. Could Priscilla's death have something to do with the old Thompson place and the potential development deal Steinbach is in town to make? He seems like a smooth customer, a typical businessman but he isn't in the story enough to guess whether he could or did commit murder.
The locals are a mixed bag. Some are nice, like Erica. Ally's best friend is stressed taking care of two small children and a dog all day, trying to earn extra money on the side. She doesn't get a break. Her daughter is old enough for preschool. It sounds like they could afford it. It would at least give Erica a slight break. She still has her son, who is a toddler but there would be a light at the end of the tunnel. Her husband seems like a nice guy but I totally get why she was angry with him. Typical male behavior. I wouldn't marry someone who didn't and couldn't communicate with me or help out equally with childcare and housework. Rosie at the library encourages Oscar's sleuthing. WHY? She's a librarian and provides him with true crime books but also a lot of gossip. The other women in town seem like big gossips too. The mayor, Martha Conklin, is friends with Hilda and putting pressure on Noah to solve this case NOW! I don't like that sort of elected official. She changes her tune. First she says Ally didn't have anything to do with it but then it seems like she's eager to have Ally arrested just to solve the case.
Noah is a good guy but like his friend, can't communicate. Ally should ask him what his intentions are and if he can stop being an arrogant cop when they're together. He doesn't always treat her nicely when he's working. Noah also needs to understand that it's not Ally's responsibility to keep Gramps from sticking his nose in. Legacy House is his home and it's assisted living. If Ally lived there or if Gramps lived with Ally, that would be different. Until Oscar is diagnosed with dementia or unable to care for himself, he's responsible for his own actions. Noah needs to remember that and stop harassing Ally. Can't he see it makes her dig her heels in too and she'll defend Gramps to the death? If it comes down to Noah or Gramps, she'll choose Gramps!
This isn't my favorite series but it's not bad. I'd probably read more.
July 11, 2021
Tailing Trouble is the second installment in the A Furry Friends Mystery series featuring veterinarian Ally Winter and set in Willow Bluff, Wisconsin. Ally's vet business still isn't picking up so she's decided to take up more grooming and boarding and she finds herself taking care of Domino, a black standard poodle with zero obedience training.
Ally's grandfather, Oscar is still living at the Legacy house with the three widows. When Ally goes to pick him up to bring him to the library she runs into Pricilla Green, the twenty year old housekeeper with a bad attitude. Hours later when she's out taking Domino for a walk, he breaks away from Ally and runs into the woods, chasing the dog down she discovers the dead body of Pricilla lying under a tree.
Despite the objections of Detective Noah Jorgenson, Ally and Oscar team up to track down a killer. In addition to the recent murder there has also been a string of burglaries in Willow Bluff and Oscar is convinced the two mysteries are connected.
This series has so much potential, but unfortunately the writing is bogged down by the constant mention of Ally going to the Legacy House for meals, having to take the dogs for a walk, etc. and it can really wear on your nerves after a while. Plus, I can't imagine how she's staying in business when she barely seems to have one or two clients a week. The mysteries and plots are good, it's the rest that just needs a little fine tuning (and more furry friends). I'm not giving up yet!
I received an advanced copy of Tailing Trouble from NetGalley via Crooked Lane Books. While not required to write a review I am happy to offer my honest opnion.
Ally's grandfather, Oscar is still living at the Legacy house with the three widows. When Ally goes to pick him up to bring him to the library she runs into Pricilla Green, the twenty year old housekeeper with a bad attitude. Hours later when she's out taking Domino for a walk, he breaks away from Ally and runs into the woods, chasing the dog down she discovers the dead body of Pricilla lying under a tree.
Despite the objections of Detective Noah Jorgenson, Ally and Oscar team up to track down a killer. In addition to the recent murder there has also been a string of burglaries in Willow Bluff and Oscar is convinced the two mysteries are connected.
This series has so much potential, but unfortunately the writing is bogged down by the constant mention of Ally going to the Legacy House for meals, having to take the dogs for a walk, etc. and it can really wear on your nerves after a while. Plus, I can't imagine how she's staying in business when she barely seems to have one or two clients a week. The mysteries and plots are good, it's the rest that just needs a little fine tuning (and more furry friends). I'm not giving up yet!
I received an advanced copy of Tailing Trouble from NetGalley via Crooked Lane Books. While not required to write a review I am happy to offer my honest opnion.
January 13, 2022
I was happy to dive into Tailing Trouble, the follow up to "Dogged by Death", part of the Furry Friends Mystery series set in Willow Bluff, Wisconsin, featuring veterinarian, Ally Winter. I got to meet up with Ally again who had a challenging time, losing her fiancé, Tim Mathai, and her co-owned vets practice. Protagonist Ally had been living in Madison but moved back to Willow Bluff. Her granddad, Oscar has had surgery and needs some aftercare, so Ally has stepped in. Ally is continuing the process of building up her new practice, Furry Friends Veterinary Clinic in Willow Bluff as its sole owner. Ally is looking after Domino, a black standard poodle and on a walk along the shore of Lake Michigan, Domino runs off, returning with a red and white polka dot shoe. Ally recognises it as belonging to Pricilla Green, the young cleaner at Furry Friends and underneath a weeping willow, they find the shoe's pair, still attached to its owner's leg. Pricilla has a silk scarf around her neck.
This was an excellent, absorbing cozy mystery. Ally and her chirpy granddad, in particular, were great characters and excellent in their respective roles and of course, Roxy, Ally's boxer deserves a mention. With its injections of humour and splashes of romance, I enjoyed my time trying to solve the crime alongside Ally right up until the finale. I will be watching out for book three and look forward to spending more time with Ally, Oscar and the Willow Bluff Widows in Wisconsin.
I received a complimentary copy of this novel at my request from Crooked Lane Books via NetGalley. This review is my own unbiased opinion.
This was an excellent, absorbing cozy mystery. Ally and her chirpy granddad, in particular, were great characters and excellent in their respective roles and of course, Roxy, Ally's boxer deserves a mention. With its injections of humour and splashes of romance, I enjoyed my time trying to solve the crime alongside Ally right up until the finale. I will be watching out for book three and look forward to spending more time with Ally, Oscar and the Willow Bluff Widows in Wisconsin.
I received a complimentary copy of this novel at my request from Crooked Lane Books via NetGalley. This review is my own unbiased opinion.
June 30, 2021
Tailing Trouble by Laura Scott may be the second book in her cozy series, Furry Friends, but it can easily be read as a "stand alone" book.
With descriptive writing that allows the reader to be with Ally and Gramps while they "investigate", a few suspects that all had motives and a few twists for Ally and Gramps, this smoothly paced story was an entertaining and easy cozy read. Gramps steals the spotlight each time he's on the page and Ally's love and patience with him is heartwarming.
I voluntarily reviewed a digital Advance Reader Copy of this book from Crooked Lane Books via NetGalley. All of the above opinions are my own.
With descriptive writing that allows the reader to be with Ally and Gramps while they "investigate", a few suspects that all had motives and a few twists for Ally and Gramps, this smoothly paced story was an entertaining and easy cozy read. Gramps steals the spotlight each time he's on the page and Ally's love and patience with him is heartwarming.
I voluntarily reviewed a digital Advance Reader Copy of this book from Crooked Lane Books via NetGalley. All of the above opinions are my own.
February 18, 2022
With her grandfather in assisted living and newly purchased vet practice, Ally Winters has her hands full. Actually her appointment schedule has too many openings, but reining in her true crime addicted grandfather takes up a lot of time. He's convinced the local police absolutely need his help to solve a string of burglaries. And after the murder of a young woman who cleaned at his assisted living house, he goes into full gear to the displeasure is said policeman. Fast paced and sprinkled with cute animal stories circa quick enjoyable read. Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
January 4, 2022
Dr. Ally Winter, a veterinarian in Willow Bluff, Wisconsin, is walking Domino, a dog who is boarding with her, on the beach. The dog manages to escape Ally and soon returns with a shoe that she recognizes. Ally investigates and finds Pricilla Green dead under a willow. Ally’s grandfather loves true crime, and he cannot wait to sink his teeth into the case. Detective Noah Jorgenson, though, does not want Ally or Gramps’s help and warns them to keep their prying noses out of his case. Gramps has no intention of being sidelined. He believes that a rash of recent robberies ties in with Pricilla’s death. Ally and Gramps work to unravel the clues and rope a killer. The murderer does not wish to be caught and sets out to eliminate the snoopy sleuths. Can Ally and Gramps catch the conniving killer, or will they end up the next victims? Tailing Trouble by Laura Scott is the second book in A Furry Friends Mysteries. Tailing Trouble can be read as a standalone. The story has likeable characters especially Gramps. He is a hoot. I like the premise of a veterinarian who investigates crimes with her grandfather. However, I felt the story was bogged down with the day-to-day details of Ally’s life. Her visits to Legacy House to visit Gramps, partaking of the meals at Legacy House (or not because she does not want to gain too much weight), walking the dogs, taking Gramps to library, etc. I understand that she needs to walk the dogs, but the readers do not need to know each and every time that she does it. It becomes tedious after a while. Ally manages to get a patient or two. Ally is treating a cat and it scratches her. This makes Ally look like a bad vet. A good vet knows how to hold a cat properly to avoid getting scratched or bitten (at least the ones I have gone to know how to hold a cat properly). She has two dogs fighting in the clinic which results in her losing a client shows us again that she is not the best vet. I wish the author had showed Ally in a more professional light. She does manage to take her boarder dog, Domino in hand. I did find the interactions between Noah and Ally to be awkward and their dialogue stilted. The mystery was interesting. I wish there had been more investigation and less wild speculation (Gramps). I tired of Noah telling Ally and Gramps to stay out of the investigation. I like how everything tied together in the end, though, the ending was rushed. I am curious as to how Ally can keep her practice going with so few patients. She tells us often that she does not have patients (very true) and cannot afford a receptionist or assistant. I am curious how she can pay the bills with the one to two patients a week. Of course, if Ally’s business were not slow, she would not have time to take Gramps to lunch, the library, visit Legacy House, and solve crimes. This series still needs work (a few tweaks). Tailing Trouble is a lighthearted tale with a playful poodle, a rash of robberies, a dashing detective, an eager elder, flavorful feasts, and a curious killing.
January 3, 2022
Copy received via Netgalley for an honest review
I am a big, big fan of cozy mysteries, and throw in some puppers and you will get me one clicking like *clicks fingers* that.
Tailing Trouble have me vibes of the Cozy Corgi series by Mildred Abbott, with the doggies, and the love interest.
But to me it was just lacking something.
The mystery was good, and I didn't guess whodunnit until late in the game.
But Ally and her constantly telling us how she has not customers, she has to go look after the dogs, the always going to Gramps house for dinner, but whoops I have to go and walk the dogs. We get it, you had dogs to look after, we didn't need to hear about it every chapter.
And don't get me started on Gramps. I get it, he is supposed to be the kooky sidekick who helps solve the crime, but he was more of a hindrance, a pest and surely the man should be in gaol. Ugh. Is it bad that I wanted him to be the next victim?
I liked the spark between Ally and Noah, and I am interested to see what happens with them in the future.
So whilst I didn't love it, I enjoyed Tailing Trouble enough to read more in the future.
a>
I am a big, big fan of cozy mysteries, and throw in some puppers and you will get me one clicking like *clicks fingers* that.
Tailing Trouble have me vibes of the Cozy Corgi series by Mildred Abbott, with the doggies, and the love interest.
But to me it was just lacking something.
The mystery was good, and I didn't guess whodunnit until late in the game.
But Ally and her constantly telling us how she has not customers, she has to go look after the dogs, the always going to Gramps house for dinner, but whoops I have to go and walk the dogs. We get it, you had dogs to look after, we didn't need to hear about it every chapter.
And don't get me started on Gramps. I get it, he is supposed to be the kooky sidekick who helps solve the crime, but he was more of a hindrance, a pest and surely the man should be in gaol. Ugh. Is it bad that I wanted him to be the next victim?
I liked the spark between Ally and Noah, and I am interested to see what happens with them in the future.
So whilst I didn't love it, I enjoyed Tailing Trouble enough to read more in the future.
a>
August 24, 2021
*I received an ARC of this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review*
I fell for the cover when I applied to read this book on Netgalley. I was so happy I got to read this book because I love it! I love it when elderly play a role in Cozies. This book is the second one in this series and I now MUST read the first book. Our protagonist is veterinarian Ally Winter and she is accompanied by her Gramps who loves a good mystery and is more than eager to help when Ally, or better yet Domino, the dog she has for boarding, finds the body of Pricilla Green. This all much to the annoyance of Willow Bluff's finest--and handsomest--detective, Noah Jorgenson.
I love that the story isn't just about the murder, but we also get to meet some of the animals that visit the veterinary clinic. Only good endings!!! But the murder itself is a good one. You get thrown so many clues that you finally think you know who did it, only to find it..... they are not the murderer. I haven't read the first book yet, which I will, as I want to know more about the Widows that gramps live with. They seem like a bunch of nice ladies and I hope book one will give a bit more info on that.
I also loved the characters. They are all very sweet and loveable. But I really like Gramps! He is a hand full, pries into everything to find clues and has a theory about everything. And.... he is usually right!
The only fault I found, and I hope that will be corrected in the final version, is in Chapter Six right at the beginning there is a line "Marlie is such a sweet girl" Darlene said. But I think Darlene has to be Beverley as Gramps and Ally are talking to Beverly about Marlie, Darlene and Fred.
Other than that I really loved this book and I hope more will follow!
I fell for the cover when I applied to read this book on Netgalley. I was so happy I got to read this book because I love it! I love it when elderly play a role in Cozies. This book is the second one in this series and I now MUST read the first book. Our protagonist is veterinarian Ally Winter and she is accompanied by her Gramps who loves a good mystery and is more than eager to help when Ally, or better yet Domino, the dog she has for boarding, finds the body of Pricilla Green. This all much to the annoyance of Willow Bluff's finest--and handsomest--detective, Noah Jorgenson.
I love that the story isn't just about the murder, but we also get to meet some of the animals that visit the veterinary clinic. Only good endings!!! But the murder itself is a good one. You get thrown so many clues that you finally think you know who did it, only to find it..... they are not the murderer. I haven't read the first book yet, which I will, as I want to know more about the Widows that gramps live with. They seem like a bunch of nice ladies and I hope book one will give a bit more info on that.
I also loved the characters. They are all very sweet and loveable. But I really like Gramps! He is a hand full, pries into everything to find clues and has a theory about everything. And.... he is usually right!
The only fault I found, and I hope that will be corrected in the final version, is in Chapter Six right at the beginning there is a line "Marlie is such a sweet girl" Darlene said. But I think Darlene has to be Beverley as Gramps and Ally are talking to Beverly about Marlie, Darlene and Fred.
Other than that I really loved this book and I hope more will follow!
August 25, 2021
Ally Winter has moved back to her hometown of Willow Bluff to open a veterinary practice. She's got a motley crew of assistants made up of Gramps and the WBWs (Willow Bluff Widows) from the Legacy House. Priscilla Green whirls through Legacy House and raises a ruckus before turning up dead under a willow tree near the lake. Of course Gramps, the true-crime aficionado and would-be detective, is immediately on the case coming up with one theory after another, each more outlandish than the last.
I really enjoy this series. One thing I like about cozies is that although there are murders occurring the stories are mostly very innocent. The people are sweet and even the curmudgeons are generally charming in their own way. There's always an adorable pet, usually a pitiful rescue. The setting is always delightful, whether it's a bucolic, cozy town or a debonair, cultured city. This series embodies all those things, with Gramps shouting into his cell phone, Roxy heeling like a champ, and Willow Bluff providing Ally with everything she needs, just when she needs it. Ally certainly has her challenges in Willow Bluff, but the whole atmosphere is one of innocent comfort (murder notwithstanding). I highly recommend this series to any mystery buff who wants to read something super cozy.
Thank you to NetGalley for providing me with an ARC.
I really enjoy this series. One thing I like about cozies is that although there are murders occurring the stories are mostly very innocent. The people are sweet and even the curmudgeons are generally charming in their own way. There's always an adorable pet, usually a pitiful rescue. The setting is always delightful, whether it's a bucolic, cozy town or a debonair, cultured city. This series embodies all those things, with Gramps shouting into his cell phone, Roxy heeling like a champ, and Willow Bluff providing Ally with everything she needs, just when she needs it. Ally certainly has her challenges in Willow Bluff, but the whole atmosphere is one of innocent comfort (murder notwithstanding). I highly recommend this series to any mystery buff who wants to read something super cozy.
Thank you to NetGalley for providing me with an ARC.
January 11, 2022
I would like to thank Netgalley, Crooked Lane Books and Laura Scott for the e arc copy of this book. Publication date is the 11th of January 2022.
I really enjoyed this cosy mystery. This is the 2nd book in the series, I haven’t read the first book and didn’t feel that I had missed anything by no having done so.
We meet Ally, who has taken over the veterinarian practise in her home town of Willow Bluff, Wisconsin. As well as her vet work, she also does pet grooming and boarding. One of her clients asks her to have her Poodle, called Domino, for a weekend, Ally agrees. Domino has a mind of his own and on a walk by Lake Michigan he runs off. When Ally finds him, he has found the body of a local 20-year-old girl.
Local law enforcement Noah is soon investigating, but Ally’s Grandpa thinks he needs to aid him. Could it be that grandpa is on the train quicker than Noah? Can Ally help him stay out of trouble?
I liked the characters very much and the situations they were in were well thought out and developed. I particularly liked that we saw both sides of Ally’s life, her vet work and helping Grandpa.
A good cosy mystery and I will be continuing with this series.
I really enjoyed this cosy mystery. This is the 2nd book in the series, I haven’t read the first book and didn’t feel that I had missed anything by no having done so.
We meet Ally, who has taken over the veterinarian practise in her home town of Willow Bluff, Wisconsin. As well as her vet work, she also does pet grooming and boarding. One of her clients asks her to have her Poodle, called Domino, for a weekend, Ally agrees. Domino has a mind of his own and on a walk by Lake Michigan he runs off. When Ally finds him, he has found the body of a local 20-year-old girl.
Local law enforcement Noah is soon investigating, but Ally’s Grandpa thinks he needs to aid him. Could it be that grandpa is on the train quicker than Noah? Can Ally help him stay out of trouble?
I liked the characters very much and the situations they were in were well thought out and developed. I particularly liked that we saw both sides of Ally’s life, her vet work and helping Grandpa.
A good cosy mystery and I will be continuing with this series.
November 4, 2021
This is a wonderful cozy series featuring a veterinarian as the protagnist . I enjoyed this next in series with smart charcters and a fun sleuth. Thank you to NetGalley and to the publisher. My review opinion is my own.
Tailing Trouble is Furry Friends Mystery number Two . I highly recommend this series.
Dr. Ally Winter, DVM is living back in her hometown of of Willow Bluff, Wisconsin to open a new practice and be with her grandfather. Ally is out walking a poodle she is boarding when he finds a dead body. Her Grandfather has a interest in crime and wants to investigate with her. Grandpa is funny and a great addition to this series. He lives in assisted living and does not let his age slow him down. Ally is rebuilding her life , rebuking advances from a old love interest and loves working with her patients. The sleuth was fun and well crafted to conclusion. A fun second in series and I look forward to the next in series.
Tailing Trouble is Furry Friends Mystery number Two . I highly recommend this series.
Dr. Ally Winter, DVM is living back in her hometown of of Willow Bluff, Wisconsin to open a new practice and be with her grandfather. Ally is out walking a poodle she is boarding when he finds a dead body. Her Grandfather has a interest in crime and wants to investigate with her. Grandpa is funny and a great addition to this series. He lives in assisted living and does not let his age slow him down. Ally is rebuilding her life , rebuking advances from a old love interest and loves working with her patients. The sleuth was fun and well crafted to conclusion. A fun second in series and I look forward to the next in series.
June 19, 2021
Ally Winter has settled into life back in Willow Bluff. Her veterinary practice is growing and life is good. When she takes one of the dogs she is boarding for a walk, the dog runs off and comes back with a woman’s shoe. Ally tracks the dog’s prints and finds a young woman wearing the other shoe, strangled beneath a tree.
Noah is on the case as the local detective, but Gramps can’t seem to leave it alone and begins digging around on his own. Even after Noah warms Gramps and Ally to leave it alone, they just can’t walk away. Now it’s a race to the finish and could be the end of the line for them if they don’t watch their step.
Any series with animals is likely to be a favorite of mine. This added to the solid mystery and likable characters will leave you wanting more like I do. What I wouldn’t give to have the opportunity to go home and spend time with my own Gramps once again. At least I can live through books, which have been a godsend during the pandemic and continue to bring me much needed respites from reality at times.
Noah is on the case as the local detective, but Gramps can’t seem to leave it alone and begins digging around on his own. Even after Noah warms Gramps and Ally to leave it alone, they just can’t walk away. Now it’s a race to the finish and could be the end of the line for them if they don’t watch their step.
Any series with animals is likely to be a favorite of mine. This added to the solid mystery and likable characters will leave you wanting more like I do. What I wouldn’t give to have the opportunity to go home and spend time with my own Gramps once again. At least I can live through books, which have been a godsend during the pandemic and continue to bring me much needed respites from reality at times.
January 11, 2022
Trailing Trouble is the second book in the A Furry Friends Mystery series by Laura Scott.
Ally Winters’ veterinarian clinic business is picking up, but not as quickly as she would like or needs. Meanwhile, grandpa, Oscar, is recovering from his hip surgery and is still living at Legacy House and living with three widows who enjoy doting over him. Much to Ally’s chagrin, he is still reading many true crime books and watching police shows on TV. When Oscar learns about a string of robberies at the local big box store, he immediately wants Ally to help him try and solve this recent string of thefts. Ally is able to put him off.
While walking a Standard Poodle, Domino is being kenneled at her clinic, and Domino breaks away. When Ally catches up with Domino, he comes to her and drops a high heel shoe at her feet. Domino drags Ally to a willow tree, where she finds the body of a teenage girl, Pricilla, strangled with a colorful scarf. Ally identifies her as the girl that cleaned at Legacy House once a week. When Detective Noah Jorgenson arrives at the scene, he isn’t surprised that Ally has found another body. Once again, Noah tells Ally that she and Oscar need to stay out of his investigation. After learning of the death, Oscar wants to do the first thing he and Ally to investigate. Oscar is sure that the recent string of thefts at the big box store is related to the death of Pricilla, and they will start their investigation. They will soon have several suspects, including the mother of Pricilla.
I’m enjoying this young series. The story is well-written, plotted, and moves at a good pace. The cast of characters is well-developed and very believable. I particularly enjoy the widows and how they try to up one another for Oscar’s attention. Now Oscar, their times I would like to smack him up against the head for not listening to Ally and Noah. But the next moment I’m chuckling at his comments and actions. I found the interaction of Rozy and Domino to be interesting too.
I’ll be watching for the next book in the series.
Ally Winters’ veterinarian clinic business is picking up, but not as quickly as she would like or needs. Meanwhile, grandpa, Oscar, is recovering from his hip surgery and is still living at Legacy House and living with three widows who enjoy doting over him. Much to Ally’s chagrin, he is still reading many true crime books and watching police shows on TV. When Oscar learns about a string of robberies at the local big box store, he immediately wants Ally to help him try and solve this recent string of thefts. Ally is able to put him off.
While walking a Standard Poodle, Domino is being kenneled at her clinic, and Domino breaks away. When Ally catches up with Domino, he comes to her and drops a high heel shoe at her feet. Domino drags Ally to a willow tree, where she finds the body of a teenage girl, Pricilla, strangled with a colorful scarf. Ally identifies her as the girl that cleaned at Legacy House once a week. When Detective Noah Jorgenson arrives at the scene, he isn’t surprised that Ally has found another body. Once again, Noah tells Ally that she and Oscar need to stay out of his investigation. After learning of the death, Oscar wants to do the first thing he and Ally to investigate. Oscar is sure that the recent string of thefts at the big box store is related to the death of Pricilla, and they will start their investigation. They will soon have several suspects, including the mother of Pricilla.
I’m enjoying this young series. The story is well-written, plotted, and moves at a good pace. The cast of characters is well-developed and very believable. I particularly enjoy the widows and how they try to up one another for Oscar’s attention. Now Oscar, their times I would like to smack him up against the head for not listening to Ally and Noah. But the next moment I’m chuckling at his comments and actions. I found the interaction of Rozy and Domino to be interesting too.
I’ll be watching for the next book in the series.
March 16, 2022
Although I like Ally’s Gramps, he was a nagging pest which was a bit annoying, I find. Poor Ally found it was no use trying to stop him from interfering in the ongoing murder investigations.
Noah now, the poor guy was in a spot, with his attraction to Ally and her interfering busybody grandfather in the mix, he had to tread carefully. A great story but annoying nonetheless.
Noah now, the poor guy was in a spot, with his attraction to Ally and her interfering busybody grandfather in the mix, he had to tread carefully. A great story but annoying nonetheless.
December 25, 2021
I really loved the first book and this second one, Tailing Trouble, was as good. I give this one 5 stars.
When thirty-something veterinarian Ally Winter takes Domino, the black standard poodle she's boarding for the weekend, for a sunny September stroll along the shore of Lake Michigan, the diminutive dog dashes off, only to return with a single, polka-dotted, high-heeled shoe. Retracing Domino's paw prints back to a weeping willow tree, they find the other shoe. It's still on the foot of 20-year-old Pricilla Green--lying dead beneath the willow, with a silk scarf knotted tightly around her neck.
What I love most is that the book is well-written and all the characters are loveable (even grumpy Gramps).
The widows, Ally, Noah and of course all the cute animals!
Except for the sleuthing I really like reading about Ally's job as a veterinarian, something I have never read about in a cozy mystery before. I am already eager to read the third book and hope Ally can make a more profitable business.
This book kept me entertained throughout the entire mystery but the ending was a bit too rushed in my opinion. I wanna fell excited and bite my nails in anticipation when the bad guy(s) is being discovered and eventually getting caught by the sleuth when I read a cozy mystery. However the ending in this book was over too fast and left me wanting more.
Thank you Net Galley and Crooked Lane Books for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
When thirty-something veterinarian Ally Winter takes Domino, the black standard poodle she's boarding for the weekend, for a sunny September stroll along the shore of Lake Michigan, the diminutive dog dashes off, only to return with a single, polka-dotted, high-heeled shoe. Retracing Domino's paw prints back to a weeping willow tree, they find the other shoe. It's still on the foot of 20-year-old Pricilla Green--lying dead beneath the willow, with a silk scarf knotted tightly around her neck.
What I love most is that the book is well-written and all the characters are loveable (even grumpy Gramps).
The widows, Ally, Noah and of course all the cute animals!
Except for the sleuthing I really like reading about Ally's job as a veterinarian, something I have never read about in a cozy mystery before. I am already eager to read the third book and hope Ally can make a more profitable business.
This book kept me entertained throughout the entire mystery but the ending was a bit too rushed in my opinion. I wanna fell excited and bite my nails in anticipation when the bad guy(s) is being discovered and eventually getting caught by the sleuth when I read a cozy mystery. However the ending in this book was over too fast and left me wanting more.
Thank you Net Galley and Crooked Lane Books for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
February 2, 2022
This book was really good! The second in the Furry Friends Mystery series by Laura Scott, this story was especially well written and well paced, entertaining and incredibly hard to put down. Much better than expected! Well worth the time to read.
January 13, 2022
Once again, Laura Scott has crafted a fun cozy mystery! Dr. Ally Winter is a great and realistic protagonist. I love the setting/theme of the vet clinic. Her relationship to her grandfather and the WBWs (Willow Bluff Widows) are lovely. This mystery was well paced and fun to follow. I cannot wait for the next book!
Thank you to NetGalley and Crooked Lane Books for providing an eARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
Thank you to NetGalley and Crooked Lane Books for providing an eARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
March 26, 2022
This is the second book in the series but my first. I had no issues understanding character backstories. The characters are entertaining and lovable. I have to admit I could really relate to Ally’s struggles walking Domino. I always enjoy a book when I can relate to an issue they are dealing with or a character’s personality. The mystery is well-plotted with plenty of suspects and plot twist to keep you guessing. I am looking forward to reading more in this series.
All thoughts and opinions are my own, and in no way have I been influenced by anyone.
All thoughts and opinions are my own, and in no way have I been influenced by anyone.
January 12, 2022
When I get to the end of a book and tell myself, "Oh wow, that was so good!" I know I've found a winner. I remember doing that same thing at the end of the first book in this series when I read it too. I absolutely just love Gramps' character! Maybe it's because I've been without my own grandpa for so long that I just devour anything that has to do with an awesome grandpa/granddaughter duo. I had to laugh at different parts when he'd make Ally pick him up, or she'd give in going somewhere knowing he'd find a way to get to wherever it was he wanted to investigate anyway. The running joke of him shouting into his cell phone might seem corny, but it makes me giggle! He should probably just get a bullhorn and stand outside to call to Ally, lol.
I get such a kick out of the widows fawning all over Gramps in a friendly competition for his attention. It's cute how he's got a different way he interacts with each of the ladies living at Legacy House, like playing cards with Tillie. I think if I was Ally, I'd be eating every meal I posssibly could there, lol. Harriet definitely knows how to feed her guests and seems to thrive on doing that. And Lydia's a whiz with her knitting.
The stories about Ally's clients and their pets are always entertaining, and I found out it pays to read carefully and not just skim these as not being related to the mystery. Sometimes someone who's a client might end up being someone to pay attention to in the mystery--or a client knows a key player in the mystery. Now Gramps, he just seems to know everyone! ;)
The showdown was really exciting and I loved how Ally got the upperhand, and sweet Domino ended up being a hero. I nearly expected Ally to end up with three dogs by the time this was over, but everything worked out great. As to whether she'll get to enjoy a nice date with "her detective" as Gramps was so fond of calling him, well I'm just hoping the next book will address all that and he doesn't get called away!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an ARC of this book provided by the publisher via NetGalley, and my opinions are my own.
I get such a kick out of the widows fawning all over Gramps in a friendly competition for his attention. It's cute how he's got a different way he interacts with each of the ladies living at Legacy House, like playing cards with Tillie. I think if I was Ally, I'd be eating every meal I posssibly could there, lol. Harriet definitely knows how to feed her guests and seems to thrive on doing that. And Lydia's a whiz with her knitting.
The stories about Ally's clients and their pets are always entertaining, and I found out it pays to read carefully and not just skim these as not being related to the mystery. Sometimes someone who's a client might end up being someone to pay attention to in the mystery--or a client knows a key player in the mystery. Now Gramps, he just seems to know everyone! ;)
The showdown was really exciting and I loved how Ally got the upperhand, and sweet Domino ended up being a hero. I nearly expected Ally to end up with three dogs by the time this was over, but everything worked out great. As to whether she'll get to enjoy a nice date with "her detective" as Gramps was so fond of calling him, well I'm just hoping the next book will address all that and he doesn't get called away!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an ARC of this book provided by the publisher via NetGalley, and my opinions are my own.
June 14, 2024
Very enjoyable! Wish there were more books in this series!
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