The Bark of Zorro

Gone to the Dogs #4

by Kathleen Y'Barbo

Who Is Spray Painting the Dogs in Brenham, Texas?
 
Cozy up with your favorite pooch and unwind with a small-town mystery in book 4 of the Gone to the Dogs series.
 
Strange happenings are afoot in Brenham, Texas, as dogs start showing up at the Lone Star Veterinary Clinic with a Z spray painted on them. The cops blame pranksters, while pet owners are blaming each other. Receptionist Cassidy Carter uses her social media expertise to try to get the culprit caught on camera, but Texas game warden, Jason Cameron, thinks online media attention is the last thing this case needs. It’s bad enough he’s currently being followed around by reality TV cameras. When Cassidy’s post goes viral, more dogs are found painted and her new home gets marked with a big Z too. How could her good intentions have backfired so badly?

Gone to the Dogs
Off the Chain by Janice Thompson
Dog Days of Summer by Kathleen Y’Barbo
Barking up the Wrong Tree by Janice Thompson
The Bark of Zorro by Kathleen Y’Barbo
Every Dog Has His Day by Janice Thompson
New Leash on Life by Kathleen Y’Barbo

Genres: Mystery, Cozy Mystery, Christian Fiction, Fiction, Christian, Romance

258 pages, Kindle Edition

First published April 1, 2023

About the author

Publishers Weekly bestselling author Kathleen Y’Barbo is a multiple Carol Award and RITA nominee of more than one hundred novels with almost two million copies in print in the US and abroad.

A tenth-generation Texan and certified paralegal, she has been nominated for a Career Achievement Award as well a Reader’s Choice Award and is the winner of the Inspirational Romance of the Year by Romantic Times magazine.

To connect with her through social media, check out the links on her website at www.kathleenybarbo.com.

Reviews

[Lindsey (Books for Christian Girls) · Rating 4 out of 5]

(very easily) 4 stars, personally.

Here’s a new trope for everyone: “He’s no nonsense, She’s full-of-nonsense (in the best way)”, or I guess we could call it the Grumpy/Sunshine trope, but I feel like my new trope fits better. :)


About this book:

“Who Is Spray Painting the Dogs in Brenham, Texas?
Cozy up with your favorite pooch and unwind with a small-town mystery in book 4 of the Gone to the Dogs series.
Strange happenings are afoot in Brenham, Texas, as dogs start showing up at the Lone Star Veterinary Clinic with a Z spray painted on them. The cops blame pranksters, while pet owners are blaming each other. Receptionist Cassidy Carter uses her social media expertise to try to get the culprit caught on camera, but Texas game warden, Justin Cameron, thinks online media attention is the last thing this case needs. When Cassidy’s post goes viral, more dogs are found painted and the clinic gets marked with a big Z too. How could her good intentions have backfired so badly?”


Series: Book #4 in the “Gone to the Dogs Mystery” series. Can be read as stand-alones, but would be most enjoyed if read in order. Reviews of Book #1 Here!, Book #2 Here!, and Book #3 Here!


Spiritual Content- A Scripture is quoted & read; Prayers & Thanking God; Mentions of God & having a faith; Mentions of prayers, praying, & thanking God; Mentions of churches, church going, & a pastor; A mention of a blessing;
*Note: A couple mentions of aliens.


Negative Content- Minor cussing including: a ‘blasted’, a ‘care one flip [for something]’, a form of ‘darn’, a ‘oh my gosh’, two ‘dumb’s, two ‘ticked off’s, four ‘idiot’s, and seven ‘stupid’s; Some sarcasm & eye rolling; Being threatened; Mentions of crimes, criminals, crime scenes, breaking the law, & arrests; Mentions of jails/prisons & jailtime; Mentions of a man almost getting hit by a car; Mentions of a funeral home & bodies; Mentions of graffiti/vandalism; Mentions of pranks; Mentions of an accident involved a dog & a dog going missing (all dogs are okay); A couple mentions of a drowning; A couple mentions of the possibility of a crook or murderer (Cassidy’s imagination); A couple mentions of being threatened; A couple mentions of hunting; A mention of someone possibly being killed by a taser; A mention of someone not appearing to be a serial killer; A mention of a possible hostage situation; A mention of lies; A mention of bullies (& them rhyming “Cass” with other insulting words); A mention of someone winning the lottery;
*Note: Mentions of TV shows, movies, actors, & fictional characters (Downtown Abbey, Scooby-Doo, Zorro, & Douglas Fairbanks); Mentions of social media sites & technology (Instagram, TikTok, Zoom, FaceTime, & AirTags); Mentions of singers & songs (Dean Martin, Frank Sinatra, Elvis, & Miranda Lambert); A few mentions of Boy Scouts & Girl Scouts; A couple mentions of two women arguing and one blaming the Democrats for dogs getting painted and the other blaming the Republicans (they conceded it could have been the Independents and then say it could be anymore painting the dogs);A couple mentions of fast food places (McDonald’s & Chick-fil-A); A couple mentions of newspapers.


Sexual Content- Two cheek kisses, a not-detailed kiss, five barely-above-not-detailed kiss, and a border-line barely-above-not-detailed // semi-detailed kiss; Embraces, Hand holding, & Nearness (barely-above-not-detailed); Noticing & Smelling (barely-above-not-detailed); Mentions of kisses & kissing; Mentions of dates, dating, boyfriends/girlfriends, break-ups, & exes; Mentions of crushes; Mentions of a cute/handsome/gorgeous/hunky guy; A mention of a wink; Love, falling in love, & the emotions.

-Cassidy Carter
1st person P.O.V. of Cassidy
258 pages

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Pre Teens- One Star
New Teens- Two Stars
Early High School Teens- Three Stars
Older High School Teens- Four Stars
My personal Rating- Four Stars

Here’s a new trope for everyone: “He’s no nonsense, She’s full-of-nonsense (in the best way)”, or I guess we could call it the Grumpy/Sunshine trope, but I feel like my new trope fits better. That said, I wasn’t sure how this couple would work out with his over-the-top protectiveness, but I really appreciate that they had to have an actual conversation about that. It was nice to see quick communication.

This really was a fun book, though! This whole series has been so much fun and I loved finally getting to know the sunshine of the Lone Star Vet Clinic, Cassidy, better. While the mystery elements weren’t my top favorite of the series, it still kept me engaged and wondering who had done it. My only one nitpick would be that I do wish there was more faith content as this book was on the lighter side in that regard, but overall it was a really enjoyable and clean read!


Link to review:
https://booksforchristiangirls.blogsp...


*BFCG may (Read the review to see) recommend this book by this author. It does not mean I recommend all the books by this author.
*I received this book for free from the Publisher (Barbour) for this honest review.

[Amanda (BookLoverAmanda) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Who is spray painting the dogs in Brenham, Texas? That’s what Cassidy and Jason are going to try and find out in book #4 in the Gone to the Dogs book series. I’ve thoroughly enjoyed this series as each book is always a cozy read with a little bit of romance. They’re just a good time!

In this book, dogs start showing up at the Lone Star Veterinary Clinic spray painted with the letter Z on them. Cassidy works at the clinic and she is trying to solve this mystery using social media and her own investigating. Then we have a handsome Game Warden, Jason Saye who comes in to help. He also has reality TV cameras following him around and that makes for some awkward situations🤣 Cassidy and Jason form a little romance, go on a couple dates, all while trying to figure out this little mystery.

I really liked Cassidy in this book- she is definitely a favorite character. I didn’t love Jason as much throughout the story but he grew on me. I loved their first date experience, I haven’t seen that in a book before. The mystery in this one was interesting and I really liked the ending. Excited to get to the next book. Thank you to the publisher for providing an e-book copy to honestly read and review.

[Kimberly · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is the fourth in a series of books about a Texas veterinary clinic and dog rescue and the people who work there. I have read the three other books and was not disappointed by this one, which focuses on the office manager and her love for dogs and a developing fondness for a handsome Texas Game Warden. These stories are refreshing to read and the plots are strong enough to keep you involved. A satisfying read.

My thanks to the author, Kathleen Y'Barbo, and the publisher, Barbour Publishing, for my e copy of this book. #Goodreads Giveaway

[Staci · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another cute cozy mystery in this series set in Brenham, Texas and centered around dog rescues.

In The Bark of Zorro, veterinary office manager and dog rescue volunteer Cassidy goes out on a rescue in the dark and rain. She makes the rescue and then discovers there is a large "Z" painted on the side of the dog. Unraveling the mystery was a twisted road. Along the way, Cassidy meets Jason, a Texas Game Warden, who also wants to solve the case.

Loved the Scooby Doo mystery references and the area/historical details the author added in to the novel. Small town Brenham is home to Blue Bell Ice Cream, a beloved favorite in Texas.

I look forward to the next in the series.

My gratitude to publisher Barbour for a complimentary NetGalley copy of the novel. I was not required to post a review and all opinions expressed are my own.

[Sarita · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was another adorable cozy mystery featuring some bark-able characters.

Readers who enjoy mysteries but avoid the action and gore of suspense should enjoy this book and the series. The mystery was interesting and kept me engaged right till the end. The sweet romances with some furry friends in the middle were also sweet.

The series covers various of characters who works for the same animal shelter and vet clinic, but each book can be read as a standalone. Some characters appear throughout the series and if you don’t like spoilers, then I would suggest reading the series in order.

*I received a complimentary copy from the publisher. All opinions expressed are my own.*

[Faith · Rating 5 out of 5]

When dogs start showing up with a strange marking painted on them, Cassidy is determined to get to the bottom of it.

A fast paced cozy mystery, with an engaging plot and wonderful characters. I loved seeing the familiar faces from previous books, as well as meeting Jason a game warden who helps Cassidy with the case. It was fun seeing Jason and Cassidy's chemistry in front of the camera, as well as how well they work together despite their differing opinions.

An enjoyable book from beginning to end, filled with action, mystery, and adventure. Such a fun read, with great characters, and a riveting plot that kept me guessing throughout. Definitely worth picking up!

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

[Ailey Leman · Rating 4 out of 5]

**3.5 stars**

[Valerie · Rating 3 out of 5]

I enjoyed this book mostly. I liked the characters especially the dogs. I think the reveal of the bad guy is disappointing, missing the details, who is he, he’s not mentioned in the entire book. Explain his reasoning a little better and more lead up to who it is. #TheBarkofZorro #NetGalley

[Yvette]

If you are in the mood for a light, fun cozy mystery with dogs and romance between a strait laced Texas game warden and an office manager who doesn’t really listen when told to sit and stay away from danger, then The Bark of Zorro by Kathleen Y’Barbo is the book for you. Book four of the Gone to the Dogs Mysteries, the mystery surrounding dogs painted with a letter Z is complicated by multiple suspects, unknown motives, and a reality TV crew.

Veterinary clinic manager and dog rescue volunteer Cassidy Carter narrates as the story unfolds. With the help of friends and instinct to guide her, Cassidy is unrelenting in her pursuit of the answer to who is painting dogs with Z’s. This does cause her relationship with Jason Saye to hit a few bumps, though they manage to keep those off camera, especially when danger escalates and he tells her to leave the investigating to the professionals.

With recurring characters from the previous books in the series, you might want to consider reading them in order and meeting Mari, Trina, and Kristin in their own books. But encountering them in this story first shouldn’t be too much of a spoiler.

Cozy small town mystery with a dash of faith and a dose of light romance - The Bark of Zorro is one you’ll want to curl up with for a while.

This review refers to a paperback copy that I voluntarily received and read, courtesy of the publisher. A positive review was not required and all opinions expressed are my own.

[Tari · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was another sweet addition to this cute cozy mystery series that so far hasn't had any murder, but it's always a good mystery. I'm enjoying how the characters have had turns being the main character and first person narrator of the story. This time it was Cassidy Carter, the vet clinic's receptionist and Mari Evans's best friend.

It was a good, twisty mystery as well as super sweet when Cassidy found a nice guy as well as an awesome new home. There was a good side mystery about the building Cassidy and her friend Nora were buying, but that was resolved nicely too. I'm eager to see Cassidy and Jason enjoy a nice relationship. Now she's got someone to go to Mari's wedding with!

I voluntarily read and reviewed an ARC of this book provided by Barbour Publishing via NetGalley, and my opinions are my own.

[Jessica · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Bark of Zorro is another wonderful installment in the “Gone to the Dogs” mysteries series. Readers will enjoy the mystery plot line as well as the antics of the dogs, rescuers, veterinarians, and the game warden. A little bit of romance sprinkled into this mystery, and it is a “pawsatively” perfect literary escape. I honestly was not sure who could be behind the mystery, and the author did well concealing their identity and then revealing it all in the end. I would love to see the Mercer Building upper level in person, because the descriptions of the space made me want to know if my mental image was real. I highly recommend this book for anyone who loves dogs, sweet mysteries, or just a nice book.

I requested and received a copy of this book for review. The words and thoughts expressed here are wholly my own.

[Chloe Knauf · Rating 3 out of 5]

Hmm. I found my self getting bored... It took me so long to finish it my sister was like, "you're still reading that?"

[Ashley · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was another fun addition to the series. I was excited for Cassidy to get her own story. She's relatable, kind, and has a strong faith that I admired. The mystery she stumbles upon is a head-scratcher. Why are dogs showing up all over town with the letter "Z" painted on them? I was eager to figure out what was really going on.

There's a new game warden in town who added an interesting new element to things. I didn't know what to think of Jason at first. He was very serious, gruff, and a strict rule follower. He's pretty much Cassidy's opposite, so I was unsure about the prospect of a romance between the two. But by the end of the story, I came to understand him and ended up liking him.

Even though this is book four, it works just fine as a standalone. I recommend it to anyone who enjoys light cozy mysteries.

I received an advanced copy of this book via NetGalley and voluntarily reviewed it. All thoughts and comments are my honest opinion.

[Stanley McShane · Rating 4 out of 5]

Read my full review on Rosepoint Publishing.

The main character, Cassidy Carter, is the Lone Star Veterinary Clinic’s office manager involved in the Second Chance Ranch Dog Rescue and is called out for rescue of a dog found to have a “Z” painted on his side.

The romance interest is game warden Justin Cameron who is participating in a reality show. I liked the dogs in the storyline as well as the inclusion of humorous highlights, not so much Justin. He bothered me as being too hovering and controlling, and for me red flags popped up. Not so for Cassidy apparently as, of course, he is gorgeous, sexy, and studly.

In the meantime, more than one dog sporting a “Z” is discovered and together (sort of) gather resources to find the perp. I had a little problem with the reveal—another of those who do not appear in the plot throughout the book and no way to have guessed.

The pacing is good and it’s wholesome. Cassidy tends to issue CYA regarding her position being “just an office manager” but is otherwise an engaging protagonist. The setting is interesting, the support characters entertaining, and I’ll likely seek a second in the series.

I received a complimentary review copy of this book from the author and publisher through @NetGalley that in no way influenced this review. These are my honest thoughts.

[Donna Metler · Rating 4 out of 5]

I recieved a free eARC of this book. Thank you for the opportunity to read it.

If you want a very, very light mystery with no graphic content (the whole mystery involves "who is kidnapping dogs, painting a Z on them, and releasing them) with similarly light romance, this is the book for you. It's not Agatha Christie. But it's a fun read, and would be a nice introduction for younger readers into the Cozy mystery genre. There is no inappropriate content, making this book a nice addition to school and community libraries.

[Susan Faloon · Rating 4 out of 5]

I think this is such an entertaining series. I have enjoyed each book so far. It is a plus that each author of a team keeps the stories blended and moving smoothly. You could easily think one author wrote them all.
There is a good mystery here that was tricky and well done. As with each book there is great laugh-out-loud humor and a 'budding' romance.
Someone has sprayed the letter Z on a dog that comes under the care of Lone Star Clinic's receptionist, Cassidy Carter. She is on a mission to learn who would do such a thing and where the dog belongs. She meets a game warden, Justin Cameron, who is followed on a television reality show before he becomes part of the investigation. There is a mutual attraction between the two.
I liked this story and want to thank the publisher and NetGalley for my advanced reader's copy. This is my own unsolicited opinion. Cassidy has been a main stay character thought out the series. She is the perfect lead for this story. Justin is a good character. In all honesty I didn't particularly like that his character immediately assumes an overprotective attitude toward Cassidy. I so look forward to the next book in the series.

[Barbara Brewer · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoy like cozy mysteries. This one was just cure. I like how they' work together to help figure out who paint one of thre dogs and painted a Z on that dog. It goes to show I'd you put trust I'm people you succeed and be happy. This book was approved by netgalley and the publisher for me to read and review

[Becky · Rating 5 out of 5]

PLEASE READ THIS REVIEW ON MY BLOG: https://bookreadingtic.com/2023/04/01... THANK YOU!

Z Marks the Spot!

Cassidy is alone on a very dark, stormy night in a deserted area looking for a stray dog. She is a volunteer at the local dog rescue, along with the office manager of a veterinary clinic.

Flashes of lightning reveal the dog who is scared and wet. Cassidy scoops the dog up, gets in her van, and takes off before a creepy figure in black catches up to her.

While cleaning Spot, as Cassidy names her, she discovers that someone put a lot of white paint on the animal. Cassidy is so incensed by it that she vows to find the one behind it. Finding Spot also causes Cassidy to meet Justin, the handsome game warden, who comes to investigate her.

Justin is a no-nonsense lawman who tells her he will cite her if she attempts to drive since her license just expired. He also asks her out! Despite them having a great date, things start falling apart when more painted dogs start showing up. Cassidy wants to investigate and Justin thinks only the authorities should be involved. Will this cause their new relationship to fall apart? Red herrings and clues abound.

Humor and a serious mystery combine to make a fun, clean tale. Lots of twists and suspects will keep you trying to guess who is behind it all. This story stands alone despite being part of a series, and includes the character's faith. You will enjoy this five-star book. It is recommended to fans of mysteries, contemporary stories, and fun!

Thank you, Barbour Publishing, for providing Tickmenot with a book to review. Opinions are my own.

[Becksreadingbooks · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed the book, even though I hadn't read the first three of the cozy mystery series, Gone to The Dogs.

I really enjoyed Cassidy Carter, who is the main character. She was fun, entertaining, and smart single woman. She works for at Lone Star Veterinary Clinic, as an office staff, and also as a volunteer at Second Chance Ranch Dog Rescue. On Feb 14th, Valentine's Day, or as Cassidy keeps reminding us, National Singles Awareness Day, she is called out in a rain storm on a rescue. This is her 1st night rescue alone and driving the rescue van. Her choice to go out in a rain storm on a rescue starts a bunch of events into motion that snowball quickly. It all starts with the dog rescue and the letter Z.

I was a bit sad that the mystery was not one that we could have solved, because you get some of the clues but not all. However, it was still enjoyable and not boring. It was a clean, cozy mystery, and this would appeal to those that desire a fun, lighthearted, cozy mystery with a bit of romance. The book was a little long, but I was hoping for more of the whodunit aspect when I started the book. However, if you want light and relaxing it was perfect for that and will leave you thoroughly happy with this mystery.

When you are looking for a light book, I would highly recommend this book. This was my first, but it won't be my last of the series. I look forward to backtracking and reading the first three and any future books in the series.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

[Michelle Kidwell · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Bark of Zorro
by Kathleen Y'Barbo
Pub Date 01 Apr 2023
Barbour Publishing, Barbour Fiction
Christian | Mystery & Thrillers



A copy of The Bark of Zorro was provided to me by Barbour Publishing, Barbour Fiction, and Netgalley for review:


In book 4 of the Gone to the Dogs series, unwind with your favorite pooch.
 
There are strange happenings in Brenham, Texas, as dogs start showing up at the Lone Star Veterinary Clinic with a Z spray painted on their bodies. Cops blame pranksters, while pet owners blame each other. Cassidy Carter uses her social media skills to catch the culprit, but Texas game warden Jason Cameron thinks online media attention is not necessary. It's bad enough that reality TV cameras follow him around.

After Cassidy's post goes viral, more dogs are painted and her new home is also marked with a big Z. How could her good intentions have backfired so badly?


The Bark of Zorro earns five stars from me!


Happy Reading!

[Connie Saunders · Rating 4 out of 5]

There's another mystery for the staff of the Lone Star Vet Clinic in Brenham, Texas and this may be the strangest one yet. Who is painting the letter Z on the dogs around Brenham and what is the reason? Cassidy Carter's work at the clinic and her passion for rescuing dogs prompt her to start her own investigation but she soon finds some opposition from a local game warden. Jason Cameron definitely has his own ideas about finding the answers and he doesn't give much credit to Cassidy's amateur sleuthing skills!

Dogs, romance, and intrigue make this a perfect choice for anyone wanting a fun and entertaining cozy mystery. The Bark of Zorro is a great addition to the Gone to the Dogs series and the good news is that there are more books ahead!

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review.

[Shelley Marushak Langelaar · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love the characters and as I have been reading the series I have been enjoying how they interact with each other and the strong circle of friendship that they are creating. The mystery part was a bit drawn out but the romance aspect kept me interested. This is a nice light read and helped me to de stress from the day.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the advanced copy. Opinions are my own.

[Shelley Marushak Langelaar · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love the characters and as I have been reading the series I have been enjoying how they interact with each other and the strong circle of friendship that they are creating. The mystery part was a bit drawn out but the romance aspect kept me interested. This is a nice light read and helped me to de stress from the day.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the advanced copy. Opinions are my own.

[Deb Raker · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have been enjoying this series. I love the small town feels and friendships. The main characters in this book were a little off putting for me. Cassidy was far too pushy and Jason wasn’t always as truthful as he should have been. The story line was fun and the outcome was a surprise. I’ll be looking for more books to come!

[Tanya · Rating 2 out of 5]

Dogs were the stars of this book

Thank you Goodreads giveaway for the free kindle copy of this book.

It was an okay story. I didn't care for the main character Jason. He got on my nerves. I just never really felt close with any of the characters. And there were a lot of names and characters and after a while I just kept reading, not really remembering who some of them were.

The mystery was kind of annoying too. Especially since the culprit was someone never mentioned. Oh well, the dogs were the stars of the book.

This book just wasn't my cup of tea. It happens.

[Rick Molitor · Rating 4 out of 5]

Cozy mystery

This was a good Cozy mystery about Cassidy who lives a normal life in Brenham, TX. While she is working as the business manager of a Veterinarian office and volunteering at a Pet rescue, she solves crimes. It is an enjoyable read.

[Mary · Rating 5 out of 5]

Entertaining read with lovable characters

[Laura (kroosreadsandreviews) · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was my favorite book out of the series so far. I found the other stories to be a little more far fetched and this one was in the realm of the possible. I particularly enjoyed the characters of the game Warden!

Thanks so much to netgalley and the publisher for the arc. The opinions are my own

[Stacey E. · Rating 3 out of 5]

Although I am enjoying this series, this was my least favorite book so far. I was just having a hard time getting through it. I am looking forward to finishing up this series with the last 2 books!

[Jeanie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this cozy mystery! It has delightful characters, two challenging mysteries, and is set in Brenham, Texas. This engaging group of pet lovers are involved with the Lone Star Veterinary Clinic and the Second Chance Dog Ranch. Each novel in this wonderful series focuses on a different person or couple with a mystery related to the clinic or dog rescue. I like the consistency of setting and characters in this series even as we get to know each person’s perspective and how they fit into the group. They are people of faith, yet they live it out without overwhelming the plot or preaching to the reader.

Cassidy is the office manager at Lone Star and volunteers with Second Chance. I really like her and am glad to get to know her better. On Valentine’s Day, she and the unattached ladies who work for the veterinary clinic watched the same movie at their respective homes and texted each other throughout. That night, in a downpour, Cassidy received a text for her first solo dog rescue.

The dog is in a place posted as no trespassing and she had to break a lock on the fence trapping him so she can get him out of the storm. She took the sweet, muddy pup home to bathe. Until his owner is found, she would call him Spot. She is startled to discover a letter Z painted on his side. Over the next few days, more incidents of painted pups come to light, most of which are or become associated with the clinic or rescue.

Soon after the rescue, Cassidy met Jason, a game warden and member of the state police. They hit it off within moments, and despite their differences, began to see each other. One of their challenges is that he does not want her to search for who is painting Zs on dogs. Also, a producer is filming Jason on and off his job for the reality show Texas Law: Real Life. They will continue to film him in his job only if Cassidy will agree to let them follow the two when on dates.

Cassidy put a deposit down on a loft that she is getting for an amazing deal and will rent-to-own until the sale closes. One of her friends is buying the storefront downstairs, also at a great price. At least until one of their suspects has a set of keys for the loft and the storefront that he claims he purchased.

I read many cozy mysteries, and having men and women of faith is an added attraction for me. The characters are genuine with the exception of a couple suspects. Jason was not one of my favorite people at first. To me, he was a little too overbearing and stern. He is, however, open and up front about his concerns. I appreciate that no humans or canines were killed in the making of this cozy, demonstrating that a murder doesn’t have to occur for a mystery to be interesting and intriguing. Sorting through suspects for the real whodunit was not easy, as there were several potential suspects. I was surprised at whodunit and why! The ending was overall very satisfying, and I highly recommend it to people who enjoy well-written Southern cozy mysteries with dogs, veterinary clinics, dog rescues, and gently-presented spiritual principles.

From a thankful heart: I received an ARC of this novel from the publisher through Celebrate Lit and NetGalley, and this is my honest review.