Sleight of Paw

September 1, 2011

Minnesota librarian Kathleen returns in this second entry (Curiosity Thrilled the Cat) featuring the detecting ability of her uniquely gifted feline companions, Owen and Hercules. A young and talented professional, she's also, she realizes, a crazy cat lady. Nonetheless, when retired school principal Agatha, known for her ability to turn young people's lives around, is found murdered in a downtown alley, Kathleen knows the cats will help her figure it out. She's especially concerned because her friend Ruby has been arrested. Believing Ruby innocent, Kathleen and the cats puzzle through the clues in true Agatha Christie style. VERDICT It's good to have a touch of magic up your sleeve, and Kelly makes it work. If peanut butter-loving felines can liven up a mystery, then I say, bring it on. Obvious tie-ins would be Miranda James's and Rebecca M. Hale's cat mysteries. You might also try Jess Lourey for spunkiness and locale.

Copyright 2011 Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.