MURDER OF THE CAT'S MEOW is the 15th book in the Scumble River series, but it's the first I've read. Author Denise Swanson weaves in enough background that I was never lost as continuing characters, like Skye's former students Frannie and Justin, are re-introduced.

The murder set-up is pretty complex, and without giving too much away, most of Skye and Wally's time is spent eliminating suspects and following dead-ends. They kind of stumble on the real motive and the killer near the end.

Skye, Wally, and the other regulars are likeable, well-drawn people, and the other characters have quirky personalities but don't seem one-dimensional. MURDER OF THE CAT'S MEOW is an entertaining cozy mystery, light enough to sleep easy at night, and puzzling enough to keep you interested.

Book Summary