A Summertime Murder (The Isle of Wight Killings #5), by Mary Grand

Publication March 9, 2026

Susan lives in a lovely setting where everything appears serene and calm on the surface. Only, it isn't. There are lots of twists and turns and I lost track of how many times I changed my mind about who was the most likely culprit. The prologue sets the mood as we're briefly in a killer's mind, leaving us uneasy as we wait to find out the details. As such, the fact life goes on as usual for awhile, dog walks and ocean swims included, prepares us but not for how many seem to have had a reason for wanting the victim dead. It reminds us that a killer can walk amongst us anytime, their life rarely allowing a glimpse into whatever drove them to kill. 

We meet Susan early on (this was my first read of the series) and while tired of the overbearing heat of a seemingly never ending heat wave, she's going about her life. We even get to meet not just her friends but the eventual victim, a local vet whose clinic was just broken into. There are quite a few characters, too, so it took me a bit to sort them all out, occasionally getting confused about who was with who or married to who or whose dog was which. I did quickly suss out that Susan seems involved in a slowly budding romance with Robert, a retired cop, but he was in France with his daughter for much of the book, There always seemed to something hovering just beneath the surface, albeit you're not sure what it is about. Everyone seemed to have secrets. Heck, even Susan seems to have a secret of sorts that involves Steve, her ex-husband who shows up in town expecting to stay at her place briefly....for work, of course. 

Bottom line, lots of secrets on the Isle of Wright. Who'd have wanted to kill the local vet and why? He was a keeper of secrets, too, of course, from the past and present. Let's say his wife didn't seem enthused about his news of a big break. But, more than enough said. Once you sort out the characters, which may be more the fact this was my first read of the series than not, it's an intriguing mystery with a growing sense of unease always just below the surface. Lots of twists and turns and, as noted, misdirection that have you pointing to one suspect after another as whodunit, some more than once. Thanks #BoldwoodBooks for introducing me to this intriguing book and author. While it was maybe a bit out of my usual cozy mystery niche, I found it an interesting read and will definitely be back. It was a plus to me that the story was centered around a small town vet practice, too, animal person that I am. Loved the teaser at the end regarding Susan's future. 

Where the Bodies Are Berried, by Peg Cochran

 

Publication November 11, 2025

Love the Christmas-y cover. It's Christmas at Sassamanash Farms and Monica is busy hosting the local animal shelter's fund raiser. Since having one's picture taken with your pet and Santa is a staple around here, I was surprised to discover it apparently isn't that widely used. There are even some live reindeer on hand. Yep, things are beginning to look a lot like Christmas....wait, I've heard that line somewhere. Grin. In any case, all is going well until, in an effort to recapture a piece of money blowing away in the wind, Monica almost stumbles over a dead body in a snow drift. Uh, oh, he's one of the shelter's biggest donors. Is there a connection?

I won't detail the plot, but will say that as mother to a month old, Teddy, Monica already has her hands full. That doesn't stop her from sleuthing, of course.  There were quite a few characters coming and going, some quirky and memorable, others seemingly just passing through. I put it on myself that I had a tough time sorting them out and, as a result, found the plot rather slow. Monica also isn't the best at seeking information via otherwise informal conversations, either, even managing to further distress the victim's wife early on. In front of friends, no less. I liked her relationship with husband and shop owner Greg but found myself not really caring what happened to her despite curiosity over the usual whodunit. The side stories were intriguing and did add to the story, some of those characters showing promise for future installments. 

So, bottom line, while I wasn't loving it, I wasn't pulled into the story, either. As noted, I'll lay some of that blame on myself and feel many will fully enjoy this one. You will learn a bit about cranberry salsa, btw, and farm life on a cranberry farm in general. Toss in little touches like needing to set up the monitor in baby Teddy's room while speaking to visitors and there is a homey feeling to the story. As for whodunit, I didn't really know until the end, so figuring that out was fun, even if the logic behind it was rather saddening. Past events do have a way of haunting our lives today. Thanks #BeyondThePage for the early visit to Cranberry Cove. Despite not quite being lured in fully this go-round, it's a place I'll happily revisit. 

For Duck's Sake, by Donna Andrews

 

Publication August 5, 2025

First, an admission. This is one of those books I'll grab to read based entirely on the author's name. Well, that and the always cute covers. I don't read the blurb. Don't check the number of pages. Don't even check publication date, all things that can bite any reviewer. So far, however, Donna Andrews hasn't disappointed me. Mystery, mayhem, fun and quirky characters, lots of animals, frequently running amuck, and a well written, humorous read. This one was unique from most in that the murder main character Meg winds up focused on didn't just happen. In fact, it's decades old. As usual, Meg manages to stay cool and calm, even when she tumbles into danger. 

Long time readers will enjoy catching up with the family and pets, especially the evil one, Spike, who manages to get into all sorts of mischief despite efforts to keep him away from the flurry of activity on the home front. Seems a couple hundred homeless dogs and assorted other critters are being groomed and sheltered at Meg's in preparation of a Mutt March meant to find them homes. The organization behind the effort will blow your mind and, no, Meg's good, but she's not in charge. Did I mention rumors of dog nappers by dog fighting rings? In any cace, ducks are involved, too, as you've probably deduced from the title, but you'll find yourself more of a duck expert after reading this than you might imagine. You'll even learn a bit about not just scanner chips and DNA and its uses in identifying bodies, even skeletons, but the general procedures and care taken by archaeologists investigating a bone find where poor Rob and Delaney wanted their duck pond to be located. You'll also know more about the Tasseled Wobbegong than you ever imagined you'd want to know or, if you're like me, you'd never heard of before. Oh, and the bomb shelters that were erected largely in the 60s. What is Vern's secret? And, oh, yes, where did Iris disappear to and why? 

Of course, there's more, much more, but you can rest assured it'll be a fun, entertaining visit. You'd think cousin Kevin would run out of surveillance cameras. He's sure a busy young man. In any case, seriously, if you're in the need of a fun, feel good read that will have you chuckling most of the time, give this one a read. This series is a DO NOT MISS on my list. Thanks #StMartinsPress - #Minotaur for providing me this early look and lots of chuckles. I'm already looking forward to my next visit with Meg, Michael, Chief Burke, and the rest, ducks, llamas, and who knows what else.

Doggone Bones: A Sarah Booth Delaney Mystery, by Carolyn Haines

 

Publication May 27, 2025

Animal loving readers will quickly grasp why I suddenly felt the need to keep my eye on my dog outside no matter what. This series, as thoroughly entertaining and well-written as it is, touches on animal abuse this go-round. Not just animal abuse but the theft of dogs for dog fighting, and that's only the tip of the iceberg. It left me entertained, angry, frustrated, hopeful, and feeling helpless at various times as I read, sometimes an odd mix of these. In other words, not the light read one might anticipate but one well worth your time.

I actually came to this series late in the game but was immediately hooked. The characters of Sarah Booth Delaney and her partner in the investigation practice, Tinkie Bellcase Richmond are both intriguing characters, even if I continually marvel and wonder what hidden skill Tinkie may showcase next. Like Sarah Booth, she's a dog/animal lover and harks back to a previous book when she wishes she could feel abusers to a shark. Dogs are obviously the focus here but I'll note that the book "Black Beauty" even gets some space courtesy of Jitty the, shall we say, "identify shifting" ghost. Lots of twists and turns centering about not only the current issue, dog theft, dog fighting, danger, and greed, but we're reminded of a Sarah Booth's past as the book progresses. While the book stands alone, I sort of wished I'd managed to read more of the early books -- I'm working on it -- so I'd have a better handle on the background that lead up to the supposedly accidental death. The villain is definitely someone you'll love to hate for many reasons, that's for sure. 

While I'm doing my best not to reveal more of the plot, I will say that as much as I felt the need to cling to my own fur girl as I read, this was an entertaining, albeit troublesome read. The author, I understand, is a long time advocate against animal abuse, so kudos to her for putting the practice of dog fighting and all it entails, which you'll have a better grasp of after reading, squarely in the spotlight. Thanks #StMartin'sPress - #Minotaur for this early peek into the frequently complicated world of Sarah Booth and Tinkie, this one focusing on an issue more need to be aware of while leading us on a merry chase of whodunit. And, oh, wow, what a cliff hanger of an ending!

 

Trouble Dog: From Shelter Dog to Conservation Hero, by Carol A. Foote, Larry Day (illustrator)

 

Publication Feb. 26, 2925

While I knew what a scent dog was, I wasn't familiar with the term conservation dog. Not to mention the countless miles they may travel to do their job. Pretty amazing to think a shelter dog, one returned for being destructive and just too much to handle, could thrive in such a position. Tucker, the star of this story, is actually based on two real dogs, so be sure to read the after matter that discusses conservation dogs in greater detail. There are even real photos there. 

Given a second-chance by Laura, who not only has a goal but seemingly the patience of a saint, Tucker takes to the training and is pictured on several trial runs during training as well on real missions. His energy (not to mention the destruction he left in his wake early on) is nicely portrayed in the colorful illustrations. Kudos the Larry Day, the illustrator. I liked that Tucker was shown working in various sites in different ways. This helps illustrate the diverse set of skills such a dog must learn as well as the diverse cast of humans around the world they may work with. Tucker definitely proved his skill more than once. 

There's much to take away from this book aside from learning something about conservation dogs. Maybe most importantly it shows us not to cast a dog aside because it isn't the right fit for a situation, whether that be simply as a loving pet or a working dog who travels the world. Let's face it, some dogs have way more energy than others, hence usually subtle hints to potential adopters to consider their situation before adopting a dog simply because it's cute or reminds you of another pet or whatever. We can all learn a great deal from how Laura handles a difficult but lovable dog. 

The book is well written and flows nicely, with the illustrations adding greatly to our understanding. The addition of the true stories of the dogs Tucker is based on at the end with ample info on not just conservation dogs but how smell is used and what might make a dog a good fit for the position was a bonus. Thanks #WmBEardmansPublishingCompany for allowing me this sneak peek at how some dogs' natural abilities are being used for the good of all. I loved the illustration used at the top of the selected reading suggestions, too, of Laura curled up with a book with Tucker sprawled on her lap. My rescue corgi mix gives this one four paws up and many tail wags. 

A Stray Dog for Christmas: How Suzy Was Adopted, by Jack Jokinen, Wendy Tan (illustrator)

 Publication Sept. 3, 2024

I realized at one point as I read that I was automatically reaching out toward my own rescue, Daisy, the namesake for my review blog. I wanted to feel the connect with her that this book made me feel for Suzy. Like the Suzy of this book, Daisy, too, was once an unwanted stray. Knowing the joy Daisy has brought into my home, it was a given that I was going to love this book. It was made even better when I realized that the author was able to use Suzy's story to help rescue other homeless dogs. In other words, a winner of a story with a wonderful impact.

I won't share the story, the blurb tells you all you need to know, but will say that it is heartwarming. It's an easy read with lots of repeated phrases, largely seen through Suzy's eyes. It was a sheer luck that not only was the author's door ajar that cold winter's night but that Suzy found her way to them. You'll smile when you see how she makes friends with George, the then current solo dog. Dogs tend to operate by instinct and Suzy's were right on. The illustrations were well done, neither too sappy nor too simple. Suzy's expressions alone show how she was able to melt hearts and win over not just George but his human family. The real life photos at the end are a fun plus.

I liked that while the author didn't elaborate what medical needs Suzy had other than malnutrition, he did emphasize the importance of her having a vet checkup as soon as possible. In other words, they mirror good pet ownership and responsibility. When you take a stray or rescue into your home, that's important as, in a way, good health helps ensure a good relationship between humans and pet. Bottom line, a great dog story that doubles as a meaningful Christmas story. A double win. Thanks #NetGalley and #SourcebooksKids for sharing this story with me. It made me feel happy, especially as I snuggled with my own one-time rescue, now queen of the house, Daisy.

Furballs and Fatalities: A Talking Dog Cozy Mystery, by Carly Winter

 

Publication Feb. 8, 2024

Like dogs? You're going to love Daisy, the talking dog. Her sheer joy is adorable, as are her childlike pouts. Gina struggles to keep her ability to talk with her dog a secret but it's becoming increasingly difficult. Maybe more so since she's spending so much time hanging out with Deputy Trevor Hutchinson. Daisy's sense of humor seems to mean she likes to trick Gina into responding to her when he's around. There also seems to be a romance bubbling just under the surface, so I'm looking forward to the next installment. One thing I particularly like, of course, is Gina's focus on rescue. Unfortunately, Daisy doesn't always get along with the temporary guests in her house, frequently giving Gina a major guilt trip. The good news is, a happy solution is always found by book's end. 

In any case, on to the mystery/murder investigation. Who killed Molly, wife of the local hardware store owner? Gina is astonished to learn that Erika, the initial suspect because she was recently fired by Molly, won't talk to anyone at the police station but her. Why? Maybe equally concerning, why is Erika involved with such a control freak boyfriend? Could he have killed Molly to protect Erika? How will Trevor and Gina sort out the romantic entanglements? Was the husband simply clearing the way to marrying the new girlfriend by killing off his wife? Will Gina find herself in danger? Oh, bet you can guess the answer to that one. And, what does Trevor know about Gina's mother that she refuses to let him share with her? 

Okay, enough teasers? You'll like the quirky characters and humor of the story, much of it provided by Daisy. Annabelle can always be depended on, too, for a wild scheme to catch a killer or, for that matter, simply get revenge. She's a fun carry-over from the previous series this one is based on. The story is fast paced, with ample twists and red herrings, not to mention viable suspects. Give it a read. It's a quick, easy read that, quite frankly, I found hard to put down once I started reading.Thanks #BookSirens and author #CarlyWinter for allowing me this early peek at what's going on with Gina, Daisy, and Trevor. Looking forward to my next visit.

Paw Prints and Problems, by Carly Winter

Tact is not Gina's strong point. Nor is patience, well, unless it applies to a dog and an abandoned Golden Retriever has even about worn through her canine patience supply. Then there is that murder to solve. Sally's chef is murdered and she's asked Gina to help prove her innocence. How can Gina refuse a friend? 

Next thing we know, we're up to our reading eyeballs with surly bikers and drug lords, a father's confession, and .. .well, it's complicated. What really happened to Gina's mother? Why did she disappear? Who killed the chef and what's his name anyway? Will Zeus drive dog Gina's dog Daisy to distraction? Why is Trevor so free with information? Why is Gina hiding under a table? Who...oh, enough. So many questions.

I like Gina but, quite frankly, she does need to work on her approach to questioning. Gina has all the good intentions in the world but is given to being impulsive and not thinking through things before approaching people she genuinely suspects of being killers. True, she has her trusty talking dog Daisy at her side but Daisy isn't likely to scare off anyone. Daisy is smart and has a great nose for scents but, well, she also seems to operate like a toddler or, let's face it, in love with life dog. Daisy's canine chats with the abandoned, hyper, ill-behaved Zeus are a hoot. Finding out that there seems to be a scientific basis for his behavior and how it could be focused was definitely interesting. That sort of info is a plus for this book.

Bottom line, this was a fun, relatively quick read that I enjoyed. My own dog's name is Daisy, too, so another plus though I'm pretty sure I'd just as rather not know what she might really say to me at any given time. It was a plus in my mind that Gina made a point of going out of her way to both help and apologize to those she falsely accused.I did sorta have an inkling of who was guilty but it was so much fun to see Gina going off in one direction or the other with her suspicions, only to swerve into another lane dealing with wild-child, er, dog Zeus and finding him a forever home that it was never quite my focus. Yeah, I'd make a rotten detective. Grin.

Thanks #BookSirens and #WestwoodPublishing for giving me the chance to get to know Gina and, of course, Daisy the talking dog better. I'm looking forward to their next adventure, not to mention what is going on with Trevor.

Dog Treats and Death: A Talking Dog Cozy Mystery, by Carly Winter

 Available August 23, 2023

Although I haven't read anything by Carly Winter before, I quickly felt at home in Gina's world. The set up was nicely done early on, including the advent of Gina being able to talk with her dog, Daisy. We also learn of her childhood, which includes Gina and brother Vic being abandoned with their father when their mother simply left. As such, even while recognizing Vic's tendency to be a "bad boy" and his troubles in the past with the law, she cares about him and wants to help prove his innocence. Seems he's one of the last ones seen with Phoebe, a murder victim, and is Sheriff Mallory's prime suspect. 

Gina is a fun character, one who not only loves dogs but is involved in dog rescue, making me like her immediately. Vic is working on a horse ranch, too, one that has a focus on Arabians and Quarter Horses, so he had that going for him, not to mention one of Gina's rescue dogs immediately takes to him. The other human character that grabbed my attention was feisty Annabelle with her talent for pranks. She seems to be one of the other carry-overs from the Heywood Herbalist series. Gina's dog, Daisy, who has a great sense of smell, was a bit of a hoot. While incredibly brave and helpful at times, Daisy is also pure dog, one that manages to annoy a goat with the expected results. Dog annoys goat. Goat chases dog.  

So, who killed Phoebe? Why was she in the horse arena anyway? Should Gina believe the gossip she's hearing about the ranch owner? What advice does Annabelle give Gina? Why is the Sheriff so quick to assume Vic did it? Why doesn't Gina turn over the evidence she finds? How is Vic able to avoid arrest? Why is Gina suddenly thinking, basically, that she's lost her mind? Does Trevor, the deputy, believe Gina? Is there a potential romance budding? Why is Gina feeling so alone? Who...oh, enough teasers. This was a fun, easy read, so give it a read. My thanks to the author and #BookSirens for introducing me to a new series that I'm definitely looking forward to following. That epilogue already has me primed. 

Every Dog Has His Day (Gone to the Dogs #5), by Janice Thompson

 

Publication July 1, 2023

This book makes you believe in "happily ever after".

A sweet, easy read from Barbour books, the focus is on dog rescue with a healthy dose of Christian living. The latter is subtle, however, and simply a part of the characters' daily life with the mystery and, of course, dogs, being the focus. A lost dog is found in an upscale neighborhood and fostered by one of those who cared for her after rescue. 

That's when things get complicated as it suddenly appears a large reward has been offered for the dog. Suddenly, people are coming out of the woodwork to try to claim the adorable, fiesty mini-dachshund temporarily dubbed Sasha. Then Sasha goes missing. Again. Turns out her owner is the high profile quarterback for the local professional football team and, well, not only single, but sweet and handsome. Can romance be far behind? But, first, who stole Sasha, er, Ginger? Surely it wasn't some cheap, cruel publicity stunt? Having the media tailing them is a nuisance, that's for sure.

I've thoroughly enjoyed this series but for some reason had trouble sorting out who was who this go-round. Possibly on me as I think I missed a book and it's therefore been awhile. Cozy mystery buff or not, I liked that there is no bloodshed and, oh, my, what a sweet moment at the end. I hesitate to say more and ruin the fun for readers. Football fan or not, you're sure to enjoy the easy friendships between the characters and, of course, that adorable mini-dachshund. 

Thanks #NetGalley and #BarbourPublishing - #BarbourFiction for letting me drop in on a remarkable team of dog rescuers. My own Daisy dog is a rescue, so that's a topic that's near and dear to me.

Barking up the Wrong Tree, Gone to the Dogs #3, by Janice Thompson

 

Publication Jan. 1, 2023               

A missing pet, every pet owner's worst nightmare. Even worse, this one doesn't seem to have wandered off on his own. Remington is a champion agility dog and had just won a trip to nationals when something strange happens. Oh, the family still has a dog, a Sheltie who looks like Remi, but is of an entirely different disposition and health status. A blood test reveals the truth. The dog the family has been so worried about isn't Remington.

I found this an intriguing read for several reasons. First, well, I'm a sucker for anything dog and the cover photo immediately reeled me in. I once owned a Sheltie mix, so was automatically drawn to the story. I have friends who do rescue (my own dog is a rescue) and friends who work at a vet clinic. It was interesting to follow the routine of this fictional clinic, knowing how close to reality it was. It was also nice, quite frankly, to read a mystery that didn't involve a murder. Yes, all mysteries don't require a dead body and this one is proof. 

Aside from the mystery of Remington's well-being and focus on dog rescue, there was ample time for the character stories to be developed, too. Kristin Keller's family was open and loving and, oh, so very Southern in speech and manner. They immediately took to Tyler, too, Kristin's co-worker and romantic interest. Although we never actually meet his family, we learn a great deal about them (and Tyler) through his memories as he shares with Kristin. God also plays a major, visible role in the story but without beating you over the head. Scriptures used are from the New Life Version Bible, I might note, but most used relate to the animal/human bond and simply caring for all.  All God's creatures are important and deserve love, in other words.

Bottom line, if you want to read a sweet, easy-to-read mystery that doesn't involve bloodshed but has its tense moments nevertheless, give this one a read. There are, of course, lots of dogs, even a sad, abandoned corgi, but also romance, food, oh, my, the food, a delicious sounding recipe, and, hey, a country music star. And, of course, if you are a dog lover, so much the better. Thanks #NetGalley and #BarbourPublishing - #BarbourFiction for introducing me to this book. I'll definitely be on the lookout for previous books as well as anything else by the author.

Prancer the Demon Chihuahua: Fashionista, Icon, and Heckin’ Good Boofer, by Pam Pho (author) , Cloris Chou (Illustrations)

 

Publication Jan. 17, 2023

I'm not so sure I'd call Prancer a demon but, well, then again, those aren't my shoes regularly being watered by Prancer. This is a cute one, aimed at children, and though it's subtle, shows the growing relationship between Prancer, the rescue Chihuahua, and his human. I mean, pay attention to how Prancer, the supposed author, refers to her human throughout. 

Adopted from Last Chance Rescue, Prancer seems to have become famous online, not to mention in drive-thru lines. The book part details Prancer's growing attachment to his human, Prancer's likes and dislikes as well as favorite activities, not to mention offers up cute little games and jokes throughout. My favorite joke, btw, is one my short legged corgi mix would agree with. "What do you call a Chihuahua in the rain? Mad." 

Chihuahua lovers are sure to find something familiar and to chuckle over as they read. I rated it a 3.5 for me, rounded to a 4, which is more likely to be an accurate rating for children. Thanks #NetGalley and #AndrewsMcMeelPublishing for introducing me to Prancer and giving me a few chuckles.

Furbidden Fatality (A Catskills Pet Rescue Mystery #1,) by Deborah Blake

 

Published Feb. 23, 2021 by Berkley Books

Winning the lottery can change your life. Just ask Kari Stuart, who won $5M when she stopped at a convenience store to buy cat litter. That purchase alone is a hint. Kari is an animal person. Although she has steadfastly not allowed her sudden, unexpected wealth to go to her head. she impulsively buys a run down animal sanctuary after discovering there is simply no more room in the local animal shelter for even one adorable, stray kitten. Dubbed Queenie, aka Queen Nefertiti, the kitten definitely has a charm and way about her. She even seems to sense trouble even before Kari discovers the dead body outside the fence to her kennel area. And, uh, oh, it's the rude, hateful dog warden she had a loud, public disagreement with only a few days before. Kari and her new friends from the sanctuary, not to mention a charming vet she takes the kitten to for a checkup, quickly bond and before you can say "meow", they are in the thick of investigating. Seems the late dog warden wasn't well liked and several had a reason to want him dead.

I won't detail the plot as this one was released some time ago but will say that there is a great deal to like about this book. Kari is instantly likable. She's smart, hard working, feisty, and tends to think and plan ahead. Well, aside from her impulsive purchase of the animal sanctuary. You'll also find lots of good info on pet care, ranging from things like needing to wear tough gloves to handle agitated dogs to the need for extra strong fencing to confine some larger, stronger breeds and the importance of regular vet checkups and vaccinations among other points.

So, why was the dead man digging under her fence? Why did he want to buy the property that he probably thought Kari snatched out from under him given the former owners troubles with not just him but finances and overcrowding? Will that initial trip to the vet with Queenie change Kari's life? How about other single guys? How will she determine whether it's her or her money people are most interested in? Why is the one policeman in particular, so quick to seem to accuse Kari of murder? Will Kari's brother be a help or hindrance? What magic does Queenie seem to weave into Kari's life?

Bottom line, author Deborah Blake has a winner in this series. I will definitely be following this series. It's well written, flows nicely, and all the characters, well, aside from the dead guy that so many seem to be happy is dead, are likable and seem genuine. And, oh, yes, lots of adorable animals, with tiny Queenie leading the pack. Makes me extra proud to say my own corgi mix is a rescue as the need for more facilities and financing definitely has a role in this particular book.