Step into the cozy, cat-filled world of the Cat Groomer Mystery series, where a sharp-witted groomer and her feline friends unravel mysteries in a charming small town! Written by Eileen E.F. Watkins, this delightful cozy mystery series follows Cassie McGlone, a cat groomer with a knack for solving crimes in Chadwick, New Jersey. Perfect for cat lovers and mystery buffs, it blends suspense, humor, and heartwarming moments with a dash of feline flair.
With each book, readers are whisked into Cassie’s world, where her grooming salon, Cassie’s Comfy Cats, becomes the unexpected hub for solving murders. The series’ light tone, engaging plots, and cat-centric charm make it a purr-fect escape for anyone craving a cozy read.
How Cat Groomer Mystery Began
Eileen E.F. Watkins, a New Jersey native and lifelong cat lover, launched the Cat Groomer Mystery series in 2017 with Kensington Publishing. Inspired by her own pets and a friend’s struggles with a condo community over feral cats, Watkins crafted a series that celebrates feline companionship while weaving intricate mysteries. Her background in journalism and paranormal suspense added depth to the cozy genre, creating a unique blend of realism and whimsy. The first book, The Persian Always Meows Twice, won the David G. Sasher Award for Best Mystery of 2017, setting the stage for a beloved series.
The Heart of Cat Groomer Mystery
The series kicks off with The Persian Always Meows Twice (2017), where Cassie stumbles upon her wealthy client’s murder during a house call, launching her amateur sleuthing career. In The Bengal Identity (2018), a mysterious customer leaves a dyed cat at Cassie’s salon, revealing a stolen Bengal and a deadly conspiracy. Feral Attraction (2018) sees Cassie and her friend Dawn investigating a suspicious death tied to a feral cat colony, while Night of the Were-Cat (2022), the sixth and final book, tackles drug theft and a Halloween-themed werewolf contest.
Set in the picturesque yet quirky Chadwick, New Jersey, the series explores themes of new beginnings, community bonds, and the healing power of animals. Cassie, fresh from a toxic relationship, rebuilds her life through her business and friendships, often finding clues in the cats she grooms. Watkins weaves in cat care tips and social issues, like feral cat management and hoarding, making the stories both educational and entertaining. The cozy style, with its focus on character-driven plots and red herrings, keeps readers guessing until the final page.
Why Cat Groomer Mystery Resonates
The Cat Groomer Mystery series has carved a niche in the cozy mystery genre by blending feline charm with compelling whodunits. Fans praise its relatable characters, especially Cassie’s spunk and loyalty, and the vivid Chadwick setting that feels like home. The series’ awards, including multiple Cat Writers’ Association Certificates of Excellence, highlight its appeal to animal lovers and mystery enthusiasts alike. Its focus on cat breeds and care adds an educational layer, making it a standout for pet owners.
Though the series concluded with its sixth book, its legacy endures through its heartwarming exploration of human-animal bonds and the thrill of small-town sleuthing. For readers seeking a cozy escape, Cassie’s adventures offer a timeless blend of mystery and purr-sonal connection.
- First Book Published: 2017 (The Persian Always Meows Twice)
- Total Books: 6
- Awards: David G. Sasher Award (2017), Cat Writers’ Association MUSE Medallion (2022, 2023)
- Setting: Chadwick, New Jersey
Grab The Persian Always Meows Twice and dive into the Cat Groomer Mystery series’ cozy, cat-tastic world! Whether you’re a mystery lover or a feline fanatic, Cassie’s adventures will keep you hooked.