Step into the cozy, cat-filled world of the Cat Lady Mystery series, where small-town charm meets clever sleuthing in Whisker Jog, New Hampshire! Written by Linda Reilly, this delightful cozy mystery series follows Lara Caphart, a watercolor artist with a knack for solving murders and a heart for feline friends. With lovable cats, a ghostly Ragdoll named Blue, and a tight-knit community, these books are a purr-fect escape for mystery lovers.
From holiday cookie contests gone wrong to Hollywood stars tangled in scandal, the Cat Lady Mystery series blends suspense, humor, and heartwarming moments. Whether you’re a cat enthusiast or just love a good whodunit, Lara’s adventures will keep you guessing—and cuddling up with a good book.
How Cat Lady Mystery Began
Linda Reilly, a New Hampshire resident and lifelong mystery fan, launched the Cat Lady Mystery series in 2017 with Escape Claws. Inspired by her love for cats and classic cozy mysteries like Agatha Christie’s, Reilly crafted a series that celebrates feline charm and small-town life. Her background in real estate and criminal justice added a sharp eye for detail, making her mysteries both engaging and authentic. Whisker Jog, a fictional New England town, became the ideal backdrop for Lara’s sleuthing, reflecting Reilly’s deep roots in the region.
The Heart of Cat Lady Mystery
The series kicks off with Escape Claws (2017), where Lara returns to Whisker Jog to help her Aunt Fran, who’s struggling to care for herself and her eleven cats. When a local bully is found dead, Lara teams up with Blue, a spectral Ragdoll only she can see, to crack the case. In Claws of Death (2018), a retired actress adopts cats from Lara’s High Cliff Shelter for Cats, only to become a murder suspect when a teacher’s body is found on her property. Claws for Celebration (2018) brings holiday cheer—and chaos—when a judge dies during Whisker Jog’s cookie competition. Claws of Action (2019) sees Lara and Fran fighting to save their shelter from a health inspector’s shutdown, only to stumble into another murder mystery.
At its core, the series weaves themes of animal welfare, community spirit, and resilience. Lara and Fran’s High Cliff Shelter for Cats highlights the joy of pet adoption and the healing power of animals, while Whisker Jog’s quirky residents foster a sense of belonging. Reilly’s mysteries are fast-paced, with clever clues, red herrings, and a touch of the paranormal via Blue, making each book a page-turner. The vivid New England setting, from autumn leaves to snowy winters, adds cozy charm to every tale.
Why Cat Lady Mystery Resonates
The Cat Lady Mystery series has carved a niche in the cozy mystery genre, delighting fans with its feline focus and heartfelt storytelling. Readers praise Reilly’s ability to craft likable characters, both human and feline, and engaging plots that keep them guessing. The series’ emphasis on animal welfare has struck a chord, inspiring readers to support local shelters. Its small-town vibe and themes of loyalty and friendship make it a comforting yet thrilling read, perfect for curling up with a cup of tea.
Awards like the Cat Writers’ Association Certificate of Excellence for Claws of Action and a nod from Modern Cat Magazine for Escape Claws highlight the series’ growing impact. Fans on Goodreads and Amazon rave about its “pawsome” blend of cats and mystery, cementing its status as a beloved gem in the cozy mystery world.
- First book published: 2017
- Number of books: 5
- Awards: Certificate of Excellence, Cat Writers’ Association (2019)
- Setting: Whisker Jog, New Hampshire
Grab Escape Claws and dive into the Cat Lady Mystery series’ cozy, cat-tastic world! Whether you’re sleuthing with Lara or swooning over Blue, Whisker Jog is waiting to whisk you away.