Step into the whimsical world of the Cats and Curios series, where two feline detectives, Rupert and Isabella, lead their human companion through the foggy streets of San Francisco to unravel mysteries steeped in historical intrigue. Penned by Rebecca M. Hale, this cozy mystery series blends quirky charm, clever cats, and a dash of Gold Rush-era secrets, offering readers a delightful escape into a world where paws and clues intertwine.
Unlike typical cozy mysteries, Cats and Curios stands out with its playful narrative and deep ties to San Francisco’s past. Whether you’re a cat lover or a history buff, this series promises a purr-fectly engaging read that’s as much about the journey as the destination.
How Cats and Curios Began
Rebecca M. Hale, a former patent attorney in the San Francisco Bay Area, launched the Cats and Curios series in 2008 with her debut novel, How to Wash a Cat. Inspired by her love for the city’s vibrant history and her own feline companions, Hale crafted a series that weaves together cozy mystery tropes with historical anecdotes. Taking time off from her legal career, she poured her passion for storytelling into creating a world where cats aren’t just sidekicks but key players in solving crimes.
Hale’s unique approach—blending San Francisco’s Gold Rush legacy with modern-day sleuthing—set the series apart. Her background in research lent authenticity to the historical elements, while her knack for humor brought Rupert and Isabella to life as unforgettable characters.
The Heart of Cats and Curios
The series kicks off with How to Wash a Cat (2008), where an unnamed accountant inherits her uncle Oscar’s antiques shop, the Green Vase, and stumbles into a mystery tied to his death and the Gold Rush era. Rupert and Isabella, her curious cats, guide her through a trail of deception. In Nine Lives Last Forever (2010), the trio chases mysterious frogs appearing in the shop and City Hall, following Oscar’s cryptic note to uncover hidden treasures.
How to Moon a Cat (2011) dives into San Francisco’s New Deal-era art, as the protagonist searches for her missing uncle amidst a murdered intern’s case. The series wraps up with How to Catch a Cat (2015), where a serial killer targeting City Hall interns prompts a hunt linked to the city’s sailing history. Each book balances lighthearted humor with intricate plots, using San Francisco’s landmarks and history as a vivid backdrop.
Themes of curiosity, loyalty, and discovery shine through, with Rupert and Isabella embodying feline intuition. Hale’s witty prose and knack for quirky characters—like the eccentric Monty Carmichael—create a cozy yet adventurous vibe. The series’ strength lies in its ability to make history feel alive, from Gold Rush relics to 18th-century voyages, all while keeping readers guessing.
Why Cats and Curios Resonates
Cats and Curios has carved a niche in the cozy mystery genre, earning praise for its fresh take and historical depth. Fans adore the series’ blend of feline antics and San Francisco lore, with reviews highlighting Rupert and Isabella as “brilliant tacticians” and the books as “quirky and delightful.” Its New York Times bestselling status reflects its appeal to readers seeking cozy mysteries with a twist.
The series’ lasting charm lies in its ability to transport readers to a San Francisco where every corner holds a secret. By celebrating the city’s past and the bond between humans and pets, Cats and Curios remains a beloved gem for those who crave a light, engaging read with a historical heart.
- Publication Years: 2008–2015
- Number of Books: 6
- Genre: Cozy Amateur Sleuth Mystery
- Setting: San Francisco, California
Grab How to Wash a Cat and dive into the Cats and Curios series’ charming world of feline sleuths and San Francisco secrets! Whether you’re chasing clues or cozying up with a good book, Rupert and Isabella are ready to lead the way.