Step into the sun-drenched, mystery-filled world of Dixie Hemingway, where a former policewoman turned pet-sitter solves crimes with a leash in one hand and a heart full of grit! The Dixie Hemingway series, crafted by Blaize Clement, blends cozy mystery vibes with the vibrant backdrop of Sarasota, Florida. Follow Dixie as she navigates quirky pet-sitting gigs, unravels chilling crimes, and heals from personal tragedy, all while forming unbreakable bonds with her furry clients.
This delightful series captures the charm of small-town life, the thrill of whodunits, and the warmth of human-animal connections. With its unique mix of humor, heart, and suspense, Dixie Hemingway invites readers to curl up with a good book and a purring companion.
How Dixie Hemingway Began
Blaize Clement, a Sarasota resident and lover of animals, birthed the Dixie Hemingway series in 2005 with Curiosity Killed the Cat Sitter. Inspired during a writing workshop, Clement imagined a man drowned in a cat’s water bowl—a quirky premise that sparked the series. Drawing from her own life as a therapist and animal enthusiast, she created Dixie, a resilient ex-deputy who finds solace in pet-sitting after losing her husband and daughter. After Blaize’s passing in 2011, her son John Clement continued the series, preserving its heart and humor.
The Heart of Dixie Hemingway
The series kicks off with Curiosity Killed the Cat Sitter, where Dixie stumbles upon a corpse in a cat’s water bowl, launching her into a web of secrets. In Duplicity Dogged the Dachshund, she uncovers a murder tied to a client’s dog, blending pet antics with danger. The Cat Sitter’s Cradle sees Dixie protecting a homeless girl and her newborn while solving a millionaire’s murder. The Cat Sitter and the Canary, penned by John, pits Dixie against a murder plot targeting her, with a feisty Lhasa Apso as her sidekick.
Set on Siesta Key, the series paints Sarasota as a lush, quirky paradise where canals and beaches frame gripping mysteries. Themes of resilience, compassion, and the healing power of pets shine through Dixie’s journey. The stories balance cozy charm with gritty thrills, offering humor via pet antics and suspense through clever twists. Fans adore Dixie’s flawed yet fierce personality, making each book a fast, engaging read.
Why Dixie Hemingway Resonates
The Dixie Hemingway series has carved a niche in the cozy mystery genre, captivating animal lovers and mystery buffs alike. Its blend of pet-centered humor and hard-hitting crime appeals to readers seeking both comfort and excitement. John Clement’s continuation has kept Dixie’s spirit alive, earning praise for honoring his mother’s vision. The series’ focus on human-animal bonds resonates deeply, reminding us of the unconditional love pets offer.
With a loyal fanbase and critical acclaim, Dixie Hemingway stands as a testament to Blaize’s storytelling prowess and John’s dedication. It’s a hidden gem for those craving mysteries with heart and a tropical twist.
- First Book Published: 2005 (Curiosity Killed the Cat Sitter)
- Total Books: 11
- Authors: Blaize Clement (Books 1–7), John Clement (Books 8–11)
- Setting: Siesta Key, Sarasota, Florida
Grab Curiosity Killed the Cat Sitter and dive into Dixie Hemingway’s sun-soaked, suspenseful world! Whether you’re a mystery fan or a pet lover, Dixie’s adventures promise a purr-fectly thrilling ride.