Step into the pet-friendly paradise of Wagtail, Virginia, where the Paws and Claws Mystery series by Krista Davis serves up cozy mysteries with a side of furry charm! This delightful series follows Holly Miller, her Jack Russell Terrier Trixie, and calico kitten Twinkletoes as they solve murders at the Sugar Maple Inn, a haven for pet lovers. With its blend of small-town warmth, clever whodunits, and adorable animal sleuths, Paws and Claws has captured the hearts of cozy mystery fans worldwide.
Since its debut in 2013, this New York Times bestselling series has grown to include ten books, each brimming with humor, suspense, and pet-centric adventures. Whether you’re a dog lover, a cat enthusiast, or just craving a lighthearted escape, Paws and Claws invites you to curl up with a good mystery and a furry friend.
How Paws and Claws Began
Krista Davis, a Virginia native with a knack for crafting engaging mysteries, drew inspiration for Paws and Claws from her love of animals and cozy settings. Having lived in Northern Virginia and Old Town Alexandria, she imagined Wagtail as a fictional pet-friendly resort town where dogs and cats are as welcome as their owners. Her own pets inspired the series’ animal characters, and her passion for cooking led to the inclusion of pet and human recipes in each book. Launched with Murder, She Barked in 2013, the series quickly won fans with its unique premise and Davis’s knack for vivid storytelling.
The Heart of Paws and Claws
The series kicks off with Murder, She Barked, where Holly Miller returns to Wagtail to help her grandmother, Oma, run the Sugar Maple Inn after a troubling call. A hit-and-run death and a string of crimes pull Holly, Trixie, and Twinkletoes into a thrilling investigation. In The Ghost and Mrs. Mewer, a Halloween ghost-hunting event turns deadly when a woman is found drowned, prompting Holly to unravel a spooky mystery. Murder Most Howl brings a winter murder mystery weekend that becomes all too real, while The Dog Across the Lake, the ninth book, introduces a mysterious dog leading Holly to a hidden body.
Paws and Claws shines through its themes of community, loyalty, and the unbreakable bond between pets and their owners. Wagtail’s pet-centric culture—think dog bakeries and cat cafes—creates a whimsical backdrop for suspenseful plots. Davis’s light, humorous style keeps the mysteries engaging without being heavy, and the animals’ knack for sniffing out clues adds a playful twist. The series also weaves in seasonal events like Christmas markets and gingerbread house contests, making each book a cozy, festive escape.
Why Paws and Claws Resonates
Paws and Claws has carved a niche in the cozy mystery genre by blending pet-friendly charm with clever sleuthing. Fans rave about Wagtail’s idyllic setting, with many wishing they could visit the Sugar Maple Inn. The series’ focus on animals as active mystery-solvers sets it apart, appealing to pet lovers and mystery enthusiasts alike. Davis’s ability to craft relatable characters like Holly, paired with her knack for suspense, has earned the series a loyal following and critical acclaim, including New York Times bestseller status.
The series’ lasting appeal lies in its feel-good vibe and universal themes. Whether it’s solving a murder or baking treats for Trixie, Paws and Claws reminds readers of the joy found in community, adventure, and furry companions. Its growing fanbase eagerly awaits each new installment, proving that this cozy series is here to stay.
- First Published: 2013
- Number of Books: 10
- Setting: Wagtail, Virginia
- Notable Recognition: New York Times Bestseller
Ready to join Holly, Trixie, and Twinkletoes on a tail-wagging adventure? Grab Murder, She Barked and dive into the cozy, pet-filled world of Paws and Claws today!