Step into the cozy, cat-filled world of The Mysteries of Max, where a sleuthing tabby named Max and his human, reporter Odelia Poole, unravel murder mysteries in the charming town of Hampton Cove! This delightful series by Nic Saint blends the warmth of cozy mysteries with the playful antics of feline detectives, captivating readers with its humor, heart, and whisker-twitching whodunits. Perfect for cat lovers and mystery enthusiasts alike, it’s a purr-fect escape into a world where cats hold the clues.
With over 90 books and counting, The Mysteries of Max has become a beloved staple for fans seeking lighthearted, family-friendly reads. Its unique premise—cats who talk to their humans and solve crimes—sets it apart, making every page a blend of laughter and intrigue. Let’s dive into how this series came to be, its standout stories, and why it’s a must-read!
How The Mysteries of Max Began
Nic Saint, a Belgian author with a knack for quirky storytelling, launched The Mysteries of Max in 2017 with Purrfect Murder. Inspired by his love for cats and cozy mysteries, Saint crafted a series that combines his diverse experiences—from working as a massage therapist in Mexico to a gardener in Italy—into a vibrant, small-town setting. Living in a quiet village with his wife and cats, Saint drew from his pets’ personalities to create Max, a “blorange” tabby with a sharp mind and a penchant for sleuthing.
Saint’s goal was simple: write fun, clean mysteries that appeal to all ages. The series’ rapid growth, with dozens of books released in just a few years, reflects his dedication to delivering consistent, engaging stories. Fans adore the blend of humor and heart, which has made Max a feline icon in the cozy mystery genre.
The Heart of The Mysteries of Max
The series kicks off with Purrfect Murder, where Max and Odelia investigate a bestselling author’s death in a Long Island outhouse. In Purrfectly Deadly, they tackle the murder of an ‘80s pop star found floating in his pool, while Purrfect Revenge satirizes reality TV with a clever mystery involving a despised celebrity family. Later, Purrfectly Hidden sees Max and his feline crew navigating catnappers and a vet visit gone wrong, showcasing their knack for finding clues in unexpected places.
Set in the idyllic Hampton Cove, the series weaves themes of friendship, family, and community into its mysteries. Max, alongside cats like Dooley (the naive sidekick), Harriet (the diva Persian), and Brutus (the tough newcomer), brings humor and heart to each case. The stories are light, with no graphic violence or profanity, making them ideal for readers seeking wholesome fun. Saint’s witty prose and satirical nods to pop culture add a modern flair, while the cats’ ability to converse with Odelia, her mother, and grandmother creates a magical, immersive world.
The series’ style is fast-paced yet cozy, with each book around 200 pages, perfect for a quick, satisfying read. Whether it’s Max sniffing out clues or Odelia dodging the gruff Detective Chase Kingsley, the interplay of human and feline perspectives keeps the narrative fresh and engaging.
Why The Mysteries of Max Resonates
The Mysteries of Max has won over a million readers with its unique blend of feline charm and clever mysteries. Its appeal lies in its accessibility—fans of all ages, from young adults to grandparents, find joy in Max’s adventures. The series has carved a niche in the cozy mystery genre, often compared to works by Lilian Jackson Braun and Steve Higgs, but its cat-centric perspective sets it apart. Reviews praise its humor and imaginative plots, with readers laughing out loud at the cats’ antics and rooting for Odelia’s scoops.
Its lasting impact comes from its ability to foster connection. Readers share stories of reading aloud to loved ones or bonding over their own cats’ quirks, making the series a heartwarming escape. As Saint continues to churn out new books, the series shows no signs of slowing down, proving that a clever cat and a good mystery are timeless.
- First Book Published: March 2017 (Purrfect Murder)
- Number of Books: Over 90 as of 2025
- Genre: Cozy Amateur Sleuth Mystery
- Setting: Hampton Cove, Long Island
Grab Purrfect Murder and dive into The Mysteries of Max’s cozy, cat-tastic world! Whether you’re a mystery buff or a feline fanatic, Max and Odelia’s adventures will keep you purring with delight.