Lending A Paw by Laurie Cass is the first book in the new “Bookmobile Cat” mystery series. Publisher: Obsidian, December 2013

With the help of her rescue cat, Eddie, librarian Minnie Hamilton is driving a bookmobile based in the resort town of Chilson, Michigan. But she’d better keep both hands on the wheel, because it’s going to be a bumpy ride.

Eddie followed Minnie home one day, and now she can’t seem to shake the furry little shadow. But in spite of her efforts to contain her new pal, the tabby sneaks out and trails her all the way to the bookmobile on its maiden voyage. Before she knows it, her slinky stowaway becomes her cat co-pilot!

Minnie and Eddie’s first day visiting readers around the county seems to pass without trouble—until Eddie darts outside at the last stop and leads her to the body of a local man who’s reached his final chapter.

Initially, Minnie is ready to let the police handle this case, but Eddie seems to smell a rat. Together, they’ll work to find the killer—because a good librarian always knows when justice is overdue.

This was a fun read which I enjoyed immensely. I loved how the story flowed from beginning to end, keeping me in suspense with plenty of suspects and a couple of twists and turns that snuck up on me. Minnie is a strong-willed and gutsy heroine and I like her determination to find a killer, even when the odds were against her. Aided by her mischievousness cat, this delightfully charming whodunit is a welcome addition to the cozy genre. Boasting a small town atmosphere and entertaining conversation, this was a terrific read and I can’t wait to see what adventures Eddie and Minnie get into on their bookmobile.

FTC Disclosure – The publisher sent me a copy of this book, in hopes I would review it.

previously posted on the Cozy Chicks blog