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The Cat Lady Chronicles #1
Waifs and Strays
Nobody is just a cat lady.
Kit McCafferty's life is quiet, unremarkable and filled with cat hair. In the magical city of Coldstream, located on the border between Scotland and England, Kit is viewed as little more than mildly eccentric and mostly harmless. She passes her days caring for her family of five cats, feeding the local feral moggies, and maintaining relatively good relations with her neighbours.
All that changes, however, when a teenage werewolf shows up at her door in the desperate hope of renting out a nearby vacant flat. Kit knows that the smart move is to tell him to leave. The last thing she needs is to become embroiled in complicated shapeshifter politics. But something about the secretive young werewolf tugs at her heartstrings.
It's not long before Kit ends up caught in a maelstrom of mysterious crime and magical wrong-doing. Fortunately, there's far more to Kit McCafferty than meets the eye and she has a few dark secrets of her own.
Of course, anyone with an ounce of intelligence knows that you underestimate a cat lady at your own peril.
Waifs and Strays is the first book in a new urban fantasy crime series. Expect mystery, magic and adventure with a heroine who will keep you turning pages late into the night. There will also be a lot of cats.
Kit McCafferty's life is quiet, unremarkable and filled with cat hair. In the magical city of Coldstream, located on the border between Scotland and England, Kit is viewed as little more than mildly eccentric and mostly harmless. She passes her days caring for her family of five cats, feeding the local feral moggies, and maintaining relatively good relations with her neighbours.
All that changes, however, when a teenage werewolf shows up at her door in the desperate hope of renting out a nearby vacant flat. Kit knows that the smart move is to tell him to leave. The last thing she needs is to become embroiled in complicated shapeshifter politics. But something about the secretive young werewolf tugs at her heartstrings.
It's not long before Kit ends up caught in a maelstrom of mysterious crime and magical wrong-doing. Fortunately, there's far more to Kit McCafferty than meets the eye and she has a few dark secrets of her own.
Of course, anyone with an ounce of intelligence knows that you underestimate a cat lady at your own peril.
Waifs and Strays is the first book in a new urban fantasy crime series. Expect mystery, magic and adventure with a heroine who will keep you turning pages late into the night. There will also be a lot of cats.
300 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 10, 2025
738 people are currently reading
665 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 198 reviews
February 21, 2025
This was fun and well-written. I'd be interested in how the story will progress in book 2
April 14, 2025
this was a lot of fun reading if you love cats you should love it.
you have cats you have vampires trolls demons that I say cats? werewolves in so many other types of paranormal beings this was a very fun read.
get your coffee find your free and curl up in a great spot and enjoy it with your cat that's what I did. ,
you have cats you have vampires trolls demons that I say cats? werewolves in so many other types of paranormal beings this was a very fun read.
get your coffee find your free and curl up in a great spot and enjoy it with your cat that's what I did. ,
February 18, 2025
Helen Harper is another of my favorite and this debut book in a new series was a wonderful start. Even better it was a middle aged protagonist, Kit, with a lot of Cat, hence the cat lady. Kit is a former assassin, now retired, and rescuing cats in her neighborhood. When she takes in a teenage werewolf, who is then kidnapped, Kit and a new friend, Thane, race to discover who/what is behind the kidnapping before it’s too late. The book is not too fast paced but it’s classically filled with humor and snark. There’s a twist at the end that was shocking so it’s going to be great for the rest of the series.
February 21, 2025
This is the fifth series by Helen Harper that I read - she has become a favorite in this genre - and I enjoyed it as well! As the first book, it laid the foundation of the universe.
Kit is a cat lady - who is also more than who she seems. She's actually ). At first, her days are good and lovely, doing daily tasks, taking care of cats, until a teenage lone werewolf comes and asks her if he can rent her place. Then the teenage werewolf gets abducted.
I really liked Kit - I loved how levelheaded she was. Also her power was cool! Combination of her own skills and the "magic" . I also liked that she was slightly older than other female characters from Harper's series that I previously read.
In this book, Kit joined forces with another experienced lone-wolf, Thane Barrow (who had a backstory of his own). I thought this added a "delicious" dynamic too because it seemed that Thane would be the love interest by the time this series end.
I thought the universe was REALLY INTERESTING and I look forward to more adventure of Kit and Thane. Luckily, book #2 will also be available this year. Yay!
Kit is a cat lady - who is also more than who she seems. She's actually ). At first, her days are good and lovely, doing daily tasks, taking care of cats, until a teenage lone werewolf comes and asks her if he can rent her place. Then the teenage werewolf gets abducted.
I really liked Kit - I loved how levelheaded she was. Also her power was cool! Combination of her own skills and the "magic" . I also liked that she was slightly older than other female characters from Harper's series that I previously read.
In this book, Kit joined forces with another experienced lone-wolf, Thane Barrow (who had a backstory of his own). I thought this added a "delicious" dynamic too because it seemed that Thane would be the love interest by the time this series end.
I thought the universe was REALLY INTERESTING and I look forward to more adventure of Kit and Thane. Luckily, book #2 will also be available this year. Yay!
March 28, 2025
‘Waifs And Strays� is Helen Harper’s latest Urban Fantasy novel. It kicks off a series with the (for me) irresistible title: ‘The Cat Lady Chronicles� featuring the inimitable Kit McCafferty, a cat lady living in Coldstream, a town on the border between Scotland and England, populated by supernaturals of all types. Kit leads a quiet life renting rooms in her house and feeding feral cats but, as the tagline says: “No one is just a cat lady�.
I wolfed this down in a couple of days. It was tremendous fun. A good plot, engaging characters with complicated histories, a fully imagined supernatural world and a lot of cats. Humour lubricates the plot but never drives it. This is a thriller/mystery designed to introduce Kit and her world and keep the reader on the edge of their seat while doing it.
Helen Harper's Urban Fantasy series range from the dark and tense Bo Blackman series (which I highly recommend and which has now been issued as a 55-hour-long audiobook containing all six novels) to the light humour of The Lazy Girl's Guide To Magic. The new series steers a path between the two.
Kit is not who she seems to be and is not typical Urban Fantasy heroine material. I enjoyed finding out who she had been and watching her being pulled reluctantly from the quiet life she'd intended to have in her retirement.
The plot is a nice mix of tension and humour. I was kept guessing at how things would work out right up to the last page and the final resolution made me smile.
The supernatural world is rich and the magic systems are thought through. And then there are the cats - who make everything more interesting.
I'm looking forward to the second book, 'The Dark Hiss Of Magic' which is expected to be released in June this year. I'll be going for the audiobook version as Ruth Urquhart's narration brings the book alive.
I wolfed this down in a couple of days. It was tremendous fun. A good plot, engaging characters with complicated histories, a fully imagined supernatural world and a lot of cats. Humour lubricates the plot but never drives it. This is a thriller/mystery designed to introduce Kit and her world and keep the reader on the edge of their seat while doing it.
Helen Harper's Urban Fantasy series range from the dark and tense Bo Blackman series (which I highly recommend and which has now been issued as a 55-hour-long audiobook containing all six novels) to the light humour of The Lazy Girl's Guide To Magic. The new series steers a path between the two.
Kit is not who she seems to be and is not typical Urban Fantasy heroine material. I enjoyed finding out who she had been and watching her being pulled reluctantly from the quiet life she'd intended to have in her retirement.
The plot is a nice mix of tension and humour. I was kept guessing at how things would work out right up to the last page and the final resolution made me smile.
The supernatural world is rich and the magic systems are thought through. And then there are the cats - who make everything more interesting.
I'm looking forward to the second book, 'The Dark Hiss Of Magic' which is expected to be released in June this year. I'll be going for the audiobook version as Ruth Urquhart's narration brings the book alive.
March 22, 2025
I think I’m really going to like this new series from H.H. At first I wasn’t sure. I love Mr. Harper’s writing style, it is engaging, action-filled, yet light and fun to read - even when dealing with death - and monsters - and evil. I was hesitant only because of the whole cat-lady shapeshifter scenario, it just didn’t sound that exciting. BUT� the story is filled with enough twists and really creative turns that I found myself thoroughly enjoying it!
*I do wish MacTire was the love interest, though� Thane is fine, but the uber powerful are always more fun to pit wits against our heroine.
*I do wish MacTire was the love interest, though� Thane is fine, but the uber powerful are always more fun to pit wits against our heroine.
April 2, 2025
*Source* Kindle Unlimited
*Genre* Urban Fantasy
*Rating* 3.5-4
*Thoughts*
Helen Harper's Waifs and Strays is the first book in the author's The Cat Lady Chronicles. Set in the enchanting border town of Coldstream, straddling Scotland and England, this novel introduces Kit McCafferty—a cat lady with a quiet life and a past that’s anything but. Coldstream is filled with magical beings, including vampires, werewolves, witches, Druids, and a woman with purple hair who is a Cat Sith, a person who can shapeshift into a cat as well as something even more dangerous.
*Full Review @ Gizmos Reviews*
*Genre* Urban Fantasy
*Rating* 3.5-4
*Thoughts*
Helen Harper's Waifs and Strays is the first book in the author's The Cat Lady Chronicles. Set in the enchanting border town of Coldstream, straddling Scotland and England, this novel introduces Kit McCafferty—a cat lady with a quiet life and a past that’s anything but. Coldstream is filled with magical beings, including vampires, werewolves, witches, Druids, and a woman with purple hair who is a Cat Sith, a person who can shapeshift into a cat as well as something even more dangerous.
*Full Review @ Gizmos Reviews*
March 8, 2025
What a great new story starter with a twist! I love Kit and her adventures, can't wait for more! Give me all the cats!
February 21, 2025
A purrfectly relaxing read
Some unexpected twists kept me entertained and engaged. I cannot wait to learn more about the fantastic felines and their idiosyncrasies.
Some unexpected twists kept me entertained and engaged. I cannot wait to learn more about the fantastic felines and their idiosyncrasies.
February 16, 2025
I thoughly enjoyed this story and how the author writes this story. The Main Character is a interesting blend and you need to read/ listen to see a blend of what! The ending is Great!! Narrator does an amazing job with the various characters voices and the entire storyline.
February 15, 2025
Good Read!
I’m a fan of middle aged, practical FMCs, and this is a fun one. The twist at the end made me giggle, and I look forward to reading the next book!
I’m a fan of middle aged, practical FMCs, and this is a fun one. The twist at the end made me giggle, and I look forward to reading the next book!
February 12, 2025
3.5 stars
February 17, 2025
Unfortunately I was quite disappointed with this book. The world has potential and so do all the characters BUT everyone felt like a side character. Very little information or detail, very flat personalities. I didn't connect with anyone so I really didn't care about the rescue.
I'm on the fence about reading book 2
I listened to the audio as well and it was done well but couldn't make up for the lack
I'm on the fence about reading book 2
I listened to the audio as well and it was done well but couldn't make up for the lack
February 10, 2025
(FYI I tend to only review one book per series, unless I want to change my scoring by 0.50 or more of a star. -- I tend not to read reviews until after I read a book, so I go in with an open mind.)
4.75*
I liked the world building and the entire premise of the book and the MC's background.
I loved all the feline characters!
I really liked the MC Kit and I really liked the male who I'm hoping is her love interest
There's a second possible love interest but I'm really, really hoping that the author doesn't go the 'love triangle' route. Not just because if I wanted 'soap opera' I'd watch such, not read urban fantasy. I don't think the other male is a good fit for the MC.
I liked the secondary characters and hope that we see more of the non werewolves & Nick.
I did not see the end twists coming and I adored the latter one! -- I'm not going to spoil it.
I'm going to be impatiently waiting for the next book, which is out in June!
Adding to my 'often re-read' shelf, because it's going to be a book I'll re-read again and again!
First time read the author's work?: No -- This is my favourite of her so far!
Will you be reading more?: Yes
Would you recommend?: Yes
------------
How I rate Stars: 5* = I loved (must read all I can find by the author)
4* = I really enjoyed (got to read all the series and try other books by the author).
3* = I enjoyed (I will continue to read the series)
or
3* = Good book just not my thing (I realised I don't like the genre or picked up a kids book to review in error.)
All of the above scores means I would recommend them!
-
2* = it was okay (I might give the next book in the series a try, to see if that was better IMHO.)
1* = Disliked
Note: adding these basic 'reviews' after finding out that some people see the stars differently than I do - hoping this clarifies how I feel about the book. :-)
4.75*
I liked the world building and the entire premise of the book and the MC's background.
I loved all the feline characters!
I really liked the MC Kit and I really liked the male who I'm hoping is her love interest
There's a second possible love interest but I'm really, really hoping that the author doesn't go the 'love triangle' route. Not just because if I wanted 'soap opera' I'd watch such, not read urban fantasy. I don't think the other male is a good fit for the MC.
I liked the secondary characters and hope that we see more of the non werewolves & Nick.
I did not see the end twists coming and I adored the latter one! -- I'm not going to spoil it.
I'm going to be impatiently waiting for the next book, which is out in June!
Adding to my 'often re-read' shelf, because it's going to be a book I'll re-read again and again!
First time read the author's work?: No -- This is my favourite of her so far!
Will you be reading more?: Yes
Would you recommend?: Yes
------------
How I rate Stars: 5* = I loved (must read all I can find by the author)
4* = I really enjoyed (got to read all the series and try other books by the author).
3* = I enjoyed (I will continue to read the series)
or
3* = Good book just not my thing (I realised I don't like the genre or picked up a kids book to review in error.)
All of the above scores means I would recommend them!
-
2* = it was okay (I might give the next book in the series a try, to see if that was better IMHO.)
1* = Disliked
Note: adding these basic 'reviews' after finding out that some people see the stars differently than I do - hoping this clarifies how I feel about the book. :-)
March 28, 2025
Helen Harper has done it again! Waifs and Strays is an absolute delight and might just be my favorite series from this author. I especially loved the twist at the end—it had me laughing out loud!
Kit, the protagonist, is a no-nonsense, middle-aged woman who seems like an ordinary cat lady and landlord at first glance. However, she has a cool supernatural ability and a secret past that make her anything but ordinary. I loved her practicality, sharp wit, and the way she navigates the supernatural chaos around her. It’s refreshing to see a middle-aged heroine who is competent, resourceful, and not bogged down by unnecessary drama.
One of my favorite elements of this book is Kit’s relationship with her cats. Each cat has a unique name (or rather, the name Kit claims they call themselves), starting with She Who Hisses. This quirky touch adds charm and humor to the story, making Kit’s home life just as interesting as her supernatural escapades.
Read more at
Kit, the protagonist, is a no-nonsense, middle-aged woman who seems like an ordinary cat lady and landlord at first glance. However, she has a cool supernatural ability and a secret past that make her anything but ordinary. I loved her practicality, sharp wit, and the way she navigates the supernatural chaos around her. It’s refreshing to see a middle-aged heroine who is competent, resourceful, and not bogged down by unnecessary drama.
One of my favorite elements of this book is Kit’s relationship with her cats. Each cat has a unique name (or rather, the name Kit claims they call themselves), starting with She Who Hisses. This quirky touch adds charm and humor to the story, making Kit’s home life just as interesting as her supernatural escapades.
Read more at
March 3, 2025
I would reread this again and again. Reminds me a bit of Vanessa Nelson's worlds I've been reading lately but completely Helen Harper humour. And my favourite character of cats. No spice
March 11, 2025
A twist!
For once, it was annending not expected!! I loved it !❤️ I cannot wait to read the next book in the series. :)
For once, it was annending not expected!! I loved it !❤️ I cannot wait to read the next book in the series. :)
April 2, 2025
*3.5 stars
A solid start to a new urban fantasy series; I'm intrigued about where the story will go. Though an older than typical protagonist at 41 years old, Kit was snarky, witty, and had a rare power, as is usual in the genre. Rather than info-dumping all the details of this world, the lore was weaved in when needed in a more organic way that I appreciated. Cat lovers will appreciate the varied personalities of the many cats Kit interacted with, both those that lived with her and those she encountered out in the magical city. I'm not sure if this series is going to involve a romance, but I like Thane and can see him being a good love interest if Harper takes it in that direction.
A solid start to a new urban fantasy series; I'm intrigued about where the story will go. Though an older than typical protagonist at 41 years old, Kit was snarky, witty, and had a rare power, as is usual in the genre. Rather than info-dumping all the details of this world, the lore was weaved in when needed in a more organic way that I appreciated. Cat lovers will appreciate the varied personalities of the many cats Kit interacted with, both those that lived with her and those she encountered out in the magical city. I'm not sure if this series is going to involve a romance, but I like Thane and can see him being a good love interest if Harper takes it in that direction.
April 11, 2025
A solid start to a new series. Really liked Kit. She is mature and a kickass cat lady. Looking forward to how the werewolves the work with her.
March 29, 2025
⭐⭐⭐⭐�
Helen Harper's Waifs & Strays is an absolute gem of a book, a vibrant and engaging read that immediately pulls you into its quirky and compelling world. At its heart is the utterly delightful protagonist, Kit, the self-proclaimed "cat lady," who proves to be a constant source of delightful surprises. Just when you think you have her figured out, Harper peels back another layer, revealing a depth and resilience that makes her utterly captivating.
One of the many strengths of Waifs & Strays lies in its beautifully understated and believable romance. It's a slow burn, a gentle simmer rather than a raging fire, and this low-key approach feels incredibly authentic and deeply satisfying. The connection between the characters unfolds organically, allowing their individual personalities to shine through. And what personalities they are! Harper has crafted a cast so vividly realized, so richly detailed, that they leap off the page and feel as tangible as the chair you're sitting on. You can practically hear their voices, sense their quirks, and understand their motivations.
There is so much to adore within these pages. The pacing is spot-on, propelling the narrative forward with a natural rhythm that keeps you thoroughly engrossed. The prose flows effortlessly, making the story an absolute pleasure to read. Harper has a knack for creating a world that feels both familiar and uniquely her own, drawing you in and making you feel completely invested in Kit's journey.
However, and it is with a touch of disappointment that I must address a couple of aspects that tempered my overall enthusiasm. Firstly, Kit possesses a closely guarded secret, one that carries significant weight and potentially life-altering consequences. While I understood the narrative need for this secret to be revealed, I felt a pang of frustration when it was shared with more than one individual. As the old adage goes, if you want to keep a secret that could save your life, the fewer people who know it, the better. While perhaps serving a plot purpose, this particular development felt a little at odds with Kit's otherwise carefully constructed and fiercely protected inner world.
Secondly, the liberal use of the expletive "f-- k" throughout the narrative. While some readers may find this adds to the authenticity of the characters' voices, for my personal preference, it felt excessive and detracted from the otherwise nuanced and engaging prose.
Despite these reservations, Waifs & Strays remains a thoroughly enjoyable and, for the most part, highly recommended read. Helen Harper has created a truly memorable protagonist in Kit, surrounded by a cast of equally compelling characters, all set within a world that is both charming and intriguing. If you're looking for a book with a unique voice, vivid characters, and a captivating story, then look no further. Just be aware of the narrative choice regarding the central secret and the prevalent use of strong language, and decide if these elements align with your reading preferences.
Helen Harper's Waifs & Strays is an absolute gem of a book, a vibrant and engaging read that immediately pulls you into its quirky and compelling world. At its heart is the utterly delightful protagonist, Kit, the self-proclaimed "cat lady," who proves to be a constant source of delightful surprises. Just when you think you have her figured out, Harper peels back another layer, revealing a depth and resilience that makes her utterly captivating.
One of the many strengths of Waifs & Strays lies in its beautifully understated and believable romance. It's a slow burn, a gentle simmer rather than a raging fire, and this low-key approach feels incredibly authentic and deeply satisfying. The connection between the characters unfolds organically, allowing their individual personalities to shine through. And what personalities they are! Harper has crafted a cast so vividly realized, so richly detailed, that they leap off the page and feel as tangible as the chair you're sitting on. You can practically hear their voices, sense their quirks, and understand their motivations.
There is so much to adore within these pages. The pacing is spot-on, propelling the narrative forward with a natural rhythm that keeps you thoroughly engrossed. The prose flows effortlessly, making the story an absolute pleasure to read. Harper has a knack for creating a world that feels both familiar and uniquely her own, drawing you in and making you feel completely invested in Kit's journey.
However, and it is with a touch of disappointment that I must address a couple of aspects that tempered my overall enthusiasm. Firstly, Kit possesses a closely guarded secret, one that carries significant weight and potentially life-altering consequences. While I understood the narrative need for this secret to be revealed, I felt a pang of frustration when it was shared with more than one individual. As the old adage goes, if you want to keep a secret that could save your life, the fewer people who know it, the better. While perhaps serving a plot purpose, this particular development felt a little at odds with Kit's otherwise carefully constructed and fiercely protected inner world.
Secondly, the liberal use of the expletive "f-- k" throughout the narrative. While some readers may find this adds to the authenticity of the characters' voices, for my personal preference, it felt excessive and detracted from the otherwise nuanced and engaging prose.
Despite these reservations, Waifs & Strays remains a thoroughly enjoyable and, for the most part, highly recommended read. Helen Harper has created a truly memorable protagonist in Kit, surrounded by a cast of equally compelling characters, all set within a world that is both charming and intriguing. If you're looking for a book with a unique voice, vivid characters, and a captivating story, then look no further. Just be aware of the narrative choice regarding the central secret and the prevalent use of strong language, and decide if these elements align with your reading preferences.
March 16, 2025
Gah! Look, 3 stars is a good rating for me. I know I’m a tough critic and authors put their blood sweat and tears into their books. Helen Harper is one of my go to authors, there are only few of her earlier books I haven’t read. While I adore most of the characters she creates, and feel she does an excellent job at world/magic system building, I need more relationship building between characters. I feel like I’ve been consistent in my feedback about this. Multiple side characters called Thayne Kit’s boyfriend, or remarked he was interested in Kit, but I think they maybe interacted outside of a fight or searching for Nick once or twice. I don’t feel like we had enough to jump to that conclusion. All of that to say I felt it was a leap to couple them up, imo. I mean, we met one of Thayne’s exes, which was awkward and the way Kit and Thayne met was he was following her and she lost him, and then the next time they fought. It didn’t make sense the way it was presented. I get them being attracted to one another, but I need more meaningful interactions that show them exchanging information, getting to know each other. I absolutely love that Kit and Thayne are over 40, I want more middle aged characters, just have them interact outside of the action scenes. Like, why didn’t you have Kit go wake up Thayne when she ended up strolling to the fire at that factory where Nick had found a job where Kit learned some important info? It would have been an excellent time to have them talk on the way to learn more about each other. We really don’t know much about Kit when it’s all said and done, that would have been an excellent way to tell us more through those characters interacting and getting to know each other.
Then let’s move to Nick and Kit. WHY is Kit so intrigued by Nick? To the point that she is going to move heaven and earth to find this boy? Again, another relationship we don’t get much backstory or relationship building before we’re off on the main plot line. They knew each other for like a whole hour? It doesn’t make sense. Give me a short chapter of him living in her flat she rented him for a week or two, she starts teaching him how to cook and be an adult, learn about his family or the loss of his parents, and THEN you have him kidnapped so it makes more sense when Kit is so hellbent on finding Nick. I’m not saying it’s too outlandish to think someone would feel responsible for another human in a short amount of time, just build that relationship before you move into the thick of it. Please? It would have so much more impact.
I enjoyed the magic system, this town sounds interesting and I am looking to hear more. The concept of a sith is new to me outside of Star Wars, so I’d like to know more about what that is. I do have to say I am a bit confused by the ending, I may need to read over that again a time or two more to see if it makes any more sense.
Then let’s move to Nick and Kit. WHY is Kit so intrigued by Nick? To the point that she is going to move heaven and earth to find this boy? Again, another relationship we don’t get much backstory or relationship building before we’re off on the main plot line. They knew each other for like a whole hour? It doesn’t make sense. Give me a short chapter of him living in her flat she rented him for a week or two, she starts teaching him how to cook and be an adult, learn about his family or the loss of his parents, and THEN you have him kidnapped so it makes more sense when Kit is so hellbent on finding Nick. I’m not saying it’s too outlandish to think someone would feel responsible for another human in a short amount of time, just build that relationship before you move into the thick of it. Please? It would have so much more impact.
I enjoyed the magic system, this town sounds interesting and I am looking to hear more. The concept of a sith is new to me outside of Star Wars, so I’d like to know more about what that is. I do have to say I am a bit confused by the ending, I may need to read over that again a time or two more to see if it makes any more sense.
April 5, 2025
This is a fast moving story, full of charm, surprises, and terrific elements.
Rating: 4.5⭐️
Another new author and new book and series to explore in Waifs And Strays (The Cat Lady Chronicles Book 1) by Helen Harper.
It’s a paranormal mystery thriller that has a 43 year old woman of mysterious origins and her 5 cats taking in a teenage werewolf boarder who’s soon kidnapped. That’s the basic premise.
They live in a city/town, Coldstream, that’s home to most of the paranormal population and throughout the story, Harper takes us by way of the characters and events through the streets and places of this highly unusual city brimming with otherworldly beings living their typical daily lives. It’s a lively, well worn and believable city and works perfectly as the location and atmosphere of the series.
Kit McCafferty's a character whose life unfolds as the story progresses. She’s remarkable in so many ways. For the book and in series I enjoy reading. One is that Harper has written a retired woman, hugely successful in her former career but forced to take retirement due to her age.
Most women in the novels I read are much younger so it’s an absolute joy to read a main character of her age and experience. And Harper’s dialogue for Kit’s character, inner monologue and the conversations that she has with others seem perfectly in sync with her personality.
She’s absolutely phenomenal.
And holding secrets, all of which need to be disclosed during the course of the story.
The cats , each of whom has its own unique identity, are just as important and well crafted. So too are the people, paranormal characters that are equally powerful in their impact on the lives and multiple storylines Harper is threading through the pages here.
Nick, the teenage werewolf is vulnerable and easily accessible to the reader. Thane too is a good character but could use more depth.
This is a fast moving story, full of charm, surprises, and terrific elements. There’s plenty of gruff emotional moments and satisfying action sequences, but really little romantic scenes. However there’s the potential for some in the future.
And the ending is both an hilarious twist and perfect way to finish the story off. Some people will be shaking their heads in total agreement. Yes indeed.
I absolutely recommend this book. I’m heading to the next. If you’re interested in reading urban fantasy or paranormal mysteries, this is a great fit for you.
The covers are ok. Not sure who the artist is but someone needs to tell them it’s ok to put a 40ish woman on the cover, wearing the clothes she wears in the story. While not all the readers are women , it’s likely most are . And would appreciate a better representation.
Goes for the series.
Book Cover created by JoY Cover Designs/ Covers By Juan
The Cat Lady Chronicles:
Waifs And Strays #2
The Dark Hiss of Magic #2
Rating: 4.5⭐️
Another new author and new book and series to explore in Waifs And Strays (The Cat Lady Chronicles Book 1) by Helen Harper.
It’s a paranormal mystery thriller that has a 43 year old woman of mysterious origins and her 5 cats taking in a teenage werewolf boarder who’s soon kidnapped. That’s the basic premise.
They live in a city/town, Coldstream, that’s home to most of the paranormal population and throughout the story, Harper takes us by way of the characters and events through the streets and places of this highly unusual city brimming with otherworldly beings living their typical daily lives. It’s a lively, well worn and believable city and works perfectly as the location and atmosphere of the series.
Kit McCafferty's a character whose life unfolds as the story progresses. She’s remarkable in so many ways. For the book and in series I enjoy reading. One is that Harper has written a retired woman, hugely successful in her former career but forced to take retirement due to her age.
Most women in the novels I read are much younger so it’s an absolute joy to read a main character of her age and experience. And Harper’s dialogue for Kit’s character, inner monologue and the conversations that she has with others seem perfectly in sync with her personality.
She’s absolutely phenomenal.
And holding secrets, all of which need to be disclosed during the course of the story.
The cats , each of whom has its own unique identity, are just as important and well crafted. So too are the people, paranormal characters that are equally powerful in their impact on the lives and multiple storylines Harper is threading through the pages here.
Nick, the teenage werewolf is vulnerable and easily accessible to the reader. Thane too is a good character but could use more depth.
This is a fast moving story, full of charm, surprises, and terrific elements. There’s plenty of gruff emotional moments and satisfying action sequences, but really little romantic scenes. However there’s the potential for some in the future.
And the ending is both an hilarious twist and perfect way to finish the story off. Some people will be shaking their heads in total agreement. Yes indeed.
I absolutely recommend this book. I’m heading to the next. If you’re interested in reading urban fantasy or paranormal mysteries, this is a great fit for you.
The covers are ok. Not sure who the artist is but someone needs to tell them it’s ok to put a 40ish woman on the cover, wearing the clothes she wears in the story. While not all the readers are women , it’s likely most are . And would appreciate a better representation.
Goes for the series.
Book Cover created by JoY Cover Designs/ Covers By Juan
The Cat Lady Chronicles:
Waifs And Strays #2
The Dark Hiss of Magic #2
February 15, 2025
This was a really fun read with a very cheeky payoff.
Kit Mccafferty is (hilariously) considered a middle aged cat lady. She's fit and in her early-forties, but yeah she talks to cats. She lives in a magical city near Scotalnd and has a room to let in her house.
Nick, a young teen-aged werewolf, the scion of the most powerful werewolf clan, comes to answer the ad for the room. Normally Kit would steer clear. She does not need any of the smoke that clan would bring. And why the heck would this young man need a room when he most assuredly has a room in his family's a mansion?
But rents him the room she does. And from there it all starts popping off. This is a story that is both a quirky small town urban fantasy and a bit of a cozy mystery
There is so much to like about this book:
1) I liked Kit so much as a main character. The author does that thing I really love where as the story goes on we learn more and more about the main character as the book goes on. Like an onion being peeled. And each layer we get some great info. Kit was fabulous!
2) I liked the city of Coldstream, it's inhabitants, the personalities we meet as Kit goes about her business. There is Trilby, the proprietor of the outdoor market stall that carries everything magical you'd ever need and knows more than they'll admit, The MacTire, Nick's uncle and alpha of the MacTire pack, Samantha his cool as ice beta, and Thane the mysterious lone wolf.
3) The cats. I loved how the book conceived the cats and Kit's relationship with them. And how they named themselves: She Who Hisses and He Who Must Sleep and She Without an Ear etc.
4) The overall mystery. Nick's kidnapping. Why he got kidnapped, the slowly ratcheting up of the stakes etc.
5)The Ending. Well played book, well played.
Looking forward to the next one.
Kit Mccafferty is (hilariously) considered a middle aged cat lady. She's fit and in her early-forties, but yeah she talks to cats. She lives in a magical city near Scotalnd and has a room to let in her house.
Nick, a young teen-aged werewolf, the scion of the most powerful werewolf clan, comes to answer the ad for the room. Normally Kit would steer clear. She does not need any of the smoke that clan would bring. And why the heck would this young man need a room when he most assuredly has a room in his family's a mansion?
But rents him the room she does. And from there it all starts popping off. This is a story that is both a quirky small town urban fantasy and a bit of a cozy mystery
There is so much to like about this book:
1) I liked Kit so much as a main character. The author does that thing I really love where as the story goes on we learn more and more about the main character as the book goes on. Like an onion being peeled. And each layer we get some great info. Kit was fabulous!
2) I liked the city of Coldstream, it's inhabitants, the personalities we meet as Kit goes about her business. There is Trilby, the proprietor of the outdoor market stall that carries everything magical you'd ever need and knows more than they'll admit, The MacTire, Nick's uncle and alpha of the MacTire pack, Samantha his cool as ice beta, and Thane the mysterious lone wolf.
3) The cats. I loved how the book conceived the cats and Kit's relationship with them. And how they named themselves: She Who Hisses and He Who Must Sleep and She Without an Ear etc.
4) The overall mystery. Nick's kidnapping. Why he got kidnapped, the slowly ratcheting up of the stakes etc.
5)The Ending. Well played book, well played.
Looking forward to the next one.
March 26, 2025
A Cosy Assassin, a Pack of Strays, and Plenty of Cats
Helen Harper kicks off her new series, The Cat Lady Chronicles, with Waifs and Strays, a fun and fast-paced urban fantasy that blends cosy mystery vibes with a surprising kick of action. At the heart of it is Kit, a seemingly quiet woman living alone with her five cats and a habit of feeding the local strays. It all sounds pretty gentle� until you find out she used to be an assassin.
Yes, it leans into the trope of the retired woman with a secret past, but Harper puts her own spin on it. When Kit takes in Nick, a teenage werewolf in trouble, the story takes off. His sudden kidnapping sends Kit on a mission to track him down, revealing a trail of strange allies and hidden dangers. Along the way, she teams up with Thane, a lone adult werewolf, and together they work to get Nick back.
The plot isn’t overly complicated—this is more of an easy, comfort read—but it moves along briskly and has just enough twist to keep you turning the pages. There’s less detective-style sleuthing than I’d hoped for, which was a little frustrating at times. But considering Kit’s background is more assassin than investigator, it makes sense that her approach is less about clues and more about action and instincts.
The real charm of the book is in the cats, honestly. They’re present without being overly magical or twee, and any cat person will feel a definite warmth there. The twist at the end was a nice touch too, setting up book two with just enough intrigue to keep me hooked.
As for Thane, while he didn’t leap off the page for me, I’m curious to see where Harper takes his character in the next instalment.
Overall, Waifs and Strays is a light, enjoyable read with a likeable lead, a dash of fantasy, and of course, plenty of cats. Looking forward to seeing what’s next in Kit’s story.
V
Helen Harper kicks off her new series, The Cat Lady Chronicles, with Waifs and Strays, a fun and fast-paced urban fantasy that blends cosy mystery vibes with a surprising kick of action. At the heart of it is Kit, a seemingly quiet woman living alone with her five cats and a habit of feeding the local strays. It all sounds pretty gentle� until you find out she used to be an assassin.
Yes, it leans into the trope of the retired woman with a secret past, but Harper puts her own spin on it. When Kit takes in Nick, a teenage werewolf in trouble, the story takes off. His sudden kidnapping sends Kit on a mission to track him down, revealing a trail of strange allies and hidden dangers. Along the way, she teams up with Thane, a lone adult werewolf, and together they work to get Nick back.
The plot isn’t overly complicated—this is more of an easy, comfort read—but it moves along briskly and has just enough twist to keep you turning the pages. There’s less detective-style sleuthing than I’d hoped for, which was a little frustrating at times. But considering Kit’s background is more assassin than investigator, it makes sense that her approach is less about clues and more about action and instincts.
The real charm of the book is in the cats, honestly. They’re present without being overly magical or twee, and any cat person will feel a definite warmth there. The twist at the end was a nice touch too, setting up book two with just enough intrigue to keep me hooked.
As for Thane, while he didn’t leap off the page for me, I’m curious to see where Harper takes his character in the next instalment.
Overall, Waifs and Strays is a light, enjoyable read with a likeable lead, a dash of fantasy, and of course, plenty of cats. Looking forward to seeing what’s next in Kit’s story.
V
January 24, 2025
*I got an arc from Helen*
OH MY GOD A BOOK ABOUT CATS!!
*ahem*
"Waifs & Strays" stars Kit, a cat lady that has five cats (all with excellent names). When she decides to house an orphaned teenage lone werewolf that is being hunted, the hunters are forced to confront that while Kit is a cat lady, that's not all she is... When disaster strikes, Kit races against time to save the place she has grown to love: with the help of her cats (with honourable mention to She Who Hisses-- not one of the quintet).
I am a big fan of Helen's and I didn't think she could top her Fairy Godmother series. BUT CATS! This book is an absolute delight! The book manages to be tense *and* funny. I read this with my mom (who is annoyingly good at guessing twists and turns) and we were both gobsmacked after every revelation! The last chapter was so excellent that I reread it four times after finishing. Plus there's a prominent non-binary character which is awesome to see!
If you want more badassery from characters who are not early 20s, this is the book for you. While Kit certainly has a mysterious & illustrious past, "Waifs & Strays" is not about her coming to terms with her past, or running from it, or any such thing. It is so refreshing to have a book where the MC is a highly trained combatant and is neither bored with their present nor stuck in their past. I finished it under three hours ago and I'm already contemplating a reread.
P.S. This book came about because Helen saw the cover years ago, loved it, and decided that she eventually needed to write something to go with it. I think this is both hilarious and an excellent reason to pre-purchase a cover.,
OH MY GOD A BOOK ABOUT CATS!!
*ahem*
"Waifs & Strays" stars Kit, a cat lady that has five cats (all with excellent names). When she decides to house an orphaned teenage lone werewolf that is being hunted, the hunters are forced to confront that while Kit is a cat lady, that's not all she is... When disaster strikes, Kit races against time to save the place she has grown to love: with the help of her cats (with honourable mention to She Who Hisses-- not one of the quintet).
I am a big fan of Helen's and I didn't think she could top her Fairy Godmother series. BUT CATS! This book is an absolute delight! The book manages to be tense *and* funny. I read this with my mom (who is annoyingly good at guessing twists and turns) and we were both gobsmacked after every revelation! The last chapter was so excellent that I reread it four times after finishing. Plus there's a prominent non-binary character which is awesome to see!
If you want more badassery from characters who are not early 20s, this is the book for you. While Kit certainly has a mysterious & illustrious past, "Waifs & Strays" is not about her coming to terms with her past, or running from it, or any such thing. It is so refreshing to have a book where the MC is a highly trained combatant and is neither bored with their present nor stuck in their past. I finished it under three hours ago and I'm already contemplating a reread.
P.S. This book came about because Helen saw the cover years ago, loved it, and decided that she eventually needed to write something to go with it. I think this is both hilarious and an excellent reason to pre-purchase a cover.,
January 31, 2025
This was a fantastic start to this new series by one of my favourite authors! There still has never been a book that I have not loved by Helen Harper and I have a feeling this series will be my new favourite one!
Kit McCafferty has retired at the ripe old age of 41 and now resides in the preternatural town of Coldstream. Having adopted a fair few stray cats, she has adopted the persona of a crazy cat lady, but there is so much more to her than that! Without revealing any secrets, no-one could ever have suspected Kit of who and what she was!
When she takes on a teenager werewolf as a new tenant, things take a turn for the worse and now Kit and her new ally Thane are in a race against time to find Nick and save him from whoever has kidnapped him, preferably before his uncle, the alpha of the strongest pack in town, finds out and takes his revenge out on Kit herself.
Kit was a great character - I loved her no nonsense attitude and her image as a dressed down cat lady definitely hid what she truly was and gave her such an advantage against not just the bad guys, but against everyone to be honest! I loved what she could do and have never read this before. Her skills definitely came in very handy and gave her the opportunity to do what others were unable to do many times over!
Thane was a great side character and I hope we get to see more of them together again in the next book. And I just loved all the names of the cats!
I received an ARC copy of this book from the author, but this review is my own, honest one! Thank you Helen for another fantastic read!
Kit McCafferty has retired at the ripe old age of 41 and now resides in the preternatural town of Coldstream. Having adopted a fair few stray cats, she has adopted the persona of a crazy cat lady, but there is so much more to her than that! Without revealing any secrets, no-one could ever have suspected Kit of who and what she was!
When she takes on a teenager werewolf as a new tenant, things take a turn for the worse and now Kit and her new ally Thane are in a race against time to find Nick and save him from whoever has kidnapped him, preferably before his uncle, the alpha of the strongest pack in town, finds out and takes his revenge out on Kit herself.
Kit was a great character - I loved her no nonsense attitude and her image as a dressed down cat lady definitely hid what she truly was and gave her such an advantage against not just the bad guys, but against everyone to be honest! I loved what she could do and have never read this before. Her skills definitely came in very handy and gave her the opportunity to do what others were unable to do many times over!
Thane was a great side character and I hope we get to see more of them together again in the next book. And I just loved all the names of the cats!
I received an ARC copy of this book from the author, but this review is my own, honest one! Thank you Helen for another fantastic read!
March 1, 2025
On the whole, I think it's a cute urban fantasy mystery with a sly little twist at the end. I loved the unconventional pairing of a cat-sith (cat shifter) and a werewolf and I think Kit and Thane worked pretty well together as an odd couple working to solve a pressing supernatural mystery. That said, the action scenes were so cheesy that I felt it warranted the deduction of a star. It was actually hard to read in spots. Kit is written as this snarking badass martial arts expert who jokes with people while she's beating them up and it was just hammy, especially because it was usually in an otherwise serious life-or-death scene. Otherwise, I think the book was definitely an enjoyable airplane read for me. I loved the older protagonists and their banter was pretty cute. I also loved the cat characters. The author clearly understands the personalities of cats and cat ladies and this cat lady really enjoyed it.
If the author is perhaps the type who takes criticism, I would say that dialing Kit back to a more believable strength level would make it more compelling and provide more of a reason for Thane to join on future adventures. Kit kept saying "Oh, I can't take all these goons at once, I better pick them off one by one", but then she'd have no trouble taking the guy out and even do improv comedy at him while she was beating him down. Kit's fighting style, to me, should be a lot more indirect and rely more on flexibility and agility. Cats are not very strong, but they will fuck your shit up by knowing exactly when and where to strike. Just a few thoughts.
If the author is perhaps the type who takes criticism, I would say that dialing Kit back to a more believable strength level would make it more compelling and provide more of a reason for Thane to join on future adventures. Kit kept saying "Oh, I can't take all these goons at once, I better pick them off one by one", but then she'd have no trouble taking the guy out and even do improv comedy at him while she was beating him down. Kit's fighting style, to me, should be a lot more indirect and rely more on flexibility and agility. Cats are not very strong, but they will fuck your shit up by knowing exactly when and where to strike. Just a few thoughts.
March 24, 2025
Cat-Sith Ex Assassin
They didn’t play dumb. ‘That Coldstream is already over-run by demons? Yes, I knew.� ‘You could have told me.� ‘Perhaps you didn’t ask the right questions or come to the right conclusions.� They examined me dispassionately. ‘You know that once the genie has been let out of the bottle it can’t be put back in. Demons have roamed this world from time immemorial. It’s true they can’t escape from their own realm without help � but it’s also true that there are millions of them here already.� ‘Hunters art they, first and foremost,� I quoted. ‘Natural predators equipped with sharp claws, keen senses, and a most terrifying agility.� ‘You see?� Trilby said. ‘You had the answers all along. And as the book said, they do murder up to three thousand souls. Your own little furry family are all killers.� They paused. ‘As, I suspect, are you.� I wasn’t going to give them the satisfaction of answering that last comment. Trilby sat down beside me. ‘Anyone who canst bind and command a demon shall wield power most formidable, far beyond the ken of mortal men. Such mastery over the infernal arts doth grant dominion over forces unseen, and with it the might to shape the very world to one’s will.�
Love It GIVE ME MORE.
ALREADY PREORDER THE NEXT BOOK I HOPE WE GET A LOT MORE BOOKS
They didn’t play dumb. ‘That Coldstream is already over-run by demons? Yes, I knew.� ‘You could have told me.� ‘Perhaps you didn’t ask the right questions or come to the right conclusions.� They examined me dispassionately. ‘You know that once the genie has been let out of the bottle it can’t be put back in. Demons have roamed this world from time immemorial. It’s true they can’t escape from their own realm without help � but it’s also true that there are millions of them here already.� ‘Hunters art they, first and foremost,� I quoted. ‘Natural predators equipped with sharp claws, keen senses, and a most terrifying agility.� ‘You see?� Trilby said. ‘You had the answers all along. And as the book said, they do murder up to three thousand souls. Your own little furry family are all killers.� They paused. ‘As, I suspect, are you.� I wasn’t going to give them the satisfaction of answering that last comment. Trilby sat down beside me. ‘Anyone who canst bind and command a demon shall wield power most formidable, far beyond the ken of mortal men. Such mastery over the infernal arts doth grant dominion over forces unseen, and with it the might to shape the very world to one’s will.�
Love It GIVE ME MORE.
ALREADY PREORDER THE NEXT BOOK I HOPE WE GET A LOT MORE BOOKS
March 23, 2025
Helen Harper is a dependable writer for cute and fun stuff. This one isn't an exception. I won't spoil the MC's two secrets for those have not read the book, but I will say that both secrets are revealed quite early in the book anyway, and one I didn't find that realistic with her personality. Either way, it was a fun although out there story.
She names her five cats and those outside by descriptions thinking they should name themselves. Basically, and I could be erring with my memory on exact wording here, she has cats: She who lays in sunbeams, He Who Must Sleep, He Who Crunches Bird Bones, He Who Roams Wide, He Who is missing an ear, a rescue She Who Hisses, etc.
These long names do get a bit awkward after awhile, but of course I started thinking of my own cats with these.
My elderly cat Malz who has always been super attached to me but aggressive could be He Who Scratches, He Who Clings, He Who Yowls (has the oddest night call)
Raven who flees easily could be She Who Hides, She Who Watches TV (first cat I've had that does this) or She Who Snores (She does it loudly!)
Oscar would be between He Who Plays (he's so cute!), He Who Fetches (only cat Ive had who plays fetch), or He Who Trolls (He trolls the other two awfully)
She names her five cats and those outside by descriptions thinking they should name themselves. Basically, and I could be erring with my memory on exact wording here, she has cats: She who lays in sunbeams, He Who Must Sleep, He Who Crunches Bird Bones, He Who Roams Wide, He Who is missing an ear, a rescue She Who Hisses, etc.
These long names do get a bit awkward after awhile, but of course I started thinking of my own cats with these.
My elderly cat Malz who has always been super attached to me but aggressive could be He Who Scratches, He Who Clings, He Who Yowls (has the oddest night call)
Raven who flees easily could be She Who Hides, She Who Watches TV (first cat I've had that does this) or She Who Snores (She does it loudly!)
Oscar would be between He Who Plays (he's so cute!), He Who Fetches (only cat Ive had who plays fetch), or He Who Trolls (He trolls the other two awfully)
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