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Conrad the Cat Detective #1
The Cat Who Caught a Killer
Meet Conrad the cat. You’ve never met a detective like him before.
Neither has Lulu Lewis when he walks into her life one summer’s day. Mourning the recent death of her husband, the former police detective had expected a gentle retirement, quietly enjoying life on her new canal boat, The Lark, and visiting her mother-in-law Emily in a nearby care home.
But when Emily dies suddenly in suspicious circumstances, Lulu senses foul play and resolves to find out what really happened. And a remarkable cat named Conrad will be with her every step of the way . . .
Neither has Lulu Lewis when he walks into her life one summer’s day. Mourning the recent death of her husband, the former police detective had expected a gentle retirement, quietly enjoying life on her new canal boat, The Lark, and visiting her mother-in-law Emily in a nearby care home.
But when Emily dies suddenly in suspicious circumstances, Lulu senses foul play and resolves to find out what really happened. And a remarkable cat named Conrad will be with her every step of the way . . .
318 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 27, 2022
239 people are currently reading
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 563 reviews
February 7, 2023
Enjoyed the story, disturbed by the politics
What a conundrum this book has presented me with! I enjoyed the story, and Conrad the Calico Cat is a wonderful character and a fine detective, although to be honest he is more of a psychologist. I found some of the writing heavy handed with ideas being repeated over and over again (yes, Lulu we know that you have enough money already!) and the, what feel like, lectures on canal life and how not to poison your cat with chocolate, mint, or lilies are a bit annoying. Plus, sometimes Conrad weighs nothing more than a wafty scarf and then, a few chapters later, Lulu is 'getting used to his weight'. Careful editing required.
But what really needed careful editing were the frequent, and unnecessary, references to politics, leaving me with the impression that I was reading a book by a Thatcher admiring, Brexit loving, Covid denier. Whilst that wouldn't be a reason not to read a book in itself as I am more than willing to read books with views different than my own, I would rather not be in the midst of a 'cosy mystery' only to find myself mired in a soliloquy on the sweet nature of that lovely Margaret Thatcher, nor do I enjoy the main character's visit to another character's home being used as an excuse to criticise Labour councils, or being sideswiped by unrequired comments about people with piercings.
Oh, and dear author, if you don't like there being no police stations open anymore maybe stop voting Tory. Just a thought.
Disappointing, because I would have liked to read the next book in the series but I would rather not fund the disintegration of our society and the demonisation of the poor.
For an antidote to this nonsense I HIGHLY recommend reading any Detective Daintypaws book by Andrew K. Lawston. You will love it!
What a conundrum this book has presented me with! I enjoyed the story, and Conrad the Calico Cat is a wonderful character and a fine detective, although to be honest he is more of a psychologist. I found some of the writing heavy handed with ideas being repeated over and over again (yes, Lulu we know that you have enough money already!) and the, what feel like, lectures on canal life and how not to poison your cat with chocolate, mint, or lilies are a bit annoying. Plus, sometimes Conrad weighs nothing more than a wafty scarf and then, a few chapters later, Lulu is 'getting used to his weight'. Careful editing required.
But what really needed careful editing were the frequent, and unnecessary, references to politics, leaving me with the impression that I was reading a book by a Thatcher admiring, Brexit loving, Covid denier. Whilst that wouldn't be a reason not to read a book in itself as I am more than willing to read books with views different than my own, I would rather not be in the midst of a 'cosy mystery' only to find myself mired in a soliloquy on the sweet nature of that lovely Margaret Thatcher, nor do I enjoy the main character's visit to another character's home being used as an excuse to criticise Labour councils, or being sideswiped by unrequired comments about people with piercings.
Oh, and dear author, if you don't like there being no police stations open anymore maybe stop voting Tory. Just a thought.
Disappointing, because I would have liked to read the next book in the series but I would rather not fund the disintegration of our society and the demonisation of the poor.
For an antidote to this nonsense I HIGHLY recommend reading any Detective Daintypaws book by Andrew K. Lawston. You will love it!
August 29, 2022
A mediocre and highly predictable crime story about a retired female detective who misses Margeret Thatcher and being cat-called and her ex-partner who misses the times when you could be a bit racist (not very racist you see, because he's A Good Guy, but he thinks some slight racism should be OK).
Oh and a talking cat. At least the cat is not racist. Sadly, that couldn't save the book.
Oh and a talking cat. At least the cat is not racist. Sadly, that couldn't save the book.
May 27, 2024
reading vlog:
where do i even start..... not a murder mystery.... ann0ying MC.... EVEN THE CAT ANNOYED ME!!! also all the right-wingy lil opinions scattered throughout the book were not for me
where do i even start..... not a murder mystery.... ann0ying MC.... EVEN THE CAT ANNOYED ME!!! also all the right-wingy lil opinions scattered throughout the book were not for me
January 11, 2023
There are so many things wrong with this book. How can you write a crime- mystery about a talking cat and just use it to excuse racism and complaining about Covid.
December 20, 2022
My thanks to Pan Macmillan for a review copy of this book via NetGalley.
The Cat Who Caught a Killer is a delightful, heart-warming and fun murder mystery (yes, I realise heart-warming and murder mystery don’t ordinarily go together) which just happens to feature not just a cat but a talking cat (and one who loves his Evian)!
Lulu Lewis is a retired police detective who has moved to a boat, ‘The Lark�, as her husband died in an accident recently and she can no longer bear to live in the home they shared. Close by in a care home is her mother-in-law, Emily, suffering Alzheimer’s although otherwise in good health. Lulu visits regularly as do Emily’s numerous friends. One morning as Lulu is out on her small patch of land by the towpath where she grows a few herbs, into her life walks a rather unique tomcat for he is a calico, and most calicos are female! But that isn’t the only special thing about him for Lulu soon finds that the cat Conrad can talk (though he understandably speaks only to her), and he makes himself comfortable on her boat. Conrad begins to accompany Lulu everywhere and goes along on her visit to Emily. Emily’s memory is naturally fuzzy but she seems fine otherwise, so when Lulu (and Conrad) returns the next morning for another visit, she is shocked to find that Emily died in the night and has been moved to the funeral home. As Lulu’s brother-in-law was listed as next-of-kin, she hasn’t even been informed.
Lulu becomes suspicious of the circumstances in which Emily died as she seemed in perfectly good health just the previous evening. Conrad raises some questions which add to her suspicions. So she decides to begin to look into the matter—not a full blown investigation, but speaking to people at the home and those who visited Emily, gently digging into the matter. Conrad is with her every step of the way, providing inputs and gauging those she visits. Soon her suspicions are deepened, and she turns to her former colleague, DI Philip Jackson for help. More strange incidents come to light around Emily’s death, and things start to get a touch dangerous for Lulu!
This was an absolutely charming and lovely read which drew me in right from the start, and that was of course because of Conrad. Conrad is a wonderful and loveable cat—intelligent and fun—and not the typical sarcastic cat that stories often portray. He literally walks into Lulu’s life one fine day, and I loved how they instantly form a bond even though Lulu hasn’t had a cat before (Conrad in fact, gives her a few tips on looking after cats). They take to each other immediately and form a nice easy friendship with him accompanying here everywhere, whether it is her investigations, restaurants for a meal, or the ‘pilgrimage� she makes all over town as a tribute to Emily. Conrad also is great comfort to many of the people they visit, and to Lulu both a much-needed friend and partner in her detective work. The fantasy element is restricted to Conrad being able to actually talk to Lulu (and share his instincts and thoughts) but for the rest they must work within the usual parameters.
The book is set in and around Maida Vale, and gives one a great sense of the place and things in the vicinity—Venice Patisserie, Canal Café Theatre, the Warrington, St John’s Wood and much else. One can tell the author loves the place and has spent many wonderful times there; their fondness for it really comes through in the book. (As indeed does the author’s love of cats.)
The mystery itself however was not a particularly complex one. In fact, one can see the answer fairly clearly just a little way into the book, so reading on is more to see how Lulu (and Conrad) get to it. Lulu’s detective instinct works simply to the extent of telling her something wasn’t right with Emily’s death, but it seemed like while the other aspects of the puzzle were also fairly obvious, neither (Lulu or Conrad) caught onto the right person very soon. Nonetheless, there are some other twists and secrets which are revealed along the way, which were enjoyable to read.
But despite the mystery not being gripping in any way, I loved reading the book, especially for the friendship between Lulu and Conrad, and how they work together to catch the killer. It would be fun to see what they get up to next, though I hope the mystery angle is stronger in it.
The Cat Who Caught a Killer is a delightful, heart-warming and fun murder mystery (yes, I realise heart-warming and murder mystery don’t ordinarily go together) which just happens to feature not just a cat but a talking cat (and one who loves his Evian)!
Lulu Lewis is a retired police detective who has moved to a boat, ‘The Lark�, as her husband died in an accident recently and she can no longer bear to live in the home they shared. Close by in a care home is her mother-in-law, Emily, suffering Alzheimer’s although otherwise in good health. Lulu visits regularly as do Emily’s numerous friends. One morning as Lulu is out on her small patch of land by the towpath where she grows a few herbs, into her life walks a rather unique tomcat for he is a calico, and most calicos are female! But that isn’t the only special thing about him for Lulu soon finds that the cat Conrad can talk (though he understandably speaks only to her), and he makes himself comfortable on her boat. Conrad begins to accompany Lulu everywhere and goes along on her visit to Emily. Emily’s memory is naturally fuzzy but she seems fine otherwise, so when Lulu (and Conrad) returns the next morning for another visit, she is shocked to find that Emily died in the night and has been moved to the funeral home. As Lulu’s brother-in-law was listed as next-of-kin, she hasn’t even been informed.
Lulu becomes suspicious of the circumstances in which Emily died as she seemed in perfectly good health just the previous evening. Conrad raises some questions which add to her suspicions. So she decides to begin to look into the matter—not a full blown investigation, but speaking to people at the home and those who visited Emily, gently digging into the matter. Conrad is with her every step of the way, providing inputs and gauging those she visits. Soon her suspicions are deepened, and she turns to her former colleague, DI Philip Jackson for help. More strange incidents come to light around Emily’s death, and things start to get a touch dangerous for Lulu!
This was an absolutely charming and lovely read which drew me in right from the start, and that was of course because of Conrad. Conrad is a wonderful and loveable cat—intelligent and fun—and not the typical sarcastic cat that stories often portray. He literally walks into Lulu’s life one fine day, and I loved how they instantly form a bond even though Lulu hasn’t had a cat before (Conrad in fact, gives her a few tips on looking after cats). They take to each other immediately and form a nice easy friendship with him accompanying here everywhere, whether it is her investigations, restaurants for a meal, or the ‘pilgrimage� she makes all over town as a tribute to Emily. Conrad also is great comfort to many of the people they visit, and to Lulu both a much-needed friend and partner in her detective work. The fantasy element is restricted to Conrad being able to actually talk to Lulu (and share his instincts and thoughts) but for the rest they must work within the usual parameters.
The book is set in and around Maida Vale, and gives one a great sense of the place and things in the vicinity—Venice Patisserie, Canal Café Theatre, the Warrington, St John’s Wood and much else. One can tell the author loves the place and has spent many wonderful times there; their fondness for it really comes through in the book. (As indeed does the author’s love of cats.)
The mystery itself however was not a particularly complex one. In fact, one can see the answer fairly clearly just a little way into the book, so reading on is more to see how Lulu (and Conrad) get to it. Lulu’s detective instinct works simply to the extent of telling her something wasn’t right with Emily’s death, but it seemed like while the other aspects of the puzzle were also fairly obvious, neither (Lulu or Conrad) caught onto the right person very soon. Nonetheless, there are some other twists and secrets which are revealed along the way, which were enjoyable to read.
But despite the mystery not being gripping in any way, I loved reading the book, especially for the friendship between Lulu and Conrad, and how they work together to catch the killer. It would be fun to see what they get up to next, though I hope the mystery angle is stronger in it.
December 18, 2022
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for providing me with a free eARC in exchange for an honest review!
So let me start this review by saying, this book wasn't for me, which was a shame as the premise of a cat-solving mysteries sounded really interesting.
Firstly, I felt like the writing was a bit fractured and sometimes took me out of the story. It felt like I was constantly reading the same conversation, but with different characters. I felt like the story itself was dragged out, and I became bored in the middle, as it became repetitive.
Secondly, I didn't like the character of Lulu herself. Yes, I understand that she was a retired police officer, who loved looking back at the good old days. But a lot of the things that were told through the character just didn't sit right with me. Constantly, complaining about younger people and technology became repetitive and annoying. And don't get me started on her ex-partner wanting to go back to times when you could be jokingly racist to someone.
Thirdly, the setting. I have a lot to say about it! As someone who actually lives in the area where the book is set, I think the author is wanting to glamourize it too much. I constantly felt like maida vale and the surrounding areas were being pushed onto the reader, and it sometimes made the book read like a tour guide of the area. It became annoying when the author was constantly dropping facts every few paragraphs about the area!
Lastly, this book was a mystery, and while there was a mystery it was lackluster. It was easy to see where it was going from the beginning and I felt like we were led to the other characters to make the book longer. Some of the plot points didn't make any sense and could have been left out. I guess the only thing I kind of liked in the book was Conrad the Cat, but even his "meow" at everyone they met became repetitive. It definitely had the good premise to be a good book, but the execution fell flat.
So let me start this review by saying, this book wasn't for me, which was a shame as the premise of a cat-solving mysteries sounded really interesting.
Firstly, I felt like the writing was a bit fractured and sometimes took me out of the story. It felt like I was constantly reading the same conversation, but with different characters. I felt like the story itself was dragged out, and I became bored in the middle, as it became repetitive.
Secondly, I didn't like the character of Lulu herself. Yes, I understand that she was a retired police officer, who loved looking back at the good old days. But a lot of the things that were told through the character just didn't sit right with me. Constantly, complaining about younger people and technology became repetitive and annoying. And don't get me started on her ex-partner wanting to go back to times when you could be jokingly racist to someone.
Thirdly, the setting. I have a lot to say about it! As someone who actually lives in the area where the book is set, I think the author is wanting to glamourize it too much. I constantly felt like maida vale and the surrounding areas were being pushed onto the reader, and it sometimes made the book read like a tour guide of the area. It became annoying when the author was constantly dropping facts every few paragraphs about the area!
Lastly, this book was a mystery, and while there was a mystery it was lackluster. It was easy to see where it was going from the beginning and I felt like we were led to the other characters to make the book longer. Some of the plot points didn't make any sense and could have been left out. I guess the only thing I kind of liked in the book was Conrad the Cat, but even his "meow" at everyone they met became repetitive. It definitely had the good premise to be a good book, but the execution fell flat.
August 24, 2023
A book about a boomer, written by a boomer, for boomers.
I’ll start by saying that I forced myself to finish this book simply because I hate not finishing, but by the first 30 pages I was already regretting it.
Let’s start with the eponymous cat. I was so desperate for him to have a purpose or reason, but there was none whatsoever. He’s nothing but a gimmick, a talking cat with no explanation at all. I really was hoping he would at least turn out to be the reincarnation of the main character’s late husband, or that maybe the main character was actually just playing out her internal detective monologue by “talking� out loud to a cat, but no such luck. The cat is entirely pointless, just happening to turn up the day before the murder victim dies, and doesn’t even catch the killer as the spoiler-laden title implies; his only contribution is wearing a transmitter on his collar, which a pot plant could have accomplished just as easily. The whole cat thing is such nonsense, with apparently every business owner in London other than the sensible chocolatier in Covent Garden quite happy for a crazy cat lady to bring her pet with her literally EVERYWHERE she goes, including will readings, meetings in police stations, a friend’s barbecue and even funerals!
Next, the protagonist herself. Let’s start with the absolutely ridiculous name, Lulu Lewis. Surely the first thing any author should know when naming characters is that it should be an easy name to say? Anyway that’s the least of her problems. Like the author (I assume, going by their “Oh yes!� posts on their Facebook page, which is the only information I can find anywhere online about “LT Shearer�), Lulu is a staunch anti-Labour anti-Brexit Covid-denying bigoted boomer whose only saving grace is that she’s not as bad as her detective friend, who misses the good old days when you could be casually racist and have a laugh at people’s expense, so much so that he finds himself “forced� to conduct police business out of the office and using landline phones. Lulu is a product of the boomer age, sitting on a small inherited fortune and having meals out every single day (including breakfast), not to mention buying a separate meal (and bottle of water) every time, for a fucking CAT. What a spit in the face when you’ve got people who need food banks.
The writing is pretty terrible. Long lengthy passages describing places in such detail with little facts attached that really bring you out of the story, not to mention the constant little political digs. Conrad helpfully gives random little facts about things like why Tesco is called Tesco, which just seems like an excuse for Shearer to add these facts in to seem clever. On page 111 (paperback edition) we are treated to an entire paragraph that is basically just a recipe for preparing sea bass. Not what I want in a crime novel, thanks. And apparently every single establishment in London sells Evian water (other brands ARE available�), and heaven forbid that you give a cat tap water. But the absolute shining example of boomerism comes on page 299 (paperback edition), where the author - without a shred of irony - writes about how Lulu’s in-laws had bought a second house in Cornwall “long before the seaside town had become a Mecca for wealthy Londoners wanting a second home�.
The plot is awful and horribly predictable. Of course it’s the gold-digging Europeans to blame, rather than the sadly gullible but otherwise very proper Englishman. The Indian doctor is a fraud, because of course he is. I’m surprised that the Hungarian girl, Ildi (whom Lulu somehow just “knows� is Hungarian), didn’t turn out to be terrible - although I suppose she was basically just helping herself to a dementia-ridden pensioner’s expensive chocolates. I’m sure an English nurse would never have done that! #eyerole
The evidence is utterly flimsy, and how Lulu gets to said evidence is even flimsier. The side characters are 2D caricatures - at one point Lulu visits a couple who read appallingly stereotypical books - the man reads thrillers and military history while the woman prefers romance novels. All dog people are terrible, with the worst offenders having piercings in their eyebrows, nose, lips, ears “and goodness knows where else.�
Overall, this was a poorly written excuse for a 300-page rant of bigotry with a plot that criminally squanders its own gimmick, providing no explanation or reason at all, written by someone who clearly was happier in Thatcher’s paradise (haha) and who now hates the “woke� 21st century.
I will certainly not be going anywhere near the sequel, or anything else this boomer author writes.
I’ll start by saying that I forced myself to finish this book simply because I hate not finishing, but by the first 30 pages I was already regretting it.
Let’s start with the eponymous cat. I was so desperate for him to have a purpose or reason, but there was none whatsoever. He’s nothing but a gimmick, a talking cat with no explanation at all. I really was hoping he would at least turn out to be the reincarnation of the main character’s late husband, or that maybe the main character was actually just playing out her internal detective monologue by “talking� out loud to a cat, but no such luck. The cat is entirely pointless, just happening to turn up the day before the murder victim dies, and doesn’t even catch the killer as the spoiler-laden title implies; his only contribution is wearing a transmitter on his collar, which a pot plant could have accomplished just as easily. The whole cat thing is such nonsense, with apparently every business owner in London other than the sensible chocolatier in Covent Garden quite happy for a crazy cat lady to bring her pet with her literally EVERYWHERE she goes, including will readings, meetings in police stations, a friend’s barbecue and even funerals!
Next, the protagonist herself. Let’s start with the absolutely ridiculous name, Lulu Lewis. Surely the first thing any author should know when naming characters is that it should be an easy name to say? Anyway that’s the least of her problems. Like the author (I assume, going by their “Oh yes!� posts on their Facebook page, which is the only information I can find anywhere online about “LT Shearer�), Lulu is a staunch anti-Labour anti-Brexit Covid-denying bigoted boomer whose only saving grace is that she’s not as bad as her detective friend, who misses the good old days when you could be casually racist and have a laugh at people’s expense, so much so that he finds himself “forced� to conduct police business out of the office and using landline phones. Lulu is a product of the boomer age, sitting on a small inherited fortune and having meals out every single day (including breakfast), not to mention buying a separate meal (and bottle of water) every time, for a fucking CAT. What a spit in the face when you’ve got people who need food banks.
The writing is pretty terrible. Long lengthy passages describing places in such detail with little facts attached that really bring you out of the story, not to mention the constant little political digs. Conrad helpfully gives random little facts about things like why Tesco is called Tesco, which just seems like an excuse for Shearer to add these facts in to seem clever. On page 111 (paperback edition) we are treated to an entire paragraph that is basically just a recipe for preparing sea bass. Not what I want in a crime novel, thanks. And apparently every single establishment in London sells Evian water (other brands ARE available�), and heaven forbid that you give a cat tap water. But the absolute shining example of boomerism comes on page 299 (paperback edition), where the author - without a shred of irony - writes about how Lulu’s in-laws had bought a second house in Cornwall “long before the seaside town had become a Mecca for wealthy Londoners wanting a second home�.
The plot is awful and horribly predictable. Of course it’s the gold-digging Europeans to blame, rather than the sadly gullible but otherwise very proper Englishman. The Indian doctor is a fraud, because of course he is. I’m surprised that the Hungarian girl, Ildi (whom Lulu somehow just “knows� is Hungarian), didn’t turn out to be terrible - although I suppose she was basically just helping herself to a dementia-ridden pensioner’s expensive chocolates. I’m sure an English nurse would never have done that! #eyerole
The evidence is utterly flimsy, and how Lulu gets to said evidence is even flimsier. The side characters are 2D caricatures - at one point Lulu visits a couple who read appallingly stereotypical books - the man reads thrillers and military history while the woman prefers romance novels. All dog people are terrible, with the worst offenders having piercings in their eyebrows, nose, lips, ears “and goodness knows where else.�
Overall, this was a poorly written excuse for a 300-page rant of bigotry with a plot that criminally squanders its own gimmick, providing no explanation or reason at all, written by someone who clearly was happier in Thatcher’s paradise (haha) and who now hates the “woke� 21st century.
I will certainly not be going anywhere near the sequel, or anything else this boomer author writes.
December 16, 2022
Retired police officer Lulu and her new friend, Conrad the talking calico cat, suspect foul play following the death of Lulu's mother-in-law. A cozy crime mystery with few surprises or intrigue.
While this was easy to read, it was a real struggle for me to get through and unfortunately I DNF'd it at about 75%.
There were a few things that made this book very much not for me, the first being the writing itself. It was extremely rudimentary with every detail over-explained - every outfit change, every drink made, even the washing up. Her travel routes are detailed step by step in more depth than Google maps directions, and as someone who lives just around the corner from where it's set I can tell you it really isn't interesting enough to warrant that! All of this extensive detailing just made it harder to get through without adding anything to the plot or character development.
The second thing, and what made me decide I couldn't finish this book, is the author's decision to insert their grievances about the "politically correct" modern world and how everyone is just too sensitive these days. A serving Met police officer complaining about the Professional Standards Unit stopping them being racist (it's okay, he only wants to be a little racist, as a treat) was the proverbial straw for me. There was no indication from the author or the text that these were bad takes from the characters.
I'm also not really sure what the point of the talking cat was - perhaps this was revealed in the last 25% that I couldn't face. I'm a big cat lover, which is why I was drawn to this book, but even I couldn't warm to Conrad.
The Cat Who Caught a Killer might be a good fit for audiences that agree with author's nostalgia for the "good old days" when there were less consequences for your bad actions, and those who don't mind long-winded descriptions and having their hand held through every step - but it certainly wasn't a good fit for me and not one I'd recommend to anybody I know.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for giving a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
While this was easy to read, it was a real struggle for me to get through and unfortunately I DNF'd it at about 75%.
There were a few things that made this book very much not for me, the first being the writing itself. It was extremely rudimentary with every detail over-explained - every outfit change, every drink made, even the washing up. Her travel routes are detailed step by step in more depth than Google maps directions, and as someone who lives just around the corner from where it's set I can tell you it really isn't interesting enough to warrant that! All of this extensive detailing just made it harder to get through without adding anything to the plot or character development.
The second thing, and what made me decide I couldn't finish this book, is the author's decision to insert their grievances about the "politically correct" modern world and how everyone is just too sensitive these days. A serving Met police officer complaining about the Professional Standards Unit stopping them being racist (it's okay, he only wants to be a little racist, as a treat) was the proverbial straw for me. There was no indication from the author or the text that these were bad takes from the characters.
I'm also not really sure what the point of the talking cat was - perhaps this was revealed in the last 25% that I couldn't face. I'm a big cat lover, which is why I was drawn to this book, but even I couldn't warm to Conrad.
The Cat Who Caught a Killer might be a good fit for audiences that agree with author's nostalgia for the "good old days" when there were less consequences for your bad actions, and those who don't mind long-winded descriptions and having their hand held through every step - but it certainly wasn't a good fit for me and not one I'd recommend to anybody I know.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for giving a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
December 28, 2022
2.5 stars: could have been enjoyable if not for the ex-cop tory margaret thatcher loving main character and the ignorant comments about wishing things were how they used to be. also So Repetitive. how many times do i have to hear that this cat only drinks Evian?
January 29, 2023
I got this book for Christmas, as I'd seen it in a shop and the cover and premise had immediately caught my eye - I'm a sucker for stories involving cats, and I liked the idea of a talking cat solving a murder. Unfortunately for me, when I got the chance to sit down and read it I was, ultimately, disappointed.
First, of all the style of writing itself was...not really for me, I think. An awful lot of over-explaining, which I gave a pass at the start of the book, but when it just continued on... and on.... and on... it got repetitive and boring real fast. The constant back-and-forth between locations with GPS-like details was boring, and about halfway through it was blatantly obvious who the killer was...and yet the book continued to draw this out for pages and pages.
I do want to say that one of the few things I did like about the book was Conrad. I love a talking cat (my love of Kiki's Delivery Service, Sailor Moon and Warrior Cats as a kid speaks volumes), and although he was a bit basic he was pretty charming! A lot of talking cats in books where humans are the protagonists fall into the trap of making cats rude and/or disrespectful, because cats in general are often seen as aloof or harder to love then dogs - unfortunately, cats have the misfortune of lacking noticeable facial expressions (something humans look for by default) and lots of body language, making their expressions harder for us to interpret, hence the widely-held belief that cats don't love you as much as dogs do, or that they're uninterested in humans. So it was a nice change to have a cat openly be affectionate and kind to the human they're with, so thats something - clearly this author likes cats, which is more then can be said for other authors who have written books with cats as a key focus. I also liked that he took an active role in solving the case, which means I wasn't completely let down by the title - he didn't just happen to be there, which is better then expected. Admittedly, he was often there for Lulu to unload exposition, but at least he put a little bit into the narrative.
Now, onto the negatives I'm afraid.
I have no issue with protagonists of books being unlikeable, or being morally grey - I don't agree with the current belief in lots of fan cultures around media that a protagonist has to be likeable or good or they're not the protagonist (misunderstanding that protagonist just means 'the person the book is about' and not the 'likeable guy the perspective follows and agrees with'), but the way this book is clearly trying to make Lulu likeable, while she is simultaneously xenophobic and endlessly going on about the issue with Modern Times. I suppose I shouldn't expect any less from an ex-cop, but the fact the book presents this as it being a likeable trait of hers is just...hmm.
The whole book is also noticeably pro-Tory the whole way through, which really smacks of the authors bias. And I'm sure authors like J K Rowling would say its a sign of the times that we judge an author on their political views rather then what they've actually written, but as a queer person currently trying to survive the cost of living crisis in a Britain that has been held by the Tories for the past twelve years and seen it go to hell in a handcart, this makes the book very hard to digest as Lulu and her ex-partner harp on about the good old days when they could be casually racist to their colleagues as...banter, I guess? The constant complaints about the "Politically Correct" generations and how easily everyone takes offence these days were so endlessly boring even if they weren't questionable, and there is never any indication that the protagonist or her friends are wrong in these assessments which really makes it obvious that these grievances are shared by the author.
Going into spoiler territory here as well so beware:
So, yeah. Ultimately this book is a disappointment, which is a shame - I really wanted to enjoy a book with a talking cat solving crimes. Darn. Sorry Grandma, this is one present I wish I could return.
First, of all the style of writing itself was...not really for me, I think. An awful lot of over-explaining, which I gave a pass at the start of the book, but when it just continued on... and on.... and on... it got repetitive and boring real fast. The constant back-and-forth between locations with GPS-like details was boring, and about halfway through it was blatantly obvious who the killer was...and yet the book continued to draw this out for pages and pages.
I do want to say that one of the few things I did like about the book was Conrad. I love a talking cat (my love of Kiki's Delivery Service, Sailor Moon and Warrior Cats as a kid speaks volumes), and although he was a bit basic he was pretty charming! A lot of talking cats in books where humans are the protagonists fall into the trap of making cats rude and/or disrespectful, because cats in general are often seen as aloof or harder to love then dogs - unfortunately, cats have the misfortune of lacking noticeable facial expressions (something humans look for by default) and lots of body language, making their expressions harder for us to interpret, hence the widely-held belief that cats don't love you as much as dogs do, or that they're uninterested in humans. So it was a nice change to have a cat openly be affectionate and kind to the human they're with, so thats something - clearly this author likes cats, which is more then can be said for other authors who have written books with cats as a key focus. I also liked that he took an active role in solving the case, which means I wasn't completely let down by the title - he didn't just happen to be there, which is better then expected. Admittedly, he was often there for Lulu to unload exposition, but at least he put a little bit into the narrative.
Now, onto the negatives I'm afraid.
I have no issue with protagonists of books being unlikeable, or being morally grey - I don't agree with the current belief in lots of fan cultures around media that a protagonist has to be likeable or good or they're not the protagonist (misunderstanding that protagonist just means 'the person the book is about' and not the 'likeable guy the perspective follows and agrees with'), but the way this book is clearly trying to make Lulu likeable, while she is simultaneously xenophobic and endlessly going on about the issue with Modern Times. I suppose I shouldn't expect any less from an ex-cop, but the fact the book presents this as it being a likeable trait of hers is just...hmm.
The whole book is also noticeably pro-Tory the whole way through, which really smacks of the authors bias. And I'm sure authors like J K Rowling would say its a sign of the times that we judge an author on their political views rather then what they've actually written, but as a queer person currently trying to survive the cost of living crisis in a Britain that has been held by the Tories for the past twelve years and seen it go to hell in a handcart, this makes the book very hard to digest as Lulu and her ex-partner harp on about the good old days when they could be casually racist to their colleagues as...banter, I guess? The constant complaints about the "Politically Correct" generations and how easily everyone takes offence these days were so endlessly boring even if they weren't questionable, and there is never any indication that the protagonist or her friends are wrong in these assessments which really makes it obvious that these grievances are shared by the author.
Going into spoiler territory here as well so beware:
So, yeah. Ultimately this book is a disappointment, which is a shame - I really wanted to enjoy a book with a talking cat solving crimes. Darn. Sorry Grandma, this is one present I wish I could return.
November 26, 2023
never read so much racism in such a short period of time
the level of out of touch and outright ignorant you have to be in order to write a book like this insane. not only is the book rife with consistent xenophobia and racism, but the classism and right-wing propaganda is such a large component of the story that it is one of the main driving forces of the plot.
the main character gets a man deported for a crime he doesn’t commit and upon realising she was wrong, doesn’t even deign to feel appropriately guilty for what she’s done.
not only is this book a disturbing reflection of the vile perspectives which have been popularised by the rise of neo-nazism and white supremacy in recent years � but it’s also just a shit book.
the writing was just awful. the fact that this is traditionally published and likely professionally edited is egregious.
like, you’re telling me a professional editor approved this for publication?? you’re telling me a professional editor thought this was worth printing on paper???
this is a crime against literature.
oh � and the main character of this book speaks positively of Margaret Thatcher. that’s kinda all you need to know.
the level of out of touch and outright ignorant you have to be in order to write a book like this insane. not only is the book rife with consistent xenophobia and racism, but the classism and right-wing propaganda is such a large component of the story that it is one of the main driving forces of the plot.
the main character gets a man deported for a crime he doesn’t commit and upon realising she was wrong, doesn’t even deign to feel appropriately guilty for what she’s done.
not only is this book a disturbing reflection of the vile perspectives which have been popularised by the rise of neo-nazism and white supremacy in recent years � but it’s also just a shit book.
the writing was just awful. the fact that this is traditionally published and likely professionally edited is egregious.
like, you’re telling me a professional editor approved this for publication?? you’re telling me a professional editor thought this was worth printing on paper???
this is a crime against literature.
oh � and the main character of this book speaks positively of Margaret Thatcher. that’s kinda all you need to know.
December 24, 2022
This is about a retired police officer, Lulu Lewis, who is still grieving the death of her husband several months earlier. She looks after her mother-in-law, who has dementia and is now in a home. After visiting her mother-in-law, she is informed the next day that Emily has died suddenly, and this is put down to her advanced dementia and not questioned. Lulu, however is supicious. Luckily, she has a talking cat called Conrad who keeps her company as they investigate Emily's death.
I found that the killer was actually signposted early on. The author introduces a lot of other characters, mostly just to add red herrings and pad out the book. They mostly served as filler, reminding us constantly (and repetitively) how lovely Emily was and what a shame it is she is gone. Having recently suffered a bereavement, I know that this is a sentiment that is often expressed, especially about older people who have died, but it still read a bit repetitively in the book.
The characters themselves are not that well fleshed out, apart from Lulu and Conrad the Cat. And even then I didn't feel like I connected with anyone in the book. This was largely because Lulu and most her family and acquaintances are all rich, conservative-voting and live in one of the poshest areas in London (Maida Vale). None of them have any money worries. They talk about missing Thatcher and missing times when they could be politically incorrect in the police force. They talk about canvassing for Conservative leaders during general elections. They talk about investments and inheritances of millions of pounds without batting an eyelid. I just found myself not really liking anyone in this book for that reason. I didn't hate them, either. I just didn't connect with them as characters.
The plot itself was fairly mediocre, and the mystery was easily solvable early on if you thought about it. The characters fell kind of flat for me, and the only good thing about this was how easy to read it was - I read it in a day, though it is only a short book. Like I said, I didn't hate this, but I didn't love it either.
I found that the killer was actually signposted early on. The author introduces a lot of other characters, mostly just to add red herrings and pad out the book. They mostly served as filler, reminding us constantly (and repetitively) how lovely Emily was and what a shame it is she is gone. Having recently suffered a bereavement, I know that this is a sentiment that is often expressed, especially about older people who have died, but it still read a bit repetitively in the book.
The characters themselves are not that well fleshed out, apart from Lulu and Conrad the Cat. And even then I didn't feel like I connected with anyone in the book. This was largely because Lulu and most her family and acquaintances are all rich, conservative-voting and live in one of the poshest areas in London (Maida Vale). None of them have any money worries. They talk about missing Thatcher and missing times when they could be politically incorrect in the police force. They talk about canvassing for Conservative leaders during general elections. They talk about investments and inheritances of millions of pounds without batting an eyelid. I just found myself not really liking anyone in this book for that reason. I didn't hate them, either. I just didn't connect with them as characters.
The plot itself was fairly mediocre, and the mystery was easily solvable early on if you thought about it. The characters fell kind of flat for me, and the only good thing about this was how easy to read it was - I read it in a day, though it is only a short book. Like I said, I didn't hate this, but I didn't love it either.
October 21, 2024
Bought this book blindly on a whim and wow, I made such a big mistake in doing so! 🤓 This book is a boomers excuse to be racist and the plot is just boring.
February 4, 2024
I had quite high hopes for this cosy mystery book and the bones of it were good: a talking cat, an interesting mystery and lots of homey vibes.
It’s fast paced, has lovely descriptions of food and a few red herrings (no pun intended!) along the way.
But for all of those good things, it felt quite basic. The writing was very simple, nothing felt woven together and the villain might as well have been wearing a cloak and twirling a moustache for how obvious it was.
I also didn’t feel any emotional connection to any of the characters and Lulu made several decisions that I just don’t think an ex detective would make.
There were also a couple of borderline problematic viewpoints from both Lulu (who misses being wolf whistled at in the street?!) and her friends (political correctness has gone mad!) that put me on edge.
This had a good premise and was simple and straight forward to read but it didn’t quite hit the mark for me.
Mine was a gifted copy from Book Break;thank you for the chance of an early read!
It’s fast paced, has lovely descriptions of food and a few red herrings (no pun intended!) along the way.
But for all of those good things, it felt quite basic. The writing was very simple, nothing felt woven together and the villain might as well have been wearing a cloak and twirling a moustache for how obvious it was.
I also didn’t feel any emotional connection to any of the characters and Lulu made several decisions that I just don’t think an ex detective would make.
There were also a couple of borderline problematic viewpoints from both Lulu (who misses being wolf whistled at in the street?!) and her friends (political correctness has gone mad!) that put me on edge.
This had a good premise and was simple and straight forward to read but it didn’t quite hit the mark for me.
Mine was a gifted copy from Book Break;thank you for the chance of an early read!
December 5, 2023
If my racist boomer step-grandmother wrote a book, this would be it. And also there is a cat.
August 30, 2024
this is was ok, th0ugh nothing that i love. not sure if i liked the talking cat and the mystery was so, so slow and not really interesting. actually for me, nothing was all that interesting, though i would probably read the second book, as i my brother got me the second and well brothers trump uninteresting books!
November 4, 2022
Pretty good, it was a nice light read.
Pros:
-Fast and easy to read
-Never got bored, constantly wanted to read the next chapter
-There's a cat in it
- Its a bittersweet story with a fun premise of revisiting all Emily's old friends to discover more about her
-Unique location (The Canal Boat)
Cons:
-The plot was quite predictable
-very repetitive (Lulu goes out to meet someone new, they say the same thing about conrad over and over)
-All the characters were rather unlikeable
-Too much description about places that have already been visited and described
-Way too upperclass and Tory for my liking (Does everyone just own over a million pounds?)
Would of liked if conrad had more to do with solving the mystery, as he seemed to become a none character for the last couple chapters.
Pros:
-Fast and easy to read
-Never got bored, constantly wanted to read the next chapter
-There's a cat in it
- Its a bittersweet story with a fun premise of revisiting all Emily's old friends to discover more about her
-Unique location (The Canal Boat)
Cons:
-The plot was quite predictable
-very repetitive (Lulu goes out to meet someone new, they say the same thing about conrad over and over)
-All the characters were rather unlikeable
-Too much description about places that have already been visited and described
-Way too upperclass and Tory for my liking (Does everyone just own over a million pounds?)
Would of liked if conrad had more to do with solving the mystery, as he seemed to become a none character for the last couple chapters.
January 29, 2025
Cosy and easy read. Enjoyable, and sometimes even hard to put down. However, now that I think about it, perhaps a bit stereotypical in some ways. Especially since the story was written to be expierenced through the eyes of a rather privilaged woman. Due to that, I'm not quite sure wether I'll read the sequels of the series...
May 10, 2024
Inledningsvis var den bra, men sen blev den ganska upprepande med sina dialoger. Katten fick dock inte tillräckligt mycket utrymme, vilket var synd - därav är titeln missvisande!
November 13, 2022
“she saw a cat heading her way, walking in the middle of the towpath as if he owned it. Lulu could tell it was a tom, just from the way he strutted along with his tail in the air, but she knew right away that he was special because he was a calico � a mixture of black, white and orangey brown � and most calicos were female.�
My thanks to Pan Macmillan for an eARC via NetGalley of ‘The Cat Who Caught a Killer� by L T Shearer.
I pretty much fell in love with this delightful mystery from the moment that Conrad, the Calico Cat, walked into Lulu Lewis� life.
Lulu is in mourning due to the recent death of Simon, her beloved husband. She is retired though had served for thirty years in the Metropolitan Police, rising to the rank of Superintendent. She currently is adjusting to life on her new canal boat, The Lark, as well as visiting her mother-in-law in a nearby care home.
Although Emily Lewis is suffering from dementia, her general health is good and so when Emily dies overnight, Lulu has a sense that there’s something suspicious about her death. Assisted by Conrad she undertakes a discreet investigation.
Lulu also contacts one of her former colleagues, DI Philip Jackson, who is still on the job and can offer advise along with covert support and resources.
This was such a charming tale and a genuine mystery that had me glued to my e-reader from start to finish.
I was sad to reach the final page though was delighted to see that she is writing a second book featuring Conrad (and Lulu of course).
A charming cosy mystery bound to delight cat lovers as well as fans of cosies.
My thanks to Pan Macmillan for an eARC via NetGalley of ‘The Cat Who Caught a Killer� by L T Shearer.
I pretty much fell in love with this delightful mystery from the moment that Conrad, the Calico Cat, walked into Lulu Lewis� life.
Lulu is in mourning due to the recent death of Simon, her beloved husband. She is retired though had served for thirty years in the Metropolitan Police, rising to the rank of Superintendent. She currently is adjusting to life on her new canal boat, The Lark, as well as visiting her mother-in-law in a nearby care home.
Although Emily Lewis is suffering from dementia, her general health is good and so when Emily dies overnight, Lulu has a sense that there’s something suspicious about her death. Assisted by Conrad she undertakes a discreet investigation.
Lulu also contacts one of her former colleagues, DI Philip Jackson, who is still on the job and can offer advise along with covert support and resources.
This was such a charming tale and a genuine mystery that had me glued to my e-reader from start to finish.
I was sad to reach the final page though was delighted to see that she is writing a second book featuring Conrad (and Lulu of course).
A charming cosy mystery bound to delight cat lovers as well as fans of cosies.
January 12, 2023
So, my first book review and my first book of 2023 and as it was a Christmas present, id say that’s fairly fitting.
This was a gift as my late cat was also called Conrad and he is greatly missed - so this book had a sentimental feel, initially, as I read his name in reference to a cat it brought back lovely memories.
But what this book really was, was a super pro-Tory, upper-class, predictable crime novel. I felt as if any moment the protagonist, “Lulu� would stick her head out of the book and call me a woke snowflake.
Mentions of covid made it feel like some flash in the pan fad and it made light in parts of police WhatsApp groups being monitored- which seems crass in light of recent events.
Not sure who the writer is but they certainly didn’t write a book where you could feel much empathy for any of the characters. Which is a shame because the premise of a cat detective sounded bloody brilliant. Especially one named Conrad.
This was a gift as my late cat was also called Conrad and he is greatly missed - so this book had a sentimental feel, initially, as I read his name in reference to a cat it brought back lovely memories.
But what this book really was, was a super pro-Tory, upper-class, predictable crime novel. I felt as if any moment the protagonist, “Lulu� would stick her head out of the book and call me a woke snowflake.
Mentions of covid made it feel like some flash in the pan fad and it made light in parts of police WhatsApp groups being monitored- which seems crass in light of recent events.
Not sure who the writer is but they certainly didn’t write a book where you could feel much empathy for any of the characters. Which is a shame because the premise of a cat detective sounded bloody brilliant. Especially one named Conrad.
June 20, 2022
The Cat Who Caught a Killer by L T Shearer is a great cozy mystery that combines some of my favorite subjects: cozy mysteries and cats!
This was just such a unique book. I loved the concept of giving Conrad a voice for Lulu. It was cute, catchy, and gave a nice spin on the traditional furry friend cozy mystery.
If you like cozy mysteries with animal sidekicks, or partners, than please give this one a try.
4/5 stars
Thank you NG and Macmillan for this wonderful arc and in return I am submitting my unbiased and voluntary review and opinion.
I am posting this review to my GR and Bookbub accounts immediately and will post it to my Amazon, Instagram, and B&N accounts upon publication on 10/27/22.
This was just such a unique book. I loved the concept of giving Conrad a voice for Lulu. It was cute, catchy, and gave a nice spin on the traditional furry friend cozy mystery.
If you like cozy mysteries with animal sidekicks, or partners, than please give this one a try.
4/5 stars
Thank you NG and Macmillan for this wonderful arc and in return I am submitting my unbiased and voluntary review and opinion.
I am posting this review to my GR and Bookbub accounts immediately and will post it to my Amazon, Instagram, and B&N accounts upon publication on 10/27/22.
October 23, 2022
I was intrigued by the title of this book and when I read the blurb, I thought I’d give it a go. I’m so glad I decided to read this book as it’s a quirky, cosy crime story.
It took a while to get used to the cat talking to Lulu but then I quite enjoyed his insights into life.
Emily’s mother in law passed away suddenly and Lulu is convinced she did not die of natural causes. Proving this is easier said than done though.
With Conrad the cat helping her though, Lulu is soon on the trail of the killer and together they work on finding the killer.
I’d love to know what happens next for Lulu and Conrad.
A great book that I really enjoyed.
Thanks to Pan MacMillan and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book.
It took a while to get used to the cat talking to Lulu but then I quite enjoyed his insights into life.
Emily’s mother in law passed away suddenly and Lulu is convinced she did not die of natural causes. Proving this is easier said than done though.
With Conrad the cat helping her though, Lulu is soon on the trail of the killer and together they work on finding the killer.
I’d love to know what happens next for Lulu and Conrad.
A great book that I really enjoyed.
Thanks to Pan MacMillan and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book.
January 4, 2023
Conrad is a talking cat, which is pretty cool. He walks into Lulu’s life and helps her unravel the mystery surrounding her mother-in-law’s death. To be honest the cat doesn’t do much detective work, he follows Lulu around and talks to her while she investigates.
The mystery / plot itself is fairly simple, as advertised, but I did enjoy it and I admit I had the wrong person guessed as the suspect.
Overall, a fairly light read, however the author does have a habit of over explaining things that really could have been left out. Seriously, I didn’t need to read the full recipe of how Lulu made her dinner.
decent cat but shame the author is clearly a raging Tory
The mystery / plot itself is fairly simple, as advertised, but I did enjoy it and I admit I had the wrong person guessed as the suspect.
Overall, a fairly light read, however the author does have a habit of over explaining things that really could have been left out. Seriously, I didn’t need to read the full recipe of how Lulu made her dinner.
decent cat but shame the author is clearly a raging Tory
October 21, 2023
You can fit so much racism in this bad bo(ok)y
January 6, 2024
A very charming and... gentle mystery novel but a bit predictable, one extra star for the inclusion of a cat.
July 30, 2024
this was such a Thursday Murder Club wannabe, but badly done. very predictable and too much boomerish complaining about social media and cancel culture and wokeness or whatever� shut up
April 25, 2024
I audiobook-ed this which definitely added an extra charm to because the narration brought Conrad the Cat to life.
It’s not really ‘The Cat Who Caught A Killer� more so ‘The Talking Cat and a woman look deeper into suspicious circumstances surrounding her Mother-in-law’s death�. The mystery was not that strong which honestly was off putting because things were in plain daylight right from the beginning but our duo couldn’t see it. Don’t go in expecting a good mystery with a twist. Many loopholes and the annoying suspects and ‘in your face� clues were ignored from the beginning only for them to play a part in the end. And to show that Lulu (The MC) is a retired police officer 🧐 qnd we get it Lulu, you don’t need the money, you’re rich! But then why are you investigating this matter and ignoring the fact that there are upwards of 12 million pounds involved. Not a thing you can ignore 😒
But the plot of a talking cat who aides and comforts a grieving woman was its redeeming quality. My favorite parts of the story were where Conrad and Lulu were having random conversations and the cat was catting.
I will be tuning in for the second book where I can only hope that the mystery is good and that the Cat actually does the detective work. Because there’s so much scope here that he can run covert missions like listening in on suspects conversations as an unassuming cat, getting into spaces where the detectives can’t get, like I see the potential, and I want it explored!
PS - Many notes of casual rascism/sexism (in the pretext of ‘in the old days�)
It’s not really ‘The Cat Who Caught A Killer� more so ‘The Talking Cat and a woman look deeper into suspicious circumstances surrounding her Mother-in-law’s death�. The mystery was not that strong which honestly was off putting because things were in plain daylight right from the beginning but our duo couldn’t see it. Don’t go in expecting a good mystery with a twist. Many loopholes and the annoying suspects and ‘in your face� clues were ignored from the beginning only for them to play a part in the end. And to show that Lulu (The MC) is a retired police officer 🧐 qnd we get it Lulu, you don’t need the money, you’re rich! But then why are you investigating this matter and ignoring the fact that there are upwards of 12 million pounds involved. Not a thing you can ignore 😒
But the plot of a talking cat who aides and comforts a grieving woman was its redeeming quality. My favorite parts of the story were where Conrad and Lulu were having random conversations and the cat was catting.
I will be tuning in for the second book where I can only hope that the mystery is good and that the Cat actually does the detective work. Because there’s so much scope here that he can run covert missions like listening in on suspects conversations as an unassuming cat, getting into spaces where the detectives can’t get, like I see the potential, and I want it explored!
PS - Many notes of casual rascism/sexism (in the pretext of ‘in the old days�)
November 6, 2022
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for giving me a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Following the death of her mother-in-law, retired police superintendent Lulu and her newly acquired friend Conrad the talking calico cat suspect that all is not what it seems and investigate further. This is marketed as a cosy crime mystery, and it’s definitely a gentle story that’s easy to follow as it unfolds with no explosive or unexpected twists.
However, this wasn’t for me and I had to limp through it. The author is definitely older and can’t help inserting their gripes with how sensitive and bad everyone is now and how much better things were in the Good Old Days when young people didn’t have piercings or hurt feelings on social media, or when police officers could be racist as a little jokey joke with no consequences (these examples are lifted straight from the book) - for a cosy mystery, there’s a lot of politicising on the author’s part. There’s also a lot of meandering, extensive description and praise for specific areas of London, notably Maida Vale and Little Venice, which gets repetitive and boring to read after the third consecutive mention in the same chapter.
A la Stephenie Meyer, every single action is accounted for. Lulu’s every single wardrobe change, her (long) walking routes, even the way she makes a mug of instant coffee is painstakingly recorded step by step. This adds nothing to the plot, no red herrings or clues for later reveals are part of these long winded descriptions, and it takes up so much of the word count that it makes reading this book much more of a slog than it needs to be.
I think this is a good fit for an older reader who shares the author’s more conservative values and ‘back in my day� nostalgia. It’s easy to read if you can get through the repetitive, overblown description. However, I didn’t enjoy it and wouldn’t jump to recommend it.
Following the death of her mother-in-law, retired police superintendent Lulu and her newly acquired friend Conrad the talking calico cat suspect that all is not what it seems and investigate further. This is marketed as a cosy crime mystery, and it’s definitely a gentle story that’s easy to follow as it unfolds with no explosive or unexpected twists.
However, this wasn’t for me and I had to limp through it. The author is definitely older and can’t help inserting their gripes with how sensitive and bad everyone is now and how much better things were in the Good Old Days when young people didn’t have piercings or hurt feelings on social media, or when police officers could be racist as a little jokey joke with no consequences (these examples are lifted straight from the book) - for a cosy mystery, there’s a lot of politicising on the author’s part. There’s also a lot of meandering, extensive description and praise for specific areas of London, notably Maida Vale and Little Venice, which gets repetitive and boring to read after the third consecutive mention in the same chapter.
A la Stephenie Meyer, every single action is accounted for. Lulu’s every single wardrobe change, her (long) walking routes, even the way she makes a mug of instant coffee is painstakingly recorded step by step. This adds nothing to the plot, no red herrings or clues for later reveals are part of these long winded descriptions, and it takes up so much of the word count that it makes reading this book much more of a slog than it needs to be.
I think this is a good fit for an older reader who shares the author’s more conservative values and ‘back in my day� nostalgia. It’s easy to read if you can get through the repetitive, overblown description. However, I didn’t enjoy it and wouldn’t jump to recommend it.
May 11, 2024
An ex-detective and a talking cat? A nice pair!
The story progression is slow but nice as we get to know about Lulu's family and history. Having the main character be an ex-detective obviously has its coincidences and perks, but that's what the author wrote, so it's best to just enjoy it!
The main cons are the ending being a little predictable, Lulu being outsmarted by a cat despite her experience, and the opinions about how things were handled during the pandemic are controversial. But, unlike the review-bombers before me, you can let them slide and acknowledge the author's opinion and still enjoy the cosy murder mystery.
The story progression is slow but nice as we get to know about Lulu's family and history. Having the main character be an ex-detective obviously has its coincidences and perks, but that's what the author wrote, so it's best to just enjoy it!
The main cons are the ending being a little predictable, Lulu being outsmarted by a cat despite her experience, and the opinions about how things were handled during the pandemic are controversial. But, unlike the review-bombers before me, you can let them slide and acknowledge the author's opinion and still enjoy the cosy murder mystery.
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