Review of Pawprints and Predicaments

 

Pawprints and Predicaments

Lucky Paws Petsitting Mystery, Book #3

Bethany Blake

5 Stars

Synopsis:

The Tail Waggin’ Winterfest is the highlight of the season in the famously pet-friendly Pocono Mountains town of Sylvan Creek. But despite attractions like an ice sculpture display, a dogsled race, and gourmet hot chocolate, Daphne Templeton finds herself annoyed by TV producer Lauren Savidge, who’s filming the festivities. She’s critical, controlling, and as chilly as the January air. Daphne would like to tell her to go jump in a lake–and as a matter of fact, that’s exactly what they’re both going to do . . .

It’s the first-ever polar bear plunge in Lake Wallapawakee, and Daphne and Lauren are among the eighty or so people who charge into the frigid water to raise funds for animals in need. Daphne makes it back to shore–with the help of a mysterious St. Bernard–but Lauren is dragged out stone cold dead. Now, with her trusty basset hound Socrates at her side, Daphne intends to assist Detective Jonathan Black in his investigation–whether he wants her to or not . . .

Includes recipes for homemade pet treats!

“Doggone charming from start to finish!” –Cleo Coyle, New   (Goodreads)

Review:

The characters are well rounded and well developed.  I thought all of the characters are engaging and I enjoyed spending time with them.  I really like how Daphne and Moxie are such good friends and they compliment each other well.  Her sister, Piper, and her mom sometimes give Daphne a hard time, but you can tell how much they love her.  And Detective Jonathan Black continues to be the bane of her existence but I think she would date him if the opportunity ever presented itself.  

I still continue to think that all of the animals steal the show.  They all have very distinct personalities and we get to meet a new pet named Sebastian, the cheese loving rodent.  I loved the way Daphne was always talking to them and asking their opinions.  Socrates, her basset hound had me laughing out loud.  The animals are as real to me as any of the humans.  

The writing style flows smoothly and the book is an easy read.  The authors is very talented in her descriptive writing and through much of the book I felt like I was visiting Sylvan Creek, watching the celebration first hand.  The mystery is well plotted and fast paced.  There were enough suspects to consider and clues to sift through and the mystery was not easy to solve.  

I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a well crafted animal cozy mystery. I am already looking forward to reading the next book in the series, I hope the author is a fast writer.

I received a free copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for a honest review.  I would like to thank NetGalley and Kensington Books for the opportunity to read and review this great book.