The Big Cat Nap: The 20th Anniversary Mrs. Murphy Mystery

Brown’s 20th Mrs. Murphy mystery marks a welcome return to cozy form after the didacticism of 2011’s Hiss of Death. A car accident strikes Mary Minor “Harry” Haristeen, the postmistress of Crozet, Va., as a little odd. Harry’s suspicions grow as more accidents and a few murders occur, all involving a local auto repair shop and perhaps a nearby racetrack. Harry, whose “flaming flaw is she’s much too curious,” turns for help to her four-footed companions—cats Mrs. Murphy and Pewter and Corgi Tee Tucker—who have their own theories about the crimes, especially after Pewter discovers a body. Harry’s pets are mostly concerned that her snooping will once again land her in trouble and, of course, it does. Amusing exchanges among the cats and dog and their commentary on the humans around them will please series fans. Agent: Wendy Weil, the Wendy Weil Agency. (Apr.)