Cat Got Your Diamonds: A Kitty Couture Mystery

Chase’s uneven series launch introduces Lacy Marie Crocker, the owner of Furry Godmother, a New Orleans pet boutique and bakery. When an intruder who acted strangely in her store earlier in the day attacks Lacy in her storeroom that night, she drives him off with a glitter gun. Hours later, Det. Jack Oliver accuses her of murdering the man, Miguel Sanchez, with her glitter gun. Unfortunately, Lacy’s only witness to Sanchez’s earlier behavior is Pearl Neidermeyer, a customer who was focused on tutus for her dancing dogs. Lacy’s financial backer, Mr. Tater, withholds funds until her name can be cleared, prompting Lacy to start her own investigation. Too many plot threads and improbabilities make this cozy less effective than it could be, but hopefully Chase will show a surer hand in future installments. Pet lovers will certainly appreciate the recipes for treats. Chase is the pen name of Julie Anne Lindsey (Murder in Real Time and two other Patience Price mysteries). (Nov.)