SIX CATS A SLAYIN'

Six Cats a Slayin' by Miranda James is the tenth novel in A Cat in the Stacks Mystery series. Charlie Harris has a new neighbor, Gerry Albritton who makes him uncomfortable with her overly flirtatious manor. Gerry is hosting a Christmas party to meet her new neighbors, and she sends over her assistant to make sure Charlie will be attending. Charlie will attend if his girlfriend, Helen Louise Brady can be on his arm (protection). Christmas is approaching, and it is Charlie's first one as a grandfather. He is worried about his daughter-in-law, Alex who seems exhausted from work and taking care of a colicky baby. But Alex is not ready to accept help. Charlie opens the door one day to find a box of five kittens on his doorstep with a note asking him to keep them safe. Diesel decides it is his duty to keep the little frisky felines out of trouble. At Gerry's Christmas party, the whole neighborhood has shown up. Gerry has been causing a stir with her attempts to buy up the houses on the street and her over-the-top outdoor Christmas decorations. There is quality champagne and inexpensive appetizers. Suddenly there is a loud crash and, when the crowd parts, Charlie sees Gerry collapses on the floor. Helen Louise performs CPR, but Gerry is pronounced dead by the EMTs. Gerry's death is suspicious, and Charlie is curious which one of the party attendees is the killer (and will be getting coal in his stocking this Christmas). Charlie has two mysteries to solve and Christmas preparations to complete. Will he get is all accomplished before Santa slides down the chimney?

Six Cats a Slayin' is a light and joyful Christmas cozy mystery. Charlie is a unique main character for cozy mysteries because he is male. Charlie Harris is a librarian at the local college in the archive room. His cat, Diesel goes with him to work (and about town) and contributes with his little chirps which are so cute (and expressive). Diesel appoints himself guardian of the kittens which exhausts him since they are so busy. Thankfully, Charlie's renters come up with an idea to keep the curious kitties contained. Gerry Albritton has moved into the neighborhood and is wasting no time making her mark. She has flirted with every man she has encountered and is now trying to buy up her neighbor's homes. It is no surprise when when Gerry ends up murdered. Solving Gerry's murder was a cinch. I was surprised when it did not occur until I was almost halfway through the book. One little detail gave me the identity to Gerry's killer (I kept hoping it I would be wrong since I would have loved a twist). I did enjoy reading on to find out more about Gerry since she was mysterious about her background. The mystery surrounding the kittens was a puzzle and who doesn't love cute felines. Six Cats a Slayin' contains good writing with a gentle pace. Six Cats a Slayin' contains Christmas preparations, taking care of the kittens (in detail), speculation on Gerry's killer, shopping for Christmas presents, food preparation and eating, playing with kittens, Charlie talking about his weight and needing exercise, attempts to catch the kittens' owner, time spent at work, and concern about Alex. Charlie has caring friends and a loving family. They rally round to help out when there is a need. Six Cats a Slayin' is a merry cozy mystery that will have you laughing over the rambunctious kittens' behavior.