I recently found myself engrossed in a conversation about cozy mystery novels, and what kept popping up was the love for cat-themed mysteries. While I can’t predict what new titles will grace our shelves in 2024, I can share some delightful cozy cat mystery books that have warmed my heart.
Cozy Cat Mystery Books…
One of the most beloved authors in the cozy cat mystery genre is Lilian Jackson Braun. Her series, The Cat Who…, features the charming and curious Siamese cats, Koko and Yum Yum, who assist their owner, Jim Qwilleran, in solving various mysteries. Titles like The Cat Who Could Read Backwards and The Cat Who Ate Danish Modern offer a perfect blend of mystery and feline charm.
For those who enjoy a bit of humor with their mysteries, Rita Mae Brown’s Mrs. Murphy series is a must-read. Co-written with her own cat, Sneaky Pie, this series introduces readers to Mary Minor “Harry” Haristeen and her sleuthing cats. Mrs. Murphy and Pewter, along with a corgi named Tee Tucker enjoy delightful adventures through titles like Rest in Pieces and Cat’s Eyewitness.
More Cat-astic Reads…
If you’re looking for a touch of the paranormal in your cozy cat mystery books, check out Sofie Kelly’s Magical Cats series. In these novels, librarian Kathleen Paulson discovers that her two adopted cats, Owen and Hercules, have magical abilities that help her solve crimes. Begin with Curiosity Thrilled the Cat and enjoy the enchanting escapades.
Cats with a hint of magic are a natural fit so if you like paranormal you may want to give Familiar Kitten Mysteries a whirl. Meri is black cat familiar. Someone decides to grant him one wish for his faithful service to his coven, and it doesn’t go as planned. There’s a murderer on the loose in Coventry, and Kinsley with Meri’s help has to learn to harness her powers to avoid the killer’s snare.
For a more historical twist, Laurie Cass’s Bookmobile cozy cat mystery books transport readers to a charming small town where librarian Minnie Hamilton and her rescue cat, Eddie, solve mysteries from their bookmobile. Titles like Lending a Paw and Tailing a Tabby are sure to keep you entertained with their clever plots and endearing characters.
Even More Feline Fun…
Miranda James’s Cat in the Stacks series features librarian Charlie Harris and his Maine Coon cat, Diesel. Together, they unravel mysteries in their small Southern town, starting with Murder Past Due. The series combines heartwarming relationships with intriguing whodunits, making it a favorite among cat lovers and mystery fans alike.
And if you don’t mind the dogs getting in on the action, try Krista Davis’s Paws and Claws mysteries. One of the employees at the inn has been killed in a hit-and-run accident—which is looking anything but accidental. Now Holly and her furry companions will have to nose out the murderer before someone else gets muzzled.
Lastly, if you’re in the mood for something a bit different, try Leann Sweeney’s Cats in Trouble series. The series follows Jillian Hart, a quilter who, along with her three cats, solves mysteries in the quaint town of Mercy, South Carolina. Begin with The Cat, the Quilt and the Corpse for a delightful blend of crafting and crime-solving.
Ready for a cat nap after all these Cozy Cat Mystery Books?
Not into cozy cat mystery books? Prefer baking-themed mysteries? Or perhaps knitting? Don’t worry, there’s a cozy mystery out there for every interest.
I hope this introduction to cozy cat mystery books has piqued your interest. Whether you’re a cat lover, a mystery aficionado, or simply looking for a cozy read, these feline-focused whodunits are sure to provide hours of delightful entertainment.
Check out the Chloe Boston mysteries on Amazon.
Also check out my posts on the Best Thanksgiving cozy mysteries.
Be sure to share this post with friends, family and peers.
All the best,
—Melanie
