Mimi Lee Gets a Clue

After taking in a pretty Persian kitten, Mimi Lee Gets a Clue that Marshmallow is not an average cat. Talking telepathically to Mimi, his first words are “‘What kind of name is Marshmallow anyway?’ His fur bristled. ‘Are you fat-shaming me?’”

Mimi is the owner of a brand-new animal grooming shop called Hollywoof in Los Angeles. When her first two customers’ dogs seem too quiet, she visits their breeder, Russ Nolan. Russ is running a puppy mill for teacup Chihuahuas. Outraged, Mimi calls the police and animal control with no immediate success. The next day, a police detective is at her business’ front door. But instead of shutting Nolan down, he is investigating Nolan’s murder. And Mimi is the number one suspect! So Mimi decides to find the real killer.

First of all, I demand parity and equality for dog fur babies. There are several excellent examples of cozy series with “talking” cat sidekicks. There is even one with a bunny Dr. Watson. Where are the detective dogs? If you know of any, please let me know in the comments so I can read them.

Second, Marshmallow represents what every cat owner perceives their cat is thinking. I need to encourage my two cats to watch more tv so they can start “talking” to me too. Marshmallow is a hoot!

Mimi’s attraction and romance with Josh seemed instantaneous and meant to check off the requisite cozy romance box. I would have liked to see more Ma “kopi” setups before Josh appears. The mystery was good with an appropriate number of red herrings. It was educational to see beyond the groomer’s door too. Still Marshmallow is my favorite part of Mimi Lee Gets a Clue and I can’t wait to see what he comes up with next. 4 stars!

Thanks to Berkley Books and Edelweiss+ for a copy in exchange for my honest review.