Even Cat Sitters Get the Blues

by: Blaize Clement

Published by: A Thomas Dunne Book for St. Martins Minotaur

Reviewed by Diane Snyder

This third novel in a cozy mystery series featuring Dixie Hemingway got my attention from page one.

Dixie has been pet sitting about four years after leaving her job as a deputy with the Sarasota County Sheriff’s Department. She is still trying to cope with the grief and tragedy of losing both her husband and child in an accident. Even though she is still resistant to dating again, Dixie is unable to ignore the disturbing attraction she is feeling for not one but two very sexy men. One is a homicide Lieutenant who has told her she is a suspect in this recent murder and the other is a lawyer who, at this point, just seems to like her in fluffy pink sweaters and tight pants.

Apparently Dixie has a penchant for being in the wrong place at the right time to be drawn into trouble. Determined not to get involved again, she is seen riding away from the scene of a murder, and Lt. Guidry (who looks like a GQ ad) recognizes her description.

Dixie soon realizes that her new pet-sitting job is at the same address where she has seen the murdered guard. Gaining entry to the house, she finds more than just her client–she finds a five-foot iguana. The apparent owner–who is not only slightly strange but very sick and very blue–denies hiring her.

Dixie begins to suspect that someone has deliberately gotten her involved in this bizarre and dangerous situation. Her concern for the pets in her care often extends to the owners and in this case, the owner is not only ill but alone with the iguana–and both need her help. But is she helping an innocent man or a murderer? And why is he blue? As her curiosity overcomes her reluctance, Dixie allows herself to be pulled into the lives of the people and pets that have been affected by the murder.

This is a great read with fun and humor to go along with the unpredictable plot.

Armchair Interviews says: Just enough spice and sass to keep it lively.