The Best Mystery Books With Cats: Feline Sleuths and Intriguing Tales

Mystery books have captivated readers for generations, but what could make them even more thrilling? The inclusion of clever and intuitive feline characters! Cats, with their mysterious nature and keen senses, add a unique charm to the world of mysteries. This article explores the best mystery books with cats featuring our favorite four-legged investigators. From cozy tales to suspenseful stories, these books will keep you on the edge of your seat while celebrating the extraordinary bond between humans and their feline companions.

1. “The Cat Who Could Read Backwards” by Lilian Jackson Braun:

“The Cat Who Could Read Backwards” serves as the perfect entry point to the beloved “Cat Who” series. Journalist Jim Qwilleran and his remarkable Siamese cat, Koko, form an unbeatable team, using their combined talents to solve perplexing mysteries in the quaint town of Pickax. Braun’s engaging writing style and the extraordinary abilities of Koko make this series a must-read for cat lovers and mystery enthusiasts alike.

2. “Curiosity Thrilled the Cat” by Sofie Kelly:

Sofie Kelly’s “Curiosity Thrilled the Cat” introduces us to librarian Kathleen Paulson and her magical feline companion, Owen. This cozy mystery takes place in a small town, where Kathleen and Owen join forces to unravel a murder mystery that has befallen their community. With elements of enchantment and a dash of romance, this book is a delightful read for those who enjoy a touch of magic with their mysteries.

3. “The Cat, the Quilt, and the Corpse” by Leann Sweeney:

   

In “The Cat, the Quilt, and the Corpse,” Leann Sweeney introduces readers to Jillian Hart, a cat detective with a nose for trouble. Jillian’s knack for solving crimes is put to the test when she stumbles upon a murder while investigating a quilt for a local auction. This engaging and heartwarming series showcases the adventures of Jillian and her feline companion, making it a charming addition to any cat-themed mystery collection.

4. “Black Cat Crossing” by Kay Finch:

Prepare to be enchanted by the magical world of Sabrina Tate and her extraordinary black cat, Hitchcock, in “Black Cat Crossing.” As a witch and the owner of a vintage clothing store, Sabrina finds herself entangled in a murder investigation in a small Texas town. Kay Finch weaves together elements of witchcraft, humor, and mystery, creating a captivating read that keeps readers guessing until the very end.

5. “Catnap” by Carole Nelson Douglas:

Carole Nelson Douglas introduces us to Midnight Louie, a charismatic and street-smart feline detective in the “Catnap” book. This series takes readers on thrilling adventures through the neon-lit streets of Las Vegas, where Midnight Louie assists his human, a public relations freelancer, in solving crimes. With its fast-paced action and vivid descriptions of Sin City, this series is a perfect choice for those seeking a mix of mystery and glamour.

We’re just half way in our mystery books with cats. Are you keeping up? We have more pawsome books below

6. “The Cat, the Sneak, and the Secret” by Leann Sweeney:

Returning to the delightful world of Jillian Hart, “The Cat, the Sneak, and the Secret” plunges readers into another murder mystery. When Jillian’s cat, Chablis, uncovers a body in the neighborhood, she once again finds herself entangled in a web of secrets. Leann Sweeney’s cozy writing style and well-drawn characters make this book a charming addition to any mystery collection.

7. “The Big Cat Nap” by Rita Mae Brown and Sneaky Pie Brown:

Rita Mae Brown and her feline companion, Sneaky Pie Brown, take readers on an adventure in “The Big Cat Nap,” part of the Mrs. Murphy series. Mrs. Murphy, an intelligent cat, assists her human companion in solving crimes in the picturesque town of Virginia. With its cozy setting, well-developed characters, and intriguing mysteries, this series is a favorite among cat-loving mystery fans.

8. “Cat on the Edge” by Shirley Rousseau Murphy:

Shirley Rousseau Murphy’s “Cat on the Edge” introduces us to Joe Grey, a talking cat with a curious mind. Set in a California coastal town, Joe Grey investigates a murder that leads him to uncover a web of secrets. With its mix of mystery, suspense, and fantastical elements, this book keeps readers enthralled from beginning to end.

9. “Paws and Effect” by Sofie Kelly:

Sofie Kelly’s “Paws and Effect” takes readers on a thrilling adventure with librarian Kathleen Paulson and her extraordinary cats, Hercules and Owen. When a dead body is discovered during a local festival, Kathleen and her feline companions find themselves embroiled in another captivating mystery. With its delightful characters and cozy setting, this installment of the Magical Cats Mystery series is a delightful read for cat lovers.

10. “The Cat Who Saw Red” by Lilian Jackson Braun:

In “The Cat Who Saw Red,” Lilian Jackson Braun once again brings us the enigmatic journalist Jim Qwilleran and his feline sidekick, Koko. This time, they uncover a murder mystery at an artist’s colony, testing their investigative skills and their bond. Braun’s skillful storytelling and the dynamic relationship between Jim and Koko make this book an excellent addition to any mystery lover’s bookshelf.

Conclusion:

The combination of mystery and feline companionship is a winning formula that has captivated readers for years. From Lilian Jackson Braun’s iconic “Cat Who” series to the enchanting tales of Sofie Kelly’s magical cats, these books offer intriguing mysteries and celebrate the unique bond between humans and their feline friends. Whether you prefer cozy mysteries or more suspenseful tales, these ten books are sure to provide hours of delightful reading for cat lovers and mystery enthusiasts alike.

Hope you enjoyed our mystery books with cats. But we still have more. A bonus….

Bonus Book: “Complete Catastrophes” by C.T. Mitchell:

As an addition to the original list, “Complete Catastrophes”  part of the Miss Coco Cozt Mystery Series by C.T. Mitchell is a noteworthy addition to our collection of mystery books with cats. This gripping tale takes readers on a thrilling adventure as they follow a feline protagonist through a series of cataclysmic events. With its blend of suspense, humor, and feline charm, this book is a must-read for those seeking a unique twist on the mystery genre.

So, grab a cozy blanket, curl up with your favorite feline companion, and embark on these captivating mystery journeys that celebrate the intelligence, curiosity, and extraordinary abilities of cats. If you need more cozy cat mysteries, go here.