Great story, setting and amazing cast of characters (both human and animal). So much fun! Swoon worthy males and fun relationships. Highly recommend

Again I thought I came back on here and gave feedback but I really enjoyed this series and wish there was more. I really liked.

In Cat Got Your Crown, Lacy Marie Crocker has been back home in New Orleans for a year. With her pet boutique being bombarded with orders for both her organic pet treats and clothing. In the last book they introduce the upcoming pet pageant being held in the Garden District and everyone is running around getting ready. During a dress rehearsal, Viktor Petrov, the pageant emcee takes a spill from the balcony, but was it an accident or murder? Although one of the committee members is the initial suspect, it comes out that Viktor had many that didn't like him, but would they kill him for it. As soon as Lacy starts poking around, she receives a strange gift, a stuffed kitty from her store with it's mouth stitched closed. Someone is warning her to keep quiet with what she finds. Tapped by her mother to step into a judge's seat because one of the judge's becomes the emcee, she has a lot to juggle in this one.

Author Julie Chase has the ability to combine humor and creative plotting into a story that is fun and entertaining. I really love the characters in this series. They are funny, sassy, bold yet still vulnerable at times. Lacy has her hands full trying to juggle her boutique, the pet pageant and her snooping into the murder of Viktor Petrov. As Lacy continues to snoop, it isn't long before she is in danger and needs to be rescued by Detective Jack. Once again we meet some new characters as well as meet up with the regulars. There is some humor but also some tense moments. The mystery is well plotted, but I did figure out the killer long before the reveal. Overall, this was another fun cozy with great characters, an interesting mystery, some romance development and pets. As this fourth book in the series was published back in 2019, I am assuming it is the last in the series. I enjoyed this one and recommend this series to cozy mystery lovers and those who enjoy pampering their pets.

Lacy is the owner of Furry Godmother store who is recruited to help out at the National Pet Pageant in New Orleans, LA. While at the Pet Pageant she witnesses the Pageant's MC fall to his death and one of her friends is accused of the murder. She receives threats while investigating the murder to try to clear her friend's name. The identity of the killer is surprising. She also has attention from both Jack and Chase. This is a good cozy mystery to read.

Lacy Marie Crocker can hardly believe it’s been a year since her return home to New Orleans. There hasn’t been a dull moment since opening her pet boutique last summer, and thanks to the popularity of Lacy’s organic pet treats, and the arrival of the National Pet Pageant, Lacy desperately needs some help before she is overrun by the demand for pupcakes and crinolines.

The entire Garden District seems to be counting the minutes until opening night of the pet pageant and everything is going spectacularly until Viktor Petrov, the pageant emcee takes a spill from the balcony during dress rehearsal. All signs points to murder and homicide detective Jack Oliver sets his eyes on Eva Little, one of Lacy’s committee sisters and the only other person on the balcony at the time of the fall, as the killer. But when it comes out that Viktor was notoriously rude, the doors blow wide open with potential suspects who could’ve wanted him dead.

Lacy’s determined to find the killer and exonerate Eva, but when Lacy receives a mysterious warning a plush kitty from Lacy’s shop with its mouth crudely stitched over it’s clear that she’s been found first.

The author brings the wonderful city of New Orleans alive right off the pages of the book with her wonderful descriptions. The characters come to life with their animated personalities that it seems like you are visiting with friends as you're reading the book. The mystery is full of twists and turns, suspects, and red herrings that lead to a surprising and satisfying conclusion.

I have enjoyed reading this fun and entertaining series since book #1 Cat Got Your Diamonds and I hope that the author will continue with the series so we can see what other mysteries Angie can find herself entangled in.

I received and ARC of this book from Netgalley and Crooked Lane Books for my honest review.

Debutante turned Furry Godmother seamstress to pets and successful pupcake/tuna tart bakery owner. Lacy Crocker is a fun character who does her best to not embarrass her socialite Mother who would love nothing more than to have Lacy married to a socially responsible and eligible former volleyball star and practicing attorney bachelor named Chase Hawthorne. Chase is childhood friend who always has her back but he isn't the one who raises her pulse. That would be handsome and financially well off Detective Jack Oliver, who would really like it if Lacy could keep herself out of his investigation and danger, just once. What is a Furry Godmother to do when the pageant MC falls down dead on the buffet table and before the body is even cold, Lacy manages to get herself threatened. Too many suspects thanks to the disreputable character

This book is a tremendous fun and thoroughly enjoyable. The writing is light and witty, the cast of characters fascinating and varied and the plot is cleverly thought-out and constructed. I loved how the characters interacted, all very convincing. There’s a slightly madcap atmosphere but it all comes over as perfectly realistic within the world of this novel.
Not the first in its series, the novel nonetheless works well as a standalone, and it makes you want to discover more by this author. Definitely one to read.

Lacy Marie Crocker was already busy running her pet boutique and bakery called The Furry Godmother. When her mother enlisted her help for the National Pet Pageant, that was hosted by her hometown of New Orleans, she grabbed her pink tool box to assist with any costume needs. With her work at her store and the costume repair, Lacy began to feel like it has become a never-ending job!

Just as she was about to leave for her lunch break with her favorite detective. When the Pageant’s Emcee, Victor Petrov, falls to his death from the balcony above and practically lands on Lacy, she is ready to toss the designer costumes and head back to her boutique. As the clues begin to unwind like a spool of her thread, Lacy finds herself caught up in the mystery. Will she be able to sniff out the killer? Or, will the killer find her first?

Julie Chase is a talented author, that brings you in and along with the mystery. With her descriptions of the city of New Orleans, one can imagine being there right along with her main character. As she uncovers the clues and various suspects, I had a difficult time figuring out who killed Viktor Petrov! Fans will enjoy this entertaining mystery. Thank you to #NetGalley for providing this book for my review.

This is the first book that I've read in this series so I had no set ideas of what to expect. Although there were references to previous escapades, it didn't affect my enjoyment of the story having no previous awareness of them. I certainly wish to read the previous books in the series.

The mystery itself had pride of place in this story and there was an endless supply of suspects. There was a lot going on in the story, yet this didn't detract from the mystery which was well-written and taut. Light-hearted and fast-paced, the story ticked all of my boxes for being amusing and highly enjoyable. There was even a little bit of romance!

I loved the descriptions of New Orleans and reading them made me want to go and visit. The author, Julie Chase's brilliant depictions were wonderfully enticing, helping to bring the pages to life. Her characters were all believable and spirited,

The big reveal at the end was quite a surprise and overall this book was well worth reading. The reasons for the murder made perfect sense to me and I certainly recommend this highly entertaining and enjoyable mystery.

I received a complimentary digital copy of this novel, at my own request, from Crooked Lane Books via NetGalley. This review is my own unbiased opinion.

I absolutely loved this book and didn't want for it to end.. The characters at the pet pageant are eccentric and hilarious. Lacy is busy getting pets ready and making sure her mother approves of her outfit. All is going well until the Pageant Emcee falls the balcony and who ever did it want to make sure that Lacy does not to get involved in finding them. I find Lacy a fascinating sleuth and I liked how all her friends helped her in this book especially Jack. I loved that Jack has a huge part in this book and I loved how the book left Lacy and Jack's relationship. New Orleans is a perfect setting and the Author describes it so nicely. I would highly recommend this book and series.

This book was everything I could want in a cozy mystery! I actually didn't get much accomplished because I couldn't put it down. The characters were quite charming. I will be reading more books by this talented author.

Cat Got Your Crown: A Kitty Couture Mystery
By Julie Chase
Crooked Lane
March 2019

Review by Cynthia Chow

In the year since Lacy Marie Crocker opened her Furry Godmother pet boutique and organic treat bakery in the heart of New Orleans’s Garden District, she has become accustomed to catering to clients who spoil their furry companions with custom couture and treats. Lacy’s never been a part of the National Pet Pageant before though, and the traveling Miss Universe for pets is sure to surprise her with over-the-top talent competitions and outrageous animal fashion. Lacy’s society maven mother Violet Conti-Crocker is leading her squad of Welcoming Committee volunteers and dressed to impress, but not everyone is feeling so welcoming towards the grabby master of ceremonies. When Viktor Petrov falls from a balcony and lands in the middle of a catered buffet table, it’s meek committee member Eva Little whom Lacy sees peering down over the ledge.

New Orleans Police Department’s Homicide Detective Jack Oliver shouldn’t have been surprised to see Lacy once again in the middle of his investigations, but he’s still not happy to see her advocating for Eva’s innocence. Jack has to follow the evidence, and with a suspicious amount of cash disappearing after a snooping Lacy discovered it, Eva is only looking guiltier. When she isn’t criticizing Lacy’s comfy fashion choices, Violet is for the perhaps the first time encouraging her daughter’s efforts to investigate and prove Eva’s innocence. Someone definitely wants Lacy to stay focused on sewing cat berets and doggy dancing outfits though, and New Orleans’s rather unique atmosphere is twisted and takes an ominous turn. Apparently roller derby girls weren’t real enough for the town’s take on Pamplona’s Running of the Bulls, as actual bulls are released to nearly stampede tourists and a very terrified Lacy. When a crudely sewed voodoo doll version of the family’s own black-furred feline is messengered to Lacy’s doorstep, she knows that she’s on the right track and Pet Pageant's killer is still on the loose.

In this fourth of the Kitty Couture Mystery series, Lacy spends most of her time out of the Furry Godmother exploring the town and attending Pet Pageant events. Lacy has finally learned to roll with her mother’s exasperating high standards of proper behavior, but it’s the expectation to find a husband and get married that continues to throw Lacy off of her game. It doesn’t help that handsome attorney Chase Hawthorne, who himself has defied family expectations by becoming a pet-specializing attorney, continues to flirt with Lacy and be the suitor of her mother’s dreams. For despite their continually interrupted dates and conflicting schedules, it is the rule-following and very stoic Jack Oliver who makes Lacy’s heart beat faster. Her heart will nearly stop beating completely by the suspenseful conclusion, but Lacy will always have her loving family and friends to have her back and bring cookies. After a year of being suspected of murder, stalked, kidnapped multiple times, and been threatened even more, Lacy’s exciting life shows no sign of slowing down as she embraces romance, her family’s acceptance, and the adoration of her non-human companions.

This is the first book I've read in this series and now I am definitely making a point of reading from the beginning. I love books about New Orleans anyway, because it just seems like a magical and fun place. I think I'll enjoy knowing some of the things I know now from this book when I start the series ;)

The murder of the Pet Pageant MC had Lacy investigating, getting threats, almost run down by bulls and nearly killed during the showdown with the killer. I had briefly thought about the person who was the killer, but I dismissed it. I was really surprised at the reveal, but I'm not sure who else I would have come up with. I was just reading and having fun watching it unfold. It didn't take me long to fall in love with these characters, especially who Lacy ends up with. Imogene was a hoot--I thought it was sweet of Lacy's former nanny to be working for her at her pet boutique now. All along Lacy was trying to make time to hire an employee, and during her big party at the end, the perfect person was revealed. I'm really looking forward to more books in the series, but I do want to have some time to get caught up with the first three books. This book did work as a standalone, since no spoilers were given for any of the other mysteries.

I voluntarily read and reviewed an ARC of this book from the publisher via NetGalley, and my opinions are my own.

Princess Fuzzypants here: While I go on record that I refuse to wear clothing and believe we kitties are gorgeous enough without any accessories, I enjoy this series. In fact, with each successive book, I find I like the characters more and more. Lacy, who returned home to New Orleans a year ago after trying to avoid her expected lot in life as the daughter of the Belle of Society, has not only settled in, she has flourished. Her business is booming and her fame is spreading far and wide, not only for her pet couture and noms but for her skill in unmasking murderers. There have been bonuses to her involvement in crimes including a rather delicious NOLA cop with designs on her. It has not, however, been without its dangers too.
So when a big pet pageant hits town and the MC topples off a balcony in front of Lacy before the proceedings begin, she is knee deep in the investigation.. Thankfully she has both Jack, the cop, and her childhood buddy who would like to be more, Chase, watching her back and every other part of her anatomy. It still does not prevent the perp from threatening her. For the most part, she is pretty savvy but there is still some suspense and excitement built in.
What makes the series for me is the character development. Even Lacy’s mother who is a force of nature, has grown over the series and has become almost loveable. There are some great kitty characters who add to the fun and the stories are entertaining. I confess I sussed the villain out very early but it is still fun going through the process to find out if my suspicions were correct.
A full five purrs and two paws up.

Cat Got Your Crown is the fourth book in the Kitty Couture Mystery series. We meet up again with Lacy Marie Crocker as she’s preparing for the National Pet Pageant. But things take a dramatic turn when the pageant’s emcee winds up dead, and all signs point to murder. And who’s the main suspect? One of Lacy’s committee sisters who she thinks is innocent, so once again, Lacy’s on the case.

I LOVE this series! I’ve read every single book in the series, and I’ve loved every single one. Everything about this series is beyond amazing! The characters are all delightfully interesting and entertaining, especially Lacy. She’s so down-to-earth and likable, and I just love her spirit and drive.

The mystery itself was well-plotted as always and very engaging. It kept me guessing until the end and left me satisfied yet eager for the next installment. I loved everything about this book, and I hope I get to read more books in the series.

If you enjoyed the previous books in the series, then you’ll love this one.

This is a book by the book. It starts by introducing the main characters, the setting and the murder in the first chapter. And then there are incidents and action all the rest of the book as well. Add some romance and quite a few amusing tips, and the result is close to perfection.

Dollycas’s Thoughts

The National Pet Pageant has finally come to New Orleans and Lacy Marie Crocker is right in the middle of everything. She is on hand to help with all the pets apparel with her trusty pink toolbox filled with fabric, thread, lace, sequins and even a tiara or two. She is also working on a new recipe that pets and their owners can share and baking pupcakes and pet couture to keep the shelves and racks full at her pet boutique, The Furry Grandmother.

Rehearsals at the pageant are barking right along and then the emcee takes a header right off the balcony. Viktor Petrov didn’t fall though, he was pushed. Detective Jack Oliver and Lacy were side by side and witnessed the entire thing. Lacy also noticed a woman on the balcony. Eva Little, one of Lacy’s mother’s friends. She becomes the prime suspect but it isn’t long before more suspects come to light. With a firm nudge from her mother and to the frustration of Jack, Lacy starts snooping. But the killer is on her trail warning her to back-off or else.

These characters are so much fun. Everyone is engaging and fleshed out. Again Lacy has a lot of weight on her shoulders. She has had two men vying for her attention, but in this one, Jack seems to be the one winning her heart which makes me super happy. I have been Team Jack for a while. But attorney Chase Hawthorne is also at the pageant. He has found many pet owners need lawyers in times of divorce to set up ownership and visitation of those furry loved ones. The client that brought him to the event has a very interesting doggie that keeps Chase on his toes.

Lacy’s over the top mother is in charge of making the National Pet Pageant run smoothly along with her committee. She expects perfection not only in the event but right down to what her committee members are wearing. Lacy isn’t always on the same page but she does her best to cater to her mother’s every whim. He father is the calming force that is needed a time or two. Lacy’s former nanny, Imogene, tries to stay on top of everything at the boutique but she is running herself ragged with all the extra business from the pageant. We are introduced to a new character, Willow, she seems to fit right in. I really enjoy the dialogue between the characters. There are serious conversations but some are laugh out loud funny.

There is so much happening in this story but it never seems overwhelming. The pace is quick. The mystery has many twists and turns and is very well plotted. I was totally all over the place when it came to the murderer. The red herrings throughout definitely worked on me.

I loved this story and the animal antics never fail to grab me. Lacy’s cat Penelope riding around on her Roomba always cracks me up. This time a dog had me almost rolling on the floor laughing. The humans are funny too. There is a bit of magic this time, I mean they are in New Orleans, but I not sure how I feel about that yet. I have to see where the author takes this idea.

I encourage you to read the series from the start in order if it is new to you. They have all been perfect escapes for me.

I loved this book. The location, the pets. It is well written and the plot moves smoothly. I love Chase's descriptive writing style. Although this is the fourth book in the series, it is my first book I have read in the series. I was not lost at all and look forward to going back and reading the other three.

This used to be one of my favorite series but somehow I didn't like this one as much as the other installment.
There're all the elements for a good cozy: quirky characters, lovely pets, a romance, and a fabolous setting (New Orleans).
The plot is fine but I had some issue with Lucy that I found more insecure and less assertive than in the other books.
The mystery was solid and I liked the twists and turns. What I found a bit tiresome was the sort of Lucy death wish as she's able to find herself in danger even when everything is shouting "TRAP, DANGER".
I recommended this book because it was an entertaining and engaging read even with the issues.
Many thanks to Crooked Lane Books and Netgalley for this ARC. I voluntarily read and reviewed this book, all opinions are mine.

CAT GOT YOUR CROWN, the fourth book in the Kitty Couture Mystery Series by Julie Chase, is the first I’ve had the chance to read but it certainly won’t be my last. From the adorable, inviting cover to the fast-paced mystery, this book captured my attention while providing several chuckles as I turned the pages. I enjoyed how each chapter started with a Furry Godmother’s quote or word of advice to set the tone. The protagonist, Lacy Marie Crocker, owns a pet boutique that sells organic pet treats and handmade pet costumes in New Orleans. In addition to her responsibilities, she’s got her hands full helping her mother organize the National Pet Pageant. The backdrop of this setting effectively captures the flavor and fun that’s purely New Orleans. The author’s descriptions made me feel like I was right there, visiting along with all the tourists descending on the city for the event. As Lacy looks into the murder of the pageant’s Master of Ceremonies, she finds many people would have liked to kill the nasty man. Ms. Chase provides plenty of clues and suspects to keep the reader turning pages. As the investigation becomes heated, so does Lacy’s interaction with Detective Jack Oliver which adds a sweet subplot. I’m looking forward to starting from the beginning and catching up so I’ll be ready to read the next book in this delightful series!