Delas Heras’s writing is lyrical and immersive, drawing readers into Bianca’s vibrant world. Each life Bianca leads provides a unique perspective, tackling themes of identity, resilience, and the impact of choices. The narrative gracefully balances moments of humor and poignancy, making Bianca’s journey relatable and engaging.

The characters are well-crafted, each adding depth to Bianca’s experiences. As she navigates friendships, family dynamics, and personal growth, readers are invited to reflect on their own lives and the myriad possibilities that come with each decision.

Thank you NetGalley for approving me for this book. I am so glad I was able to read this book as I really enjoyed this and will read more by this author.

If you love cozy mysteries, this one is for you! I was hooked from the first page to the last with a blend of suspense and lighthearted moments. Bianca is a quirky character that you fall in love with right from the start!

I received a review copy of this book from Double Six Books via NetGalley for which my thanks.

1950s New York—a journalist killed in a tragic accident— his heartbroken fiancée seeking revenge—ruthless mobsters—a glamorous former CIA operative turned contract killer—underdog policemen—restless ghosts—in other words, all the elements for a thoroughly entertaining read, and this was what The Nine Lives of Bianca Moon (2023) proved to be with its setting in an alternative world inhabited by dogs and cats making it purrfect indeed!

In The Nine Lives of Bianca Moon, journalist Flint Lockford newshound for the Knickerbocker Gazette, is going about his usual routine—work, lunch at his favourite diner—only it is a special day where this Irish wolfhound plans to propose to the girl he loves, Bianca Moon (an angora) that evening. But this is not meant to be as he is tragically killed in an accident. But as his ghost leaves his body and he sees something, he is convinced it isn’t an accident but murder. But who and why?

At the 6th precinct, detective Morton Digby, a Border Collie and his new partner J.B. Puddleworth, a Scottie who’s recently transferred to the city, are right at the bottom of the ladder. Digby is looked down on and at the receiving end of bullying from colleagues being a ‘country’ boy and Puddleworth an outsider (who isn’t too fond of the heat and has perhaps too refined ways). Handed Flint’s case as it’s thought to be an accident, they soon find clues that point to it being otherwise. Given limited time by their Captain, they soon start to look into various possible suspects but which of these could have done it?

Hearing of Flint’s death, Bianca Moon is heartbroken. But when she finds out its murder, thoughts of revenge take over and with little hope from Digby and Puddleworth (at least as she thinks), she wants to track down the killer herself—this means facing a range of menacing suspects—a mobster, a smuggler of antiques, even a bootlegger among them. She can’t turn to her family as she hadn’t even told them she was marrying a dog, but Roxy an alley cat whom she works with provides unexpected help and support but much as she tries can’t dissuade Bianca from courting danger, Bianca is not one to back down.

Meanwhile Flint who has turned into a spirit continues on in this realm for a reason, he’s worried about Bianca. Other spirits who haven’t been able to cross for reasons of their own take him under their wing helping him find shelter in an old courtroom (now one of the various quarters for ghosts in the city) and a whole new set of friends, and these are also willing to help him communicate with Bianca and keep her out of trouble. But between Bianca being as she is and circumstances as they are, this isn’t always possible. Secrets and people from Flint’s past also resurface adding to the complications.

Do detectives Digby and Puddleworth (who can well be seen as bumbling) manage to track the killer down? Can Flint protect Bianca? What becomes of him eventually?

Told from various perspectives, among them mainly Flint, Digby and Bianca—and one other which I’ll leave you to find out, The Nine Lives of Bianca Moon is a fast paced and highly entertaining tale from start to finish. The mystery of Flint’s death which involves a contract killing and a range of intimidating suspects keeps one engaged and the answers aren’t easily reached. It takes both spirits and humans (or rather dogs and cats) to get to it. In fact, even when one thinks one has got it and is simply waiting for the denouement, there is still a surprise in store which one doesn’t quite see coming. The mystery is explored through the stories of the various people involved and interested in getting answers, whether it is Digby and Puddleworth, Bianca or Flint himself and following each of them we also follow along their stories meeting a host of characters on the way. Besides the main thread of the mystery, though linked to it, are also plenty of other surprises and developments that keep coming all through, drawing one in some more.

The characters are nicely done, dogs and cats though they may be—but clearly that is just outward except for the few characteristics they imbibe. Bianca can be rather exasperating, throwing herself quite deliberately into the path of danger, with what are left of her lives becoming rather precarious. She is daring but also impetuous and not always the most sympathetic, yet one does feel for her. Some way in, one starts to get an inkling of the direction her story is likely to take and it is perhaps the best one. Digby is a young detective determined to fight crime but must face disapproval and bullying because of his background—it hurts yet he takes it well. Even Puddleworth who comes with his own problems wants to take the lead pushing Digby further into the background, yet he manages to take things in his stride well. Flint too is well done—he is honest and upright, seemingly the ideal reporter working on a number of stories with which he is likely to ruffle a lot of feathers, but he isn’t flawless having made his share of mistakes in the past—eagerness, impetuosity and even the search for love causing him to do so. There are also some emotional moments along the way as well.

I loved the ghost segments of this one as well—as we get a look into the lively spirit world right amidst our own—peopled by those who have stayed behind for a reason and who seem to have the same sets of relationships and dynamics, loves and hates, animosities and friendships as their ‘living’ counterparts but who must operate under an entirely different set of limitations. There are drinks and entertainments, work and adventures but also friendship and support that anyone needs—living being or ghost.

I also liked how the author without dwelling on things subtly incorporates plenty of social commentary as well—race/class aspects, power equations and social dynamics—all of it is there. The 1950s atmosphere comes through nicely too.

Interesting and enjoyable—lighthearted and yet not, this was a book I liked very much and am eager to see what adventures subsequent entries (this one’s labelled book 1) will take us on.

4.5 stars rounded off

Murder, ghosts, and a vengeful fiancée? The Nine Lives of Bianca Moon is the purr-fect blend of urban fantasy, detective story, and ghostly fun. Set in the 1950s, in an alternate world run by cats and dogs, the action kicks off with the mysterious murder of journalist Flint Lockford on the streets of Greenwich Village. Junior Detective Morton Digby and his partner Detective J.B. Puddleworth launch their investigation, but must contend with Flint’s feisty fiancée, Bianca Moon, who is determined to take justice into her own paws. A fun, clever little read and if you love cats you will find it doubly enjoyable!

"The Nine Lives of Bianca Moon Morton Digby" by Delas Heras is a whimsical and imaginative tale that combines elements of humorous fantasy, detective story, and ghostly intrigue. Set in an alternate world run by cats and dogs in the 1950s, the novel introduces readers to a unique blend of murder mystery, ghosts, and a vengeful fiancée, creating a narrative that is both quirky and entertaining.

The premise of the story, centered around the mysterious murder of journalist Flint Lockford in Greenwich Village, sets the stage for a feline-driven detective investigation. Junior Detective Morton Digby and his partner Detective J.B. Puddleworth navigate the challenges of solving the case, all while contending with the feisty and determined fiancée, Bianca Moon, who seeks justice with her own paws.

The world-building in this alternate reality is inventive and filled with delightful details, creating a setting where cats and dogs take on human-like roles. The concept of Ghosthall, an abandoned courthouse inhabited by rowdy ghosts, adds a layer of supernatural fun to the narrative. Flint's journey as a ghost, navigating the afterlife and making new spectral friends, brings an additional element of humor to the story.

However, the strength of the premise is somewhat overshadowed by uneven pacing and moments where the narrative feels scattered. The transition between the murder investigation and Flint's ghostly adventures, while entertaining, can be disjointed at times, making it challenging to maintain a seamless flow.

The characters, particularly Bianca Moon and Flint Lockford, are vibrant and full of personality, contributing to the overall charm of the story. The dynamic between the detectives and the vengeful fiancée adds a layer of tension and humor, creating engaging interactions throughout the novel.

In conclusion, "The Nine Lives of Bianca Moon Morton Digby" is a three-star read that offers a delightful blend of fantasy, detective work, and ghostly escapades. While the narrative's pacing may falter at times, the creative world-building and quirky characters make for an entertaining and light-hearted experience. Fans of whimsical mysteries and alternate realities populated by anthropomorphic animals will find this book to be a purr-fectly enjoyable diversion.

I thought this book was really interesting. It was written from an angle I’ve never read before but it was still a good mystery/detective novel. It took me a little longer to get through than normal for me so that’s why I gave it 4 stars instead of 5 but I would happily continue reading the series

Did not like this book. It was not the right fit for me. It was just too weird in my opinion and the wrighting was not good. Thanks to netgalley and the publisher giving me this arc.

*DUPLICATE REVIEW*

An old school detective story with cats and dogs as the characters? Sounds purr-fect!

This really was a howling good time! The animal references were clever, the story was fun, and there was an interesting mystery to whittle away at. When it came to building a narrative around the furries, the author thought things through quite well, capturing all of our beloved pets' idiosyncrasies while amusingly anthropomorphizing them.

Bianca was a terribly frustrating character, given all of the bad choices she made. But she was a cat so it made sense. It’s funny how you can make something work for a feline that would just cause groans and eye rolls for a human character. You just can’t expect great decisions from a cat, especially after she’s lost the love of her life. (Before you argue that cats cannot fall in love, spend some time with one who has been separated from his or her beloved playmate.)

This book needs some time in the spotlight, as I haven’t noticed anyone barking about it on social media. It is well written and serves as a good palate cleanser between darker or heavier reads!

I am immensely grateful to Double Six Books, Members’ Titles, Members’ Audiobooks, and NetGalley for my e-galley and ALC. All opinions are my own.

A moving and utterly thought-provoking work of contemporary literature, This book explores the intricacies of life, love and self-discovery. It is undoubtedly a captivating and reflective book thanks to its engaging characters,
Bianca Moon is going through a turning point in her life and is struggling with past regrets. The Book is beautifully written, drawing readers into Bianca's world and encouraging them to think about their own actions and decisions. This is a must read.

Thank you netgalley for the opportunity.

#theninelivesofbiancamoon, #DelasHeras, #romance, #netgalley

This book was super boring. The third person wasn't helping. I don't know what else to put here besides that. I did like the relationship between Bianca and Flint. It was my favorite part. Also the ending is erupt and just ends. I wanted to know what happened to Roxie. I did skim read all the way to the end. The world was super interesting.

This book is so much fun when Bianca finds out her beloved Flint had a piano fall on him she is beside herself with grief and decides to find out what really happened. Flint was a reporter and she thinks he was on to something in Porten and that’s what got him killed. Just know this Brooke is so much fun and I thought it couldn’t get any better but when Flynn realizes he is a ghost OMG… So hard. I love books where animals act like people and every time I thought of the Scottish detective sitting in the chair with his little feet hanging over not touching the floor it made me giggle. Besides all that though the plot is a good one and it’s so worth reading this is a definite five story and one I highly recommend I only wish I would’ve listen to the audiobook but will definitely buy it in the future when it is released. I received this book from NetGalley and the publisher but I am leaving this review voluntarily please forgive any mistakes as I am blind and dictate my review

Thank you to Netgalley for providing the ARC in exchange for an honest review. This was a big surprise! As soon as I began reading this I was laughing, it offered the same charm and quirkiness as Legends and Lattes for me. The characters were really distinctive and I really appreciated the friendships included in this.
The unique world building for the ghost realm was so fun! It gave me Luigi’s Mansion vibes actually for how fun and cartooney it felt.
Overall, I will happily read more from this series!

The Nine Lives of Bianca Moon is a must-read, fusing feline fun, spectral escapades, and riveting detective work in a unique historical setting. It provides a gripping exploration of revenge, loyalty, and the unbreakable bonds of love beyond life itself.

Thank you for the ARC.

<i> Set in the 1950s, in an alternate world run by cats and dogs, the action kicks off with the mysterious murder of journalist Flint Lockford on the streets of Greenwich Village. Junior Detective Morton Digby and his partner Detective J.B. Puddleworth launch their investigation, but must contend with Flint's feisty fiancée, Bianca Moon, who is determined to take justice into her own paws.
Meanwhile, Flint's ghost arrives at Ghosthall, an abandoned courthouse now home to a band of rowdy ghosts. There he meets new friends and learns the ins and outs of being a spook. When he sets out to find Bianca, he is shocked to learn she has embarked on a reckless quest for revenge. Determined to protect her from her own feline fury, but limited by his ghostly powers, Flint must rely on Junior Detective Morton Digby and his partner to collar the killers before Bianca runs out of lives. </i>

A cozy mystery/ 1950s detective story, but populated by cats, dogs, and ghosts? This was a fun one for sure. So many elements to love, and lots of sly animal puns worked their way in. Purrfection.

Thank you Delas Heras, Double Six Books, and NetGalley for providing this ARC for review consideration. All opinions expressed are my own.

It's the 1950s in Greenwich Village, but not our Greenwich Village, this one is an alternate reality where cats and dogs run the world. Investigative journalist Flint Lockford, an Irish wolfhound, has his whole life in front of him: he has a comfortable life, a scoop on a big story, and he is about to propose to his girlfriend, an Angora cat, Bianca Moon. That is, until a piano is dropped on his head. Now Flint is a ghost and has to navigate a parallel society with rival ghost gangs and the humans who do their bidding. If trying to figure out how to be a ghost isn't enough, Flint must uncover the identity of the dog behind his murder while preventing Bianca from jeopardizing her lives in a quest for revenge.

I typically do not gravitate to stories with anthropomorphic animals, but the synopsis of the book pulled me in! This book had everything I needed: alternate reality, ghosts, whodoneit murder, rookie cops, and a revenge story. Plus, it was a lighthearted read. It reminds me a lot of the movies that were popular in the 1950s, not just with the manner of speaking and the slang, but with the hijinks and shenanigans. In older films, if it could go wrong, it did, and in the most over the top kind of way. Heras did a great job capturing that aspect of media in that time.

While this book is lighthearted, the author also captured the societal hierarchy that was also common in that time period. One of the female dogs encounters misogyny but uses that to her advantage, rising to the ranks as one of the best hit dogs around. The lives of cats within that society are less valuable because cats have more than one life, often ignoring that eventually, cats can get down to their last lives. In this novel, cats and dogs can marry, but it is often looked down upon by certain members of society. Bianca Moon doesn't tell her parents that she is dating a dog because she worries about how they will take the news. This book also highlights the manners and chivalry that can also be found within that time period. The author did a great job balancing both the good and the bad from the time period, bringing light to the issues, but not making it the focal point of the story.

The best part of this story are the characters. The cast of characters were so wonderfully complex and had the most amazing names. We have Flint Lockford the journalist, Bianca Moon a cat with a thirst for revenge, Roxy the alley cat, Detective J.B. Puddleworth and Junior Detective Morton Digby the fumbling detectives on their first murder investigation, and many others. I loved the rival ghost gangs and the personality of each crew. This book had me from the first page.

Thank you NetGalley for a digital copy so that I can provide an honest review for this book.

The Nine Lives of Bianca Moon, Morton Digby #1, by Delas Heras (June 2023) Double Six Books

This novel is a blend of fantasy and murder mysteries featuring cats and dogs. It is set in the summer of 1954 in a magical New York City where cats and dogs are the only inhabitants. The story begins with Flint Lockford, an Irish wolfhound journalist, planning to propose marriage to a Turkish Angora cat, although they don’t plan to have children of their own, they want to adopt puppies and kittens.

Unfortunately, when Flint dies, Detective Morton Digby (a border collie mix) and his partner, Senior Detective J.B. Puddleworth (a Scottish terrier) must prove that Flint’s death was not an accident, but rather a planned murder.

Meanwhile, Flint’s ghost meets new friends and discovers the mysteries of being a spirit.

His fiancée, Bianca Moon (the Turkish Angora cat) is furious upon learning about his death and decides to take matters into her own paws, knowing she still has seven lives left (Thus, the title.) Her impulsive actions either help or complicate the detectives’ investigation as they uncover the suspects’ motives for killing the journalist.

This book is an enjoyable read. Although I am not a fan of stories with anthropomorphic animals, I am impressed with the world created by the author, especially how the cats’ nine lives pan out (which makes me sad because dogs only have one life). As a murder mystery thriller, I found the plot suspenseful and ALMOST guessed the mastermind correctly. Therefore, I am giving this 4 out of 5 stars.

How can you resist the idea of a hard-boiled detective novel where all the participants are cats and dogs?  Plus, when you add in the roaming ghost of the murdered Flint Lockford, I was hooked.  This seriously had everything I love in one novel - mystery, quirky detectives, ghosts, and animals!  

Flint was likable from the start.  Hard working, dedicated, and totally devoted to his soon-to-be fiancée.  To say that I was a bit shocked that he was bumped off so early in the book is an understatement.  Maybe I should have been expecting it, but I was still surprised.  I was happy that he stuck around to try and help solve his own murder.  

Bianca is Flint's girl, and I was both happy and intrigued by the fact he was dating a cat.  Bianca is feisty and independent, as any cat should be.  However, her increasingly reckless behavior as the story progressed gave me a touch of anxiety on her part.  But I could support her drive to find out who had killed her love.  

The mismatched detective duo is a classic combination.  One proper and the other more play it by ear that come together to solve the crime in the end.  Even though they were a bit hapless throughout the story, although not completely so. Is it their fault that the clever kitties Bianca and Roxy were often a step ahead?

The side characters were often the stars of the show, in my opinion.  Especially Roxy, the alley cat, and Professor Chumley, a fellow ghost.  They add a bit of liveliness and sometimes a humorous break in the action.  

While I had a hunch I knew how the story was going to end, the journey to that point was a lot of fun.  The actual bad guy caught me by surprise as well.  I'd have never guessed them either.  If you're a fan of detective novels of the fifties or even just mysteries in general, you might love this book.  It's fun, a bit silly at times, but overall a good mystery that takes a few twists and turns along the way.

A moving and thought-provoking work of contemporary literature, "The Nine Lives of Bianca Moon" by Delas Heras explores the intricacies of life, love, and self-discovery. Heras is an engrossing and reflective book thanks to its engaging characters, emotional depth, and analysis of personal evolution.
Bianca Moon is experiencing a turning point in her life and is struggling with previous regrets, unrealized goals, and the quest for purpose. A series of life-altering experiences Bianca has while on a quest for self-discovery shift her viewpoint and put her ideas of happiness and fulfilment to the test. Heras deftly interweaves the various stages of Bianca's life, examining themes of love, loss, identity, and the human spirit's resiliency.
The ability of Delas Heras to develop relatable, complex characters is one of the novel's most outstanding features. While negotiating the complexities of her relationships and facing her inner problems, Bianca Moon proves to be a compelling protagonist who is imperfect yet tenacious. Family, friends, and love partners give narrative depth and variety while also contributing significantly to Bianca's process of self-discovery.
The reflective and emotional writing style of Heras perfectly captures the complexity of Bianca's experiences and the breadth of her feelings. The tale is exquisitely written, drawing readers into Bianca's world and encouraging them to think about their own actions and decisions. The author's examination of subjects including self-acceptance, personal development, and the quest for happiness adds depth and relatability to the story.
"The Nine Lives of Bianca Moon" explores the complexities of relationships and how they affect our lives. Heras looks at the different types of love and how they influence our identities and decisions. The book inspires readers to explore their personal relationships and the value of self-awareness and authenticity in achieving happiness. The pace of "The Nine Lives of Bianca Moon" can be slow at times, focusing more on the protagonist's personal journey than on exterior story developments, which some readers may find to be off-putting. Any small pace issues are, however, made up for by the emotional depth, likeable characters, and reflective aspect of the story.
The modern fiction book "The Nine Lives of Bianca Moon" is masterfully written and introspective, and it resonates with its examination of personal development and the complexity of life. This novel is an engaging and thought-provoking read because to Delas Heras's adept storytelling, well-drawn characters, and expressive prose. "The Nine Lives of Bianca Moon" is a novel that will have a lasting impression if you're looking for a reflective and passionate voyage of self-discovery.

Set in the 1950’s in a universe where cats, dogs and ghosts are commonly intertwined, reminiscent of old detective movies, “The Nine Lives of Bianca Moon” presents a world that’ll transport you into an astounding story told through several points of view, which narrate the the murder investigation followed up by Bianca Moon, a cat that seeks revenge for the mysterious death of her fiancé, Flint Lockford, who was sorrowfully crushed by a piano.

You won’t be able to stop reading this due to it’s particular setting and the lovable characters, ranging from detectives such as charming Detective Digby, to murderers, like businessdog Tatiana Valova, and even ghosts, which can be found in Ghosthall, all this enveloped in the graceful writing style of Delas Heras. It’s a book worth remembering for young readers, as well as older ones.

I’m grateful with NetGalley, Delas Heras and the publisher for letting me read this before its publication.