Nine Lives and Alibis by Cate Conte

Available: August 22, 2023

Rating: 5 cats in costume

I have to start out this review by saying that this is the first book I've read in this series. Normally, I read any cozy series in order because they all have some varying story arcs that are best enjoyed as they happen. It's long been my opinion that a reader can't gain a full appreciation for a cozy without following the characters on their journey. Because I truly believe that, I'm stoked to read the first six books in this series because this book was awesome!

Maddie gets roped into a leadership role in a Halloween festival that's happening on Daybreak Harbor (that's right, this book is set on an island- love!) The headliner is a psychic and son of a local. Some of the local business people who are serving on the committee for this festival are none too happy to have a psychic coming but little do they know just how crazy things are going to get.

This book has so much going for it. I love the seaside setting; the cat café (which we don't actually see much of) is really cool; the family home where Maddie lives with her grandfather, her sister and sister's fiancé, and now her own boyfriend is rowdy and fun; and Maddie has some interesting friends who may or may not be embarking upon a new relationship. There are quite a few characters, each with their own thing going. One would think that might be confusing for someone who's jumping into book seven of a series but I had no trouble keeping the characters straight because they were all well-developed and unique.

I also love books set at Halloween. Though I'm not really one to dress up or decorate I definitely appreciate others who do and this book had some adorable costumed cats going on parade for the holiday. Another thing I appreciate is communities that embrace animals. Maddie takes her cat, JJ, to the local nursing home, the newspaper, etc. and everywhere JJ goes the people love him. They also support the cat café and getting animals adopted into their forever homes. If Daybreak Harbor was a real place I would definitely be planning to visit!

Definitely a series for any cozy lover to check out!

Thank you to the author, the publisher, and NetGalley for providing me with an ARC.