Review of Killer at the Kennel: A Clara Colby Mystery – Book 1
When I first stumbled upon Killer at the Kennel, I was immediately drawn in by the premise: a cozy mystery woven into the fabric of an animal shelter. Being a proud dog mom myself, the idea of a mystery revolving around a kennel touched my heart. This debut novel by author L.A. Brant certainly didn’t disappoint, and it offered a delightful mix of humor, family bonds, and, of course, mystery that kept me turning the pages.
Set against the backdrop of lush Wisconsin farmland, we meet Clara Colby, a widow attempting to reshape her life after inheriting her grandmother’s estate and the Burton Grayson Memorial Animal Shelter. The chaos begins when she uproots her fourteen-year-old daughter from bustling Chicago to a world filled with barking dogs and unforeseen family drama. Enter Clara’s identical twin, CeCe, who adds a layer of glamour and sibling rivalry to an already bustling household. The dynamics between the sisters—one a high-fashion model and the other a grounded, practical mother—are refreshing and relatable, evoking that familiar push and pull of family life.
Brant adeptly explores themes of motherhood, resilience, and the unexpected challenges of running an animal shelter. What struck me most was how Clara’s nurturing nature extended beyond just caring for animals; it reflected her fierce love for her daughter and her desire to protect her family from the unfolding chaos. The stakes heighten dramatically when Clara discovers the body of a dedicated shelter volunteer, adding layers of urgency and tension as her father becomes the prime suspect. As Clara and CeCe set out to uncover the truth, the story cleverly intertwines lighthearted moments with the darker undertones of murder.
Brant’s writing style is warm and engaging, with a smooth pacing that invites readers to immerse themselves fully in Clara’s world. The vivid descriptions allow you to feel the chaos of an overcrowded shelter and the eerie stillness of a crime scene. The dialogue is sharp and witty, providing a much-needed balance to the more somber themes, and I found myself laughing out loud at some of Clara’s inner thoughts.
One gem that stood out for me was Clara’s reflection on running the animal shelter, capturing the notion that caring for others, be they human or animal, can be both rewarding and exhausting. A poignant line from the book that stuck with me was Clara’s lament about how “life never asks for your consent before throwing curveballs,” a reminder that we often must rise to challenges we never anticipated.
Killer at the Kennel isn’t just your ordinary cozy mystery; it dives deep into family relationships, the complexities of new beginnings, and the lengths we go to for those we love. For readers who enjoy a blend of humor, mystery, and a touch of heartwarming family dynamics, this book will surely resonate.
As I closed the last page, I felt both satisfied and eager for Clara’s next adventure. Fans of cozy mysteries and animal lovers alike will find a kindred spirit in Clara Colby. It’s a delightful kick-off to a new series that promises to charm and entertain, and I can’t wait to see where Brant takes us next.