This is an example of a great cozy mystery series that makes the 'cute' factor work for it, instead of against it. Owen and Hercules are definitely cats with magical gifts: there's no possibility of logical explanations when you have cats that can do what they can do. But the author never takes it further, never tries to expand on the whys and wherefores; that might drive some readers nuts, but I like it and I think it's more authentic.

Aside from the cat magic, the rest of the book is firmly rooted on terra firma. A hardworking MC with two hardworking best friends, a spectacular love interest who is spectacular because of his flaws instead of in spite of them, and an incredibly well plotted mystery with a fairly reasonable ending and no TSTL moments. The writing is solid and always keeps me coming back for more.

I deducted 1/2 star because there were an overly large number of missing articles (especially 'a') throughout the copy and because I think the author started exploring something a bit with Gavin (not a love triangle) and it sort of fizzled mid-way, as though she lost control of it so just dropped it. I'm just as glad she did really, but it did feel a bit unfinished.

Definitely a series I'm sticking with. ( )

Another great entry in the series, the characters are always the strong point in this series but the mystery this time was one of the best, with two non-conspiring criminals it was harder to come up with who committed the crime. So glad I have a few more of these to read before I'm caught up with the series. ( )

Faux Paw is book 7 in the Magical Cats Mystery series. I've enjoyed each book so far! The series is a fun mix of humor, mystery, and feline magic. Kathleen Paulson is a librarian in Mayville Heights, MN. She adopts two unusual cats from a nearby feral colony. Owen and Hercules have strange powers. One can become invisible and the other can walk through solid walls. As a cat owner, I have frequently joked that my felines can materialize out of thin air, especially when I open a can of food. I think the antics and awesomeness of Owen and Hercules are why I enjoy this series so much!

In Faux Paw, the library is sponsoring an art exhibit. Kathleen is being run ragged by the curator who demands installation of a high-tech security system among other requirements. Imagine Kathleen's surprise when she stops by the library late one evening to find the curator dead on the floor and the most famous sketch in the art collection missing! She's soon on the trail of a murderer and thief!

The mystery in this 7th book was engaging with plenty of suspects and suspense, but I don't think I read this series for the mystery. I enjoy the characters and the humor. It's a series that I know I can pick up and just have a relaxing evening of reading. It's like a reunion with old friends. I like the cute supernatural aspects of Kathleen's cats. It isn't overdone....it's just a bit of specialness added to them. :)

Each mystery in the series is its own separate story, so it isn't vital to read them in order. But, the character's relationships and story do develop with each book....so for those who would like to read the entire series, I really recommend starting at the beginning. Kathleen is a great MC -- intelligent, witty and determined. The side characters all come together to add depth to the setting and the plots. It's just an enjoyable cozy series! I highly recommend it for cat lovers and cozy mystery fans!

Sofie Kelly is a pseudonym for YA author Darlene Ryan. She also writes under the name Sofie Ryan (Second Change Cat Mystery series -- another favorite of mine!) There are 8 books in the Magical Cats series, with the 9th book (A Tale of Two Kitties) coming out in September 2017.

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The magical cats are a bit out of sorts when most of Kathleen’s attention is taken up by a murder that occurs in her library. Someone killed the person in charge of an art exhibit and a valuable sketch was missing. Kathleen’s library is then declared a crime scene and is off limits until the police finish with it. Much happens in this cute cozy to make it an interesting and entertaining tale. The enjoyment comes not only from solving the mystery but also from the reading about the lives of the continuing characters. ( )

Faux Paw is the seventh book in the A Magical Cats Mystery series.

Kathleen is excited that the Maryville Heights library is getting a very impressive art exhibit to put on display. In addition, some local artist have some of their works on display, too. She would be even more excited if she didn't have to deal with a very demanding curator, Margo Walsh. In fact, Margo wanted perfection from everyone she came in contact with, but it seems that her thoughts on perfection kept changing. So when Kathleen came back to the library one night, no one was particularly sorry that she was she was found dead. In addition, a particular valuable picture was stolen at the same time. With the most sophisticated electronic equipment available at the library, everyone is thinking that it had to be an inside job.

Since this tragic event took place at “her” library, Kathleen feels compelled to involve herself in the investigation.

Most of the recurring characters are back once again to help with the investigation and also to serve as a sounding board for Kathleen's ideas. Of course, the adorable cats, Hercules and Owen to provide some humorous times, oh yes, and to provide a helpful clue to Kathleen.

Will be watching for the next book in this fun series. ( )