Review - Take the Monkey and Run

I was fortunate to discover this series with the debut novel.  I reviewed the first book in this series, Woof at the Door (click here), the second book A Tiger's Tale (click here), the third book Horse of a Different Killer (click here), and got an author interview (click here), and a guest post (click here.)  Today I am reviewing the fourth in the series.  Let's dive back into the Call of the Wilde mystery series.

Author: Laura Morrigan

Copyright: July 2016 (Berkley) 304 pgs

Series: 4th in Call of the Wilde Mystery series

Sensuality: Mild

Mystery Sub-genre:  Cozy with paranormal elements

Main Characters: Grace Wilde, Animal behaviorist who speaks with animals telepathically

Setting: Modern day, New Orleans

Obtained Through: Publisher for honest review

Grace Wilde is excited to head to New Orleans for her first “real” case as an animal telepath. She intends to help a woman find her missing sister, but when she attempts to communicate with her client’s cat, Coco.  But before her meeting with Anya the sister, Logan warns her that her client isn't who she says she is and to not show them what she can really do.  When Grace tries to see what the cat Coco has to share, she find a monkey involved somehow, but even the monkey is elusive.

Grace was nervous about a job using her special skills then finds she is over her head with hidden agendas.  She is still dealing with relationship dynamics with Kai.  Sergeant Kai Duncan, Grace's boyfriend is present and their relationship slowly advances.  Emma, Grace's sister shows up in New Orleans to join Grace, and she brings along Kai and Hugh as well as Grace's half wolf.  Hugh is a fellow Veterinarian and Emma's new sweetie.  Logan is the dark, mysterious and dangerous killer who calls Grace "Sweetness".  He shows up to warn Grace of the dangers and we find out more about his murky story.  Belinda, the 6 foot 6 inch drag queen psychic is the breakout star - hilarious.  Of course the Mystery Monkey, Cornelius, is a surprise and very memorable.

Post Katrina New Orleans with both its eerie and mesmerizing sides are on display, the warehouse where Mardi Gras floats are stored was utilized for maximum effect.  The plot gets a little involved and the importance of Cornelius the Mystery Monkey isn't evident at first, but soon I started to suspect his role and it definitely was important.  I felt the pacing kept me captive in the story. 

The killer confrontation was exciting and tense stretched over a few scenes of action, well worth the build up.  The wrap-up was short and well done.  Another great addition to the this consistently riveting cozy series.

I thoroughly enjoyed this fourth outing and can't think of a thing to make it better.

 Rating: Near Perfect - Buy two copies: one for you and one for a friend.