Cold Clay by Juneau Black

What happens when you combine cozy mystery vibes with an anthropomorphic woodland setting? You get Juneau Black's Cold Clay, the second installment in the Shady Hollow series. With its delightful mix of quirky characters, charming humor, and an engaging whodunit, this novel is a must-read for fans of cozy mysteries with a fantastical twist.

Thank you Juneau Black, Vintage Books, and PRH Audio for the free audiobook!

This was another adorable and satisfying cozy noir mystery in the Shady Hollow series. I loved how the story blended lighthearted moments with deeper, more poignant themes, like uncovering buried secrets in a tight-knit community. The tongue-in-cheek humor throughout really adds to the charm and makes the book such a joy to read.

One of my favorite aspects was the quirky characters and their relationships. Vera Vixen is a sharp, determined protagonist, and I appreciated how her loyalty to Joe fueled her investigation. The drama between Vera and Orville was a nice subplot—I'm so glad their relationship didn’t end over his dance with that minx! It’s little moments like these that make Shady Hollow feel like a town you want to visit.

The mystery itself was compelling and well-paced, with enough twists and turns to keep me engaged. The discovery of the moose bones added just the right amount of intrigue and suspense without overshadowing the cozy atmosphere of the story.

Cassandra Campbell’s narration elevated the book even further. Her voice perfectly captured the unique personalities of the characters, making the world of Shady Hollow feel even more vibrant and alive.

If you’re a fan of cozy mysteries or just love quirky, anthropomorphic tales, this series is worth diving into. With its charming setting and delightful characters, Cold Clay offers the perfect escape into a whimsical yet suspenseful world.