I promised myself to read more cozy mysteries this year; however, I have not been able to keep up to that promise. Therefore, when the opportunity came for me to read and review The Dog-Eared Diary, I knew that this would be a small step in fulfilling that promise.
The synopsis for the book piqued my curiosity. I was keen to learn about Chrissy, the dog with the extraordinary gift and her mistress Autumn.
This was my first time reading the author’s work and she did not disappoint. Dog-Eared Diary is the first book in the series, but it can be easily read as a standalone. The author provided sufficient information, making it easy to follow the lives of the characters. After reading this installment, I am keen to read the first book to see the start of Autumn and Chrissy’s relationship.
Sibling rivalry, jealousy, greed, secrets, and of course murder were the themes of this cute, short and captivating story. The twist the author threw in during the first half of the story stirred things up and soon Autumn and Chrissy would find themselves in the middle of solving a mystery. In addition, Autumn would learn important information about her lineage. I like that the mystery kept me guessing for most of the story.
With a large suspect pool, figuring out the identity of the murderer(s) was not an easy task.
I enjoyed getting to know the main characters in this series. They were interesting and fun. Autumn suffered a devastating loss, which led to her having PTSD. Chrissy is her emotional support dog who helps her in those moments she would have a panic attack. They made a great team, and when it came to solving mysteries, Chrissy’s gift proved a big help. The secondary characters added to the atmosphere of the story. There was Ray, a detective and Autumn’s love interest and her best friend Stephanie, who was desperate to get a man. They both proved to be a great help to her.
Conclusion/ Recommendation
Overall an enjoyable read and one I would recommend to fans of cozy mysteries.
I have volunteered to share my review and all the opinions are 100% my own.
Also available…Attorney-at-Paw: A Chrissy the Shih Tzu Mystery
Only Chrissy, a cute little Shih Tzu, can unlock this mystery! Autumn Clarke survived the car crash that killed her parents. To help her cope with PTSD, she adopts Chrissy, a Shih Tzu with a remarkable secret. Chrissy is also the only witness to the mysterious death of her pet parent. Autumn vows to find the truth behind his death with the help of Chrissy, the neighbors and an attractive detective. Can Autumn unravel the clues while trying to heal Chrissy’s trauma and overcome her own devastating emotional wounds in the midst of a dangerous murder investigation?
Only Chrissy, a cute little Shih Tzu, can unlock this mystery! Autumn Clarke survived the car crash that killed her parents. To help her cope with PTSD, she adopts Chrissy, a Shih Tzu with a remarkable secret. Chrissy is also the only witness to the mysterious death of her pet parent. Autumn vows to find the truth behind his death with the help of Chrissy, the neighbors and an attractive detective. Can Autumn unravel the clues while trying to heal Chrissy’s trauma and overcome her own devastating emotional wounds in the midst of a dangerous murder investigation?
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About Diane Wing
Diane Wing, M.A. grew up in a household where her vivid imagination could thrive. Crafting short stories and poetry from an early age, writing remained part of her life throughout her 25-year corporate career. Her training in clinical psychology shows up in her characters’ struggles and in her non-fiction books about energetic consciousness, tarot, and happiness. Diane seeks to help the reader find the flame of their own unique path sparked by her stories and insights for personal growth.
Diane is an avid reader, bibliophile, lover of trees and animals, and a lifelong learner. She and her husband are pet parents to a sweet little Shih Tzu.
– Find out more, listen to Wing Academy Radio, and take the Vibrational Quiz at www.DianeWing.com.
Nadene's addiction to reading began at an early age, when a family friend gifted her a copy of Wuthering Heights. From that moment she was never without a book. She will read anything as long as the material is compelling enough to hold her attention. She gained many experiences through the pages of the books she had the opportunity to read. She created this blog to share her love of books with like-minded individuals, hoping that in sharing reviews of the books read, visitors to the blog will discover their next addictive read. When not reading, Nadene enjoys cooking, listening to music, and watching television.
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I don’t think I’ve read a novel featuring an emotional support dog before. It sounds like an interesting mystery story 🙂
I do like a cozy every once in a while. A cozy with a dog is even better. Great review, Nadene!
Glad you enjoyed this book.
This looks good. I really enjoy reading books with animals, particularly service dogs. Another great review! Hugs, RO
Great review this book looks and sounds like an amazing and fantastic book. I am really glad you fully enjoyed reading this book, thank you so much for sharing your awesome post.
So wait I am confused is this book 2? I love cozy mysteries, so this sounds like fun, I like that it stands on its own, but also appreciate reading these in order as you pick up on friendships, town happens etc. Great review!
Yes Kim, it is book 2. I didn’t realise until I started reading it. Thanks.
I have a few cozy mysteries! this one looks cute
Excellent review!
Thank you.
I haven’t read a cozy mystery yet but I intend to at some point. This sounds like a good book.
It is.
oh this sounds really good, thanks Nadene
You are welcome. Debbie. It is good. I enjoyed it.
This looks cute
It looks nice and I’m in a cozy mood these days
Well, you can give this one a chance.
Wow! Makes me want to read this one.
I think you should.
Oh man, I’ve done a fail on a few of my bookish resolutions, too. But, I went where the mood took me so I’m not too disappointed- just a little. LOL
Yay for trying a cozy and enjoying it. I’m curious about Chrissy’s gift now. 🙂
Sophia, I ain’t telling her secret, you will to read it to find out. 🙂