The Cat Who Wasn't a Dog (Mass Market Paperback)

Getting away from a fire is one thing--getting away from murder is something else. The police soon identify the aging actresses and their driver as witnesses--or suspects. Trixie and Evangeline have to return to the scene of the crime, witness the dreadful rehersals for a reprisal of Arsenic and Old Lace, and deal with a number of unlikable and unsavory characters including their hostess's step-mother, the director, the lead man, and a friend of Evangeline who is intent on making big bucks in investment. Trixie finds herself more and more attached to the rescued cat, Cho-Cho-San, but there are plenty of other claimants for Cho-Cho's love. Still, somebody had left the living cat at the taxidermist--with instructions to have it stuffed.

Author Marian Babson does a great job developing her characters--with the blend of competition and mutual support that typifies the thespian professions. Her writing is light and enjoyable with plenty of places that left me with a big smile on my face. Mystery fans will notice that the actual solving of the mystery goes on outside of the book--the primary protagonists aren't really involved in solving the murder(s) or arson. I would have thought that this would detract from my reading pleasure but, to my surprise, it didn't. THE CAT WHO WASN'T A DOG is a fun and enjoyable novel.

Overbearing and obnoxious characters abound, not least Evageline herself. Loved the idea she came up with to cure one actor's lackluster performance, though. There're interesting recipes that are being tested for a cookbook for people on the road, such as how to make a nicely poached egg when you don't have a egg poacher with you. Pity the cookbook is on a tight deadline and the recipe tester is stuck with the suspects. Will it be safe to eat anything in THAT kitchen?

The strength of this book is in its wickedly diverting dialog, to use an old phrase. If you're in the mood to put up your feet and spend a cozy afternoon chortling (while giving thanks that Trixie has to deal with those people instead of you), I recommend this book.