How to Wash a Cat

I totally enjoyed this book. I don't read a book for the mystery so much. I read a book because I like the locale, the story line, and most of all the characters and this book delivered all for me. I like the cats and its nice that they are a bit far-fetched and not bland or ordinary, as real everyday cats are. I have 4 real cats and its fun to read about kitties that are a bit more evolved. The writer has an interesting premise and the characters are sufficiently interesting and a bit kooky, which makes the book fun and interesting. The mystery held my interest as well. For those who like a book that is fun and yet a bit fanciful and totally enjoyable without frightening drama, this is the book to read. Its like slipping into a nice comfy robe and slippers and relaxing with a good friend.

I read a book or two a day and most do not stay with me. Since I've been an avid reader for so many years the formulaic novels are fun for passing time, but don't make me think. I loved this book because it made me think. When I find a novel that combines ideas with stories I am happy to follow the author and enjoy the world they create. This book, How to Wash a Cat, piqued my curiosity; I had to struggle to figure out who was whom in the plot. It rises above the usual level of writing for cozy mystery novels. It's not direct, it's not an easy read but I found it enjoyable and loved the cats. if only my cats could behave like those in Ms. Hale's book. In fact the entire book is as mysterious as a cat, as curious as a cat and if cats could read, would be loved by cats.

I enjoyed reading this book. It's been unusually cold and wet in Texas, and this is a great book to read while sitting by the fire. If you're like me, you'll finish it in one day. I was impressed that this was the author's first book. I did not mind not knowing the main character's name right from the start, and unlike some reviewers, I assumed she was young. I guess that could just be a matter of point of view. I look forward to seeing the future books from this promising author.

Many of the other reviewers didn't like knowing so little about the main character, but I thought that aspect was reminiscent of Daphne du Maurier's "Rebecca" (although much lighter in tone). Subtlety doesn't seem to be a trait everyone appreciates. In any event, I thought it was a nice change from the more "in your face" sort of adventure novels, and I especially appreciated that the content was also appropriate for my middle school aged children. This is one of my favorite rainy day novels. Not overly dark and serious, but plenty cerebral.

This is a quirky little novel, but it's a good kind of quirk. Rebecca M. Hale blends the line between narrator and author, reality and fiction, in such a subtle way that you only might figure it out by the last line. An intricate lesson in Gold Rush San Francisco that never bores, with cats that are almost as expressive as the people - certainly easier to understand. I had to read the last two chapters twice to pick up all the little details, but it was worth it. Looking forward to her next one.