Skye Denison-Boyd has researched a new treatment methodology to try with her fourth grade boys. Unfortunately, the first counseling group using pet therapy doesn't go quite as Skye had planned; and it's witnessed by Palmer Lynch, the school board member running against her uncle Charlie for the presidency. As if that isn't stressful enough for the very pregnant school psychologist, Skye then finds herself in the middle of another murder investigation.

MURDER OF A CRANKY CATNAPPER is the nineteenth book in the Scumble River Mystery series, but Denise Swanson writes each one so it can stand alone. However, the characters are growing and evolving as their lives are changing and each new book reflects these developments. The Scumble River Mystery series is easily one of my favorites in the genre, and so I would suggest reading each and every one so you'll appreciate the nuances of the story (such as the scenes with the Dooziers).

I love Skye Denison! It's refreshing to see a school psychologist portrayed in such a positive light as Denise Swanson's knowledge of the job shines through clearly (although Scumble River really does need a good school social worker to assist!). Scumble River is a wonderfully quirky town to visit and Skye's perspective keeps me laughing throughout each and every book in the series.

MURDER OF A CRANKY CATNAPPER takes a slightly darker turn than some of the previous books. I like how Denise Swanson continues to work real-world situations into the Scumble River Mystery series as it keeps the series from getting stale. However, it is the inclusion of school politics and budgeting issues school psychologists face that I particularly love as any of us working in these arenas will recognize just how well Denise Swanson nails it.

MURDER OF A CRANKY CATNAPPER is yet another engaging cozy mystery from the very talented Denise Swanson. I'm already looking forward to the next book as Skye's take on parenting is sure to be nothing short of hilarious! If you like quirky characters in your cozy mysteries, then Denise Swanson's Scumble River Mystery series is definitely your cup of tea.