The Big Cat Nap, by Rita Mae Brown & Sneakie Pie Brown. Unabridged audio.
I have read every one of the novels in this series, and was excited
to read this one, the 20th anniversary novel. The mystery in this novel focuses on the
automobile business. All of the victims worked at the same repair shop. We also
learn of a new insurance company dominating the market, and we take in some local
drag racing. But what are the connections, and who would want the mechanics
dead?
This plot gave “Harry” Hairsteen a chance to show her knowledge
as a gearhead, which has been hinted at in prior novels in the series. This is
a strength of this particular book – there are times in long series where a
character expresses an interest in the 20th book that ties neatly into the
plot, that had never been mentioned in the prior 19 novels, and never gets
mentioned again! But here, Brown picks up on a trait that has been part of
Harry’s character over the life of the series, and builds a very solid mystery
around that trait.
No spoilers, but the mystery makes sense in the context
given, and the drama in discovering the murderer is exciting. The character
moments make sense, although nothing earth-shaking occurs. Over the life of the
series, there have been logical life changes, job changes, and relationship
changes.
Some series lose steam as they march along, but Brown (and
Brown) have been able to maintain a relatively high level over the life of this
series, and I look forward to continue reading books in this series.
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