Community Reviews

Rating(4.2 / 5.0, 100 votes)
5 stars
46(46%)
4 stars
30(30%)
3 stars
24(24%)
2 stars
0(0%)
1 stars
0(0%)
100 reviews
July 15,2025
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I had put this on hold a long time ago after it was mentioned on the podcast, What Should I Read Next.

Finally, I managed to get my hands on it, and I have to say that I really enjoyed how quirky and fun it is.

It definitely falls into the “beach read” category, and it was perfect for me after a couple of non-stop weeks.

This first book of the series wasn't especially deep, but it was still an enjoyable, well-paced “cozy mystery.”

I think cat owners will especially get a kick out of this.

For those who care: there is some language and references to sexual acts.

Overall, it was a light and entertaining read that I would recommend to anyone looking for a quick and enjoyable escape.

I'm looking forward to reading the rest of the series to see where the story goes.

I would also be interested in seeing if the author develops the characters and the plot further in the subsequent books.

All in all, it was a great choice for my recent reading list.
July 15,2025
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This was truly a fun book to read.

However, one does have to suspend logic to a certain extent.

For instance, why on earth would two men chase cats that witnessed a murder? It seems rather odd.

Nonetheless, it was highly entertaining to imagine cats that possess the abilities to talk, read, and even figure out how to call someone on the phone.

Or envision being a human who has the power to transform into a cat.

I would absolutely be in favor of that! Lol!

I am definitely looking forward to checking out the next book in this series.

I can't wait to see what other crazy and wonderful adventures await.

It's safe to say that this book has left me with a sense of excitement and anticipation for more.

I'm sure the next installment will be just as enjoyable and full of surprises.

July 15,2025
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This was the very first Joe Grey novel that I had the pleasure of reading.

Let me tell you, it's an absolutely amazing mystery series!

The story immediately grabs your attention and takes you on a thrilling adventure.

The characters are well-developed and so engaging.

Joe Grey himself is a fascinating protagonist with his unique abilities and charming personality.

The mysteries are intricate and full of twists and turns that keep you guessing until the very end.

I found myself completely immersed in the world of Joe Grey and couldn't put the book down.

I highly recommend this series to anyone who loves a good mystery.

Once you start reading, you'll be hooked!

It's truly a must-read for mystery enthusiasts.

I can't wait to explore more of the Joe Grey novels and see what other exciting mysteries await.

July 15,2025
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I didn't expect much from this book before I started it. However, to my surprise, I was hooked right from the start.

It is a good solid mystery/detective story that features talking cats. It might sound weird, but the author clearly knows cats well.

The author has made every aspect of their depiction just the way I imagine a cat would act and feel.

The story is engaging and full of twists and turns that keep you on the edge of your seat.

The characters are well-developed and the dialogue is witty and entertaining.

I highly recommend this book to anyone who loves mystery/detective stories or cats.

I can't wait to read the next one in the series.
July 15,2025
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It was an extremely easy to read and highly entertaining fun book. The content within its pages was engaging and light-hearted, making it a joy to pick up and lose oneself in.


Cats, on the other hand, are truly amazing animals. Their grace, agility, and mysterious nature have fascinated humans for centuries. They come in a variety of breeds, each with its own unique characteristics and charm.


From their soft fur and cute little paws to their independent personalities and ability to purr, cats have a way of winning over our hearts. Whether they are lounging in the sun, chasing a toy, or simply curling up in our laps, they bring a sense of warmth and companionship to our lives.


This book not only provided an enjoyable read but also offered interesting insights into the wonderful world of cats. It was a great combination of entertainment and information, making it a must-read for any cat lover or anyone looking for a light and enjoyable book to pass the time.

July 15,2025
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Cat on the Edge, Book 1: A Joe Grey Mystery by Shirley Rousseau Murphy


In my view, Shirley Rousseau Murphy's "Cat on the Edge", the initial installment of the Joe Grey Mystery Series, transports cat mystery enthusiasts to an entirely new realm!! The outstanding writing immediately captivates the reader and immerses them in the extraordinary tale of a cat named Joe Grey, who discovers that he can increasingly communicate with humans. Just imagine that!! The author's empathetic comprehension of cats and their behaviors truly shines through. As Joe faces a series of challenges, each more severe than the previous one, readers will find themselves right in the thick of the action. Given his newfound abilities, it's only natural that Joe would take on the investigation of numerous serious issues within his community. There is so much more to this story (I'm striving not to reveal any spoilers!!). So, pick it up and enjoy! I'm eagerly anticipating Book 2!! It comes highly recommended!!
July 15,2025
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A Terrific Series Starter

This book truly deserves five gold stars as it is the one that gave birth to a wonderful multi-volume series. It introduces us to Joe Gray, a big and charming gray tabby cat who is "owned" by Clyde Damon. We are also introduced to Dulcie, a multi-colored and beautiful female cat who belongs to a retired lady named Wilma Getz. And then there's Kate, a beautiful cream-colored cat with a fascinating secret. These three cats come together and, quite remarkably, manage to single paw-edly bring down a ring of criminals. This review is carefully crafted not to be a spoiler, and I will leave the actual plot for those lucky enough to pick up and read this utterly engaging book. It's a story that will surely capture the hearts of cat lovers and mystery enthusiasts alike.

July 15,2025
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I truly hope that the second book will be an improvement. I really liked "The Catsworld Portal", but this particular book just irritated me.

The author devotes a whopping 80% of the book to affectionately描绘 what it must be like to be a cat. There are numerous repetitive scenes that detail what cats eat, how they hunt, and how they groom themselves.

Then there is this character who constantly switches back and forth between being a cat and a human. One could almost create a drinking game based on every single instance when she changes form.

Now that the world has been set up, I'm simply hoping that the next book will allocate more time to the actual mystery at hand and less time on extolling the virtues of how great cats are.

I'm eagerly anticipating a more engaging and less cat-obsessed narrative in the next installment.
July 15,2025
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This is not your typical, formulaic cozy mystery. It stands out with its unique charm and engaging storyline. The writing is far from being bad; in fact, it is quite captivating. The author has managed to create a world that draws the reader in and keeps them hooked from the very beginning.

The characters are well-developed and interesting, each with their own quirks and personalities. The plot is full of twists and turns that keep you guessing until the very end. I found myself completely immersed in the story, eagerly turning the pages to see what would happen next.

Given the quality of this first installment, I have no hesitation in continuing with this series. I am excited to see where the author will take the story and how the characters will evolve. If you're looking for a mystery that is both entertaining and well-written, this series is definitely worth checking out.

July 15,2025
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Joe is an extraordinary cat. One fateful day, he witnesses a heinous murder.

In a state of panic, he goes on the run. But then, a remarkable thing happens. He discovers that he can talk.

Realizing the gravity of the situation, Joe knows that he must take matters into his own paws. He has to solve the mystery and get the killer caught before he strikes again.

The story unfolds with Joe using his newfound ability to communicate and his sharp feline instincts to gather clues.

Will he be able to outwit the killer and bring justice to the victim? Read on and find out how it all turns out.
July 15,2025
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Are you capable of not taking yourself too seriously and suspending your disbelief to simply enjoy a light read while munching on a bowl of popcorn, perhaps with one or three cats curled up on your lap? Give it a try. I attempted to explain this book to my husband, and he chuckled and said, "Whatever dear."


Alright, a note to myself: Never attempt to explain anything fictional to that man. This is especially true if the book is fantasy, metaphysical, or about animals. The man doesn't even like Watership Down.


Shirley Murphy appears to have the ability to understand the essence of what it might be like to be a cat and convey it on the page. What would your cat say to you if it could suddenly speak? Mine would probably say, "Why in the HELL did you bring that damned German Shepherd into the house?! HISSSSSSSSSSS!"


Think of it as fluffy reading, similar to Chick Lit. I couldn't put this book down. Cats + Murder Mystery = FUN!

July 15,2025
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The Joe Grey’s mysteries.

From a friend, I received my very first ‘Joe Grey Mystery’, and I will be forever grateful to her. The enchanting books by Shirley Rousseau Murphy have become my absolute favorite Cat Detectives. I simply adore them. They are truly wonderful!

Joe Grey is a handsome and extremely intelligent tomcat. However, he can be incredibly stubborn once he makes up his mind. Trouble has struck the small village of Molena Point where Joe, his mate Dulcie, Kit, and their human companions reside. The humans, who are supposed to handle the cases, seem completely clueless. But Joe Grey has already solved more murders than most ordinary human detectives. And he does this without them ever realizing that it is he and his friends who send the secret messages and crucial evidence to their office. The fascinating thing is that Joe, Dulcie, and Kit not only understand what people say but they can also communicate with them. This, of course, must remain the most closely guarded secret of all secrets…

Oh, the Joe Grey Mysteries are so thrilling! I adore them with all my heart and have completely fallen for Joe, Dulcie, and Kit. They are just like my own cats. 
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