Murder Has Nine Lives

August 29, 2016
Fans of sitcom writer Levine’s Jaine Austen series about a L.A.-based freelance writer and her snarky cat, Prozac, will find much to enjoy in this cozy tale of murder in the backstage world of TV commercials. With Prozac set to be the new face for Skinny Kitty feline food, Jaine is introduced to a collection of characters, including talent agent Didi Wallace, an assortment of eccentric cat owners, and a mostly malcontent cast and crew. With excellent timing, reader Pressley gets the most out of Jaine’s self-deprecating narration, during her work as copywriter for Toiletmasters’ innovative self-flushing commodes, her toe-cringing dinner date with the world’s most handsome man, who has a fixation on his teddy bear, and her phone calls from her bizarre parents. But Pressley’s most impressive achievements may be the woozy conversations between Jaine and Prozac, with the latter sounding even more blasé and entitled than Garfield. A Kensington hardcover.

May 2, 2016
In Levine’s enjoyable 14th Jaine Austen mystery (after 2015’s Death by Tiara), the L.A. freelance writer has a chance to supplement her income through a star turn for her cat, Prozac, as the “before” kitty in a Skinny Kitty cat food commercial. Meanwhile, her own hot prospect is an ad campaign for her client Toiletmasters’ new self-flushing toilets. Phil Angelides, her Toiletmasters boss, introduces her to his gorgeous (single) nephew, who’s new in town and interested enough to ask her for a date. What could go wrong? Series fans should know by now that, even if Jaine’s meddling parents aren’t involved this time, someone—or something—will complicate her life. A murder is only the beginning of another wild misadventure with Jaine and Prozac. This outing will keep cozy readers amused and wondering what absurdity will happen next. Agent: Evan Marshall, Evan Marshall Agency.