Sleeping Dogs: A brilliant debut cozy-crime novel with a paranormal twist (A Penny Wiseman Murder Mystery Book 1)

This story is more than a cosy mystery with a supernatural twist. Penny Wiseman PI has a gift. She is able to see ghosts. Unfortunately they don't talk to her but feature naturally in this wonderful story of Basset Hound love, seaside drama, a ghost girl needing help, and sisters doing things their way.I wasn't sure what to expect when I started reading but the pace takes you along on a ride to unravel the mysteries within the story and the writing style is right up my seaside pier. Humour used with great effect, characters real and boldly drawn. My favourite was Alice - loved her! Please can we see her again? A spin off series perhaps?If you want a mystery, a crime to be solved, but a read that puts a smile on your face at the same time, then this is for you. Cracking.

This is at once completely different to what’s currently out there, and at the same time beautifully familiar and comfortable. I really enjoyed reading it. The characters are likeable and appealing - you’re invested in all of them and they’re well drawn. The plot is sufficiently complicated to keep the brain ticking over, but also linked enough to make sense and give the reader the ‘Aha!’ moment. I’m really looking forward to reading the next one and finding out more about the crew of the Wiseman Detective Agency.

I do like a good ghost story and this is full of good ghosts ... of the human and animal varieties ... The living are also great. The main protagonist PI Penny Wiseman is a softer boiled Philip Marlowe type, and glamorous Alice sparkles and shines as the mystery unfolds. Well-written prose flows, flashes of comedy making way for moving interludes and action. Put on the kettle and settle down for a fun, furry, spooky puzzle of an adventure.

Definitely not like anything I've read before and although not really aimed at a 57 year old male I nevertheless found this an entertaining way to spend a couple of cold winter days. Unusual plot ,interesting characters ,with plenty of room to develop ,this tale moved speedily and humorously along to reach a madcap satisfying finale. Well done Wendy on this debut.

A fascinating story. First book I’ve read with ghosts dogs and a cat pointing a way to a crime. A great set of characters that kept you turning the pages. A very interesting storyline too. Very pleased to have the chance to read a brilliant book. Can’t wait to read the next book from this author