Cat-Sitting

Diesel the Maine Coon from the best-selling "Cat in the Stacks" series by Miranda James

Charlie and the rest of the family all seem really excited lately. They keep talking about something called a vacation. I'm not exactly sure what that is, but it seems to involve going somewhere. That's okay with  me. I like riding in the car -- although I don't like sticking my head out the window the way that silly Dante does.

From what I've heard the place we're going is called Europe. I don't think I've heard of it before. I wonder how many days it will take to drive there. Even though I like car rides, I don't want to do it all day long. Maybe it's not that far. As long as Charlie is with me, I don't mind going new places. But frankly, I'd be just as happy staying right here in Athena.

Okay, now I just heard Charlie say something that I don't like. He's talking about "cat-sitting." I've heard that before, and it usually means Charlie leaves me with someone while he goes off and does something without me. I hope this doesn't mean he's going to this Europe place without me.

Well, I guess it does. I'm not going to Europe. Instead, I'm going to visit with Miss An'gel and Miss Dickce Ducote. That's okay with me, I guess. They're very nice ladies, and they always give me lots of attention and treats. That might be better than riding in a car for a day or two. They have a nice big house with lots of places to explore. This might not be so bad after all -- spending a few quiet days with these gracious and attentive Southern ladies.

Things won't be quite as quiet as Diesel thinks when he goes to stay with the Ducote Sisters. On October 7th, everyone will be able to find out just what happens with the debut of the first Southern Ladies Mystery, Bless Her Dead Little Heart.

Summer is here! During June and July, we're having a Cozy Days of Summer Giveaway! There will be a winner every day. You could win a hardcover copy of File M for Murder! Leave a comment before midnight to be entered in that day's drawing, and be sure to include an email address so Miranda can contact you. Hurry! Because at midnight, the next drawing starts.