Without a Shadow of Doubt
Series: Olivia Penn Mysteries #5
Author: Kathleen Bailey
Genre: Cozy Mystery
Setting: Virginia
Release Date: November 4, 2025, by Rhino Publishing LLC
Pages: 344
Summary:
Find the cat. Crack the case.
The Highland Games have arrived just outside Apple Station, Virginia, bringing bagpipes, kilts, and a tide of tartan-clad tourists to the cozy small town. Advice columnist Olivia Penn is ready for a weekend of fun now that her life has finally settled into a quiet, steady rhythm. But when a local turns up dead in one of the town’s most iconic homes, a cryptic message from a friend draws her into a tangled mystery.
As Olivia investigates, family secrets and surprising motives surface, linking three brooches, an antique cross, and a 17th-century Scottish Bible. Clues connect seven suspects to the crime, and each has something to hide. When her friend can’t be found and the police start asking questions, the mystery hits closer to home and runs deeper than she ever imagined.
After an unlikely witness makes a shocking revelation, Olivia enlists her friends and a heroic search and rescue golden retriever to help her follow the trail before it goes cold. The man she loves is caught in the crosshairs, and to protect him, she’ll have to risk everything. Justice hinges on a missing cat, a chase through the woods, and a stare-down with a mama bear.
Without a Shadow of Doubt is the gripping fifth installment in the award-winning Olivia Penn Mystery Series. This fast-paced, heartwarming cozy mystery features charming characters, small-town intrigue, and a heroine you’ll love to root for. Perfect for fans of amateur sleuths, cozy suspense, and clean, feel-good mysteries with lovable cats and dogs.
Dive into the enchanting world of Apple Station, where a clever sleuth is always on the case. Your next unputdownable cozy mystery awaits! Read today!
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Character Interview with Olivia Penn
How did you and your author meet?
When my author first planned the series, she considered what traits her main character should have. She wanted someone independent and strong, someone who could face challenges head-on and grow from them. I seemed to fit the bill, and before long, I landed on her doorstep.
Why did this writer decide to feature you in a whole series of books?
Good question, because I could’ve done without all the murder and mayhem in my life! My profession probably had a lot to do with it. I’m a former journalist and now a syndicated advice columnist. That work taught me to read between the lines, notice what someone isn’t saying, and practice patience by listening instead of rushing to judgment. Most importantly, I’ve learned that every problem, whether it’s a troubled relationship or a suspicious alibi, comes down to human nature. All of that makes me a decent sleuth, whether I like it or not.
Do you have any friends or family helping you out?
My dad wants to help every time I get tangled in an investigation, but I try to keep him out of it. My good friend Sam, on the other hand, has a Liam Neeson–like “particular set of skills” that come in handy when solving crimes.
Do you have a regular job and investigate on the side or are you a full-time detective?
I’m an advice columnist. I don’t think of myself as a detective at all. I’ve just stumbled into a few murder investigations, more by circumstance than by choice.
What is the funniest thing that happens to you or another character in this story?
I didn’t think it was funny at the time, but about ten months ago the man I’m now dating locked me in a jail cell. It was a huge misunderstanding, but I can laugh about it now.
Have you solved other cases or is this your first one?
I’ve been involved in four other cases.
Do you have a gift or a special talent?
I’m a writer, and I would say that is my talent. I’ve even written a manuscript that I’ve tucked away for another day. But between my column and these mysteries I keep attracting, I haven’t had time to pursue publication yet.
Who is the most important individual in your life?
My dad. We’re very close, and we live together now in my childhood home. I used to live in D.C. and had plans to move to New York for a promotion, but fate had other ideas. So I came back to Apple Station, Virginia, and my dad and I are closer than ever.
What is your ideal vacation?
I’m a country girl, so I’d choose someplace with natural beauty and open spaces. Beach or mountains, I’ll take either over a crowded city any day.
If you could change anything about your life what would it be?
Nothing. There are things I once wished had gone differently, but I’ve learned not to hold on to what was out of my control. I am who I am because of the choices I’ve made and the challenges I’ve faced. I wouldn’t change that.
Olivia Penn Mystery Series
About the Author
Kathleen Bailey is the award-winning author of The Olivia Penn Mystery Series. She writes mysteries with heart and humor that keep to the traditional and cozy sides of crime. Kathleen has degrees in English, psychology, and physical therapy. She previously worked as a pediatric physical therapist for over twenty years with children who have special needs. She now spends her days plotting and sleuthing in Virginia, where she lives with her husband and adorable feline fur baby. She is a member of Sisters in Crime and the James River Writers. Visit online at her website.
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Giveaway
Prize: Prize will be a paperback copy of Without a Shadow of Doubt. Giveaway is for U.S. only.
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Happy Reading!
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Karen, thank you so much for having me and for sharing my new release. I really appreciate the time you put into creating such a beautiful post! 💛📚