Gail Koger's Shenanigans is a delightful romp through a world where the supernatural and the mundane collide in the most unexpected ways. At its heart, the novel is a comedic mystery that blends elements of romance, fantasy, and crime fiction, creating a unique narrative that is both entertaining and engaging.

The protagonist, Kandi Cain, is a character who immediately captures the reader's attention with her quirky charm and unique abilities. Inheriting her Dr. Doolittle-like skills from her grandmother, Kandi is a psychic pet detective, a profession that is as unusual as it is intriguing. Her ability to communicate with animals adds a whimsical layer to the story, providing both comedic relief and a deeper connection to the animal world. However, Kandi's newfound ability to communicate with the spirit world introduces a more serious and unsettling element to her life, as she grapples with the discomfort of interacting with the deceased.

Kandi's character development is one of the novel's strong points. She is portrayed as a strong, independent woman who is not afraid to take risks, even when they lead her into dangerous situations. Her determination to rescue a Yorkie from a dog fighting ring showcases her bravery and compassion, while her interactions with the spirit world reveal her vulnerability and fear. This balance of strength and vulnerability makes Kandi a relatable and well-rounded character.

Enter Dutch Callaghan, Kandi's neighbor and a Phoenix PD homicide cop. Dutch is the quintessential "bad boy" with a heart of gold, a trope that Koger handles with finesse. His initial portrayal as a "gorgeous dick" adds tension and humor to the story, as Kandi struggles to reconcile her attraction to him with his abrasive personality. As the narrative unfolds, Dutch's character is fleshed out, revealing layers of complexity that make him more than just a stereotypical love interest. His dedication to his job and his underlying sense of justice make him a compelling character in his own right.

The dynamic between Kandi and Dutch is one of the novel's highlights. Their interactions are filled with witty banter and sexual tension, creating a "will-they-won't-they" dynamic that keeps readers invested in their relationship. Koger skillfully balances the romance with the mystery elements, ensuring that neither aspect overshadows the other.

The plot of Shenanigans is fast-paced and filled with twists and turns that keep readers on the edge of their seats. Kandi's mission to rescue the Yorkie leads her into a dangerous world of dog fighting and murder, where she inadvertently disrupts Dutch's undercover operation. This collision of their worlds sets off a chain of events that are both thrilling and humorous. Koger's ability to weave humor into tense situations is commendable, as it provides a light-hearted contrast to the darker themes of crime and danger.

The novel also explores themes of justice, morality, and the supernatural. Kandi's role as a psychic pet detective raises questions about the ethical implications of her abilities, while Dutch's work as a homicide cop highlights the complexities of law enforcement. The supernatural elements add an additional layer of intrigue, as Kandi navigates her new abilities and the challenges they bring.

In terms of writing style, Koger's prose is lively and engaging, with a strong emphasis on dialogue and character interactions. Her use of humor is particularly effective, adding levity to the narrative without detracting from the seriousness of the plot. The pacing is well-executed, with a balance of action, romance, and mystery that keeps the story moving forward.

Comparatively, Shenanigans shares similarities with other works in the paranormal romance and mystery genres, such as Charlaine Harris's Sookie Stackhouse series or Janet Evanovich's Stephanie Plum novels. Like Harris and Evanovich, Koger combines humor, romance, and mystery to create a compelling narrative. However, Koger's unique twist on the psychic detective trope and her focus on animal communication set Shenanigans apart from its contemporaries.

Overall, Shenanigans is a delightful read that will appeal to fans of paranormal romance, mystery, and comedy. Gail Koger has crafted a story that is both entertaining and thought-provoking, with memorable characters and a plot that keeps readers guessing until the very end. Whether you're a fan of supernatural tales or simply looking for a fun and engaging read, Shenanigans is sure to deliver.