Spunky, a twelve-year-old terrier mutt, is the narrator of this tale of love and crime. She is sassy, funny, classy, and smart. She is loyal and easy-going with a sense of humor, but don't under estimate her or push her too far-she's fierce with her enemies. The other female protagonist, Dr. Hannah Richards, AKA Mom, is trying to build a new life by helping others reclaim theirs. She is a psychologist and eleven years ago, one of her patients held her hostage. The man was safely locked him away, but Dr. Richards was unable to harness her fear. She stopped working. Now, as a widow, she must begin again. She lives with Spunky and four neutered tomcats, named Fearless, Bobby, Fancy Pants, and Sweetie. Together, the animals, try to keep their Mom happy, protect her at all costs, and -whenever they deem necessary - assist in the counseling of her patients. Dr. Richard's clients benefit greatly from the interventions and badgering of this menagerie. The novel deals with some big issues: crippling grief; unconventional friendships; the effect of animal companionship on the human soul; the redemptive influence of love; the power of teamwork; and the value of bravery when the going gets tense. The critters also help Mom in another arena: her love life. The success of their matchmaking relies on a series of animal shenanigans, involving smelly fish, a soapy bathtub, and a stolen steak. The humans do not realize what is happening to them, but we don't hear them complaining. Many strange things happen before it becomes clear that one of the clients is also a dangerous stalker. Spunky smells the connection to Mom's past and is put to the ultimate test when the assailants attack. Later, in a police interrogation room, Spunky and Fearless must again face Mom's adversary. Through unconditional love and forgiveness, these two critters put in motion his redemption. Throughout the story, there is a recurring theme about accessing inner wisdom, thanks to a concept called "the zone." The zone is a state of calm focus, in which Mom and her animals connect in a unique way. Spunky calls it "the gift." The Nose Knows is a suspenseful, heart-warming, exciting, funny, -and romantic tale that proves critters can get away with a lot! The animals know people benefit from being around them, but they are wise enough to see that people need people, too. And if the humans are not smart enough to act on this need, then the animals believe it is their duty is to give them a shove in the right direction. In the end, everyone sees life from a different perspective. THE FIRST BOOK IN THIS NEW, HIGHLY ACCLAIMED SERIES. "The Nose Knows is witty and charming, and it illustrates just how special the bond between animals and humans can be. Spunky and her cat companions are clever and endearing, and the human characters are well developed. Animal and mystery lovers are sure to be entertained, and they will look forward to the next book featuring the delightful and spirited Spunky." Clarion Review - Four Stars! "Have you ever enjoyed a moment of Zen while interacting with your pet or another friendly animal? When is the Zen moment? It is that moment, where each of you feels and shares a special connection, the ultimate peace that touches your very soul Holly L. Lewitas, a nurse and an author knows about this connection and has written an engrossing book, which centers on that very connection and the relationship between humans and animals, titled The Nose Knows. However, this book is not only a story about the spiritual connection that can develop between humans and animals; it is also a great mystery novel that keeps the reader engrossed in the story until the end. In addition, it is also a heartwarming story, which takes the reader on an emotional ride that will sometimes, makes you laugh, cry, cringe, sympathize and cheer. --- Pacific Book Review
About the Author: THE NOSE KNOWS A Spunky Mystery Holly Lewitas grew up in Bay Shore, Long Island in the 1950s, the middle daughter of two World War II veterans. She grew up as American as apple pie and Chevrolet, until she went to college in the 1960s, when, as she puts it, "all the influences came to bear." She graduated with a Bachelor of Nursing degree and went on to become a registered nurse. Her employers repeatedly placed her in management positions, overseeing psychiatric nursing, the treatment of developmental disabilities, and home health care. In the 1980s, Holly and her husband established their own home health agency in Chicago, which they operated for more than a decade. In 1994, they sold the company and retired to Wisconsin, where they lived until she suddenly became a widow in 2001. Holly now lives and writes full-time in Alabama, surrounded by her many rescued animal companions-"critters," as she calls them-several of whom are the stars of the Spunky Murder Mysteries series -The Nose Knows, The Nose Sees All and An Army of Noses. All are narrated in Spunky's unique voice. As is apparent from her fiction, Holly Lewitas knows and loves animals, and understands and writes fluent Terrier.