Shady Hollow and Cold Clay by Juneau Back
Shady Hollow is the first in a mystery series by Juneau Black, the pen name of authors Jocelyn Cole and Sharon Nagel. Shady Hollow is a quintessential English-style village inhabited by a community of woodland creatures who live peacefully together. The novel’s suspense element is almost nonexistent, but the authors have fun with the cast of characters.
Vera Vixen (fox) is the protagonist, sleuth, and star reporter for the local newspaper. Her best friend, Lenore Lee (raven), owns the local bookstore, Nevermore Books. Lefty (racoon) is a small-time crook, and the cops are all bears. It is best not to overthink the concept. For example, how does Joe (moose) actually serve a cup of coffee at his eponymous café?
The second in the series, Cold Clay, has a bit more plot, but the antics of the furry and feathered characters carry the novel.
Reminiscent of your favorite childhood animal stories and as soothing to read!