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Haunted Yarn Shop Mystery #2
Dyeing Wishes
Kath Rutledge’s grandmother left her a charming fiber and fabric shop, a close-knit group of needlework lovers, and a television-addicted ghost in the attic. She may also have inherited the special skills required to untangle a murder.
Always up for trying something new, Kath and her friends from the fiber and needlework group TGIF—Thank Goodness it’s Fiber—are visiting Cloud Hollow Farm for the day to learn the fine art of dyeing. With spring in the air, the friends head out to greet the sheep. But the sheep are more interested in something else—two bodies spread under a tall tree. And one of those bodies is someone they know.
Kath’s friends nudge her to investigate, and no one is more adamant than Geneva, the ghost who loves to play assistant sleuth. But when Kath discovers another murder cut from the same cloth, she’s more determined than ever to hang a roving killer out to dry…
Always up for trying something new, Kath and her friends from the fiber and needlework group TGIF—Thank Goodness it’s Fiber—are visiting Cloud Hollow Farm for the day to learn the fine art of dyeing. With spring in the air, the friends head out to greet the sheep. But the sheep are more interested in something else—two bodies spread under a tall tree. And one of those bodies is someone they know.
Kath’s friends nudge her to investigate, and no one is more adamant than Geneva, the ghost who loves to play assistant sleuth. But when Kath discovers another murder cut from the same cloth, she’s more determined than ever to hang a roving killer out to dry…
292 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published July 2, 2013
207 people are currently reading
1037 people want to read
About the author
Molly MacRae
23 books839 followersMolly MacRae spent twenty years in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains of Upper East Tennessee, where she managed The Book Place, an independent bookstore; may it rest in peace.
Before the lure of books hooked her, she was curator of the history museum in Jonesborough, Tennessee’s oldest town.
MacRae lives with her family in Champaign, Illinois, where she connects children with books at the public library.
Before the lure of books hooked her, she was curator of the history museum in Jonesborough, Tennessee’s oldest town.
MacRae lives with her family in Champaign, Illinois, where she connects children with books at the public library.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 199 reviews
March 18, 2017
Suspence again in Blue Plum!
Kath Rutledge is trying to have a dyeing class at Debbie's farm Cloud Hollow with her TGIF group from her Granny's Weaver's Cat fabric shop. But the lambs are not helping to get the class started. They are all out in the field looking at something that all the ladies can't see.
So Kath and Debbie decide to have a look! What they find is not what they had in mind for a dyeing class! They have stumbled across two bodies. One is the body of a daughter of one of the TGIF ladies.
The book is so well written that the story line keeps everyone glued to the story and keeps the town in the loop of what is happening in the murders.
Of course, Kath has her ghost Geneva help her solve the mystery and that is part of the story that is the most enjoyable because no one else can see or hear Geneva besides Kath.
Kath Rutledge is trying to have a dyeing class at Debbie's farm Cloud Hollow with her TGIF group from her Granny's Weaver's Cat fabric shop. But the lambs are not helping to get the class started. They are all out in the field looking at something that all the ladies can't see.
So Kath and Debbie decide to have a look! What they find is not what they had in mind for a dyeing class! They have stumbled across two bodies. One is the body of a daughter of one of the TGIF ladies.
The book is so well written that the story line keeps everyone glued to the story and keeps the town in the loop of what is happening in the murders.
Of course, Kath has her ghost Geneva help her solve the mystery and that is part of the story that is the most enjoyable because no one else can see or hear Geneva besides Kath.
Read
January 25, 2018These are really good mysteries. I really had no idea who dunnit, for sure, until the resolution. Kath and her TGIF crew are a treat. And the interplays between Kath and Geneva are always a hoot.
July 10, 2013
So, I liked this book. It was a good, entertaining read. But I didn't love it. Or really like it. I really liked the first one.
The characters are great - likeable, unique, sassy in some cases, sweet in others. A wide range of ages in the posse keeps things interesting - I want these people to be my friends. If the author has designs on making Cole the romantic interest in the future, I hope she soon shows another side to him, cuz he's an ass and I was only sorry Kath didn't punch him in the nose again in this book. Joe's an enigma - I wanna know more about him. I wish the ghost was less of a mess - she's really unlikeable and not a sympathetic character because she's just, well, a mess (and incredibly self-centered). She'd be a much more interesting character if the author gave her some depth; some dimensionality. Some Xanax.
The setting is awesome - small town set in the Tennessee hills, and I'd like to move into the Weaver's Cat.
The plot was solid, well done, and not one of the clichéd cozy-mystery plots that authors can buy 5 for a dollar. I truly didn't see the villain or have a hint of the villain until the giveaway clue.
I'm not really sure why this wasn't a four star read for me except that it felt choppy; like it didn't flow as well as it should or as well as the first one. That can be a subjective thing - maybe it would be smoother if I read it again at some point - so I'd recommend this one to anyone who has read the first one. And I'll be eagerly awaiting the third book...
The characters are great - likeable, unique, sassy in some cases, sweet in others. A wide range of ages in the posse keeps things interesting - I want these people to be my friends. If the author has designs on making Cole the romantic interest in the future, I hope she soon shows another side to him, cuz he's an ass and I was only sorry Kath didn't punch him in the nose again in this book. Joe's an enigma - I wanna know more about him. I wish the ghost was less of a mess - she's really unlikeable and not a sympathetic character because she's just, well, a mess (and incredibly self-centered). She'd be a much more interesting character if the author gave her some depth; some dimensionality. Some Xanax.
The setting is awesome - small town set in the Tennessee hills, and I'd like to move into the Weaver's Cat.
The plot was solid, well done, and not one of the clichéd cozy-mystery plots that authors can buy 5 for a dollar. I truly didn't see the villain or have a hint of the villain until the giveaway clue.
I'm not really sure why this wasn't a four star read for me except that it felt choppy; like it didn't flow as well as it should or as well as the first one. That can be a subjective thing - maybe it would be smoother if I read it again at some point - so I'd recommend this one to anyone who has read the first one. And I'll be eagerly awaiting the third book...
September 1, 2021
I kept getting Bonny and Debbie mixed up. Thea and ernestine were also interchangeable. Add in a deputy who alternates between only using surnames or nicknames and I spent most of this mystery name blind. The only thing I know for certain at the end of the book is that it’s a kooky series.
August 9, 2013
I have a zero tolerance policy when it comes to triangles, which is no surprise to anyone reading my reviews. They aren’t clever or interesting and the suggestion of one is enough for me to say no thanks to a burgeoning cozy series. I was wary with the first book in the series, but I loved just about every character. The one character I didn’t like is the same I have no patience for in this entry. I don’t find cleverly named abrasive police officer’s that makes free with misogynistic colloquialisms charming. I don’t believe two characters constantly locked in combative conversations is the breeding ground for romance, but I’m getting ahead of myself.
I almost didn’t review this book because I was afraid the Book 3 teaser might negatively impact my rating, but I’m a big girl. The second entry in the series was just as enjoyable as the first. Kath is growing at a steady and believable pace. She’s a good character and I like her quite a bit. The supporting cast had some new additions in this entry, but I found the newcomers as welcome as the old and look forward to discovering more of their histories and backgrounds as the series progresses. The paranormal aspect is wonderful. I find Geneva and absolute joy and her mysterious past would be enough to delight me. Her banter with Kath is wonderfully written and one of the highlights of the series. There were multiple mysteries and I managed to figure out the solution to one or two, but the big reveal was still a surprise, which is exactly how I like my mysteries. I could do without Cole/Clod Dunbar. He’s abrasive and annoying to his brother Joe’s mysterious and enigmatic, in fact maybe a bit too much of an enigma.
I don’t find Clod’s aggressive banter with Kath even remotely enjoyable. If anything it pulls me out of the story long enough for me to sigh loudly and roll my eyes. It’s difficult to rebound from being painted the ass. Frankly, the less of him the better, which brings me to my increasing trepidation with the series, especially after reading the Book 3 spoiler. I’ll read the third, but if this goes three-sided on me I’ll drop it without hesitation and without looking back. I have to say a triangle is bad, but one that includes two brothers crosses the line from do not want into will not have. There are too many series waiting for me to discover to put up with the convoluted and the annoying. Having made that snap judgment I hope I’m reading the signs all wrong and this will be a series I can enjoy for the long haul.
I almost didn’t review this book because I was afraid the Book 3 teaser might negatively impact my rating, but I’m a big girl. The second entry in the series was just as enjoyable as the first. Kath is growing at a steady and believable pace. She’s a good character and I like her quite a bit. The supporting cast had some new additions in this entry, but I found the newcomers as welcome as the old and look forward to discovering more of their histories and backgrounds as the series progresses. The paranormal aspect is wonderful. I find Geneva and absolute joy and her mysterious past would be enough to delight me. Her banter with Kath is wonderfully written and one of the highlights of the series. There were multiple mysteries and I managed to figure out the solution to one or two, but the big reveal was still a surprise, which is exactly how I like my mysteries. I could do without Cole/Clod Dunbar. He’s abrasive and annoying to his brother Joe’s mysterious and enigmatic, in fact maybe a bit too much of an enigma.
I don’t find Clod’s aggressive banter with Kath even remotely enjoyable. If anything it pulls me out of the story long enough for me to sigh loudly and roll my eyes. It’s difficult to rebound from being painted the ass. Frankly, the less of him the better, which brings me to my increasing trepidation with the series, especially after reading the Book 3 spoiler. I’ll read the third, but if this goes three-sided on me I’ll drop it without hesitation and without looking back. I have to say a triangle is bad, but one that includes two brothers crosses the line from do not want into will not have. There are too many series waiting for me to discover to put up with the convoluted and the annoying. Having made that snap judgment I hope I’m reading the signs all wrong and this will be a series I can enjoy for the long haul.
May 21, 2015
I deemed Molly MacRae a favourite upon her first book! We need paranormal adult literature and heroines over 30. Etherealness shouldn’t be jovial but in the surrounding story, I laughed uproariously at detailed observation of everyday things and intelligent turns of phrase. Mine was the delight that made my fiancé wonder from the living room, what could be so funny reading in bed! I chortled every time I revisited those paragraphs and quoted them to people; including in my review. I was stunned when it dawned on me that this novel, “Dyeing Wishes”, was noticeably less entertaining.
I attribute two reasons: I dislike the ghost, Geneva. Additionally, a witch Grandmother alluded to in the beginning, is not a subject we have returned to yet. It is understandable this ghost has become a standard fixture but seeing one should always continue to bear enchantment. To the extreme from wonderment, she is so irritating that I protest Kath’s inclination to placate her and am baffled by it. It’s nothing to her personally, if Geneva buzzed off for good and unless the bickering note desists, I wish she WOULD be written out. A witch element would bring an alluring atmosphere and I am sure this is to come.
Other than a stereotypical, sour officer who ‘suspects Kath of everything’, I enjoyed the mystery. It is very well layered, involving history we, the audience didn’t know. It allowed us to be led along all the way. The knitting group declaring: “let’s solve this mystery” and especially, seldom doing anything about it, felt unrealistic and forced. However I love that Kath doesn’t blunder alone, like a “danger lurking for a damsel” cliché. Geneva needs to stop protesting an investigation of her past, because THAT would make an enchanting contribution in a manner she has lacked.
I attribute two reasons: I dislike the ghost, Geneva. Additionally, a witch Grandmother alluded to in the beginning, is not a subject we have returned to yet. It is understandable this ghost has become a standard fixture but seeing one should always continue to bear enchantment. To the extreme from wonderment, she is so irritating that I protest Kath’s inclination to placate her and am baffled by it. It’s nothing to her personally, if Geneva buzzed off for good and unless the bickering note desists, I wish she WOULD be written out. A witch element would bring an alluring atmosphere and I am sure this is to come.
Other than a stereotypical, sour officer who ‘suspects Kath of everything’, I enjoyed the mystery. It is very well layered, involving history we, the audience didn’t know. It allowed us to be led along all the way. The knitting group declaring: “let’s solve this mystery” and especially, seldom doing anything about it, felt unrealistic and forced. However I love that Kath doesn’t blunder alone, like a “danger lurking for a damsel” cliché. Geneva needs to stop protesting an investigation of her past, because THAT would make an enchanting contribution in a manner she has lacked.
January 23, 2018
A murder of a young couple in a sheep field leaves a group of fabric and fiber loving friends in a tizzy as they race to solve who committed the awful crime with the aide of Kath and her unlikely companion, Geneva...a ghost!
The story is fun, lighthearted and I couldn’t help but to laugh at Kath and Geneva’s back and fourth conversations. Hysterical! I also loved how Molly highlighted the friendships of the TGIF (thank goodness it’s fiber) group through the solving of the mystery. There were lots of players but it all worked together for a really great story.
This is series but having not read the first one, I followed along just fine without feeling lost. I am interested in reading the first one now, however and continuing the series
Even if you don’t like knitting, fibers or sheep, this book is still fantastic. It’s just the setting and not the main crux. I loved it from beginning to end. I can’t wait to learn more about Kath and Geneva’s next adventure.
The story is fun, lighthearted and I couldn’t help but to laugh at Kath and Geneva’s back and fourth conversations. Hysterical! I also loved how Molly highlighted the friendships of the TGIF (thank goodness it’s fiber) group through the solving of the mystery. There were lots of players but it all worked together for a really great story.
This is series but having not read the first one, I followed along just fine without feeling lost. I am interested in reading the first one now, however and continuing the series
Even if you don’t like knitting, fibers or sheep, this book is still fantastic. It’s just the setting and not the main crux. I loved it from beginning to end. I can’t wait to learn more about Kath and Geneva’s next adventure.
December 13, 2017
This is the second book in the haunted yarn shop series. Kath and her friends go to visit the Cloud Hollow farm to learn how to dye wool. The lambs on the farm are distracted so Kath and Debbie, the owner of the farm go to look at what is bothering the lambs. They discover two bidies under one of the trees. Unfortunately one of the bodies is the daughter of one of Kath friends. Kath's friends encourage her to investigate to help Debbie. So she and her friends along with her friendly ghost, Geneva, search for a killer.
I really liked the first book and was looking forward to continuing this series. However I didn't like this book as much as I had hoped. I felt that the story was a bit scattered and all over the place. And the "gift" that Kath grandmother had left her in the previous book was barely mentioned and I wished it had been. There were parts of the book I liked but there were parts that just couldn't hold my attention. I plan to read the next book to see if it gets any better.
I really liked the first book and was looking forward to continuing this series. However I didn't like this book as much as I had hoped. I felt that the story was a bit scattered and all over the place. And the "gift" that Kath grandmother had left her in the previous book was barely mentioned and I wished it had been. There were parts of the book I liked but there were parts that just couldn't hold my attention. I plan to read the next book to see if it gets any better.
January 1, 2017
book 2 in an enjoyable cozy series.
December 6, 2018
I enjoyed my second visit to the folks in Blue Plum, Tennessee! Kath Rutledge is settling in to her new life as owner of her Granny's "The Weaver's Cat", where almost every kind of fiber art is worked. We are in the beautiful setting of the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains. She is a member of the TGIF (Thank Goodness it's Fiber) group. The Cat is one of the central meeting places in town, even for those who might not be involved with yarn and its various crafts.
Kath and TGIF members are at the ranch of Debbie, one of its members, where she raises Cotswold sheep and has a studio where she dyes fibers. She plans to show the members how she dyes fibers, but the day has not gone as planned. Along with accidentally locking her keys in the studio earlier, they now await her friend's arrival with a duplicate key for just this purpose. The group is watching the sheep, who are usually very friendly and running to meet visitors. The sheep seem to be surrounding something at a slight distance from the fence, so Debbie and Kath head into the pasture to see. Not only were there two bodies, the male seems to be holding the female after a possible murder-suicide. Even more horrible to the women, the young woman, Shannon, is the daughter of Bonny, one of the TGIF members, and the young man has been on the lam for a couple years after being accused of killing a coworker.
A member of the group asks Kath to help find the truth of the murder. Most of the town doesn't like Will due to the murder allegations, even though nothing has been proven. Kath has to learn more about the people, and the people in TGIF who helped Kath with a prior mystery as her "posse" all have contributions to make, especially for their friend Bonny.
I love the eclectic folks in this little town! Each member of TGIF is unique, with their own special talents. The one character who stands out is Geneva, the moaning, lamenting ghost who we met in the first mystery in the series. While she is very bright, she fails to find anything to be happy about. Kath has found one thing that does make her happy, and that is to listen to audio books. She checks them out from the library and tries to coordinate her time to be able to change CD's as Geneva isn't able to pick up or move anything. I hope that one day the mystery of Geneva's life will be unraveled, but in the meantime, she steals the stage regularly. It is also a pleasure to see Kath learn more about Granny's later years and the impact she had in the community. Each character is defined as necessary for their role.
This mystery is much more than what it seems. Its complexity didn't strike me until some of the final resolutions appear. The author displays marvelous wit throughout, and places a high value on the friendship. These are a group of women who are long-time friends and willing to include Kath, a relative newcomer, partly due to her relationship to Granny. They can work together, have disagreements, and their friendship comes out stronger. We also have the mournful ghost, who wants to be a part of the investigation to see what she can contribute from what she learns as an invisible "spy". The solution to the mystery, which baffled this armchair sleuth, brought surprises to me. There are so many strands that make up the full background and truth of this story! The author is a master of multifaceted mysteries in which there is room for humor amidst the grim aspect of murder. I highly recommend Dyeing Wishes, and the rest of the series, for cozy mystery lovers who enjoy beautiful, lyrically described settings, a fun group of people, and a confounding crime.
Kath and TGIF members are at the ranch of Debbie, one of its members, where she raises Cotswold sheep and has a studio where she dyes fibers. She plans to show the members how she dyes fibers, but the day has not gone as planned. Along with accidentally locking her keys in the studio earlier, they now await her friend's arrival with a duplicate key for just this purpose. The group is watching the sheep, who are usually very friendly and running to meet visitors. The sheep seem to be surrounding something at a slight distance from the fence, so Debbie and Kath head into the pasture to see. Not only were there two bodies, the male seems to be holding the female after a possible murder-suicide. Even more horrible to the women, the young woman, Shannon, is the daughter of Bonny, one of the TGIF members, and the young man has been on the lam for a couple years after being accused of killing a coworker.
A member of the group asks Kath to help find the truth of the murder. Most of the town doesn't like Will due to the murder allegations, even though nothing has been proven. Kath has to learn more about the people, and the people in TGIF who helped Kath with a prior mystery as her "posse" all have contributions to make, especially for their friend Bonny.
I love the eclectic folks in this little town! Each member of TGIF is unique, with their own special talents. The one character who stands out is Geneva, the moaning, lamenting ghost who we met in the first mystery in the series. While she is very bright, she fails to find anything to be happy about. Kath has found one thing that does make her happy, and that is to listen to audio books. She checks them out from the library and tries to coordinate her time to be able to change CD's as Geneva isn't able to pick up or move anything. I hope that one day the mystery of Geneva's life will be unraveled, but in the meantime, she steals the stage regularly. It is also a pleasure to see Kath learn more about Granny's later years and the impact she had in the community. Each character is defined as necessary for their role.
This mystery is much more than what it seems. Its complexity didn't strike me until some of the final resolutions appear. The author displays marvelous wit throughout, and places a high value on the friendship. These are a group of women who are long-time friends and willing to include Kath, a relative newcomer, partly due to her relationship to Granny. They can work together, have disagreements, and their friendship comes out stronger. We also have the mournful ghost, who wants to be a part of the investigation to see what she can contribute from what she learns as an invisible "spy". The solution to the mystery, which baffled this armchair sleuth, brought surprises to me. There are so many strands that make up the full background and truth of this story! The author is a master of multifaceted mysteries in which there is room for humor amidst the grim aspect of murder. I highly recommend Dyeing Wishes, and the rest of the series, for cozy mystery lovers who enjoy beautiful, lyrically described settings, a fun group of people, and a confounding crime.
April 27, 2017
In Dyeing Wishes by Molly MacRae, the TGIF (Thank Goodness It's Fiber) club takes a field trip to Cloud Hollow Farm to learn the skills of dying wool. Debbie, the farm's owner, goes out to show all the baby lambs to Kath, who has inherited her grandmother's store, Weaver's Cat, and thus is a new full-time resident of Blue Plum. But when the two women get to the sheep, they find the body of a man cradling a woman, both shot dead and with a gun lying next to the man's body in an apparent murder/suicide. Recognizing the bodies in horror, Debbie identifies the man as Will, a local environmentalist activist who went into hiding in the mountains two years earlier after being accused of murder. But it is the woman whose death brings shock to Debbie, as Shannon is the daughter of Bonnie, one of the members of the TGIF group. Because of Kath's experience helping to solve a previous murder, Debbie begs her to figure out this crime, certain that Will, with whom she had gone to school, would never murder this woman he loved. It doesn't take too long before Kath brings together "The Posse," comprised of the TGIF club and Joe, the one-time house-breaker who seems sweet on Kath. In addition, the group contains Geneva, the ghost Kath had inherited from her grandmother and whom only Kath can see.
Read the rest of this review, more reviews, and other wonderful, geeky articles on FangirlNation
Read the rest of this review, more reviews, and other wonderful, geeky articles on FangirlNation
August 12, 2019
https://openbooksociety.com/article/d...
Dyeing Wishes
A Haunted Yarn Shop Mystery, Book #2
By Molly MacRae
ISBN 9781101614594
Author Website: mollymacrae(.)com
Brought to you by OBS Reviewer Jeanie
Synopsis:
Kath Rutledge’s grandmother left her a charming fiber and fabric shop, a close-knit group of needlework lovers, and a television-addicted ghost in the attic. She may also have inherited the special skills required to untangle a murder.
Always up for trying something new, Kath and her friends from the fiber and needlework group TGIF—Thank Goodness it’s Fiber—are visiting Cloud Hollow Farm for the day to learn the fine art of dyeing. With spring in the air, the friends head out to greet the sheep. But the sheep are more interested in something else—two bodies spread under a tall tree. And one of those bodies is someone they know.
Kath’s friends nudge her to investigate, and no one is more adamant than Geneva, the ghost who loves to play assistant sleuth. But when Kath discovers another murder cut from the same cloth, she’s more determined than ever to hang a roving killer out to dry. ( Goodreads)
Review:
Second in the Haunted Yarn Shop Mystery series, this delightful cozy mystery sees Kath Rutledge getting settled in at her grandmother’s shop and as a member of the TGIF (Thank Goodness It’s Fiber) needle arts group. I very much enjoyed this novel; the characters are well-defined and we get to know each one better. There are breathtaking descriptions of the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains and the lovely, quaint town of Blue Plum, Tennessee, giving human qualities to the natural beauty. Kath has a great sense of humor, as evidenced through her first-person account. And the mystery is challenging – to the police, TGIF, and this reader.
Kath inherited Granny’s beloved fiber arts shop and many years of accumulated books, patterns, and journals. The Weaver’s Cat is a central meeting place in town for people who love to do any kind of work involving yarn, including spinning and weaving, and fabric groups, including quilting.
We open to TGIF members going to member Debbie’s Cloud Hollow Farm, where she raises Cotswold sheep and will teach her technique for dyeing yarn and wool roving. The day isn’t off to a good start. Debbie locked the keys in the studio by mistake and awaits a neighbor bringing over her spare key. When the ladies, including snowbird Bonny, arrive and begin to watch the sheep, Debbie is surprised that the sheep don’t come to see them. They are huddled together in a group near a tree, the usually friendly creatures not tempted to see the guests. After trying to see what was going on through a camera zoom, Debbie and Kath go into the pasture. Debbie is horrified as she knows the couple they find lying on the ground, the man cradling the woman. She has been shot in the chest, he has been shot in the head with a gun by his hand.
The man is Will Embree, who has been on the lam for a couple years since accused of killing former co-worker Terry Widener. The woman is Shannon Goforth, Bonny’s daughter and spokesperson for the paper manufacturer she, Will, and Terry worked for. Torn with grief, Bonny asked Kath to find the truth, like she did when solving a murder after first arriving in Blue Plum. There are mixed feelings around town about Will. Most believe Will was a killer and had stalked and frightened Shannon. They claim Shannon was close to a security guard at the paper plant, Eric Lyle, whose gun was found next to Will.
Speculation is that Will had found Eric and killed him, killed Shannon, then turned the gun on himself. There is a lot of background Kath must learn, especially when the posse, made up of members of TGIF, offer their help. Well, all except one, Joe Dunbar, who is brother to Deputy Cole “Clod” Dunbar. Geneva, the desolate ghost that only Kath and their as-yet unnamed cat can see, is great at undercover listening, since nobody can see her, but sometimes she gets a pout on and doesn’t follow through on her promises.
The characters are a blast! While most have known each other for years, they have welcomed Kath, as Ivy McClellan’s granddaughter, into their family. It is funny to see people walk up on Kath, wondering if she is talking to herself, when she is really talking with Geneva, who brilliantly suggests she keep her cell phone handy and hold it up for others to see if noticed. I enjoy seeing Geneva again, who often moans and wails. Kath speaks one day of how Geneva “followed me out front, like my own personal Great Dismal Fog” (pg. 51). Kath also learned more about Granny through the eyes and memories of John Yarn Berry, a sailor who would have loved to take the lovely widow out on his schooner on one of his long travels. She came to appreciate this friend of Granny’s, including what he shared about his mother’s maiden name and meaning.
The author shares a great sense of humor throughout the novel, even more remarkable when it is least expected. She expresses the feelings of the characters well throughout, whether grief, anger, or the air of spectral desolation. I am very impressed with how many strands there are to the fiber of the deaths, especially since part of the key might lie with whether Will is guilty of the murder two years ago. This is also a novel of friendship, the friendship of the women to work together to try to find who really killed Shannon and where Eric Lyle is. It is about seeing the friendship of women who are willing to apologize to each other as well as laugh together. Those friends who are willing to face down the traveling photojournalists to find what they are really in town for. The ending brought a few surprises! While I was busy following red herrings, the truth came out, and I was probably half right…but half wrong. I highly recommend this to those who enjoy reading about fiber art business, and well-written cozy mysteries with a served with humor, grit, grief, and a slightly neurotic, despondent ghost.
Dyeing Wishes
A Haunted Yarn Shop Mystery, Book #2
By Molly MacRae
ISBN 9781101614594
Author Website: mollymacrae(.)com
Brought to you by OBS Reviewer Jeanie
Synopsis:
Kath Rutledge’s grandmother left her a charming fiber and fabric shop, a close-knit group of needlework lovers, and a television-addicted ghost in the attic. She may also have inherited the special skills required to untangle a murder.
Always up for trying something new, Kath and her friends from the fiber and needlework group TGIF—Thank Goodness it’s Fiber—are visiting Cloud Hollow Farm for the day to learn the fine art of dyeing. With spring in the air, the friends head out to greet the sheep. But the sheep are more interested in something else—two bodies spread under a tall tree. And one of those bodies is someone they know.
Kath’s friends nudge her to investigate, and no one is more adamant than Geneva, the ghost who loves to play assistant sleuth. But when Kath discovers another murder cut from the same cloth, she’s more determined than ever to hang a roving killer out to dry. ( Goodreads)
Review:
Second in the Haunted Yarn Shop Mystery series, this delightful cozy mystery sees Kath Rutledge getting settled in at her grandmother’s shop and as a member of the TGIF (Thank Goodness It’s Fiber) needle arts group. I very much enjoyed this novel; the characters are well-defined and we get to know each one better. There are breathtaking descriptions of the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains and the lovely, quaint town of Blue Plum, Tennessee, giving human qualities to the natural beauty. Kath has a great sense of humor, as evidenced through her first-person account. And the mystery is challenging – to the police, TGIF, and this reader.
Kath inherited Granny’s beloved fiber arts shop and many years of accumulated books, patterns, and journals. The Weaver’s Cat is a central meeting place in town for people who love to do any kind of work involving yarn, including spinning and weaving, and fabric groups, including quilting.
We open to TGIF members going to member Debbie’s Cloud Hollow Farm, where she raises Cotswold sheep and will teach her technique for dyeing yarn and wool roving. The day isn’t off to a good start. Debbie locked the keys in the studio by mistake and awaits a neighbor bringing over her spare key. When the ladies, including snowbird Bonny, arrive and begin to watch the sheep, Debbie is surprised that the sheep don’t come to see them. They are huddled together in a group near a tree, the usually friendly creatures not tempted to see the guests. After trying to see what was going on through a camera zoom, Debbie and Kath go into the pasture. Debbie is horrified as she knows the couple they find lying on the ground, the man cradling the woman. She has been shot in the chest, he has been shot in the head with a gun by his hand.
The man is Will Embree, who has been on the lam for a couple years since accused of killing former co-worker Terry Widener. The woman is Shannon Goforth, Bonny’s daughter and spokesperson for the paper manufacturer she, Will, and Terry worked for. Torn with grief, Bonny asked Kath to find the truth, like she did when solving a murder after first arriving in Blue Plum. There are mixed feelings around town about Will. Most believe Will was a killer and had stalked and frightened Shannon. They claim Shannon was close to a security guard at the paper plant, Eric Lyle, whose gun was found next to Will.
Speculation is that Will had found Eric and killed him, killed Shannon, then turned the gun on himself. There is a lot of background Kath must learn, especially when the posse, made up of members of TGIF, offer their help. Well, all except one, Joe Dunbar, who is brother to Deputy Cole “Clod” Dunbar. Geneva, the desolate ghost that only Kath and their as-yet unnamed cat can see, is great at undercover listening, since nobody can see her, but sometimes she gets a pout on and doesn’t follow through on her promises.
The characters are a blast! While most have known each other for years, they have welcomed Kath, as Ivy McClellan’s granddaughter, into their family. It is funny to see people walk up on Kath, wondering if she is talking to herself, when she is really talking with Geneva, who brilliantly suggests she keep her cell phone handy and hold it up for others to see if noticed. I enjoy seeing Geneva again, who often moans and wails. Kath speaks one day of how Geneva “followed me out front, like my own personal Great Dismal Fog” (pg. 51). Kath also learned more about Granny through the eyes and memories of John Yarn Berry, a sailor who would have loved to take the lovely widow out on his schooner on one of his long travels. She came to appreciate this friend of Granny’s, including what he shared about his mother’s maiden name and meaning.
The author shares a great sense of humor throughout the novel, even more remarkable when it is least expected. She expresses the feelings of the characters well throughout, whether grief, anger, or the air of spectral desolation. I am very impressed with how many strands there are to the fiber of the deaths, especially since part of the key might lie with whether Will is guilty of the murder two years ago. This is also a novel of friendship, the friendship of the women to work together to try to find who really killed Shannon and where Eric Lyle is. It is about seeing the friendship of women who are willing to apologize to each other as well as laugh together. Those friends who are willing to face down the traveling photojournalists to find what they are really in town for. The ending brought a few surprises! While I was busy following red herrings, the truth came out, and I was probably half right…but half wrong. I highly recommend this to those who enjoy reading about fiber art business, and well-written cozy mysteries with a served with humor, grit, grief, and a slightly neurotic, despondent ghost.
February 23, 2017
Second in the series and I was not disappointed. Again, another cleverly written mystery. We learn more about the town and its residents and while the mystery is solved the reader is left wanting to know more about the characters and their own personal mysteries. On to number three!
December 11, 2020
This was such an enjoyable read. I loved the characters and the banter between Geneva and Kath such fun pleasure reading! I’m starting to LOVE cozy mysteries! Definitely want to read more from this author 💖
December 24, 2022
These books are so dumb but so satisfying, perfect Christmas break twaddle to pick up and read a few pages between chores.
December 11, 2013
Kath Rutledge is settling into life in Blue Plum, operating the yarn shop her grandmother left her, and dealing with a ghost-in-residence in the way of Geneva. On a visit to Cloud Hollow Farm, Kath and her friends expect to learn more about dyeing yarn but instead they discover what looks like a murder suicide. The victim is Bonnie's daughter and a man who ran off years ago. Bonnie is devastated and looks to Kath to try to uncover the truth.
Being a lifelong knitter and crocheter I really enjoyed Molly Macrae's first novel, Last Wool and Testament. It called out to love of all different types of yarns and crafts. For the second novel in this series, I chose to listen on audiobook and see if my love of this series carried over on audio. I'm glad to report it did.
The second book is even better than the first. The reason why? Well apart from a great mystery that fills the reader into a bit of history of the town, with Will Embry having run off years ago accused of a crime, it also lets us into more of the close friendship amongst the TGIF (Thank Goodness It's Fiber) group. But the main reason is the funny, flighty ghost-in-residence, Geneva. I absolutely adore Geneva and her growing friendship with Kath.
In Dyeing Wishes we do get a few more details as to Geneva's past, but not enough that Kath is able to figure out why Geneva is hanging around. For my own selfish reasons I hope Geneva stays around for a long time because I find her absolutely delightful. I never know what she's going to say next and she's a hoot a minute!
Emily Durante is fast becoming one of my favorite cozy mystery narrators. I loved the voices she used for the characters of Blue Plum, especially the Spivey twins - she got those just perfect. She has a great pacing and it felt like I was right there alongside Kath trying to solve the mystery.
Dyeing Wishes was a great read and I can't wait for the third book in this series to be released next week.
Being a lifelong knitter and crocheter I really enjoyed Molly Macrae's first novel, Last Wool and Testament. It called out to love of all different types of yarns and crafts. For the second novel in this series, I chose to listen on audiobook and see if my love of this series carried over on audio. I'm glad to report it did.
The second book is even better than the first. The reason why? Well apart from a great mystery that fills the reader into a bit of history of the town, with Will Embry having run off years ago accused of a crime, it also lets us into more of the close friendship amongst the TGIF (Thank Goodness It's Fiber) group. But the main reason is the funny, flighty ghost-in-residence, Geneva. I absolutely adore Geneva and her growing friendship with Kath.
In Dyeing Wishes we do get a few more details as to Geneva's past, but not enough that Kath is able to figure out why Geneva is hanging around. For my own selfish reasons I hope Geneva stays around for a long time because I find her absolutely delightful. I never know what she's going to say next and she's a hoot a minute!
Emily Durante is fast becoming one of my favorite cozy mystery narrators. I loved the voices she used for the characters of Blue Plum, especially the Spivey twins - she got those just perfect. She has a great pacing and it felt like I was right there alongside Kath trying to solve the mystery.
Dyeing Wishes was a great read and I can't wait for the third book in this series to be released next week.
October 26, 2015
I love Molly MacRae's Haunted Yarn Shop mysteries! When my reading has hit a too serious impasse, I love to turn to books in which I must suspend my disbelief, and this series is great for that. When Kath Rutledge's grandmother died and left her the fiber and fabric shop, Kath had no idea that she possessed any unusual powers. But when her grandmother's final letter gave her some clues, and when she started having strange emotions when touching certain fabric, and when Geneva, the ghost, showed up, Kath started to become a believer. In this second instalment of the series, Kath and her "posse," the ladies and men who make up her fiber arts group, discover a pair of bodies in an apparent murder/suicide, she is asked to investigate. Running into the bumbling sheriff, as well as his hunky brother complicates the issue as Kath and her cohorts try to untangle the strange and sad reality of the deaths.
One of the best facets of DYEING WISHES is the involvement of Geneva the ghost. Kath constantly finds herself talking to someone that nobody else can see or hear. And there are lots of other quirky characters and situations. And her cat (maybe her familiar?) is finally given a name! A delightful read!
One of the best facets of DYEING WISHES is the involvement of Geneva the ghost. Kath constantly finds herself talking to someone that nobody else can see or hear. And there are lots of other quirky characters and situations. And her cat (maybe her familiar?) is finally given a name! A delightful read!
September 20, 2015
I am sure it is just me but unfortunately this series just doesn't grab me. Dying Wishes is the second book I read (I also had read Last Wool and Testament)and it left me feeling unsatisfied.
There are a number of small things that bother me. I will just mention the two that were the most often in my mind as I was reading. First the fact that Kath kept taking off work to sleuth when she is really worried about money. But what bothers me the most is, even though I love reading about ghosts, Geneva really irritates me. I do not just get a little exasperated--she annoys the heck out me...
This is, of course, just a personal opinion.
2.5 stars
There are a number of small things that bother me. I will just mention the two that were the most often in my mind as I was reading. First the fact that Kath kept taking off work to sleuth when she is really worried about money. But what bothers me the most is, even though I love reading about ghosts, Geneva really irritates me. I do not just get a little exasperated--she annoys the heck out me...
This is, of course, just a personal opinion.
2.5 stars
September 19, 2021
My original rating was 3 stars, but after a second reading, I'm bumping it up to 4 stars. Once again, I didn't remember a lot of details from the first reading. I think I read so many cozies that they tend to blur together after awhile. The one thing I'm finding on a second read through is that Geneva is beyond annoying!
I'm also disappointed that the author doesn't explain how Kath got ownership of her grandmother's house. Just because the guy who blackmailed her grandmother into signing it over to him died, would the house automatically go to her? I would think there might have been a lengthy probate fight. I'm glad she got it back, but I'd like to have known how that was accomplished.
I'm also disappointed that the author doesn't explain how Kath got ownership of her grandmother's house. Just because the guy who blackmailed her grandmother into signing it over to him died, would the house automatically go to her? I would think there might have been a lengthy probate fight. I'm glad she got it back, but I'd like to have known how that was accomplished.
October 16, 2013
Good, solid 2nd outing. I liked the storyline and I was guessing who the murderer was to the end. I love dialogue in this book, and the fact all of the characters are intelligent and talk like normal people would. Even the ghost :) My only complaint, is that I think it's time for Kath to stop calling Coleridge "Clod". She is 39 y/o, intelligent, and a professional. The name calling of another character is a little childish. Other than that, this is a really good book.
September 5, 2016
Enjoyable cozy mystery. I loved the small-town feel, and actually how...ordinary the main character seems. She's a woman who is finding that, although her life took a turn for something different, those changes aren't necessarily bad, and she's finding that she likes her new home and friends. The mystery-solving is a little cheesy, as is the dialog among the women, but it's written in an intentional way, which is reminiscent of sitcoms that made me smile.
April 30, 2019
I've never been big on reading paranormal stuff, but in this series the ghost is the star as far as I'm concerned. She is a delightfully hilarious sidekick to the amateur sleuth and new yarn shop owner Kath. Aunt Dimity move over when Geneva is in the room!
February 10, 2021
Another great book by Ms. Mac Rae
November 11, 2018
DYEING WISHES by Molly MacRae is the second book in the A Haunted Yarn Shop Mystery series.
The TGIF (Thank Goodness It’s Fiber) club shows up at Debbie Keith’s farm, the Cloud Hallow, to see her Cotswold sheep and to learn about dyeing their wool only to find Will Embree and Shannon Goforth dead in the field before the class even starts. To complicate things, Shannon is the daughter of Bonny, one of the club members. The big questions is – was it the murder/suicide that it first appears or a double murder? Kath Rutledge is asked by a few to get to the bottom of their deaths since she seems to have inherited her Grandmothers “talents” and has had success doing so in the past.
Upon her death, Kath’s grandmother left her the Weaver’s Cat , a fiber and fabric shop. Kath moved to Blue Plum, Tennessee to run the Cat to learn she seems to have also inherited a ghost – Geneva. Geneva lives in the attic of the Weaver’s Cat and only Kath can see and hear her. Geneva is a diehard fan of the old TV shows. She also considers herself Kath’s assistant sleuth. Although at times she can get on Kath’s last nerve, Kath finds that she’s grown quite attached to her as well.
Kath enlists the help of the TGIF to run down clues and to do research in order to try to figure out who murdered this couple that were in love. Sort of a divide and conquer thing. The members are varied in occupation, skill and age. There’s Thea the librarian, Ernestine who is a spry 80ish lady, Mel who owns Melody Gresham Café, and Ardis Buchanan who runs the Cat to name just a few. All determined to put their heads together and solve the crime feeling that Deputy Cole Dunbar will never get it figured out right by himself. Kath’s had dealings with Cole, Clod as she calls him privately to herself, before. Yep, she feels he needs her help, but she is willing to keep him informed of any facts they may come across.
Now, if she can stay off the radar from the Spivey’s – Shirley, Mercy and Angela, and figure out what the real story is behind Sylvia Furches and Pen Ledford with their sneaking around, maybe they can come up with the truth and who the murderer is.
There is mystery, intrigue and murder afoot for sure. Along the way there is a hint of romance. All of it will have you turning the pages, learning to love the characters in Blue Plum, wishing you were a member of the TGIF, second guessing yourself along the way and surprised in the end. There is even a pattern and recipes in the back of the book that connect with the storyline.
DYEING WISH can definitely be read as a standalone book. I, for one, will be going back to read book number one after having read this one. I hope to have the opportunity to read more adventures with Kath, Geneva and the TGIF and maybe a bit more of a romantic interest for Kath. I highly recommend this book to anyone that love a cozy mystery that fulfills while leaving you wanting more.
The TGIF (Thank Goodness It’s Fiber) club shows up at Debbie Keith’s farm, the Cloud Hallow, to see her Cotswold sheep and to learn about dyeing their wool only to find Will Embree and Shannon Goforth dead in the field before the class even starts. To complicate things, Shannon is the daughter of Bonny, one of the club members. The big questions is – was it the murder/suicide that it first appears or a double murder? Kath Rutledge is asked by a few to get to the bottom of their deaths since she seems to have inherited her Grandmothers “talents” and has had success doing so in the past.
Upon her death, Kath’s grandmother left her the Weaver’s Cat , a fiber and fabric shop. Kath moved to Blue Plum, Tennessee to run the Cat to learn she seems to have also inherited a ghost – Geneva. Geneva lives in the attic of the Weaver’s Cat and only Kath can see and hear her. Geneva is a diehard fan of the old TV shows. She also considers herself Kath’s assistant sleuth. Although at times she can get on Kath’s last nerve, Kath finds that she’s grown quite attached to her as well.
Kath enlists the help of the TGIF to run down clues and to do research in order to try to figure out who murdered this couple that were in love. Sort of a divide and conquer thing. The members are varied in occupation, skill and age. There’s Thea the librarian, Ernestine who is a spry 80ish lady, Mel who owns Melody Gresham Café, and Ardis Buchanan who runs the Cat to name just a few. All determined to put their heads together and solve the crime feeling that Deputy Cole Dunbar will never get it figured out right by himself. Kath’s had dealings with Cole, Clod as she calls him privately to herself, before. Yep, she feels he needs her help, but she is willing to keep him informed of any facts they may come across.
Now, if she can stay off the radar from the Spivey’s – Shirley, Mercy and Angela, and figure out what the real story is behind Sylvia Furches and Pen Ledford with their sneaking around, maybe they can come up with the truth and who the murderer is.
There is mystery, intrigue and murder afoot for sure. Along the way there is a hint of romance. All of it will have you turning the pages, learning to love the characters in Blue Plum, wishing you were a member of the TGIF, second guessing yourself along the way and surprised in the end. There is even a pattern and recipes in the back of the book that connect with the storyline.
DYEING WISH can definitely be read as a standalone book. I, for one, will be going back to read book number one after having read this one. I hope to have the opportunity to read more adventures with Kath, Geneva and the TGIF and maybe a bit more of a romantic interest for Kath. I highly recommend this book to anyone that love a cozy mystery that fulfills while leaving you wanting more.
September 2, 2019
After reading the first installment in this series, Last Wool and Testament, I knew that the Haunted Yarn Shop Mysteries would be a great series to pursue and enjoy. I wasn’t wrong. This worthy sequel has all of the wonderful characters, the fun plot twists, the crisp dialog, and a tasty bit of mystery that will keep you properly guessing till The Final Reveal. (Or, since we’re talking about yarns, The Final Ravel? Unravel? Enough jokes, let’s get on with the review!)
No spoilers here; if you’ve read the first book, you already know, and if you haven’t, nothing’s here that will ruin either book for you. (Also, shame on you — go get both books and read them. Now. We’ll wait.) After inheriting her grandmother’s yarn shop in Blue Plum, Tennessee, Kath Rutledge discovered that she’s also inherited a ghost named Geneva, who fancies herself a great assistant detective after watching “all those cop shows” on TV (what else do you do, when you’re dead?). She also inherited TGIF — Thank Goodness It’s Fiber — a group of talented knitters who also fancies themselves to be Kath’s “posse” of detectives after helping her solve the murder that is central to the first book. And doggone if there ain’t another couple of dead bodies, found under a tall tree in a sheep field, whose murder wants investigating… over Deputy Cole Dunbar’s dead body.
There is a lovely tension between Kath and “Clod” (as she calls him, to herself) which remains happily unresolved in this book. Antagonists should be antagonistic, and it’s easy to find Deputy Clod as unlikable as Kath finds him. Interestingly, Clod’s brother Joe is shaping up to be not only more likeable but possibly “interesting,” as in a romantic interest. This, too, is unresolved, and it makes me eager to get to the third book, Spinning in Her Grave, not to mention getting to the fourth, fifth, and sixth in this series (this latest, Crewel and Unusual, was just released in 2019). I have confidence that Ms. MacRae will not disappoint.
A few final comments. Once again, I find myself reflecting (quite positively) that if you like Janet Evanovich’s Stephanie Plum, you’ll love this series. Kath once again demonstrates that she is able to crack wise with the best of ‘em, and her friends aren’t far behind. I’ve seen some criticism claiming that Kath’s ability to be distracted is MacRae’s way of keeping her, and the reader, from important facts. The rest of us will say that, if you can lose the clues that easily, you’re not paying attention. Further, the sheer joy of letting yourself be equally distracted as Kath is part of the fun of reading a cozy as well-written as this one. Quit yer gripin’ and enjoy!
No spoilers here; if you’ve read the first book, you already know, and if you haven’t, nothing’s here that will ruin either book for you. (Also, shame on you — go get both books and read them. Now. We’ll wait.) After inheriting her grandmother’s yarn shop in Blue Plum, Tennessee, Kath Rutledge discovered that she’s also inherited a ghost named Geneva, who fancies herself a great assistant detective after watching “all those cop shows” on TV (what else do you do, when you’re dead?). She also inherited TGIF — Thank Goodness It’s Fiber — a group of talented knitters who also fancies themselves to be Kath’s “posse” of detectives after helping her solve the murder that is central to the first book. And doggone if there ain’t another couple of dead bodies, found under a tall tree in a sheep field, whose murder wants investigating… over Deputy Cole Dunbar’s dead body.
There is a lovely tension between Kath and “Clod” (as she calls him, to herself) which remains happily unresolved in this book. Antagonists should be antagonistic, and it’s easy to find Deputy Clod as unlikable as Kath finds him. Interestingly, Clod’s brother Joe is shaping up to be not only more likeable but possibly “interesting,” as in a romantic interest. This, too, is unresolved, and it makes me eager to get to the third book, Spinning in Her Grave, not to mention getting to the fourth, fifth, and sixth in this series (this latest, Crewel and Unusual, was just released in 2019). I have confidence that Ms. MacRae will not disappoint.
A few final comments. Once again, I find myself reflecting (quite positively) that if you like Janet Evanovich’s Stephanie Plum, you’ll love this series. Kath once again demonstrates that she is able to crack wise with the best of ‘em, and her friends aren’t far behind. I’ve seen some criticism claiming that Kath’s ability to be distracted is MacRae’s way of keeping her, and the reader, from important facts. The rest of us will say that, if you can lose the clues that easily, you’re not paying attention. Further, the sheer joy of letting yourself be equally distracted as Kath is part of the fun of reading a cozy as well-written as this one. Quit yer gripin’ and enjoy!
October 26, 2016
4 Star review for Dyeing Wishes. This is the second book in the A Haunted Yarn Shop Mystery. The story continues on from where it left off in the first book. Kath Rutledge grandmother Ivy, left her her little knitting shop, and all of Ivy’s friends have become Kath’s new friends. Kath and her TGIF (Thank Goodness It’s Fiber) knitters club go and visit their friend Debbie’s farm, where she has just had some baby lambs born, but they are also there to learn how to dye the wool. While they are out looking at the lambs, Kath can’t help but notice there are a lot of sheep huddled around one spot. When Kath takes a closure look, she discovers two dead bodies on Debbie’s land, and Debbie knows them.
Kath has every intention to leave the investigating to the police, namely Deputy Clod Dunbar, who still doesn’t seem nice and is more irritated by Kath and her “posse”, namely the members of TGIF, who encourage Kath to investigate so they can help their friend Debbie. When Deputy Clod gets under Kath’s skin, she gather’s her posse and start investigating on their own, with what they know. With the help of Kath’s ghost friend Geneva, who lives with Kath and will appear and talk to her at the most incontinent times, mainly when Kath is talking to another human.
Most of the characters are believable, but Geneva at times seems to be a little whinny, and almost childlike. Although the author has never said how old she actually is, one is led to believe that she is an adult, and very, very naive. The play between all the characters are starting to develop and you can almost see where the author is taking them. There still room for them all to develop more. I didn’t figure out who could of done the murder until I was almost two-thirds of the way done, but I did figure it out.
In the first book, the author tells you that the grandmother was a witch and that Kath was one also, but the author has elaborated on this any mean. It is mentioned one time in this installment and then nothing more. I don’t know if it will ever be fully explained or if the “Haunted” is going to be Geneva. I’ll have to continue on with the series to find out.
Kath has every intention to leave the investigating to the police, namely Deputy Clod Dunbar, who still doesn’t seem nice and is more irritated by Kath and her “posse”, namely the members of TGIF, who encourage Kath to investigate so they can help their friend Debbie. When Deputy Clod gets under Kath’s skin, she gather’s her posse and start investigating on their own, with what they know. With the help of Kath’s ghost friend Geneva, who lives with Kath and will appear and talk to her at the most incontinent times, mainly when Kath is talking to another human.
Most of the characters are believable, but Geneva at times seems to be a little whinny, and almost childlike. Although the author has never said how old she actually is, one is led to believe that she is an adult, and very, very naive. The play between all the characters are starting to develop and you can almost see where the author is taking them. There still room for them all to develop more. I didn’t figure out who could of done the murder until I was almost two-thirds of the way done, but I did figure it out.
In the first book, the author tells you that the grandmother was a witch and that Kath was one also, but the author has elaborated on this any mean. It is mentioned one time in this installment and then nothing more. I don’t know if it will ever be fully explained or if the “Haunted” is going to be Geneva. I’ll have to continue on with the series to find out.
December 5, 2025
⭐⭐⭐
Dyeing Wishes by Molly MacRae is the second book in the Haunted Yarn Shop Mystery series, and it's a cozy, enjoyable read even if it doesn't quite reach the heights of the first book. Kath Rutledge inherited her grandmother's fiber and fabric shop along with a close-knit group of needlework lovers and Geneva, a television-obsessed ghost who lives in the attic. When Kath and her TGIF group (Thank Goodness it's Fiber) visit Cloud Hollow Farm to learn the art of dyeing, they discover two bodies under a tall tree. One of them is someone they know. Geneva is eager to play assistant sleuth, and Kath's friends push her to investigate. When another murder happens with similar circumstances, Kath knows she needs to figure out who's responsible.
The yarn shop atmosphere is warm and inviting, and the crafting details add nice texture to the story. Geneva the ghost provides quirky humor and genuine entertainment. The dyeing workshop and farm setting make for a pleasant backdrop to the mystery. I appreciated the focus on the fiber arts community and the friendships within the TGIF group.
The mystery itself is solid with enough suspects to keep you engaged. The pacing is a bit uneven, with some sections moving faster than others, but it's still an enjoyable read. The resolution ties things up nicely.
A good cozy mystery for fans of crafting and paranormal elements. If you enjoyed the first book or love yarn shop mysteries, this one's worth picking up.
#DyeingWishes #MollyMacRae #CozyMystery #YarnShopMystery #MysteryBooks
Dyeing Wishes by Molly MacRae is the second book in the Haunted Yarn Shop Mystery series, and it's a cozy, enjoyable read even if it doesn't quite reach the heights of the first book. Kath Rutledge inherited her grandmother's fiber and fabric shop along with a close-knit group of needlework lovers and Geneva, a television-obsessed ghost who lives in the attic. When Kath and her TGIF group (Thank Goodness it's Fiber) visit Cloud Hollow Farm to learn the art of dyeing, they discover two bodies under a tall tree. One of them is someone they know. Geneva is eager to play assistant sleuth, and Kath's friends push her to investigate. When another murder happens with similar circumstances, Kath knows she needs to figure out who's responsible.
The yarn shop atmosphere is warm and inviting, and the crafting details add nice texture to the story. Geneva the ghost provides quirky humor and genuine entertainment. The dyeing workshop and farm setting make for a pleasant backdrop to the mystery. I appreciated the focus on the fiber arts community and the friendships within the TGIF group.
The mystery itself is solid with enough suspects to keep you engaged. The pacing is a bit uneven, with some sections moving faster than others, but it's still an enjoyable read. The resolution ties things up nicely.
A good cozy mystery for fans of crafting and paranormal elements. If you enjoyed the first book or love yarn shop mysteries, this one's worth picking up.
#DyeingWishes #MollyMacRae #CozyMystery #YarnShopMystery #MysteryBooks
April 13, 2020
#2 in the Haunted Yarn Shop Mystery series. This 2013 cozy series entry by author Molly MacRae follows Kath Rutledge as she settles into her role as owner of the Weaver's Cat, a fiber arts store in Blue Plum, TN. She is also getting settles with shop cat, Argyle, and resident ghost, Geneva. The problem with this entry, however, is that while there is a lot that is very good in it, the pieces do not fit together perfectly. She is also still working on her relationships with the Dunbar brothers. At this time, there are still four entries in the series that remain unread, so I shall see what remains to be seen.
Always up for trying something new, Kath and her friends from the fiber and needlework group TGIF—Thank Goodness it’s Fiber—are visiting Cloud Hollow Farm for the day to learn the fine art of dyeing. With spring in the air, the friends head out to greet the sheep. But the sheep are more interested in something else—two bodies spread under a tall tree. And one of those bodies is someone they know. Kath’s friends nudge her to investigate, and no one is more adamant than Geneva, the ghost who loves to play assistant sleuth. But when Kath discovers another murder cut from the same cloth, she’s more determined than ever to hang a roving killer out to dry.
Always up for trying something new, Kath and her friends from the fiber and needlework group TGIF—Thank Goodness it’s Fiber—are visiting Cloud Hollow Farm for the day to learn the fine art of dyeing. With spring in the air, the friends head out to greet the sheep. But the sheep are more interested in something else—two bodies spread under a tall tree. And one of those bodies is someone they know. Kath’s friends nudge her to investigate, and no one is more adamant than Geneva, the ghost who loves to play assistant sleuth. But when Kath discovers another murder cut from the same cloth, she’s more determined than ever to hang a roving killer out to dry.
February 7, 2022
I haven't read the first book of this series, and I'm not convinced I will try to any time soon. I did like this book - it wasn't great, but it did enough to keep my interest.
I found a few things distracting. There was a fair bit of cheesy dialogue between the characters, where common words were replaced with words related to wool and knitting etc. That irritated me after a while. I also don't think I got a great feel for all the characters. Some were engaging, but others seemed a little light on. On the paranormal side, I didn't really find Geneva a good character - she kind of irritated me.
The mystery itself was fine. Like most cosy-mysteries, it sometimes took second place to others parts of the story. The ending seemed a little understated, especially considering the events that led to the conclusion. The main protagonist, Kath, holds the story together well enough. I found some contradictions with her character, mainly how she so often skives off from her shop when she's worried about money.
A nice cosy-mystery. I think cosy-mystery fans may like this series, but I'm not sure where I stand on paranormal cosy-mysteries.
I found a few things distracting. There was a fair bit of cheesy dialogue between the characters, where common words were replaced with words related to wool and knitting etc. That irritated me after a while. I also don't think I got a great feel for all the characters. Some were engaging, but others seemed a little light on. On the paranormal side, I didn't really find Geneva a good character - she kind of irritated me.
The mystery itself was fine. Like most cosy-mysteries, it sometimes took second place to others parts of the story. The ending seemed a little understated, especially considering the events that led to the conclusion. The main protagonist, Kath, holds the story together well enough. I found some contradictions with her character, mainly how she so often skives off from her shop when she's worried about money.
A nice cosy-mystery. I think cosy-mystery fans may like this series, but I'm not sure where I stand on paranormal cosy-mysteries.
May 27, 2018
This is probably a 3.5.
When I saw the phrase "Haunted Yarn Shop Mystery" I obviously had to read this. I hadn't read a paranormal cozy before and I liked the addition of the ghost. I also liked that the author seemed to be setting up some plot lines for the series, rather than everything being self-contained. The mystery itself was just ok. One thing to note is that rather than the pretty usual scene at the end where the sleuth finds herself in a precarious situation with the killer, that all happened off-screen (or off-page). So if you are very sensitive to suspense that could be a positive, although to me it seemed to be kind of an abrupt jump.
I liked that this took place in East Tennessee also because there were a few references to places I've heard of, although I think this is meant to be a bit farther east than I am. I would certainly read more of these because they were quick and I liked the setup for a bigger plot.
When I saw the phrase "Haunted Yarn Shop Mystery" I obviously had to read this. I hadn't read a paranormal cozy before and I liked the addition of the ghost. I also liked that the author seemed to be setting up some plot lines for the series, rather than everything being self-contained. The mystery itself was just ok. One thing to note is that rather than the pretty usual scene at the end where the sleuth finds herself in a precarious situation with the killer, that all happened off-screen (or off-page). So if you are very sensitive to suspense that could be a positive, although to me it seemed to be kind of an abrupt jump.
I liked that this took place in East Tennessee also because there were a few references to places I've heard of, although I think this is meant to be a bit farther east than I am. I would certainly read more of these because they were quick and I liked the setup for a bigger plot.
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