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Hanging by a Thread:
From USA Today Bestselling author Liz Talley comes a twisty tale of friendship, sleuthing, and secrets.
Being a part-time private investigator isn't as glamorous as antiques store owner Cricket Crosby thought it would be. That is, until she finds herself eyeballs deep investigating the attempted murder of a wealthy matriarch. A call from an old friend lands Cricket undercover at an upscale retirement community researching the cantankerous Annabelle Dilworth, who is convinced that someone wants her dead. Cricket suspects the unfriendly senior citizen is simply imagining shadows. Still, enough people dislike the old bat that Cricket dives into eliminating suspects.
Cricket ropes best pal Ruby into joining her investigation at the retirement community, even as Ruby has enough on her hands dealing with her own grandmother's health crisis and the launch of her fashion line. But when Annabelle turns up dead, Cricket and Ruby join forces to solve the mystery.
Filled with quirky characters and southern charm, Hanging by a Thread will leave you laughing, cheering, and guessing whodunit.
Being a part-time private investigator isn't as glamorous as antiques store owner Cricket Crosby thought it would be. That is, until she finds herself eyeballs deep investigating the attempted murder of a wealthy matriarch. A call from an old friend lands Cricket undercover at an upscale retirement community researching the cantankerous Annabelle Dilworth, who is convinced that someone wants her dead. Cricket suspects the unfriendly senior citizen is simply imagining shadows. Still, enough people dislike the old bat that Cricket dives into eliminating suspects.
Cricket ropes best pal Ruby into joining her investigation at the retirement community, even as Ruby has enough on her hands dealing with her own grandmother's health crisis and the launch of her fashion line. But when Annabelle turns up dead, Cricket and Ruby join forces to solve the mystery.
Filled with quirky characters and southern charm, Hanging by a Thread will leave you laughing, cheering, and guessing whodunit.
- GenresContemporary
330 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 24, 2023
136 people are currently reading
135 people want to read
About the author
Liz Talley
69 books930 followersI unashamedly read, write and love romance books. I adore the weight of a book in hand and the anticipation of a happy ending. I love the journey, the word play and the magic of story. Nothing's better than reading a good book...except writing one. You can learn more about me and my award-winning romances at http://www.liztalleybooks.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews
August 30, 2023
For me, this story didn’t have the pizazz the first two stories did. It does have lots of humor! I didn’t care for Griff’s being wishy-washy about he and Cricket’s relationship. For sensitive readers, it does contain bad language.
August 28, 2023
TW: Fatphobia
I really wanted to go with 2.5. Felt hastily written.
And I didn't notice this in the first two books of this series but Cricket is OBSSESSED with her weight and eating and losing weight and it feels shitty. She seemed way more secure and confident even when her husband was cheating in book one.
Also the story with Griff was hasty and slapped on to the end. And Ruby's mom piece was cliched ad trite and unnecessary.
I really wanted to go with 2.5. Felt hastily written.
And I didn't notice this in the first two books of this series but Cricket is OBSSESSED with her weight and eating and losing weight and it feels shitty. She seemed way more secure and confident even when her husband was cheating in book one.
Also the story with Griff was hasty and slapped on to the end. And Ruby's mom piece was cliched ad trite and unnecessary.
December 20, 2024
More capers with Cricket & Ruby!
Another fun visit with Cricket Crosby and her pal Ruby, along with a wide assortment of supporting characters. The assisted living environment was fun - I enjoyed Cricket's undercover work as an activities director! Good mystery, too - I hadn't puzzled this one out.
Fun!
Another fun visit with Cricket Crosby and her pal Ruby, along with a wide assortment of supporting characters. The assisted living environment was fun - I enjoyed Cricket's undercover work as an activities director! Good mystery, too - I hadn't puzzled this one out.
Fun!
December 19, 2023
And she's back!
I was not a fan of book 2, but this one was just as good as book 1!
Ruby was actually working on more clothing and her business, Cricket was investigating an attempted murder while also mothering a bratty daughter haha
Honestly, I will never understand how kids can just flaunt their cheating parent's life to the parent who stuck by them. It irks me, but ik 99% of the time that's how it is 😒
This one was a different because no murder had taken place when Cricket went under cover and love that even though Griffin was once again being a butt, she put herself first and wasn't constantly pinning because, well she had a LIFE! 👏👏
Poor Cricket saw more action in a nursing home than she wanted to see 😂
She was having fun and almost let the case go but then....plot twists happened! There were real motives and SO many suspects and threats going around and sex 🙊
It was crazy and while it all seemed mundane at first it got more and more exciting and I just WANT TO KNOW! lol
Great mystery, great friendships, amazing plot twists, just wish the romance had been up to par with the rest but still good 😁 haha
I was not a fan of book 2, but this one was just as good as book 1!
Ruby was actually working on more clothing and her business, Cricket was investigating an attempted murder while also mothering a bratty daughter haha
Honestly, I will never understand how kids can just flaunt their cheating parent's life to the parent who stuck by them. It irks me, but ik 99% of the time that's how it is 😒
This one was a different because no murder had taken place when Cricket went under cover and love that even though Griffin was once again being a butt, she put herself first and wasn't constantly pinning because, well she had a LIFE! 👏👏
Poor Cricket saw more action in a nursing home than she wanted to see 😂
She was having fun and almost let the case go but then....plot twists happened! There were real motives and SO many suspects and threats going around and sex 🙊
It was crazy and while it all seemed mundane at first it got more and more exciting and I just WANT TO KNOW! lol
Great mystery, great friendships, amazing plot twists, just wish the romance had been up to par with the rest but still good 😁 haha
June 24, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️💫 3.5 stars
As the third book in the Cricket Crosby Capers series, I was slightly disappointed with how it ended. Don’t get me wrong, Cricket going undercover as “Crissy Cross” had me laughing 😂 and the small-world twist involving Ruby’s grandma added some unexpected drama. I didn’t see the murder coming at all! I really thought it would wrap up with Annabelle being grateful for Cricket’s help, but… woah, that ending took a turn! 😳
Now, let’s talk about Griff… with his typical “dumb man mind” (lol). He knew he wanted Cricket but still had to make things complicated 🙄. I was so ready for them to finally be together, but it felt like an afterthought and the ending was way too abrupt.
Honestly, I feel like the book leaned too heavily into the case. I know it’s a cozy mystery, but I wanted more Cricket & Griff moments and way more Ruby & Dak! 💞
Still, it’s another solid Liz Talley read! I just wish the balance had been better.
As the third book in the Cricket Crosby Capers series, I was slightly disappointed with how it ended. Don’t get me wrong, Cricket going undercover as “Crissy Cross” had me laughing 😂 and the small-world twist involving Ruby’s grandma added some unexpected drama. I didn’t see the murder coming at all! I really thought it would wrap up with Annabelle being grateful for Cricket’s help, but… woah, that ending took a turn! 😳
Now, let’s talk about Griff… with his typical “dumb man mind” (lol). He knew he wanted Cricket but still had to make things complicated 🙄. I was so ready for them to finally be together, but it felt like an afterthought and the ending was way too abrupt.
Honestly, I feel like the book leaned too heavily into the case. I know it’s a cozy mystery, but I wanted more Cricket & Griff moments and way more Ruby & Dak! 💞
Still, it’s another solid Liz Talley read! I just wish the balance had been better.
January 30, 2025
Maybe my favorite of the Cricket caper series. Another PI detective case for Cricket. Wealthy Annabelle Dilworth thinks someone is trying to kill her so Cricket is on the case. No one at the retirement community likes Annabelle as she’s mean but odd things keep happening. Cricket goes undercover to figure it out.
Some twists and turns and her sidekick Ruby goes through it with her Gran having a stroke and saying at the same retirement community for her physical therapy. Cricket’s former flame pulls back and she’s sad about that, but she’s newly divorced and figuring herself out. She lives for herself now.
But the case turns into a murder and Cricket and Ruby are at the center of it all.
A silver case and a happy ending for Cricket and Ruby. All the books were funny, entertaining and kept me guessing as to whodunnit. I will definitely read more books by this author.
Some twists and turns and her sidekick Ruby goes through it with her Gran having a stroke and saying at the same retirement community for her physical therapy. Cricket’s former flame pulls back and she’s sad about that, but she’s newly divorced and figuring herself out. She lives for herself now.
But the case turns into a murder and Cricket and Ruby are at the center of it all.
A silver case and a happy ending for Cricket and Ruby. All the books were funny, entertaining and kept me guessing as to whodunnit. I will definitely read more books by this author.
August 27, 2023
What an entertaining romp this story is while solving a retirement home murder mystery!! Author Liz Talley delivers a quite clever plot with unexpected twists and a surprise ending. Situations are often poignant, yet lightened by Talley's trademark humor.
Characters continue to include strong, savvy women and intriguing men set in the sweet tea Southern culture of north Louisiana.
Talley does it very, very well in her first "Who done it?" mystery!
Characters continue to include strong, savvy women and intriguing men set in the sweet tea Southern culture of north Louisiana.
Talley does it very, very well in her first "Who done it?" mystery!
September 13, 2023
Great conclusion to this series. I read each book and totally enjoyed them. Book 3 was a bit different than the other two, in that there is a murder! I do not read Mysteries/Whodunit books often, and I had no idea who had done it. I think that is a gold star to the author, that I did not have a clue.
I loved the characters in series and it was nice to get to know them more personally in the 3 books.
I definitely recommend reading the entire series!
I loved the characters in series and it was nice to get to know them more personally in the 3 books.
I definitely recommend reading the entire series!
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July 28, 2024Seen with Skill
Liz Talley weaves a tale with two voices that leaves one wanting more. Cricket and Ruby are the most unlikely friends that makes one realize friendship can be found anywhere if open to it. Crickets adventures as a PI are so funny and take on a life of their own. I am so excited to see where Ruby's talent takes her. Heck, I would like to have a piece of Deconstrcted. Such fun reads.
Liz Talley weaves a tale with two voices that leaves one wanting more. Cricket and Ruby are the most unlikely friends that makes one realize friendship can be found anywhere if open to it. Crickets adventures as a PI are so funny and take on a life of their own. I am so excited to see where Ruby's talent takes her. Heck, I would like to have a piece of Deconstrcted. Such fun reads.
September 5, 2023
A Trifecta of the Best Kind
Cricket Crosby has worn many hats in her life, but her favorite has been as a PI. Will she be able to solve her latest case? Hanging by a Thread has many twists and turns that the reader will stay engaged with up until the end...or is it truly The End or is there another caper in Cricket's life? Thank you Liz Talley for another fun read!
Cricket Crosby has worn many hats in her life, but her favorite has been as a PI. Will she be able to solve her latest case? Hanging by a Thread has many twists and turns that the reader will stay engaged with up until the end...or is it truly The End or is there another caper in Cricket's life? Thank you Liz Talley for another fun read!
September 16, 2023
What a Great Triology
This was a refreshing, funny and heartfelt story told over three books.
Loved the humor woven in contrast with some serious themes.
The characters were all delightful in their own ways. They really were one big family.
Had a great ending but frankly I can see more stories. There's lots more to tell.
Give us book 4, Liz!
This was a refreshing, funny and heartfelt story told over three books.
Loved the humor woven in contrast with some serious themes.
The characters were all delightful in their own ways. They really were one big family.
Had a great ending but frankly I can see more stories. There's lots more to tell.
Give us book 4, Liz!
September 28, 2023
Cricket who is now a P I this time in a retirement community and looking out for Annabelle who is mean and her cat Mr. Bingles and of course Ruby helps with the investigation and Cricket is feeling she is getting no where with Griff and is getting to be friends with Wes. This book makes you laugh and also a who done it mystery. I really enjoyed reading this book.
October 1, 2023
We need more!!
I read all three, and the Cricket books are just perfect! A flawed but fabulous heroine - two really, both Cricket and Ruby - lots of laughs and love and thank God no contrived and stupid ten page sex scenes!! Just well written and super satisfying books. Please don't stop with three!
I read all three, and the Cricket books are just perfect! A flawed but fabulous heroine - two really, both Cricket and Ruby - lots of laughs and love and thank God no contrived and stupid ten page sex scenes!! Just well written and super satisfying books. Please don't stop with three!
October 5, 2023
I love the north Louisiana world of Cricket Crosby, and I'm thrilled whenever a new book comes out. Cricket and her friends, family, and occasional foes are all such wonderfully drawn characters. It's fun to spend time with them as I try to solve the mystery along with Cricket and Ruby. Highly recommend!
November 8, 2023
Good story but super repetitive
I wish I could give it more stars because I liked the plot, but the narrative was so repetitive. The author wanted to be extra sure you remembered details. So much so that she brought past plot lines and character information too many times. It made a perfectly good story drag on and a bit boring at times to get through. Bummer.
I wish I could give it more stars because I liked the plot, but the narrative was so repetitive. The author wanted to be extra sure you remembered details. So much so that she brought past plot lines and character information too many times. It made a perfectly good story drag on and a bit boring at times to get through. Bummer.
February 20, 2024
A fun setting with memorable characters
This is the third book in the series, and I have really enjoyed all three. The characters in this book are set at a retirement village and they are rich and colorful. There is love, addiction, some troubling events growing up, intrigue and murder. All wrapped up beautifully with a darling, colorful bow.
This is the third book in the series, and I have really enjoyed all three. The characters in this book are set at a retirement village and they are rich and colorful. There is love, addiction, some troubling events growing up, intrigue and murder. All wrapped up beautifully with a darling, colorful bow.
August 26, 2023
Liz Talley has done it again. Her third book in the Cricket Crosby series is as delightful as the first two and includes more of the quirky, entertaining characters she is known for, not to mention the hilarious “Southernisms” at which she excels. I recommend this book to anyone looking for a charming, fun read. You’ll have a hard time putting it down.
August 29, 2023
Love it!
Once again a whole host of delightful
characters captured my imagination. I didn't want the story to end. Left with the feeling that if Cricket and Ruby were real I would differently want to be there friend.
Once again a whole host of delightful
characters captured my imagination. I didn't want the story to end. Left with the feeling that if Cricket and Ruby were real I would differently want to be there friend.
August 30, 2023
Great read
Just like the previous two books, this book is a great way to escape reality. It is funny and a bit sad and well written as all of Liz Talley’s books.
And you will never look at Apple Blossom Spray again without thinking of Cricket. 😂😂😂
Just like the previous two books, this book is a great way to escape reality. It is funny and a bit sad and well written as all of Liz Talley’s books.
And you will never look at Apple Blossom Spray again without thinking of Cricket. 😂😂😂
August 30, 2023
Won't Leave You Hanging
The next installment in the Cricket Crosby series is another delightful caper that will have you laughing and wondering, "Whodunit?" til its reveal. Another Southern charmer and lighthearted read from Liz Talley. Very recommended!
The next installment in the Cricket Crosby series is another delightful caper that will have you laughing and wondering, "Whodunit?" til its reveal. Another Southern charmer and lighthearted read from Liz Talley. Very recommended!
November 5, 2023
Another fun opportunity to follow Cricket and her friends as she sleuths for clues in a murder. Both Cricket and Ruby shine in this tale of Southern charm and intrigue. I thoroughly enjoyed this series!
January 21, 2024
3.5 I have read all three of the books in this series. A fun and refreshing retreat reading about Cricket, antique store owner turned PI and her new friend, Ruby, convict turned vintage dress designer. All three books include their families, friends, community, and shenanigans.
August 27, 2023
A Great Series
I love this series and would recommend it. Well done. I was really happy to read about what Cricket and Ruby were up to.
I love this series and would recommend it. Well done. I was really happy to read about what Cricket and Ruby were up to.
August 29, 2023
5 Stars
5 stars for Hanging by a Thread (Cricket Crosby Caper Book 3). Cricket, her family, her friends, and her two jobs keep you laughing and guessing until the end.
5 stars for Hanging by a Thread (Cricket Crosby Caper Book 3). Cricket, her family, her friends, and her two jobs keep you laughing and guessing until the end.
August 29, 2023
Not nearly as good as the first 2. This one seemed to drag on without a true sense of direction
August 30, 2023
I love this series! Hope there is another one soon. Very well written.
August 30, 2023
Another Great Read from Liz
I love the books that Liz Talley writes! Is there going to be a 4th , Liz?? I know your readers would love it!!
I love the books that Liz Talley writes! Is there going to be a 4th , Liz?? I know your readers would love it!!
September 4, 2023
Loved It
Great, light-hearted book. Well written and fun to read. Not your typical who done it. I love everything written by Liz Talley.
Great, light-hearted book. Well written and fun to read. Not your typical who done it. I love everything written by Liz Talley.
September 5, 2023
Ruby and Cricket and friends!
I love these characters crafted by the amazing Liz Talley! I’m so glad she found more good words to share with us! Excellent book!!
I love these characters crafted by the amazing Liz Talley! I’m so glad she found more good words to share with us! Excellent book!!
September 13, 2023
Great third book about Cricket! Maybe even actually my favorite in the series. Love Ruby and Cricket’s friendship and all the characters related to Ruby. A real mystery tied up at the end.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews