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Yarn Retreat Mystery #10
Knot Dead Again
Foul weather turns to foul play when Casey Feldstein and her yarn retreat guests are trapped by a storm with a killer in their midst . . . When the perennially cloudy skies of Cadbury unleash a torrential downpour, yarn retreat host Casey Feldstein watches in dismay as the streets surrounding Vista Del Mar become flooded and she and her retreat guests are trapped there. But the storm is the least of their worries when a man is found dead in his room, and the guests begin to speculate that he may have been murdered. With the police unable to reach them, Casey is forced to fill their soggy shoes and investigate. She’s quick to discover evidence pointing to foul play, but with the guests growing restless and suspicious, it’s everything Casey and the staff can do to keep them fed, distracted—and safe. Then another body is found, and as the weather finally begins to clear, Casey realizes she has to act fast before the killer makes a clean getaway. Because the culprit has tampered with the evidence and is tying up loose ends, and Casey fears she may be left high and dry—or drenched and dead . . . Includes an easy crochet project and a blast-from-the-past retro recipe!Praise for the Yarn Retreat “A cozy mystery that you won’t want to put down. It combines cooking, knitting and murder in one great book!” —Fresh Fiction on Yarn to Go“If you haven’t read this series yet, I highly recommend giving it a go. The mystery will delight you, and afterward you’ll be itching to start a knitting or crochet project of your own.” —Cozy Mystery Book Reviews“The California seaside is the backdrop to this captivating cozy that will have readers heading for the yarn store in droves.” —Debbie’s Book Bag on Yarn to GoAbout the Betty Hechtman is the national bestselling author of the Crochet Mysteries and the Yarn Retreat Mysteries. She grew up on the South Side of Chicago and has a degree in Fine Art. Since college, she has studied everything from improv comedy to magic, and has had an assortment of professions, including volunteer farm worker, nanny at a summer resort, waitress at a coffee house, and telephone operator. She lives with her family and stash of yarn in Southern California. You can learn more about Betty and find excerpts from all her books at BettyHechtman.com. She blogs on Fridays at Killerhobbies.blogspot.com, and you can join her on Facebook at BettyHechtmanAuthor.
237 pages, Paperback
Published May 14, 2024
64 people are currently reading
155 people want to read
About the author
Betty Hechtman
34 books717 followersI grew up on the south side of Chicago and in a very busy weekend, got married, graduated college and moved to Los Angeles.
Although my degree is in Fine Arts, all I ever wanted to be was a writer and I've been doing it in one form or another for as long as I can remember. My shining moments in elementary and high school always involved stories or poetry I'd written. I wrote news stories and a weekly column in my college newspaper. My first job out of college was working on the newsletter of a finance company. I worked for a public relations firm and wrote press releases and biographies. Later I wrote proposals for video projects and television shows that went through various stages of development.
I tried writing screenplays and wrote three. I sold one and another was a winner in a Writers' Digest contest.
I was lucky enough to be a stay-at-home mom and did all kinds of volunteering at my son's schools including editing and writing several newsletters.
I wrote essays and small pieces that ran in the Los Angeles Times, the Daily News and Woman's Day among others. My short romantic and mystery fiction appeared in Woman's World, and Futures magazine.
From time I was a thirteen-year-old babysitter cooking for the kids I babysat, I dreamed of writing a book about babysitting. It took a little longer than I'd expected, but BLUE SCHWARTZ AND NEFERTITI'S NECKLACE was published in 2006.
My affair with crochet began in Las Vegas. I had always had a fascination with crochet, particularly granny squares, but thought there was some magic involved with making them that was beyond me. And then everything changed that day in Vegas when I saw the kids' kit in FAO Schwartz. If the instructions were easy enough for kids, I thought they might work for me.
My first granny square was missing a corner, but when I tried again, all four corners were there. I was in awe of my own accomplishment. I had found the magic. I went granny square crazy until pretty soon I didn't need directions anymore. Then I learned there were more squares than just basic grannies and I made squares with sunflowers in the middle and other patterns. I moved beyond squares and made flowers, hearts, bookmarks and more.
I was in love with crochet and began to make scarves, purses, afghans, and shawls. I started carrying my hooks everywhere. A plane trip became a pile of granny square wash cloths, or part of a shawl. A vacation in Hawaii turned into a tote bag.
And now I get to write about it...
** Sourced from authors website
Series:
* A Crochet Mystery
* Yarn Retreat
Although my degree is in Fine Arts, all I ever wanted to be was a writer and I've been doing it in one form or another for as long as I can remember. My shining moments in elementary and high school always involved stories or poetry I'd written. I wrote news stories and a weekly column in my college newspaper. My first job out of college was working on the newsletter of a finance company. I worked for a public relations firm and wrote press releases and biographies. Later I wrote proposals for video projects and television shows that went through various stages of development.
I tried writing screenplays and wrote three. I sold one and another was a winner in a Writers' Digest contest.
I was lucky enough to be a stay-at-home mom and did all kinds of volunteering at my son's schools including editing and writing several newsletters.
I wrote essays and small pieces that ran in the Los Angeles Times, the Daily News and Woman's Day among others. My short romantic and mystery fiction appeared in Woman's World, and Futures magazine.
From time I was a thirteen-year-old babysitter cooking for the kids I babysat, I dreamed of writing a book about babysitting. It took a little longer than I'd expected, but BLUE SCHWARTZ AND NEFERTITI'S NECKLACE was published in 2006.
My affair with crochet began in Las Vegas. I had always had a fascination with crochet, particularly granny squares, but thought there was some magic involved with making them that was beyond me. And then everything changed that day in Vegas when I saw the kids' kit in FAO Schwartz. If the instructions were easy enough for kids, I thought they might work for me.
My first granny square was missing a corner, but when I tried again, all four corners were there. I was in awe of my own accomplishment. I had found the magic. I went granny square crazy until pretty soon I didn't need directions anymore. Then I learned there were more squares than just basic grannies and I made squares with sunflowers in the middle and other patterns. I moved beyond squares and made flowers, hearts, bookmarks and more.
I was in love with crochet and began to make scarves, purses, afghans, and shawls. I started carrying my hooks everywhere. A plane trip became a pile of granny square wash cloths, or part of a shawl. A vacation in Hawaii turned into a tote bag.
And now I get to write about it...
** Sourced from authors website
Series:
* A Crochet Mystery
* Yarn Retreat
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews
January 17, 2026
Casey Feldstein is back at the Vista Del Mar lodge, preparing to hold one of her yarn retreats. A few of her participants arrive early, as well as participants for a self help conference. The rain starts and turns into a full fledged storm, also toppling a large tree on the driveway out of the lodge. When they call for help they hear that the whole town of Cadbury is full of flooded streets, and they can’t get to the lodge.
The next morning, there is a dead body. At first it appears to be natural causes, but Casey takes pictures and questions the death. Even still, the police cannot come to help. They spend their time creating meals from what’s on hand, encouraging everyone to participate in the yarn craft planned, and watching the storm. Surprise, there’s another death! And this one definitely points to murder. So, who among them is the murderer?
Added to this book in the series, Casey & Dane’s relationship is threatened. Time apart and lack of contact makes this especially difficult for Casey. Once the rain stops, the weather is not the only thing to clear up. While not my favorite, it’s a fun series, especially if you are attracted to a weekend of crafts in a beautiful setting.
However, I don’t think I’d want to stay at the Vista Del Mar! I can imagine the following:
Yelp review - I enjoyed a weekend at the Vista Del Mar lodge. Though rustic, the natural beauty is stunning. However, once I discovered the string of death and murders that had occurred here in the last few years… I checked out! I think I’m lucky to get out alive.
3-1/2 rounded to 4
The next morning, there is a dead body. At first it appears to be natural causes, but Casey takes pictures and questions the death. Even still, the police cannot come to help. They spend their time creating meals from what’s on hand, encouraging everyone to participate in the yarn craft planned, and watching the storm. Surprise, there’s another death! And this one definitely points to murder. So, who among them is the murderer?
Added to this book in the series, Casey & Dane’s relationship is threatened. Time apart and lack of contact makes this especially difficult for Casey. Once the rain stops, the weather is not the only thing to clear up. While not my favorite, it’s a fun series, especially if you are attracted to a weekend of crafts in a beautiful setting.
However, I don’t think I’d want to stay at the Vista Del Mar! I can imagine the following:
Yelp review - I enjoyed a weekend at the Vista Del Mar lodge. Though rustic, the natural beauty is stunning. However, once I discovered the string of death and murders that had occurred here in the last few years… I checked out! I think I’m lucky to get out alive.
3-1/2 rounded to 4
May 2, 2024
Casey has her hands full with this yarn retreat. Flooding has occurred and she as well as a couple of other retreat leaders are trapped at the resort with only a handful of early arrivals that showed up for the weekend. Unfortunately, not all are there with good intentions and things are going from bad to worse all while Casey is also trying to hold back her own personal problems as it seems Dane has decided to move on without telling her. Once again, excellent characters that come to life on the page and draw you into their lives and emotions. A well thought out plot with ample red herrings and clues to lead you in the right or wrong direction, depending on what you focus on. The multiple plots merging into one seamless plot make this story engaging and entertaining. As always, I am left wanting more, more, more!
No spoiler alerts here, but if Dane does decide to pull his head out of the fog of his old flame, he needs to do a lot of begging to make up for the fact that he supposedly loves Casey, but seemed to quickly fall back into rhythm with his old flame pretty fast. Not someone I would trust in the long haul unless he proved himself worthy in some manner. After all, the entire town knows he had taken back up with his old flame without bothering to tell Casey about it. I'll be curious to see how this aspect of Casey's story plays out in the future! One more reason I need more, more, more!
No spoiler alerts here, but if Dane does decide to pull his head out of the fog of his old flame, he needs to do a lot of begging to make up for the fact that he supposedly loves Casey, but seemed to quickly fall back into rhythm with his old flame pretty fast. Not someone I would trust in the long haul unless he proved himself worthy in some manner. After all, the entire town knows he had taken back up with his old flame without bothering to tell Casey about it. I'll be curious to see how this aspect of Casey's story plays out in the future! One more reason I need more, more, more!
April 28, 2024
#KnotDeadAgain #NetGalley is another page turner that will keep the reader guessing until the end.
Casey is running another yarn retreat, but this time, a raging storm renders them all isolated and a dead body and a murderer add a lot of pressure to her frayed nerves.
This was a good addition to this series, I liked the way the story played out and the mystery was well done.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for selecting me to read an advanced copy of this book.
Casey is running another yarn retreat, but this time, a raging storm renders them all isolated and a dead body and a murderer add a lot of pressure to her frayed nerves.
This was a good addition to this series, I liked the way the story played out and the mystery was well done.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for selecting me to read an advanced copy of this book.
December 13, 2024
Too many of Betty Hechtman's characters acted out-of-character in "Knot Dead Again." Still, it was nice to read a fresh Yarn Retreat Mystery, even if it had a few tangled knots.
It's the off-season at Vista Del Mar, and Casey has a yarn retreat planned. The skies open with a gully washer, and Casey is trapped at the resort with a few of her friends and a motley assortment of folks from three different retreat events.
Then, people start dying.
My biggest gripe about the book is that Cloris, the assistant manager who has worked almost every job at the resort and who is the epitome of professionalism and competence, totally dropped the ball this time around. When confronted with an unexpected natural disaster, Cloris literally hid from the resort guests.
Sorry. That's not the Cloris we know and count on for competence in every situation.
Also, it's the off-season. There were very few resort guests compared to the usual number. Most of those who signed up for the various retreats on offer didn't make it to Vista Del Mar before the flooding made arrival impossible. Rather than offering Casey, Lucinda, Madeleine and Crystal guest rooms and beds, Cloris had them (herself, included) sleep in chairs around the fireplace in the main building. That's just silly.
And you really expect us to believe that Cloris was the only resort employee on duty, that nobody else would have stayed to ensure that she had backup in case the relief crew failed to show?
Sammy was the bright spot in this book. He's a sweetie and continues to be kind and helpful.
Hechtman left plenty of holes in the murder stories. That's OK. We don't expect tight writing in that regard. The story was mostly fine . . . except for Cloris behaving so out-of-character.
It's the off-season at Vista Del Mar, and Casey has a yarn retreat planned. The skies open with a gully washer, and Casey is trapped at the resort with a few of her friends and a motley assortment of folks from three different retreat events.
Then, people start dying.
My biggest gripe about the book is that Cloris, the assistant manager who has worked almost every job at the resort and who is the epitome of professionalism and competence, totally dropped the ball this time around. When confronted with an unexpected natural disaster, Cloris literally hid from the resort guests.
Sorry. That's not the Cloris we know and count on for competence in every situation.
Also, it's the off-season. There were very few resort guests compared to the usual number. Most of those who signed up for the various retreats on offer didn't make it to Vista Del Mar before the flooding made arrival impossible. Rather than offering Casey, Lucinda, Madeleine and Crystal guest rooms and beds, Cloris had them (herself, included) sleep in chairs around the fireplace in the main building. That's just silly.
And you really expect us to believe that Cloris was the only resort employee on duty, that nobody else would have stayed to ensure that she had backup in case the relief crew failed to show?
Sammy was the bright spot in this book. He's a sweetie and continues to be kind and helpful.
Hechtman left plenty of holes in the murder stories. That's OK. We don't expect tight writing in that regard. The story was mostly fine . . . except for Cloris behaving so out-of-character.
May 10, 2024
I've missed a couple of books in this series but I think it stands alone quite well.
Interesting collection of characters of all sorts and the murder occurs when the retreat lodge is enisled by torrential rains and flooding. Good read on a rainy day.
I requested and received a free temporary EARC from Beyond the Page via NetGalley.
#YarnRetreatMysteriesBk10
Interesting collection of characters of all sorts and the murder occurs when the retreat lodge is enisled by torrential rains and flooding. Good read on a rainy day.
I requested and received a free temporary EARC from Beyond the Page via NetGalley.
#YarnRetreatMysteriesBk10
July 21, 2025
This is my first Betty Hechtman and probably my last. Characters were flat, the premise was damn confusing - is the protagonist’s house across the street or a mile away? The persistent fussing about younger generations was overly preachy though this Millenial can certainly tell you that it’s highly unlikely to have cell service in one spot and a total dead zone across the street.
Overall a quick read but not one I’ll return to.
Overall a quick read but not one I’ll return to.
June 4, 2025
The first 6 chapters were just rehashing things she’s said in other books. And the narration of these books is poorly done. They don’t seem to have post production where they would clean up the narrator’s flubs. But having read all the prior books, I read this one because I am interested in the characters. Except Frank who should never be mentioned again.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 16, 2024
This story was mostly about food prep and very little about a murder mystery.
Knot Dead Again is the first in the Yarn Retreat series for me. The first few chapters, where all the series regulars seem to be introduced, were a bit overwhelming because of that. At the same time I had the feeling I was missing out on something. This had mainly to do with the relationship between Casey and Dane.
But as soon as Casey, and the story, arrived at Vista Del Mar, the feeling of being left out subsided. From here the book can be read as a stand alone. There is a very slow run up to the (first) death, which Casey spends for a large amount sitting in the lobby watching all the key players/guests arrive.
The story continues to be slow moving after one of the guest, the host of another retreat scheduled the same weekend, is found dead in his bed. It seems he died of natural causes in his sleep, though Casey treats the room as a crime scene. Even calls it a crime scene and calls the police to report the death rather than a physician. Not that either can reach the hotel due to the storm and fallen trees.
The other guests are all unpleasant people. When Casey and Cloris, the interim hotel manager, finally decide to tell the other guests a guest has passed away - they didn’t tell before because they didn’t want them to get upset - the guests respond with “a barrage of questions about the cause”. There are pleasant and unpleasant ways to inform about a cause of death. This sounded like an unpleasant way. There was no mention that any one of them expressed condolences to the widow, who was sitting only a few feet away from the rest of the group.
It seems the widow was not consulted about when and what information to share with the group. No points for Casey and Cloris on empathy either.
Or on smarts for that matter. Having decided that the death was suspicious after all, Casey comes up with one suspect: the wife. She would have the best opportunity to use the means. Casey conveniently ignores that the wife also has the best opportunity to remove the means from the room of the victim before warning anyone about her husband’s death. Unless she forgot, she would have no reason to go back and remove the means at a later time.
Aside from my dislike of citing “the wife is the first suspect”, considering only one suspect makes for a rather boring murder mystery. Actually, almost 70% into the book, it becomes rather aggravating that Casey and friends are still looking at only one suspect. The victim was going to host a retreat; his wife was not the only person present that knew he was was going to be there. At least two other people knew too, and there were at least two people present that disliked him. How hard is it to keep an open mind (Casey’s words) that is actually open to alternative scenarios?
Props for the author for showing what tunnel vision looks like. It’s not until 87% into the story that Casey considers that someone wanted to frame the wife for the murder of her husband.
The plot of the book sounded like it could have a great mystery: a group of people is cut off from the outside world, then one of them dies. It could have been a real tension grabber. In stead it got bogged down in meal prep and thinking of activities to keep a group of adults busy. And no one thought of the activity ‘see if we can get the road cleared ourselves so we can get out of here’. Bunch of wet blankets.
I read an ARC through NetGalley.
Knot Dead Again is the first in the Yarn Retreat series for me. The first few chapters, where all the series regulars seem to be introduced, were a bit overwhelming because of that. At the same time I had the feeling I was missing out on something. This had mainly to do with the relationship between Casey and Dane.
But as soon as Casey, and the story, arrived at Vista Del Mar, the feeling of being left out subsided. From here the book can be read as a stand alone. There is a very slow run up to the (first) death, which Casey spends for a large amount sitting in the lobby watching all the key players/guests arrive.
The story continues to be slow moving after one of the guest, the host of another retreat scheduled the same weekend, is found dead in his bed. It seems he died of natural causes in his sleep, though Casey treats the room as a crime scene. Even calls it a crime scene and calls the police to report the death rather than a physician. Not that either can reach the hotel due to the storm and fallen trees.
The other guests are all unpleasant people. When Casey and Cloris, the interim hotel manager, finally decide to tell the other guests a guest has passed away - they didn’t tell before because they didn’t want them to get upset - the guests respond with “a barrage of questions about the cause”. There are pleasant and unpleasant ways to inform about a cause of death. This sounded like an unpleasant way. There was no mention that any one of them expressed condolences to the widow, who was sitting only a few feet away from the rest of the group.
It seems the widow was not consulted about when and what information to share with the group. No points for Casey and Cloris on empathy either.
Or on smarts for that matter. Having decided that the death was suspicious after all, Casey comes up with one suspect: the wife. She would have the best opportunity to use the means. Casey conveniently ignores that the wife also has the best opportunity to remove the means from the room of the victim before warning anyone about her husband’s death. Unless she forgot, she would have no reason to go back and remove the means at a later time.
Aside from my dislike of citing “the wife is the first suspect”, considering only one suspect makes for a rather boring murder mystery. Actually, almost 70% into the book, it becomes rather aggravating that Casey and friends are still looking at only one suspect. The victim was going to host a retreat; his wife was not the only person present that knew he was was going to be there. At least two other people knew too, and there were at least two people present that disliked him. How hard is it to keep an open mind (Casey’s words) that is actually open to alternative scenarios?
Props for the author for showing what tunnel vision looks like. It’s not until 87% into the story that Casey considers that someone wanted to frame the wife for the murder of her husband.
The plot of the book sounded like it could have a great mystery: a group of people is cut off from the outside world, then one of them dies. It could have been a real tension grabber. In stead it got bogged down in meal prep and thinking of activities to keep a group of adults busy. And no one thought of the activity ‘see if we can get the road cleared ourselves so we can get out of here’. Bunch of wet blankets.
I read an ARC through NetGalley.
May 2, 2024
Casey Feldstein thinks the retreat she's planning will be just like any other. Crocheters and knitters will gather at Vista Del Mar, enjoy some yarn crafting, eat delicious meals, and enjoy camaraderie in a relaxing environment. But when a deluge surrounds the resort with water and she's stranded with her assistant and the few early arrivals for two different retreats, things quickly break down. When someone is murdered, Casey quickly suspects it was no accident and if that's the case then she's trapped with a killer.
I picked this book because I thought it was one of Hechtman's Crochet mysteries. This was the first Yarn Retreat mystery I've read and I found it extremely hard to follow. There were a lot of characters and they weren't really introduced in any great detail. This is not something that I would find problematic if I had read the rest of the books in the series but for someone just getting started with the series it was very hard to figure out who was who. It wasn't until probably 3/4 of the way through the book that I felt like I had a good handle on who the main characters were, I never really did get the retreat attendees straight. I also found Vista Del Mar hard to figure out. Everything seemed to be in different buildings. Given the constant pouring rain I didn't really understand why everyone didn't just stay in one building, or spend as much time as possible in one building, but the characters were constantly putting on their garbage bag ponchos and going outside.
Despite these issues I did enjoy the story. I love the closed-room mystery and each of the characters had their own motives and opportunities. The killer was fairly transparent and the red herring was quite obvious (which is pretty much how it should be for a red herring). I really liked Casey, though I felt she was giving up a bit too easy. Lucinda got a bit annoying with her constant phone calls to Tag and Cloris was pretty much worthless. I wish we could have seen a bit more of Madeline, she was an interesting character and was going through a stressful time, storms notwithstanding. Though I didn't really understand the layout of Vista Del Mar, it was a fun setting.
While I didn't love this book, it definitely piqued my interest. I own several books from the series and am looking forward to going back to the beginning and reading them in order.
Thank you to the author, the publisher, and NetGalley for providing me with an ARC.
I picked this book because I thought it was one of Hechtman's Crochet mysteries. This was the first Yarn Retreat mystery I've read and I found it extremely hard to follow. There were a lot of characters and they weren't really introduced in any great detail. This is not something that I would find problematic if I had read the rest of the books in the series but for someone just getting started with the series it was very hard to figure out who was who. It wasn't until probably 3/4 of the way through the book that I felt like I had a good handle on who the main characters were, I never really did get the retreat attendees straight. I also found Vista Del Mar hard to figure out. Everything seemed to be in different buildings. Given the constant pouring rain I didn't really understand why everyone didn't just stay in one building, or spend as much time as possible in one building, but the characters were constantly putting on their garbage bag ponchos and going outside.
Despite these issues I did enjoy the story. I love the closed-room mystery and each of the characters had their own motives and opportunities. The killer was fairly transparent and the red herring was quite obvious (which is pretty much how it should be for a red herring). I really liked Casey, though I felt she was giving up a bit too easy. Lucinda got a bit annoying with her constant phone calls to Tag and Cloris was pretty much worthless. I wish we could have seen a bit more of Madeline, she was an interesting character and was going through a stressful time, storms notwithstanding. Though I didn't really understand the layout of Vista Del Mar, it was a fun setting.
While I didn't love this book, it definitely piqued my interest. I own several books from the series and am looking forward to going back to the beginning and reading them in order.
Thank you to the author, the publisher, and NetGalley for providing me with an ARC.
August 31, 2024
Book Review: Knot Dead Again by Betty Hechtman
Rating: 3 Stars
I recently finished reading Knot Dead Again by Betty Hechtman, and it was quite the ride! This cozy mystery had everything I enjoy: a charming setting, engaging characters, and a plot that kept me guessing. However, it also had some elements that dampened the experience just a bit.
Let me start with the premise. The story unfolds as Casey Feldstein, our yarn retreat host, finds herself and her guests trapped at Vista Del Mar due to a torrential downpour—definitely not ideal for a relaxing getaway! Just when you think the weather is the worst of their problems, a guest turns up dead in his room, prompting speculation about foul play. With police unable to reach them due to the storm, Casey takes it upon herself to investigate the mystery and keep her guests safe. As more bodies turn up and tensions rise, Casey finds herself racing against time to solve the case before the killer slips away.
Now, onto what I thought about the book. First off, can we take a moment to appreciate the cover? It’s perfection! I was already intrigued to dive into the story just by looking at it. In terms of plot, I loved how well-structured the mystery was. The pacing kept me engaged, and I found the setting of Cadbury to be delightful. The characters were mostly likable too, which made me root for Casey as she navigated this stormy situation—both literally and figuratively.
However, I did take off a star for one significant reason: the relationship drama. There was way too much focus on Casey's romantic entanglements—especially with Dane. It felt repetitive and, honestly, a bit frustrating at times. I mean, c’mon! A simple five-minute conversation could have cleared up so much tension. When I pick up a cozy mystery, I’m really in it for the mystery itself rather than a heavy dose of relationship angst.
That said, I'm hopeful about the next installment in the series. It looks like things may take a better turn (fingers crossed!). Overall, Knot Dead Again was enjoyable despite its flaws, and I’m still on board to see where Casey’s adventures take her next. If you’re a fan of cozy mysteries without too much romantic drama, you might want to tread lightly on this one—but it’s definitely worth a read if you’re looking for an engaging whodunit with some knitting twists!
⚠️This review was written based on personal opinions and experiences with the book. Individual preferences may vary⚠️
Rating: 3 Stars
I recently finished reading Knot Dead Again by Betty Hechtman, and it was quite the ride! This cozy mystery had everything I enjoy: a charming setting, engaging characters, and a plot that kept me guessing. However, it also had some elements that dampened the experience just a bit.
Let me start with the premise. The story unfolds as Casey Feldstein, our yarn retreat host, finds herself and her guests trapped at Vista Del Mar due to a torrential downpour—definitely not ideal for a relaxing getaway! Just when you think the weather is the worst of their problems, a guest turns up dead in his room, prompting speculation about foul play. With police unable to reach them due to the storm, Casey takes it upon herself to investigate the mystery and keep her guests safe. As more bodies turn up and tensions rise, Casey finds herself racing against time to solve the case before the killer slips away.
Now, onto what I thought about the book. First off, can we take a moment to appreciate the cover? It’s perfection! I was already intrigued to dive into the story just by looking at it. In terms of plot, I loved how well-structured the mystery was. The pacing kept me engaged, and I found the setting of Cadbury to be delightful. The characters were mostly likable too, which made me root for Casey as she navigated this stormy situation—both literally and figuratively.
However, I did take off a star for one significant reason: the relationship drama. There was way too much focus on Casey's romantic entanglements—especially with Dane. It felt repetitive and, honestly, a bit frustrating at times. I mean, c’mon! A simple five-minute conversation could have cleared up so much tension. When I pick up a cozy mystery, I’m really in it for the mystery itself rather than a heavy dose of relationship angst.
That said, I'm hopeful about the next installment in the series. It looks like things may take a better turn (fingers crossed!). Overall, Knot Dead Again was enjoyable despite its flaws, and I’m still on board to see where Casey’s adventures take her next. If you’re a fan of cozy mysteries without too much romantic drama, you might want to tread lightly on this one—but it’s definitely worth a read if you’re looking for an engaging whodunit with some knitting twists!
⚠️This review was written based on personal opinions and experiences with the book. Individual preferences may vary⚠️
April 30, 2024
asey was a different type of detective than I have gotten used to in cozies. She seems a time a little flighty because she has had so many starts and stops in her story to become the person she is meant to be. At one time, she thinks again about moving on to another adventure. Fortunately, she decides to stick it out in Cadbury for another yarn retreat and this one leaves her tied in knots trying to unravel the puzzle. We get what is becoming a stable in the genre a trapped with the killer story that further amps up the drama of the guests who are not a happy together bunch. The floodwaters churn as another body drops and it is up to a yarn aficionado and baking gem to untangle the story and find the killer.
Along the way, Casey is also dealing with tangled emotions as the man she finally realizes she loves may be slipping away. I'm not a huge fan of the return of the ex-girlfriend. I think I may be a bit of a romantic and I don't like anyone who interferes in the love that is supposed to be. Saying that I'm sure that is the author's intention to keep us wondering if the ship has sailed for Casey and Dane. He did seem a little too focused on Stacy at least at the beginning when she returned. Loved how the small time gossip vines were working in high gear and everyone knew what was going on and could share that with Casey. Reminds me of so many other small tight knit towns including my own. Can't story the gossip even if it is painful to be on the receiving end of bad news.
Before i wrap this up, Madeline has grown so much as part of this series and found myself with a case of the feels when she felt rejected by Milton. In my opinion, having great side characters who we care about makes the book stronger and feeling bad for Madeline is a good example of that.
This is a nice series to read even though I personally will not be trying any of the yarn projects. I love crafts but an not a knitter.
Thanks to NetGalley and Beyond the Page Publishing for the opportunity to read this ARC.
Along the way, Casey is also dealing with tangled emotions as the man she finally realizes she loves may be slipping away. I'm not a huge fan of the return of the ex-girlfriend. I think I may be a bit of a romantic and I don't like anyone who interferes in the love that is supposed to be. Saying that I'm sure that is the author's intention to keep us wondering if the ship has sailed for Casey and Dane. He did seem a little too focused on Stacy at least at the beginning when she returned. Loved how the small time gossip vines were working in high gear and everyone knew what was going on and could share that with Casey. Reminds me of so many other small tight knit towns including my own. Can't story the gossip even if it is painful to be on the receiving end of bad news.
Before i wrap this up, Madeline has grown so much as part of this series and found myself with a case of the feels when she felt rejected by Milton. In my opinion, having great side characters who we care about makes the book stronger and feeling bad for Madeline is a good example of that.
This is a nice series to read even though I personally will not be trying any of the yarn projects. I love crafts but an not a knitter.
Thanks to NetGalley and Beyond the Page Publishing for the opportunity to read this ARC.
May 15, 2024
This is my favorite of the series and a exciting atmospheric mystery ! Knot Dead Again is the 10th book in the "Yarn Retreat Mystery Series." I have enjoyed the entire series and was pleased to receive this for review. Thank you to Net Galley, the publisher and the author for the opportunity for review. My review opinions are my own. Casey is a smart savvy protagnist who readers can relate to. In this next in series she has suffered a set back in her relationship with Dane and is moving forward with her new retreat planning while supported by her friends. The author has created the perfect setting in fictional "Cadbury By The Sea" at the Alisomar Resort. which we locals know as Pacific Grove. The setting of a historic resort in the redwoods by the sea is brought to life beautifully for the reader by the author.
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Casey has a fun beginning crochet retreat planned at Vista Del Mar. The manager is out of town and she hopes for a smooth retreat . As the guest arrive for the other retreats of the week disagreements keep Casey and staff trying to keep the peace. One retreat manager is particulary disliked for his faux self help and previous attendees show up angry with him. When he is found dead and a torrential rain traps everyone at the resort Casey is on the case whille attempting to keep the guest calm and find the rightful suspect. A second murder occurs and Casey works to find the killer among them and keep everyone safe.
I loved the setting of the guests trapped by a rainstorm creating suspicion and mystery to the murders. The multitude of characters are brillantly drawn to the plot and all add to the mystery. Mysterious motives arise with red herrings as Casey takes over the investigation. . Casey takes charge in this book while investigating the murder and maintaining order among the guest. This was such a exciting read I read it in one sitting. I highly recommend this next in series for your reading enjoyment. Well done to author Betty Hechtman. I look forward to the next in series.
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Casey has a fun beginning crochet retreat planned at Vista Del Mar. The manager is out of town and she hopes for a smooth retreat . As the guest arrive for the other retreats of the week disagreements keep Casey and staff trying to keep the peace. One retreat manager is particulary disliked for his faux self help and previous attendees show up angry with him. When he is found dead and a torrential rain traps everyone at the resort Casey is on the case whille attempting to keep the guest calm and find the rightful suspect. A second murder occurs and Casey works to find the killer among them and keep everyone safe.
I loved the setting of the guests trapped by a rainstorm creating suspicion and mystery to the murders. The multitude of characters are brillantly drawn to the plot and all add to the mystery. Mysterious motives arise with red herrings as Casey takes over the investigation. . Casey takes charge in this book while investigating the murder and maintaining order among the guest. This was such a exciting read I read it in one sitting. I highly recommend this next in series for your reading enjoyment. Well done to author Betty Hechtman. I look forward to the next in series.
May 1, 2024
Thank you so much to NetGalley and Betty Hechtman for providing me with a complimentary digital ARC for Knot Dead Again coming out May 14, 2024. The honest opinions expressed in this review are my own.
When the perennially cloudy skies of Cadbury unleash a torrential downpour, yarn retreat host Casey Feldstein watches in dismay as the streets surrounding Vista Del Mar become flooded and she and her retreat guests are trapped there. But the storm is the least of their worries when a man is found dead in his room, and the guests begin to speculate that he may have been murdered. With the police unable to reach them, Casey is forced to fill their soggy shoes and investigate.
She’s quick to discover evidence pointing to foul play, but with the guests growing restless and suspicious, it’s everything Casey and the staff can do to keep them fed, distracted—and safe. Then another body is found, and as the weather finally begins to clear, Casey realizes she has to act fast before the killer makes a clean getaway. Because the culprit has tampered with the evidence and is tying up loose ends, and Casey fears she may be left high and dry—or drenched and dead . . .
This is the first book I’ve read by this author. I haven’t read the other books in the series, but I felt it was easy to dive in. I love cozy books about sewing, so I thought this would be a good one. Overall, I really enjoyed it. There were a couple parts where it felt a little too much like a therapy session. I’m not sure if that’s the norm with this series. But I thought Casey’s character was fun and I’d read more books in the series.
I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys cozy yarn mysteries!
When the perennially cloudy skies of Cadbury unleash a torrential downpour, yarn retreat host Casey Feldstein watches in dismay as the streets surrounding Vista Del Mar become flooded and she and her retreat guests are trapped there. But the storm is the least of their worries when a man is found dead in his room, and the guests begin to speculate that he may have been murdered. With the police unable to reach them, Casey is forced to fill their soggy shoes and investigate.
She’s quick to discover evidence pointing to foul play, but with the guests growing restless and suspicious, it’s everything Casey and the staff can do to keep them fed, distracted—and safe. Then another body is found, and as the weather finally begins to clear, Casey realizes she has to act fast before the killer makes a clean getaway. Because the culprit has tampered with the evidence and is tying up loose ends, and Casey fears she may be left high and dry—or drenched and dead . . .
This is the first book I’ve read by this author. I haven’t read the other books in the series, but I felt it was easy to dive in. I love cozy books about sewing, so I thought this would be a good one. Overall, I really enjoyed it. There were a couple parts where it felt a little too much like a therapy session. I’m not sure if that’s the norm with this series. But I thought Casey’s character was fun and I’d read more books in the series.
I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys cozy yarn mysteries!
April 30, 2024
Knot Dead Again by Betty Hechtman has Casey Feldstein dealing with a beginner’s yarn retreat, a destructive storm, a nervous assistant manager, and boyfriend troubles. We get to catch up with the regular characters (Casey, Lucinda, Tag, Sammy, Madeleine, Dane, Cloris, Kevin, and, of course, Julius) plus we get to meet the guests staying at Vista Del Mar (there are three retreats taking place including Casey’s). The story moves at a languid pace. The pacing needed to be peppier, and action would have helped. There is too much repetition (spaghetti is mentioned ten times) and unnecessary details (discussing meal, preparing meals, cleaning up from cooking, lack of food—I wonder if the author hungry when she wrote this story). When we are told for the second time how Casey wraps Julius’s stinky fish cat food in layers of clear wrap, aluminum foil, and baggies, I wanted to tell her to buy smaller cans (such as single meal cans) and has she never heard of a cat food can cover (put on the cover and stuff it in a baggie or two if needed). Casey’s romantic problems overshadowed the mystery (it dominates her thoughts). The mystery was simple. The killer can be identified before anyone is murdered. The why takes just a little longer to uncover. Casey enjoys having a leading role in solving the crime (thanks to the storm). She recruits her friends to help her unravel the whodunit. Knot Dead Again is the tenth A Yarn Retreat Mystery. It can be read as a standalone as the author provides all the background information a new reader needs. There is a pattern at the end for the heart garland (it would look cute on a Valentine’s tree) and the recipe for the Happy Days Retro Cake. Knot Dead Again takes us to Cadbury by the Sea with a rainy retreat, stinky fish food, romantic troubles, a murdered man, corrupted clues, and an overwhelmed assistant manager.
May 30, 2024
I just love books about yarn whether it be crochet or knitting. A yarn retreat book series was all it took for me to want to read this. This is a new author to me, but I enjoyed this book greatly. I will be checking out her other books.
Casey is a great character. She's sweet, funny, and has the propensity to want to run from conflict. I related to her a lot because I used to be that way myself. She finds herself in an awkward position with the guy that she has been dating in the beginning and then decides she's going to let him have what he thinks he wants and leave town; even though she had only been there a short time. Well, little does she know that that is not going to happen. She and her yarn retreat pals are all stuck at the local motel and things just continue to go wrong.
I believe that sometimes in life, when we're about to make the wrong decision then sometimes things happen to help us rethink our decisions. Casey's situation is no different. Everything that can go wrong, does go wrong but she rallies time and time again for her friends. Like I said, she's a great character.
Throughout all of the disasters and romantic entanglements, she comes to realize some things need to change and it really helps her out in the end of the book. The crazy clues and red herrings really livened up this mystery as with all of the disasters that kept happening also helped keep you distracted from who you really believed the killer is.
A delightful cozy with plenty of punch to it. I will be reading these books and the author's others for a good long time to come.
Thanks to Net Galley, the publishers, and to Betty Hechtman for the ability to read and review this book. All opinions are honest and are completely mine alone.
Casey is a great character. She's sweet, funny, and has the propensity to want to run from conflict. I related to her a lot because I used to be that way myself. She finds herself in an awkward position with the guy that she has been dating in the beginning and then decides she's going to let him have what he thinks he wants and leave town; even though she had only been there a short time. Well, little does she know that that is not going to happen. She and her yarn retreat pals are all stuck at the local motel and things just continue to go wrong.
I believe that sometimes in life, when we're about to make the wrong decision then sometimes things happen to help us rethink our decisions. Casey's situation is no different. Everything that can go wrong, does go wrong but she rallies time and time again for her friends. Like I said, she's a great character.
Throughout all of the disasters and romantic entanglements, she comes to realize some things need to change and it really helps her out in the end of the book. The crazy clues and red herrings really livened up this mystery as with all of the disasters that kept happening also helped keep you distracted from who you really believed the killer is.
A delightful cozy with plenty of punch to it. I will be reading these books and the author's others for a good long time to come.
Thanks to Net Galley, the publishers, and to Betty Hechtman for the ability to read and review this book. All opinions are honest and are completely mine alone.
March 19, 2025
Knot Dead Again by Betty Hechtman
I received an advance review copy for free thanks to NetGalley and Beyond the Page Publishing and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Blurb
Foul weather turns to foul play when Casey Feldstein and her yarn retreat guests are trapped by a storm with a killer in their midst . . .
When the perennially cloudy skies of Cadbury unleash a torrential downpour, yarn retreat host Casey Feldstein watches in dismay as the streets surrounding Vista Del Mar become flooded and she and her retreat guests are trapped there. But the storm is the least of their worries when a man is found dead in his room, and the guests begin to speculate that he may have been murdered. With the police unable to reach them, Casey is forced to fill their soggy shoes and investigate.
She’s quick to discover evidence pointing to foul play, but with the guests growing restless and suspicious, it’s everything Casey and the staff can do to keep them fed, distracted—and safe. Then another body is found, and as the weather finally begins to clear, Casey realizes she has to act fast before the killer makes a clean getaway. Because the culprit has tampered with the evidence and is tying up loose ends, and Casey fears she may be left high and dry—or drenched and dead . . .
My Opinion
This was the first book I have read in the Yarn Retreat Mystery series but I was able to enjoy it. Betty has written a bunch of interesting characters. This was an entertaining read with plenty to keep the reader guessing.
Rating 4/5
I received an advance review copy for free thanks to NetGalley and Beyond the Page Publishing and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Blurb
Foul weather turns to foul play when Casey Feldstein and her yarn retreat guests are trapped by a storm with a killer in their midst . . .
When the perennially cloudy skies of Cadbury unleash a torrential downpour, yarn retreat host Casey Feldstein watches in dismay as the streets surrounding Vista Del Mar become flooded and she and her retreat guests are trapped there. But the storm is the least of their worries when a man is found dead in his room, and the guests begin to speculate that he may have been murdered. With the police unable to reach them, Casey is forced to fill their soggy shoes and investigate.
She’s quick to discover evidence pointing to foul play, but with the guests growing restless and suspicious, it’s everything Casey and the staff can do to keep them fed, distracted—and safe. Then another body is found, and as the weather finally begins to clear, Casey realizes she has to act fast before the killer makes a clean getaway. Because the culprit has tampered with the evidence and is tying up loose ends, and Casey fears she may be left high and dry—or drenched and dead . . .
My Opinion
This was the first book I have read in the Yarn Retreat Mystery series but I was able to enjoy it. Betty has written a bunch of interesting characters. This was an entertaining read with plenty to keep the reader guessing.
Rating 4/5
May 14, 2024
I have to admit, I was pretty mad at Casey for assuming the worst about her and Dane’s relationship when she saw him with his high school girlfriend. I kept wondering how had it taken her ten books to not tell him how she felt before this, and now she’s jumping to conclusions. But by the time the book was ending, I forgave her for being close-minded and unwilling to talk with Dane. And maybe she realized that a guy who gives your spoiled cat the stinky old fish the cat likes seems like a real keeper to me lol.
That murder mystery had me guessing the entire time, the just when I was sure I knew... let’s just say the author’s a master of manipulation and I do mean that in a really good way. I really have more fun when I guess wrong and go “WOW!” when I read the reveal, which is just what happened with this book. The conclusion to the weekend was amazing and I have to believe that since weather was the reason the weekend was messed up and improvs had to be made, Casey’s fellow guests helped her come to a good decision. I was super happy with the very ending.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an ARC of this book provided by Beyond the Page publishing via NetGalley, and my opinions are my own.
That murder mystery had me guessing the entire time, the just when I was sure I knew... let’s just say the author’s a master of manipulation and I do mean that in a really good way. I really have more fun when I guess wrong and go “WOW!” when I read the reveal, which is just what happened with this book. The conclusion to the weekend was amazing and I have to believe that since weather was the reason the weekend was messed up and improvs had to be made, Casey’s fellow guests helped her come to a good decision. I was super happy with the very ending.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an ARC of this book provided by Beyond the Page publishing via NetGalley, and my opinions are my own.
May 13, 2024
I read a lot of cozy mysteries and every so often I come across one that I want to stay up all night reading. “Knot Dead Again”, the tenth book in Betty Hechtman’s Yarn Retreat Mystery cozy mystery series, was one of those books. Main character Casey Feldstein has inherited her aunt’s yarn retreat business which she runs out of a resort across the street from her house and in this book she and other guests at Vista Del Mar are trapped by torrential downpours that flood the streets to the extent that Casey can’t even get to her nearby house. As if that isn’t bad enough, one of the guests is found dead in his room and it may be murder. Since the police can’t get there, Casey has to investigate. I loved this whole story and quickly became wrapped up in the storyline and felt like I was working alongside Casey as she not only investigated the death, but tried to keep the guests occupied and fed. The mystery was well done with plenty of suspects – I thought for sure I had the killer figured out but I was totally wrong – very well done by Hechtman! All in all a nicely done cozy mystery.
I received a copy of this book from NetGalley.
I received a copy of this book from NetGalley.
October 26, 2024
This is book 10 in the Yarn Retreat series. Casey once again shows her PI skills by solving another murder. When the perennially cloudy skies of Cadbury unleash a torrential downpour, yarn retreat host Casey Feldstein watches in dismay as the streets surrounding Vista Del Mar become flooded and she and her retreat guests are trapped there. But the storm is the least of their worries when a man is found dead in his room, and the guests begin to speculate that he may have been murdered. With the police unable to reach them, Casey is forced to fill their soggy shoes and investigate.
She’s quick to discover evidence pointing to foul play, but with the guests growing restless and suspicious, it’s everything Casey and the staff can do to keep them fed, distracted—and safe. Then another body is found, and as the weather finally begins to clear, Casey realizes she has to act fast before the killer makes a clean getaway. Because the culprit has tampered with the evidence and is tying up loose ends, and Casey fears she may be left high and dry—or drenched and dead . . .
She’s quick to discover evidence pointing to foul play, but with the guests growing restless and suspicious, it’s everything Casey and the staff can do to keep them fed, distracted—and safe. Then another body is found, and as the weather finally begins to clear, Casey realizes she has to act fast before the killer makes a clean getaway. Because the culprit has tampered with the evidence and is tying up loose ends, and Casey fears she may be left high and dry—or drenched and dead . . .
June 17, 2025
The people of Cadbury are used to cloudy skies, but a rainy deluge catches them off guard. No one at Vista Del Mar thought the rain would strand them there, but that is exactly what happens. The resort is eventually surrounded by a moat of water and debris. And while they are waiting for the rain to stop and for heavy equipment to be brought in to move trees and cars, a tragedy strikes the inn. One of the guests dies. Casey and Sammy take charge of the situation, trying to keep guests calm. The situation is a stressful one, trying to feed guests with limited food and with little help, and to keep them occupied. And they may be stranded with a murderer on the premises. This novel really adds much to the continuing series. There is trouble in the romance department, too. Dane’s high school sweetheart is back in town, and Casey feels that she must leave town, not wanting to see her former boyfriend with someone else. Author Betty Hechtman really upped her game with this novel. I’m looking forward to the next one and to Casey’s next adventure.
May 4, 2024
Knot Dead Again is a fun "locked-room", cozy mystery with entertaining characters and a woodsy-camp setting. Casey is hosting another yarn retreat at Vista del Mar. Two other groups are scheduled for the same weekend. As hosts and guests start arriving, it soon becomes apparent that many of the attendees know each other (and not in the friendliest of manners). A terrible storm turns the first evening into a nightmare, as the guests realize that they are stranded at the lodge. Then, one of the hosts turns up murdered. Now, Casey is forced to find out who among the groups is the killer. And she must solve the mystery before someone else winds up dead.
Knot Dead Again is a cute cozy mystery that takes advantage of the popularity of the "locked-room" thriller. The characters are fun, and Vista del Mar totally reminds me of the camps I attended in my youth. The author does a great job with the setting, the characters, and the mystery. The ending was a bit anticlimactic; I wasn't overly surprised with the identity of the killer. However, overall, I enjoyed Knot Dead Again.
Knot Dead Again is a cute cozy mystery that takes advantage of the popularity of the "locked-room" thriller. The characters are fun, and Vista del Mar totally reminds me of the camps I attended in my youth. The author does a great job with the setting, the characters, and the mystery. The ending was a bit anticlimactic; I wasn't overly surprised with the identity of the killer. However, overall, I enjoyed Knot Dead Again.
April 22, 2025
This was a fun story in the Yarn Retreat Mystery series - it's actually #10. I haven't read all the books in the series, but it was not a problem for me to pick this up and read it as a standalone story.
The mystery was a good one, and I liked the various retreat goers personalities and how they all interacted with each other. In this story, three different retreats are being held at the lodge at the same time. Besides the yarn retreat, there is a "last diet you'll ever need" retreat and a getting un-stuck" retreat. These attendees couldn't be more different, however before things fully get underway, a torrential downpour occurs and the lodge is cut off from the town due to flooding and downed trees.
One of the presenters for the retreat is found dead - and Casey is the only person there to investigate. I look forward to more books in the series and catching up on the few I've missed.
The mystery was a good one, and I liked the various retreat goers personalities and how they all interacted with each other. In this story, three different retreats are being held at the lodge at the same time. Besides the yarn retreat, there is a "last diet you'll ever need" retreat and a getting un-stuck" retreat. These attendees couldn't be more different, however before things fully get underway, a torrential downpour occurs and the lodge is cut off from the town due to flooding and downed trees.
One of the presenters for the retreat is found dead - and Casey is the only person there to investigate. I look forward to more books in the series and catching up on the few I've missed.
May 10, 2024
I got this book from Net Galley in exchange for a fair review.
Our sleuth is in the doldrums. She saw her paramour in the arms of another woman, but she still has to run a yarn retreat. Her friend, a sheltered woman who co-owns the hotel, is hoping to reconnect with her writer sort of boyfriend. There are two other retreats, one for dieting, and one for psychological sessions at the hotel at the same time.
A rain storm hits, the hotel is cut off from civilization, and there is no wi-fi or cell service. The psychologist is offed. This is the first surprise, as I thought he'd be the culprit.
From there, it's a bunch of people dealing with boredom, fear, and an irascible malcontent who just bothers everybody.
Not as chilling as Agatha Christie, but a nice cozy mystery, with some real red herrings.
Our sleuth is in the doldrums. She saw her paramour in the arms of another woman, but she still has to run a yarn retreat. Her friend, a sheltered woman who co-owns the hotel, is hoping to reconnect with her writer sort of boyfriend. There are two other retreats, one for dieting, and one for psychological sessions at the hotel at the same time.
A rain storm hits, the hotel is cut off from civilization, and there is no wi-fi or cell service. The psychologist is offed. This is the first surprise, as I thought he'd be the culprit.
From there, it's a bunch of people dealing with boredom, fear, and an irascible malcontent who just bothers everybody.
Not as chilling as Agatha Christie, but a nice cozy mystery, with some real red herrings.
July 30, 2024
In book 10 of A Yarn Retreat mystery series we return to Vista Del Mar. Casey is hosting another yarn retreat, but before everyone can arrive, Vista Del Mar is surrounded by flood waters after torrential rainfall. They are not able to receive the food deliveries they were expecting so they have to be creative when it comes to meals. There are a couple of other retreats scheduled for the same weekend. One of the other retreat directors is found dead from heart issues, but as the weekend goes on, Casey and her friends begin to suspect foul play. The police can't get to the resort because of the floods so it is up to Casey and her friends to keep everyone happy and safe while preserving any evidence they can. When a second death occurs and the weather begins to clear up, Casey realizes that she needs to figure out who the killer is before the roads clear and the killer gets away. Can she discover the killer and keep everyone else including herself safe. I really enjoy Betty Hechtman's writing. Her stories are engaging and fun to read. I like getting to know the characters. I can't wait to read more to find out what happens next.
April 27, 2024
Casey is hosting her yarn retreat at Vista Del Mar and dealing with Dane’s ex-girlfriend being back in town…and in Dane’s life, apparently. There are other groups at the resort, but before everyone arrives, a heavy storm hits and the resort is cut off from the town. With no staff able to get to work, everyone must help out, especially Casey. First, a guest dies overnight, perhaps of a heart attack. Then, another death occurs and Casey is narrowing down the suspects.
This is a fun series with knitting, crocheting, and baking…a great combination. Casey is becoming part of the community and has made friends and may be putting down roots finally. The mystery is well-plotted and I was kept guessing until the end.
Thanks to Beyond the Page Publishing and NetGalley for the ARC.
This is a fun series with knitting, crocheting, and baking…a great combination. Casey is becoming part of the community and has made friends and may be putting down roots finally. The mystery is well-plotted and I was kept guessing until the end.
Thanks to Beyond the Page Publishing and NetGalley for the ARC.
May 3, 2024
Knot Dead Again by Betty Hechtman
Rating: 4/5
Casey Feldstein thought her yarn retreat would be just like any other, but when a mighty storm, dead body, and murderer are added into the mix, it throws her for a loop (get it?? Loop?!?) and subsequently, Casey finds herself and a few of the early arrival guests trapped… and so begins the closed-room mystery.
This book was an absolute page turned that kept me, as the reader, guessing right until the end. The characters and plot were both developed
If you’re looking for a cozy mystery, then this one is for you.
Thank you so much to NetGalley and Beyond the Page Publishing for providing me with an ARC copy in exchange for an honest and fair review.
Rating: 4/5
Casey Feldstein thought her yarn retreat would be just like any other, but when a mighty storm, dead body, and murderer are added into the mix, it throws her for a loop (get it?? Loop?!?) and subsequently, Casey finds herself and a few of the early arrival guests trapped… and so begins the closed-room mystery.
This book was an absolute page turned that kept me, as the reader, guessing right until the end. The characters and plot were both developed
If you’re looking for a cozy mystery, then this one is for you.
Thank you so much to NetGalley and Beyond the Page Publishing for providing me with an ARC copy in exchange for an honest and fair review.
May 15, 2024
Knot Dead Again is book #10 in the A Yarn Retreat Mystery series by Betty Hechtman.
A yarn retreat for crocheting sounds fun, until there is a terrible storm trapping everyone and then a man dies. I thought having the three retreats was a great way to bring in an assortment of characters into the story. I liked how there was actually crocheting in the book. Casey was able to get a taste of being a PI and also realize she can do more than bake. The mystery kept me guessing. I thought I’d figured it out, but I hadn’t. This was an entertaining book that has a crochet pattern and recipe at the end.
Thank you to the author, Beyond the Page Publishing, and NetGalley for the Advanced Reader Copy (ARC) copy of this book and I am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
A yarn retreat for crocheting sounds fun, until there is a terrible storm trapping everyone and then a man dies. I thought having the three retreats was a great way to bring in an assortment of characters into the story. I liked how there was actually crocheting in the book. Casey was able to get a taste of being a PI and also realize she can do more than bake. The mystery kept me guessing. I thought I’d figured it out, but I hadn’t. This was an entertaining book that has a crochet pattern and recipe at the end.
Thank you to the author, Beyond the Page Publishing, and NetGalley for the Advanced Reader Copy (ARC) copy of this book and I am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
May 20, 2024
When storms break loose and flood, the resort, everyone is stuck on the grounds. When a guest is murdered, Casey and the other do their best to keep everyone calm right a sense of security.
No access to anyone outside the resort, including the Police, everyone is truly stranded When a second guest turns up dead, Casey knows that she needs to put on her detecting hat and figure out who among them is a murderer. Casey isn’t about the killer walk free if she can do anything about it.
This is a great series and I read every single book as it comes out. With a smart and relatable protagonist, a cute and spoiled, rescue cat, there’s something in here for everyone in addition to a solid mission and each each and every entry.
No access to anyone outside the resort, including the Police, everyone is truly stranded When a second guest turns up dead, Casey knows that she needs to put on her detecting hat and figure out who among them is a murderer. Casey isn’t about the killer walk free if she can do anything about it.
This is a great series and I read every single book as it comes out. With a smart and relatable protagonist, a cute and spoiled, rescue cat, there’s something in here for everyone in addition to a solid mission and each each and every entry.
Read
March 29, 2025Casey has another yarn retreat. There are 2 other retreats. K. St John left for a conference. A big storm causes the Inn to be cut off. No one in or out. The food can't be delivered & most of the retreat people can't get in (even Mr St John). Then the leader of one group is found dead. Casey & Sammy store the corpse. Casey w/help prepares meals & tries to keep people occupied. Then the leader's wife is killed( def. murder!). Casey & her help must keep as much evidence as they can> This includes a dumpster dive for her! When help arrives, Casey trips the murderer before he can escape! The Lt says she "did good"
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 16, 2024
bad ending
The main plot line for the murder was very good. The ending with the romance was badly done. The writer totally glossed over that he cheated on her and failed to act remorseful and the heroine just accepted it like a doormat. There should have been remorse, true repentance, and an understanding that what he did was wrong. In so many ways. Not just the cheating but the failure to disclose it. Ultimately there could be forgiveness but not the way it was done. So much arrogance on his part.
The main plot line for the murder was very good. The ending with the romance was badly done. The writer totally glossed over that he cheated on her and failed to act remorseful and the heroine just accepted it like a doormat. There should have been remorse, true repentance, and an understanding that what he did was wrong. In so many ways. Not just the cheating but the failure to disclose it. Ultimately there could be forgiveness but not the way it was done. So much arrogance on his part.
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