What do you think?
Rate this book
Knitting Man: Don't Spill Blood on the Playa
It seemed like a great idea—a chance to get everyone back together and go to Burning Man.
Kaylee Wu and Elise Macdonald, owners of Knit Jam Knitting Boutique, reunite with their friends to create an art piece at the famous event. But whenever this group of adventuresome friends gather together, murder and mayhem are not far behind.
Bedlam from day one when the Morrison Treasure is set to go on display at the famous de Young Museum but is stolen, followed by two brutal murders on the Playa, all while an apparent serial killer is on the loose in the City by the Bay.
May Ling Chan will have her hands full as she searches for the puzzle pieces she needs to solve the murders while navigating bureaucracies in two states displeased with her LGBTQ lifestyle.
Kaylee Wu and Elise Macdonald, owners of Knit Jam Knitting Boutique, reunite with their friends to create an art piece at the famous event. But whenever this group of adventuresome friends gather together, murder and mayhem are not far behind.
Bedlam from day one when the Morrison Treasure is set to go on display at the famous de Young Museum but is stolen, followed by two brutal murders on the Playa, all while an apparent serial killer is on the loose in the City by the Bay.
May Ling Chan will have her hands full as she searches for the puzzle pieces she needs to solve the murders while navigating bureaucracies in two states displeased with her LGBTQ lifestyle.
280 pages, Paperback
Published September 17, 2024
2 people are currently reading
3 people want to read
About the author
Gary Thomas Edwards
6 books3 followersWriter, artist, and poet of cosmic paradoxes, quantum travel, and murder mystery...
Permanently attached to Lake Tahoe, California.
Permanently attached to Lake Tahoe, California.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 6 of 6 reviews
October 21, 2024
Craving a Good Mystery?
Ever wondered what happens when art, friendship, and murder collide? Knitting Man: Don’t Spill Blood on the Playa answers that question in the most thrilling way. From the very first page, you're pulled into a story of crime and creativity, set in one of the most unique locations—Burning Man.
What I loved most about this book was how each twist felt fresh. Just when you think you’ve solved it, another layer unfolds. The author’s writing is so friendly and easy to follow, making even complex plots feel accessible. You’re never left confused, only more intrigued.
If you're someone who enjoys fast-paced mysteries with a twist of art and culture, this is definitely a must-read. Grab your copy today—you won’t regret diving into this wild and suspenseful journey!
Ever wondered what happens when art, friendship, and murder collide? Knitting Man: Don’t Spill Blood on the Playa answers that question in the most thrilling way. From the very first page, you're pulled into a story of crime and creativity, set in one of the most unique locations—Burning Man.
What I loved most about this book was how each twist felt fresh. Just when you think you’ve solved it, another layer unfolds. The author’s writing is so friendly and easy to follow, making even complex plots feel accessible. You’re never left confused, only more intrigued.
If you're someone who enjoys fast-paced mysteries with a twist of art and culture, this is definitely a must-read. Grab your copy today—you won’t regret diving into this wild and suspenseful journey!
October 21, 2024
Looking for a Unique Adventure in a Book?
Have you ever wanted a mystery book that mixes culture, creativity, and a touch of danger? Knitting Man: Don’t Spill Blood on the Playa does just that. This story takes you on a wild ride through Burning Man with a group of friends who never seem far from trouble.
The book’s uniqueness comes from how art and crime are seamlessly blended. The writing is clear, engaging, and keeps the tension high without being overwhelming. What stood out most to me was the vivid setting and how the author made you feel like you were right there with the characters.
This is not your typical mystery—it's better. It’s fresh, fast-paced, and filled with surprising turns that will keep you hooked. Definitely a book worth adding to your collection today!
Have you ever wanted a mystery book that mixes culture, creativity, and a touch of danger? Knitting Man: Don’t Spill Blood on the Playa does just that. This story takes you on a wild ride through Burning Man with a group of friends who never seem far from trouble.
The book’s uniqueness comes from how art and crime are seamlessly blended. The writing is clear, engaging, and keeps the tension high without being overwhelming. What stood out most to me was the vivid setting and how the author made you feel like you were right there with the characters.
This is not your typical mystery—it's better. It’s fresh, fast-paced, and filled with surprising turns that will keep you hooked. Definitely a book worth adding to your collection today!
October 2, 2024
What would you do if your dream of going to Burning Man became a chaotic murder mystery?
That’s precisely what happens in Knitting Man: Don’t Spill Blood on the Playa by Gary Edwards. It combines the creative world of knitting and art with the adventure of Burning Man in a suspense-filled murder mystery.
This book is an absolutely gripping read.
The highlight I loved about it is how it effortlessly blends the calmness of the knitting world with high-paced crime-solving action. The storyline is packed with twists that keep you hooked until the very last page, and the surprising events unfold at Burning Man, adding a unique backdrop to the mystery.
The author has done an incredible job crafting a story that feels fresh and intriguing. The writing style is friendly, keeping you immersed in the plot without any confusing turns.
This book is a must read for anyone who enjoys a combination of thrillers, art, and mysteries. I found it to be an adventurous and entertaining journey that explores friendship, art, and danger in a creative setting. The pacing was spot on, making it impossible to put down.
The author's attention to detail and ability to create relatable yet eccentric characters is impressive. I can’t wait to read more books written by the author!
Overall, a thrilling and unique read.
That’s precisely what happens in Knitting Man: Don’t Spill Blood on the Playa by Gary Edwards. It combines the creative world of knitting and art with the adventure of Burning Man in a suspense-filled murder mystery.
This book is an absolutely gripping read.
The highlight I loved about it is how it effortlessly blends the calmness of the knitting world with high-paced crime-solving action. The storyline is packed with twists that keep you hooked until the very last page, and the surprising events unfold at Burning Man, adding a unique backdrop to the mystery.
The author has done an incredible job crafting a story that feels fresh and intriguing. The writing style is friendly, keeping you immersed in the plot without any confusing turns.
This book is a must read for anyone who enjoys a combination of thrillers, art, and mysteries. I found it to be an adventurous and entertaining journey that explores friendship, art, and danger in a creative setting. The pacing was spot on, making it impossible to put down.
The author's attention to detail and ability to create relatable yet eccentric characters is impressive. I can’t wait to read more books written by the author!
Overall, a thrilling and unique read.
November 6, 2024
Have you ever found yourself utterly absorbed in a hobby, only to imagine your calm, peaceful space suddenly disrupted by something wild and thrilling? That’s exactly where Knitting Man: Don’t Spill Blood on the Playa takes you—into a world where knitting and art collide with the electrifying chaos of Burning Man. Gary Thomas Edwards spins a story that feels like the perfect marriage of cozy and edgy. In his world, knitting isn’t just a pastime; it’s the gateway to unexpected, even dangerous adventures. Edwards has a way of luring readers into his worlds, places where the familiar turns beautifully (and sometimes terrifyingly) unfamiliar.
So here’s the setup: Kaylee Wu and Elise Macdonald, owners of Knit Jam Knitting Boutique, set off for Burning Man, that iconic festival in the Nevada desert. Their plan? A simple reunion with friends to create an art installation—a perfect escape from their everyday lives. But things take a dark twist when a treasured artifact goes missing, and suddenly, the dusty, artistic world of Burning Man is tainted by murder. Two brutal deaths rock the Playa, and the stakes soar when it’s revealed that a serial killer may be on the loose back in San Francisco. Enter investigator May Ling Chan, who not only has to unravel this sinister mess but also navigate the challenges of being an LGBTQ detective in a world that’s far from accepting. Edwards brilliantly uses this setting to elevate the story, making it more than your average mystery novel.
Reading Edwards’ writing feels like chatting with a friend who tells a really good story. His prose is straightforward and vivid, painting the wild Playa scenes so you can almost feel the desert heat and see the art installations glittering in the sun. But there’s something wonderfully grounded here too—moments of humor and warmth that balance out the intense, suspenseful elements. And the way he interweaves calm, familiar scenes with sudden twists? It’s like watching your favorite cozy blanket get pulled off, revealing something unexpected underneath.
Edwards’ characters are more than just faces on a page—they’re people you feel you could meet, with quirks, dreams, and flaws that make them real. Kaylee and Elise are the creative souls you can’t help but root for, and their friendship is that rare gem: genuine, complex, and inspiring. And then there’s May Ling Chan, whose determination to solve the case while confronting societal prejudice makes her a compelling lead. She’s tough, relatable, and her journey adds depth, tackling issues that resonate well beyond the book. Edwards weaves in themes of resilience, creativity, and belonging—giving this “whodunit” an emotional core that’s as rich as its mystery.
This story is an absolute rollercoaster, but it’s paced just right—each twist builds the tension without feeling rushed. Edwards cleverly alternates between the sun-soaked chaos of Burning Man and the shadowy alleys of San Francisco, keeping readers on their toes. It’s like getting two mysteries for the price of one, each revealing more layers as the story progresses. There’s just the right amount of suspense, with enough moments to pause and breathe, keeping you invested from beginning to end.
Beneath the intrigue and suspense, Knitting Man delves into themes that feel intensely real—resilience in the face of adversity, the power of friendship, and the courage to stay true to oneself. May Ling’s story is especially poignant, as she faces bias and prejudice, and her journey adds an emotional depth that elevates the book beyond a simple mystery. Edwards doesn’t shout these themes; instead, he lets them subtly unfold, making them all the more impactful.
Knitting Man takes you on an emotional journey—one moment you’re laughing at the quirks of the festival, and the next, you’re caught in the tension of a murder investigation. It’s a book that isn’t afraid to get emotional, whether it’s the camaraderie of Kaylee and Elise or the intensity of May Ling’s search for justice. You’re left feeling like you’ve been through a whirlwind with these characters, rooting for them until the very end.
The book’s greatest strengths lie in its imaginative setting and memorable characters. Edwards has crafted a world that’s colorful and gritty all at once, and the Playa scenes are so vivid, you can almost feel the festival energy. The characters are beautifully crafted—imperfect, relatable, and driven by desires that make them incredibly real. And of course, the mystery itself is skillfully handled, keeping you hooked until the final reveal.
For some readers, the fusion of knitting, art, and crime may take a bit of getting used to—it’s an unusual mix, and those more accustomed to traditional mysteries might find it quirky. The dual setting, alternating between Burning Man and San Francisco, is engaging but at times could feel slightly disjointed. A bit more integration might have enhanced the flow.
I found Knitting Man refreshingly original and engaging. As someone who loves both the artsy and the mysterious, I connected with this story on multiple levels. It’s not just a murder mystery; it’s a celebration of friendship, identity, and creativity, with characters you come to care about. Edwards’ ability to blend suspense and warmth is rare, and it made this book a truly enjoyable read.
Knitting Man: Don’t Spill Blood on the Playa is more than just a mystery—it’s a unique experience that’s thrilling, heartfelt, and utterly unpredictable. With a cast of endearing characters and an unconventional setting, it’s a book that keeps you guessing and leaves you thinking. If you’re looking for a mystery with creativity, depth, and a splash of the unexpected, this one is well worth the read.
So here’s the setup: Kaylee Wu and Elise Macdonald, owners of Knit Jam Knitting Boutique, set off for Burning Man, that iconic festival in the Nevada desert. Their plan? A simple reunion with friends to create an art installation—a perfect escape from their everyday lives. But things take a dark twist when a treasured artifact goes missing, and suddenly, the dusty, artistic world of Burning Man is tainted by murder. Two brutal deaths rock the Playa, and the stakes soar when it’s revealed that a serial killer may be on the loose back in San Francisco. Enter investigator May Ling Chan, who not only has to unravel this sinister mess but also navigate the challenges of being an LGBTQ detective in a world that’s far from accepting. Edwards brilliantly uses this setting to elevate the story, making it more than your average mystery novel.
Reading Edwards’ writing feels like chatting with a friend who tells a really good story. His prose is straightforward and vivid, painting the wild Playa scenes so you can almost feel the desert heat and see the art installations glittering in the sun. But there’s something wonderfully grounded here too—moments of humor and warmth that balance out the intense, suspenseful elements. And the way he interweaves calm, familiar scenes with sudden twists? It’s like watching your favorite cozy blanket get pulled off, revealing something unexpected underneath.
Edwards’ characters are more than just faces on a page—they’re people you feel you could meet, with quirks, dreams, and flaws that make them real. Kaylee and Elise are the creative souls you can’t help but root for, and their friendship is that rare gem: genuine, complex, and inspiring. And then there’s May Ling Chan, whose determination to solve the case while confronting societal prejudice makes her a compelling lead. She’s tough, relatable, and her journey adds depth, tackling issues that resonate well beyond the book. Edwards weaves in themes of resilience, creativity, and belonging—giving this “whodunit” an emotional core that’s as rich as its mystery.
This story is an absolute rollercoaster, but it’s paced just right—each twist builds the tension without feeling rushed. Edwards cleverly alternates between the sun-soaked chaos of Burning Man and the shadowy alleys of San Francisco, keeping readers on their toes. It’s like getting two mysteries for the price of one, each revealing more layers as the story progresses. There’s just the right amount of suspense, with enough moments to pause and breathe, keeping you invested from beginning to end.
Beneath the intrigue and suspense, Knitting Man delves into themes that feel intensely real—resilience in the face of adversity, the power of friendship, and the courage to stay true to oneself. May Ling’s story is especially poignant, as she faces bias and prejudice, and her journey adds an emotional depth that elevates the book beyond a simple mystery. Edwards doesn’t shout these themes; instead, he lets them subtly unfold, making them all the more impactful.
Knitting Man takes you on an emotional journey—one moment you’re laughing at the quirks of the festival, and the next, you’re caught in the tension of a murder investigation. It’s a book that isn’t afraid to get emotional, whether it’s the camaraderie of Kaylee and Elise or the intensity of May Ling’s search for justice. You’re left feeling like you’ve been through a whirlwind with these characters, rooting for them until the very end.
The book’s greatest strengths lie in its imaginative setting and memorable characters. Edwards has crafted a world that’s colorful and gritty all at once, and the Playa scenes are so vivid, you can almost feel the festival energy. The characters are beautifully crafted—imperfect, relatable, and driven by desires that make them incredibly real. And of course, the mystery itself is skillfully handled, keeping you hooked until the final reveal.
For some readers, the fusion of knitting, art, and crime may take a bit of getting used to—it’s an unusual mix, and those more accustomed to traditional mysteries might find it quirky. The dual setting, alternating between Burning Man and San Francisco, is engaging but at times could feel slightly disjointed. A bit more integration might have enhanced the flow.
I found Knitting Man refreshingly original and engaging. As someone who loves both the artsy and the mysterious, I connected with this story on multiple levels. It’s not just a murder mystery; it’s a celebration of friendship, identity, and creativity, with characters you come to care about. Edwards’ ability to blend suspense and warmth is rare, and it made this book a truly enjoyable read.
Knitting Man: Don’t Spill Blood on the Playa is more than just a mystery—it’s a unique experience that’s thrilling, heartfelt, and utterly unpredictable. With a cast of endearing characters and an unconventional setting, it’s a book that keeps you guessing and leaves you thinking. If you’re looking for a mystery with creativity, depth, and a splash of the unexpected, this one is well worth the read.
October 21, 2024
Looking for a Gripping, Unique Read?
Have you ever picked up a book that you just couldn’t put down? Knitting Man: Don’t Spill Blood on the Playa has exactly that effect. This book is not just a mystery—it's an adventure that keeps you guessing from start to finish. Set against the backdrop of Burning Man, it mixes art, crime, and a group of quirky friends who can’t escape chaos.
What makes this book stand out is the way the author blends a creative setting like Burning Man with a gripping mystery. The plot twists come at you fast, making it nearly impossible to stop reading. The writing is simple yet powerful, pulling you into the action with ease.
If you’re after a book that’s not only well-written but keeps you entertained with its twists, then this is the one for you. It’s the kind of book that sticks with you long after you've finished!
Have you ever picked up a book that you just couldn’t put down? Knitting Man: Don’t Spill Blood on the Playa has exactly that effect. This book is not just a mystery—it's an adventure that keeps you guessing from start to finish. Set against the backdrop of Burning Man, it mixes art, crime, and a group of quirky friends who can’t escape chaos.
What makes this book stand out is the way the author blends a creative setting like Burning Man with a gripping mystery. The plot twists come at you fast, making it nearly impossible to stop reading. The writing is simple yet powerful, pulling you into the action with ease.
If you’re after a book that’s not only well-written but keeps you entertained with its twists, then this is the one for you. It’s the kind of book that sticks with you long after you've finished!
October 22, 2024
Ready for a Fresh, Fast-Paced Mystery?
Ever had a book pull you in so quickly you lost track of time? That’s exactly what happens when you start reading Knitting Man: Don’t Spill Blood on the Playa. With its Burning Man backdrop, art heist, and mysterious murders, this story offers something new and exciting for fans of the mystery genre.
The book’s greatest strength lies in how it’s written—simple, engaging, and never too complicated to follow. I loved how the action unfolded naturally, keeping the pace fast while still letting the characters and story develop in a way that felt just right. It’s a real page-turner.
If you’re in search of a mystery that offers more than just a typical plot, then this is the book for you. Pick it up today, and let yourself be drawn into the fun and suspense!
Ever had a book pull you in so quickly you lost track of time? That’s exactly what happens when you start reading Knitting Man: Don’t Spill Blood on the Playa. With its Burning Man backdrop, art heist, and mysterious murders, this story offers something new and exciting for fans of the mystery genre.
The book’s greatest strength lies in how it’s written—simple, engaging, and never too complicated to follow. I loved how the action unfolded naturally, keeping the pace fast while still letting the characters and story develop in a way that felt just right. It’s a real page-turner.
If you’re in search of a mystery that offers more than just a typical plot, then this is the book for you. Pick it up today, and let yourself be drawn into the fun and suspense!
Displaying 1 - 6 of 6 reviews