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Seaside Knitters Society #8
Gull & Bones
The sugar maples are beginning to turn, and the seasonal visitors have closed up their cottages—one more summer has been thoroughly packed away. But the residents of Sea Harbor, Massachusetts, have a celebration to look forward to, until a killer calls sudden death . . .
Long-time resident Angus McPherron has a very special birthday coming up—his 100th! Known as the “old man of the sea” by Sea Harbor residents, he’s lived in town all his long life and has shared plenty of colorful tales of the area.
Back in town to fill a much-needed nursing position at the free clinic, Charlie Chambers, Izzy Perry’s brother, is staying in one of the handful of cottages Angus owns. The yarn shop owner is thrilled he’s in town—though she’d like to know more about his mysterious roommate, Annie Smith. Still, she’s grateful that each morning Charlie checks Angus’s vitals and makes sure he takes his meds.
Meanwhile, Izzy and the other Seaside Knitters are busy planning Angus’s birthday bash, knitting his beloved gulls into everything they make. With bands rehearsing and the menu set, Angus’s celebration promises to be unforgettable. But the day before, when Charlie stops by Angus’s cottage, he finds the old man has died in his sleep. Shocked and saddened, the town decides to go ahead with the festivities, which will now become a celebration of the old man’s life.
But when Angus’s closest friend, Father Northcutt, is found on the floor of Angus’s cottage, unconscious from a deadly blow to his head, Angus’s death is examined more closely, and soon is a suspected homicide. As the knitters delve into Angus’s history, more questions than answers surface. Soon the whole community is concerned over what now looks like murder, a tragedy buried deep in a shameful chapter in Sea Harbor’s past. And one that may point to a killer still in their midst . . .
Long-time resident Angus McPherron has a very special birthday coming up—his 100th! Known as the “old man of the sea” by Sea Harbor residents, he’s lived in town all his long life and has shared plenty of colorful tales of the area.
Back in town to fill a much-needed nursing position at the free clinic, Charlie Chambers, Izzy Perry’s brother, is staying in one of the handful of cottages Angus owns. The yarn shop owner is thrilled he’s in town—though she’d like to know more about his mysterious roommate, Annie Smith. Still, she’s grateful that each morning Charlie checks Angus’s vitals and makes sure he takes his meds.
Meanwhile, Izzy and the other Seaside Knitters are busy planning Angus’s birthday bash, knitting his beloved gulls into everything they make. With bands rehearsing and the menu set, Angus’s celebration promises to be unforgettable. But the day before, when Charlie stops by Angus’s cottage, he finds the old man has died in his sleep. Shocked and saddened, the town decides to go ahead with the festivities, which will now become a celebration of the old man’s life.
But when Angus’s closest friend, Father Northcutt, is found on the floor of Angus’s cottage, unconscious from a deadly blow to his head, Angus’s death is examined more closely, and soon is a suspected homicide. As the knitters delve into Angus’s history, more questions than answers surface. Soon the whole community is concerned over what now looks like murder, a tragedy buried deep in a shameful chapter in Sea Harbor’s past. And one that may point to a killer still in their midst . . .
- GenresMysteryCozy MysteryCozy
353 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 25, 2025
117 people are currently reading
4151 people want to read
About the author
Sally Goldenbaum
38 books913 followersSally Goldenbaum is a philosophy teacher, knitter, editor, and the author of more than two-dozen novels.
Series:
* A Seaside Knitters Mystery
*
Series:
* A Seaside Knitters Mystery
*
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 56 reviews
November 22, 2025
Book eight in the Seaside Knitters Society series and I probably should not have tried to join the series so late especially since the regular readers seem to like this one less than the earlier books.
The Seaside Knitters are busy preparing for Angus McPherrons's one hundredth birthday when he is found dead in his bed. The town decide to turn his birthday celebrations into a wake but then Father Northcutt is found severely wounded in Angus's house suspicions arise of murder. Sounds exciting? Yes but sadly it was not.
The book turned out to tend towards chat and gossip and the setting rather than murder and mystery. There were so many characters with so much to say that I was overwhelmed. I have to admit to being bored. Just three stars for the excellent writing and the clever ideas.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book.
The Seaside Knitters are busy preparing for Angus McPherrons's one hundredth birthday when he is found dead in his bed. The town decide to turn his birthday celebrations into a wake but then Father Northcutt is found severely wounded in Angus's house suspicions arise of murder. Sounds exciting? Yes but sadly it was not.
The book turned out to tend towards chat and gossip and the setting rather than murder and mystery. There were so many characters with so much to say that I was overwhelmed. I have to admit to being bored. Just three stars for the excellent writing and the clever ideas.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book.
October 22, 2025
In the charming town of Sea Harbor, the popular resident Angus McPherron is about to turn 100, and the Seaside Knitters are planning a grand celebration. When Angus is discovered dead before the big day, the town is in mourning. The situation takes a darker turn when his close friend, Father Northcutt, is found bludgeoned unconscious in Angus’ cottage. Further investigation reveals that Angus had been poisoned, leaving the town in shock and disbelief.
Who would have done that to Angus? Could it be the enigmatic
Annie who suddenly appeared in town, took a liking to Angus, and enjoyed brewing him special tea? Or is there another culprit lurking in the shadows?
This is the eighth in the Seaside Knitters series. It is the first I have read. Although it did work as a standalone, I think it would have helped to have read some prior installments to provide more familiarity with the characters.
There are a lot of characters to keep track of in this book. There is also a lot of chitchat among them that seems to go on and on, and I think sometimes my eyes glazed over reading it. The emphasis in the book is more on the interaction among the townspeople than the actual mystery.
Readers who like cozy small-town tales will enjoy this. For others, it may not be quite your cup of tea, which, yes, is a reference to the story!!!!!
There is a knitting pattern and a recipe included at the end of the book for readers’ further entertainment and perhaps inspiration.
Thanks to @Netgalley and @kensingtonBooks and #KensingtonCozies for the DRC.
Who would have done that to Angus? Could it be the enigmatic
Annie who suddenly appeared in town, took a liking to Angus, and enjoyed brewing him special tea? Or is there another culprit lurking in the shadows?
This is the eighth in the Seaside Knitters series. It is the first I have read. Although it did work as a standalone, I think it would have helped to have read some prior installments to provide more familiarity with the characters.
There are a lot of characters to keep track of in this book. There is also a lot of chitchat among them that seems to go on and on, and I think sometimes my eyes glazed over reading it. The emphasis in the book is more on the interaction among the townspeople than the actual mystery.
Readers who like cozy small-town tales will enjoy this. For others, it may not be quite your cup of tea, which, yes, is a reference to the story!!!!!
There is a knitting pattern and a recipe included at the end of the book for readers’ further entertainment and perhaps inspiration.
Thanks to @Netgalley and @kensingtonBooks and #KensingtonCozies for the DRC.
December 15, 2025
I would have given Sally Goldenbaum’s newly-published mystery, Gull and Bones, a 4-star rating had it not been for the NUMEROUS typos and other errors throughout the ebook which ruined my reading experience. I have read and enjoyed all of the author’s previous Seaside Knitters Society mysteries but this one seemed as if a proofreader neglected the book and the many errors became annoying. I sincerely hope the print edition had a better proofreader.
December 7, 2025
Dollycas’s Thoughts
Sea Harbor will be quieter now that the seasonal visitors have closed up their cottages for the year. But the year-round residents will be making plenty of noise to celebrate Angus McPherron’s, aka “old man of the sea,” 100th birthday. The man has lived in Sea Harbor his whole life and has plenty of stories to tell. This party has been in the works for quite a while, with the Seaside Knitters taking the lead. Everyone is looking forward to it.
Izzy’s brother, Charlie Chambers, has come back to town to fill a nursing position at the free clinic. He is staying in a cabin owned by Angus and has acquired a roommate, Annie Smith. They check on Angus daily. Annie is a mystery, though.
Sadly, when Charlie arrives the day before the birthday celebration to check on Angus, he finds he has died during the night. The entire town is mourning the loss, and after much thought and discussion, they decided to hold the planned event and celebrate Angus’ life.
When one of Angus’s friends is found unconscious in Angus’s cabin, it leads to questions about Angus’s death. Did his life end at someone else’s hand? The Seaside Knitters are determined to find out.
This is the 8th book from this publisher, but there are 11 previous books from another publisher. I have been with the main characters from the start, and I am always happy to return to Sea Harbor to catch up with my fictional friends. They are such a fun group of people, always willing to help anyone in need. Over the years, the core group has stuck together, but we meet new people in each story. It tests me to think if Angus was mentioned in an early story, but I really enjoy meeting him here. Unique and quirky with his friends, the gulls. He had an interesting tradition that I really appreciated.
The mystery of Angus’s death was complicated and unfolded slowly at first to get all the new characters introduced, but the pace soon picked up. There were more suspects than I imagined at the start. The Knitters needed to go back in time, check out the history, and then had to methodically go through every clue and piece of evidence. I enjoyed being with them every step of the way. I was happy with the way the killer was apprehended, because it could have ended badly.
Gull & Bones was another wonderful mystery from Ms. Goldenbaum. Set on the scenic Massachusetts coast, with fabulous characters and an intriguing mystery, my latest visit to Sea Harbor was another Perfect Escape. For readers new to this series, the author provides a list of the characters and how they fit together before the story starts. For fans of this series, you will have a fantastic time catching up with Birdie, Cass, Nell, and Izzy and all their friends and family.
*Knitting pattern for an AS-YOU-LIKE IT PONCHO and a Spinach and Feta Pie recipe are included after the story.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review. Thank you to Kensington Cozies and NetGalley for providing me with an ARC.
Sea Harbor will be quieter now that the seasonal visitors have closed up their cottages for the year. But the year-round residents will be making plenty of noise to celebrate Angus McPherron’s, aka “old man of the sea,” 100th birthday. The man has lived in Sea Harbor his whole life and has plenty of stories to tell. This party has been in the works for quite a while, with the Seaside Knitters taking the lead. Everyone is looking forward to it.
Izzy’s brother, Charlie Chambers, has come back to town to fill a nursing position at the free clinic. He is staying in a cabin owned by Angus and has acquired a roommate, Annie Smith. They check on Angus daily. Annie is a mystery, though.
Sadly, when Charlie arrives the day before the birthday celebration to check on Angus, he finds he has died during the night. The entire town is mourning the loss, and after much thought and discussion, they decided to hold the planned event and celebrate Angus’ life.
When one of Angus’s friends is found unconscious in Angus’s cabin, it leads to questions about Angus’s death. Did his life end at someone else’s hand? The Seaside Knitters are determined to find out.
This is the 8th book from this publisher, but there are 11 previous books from another publisher. I have been with the main characters from the start, and I am always happy to return to Sea Harbor to catch up with my fictional friends. They are such a fun group of people, always willing to help anyone in need. Over the years, the core group has stuck together, but we meet new people in each story. It tests me to think if Angus was mentioned in an early story, but I really enjoy meeting him here. Unique and quirky with his friends, the gulls. He had an interesting tradition that I really appreciated.
The mystery of Angus’s death was complicated and unfolded slowly at first to get all the new characters introduced, but the pace soon picked up. There were more suspects than I imagined at the start. The Knitters needed to go back in time, check out the history, and then had to methodically go through every clue and piece of evidence. I enjoyed being with them every step of the way. I was happy with the way the killer was apprehended, because it could have ended badly.
Gull & Bones was another wonderful mystery from Ms. Goldenbaum. Set on the scenic Massachusetts coast, with fabulous characters and an intriguing mystery, my latest visit to Sea Harbor was another Perfect Escape. For readers new to this series, the author provides a list of the characters and how they fit together before the story starts. For fans of this series, you will have a fantastic time catching up with Birdie, Cass, Nell, and Izzy and all their friends and family.
*Knitting pattern for an AS-YOU-LIKE IT PONCHO and a Spinach and Feta Pie recipe are included after the story.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review. Thank you to Kensington Cozies and NetGalley for providing me with an ARC.
August 18, 2025
Turning a hundred is a big deal, and if you are as loved and venerated as Angus McPherron, then the celebrations are going to be spectacular! Having lived in Sea Harbor his entire life the 'old man of the sea', as he is universally known, is familiar with everyone and, following the tragic death of his young wife decades earlier, considers most of the town family. When a sudden death and unexpected serious assault change the focus of the townspeople and the party, the Seaside Knitters, Birdie Favazza, Cass Haloran Brandley, Izzy Chambers Perry, and Nell Endicott, feel obligated to try and work out what happened. With a newcomer to the area who seems both strongly linked to the victim and almost too good to be true, old friends who may well have old grudges to banish, and a cleaner with an unhealthy obsession, all in the frame the four friends know they have their work cut out. Somehow though without a resolution, no one in Sea § thinks the town will recover from its latest tragedy.
I was able to read an advanced copy of this thanks to NetGalley and the publishers, Kensington Publishing, Kensington Cozies, but the opinions expressed are my own. Book eight in this much anticipated cozy series is a complex but very satisfying read. The everyday life in Sea Harbor continues alongside the murder investigation, injecting the familiarity regular readers will recognise as the second mainstay of this set of books alongside the tenacious investigating skills of the four close friends. With a knitting pattern and a recipe included at the end, this comes highly recommended.
I was able to read an advanced copy of this thanks to NetGalley and the publishers, Kensington Publishing, Kensington Cozies, but the opinions expressed are my own. Book eight in this much anticipated cozy series is a complex but very satisfying read. The everyday life in Sea Harbor continues alongside the murder investigation, injecting the familiarity regular readers will recognise as the second mainstay of this set of books alongside the tenacious investigating skills of the four close friends. With a knitting pattern and a recipe included at the end, this comes highly recommended.
January 10, 2026
I liked the book but it had a lot of spelling errors. They need a better proofreader.
January 4, 2026
good story as always
This is a review of the Kindle Edition. As said, always a good mystery with friendships abounding. I enjoy the stories, the mysteries and I love the friendships of very different people. The only reason I'm giving it 3 stars instead of 4 was due to number of errors I found; typos, wrong words, missing words. I found somewhere between 10 and 15 I believe, I didn't keep count, but I did use the report option in my kindle. For a book I paid almost $10 for I would expect better editing and proofreading. My detail oriented brain gets sidetracked from the story when I run across an error.
This is a review of the Kindle Edition. As said, always a good mystery with friendships abounding. I enjoy the stories, the mysteries and I love the friendships of very different people. The only reason I'm giving it 3 stars instead of 4 was due to number of errors I found; typos, wrong words, missing words. I found somewhere between 10 and 15 I believe, I didn't keep count, but I did use the report option in my kindle. For a book I paid almost $10 for I would expect better editing and proofreading. My detail oriented brain gets sidetracked from the story when I run across an error.
November 15, 2025
Gull and Bones is book 8 in the Seaside Knitters Society series by Salley Goldenbaum. Even though this is book 8, I feel that it could be read as a standalone novel, although the number of characters may be overwhelming for a reader who is new to the series.
I don't know if it's because I haven't read any of the previous books in the series, but for some reason the story didn't grab me from the beginning, and it really didn't improve much from there for me.
The story begins as residents of Sea Harbor, Massachusetts are planning to celebrate the 100th birthday of long-time resident Angus McPherron, the man some call the old man of the sea. Angus is found dead just a few days before his birthday, and at first his death is believed to be a natural one, until another man is attacked and the police look more closely at Angus's death.
This sounded like a really interesting mystery, but it fell flat for me. Other than the fact that Angus's killer was unknown, this didn't feel like a typical mystery to me. I felt like there was very little actual investigation, just people spreading gossip and jumping to conclusions.
A very large portion of the book was spent with residents just reminiscing about their memories of Angus, which was nice, but felt out of place in a mystery novel.
My other problem with this was the large cast of characters, and the multiple points of view the novel was written from. I don't mind a novel with a large cast of characters, or even multiple points of view, but in this case I had a hard time determining, or remembering, which point of view I was reading from, because the voice of each of the characters felt the same to me. For me, it made the book much less enjoyable than if the author had focussed on one main character's point of view.
For me Gull and Bones was just an okay read, although if you like your mysteries to have a strong sense of community, you may enjoy this one.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I don't know if it's because I haven't read any of the previous books in the series, but for some reason the story didn't grab me from the beginning, and it really didn't improve much from there for me.
The story begins as residents of Sea Harbor, Massachusetts are planning to celebrate the 100th birthday of long-time resident Angus McPherron, the man some call the old man of the sea. Angus is found dead just a few days before his birthday, and at first his death is believed to be a natural one, until another man is attacked and the police look more closely at Angus's death.
This sounded like a really interesting mystery, but it fell flat for me. Other than the fact that Angus's killer was unknown, this didn't feel like a typical mystery to me. I felt like there was very little actual investigation, just people spreading gossip and jumping to conclusions.
A very large portion of the book was spent with residents just reminiscing about their memories of Angus, which was nice, but felt out of place in a mystery novel.
My other problem with this was the large cast of characters, and the multiple points of view the novel was written from. I don't mind a novel with a large cast of characters, or even multiple points of view, but in this case I had a hard time determining, or remembering, which point of view I was reading from, because the voice of each of the characters felt the same to me. For me, it made the book much less enjoyable than if the author had focussed on one main character's point of view.
For me Gull and Bones was just an okay read, although if you like your mysteries to have a strong sense of community, you may enjoy this one.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
November 10, 2025
⭐⭐⭐
Sally Goldenbaum returns with another comforting visit to Sea Harbor in Gull & Bones, the eighth installment of the Seaside Knitters Society series. This time, what begins as preparations for beloved centenarian Angus McPherron's 100th birthday celebration quickly turns dark when he's found dead, followed by an attack on his dear friend Father Northcutt.
What I appreciated most about this book was how Goldenbaum captures that bittersweet early autumn feeling in a coastal New England town as summer visitors depart and locals settle in for the changing season. The mystery itself centers on uncovering secrets from Angus's long life and Sea Harbor's past, which adds interesting historical depth to the story. There's also an intriguing subplot involving Izzy's brother Charlie and his mysterious roommate Annie.
The mystery unfolds at a gentle pace as the knitters investigate what really happened to Angus. While I found the resolution satisfying, I did feel the pacing lagged a bit in the middle sections. The book shines brightest in its portrayal of community grief and how the town comes together, transforming a birthday celebration into a memorial.
If you're a longtime fan of the series, you'll enjoy catching up with Izzy and the knitters. For newcomers, you might want to start earlier in the series to fully appreciate the relationships and town dynamics. A solid cozy mystery perfect for a quiet afternoon.
Thank you to Kensington Cozies for the ARC!
#GullAndBones #SeasideKnittersSociety #SallyGoldenbaum #CozyMystery #MysteryBooks #BookReview #KensingtonCozies #BookstagramCommunity #MysteryReader #CozyCommunity #BookReviewer #MysteryBookReview #CozyMysteryBooks #ARCReview #BookBlogger #Bookstagram #MysteryLovers #BookRecommendations #WhatToRead #BookNerd #ReadingCommunity #MysteryAddict #CozyReads #NewRelease #BookRelease #InstaBooks #AmReading #BookishCommunity #BookReviewsOfInstagram #MysteryFiction
Sally Goldenbaum returns with another comforting visit to Sea Harbor in Gull & Bones, the eighth installment of the Seaside Knitters Society series. This time, what begins as preparations for beloved centenarian Angus McPherron's 100th birthday celebration quickly turns dark when he's found dead, followed by an attack on his dear friend Father Northcutt.
What I appreciated most about this book was how Goldenbaum captures that bittersweet early autumn feeling in a coastal New England town as summer visitors depart and locals settle in for the changing season. The mystery itself centers on uncovering secrets from Angus's long life and Sea Harbor's past, which adds interesting historical depth to the story. There's also an intriguing subplot involving Izzy's brother Charlie and his mysterious roommate Annie.
The mystery unfolds at a gentle pace as the knitters investigate what really happened to Angus. While I found the resolution satisfying, I did feel the pacing lagged a bit in the middle sections. The book shines brightest in its portrayal of community grief and how the town comes together, transforming a birthday celebration into a memorial.
If you're a longtime fan of the series, you'll enjoy catching up with Izzy and the knitters. For newcomers, you might want to start earlier in the series to fully appreciate the relationships and town dynamics. A solid cozy mystery perfect for a quiet afternoon.
Thank you to Kensington Cozies for the ARC!
#GullAndBones #SeasideKnittersSociety #SallyGoldenbaum #CozyMystery #MysteryBooks #BookReview #KensingtonCozies #BookstagramCommunity #MysteryReader #CozyCommunity #BookReviewer #MysteryBookReview #CozyMysteryBooks #ARCReview #BookBlogger #Bookstagram #MysteryLovers #BookRecommendations #WhatToRead #BookNerd #ReadingCommunity #MysteryAddict #CozyReads #NewRelease #BookRelease #InstaBooks #AmReading #BookishCommunity #BookReviewsOfInstagram #MysteryFiction
December 6, 2025
Angus is going to turn 100 and all of Sea Harbour is going to celebrate with him. He is a beloved man whose generosity and kindness have been a mainstay in the community. When he dies just before his party, the town is overwhelmed with grief. When they learn he was murdered, they are gobsmacked. Who would do such a thing? And then who would attack and seriously injure one of Angus’ dearest friends? The local police are dumbfounded. It appears to be so senseless but as Izzy and her friends learn more about Angus, his past and his plans for the future after he is gone, they begin to uncover possibilities.
Family consists of those to whom we are related but it also involves those with whom we choose to love. Sea Harbour is a community that is more like a family than a town. This larger “family” is just like any other. There are ups and downs and sometimes there are people added to the group.
There are so many emotions amongst the closest to Angus as well as a newcomer to town who connects with Angus in a profound way. There is a lovely story that is not revealed until the end that fleshes out the relationship. It took a while for the story to get traction but once it did, it was very satisfying. The characters are such interesting people and so caring. It is a feel-good read. And don’t we all need more of those. Four purrs and two paws up.
Family consists of those to whom we are related but it also involves those with whom we choose to love. Sea Harbour is a community that is more like a family than a town. This larger “family” is just like any other. There are ups and downs and sometimes there are people added to the group.
There are so many emotions amongst the closest to Angus as well as a newcomer to town who connects with Angus in a profound way. There is a lovely story that is not revealed until the end that fleshes out the relationship. It took a while for the story to get traction but once it did, it was very satisfying. The characters are such interesting people and so caring. It is a feel-good read. And don’t we all need more of those. Four purrs and two paws up.
November 12, 2025
Angus is about to be 100 and the town is having a big birthday party. His best friend Reverend Lawrence Northcutt is visiting him on his deck. Annie is a young woman who is new to Sea Harbour and has been very attentive to Angus. Birdie and Nell also visit Angus regularly. However, the morning before Angus' birthday he is found dead in his bed , apparently having died peacefully in his sleep. However, many of his friends don't believe it. He was in good shape the night before. They all agree to carry on with the party in Angus' honor, and the party is a big success. However, when Angus' best friend the Reverend is found dead on the floor near Angus' back door with a blow to his head. Now folks aren't as sure that Angus' death was natural.
The police are working hard to find what happened, and they soon find that Angus was poisoned, but who could have done it? However, I'll leave the reader to discover this themself. This is a good story about a caring community, but someone with mallice in mind has temporarily poisoned it. The reader will find out who by the end of this engaging book. I thank Netgalley and Kensignton Books for the opportunity to read an ARC so that I could read the book before publication.
The police are working hard to find what happened, and they soon find that Angus was poisoned, but who could have done it? However, I'll leave the reader to discover this themself. This is a good story about a caring community, but someone with mallice in mind has temporarily poisoned it. The reader will find out who by the end of this engaging book. I thank Netgalley and Kensignton Books for the opportunity to read an ARC so that I could read the book before publication.
November 30, 2025
Gull and Bones is the 8th book in the Seaside Knitters Society Mystery Series by Sally Goldenbaum. The sleuths are a group of knitting enthusiasts. The story is set in a small town by the sea in Massachusetts.
The residents of Sea Harbor are preparing to celebrate the 100th birthday of a longtime resident known as the "old man of the sea" when the bodies begin piling up. Suddenly, a mystery is afoot, and it is up to the Seaside Knitters to find out whodunit.
I really liked this cozy yarn. The mystery is a big part of the story, but equal weight is given to the lives and interactions of the cozy community.
People who haven't read this series before may feel a little lost since there are quite a few characters. However, there is a handy cast list at the start of the book that readers can use as a cheat sheet or a refresher. This is especially helpful since there are multiple POV characters.
The mystery itself is well done. Enough time is spent allowing the reader to get to know the victims so that you feel invested in the case being solved.
The story ends with a recipe and a craft pattern so you can keep the fun going after you finish the book.
The residents of Sea Harbor are preparing to celebrate the 100th birthday of a longtime resident known as the "old man of the sea" when the bodies begin piling up. Suddenly, a mystery is afoot, and it is up to the Seaside Knitters to find out whodunit.
I really liked this cozy yarn. The mystery is a big part of the story, but equal weight is given to the lives and interactions of the cozy community.
People who haven't read this series before may feel a little lost since there are quite a few characters. However, there is a handy cast list at the start of the book that readers can use as a cheat sheet or a refresher. This is especially helpful since there are multiple POV characters.
The mystery itself is well done. Enough time is spent allowing the reader to get to know the victims so that you feel invested in the case being solved.
The story ends with a recipe and a craft pattern so you can keep the fun going after you finish the book.
September 21, 2025
I love that a seaside town would come together to honor a beloved member of their town who was turning 100 years old. The picture that Sally Goldenbaum paints for us is Norman Rockwellish. You want to visit this place if you don't just want to live there.. I love the friendships characterized in the story and envy the knitting group. This book is number 8 in the series, and I have read half of them. It happens that I have not read them in any real order, but that has not been a problem for me with this series. I enjoyed the first half of this book and the end, but the middle was a little slow for me, maybe because I was so anxious to have the problem solved. Sally Goldenbaum always solves her mysteries with a bit more than just the resolution to the mystery, and this book is no different. You will have to read it to see. Sally also always adds a knitting pattern and a recipe at the end of each book. Can't wait to try both.
Thank you to Netgalley and Kensington Publishing | Kensington Cozies for the ARC.
Thank you to Netgalley and Kensington Publishing | Kensington Cozies for the ARC.
December 3, 2025
2.5 stars
Pros: A nice counterpoint to the book that began it all. I enjoyed that aspect of it. The book itself also has a full circle moment at the end. I wondered very strongly if this was intended to be a series ending volume. If so, well done on that score. I am ambivalent about this as a potential ending, I've enjoyed the series, but, especially given the cons, I do think it might be time. (ETA: A quick glance at the author's website indicates another book, the 20th with these characters, in 2026. Interesting...)
Basic concept was fine if not overly exciting.
Plotting was... really slow. Really, really slow-but at this point in the series, hanging out with the gang for an extended period of time is the point, right?
Cons: SOOOOO MANY TYPOS. Sentences missing words. People misnamed. Weird spaces and punctuation, etc, etc, etc. I just can't even. Only my affection for these characters and my dedication to the series kept me plugging away. The simplicity of the plot wasn't necessarily bad, but it meant that certain points got mentioned over and over and over again.
Pros: A nice counterpoint to the book that began it all. I enjoyed that aspect of it. The book itself also has a full circle moment at the end. I wondered very strongly if this was intended to be a series ending volume. If so, well done on that score. I am ambivalent about this as a potential ending, I've enjoyed the series, but, especially given the cons, I do think it might be time. (ETA: A quick glance at the author's website indicates another book, the 20th with these characters, in 2026. Interesting...)
Basic concept was fine if not overly exciting.
Plotting was... really slow. Really, really slow-but at this point in the series, hanging out with the gang for an extended period of time is the point, right?
Cons: SOOOOO MANY TYPOS. Sentences missing words. People misnamed. Weird spaces and punctuation, etc, etc, etc. I just can't even. Only my affection for these characters and my dedication to the series kept me plugging away. The simplicity of the plot wasn't necessarily bad, but it meant that certain points got mentioned over and over and over again.
December 3, 2025
3-1/2 stars
The town of Sea Harbor is coming together to celebrate the 100th birthday of its oldest citizen, Angus McPherron. But two days before the big event, he is found dead. What first looks like natural causes soon becomes something more sinister. Can Izzy, Nell, Birdie and Cass figure how who and why?
This was my first book in this series (although its #8) and the first by this author. I appreciated the author giving us a rundown of the characters before the book starts as there are lot and that did help me, especially being a first timer. I enjoyed getting to know everyone and the way they look out for each other. The mystery kept me interested in finding out who and why and I was surprised at the end. My only issue was the pacing of the story, it did seem to be slow, although that could be that it was my first time reading this series. I think Birdie is my favorite character and I admit Izzy took me a bit to warm up to.
Thanks to NetGalley and Kenzington for allowing me the opportunity to read this book and give my opinion.
The town of Sea Harbor is coming together to celebrate the 100th birthday of its oldest citizen, Angus McPherron. But two days before the big event, he is found dead. What first looks like natural causes soon becomes something more sinister. Can Izzy, Nell, Birdie and Cass figure how who and why?
This was my first book in this series (although its #8) and the first by this author. I appreciated the author giving us a rundown of the characters before the book starts as there are lot and that did help me, especially being a first timer. I enjoyed getting to know everyone and the way they look out for each other. The mystery kept me interested in finding out who and why and I was surprised at the end. My only issue was the pacing of the story, it did seem to be slow, although that could be that it was my first time reading this series. I think Birdie is my favorite character and I admit Izzy took me a bit to warm up to.
Thanks to NetGalley and Kenzington for allowing me the opportunity to read this book and give my opinion.
July 27, 2025
Sea Harbor is gearing up for Angus' 100th birthday and everyone is excited. Before the big day, however, Angus is found dead in his bed. The town decides to have the birthday party as a celebration of life and it ends with Nell and Birdie finding Father Northcutt face down on Angus' living room floor, bleeding and unconscious. The authorities take a second look at Angus' death and determine he did not die peacefully in his sleep as first thought, but someone poisoned the old man of the sea's nightly tea.
Sea Harbor is a town I'd love to live in, minus the murders. Well, maybe the murders as long as I'm not the victim and I can join Nell, Birdie, Izzy, and Cass in their sleuthing. This one had me guessing until the end. I wasn't surprised by who the killer was, but the motive was not what I was expecting. There were several people that could have been the killer and I suspected each of them at one point or another. Gull and Bones is another fantastic read by Sally Goldenbaum.
Sea Harbor is a town I'd love to live in, minus the murders. Well, maybe the murders as long as I'm not the victim and I can join Nell, Birdie, Izzy, and Cass in their sleuthing. This one had me guessing until the end. I wasn't surprised by who the killer was, but the motive was not what I was expecting. There were several people that could have been the killer and I suspected each of them at one point or another. Gull and Bones is another fantastic read by Sally Goldenbaum.
September 9, 2025
Everyone in their small town loved the old man who talked to seagulls and who loved them as his own family. Everyone was getting ready for the big birthday party for his 100th, but two days before he was found dead in bed and a couple of days later his best friend barely survived a head injury inflicted by someone. Was it the same someone who poisoned the town's best friend? It's a storytelling about the people of the town and coming together to understand the unthinkable.
I requested and received a temporary uncorrected proof copy from Kensington Publishing | Kensington Cozies via NetGalley. Thank you! Avail Nov 25, 2025 **** review #goodreads #bookbub
#GullBones by @sallygoldenbaum #SeasideKnittersSocietyBk8 #NetGalley @KensingtonBooks #thestorygraph @librarythingofficial #ponchopattern #maindishpierecipe #cozymystery #smalltown #friendship #murder #attemptedmurder #yarnshop #secretts #lies #deception #knitters
I requested and received a temporary uncorrected proof copy from Kensington Publishing | Kensington Cozies via NetGalley. Thank you! Avail Nov 25, 2025 **** review #goodreads #bookbub
#GullBones by @sallygoldenbaum #SeasideKnittersSocietyBk8 #NetGalley @KensingtonBooks #thestorygraph @librarythingofficial #ponchopattern #maindishpierecipe #cozymystery #smalltown #friendship #murder #attemptedmurder #yarnshop #secretts #lies #deception #knitters
November 26, 2025
From the author’s vivid descriptions of Angus and all the good deeds and friends he’d made, I really felt like I knew him as a character and not just someone who appeared shortly in this book. I felt like wow, he’s been in this series all along, I wonder what book he could’ve been mentioned in. Whether he was or not, it’s always a year between these books, so I had no recollection but still felt like I knew his character well.
It was sad he was the one to be killed in the book, but his friends all mourned for him and had different ways of grieving, some privately and some as a group. Angus would’ve wanted his party to go on, so I’m pretty sure he was smiling down on everyone especially at the party held at the end of the book revealing a super sweet secret. I bet if he hadn’t died, he’d’ve said he guessed it!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an ARC of this book provided by Kensington Cozies via NetGalley, and my opinions are my own.
It was sad he was the one to be killed in the book, but his friends all mourned for him and had different ways of grieving, some privately and some as a group. Angus would’ve wanted his party to go on, so I’m pretty sure he was smiling down on everyone especially at the party held at the end of the book revealing a super sweet secret. I bet if he hadn’t died, he’d’ve said he guessed it!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an ARC of this book provided by Kensington Cozies via NetGalley, and my opinions are my own.
January 2, 2026
1/1/2026 Interminable. Worse, my NetGalley copy read like a second draft at best. It also really irritates me when a character goes through a pages-long scene and then, scant chapters later, describes the entire scene again, as if the author is desperate to pad the word count. Some books I've read have been so thin that I can see why, but there was seriously no need for that in a novel that already had so much going on.
I'm not a fan of this series but I worry that the author was held to an unreasonable timeline to publish. And I know for a fact that there aren't enough editors in this industry and that they're not at all paid well enough to do the jobs they're already doing. Were I more of an ideas person, I'd posit a solution, but I can't solve capitalism in the review section of a cozy mystery novel on Goodreads. There will, however, be a kind-enough review with recipe photos soon over at CriminalElement.com.
I'm not a fan of this series but I worry that the author was held to an unreasonable timeline to publish. And I know for a fact that there aren't enough editors in this industry and that they're not at all paid well enough to do the jobs they're already doing. Were I more of an ideas person, I'd posit a solution, but I can't solve capitalism in the review section of a cozy mystery novel on Goodreads. There will, however, be a kind-enough review with recipe photos soon over at CriminalElement.com.
January 21, 2026
Yes! Yes! Yes! This is how a mystery should be written! Multiple potential suspects, many that you are hoping that it won't be if not all. Twists, turns and intriguing plotting that keeps you turning pages well past the time you carved out to read! Wonderful characters with depth and connection that makes you feel like they are old friends or at least wish that they were. The only disappointment is that this is not a real place that I could visit if not move to so I could stroll the shops they mention, eat the food they describe, hang out in the yarn shop and befriend the townspeople. It is a cozy mystery so will end with a tidy happily ever after feel while leaving you desperately waiting for the next book to come out so you can see what is happening in the characters personal lives next! Some great potential story lines seem to be brewing as this book closed out. Now, I am left a bit sad as I wait for the next book to become available.
September 3, 2025
In GULL & BONES by Sally Goldenbaum, Angus McPherron, a longtime member of Sea Harbor, is about to celebrate his 100th birthday. Izzy Perry and her fellow Seaside Knitters (Birdie Favaza, Cass Bradley, and Nell Endicott) are planning to attend. I want to find out what happens at Angus’s birthday celebration.
I like the list and description of characters at the beginning of the book. This novel is the newest addition to the Seaside Knitters Society series, and the list is helpful when new to the series. I wish I cared more about the characters in this novel. While the plot takes a while to get going, it eventually picks up and ends with a satisfying conclusion. I appreciate the addition of a quilting pattern and a recipe at the end of the book. Thank you, Kensington Publishing and NetGalley, for the chance to read and review an advance reader copy of GULL & BONES.
I like the list and description of characters at the beginning of the book. This novel is the newest addition to the Seaside Knitters Society series, and the list is helpful when new to the series. I wish I cared more about the characters in this novel. While the plot takes a while to get going, it eventually picks up and ends with a satisfying conclusion. I appreciate the addition of a quilting pattern and a recipe at the end of the book. Thank you, Kensington Publishing and NetGalley, for the chance to read and review an advance reader copy of GULL & BONES.
November 15, 2025
In the picturesque seaside town, everyone is getting ready to celebrate the hundredth birthday of a beloved town citizen, fondly known as the Old Man of the Sea. Angus has close friends and his sea gulls to talk to and to help when he can (whether it’s helping or interfering depends on the point of view). When Angus dies just before his birthday, the town grieves, but is horrified when his death is found to be murder. Who would murder a 99-year-old man? And why? There are a few suspects, but in the end the knitting friends track down the culprit.
The story has wonderfully quirky characters, mostly accepted and loved for those quirks. This is an enjoyable cozy mystery to be enjoyed with a leisurely cup of tea and perhaps a knitting project.
Thanks to Kensington Publishing and NetGalley for the ARC.
The story has wonderfully quirky characters, mostly accepted and loved for those quirks. This is an enjoyable cozy mystery to be enjoyed with a leisurely cup of tea and perhaps a knitting project.
Thanks to Kensington Publishing and NetGalley for the ARC.
December 15, 2025
Gull & Bones is book #8 in the Seaside Knitters Society series by Sally Goldenbaum.
Sea Harbor resident, Angus, is turning 100-years-old, there will be a birthday bash for him. Tragically, he dies in his sleep just before the celebration. Events happen that cause the police to look more closely at his death and it becomes a suspected homicide. The Seaside Knitters start looking into Angus and there are a surprising number of suspects. I really enjoy the characters and their relationships. Getting to see how characters grow over time is my favorite part of long running series. The mystery was good and kept me guessing as to who and why.
Thank you to the author, Kensington Publishing, and NetGalley for the Advanced Reader Copy (ARC) copy of this book and I am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
Sea Harbor resident, Angus, is turning 100-years-old, there will be a birthday bash for him. Tragically, he dies in his sleep just before the celebration. Events happen that cause the police to look more closely at his death and it becomes a suspected homicide. The Seaside Knitters start looking into Angus and there are a surprising number of suspects. I really enjoy the characters and their relationships. Getting to see how characters grow over time is my favorite part of long running series. The mystery was good and kept me guessing as to who and why.
Thank you to the author, Kensington Publishing, and NetGalley for the Advanced Reader Copy (ARC) copy of this book and I am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
July 25, 2025
Long time resident Angus, beloved by all, is about to celebrate his 100th birthday and Sea Harbor is ready. Charlie has returned home, Annie Smith, a newcomer has arrived and both are helping Dr Lily take care of Angus in his home. Just days before the celebration, Angus is found to have passed in his sleep by Charlie. Upon further view, he was murdered. The knitters take it upon themselves to find out who could have done this. There are many suspects, and it is not known who did it nor why until the very end. The story does end on a high note, with good news from Izzy. Looking forward to the next installment of the series. Many thanks to NetGalley, Ms Goldenbaum, and Kensington Publishing for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
January 15, 2026
Gulls & Bones is the eighth cozy mystery in the Seaside Knitters Society series. Sea Harbor is gearing up to celebrate Angus McPherson’s 100th birthday, but before the day comes Angus turns up dead. When his death is determined to be murder the Seaside Knitters are in the case, determined to figure out the truth.
This series is full of a good cast of characters and really drive these mysteries. I’ve read a few of the books in the series and had come to like Angus, so it was sad to see him go, but it made for a good mystery. The mystery was fast paced and easy to get through. I liked seeing the familiar characters again and enjoyed following along as they solved the case. This was a good mystery and I’m interested to see what comes next for the knitters.
This series is full of a good cast of characters and really drive these mysteries. I’ve read a few of the books in the series and had come to like Angus, so it was sad to see him go, but it made for a good mystery. The mystery was fast paced and easy to get through. I liked seeing the familiar characters again and enjoyed following along as they solved the case. This was a good mystery and I’m interested to see what comes next for the knitters.
November 13, 2025
Who would kill a man about to kill 100? Well, someone killed Angus even as the town was preparing for a big celebration of his 100th. Not only that, a villain assaulted Father Northcutt. Izzy, Birdie and the rest of the knitting gang spin into action to find answers. Oh, and Izzy is also worried about her brother Charlie who has come to town with the mysterious Annie. This is classic cozy territory set in a small town where not everyone is who they appear to be. There's a fair amount of extraneous stuff in this installment but I still enjoyed spending time with the group. Thanks to netgalley for the ARC. Will be fine as a standalone AND there's a pattern.
November 18, 2025
When a beloved town elder is murdered, everyone in town takes it hard. The Seaside Knitters, however, decide to look into who would have killed a man who was turning 100. With neighbors and friends as suspects, it’s going to be hard to accept they could be so evil. But it will even harder if the killer strikes again before they can figure it out.
This is a fun series and I love the bonds that the women have created and knitting projects. It’s what makes this series one I comeback to each time. The mystery and the progression of the women’s lives makes it a must read series for me.
This is a fun series and I love the bonds that the women have created and knitting projects. It’s what makes this series one I comeback to each time. The mystery and the progression of the women’s lives makes it a must read series for me.
November 25, 2025
This book has wonderful mature characters that bond through their love of knitting. The characters also create a sense of community by their willingness to help each other out. It has a complex plot with several suspects to keep the reader invested in figuring out the solution. The motivation of the killer surprised me at the end! The book includes a knitting pattern for a poncho and a recipe for Spinach and Feta Pie.
Thank you NetGalley and Kensington Books for the ARC in exchange for my honest review!
Thank you NetGalley and Kensington Books for the ARC in exchange for my honest review!
December 10, 2025
ending is good
This book was just too long and basically the first 80% was boring. After reading the first third in pieces, I finally put it down and read another book. Then I came back and read another fourth. Again it dragged so much I left it and read another fourth different book. Finally I came back determined to finish so I would have it off my unread library. Frankly, the last 25% was the best portion. The plot could have been excellent but there was too, too much filler fluff descriptive material.
This book was just too long and basically the first 80% was boring. After reading the first third in pieces, I finally put it down and read another book. Then I came back and read another fourth. Again it dragged so much I left it and read another fourth different book. Finally I came back determined to finish so I would have it off my unread library. Frankly, the last 25% was the best portion. The plot could have been excellent but there was too, too much filler fluff descriptive material.
December 23, 2025
A Return to a Well- loved Place With Another Murder
A visit to idyllic Sea Harbor and its close-knit townsfolk should not provoke expectations of murder but once again it happens. Readers of this series know the amateur sleuths well so it's no surprise when they eliminate many suspects, uncover clues in unlikely places, and name the culprit even as the police are stumped. The puzzling drawback is the amount of misspellings, grammatical errors, and random unrelated words that pop up in the midst of sentences. Please proofread before publishing!
A visit to idyllic Sea Harbor and its close-knit townsfolk should not provoke expectations of murder but once again it happens. Readers of this series know the amateur sleuths well so it's no surprise when they eliminate many suspects, uncover clues in unlikely places, and name the culprit even as the police are stumped. The puzzling drawback is the amount of misspellings, grammatical errors, and random unrelated words that pop up in the midst of sentences. Please proofread before publishing!
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