What do you think?
Rate this book
A Needlecraft Mystery #19
Knit Your Own Murder
In the USA Today bestselling Needlecraft Mysteries, Betsy Devonshire has her hands tied between running her needlework shop and turning her sharp eye for deduction to solving crimes…
The Monday Bunch and other local knitters are participating in a fundraising auction to save a community center, creating a growing pile of stuffed animals and toys right in front of the auctioneers as the audience bids. Among those contributing the most knitted goods is temperamental businesswoman Maddy O’Leary—who keels over halfway through the event.
After she is pronounced DOA, an autopsy reveals that Maddy had been poisoned. But how? And by whom? One of the prime suspects is her ruthless business rival Joe Mickels, who lost a bitterly contested property bid to Maddy.
When Mickels pleads his innocence to Betsy, she reluctantly believes him. But if Betsy is going to uncover the real murderer’s identity, she must first untangle the knots Maddy made in her relationships throughout her life…
The Monday Bunch and other local knitters are participating in a fundraising auction to save a community center, creating a growing pile of stuffed animals and toys right in front of the auctioneers as the audience bids. Among those contributing the most knitted goods is temperamental businesswoman Maddy O’Leary—who keels over halfway through the event.
After she is pronounced DOA, an autopsy reveals that Maddy had been poisoned. But how? And by whom? One of the prime suspects is her ruthless business rival Joe Mickels, who lost a bitterly contested property bid to Maddy.
When Mickels pleads his innocence to Betsy, she reluctantly believes him. But if Betsy is going to uncover the real murderer’s identity, she must first untangle the knots Maddy made in her relationships throughout her life…
296 pages, Hardcover
First published February 2, 2016
128 people are currently reading
1104 people want to read
About the author
Monica Ferris
27 books492 followersHas published as
Mary Monica Pulver (real name)
Mary Kuhfeld
Margaret Frazer (with Gail Frazer)
[from the author's own website)
Mary Monica Pulver (her maiden name) is an incidental Hoosier — Terre Haute, Indiana, had the hospital closest to her parents’ home in Marshall, Illinois. She spent the later part of her childhood and early adult life in Wisconsin, graduating from high school in Milwaukee.
She was a journalist in the U.S. Navy for six and a half years (two in London), and later attended the University of Wisconsin at Madison. She is married to a museum curator.
Mary Monica sold her first short story, “Pass the Word,” to Alfred Hitchcock’s Mystery Magazine, in 1983, and has since sold more than two dozen short stories to anthologies and magazines, including some in Germany, England, Italy and France.
She has appeared in such anthologies as The Mammoth Book of Historical Detectives, The Mammoth Book of Historical Whodunnits, Shakespearean Mysteries, Royal Whodunnits, Unholy Orders, Murder Most Crafty, and Silence of the Loons. Her first mystery novel, Murder at the War, appeared from St. Martin’s Press in 1987 and was nominated for an Anthony as Best First Novel. The Unforgiving Minutes and Ashes to Ashes followed in 1988; but Original Sin was sold to Walker, who also presented the fifth book, Show Stopper, in May of 1992. Berkley Diamond brought these mysteries out in paperback. They feature detective Peter Brichter – a cop one reviewer said was “a hardboiled sleuth who’s somehow landed in a cozy mystery”.
Berkley published six medieval mysteries Mary Monica wrote in collaboration with Gail Frazer under the pseudonym Margaret Frazer: The Novice’s Tale, The Servant’s Tale (nominated for an Edgar as Best Original Paperback of 1993), The Outlaw’s Tale, The Bishop’s Tale, The Boy’s Tale, and The Murderer’s Tale. The detective in the mysteries is a nun, Dame Frevisse, a niece by marriage of Thomas Chaucer, the legendary Geoffrey’s son. The stories take place in England in the 1430s. Gail presently continues the series alone.
In 1998 Mary Monica began writing a new series for Berkley featuring amateur needleworking sleuth Betsy Devonshire. Set in Excelsior, Minnesota, Crewel World came out in March and was followed by Framed in Lace, A Stitch in Time, Unraveled Sleeve, A Murderous Yarn, Hanging by A Thread, Cutwork, Crewel Yule, Embroidered Truths, Sins and Needles, Knitting Bones, Thai Die, Blackwork, and Buttons and Bones. Threadbare will appear in December of 2011, and she is at work on And Then You Dye. The first six were paperback originals. Subsequent books were hardcovers followed by paperback editions. These light and traditional novels are written under the pseudonym Monica Ferris, and all have gone to multiple printings – the first one is in its eighteenth printing!
Mary Monica has taught courses on mystery writing to children at North Hennepin Community College, gifted children in District #287, and adults at one-evening seminars at Hennepin and Ramsey County libraries. She does lectures and signings, and has appeared on panels at mystery and science fiction conventions, including Bouchercon, Minicon, Diversicon, Magna Cum Murder, and Malice Domestic.
She has spoken to stitchery guilds on local, state, and national levels. She has won a place on national and local best-seller lists, including USA Today and the independent mystery bookstore compilation. She is a member of Sisters in Crime (a national organization that promotes women who write mystery fiction), remains a paid speaker on the life of a mystery author, and is a volunteer for Wildlife Rescue and Rehabilitation, and in
Mary Monica Pulver (real name)
Mary Kuhfeld
Margaret Frazer (with Gail Frazer)
[from the author's own website)
Mary Monica Pulver (her maiden name) is an incidental Hoosier — Terre Haute, Indiana, had the hospital closest to her parents’ home in Marshall, Illinois. She spent the later part of her childhood and early adult life in Wisconsin, graduating from high school in Milwaukee.
She was a journalist in the U.S. Navy for six and a half years (two in London), and later attended the University of Wisconsin at Madison. She is married to a museum curator.
Mary Monica sold her first short story, “Pass the Word,” to Alfred Hitchcock’s Mystery Magazine, in 1983, and has since sold more than two dozen short stories to anthologies and magazines, including some in Germany, England, Italy and France.
She has appeared in such anthologies as The Mammoth Book of Historical Detectives, The Mammoth Book of Historical Whodunnits, Shakespearean Mysteries, Royal Whodunnits, Unholy Orders, Murder Most Crafty, and Silence of the Loons. Her first mystery novel, Murder at the War, appeared from St. Martin’s Press in 1987 and was nominated for an Anthony as Best First Novel. The Unforgiving Minutes and Ashes to Ashes followed in 1988; but Original Sin was sold to Walker, who also presented the fifth book, Show Stopper, in May of 1992. Berkley Diamond brought these mysteries out in paperback. They feature detective Peter Brichter – a cop one reviewer said was “a hardboiled sleuth who’s somehow landed in a cozy mystery”.
Berkley published six medieval mysteries Mary Monica wrote in collaboration with Gail Frazer under the pseudonym Margaret Frazer: The Novice’s Tale, The Servant’s Tale (nominated for an Edgar as Best Original Paperback of 1993), The Outlaw’s Tale, The Bishop’s Tale, The Boy’s Tale, and The Murderer’s Tale. The detective in the mysteries is a nun, Dame Frevisse, a niece by marriage of Thomas Chaucer, the legendary Geoffrey’s son. The stories take place in England in the 1430s. Gail presently continues the series alone.
In 1998 Mary Monica began writing a new series for Berkley featuring amateur needleworking sleuth Betsy Devonshire. Set in Excelsior, Minnesota, Crewel World came out in March and was followed by Framed in Lace, A Stitch in Time, Unraveled Sleeve, A Murderous Yarn, Hanging by A Thread, Cutwork, Crewel Yule, Embroidered Truths, Sins and Needles, Knitting Bones, Thai Die, Blackwork, and Buttons and Bones. Threadbare will appear in December of 2011, and she is at work on And Then You Dye. The first six were paperback originals. Subsequent books were hardcovers followed by paperback editions. These light and traditional novels are written under the pseudonym Monica Ferris, and all have gone to multiple printings – the first one is in its eighteenth printing!
Mary Monica has taught courses on mystery writing to children at North Hennepin Community College, gifted children in District #287, and adults at one-evening seminars at Hennepin and Ramsey County libraries. She does lectures and signings, and has appeared on panels at mystery and science fiction conventions, including Bouchercon, Minicon, Diversicon, Magna Cum Murder, and Malice Domestic.
She has spoken to stitchery guilds on local, state, and national levels. She has won a place on national and local best-seller lists, including USA Today and the independent mystery bookstore compilation. She is a member of Sisters in Crime (a national organization that promotes women who write mystery fiction), remains a paid speaker on the life of a mystery author, and is a volunteer for Wildlife Rescue and Rehabilitation, and in
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 166 reviews
July 25, 2017
http://openbooksociety.com/article/kn...
Knit Your Own Murder
A Needlecraft Mystery, Book #19
By Monica Ferris
ISBN13: 9780425270127
Author website: http://monica-ferris.com/
Brought to you by OBS reviewer Kayt
Synopsis:
In the USA Today bestselling Needlecraft Mysteries, Betsy Devonshire has her hands tied between running her needlework shop and turning her sharp eye for deduction to solving crimes…
The Monday Bunch and other local knitters are participating in a fundraising auction to save a community center, creating a growing pile of stuffed animals and toys right in front of the auctioneers as the audience bids. Among those contributing the most knitted goods is temperamental businesswoman Maddy O’Leary—who keels over halfway through the event.
After she is pronounced DOA at the hospital, an autopsy reveals that Marsha had been poisoned. But how? And by whom? One of the prime suspects is her ruthless business rival Joe Mickels, who lost a bitterly contested property bid to Marsha.
When Mickels pleads his innocence to Betsy, she reluctantly believes him. But if Betsy is going to uncover the real murderer’s identity, she must first untangle the knots Marsha made in her relationships throughout her life…
Review:
I really enjoy this cozy series and it is still going strong even with Knit Your Own Murder being the 19th book. “A Needlecraft Mystery” series is always fun, always entertaining and always seems to have just the right punch. This is another excellent mystery written by fabulous author Monica Ferris. The protagonist, Betsy Devonshire is just a bit different from so many amateur detectives I usually see in my favorite genre cozy mysteries. Betsy tries to work with the police, worries about jumping to conclusions, does not want to hurt anyone’s reputation. She is methodical and intelligent and has a wonderful caring heart. Her group of friends is a wonderful eclectic pack of great people. Starting with her boyfriend Connor, her assistant Godwin and all of the fellow knitters in her Monday Bunch. Her store Crewel World is a hive of activity at least on Mondays, even if sales have dropped off badly.
One of the Monday Bunch, Bershada came up with an exciting way to help their local community center. Have an auction selling handmade knitted animals. The knitters have been busy bees getting all they could done. Several locals are assisting as well. They are making cute little critters from Paddington Bear to fruit bats. The piece de resistance is a dragon made by a local famous artist. The knitters that made the most animals will be on stage knitting while the auction goes on. Even rude and always angry businesswoman Maddy O’Leary. She is not excited about being on stage, Betsy thinks she may just be shy. During the auction a tragedy occurs. Maddy falls over dead, poisoned by pure nicotine. Who would have done such a horrible thing?
A few days before the auction, local business man Harry Whiteside is found dead in his home. The police think it may be a robbery gone wrong. Things seem pretty suspicious after Maddy is killed. The two dead citizens were just involved in a serious real estate battle with Betsy’s old landlord Joe Mickels. Maddy won the battle, but what will happen now that she is dead. Joe comes to Betsy asking for her help to prove he is innocent. Her past experience helping to solve murders has earned her a reputation. She is very careful and always seems to let the local police to know what she is doing and what her suspicions are. She uncovers a tangle of business dealing between the 3 and more about the two deceased that bring several things to the surface. With her determined help and insight, the killer(s) are finally discovered. A wonderful twist is just perfect!
Several things set Knit You Own Murder and this series apart from most cozies. One the book is told in several different voices. Each character has their own voice and it is not hectic, jumping from one to the other. It flows and is seamless. Also Betsy is a careful and determined investigator. She does not put herself in careless danger and harm’s way. She learns things from listening, from observing. Her surrounding characters are enjoyable and assist with small things, but also do not go off willy nilly. You do not have to have read any of the other books in this wonderful series to thoroughly enjoy this read. Each can stand alone, but it is a wonderful long lasting series that just keeps getting better.
*OBS would like to thank the publisher for supplying a free copy of this title in exchange for an honest review as part of their ongoing blog tour*
http://openbooksociety.com/article/kn...
Knit Your Own Murder
A Needlecraft Mystery, Book #19
By Monica Ferris
ISBN 9780425270134
Author’s website: www.monica-ferris.com
Brought to you by OBS Reviewer Jeanie
Synopsis:
In the USA Today bestselling Needlecraft Mysteries, Betsy Devonshire has her hands tied between running her needlework shop and turning her sharp eye for deduction to solve a knotty murder at a local fund-raiser…
The Monday Bunch and other local knitters are participating in a fund-raising auction to save a community center, creating a growing pile of stuffed animals and toys right in front of the auctioneers as the audience bids. Among those contributing the most knitted goods is temperamental businesswoman Maddy O’Leary–who keels over halfway through the event.
After she is pronounced DOA, an autopsy reveals that Maddy had been poisoned. But how? And by whom? One of the prime suspects is her ruthless business rival, Joe Mickels, who lost a bitterly contested property bid to Maddy.
When Mickels pleads his innocence to Betsy, she reluctantly believes him. But if Betsy is going to uncover the real murderer’s identity, she must first untangle the knots Maddy made in her relationships throughout her life.
Review:
This is a remarkable novel, with excellent plotting and so intriguing that it was hard to put down! Monica Ferris has outdone herself with Knit Your Own Murder, 19th in the Needlecraft Mystery series. If one has read others in the series or if it is the first one, the author shows the readers about the characters simply and sufficiently so even the first time reader feels part or the Monday Bunch.
Harry Whiteside, a shrewd local businessman, Maddy O’Leary, an equally shrewd and sharp-tongued businesswoman, and Joe Mickels, an elderly man who has dreamt for many years of having a Mickels building in Excelsior are the top three bidders on a coveted parcel of land. They bid against each other, driving the others’ bids up, until Maddy finally wins the parcel, Joe is deeply disappointed, but could his disappointment lead to murder? Harry, the second high bidder who contributed to increasing the final bid amount, is found murdered. It was thought he entered his luxurious home and caught vandals in the act of doing damage and was murdered as a result.
The Monday Bunch and a few regular customers of Betsy’s at Crewel World have been knitting animals for a benefit auction. Some are amazingly detailed, with one being a huge and very detailed rendition of a local artisan’s idea of Lewis Carroll’s Jabberwock. Maddy O’Leary is an avid knitter, contributing more than anyone else but doesn’t want others to know. At the auction, she and other top contributors were seated at a table in front, each with yarn and needles of their choice from Crewel World, beginning to knit a new project on their special selected yarn. Maddy suddenly and mysteriously died while knitting during the auction.
Joe is the only man left, and it isn’t certain who the property will go to – Maddy’s heir(s) or a winner of a whole new bid. Joe is the primary suspect in the murders, as he has motive, but whether he has both means and opportunity are yet to be seen. A proud man, it is no small fete for him to come to Betsy, who has helped solve many murders in their area. He is seeking her help to stay out of prison orange – and if the murders are related to the property, before his is the next memorial service conducted in the Lake Minnetonka area.
Betsy begins doing what she does best – along with running the shop and being friend and sounding board to many in the area. She studies the situations as revealed, asking hard questions, even of Harry’s sons and Chaz, son of a fellow knitter, who worked for Maddy for years, learning the business from the ground up. In the meantime, Godwin, the store manager, has been proposed to by his partner, and what should be a joyous time comes crashing down as his partner’s sister arrives from Europe on behalf of their family, demanding that he take a wife and have a male heir.
Many of the characters are complex; if there were a privately-owned yarn crafts store near me with some of the personalities of those at Crewel World, I might consider being part of a “Monday bunch”, too! Godwin is such a hoot! Having him and two men (Betsy’s sweetheart Connor, and the husband of a woman there) make the group interesting and fun. It is easy to picture several of those more prominently defined, contributing to the novel coming to life.
What also brings Knit Your Own Murder to life is the mystery itself. There are a couple red herrings brought to the surface. Betsy’s recall for local events helps raise some necessary questions, but the police are not – even after all this time – receptive to her ideas. While I considered a scenario similar to how the mystery resolves, but was missing the opportunity in one case and the means in another. The author is well ahead of this reader, gracing us with a finished product without loose fibers or missed stitches. The resolution of the murders still was a surprise as Betsy finally found evidence and opportunity pointing to the bad guy/ gal. I highly recommend this novel to those who enjoy well-written cozy mysteries with interesting, likable characters centered around needlework and friendship.
*OBS would like to thank the publisher for supplying a free copy of this title in exchange for an honest review as part of their ongoing blog tour*
Knit Your Own Murder
A Needlecraft Mystery, Book #19
By Monica Ferris
ISBN13: 9780425270127
Author website: http://monica-ferris.com/
Brought to you by OBS reviewer Kayt
Synopsis:
In the USA Today bestselling Needlecraft Mysteries, Betsy Devonshire has her hands tied between running her needlework shop and turning her sharp eye for deduction to solving crimes…
The Monday Bunch and other local knitters are participating in a fundraising auction to save a community center, creating a growing pile of stuffed animals and toys right in front of the auctioneers as the audience bids. Among those contributing the most knitted goods is temperamental businesswoman Maddy O’Leary—who keels over halfway through the event.
After she is pronounced DOA at the hospital, an autopsy reveals that Marsha had been poisoned. But how? And by whom? One of the prime suspects is her ruthless business rival Joe Mickels, who lost a bitterly contested property bid to Marsha.
When Mickels pleads his innocence to Betsy, she reluctantly believes him. But if Betsy is going to uncover the real murderer’s identity, she must first untangle the knots Marsha made in her relationships throughout her life…
Review:
I really enjoy this cozy series and it is still going strong even with Knit Your Own Murder being the 19th book. “A Needlecraft Mystery” series is always fun, always entertaining and always seems to have just the right punch. This is another excellent mystery written by fabulous author Monica Ferris. The protagonist, Betsy Devonshire is just a bit different from so many amateur detectives I usually see in my favorite genre cozy mysteries. Betsy tries to work with the police, worries about jumping to conclusions, does not want to hurt anyone’s reputation. She is methodical and intelligent and has a wonderful caring heart. Her group of friends is a wonderful eclectic pack of great people. Starting with her boyfriend Connor, her assistant Godwin and all of the fellow knitters in her Monday Bunch. Her store Crewel World is a hive of activity at least on Mondays, even if sales have dropped off badly.
One of the Monday Bunch, Bershada came up with an exciting way to help their local community center. Have an auction selling handmade knitted animals. The knitters have been busy bees getting all they could done. Several locals are assisting as well. They are making cute little critters from Paddington Bear to fruit bats. The piece de resistance is a dragon made by a local famous artist. The knitters that made the most animals will be on stage knitting while the auction goes on. Even rude and always angry businesswoman Maddy O’Leary. She is not excited about being on stage, Betsy thinks she may just be shy. During the auction a tragedy occurs. Maddy falls over dead, poisoned by pure nicotine. Who would have done such a horrible thing?
A few days before the auction, local business man Harry Whiteside is found dead in his home. The police think it may be a robbery gone wrong. Things seem pretty suspicious after Maddy is killed. The two dead citizens were just involved in a serious real estate battle with Betsy’s old landlord Joe Mickels. Maddy won the battle, but what will happen now that she is dead. Joe comes to Betsy asking for her help to prove he is innocent. Her past experience helping to solve murders has earned her a reputation. She is very careful and always seems to let the local police to know what she is doing and what her suspicions are. She uncovers a tangle of business dealing between the 3 and more about the two deceased that bring several things to the surface. With her determined help and insight, the killer(s) are finally discovered. A wonderful twist is just perfect!
Several things set Knit You Own Murder and this series apart from most cozies. One the book is told in several different voices. Each character has their own voice and it is not hectic, jumping from one to the other. It flows and is seamless. Also Betsy is a careful and determined investigator. She does not put herself in careless danger and harm’s way. She learns things from listening, from observing. Her surrounding characters are enjoyable and assist with small things, but also do not go off willy nilly. You do not have to have read any of the other books in this wonderful series to thoroughly enjoy this read. Each can stand alone, but it is a wonderful long lasting series that just keeps getting better.
*OBS would like to thank the publisher for supplying a free copy of this title in exchange for an honest review as part of their ongoing blog tour*
http://openbooksociety.com/article/kn...
Knit Your Own Murder
A Needlecraft Mystery, Book #19
By Monica Ferris
ISBN 9780425270134
Author’s website: www.monica-ferris.com
Brought to you by OBS Reviewer Jeanie
Synopsis:
In the USA Today bestselling Needlecraft Mysteries, Betsy Devonshire has her hands tied between running her needlework shop and turning her sharp eye for deduction to solve a knotty murder at a local fund-raiser…
The Monday Bunch and other local knitters are participating in a fund-raising auction to save a community center, creating a growing pile of stuffed animals and toys right in front of the auctioneers as the audience bids. Among those contributing the most knitted goods is temperamental businesswoman Maddy O’Leary–who keels over halfway through the event.
After she is pronounced DOA, an autopsy reveals that Maddy had been poisoned. But how? And by whom? One of the prime suspects is her ruthless business rival, Joe Mickels, who lost a bitterly contested property bid to Maddy.
When Mickels pleads his innocence to Betsy, she reluctantly believes him. But if Betsy is going to uncover the real murderer’s identity, she must first untangle the knots Maddy made in her relationships throughout her life.
Review:
This is a remarkable novel, with excellent plotting and so intriguing that it was hard to put down! Monica Ferris has outdone herself with Knit Your Own Murder, 19th in the Needlecraft Mystery series. If one has read others in the series or if it is the first one, the author shows the readers about the characters simply and sufficiently so even the first time reader feels part or the Monday Bunch.
Harry Whiteside, a shrewd local businessman, Maddy O’Leary, an equally shrewd and sharp-tongued businesswoman, and Joe Mickels, an elderly man who has dreamt for many years of having a Mickels building in Excelsior are the top three bidders on a coveted parcel of land. They bid against each other, driving the others’ bids up, until Maddy finally wins the parcel, Joe is deeply disappointed, but could his disappointment lead to murder? Harry, the second high bidder who contributed to increasing the final bid amount, is found murdered. It was thought he entered his luxurious home and caught vandals in the act of doing damage and was murdered as a result.
The Monday Bunch and a few regular customers of Betsy’s at Crewel World have been knitting animals for a benefit auction. Some are amazingly detailed, with one being a huge and very detailed rendition of a local artisan’s idea of Lewis Carroll’s Jabberwock. Maddy O’Leary is an avid knitter, contributing more than anyone else but doesn’t want others to know. At the auction, she and other top contributors were seated at a table in front, each with yarn and needles of their choice from Crewel World, beginning to knit a new project on their special selected yarn. Maddy suddenly and mysteriously died while knitting during the auction.
Joe is the only man left, and it isn’t certain who the property will go to – Maddy’s heir(s) or a winner of a whole new bid. Joe is the primary suspect in the murders, as he has motive, but whether he has both means and opportunity are yet to be seen. A proud man, it is no small fete for him to come to Betsy, who has helped solve many murders in their area. He is seeking her help to stay out of prison orange – and if the murders are related to the property, before his is the next memorial service conducted in the Lake Minnetonka area.
Betsy begins doing what she does best – along with running the shop and being friend and sounding board to many in the area. She studies the situations as revealed, asking hard questions, even of Harry’s sons and Chaz, son of a fellow knitter, who worked for Maddy for years, learning the business from the ground up. In the meantime, Godwin, the store manager, has been proposed to by his partner, and what should be a joyous time comes crashing down as his partner’s sister arrives from Europe on behalf of their family, demanding that he take a wife and have a male heir.
Many of the characters are complex; if there were a privately-owned yarn crafts store near me with some of the personalities of those at Crewel World, I might consider being part of a “Monday bunch”, too! Godwin is such a hoot! Having him and two men (Betsy’s sweetheart Connor, and the husband of a woman there) make the group interesting and fun. It is easy to picture several of those more prominently defined, contributing to the novel coming to life.
What also brings Knit Your Own Murder to life is the mystery itself. There are a couple red herrings brought to the surface. Betsy’s recall for local events helps raise some necessary questions, but the police are not – even after all this time – receptive to her ideas. While I considered a scenario similar to how the mystery resolves, but was missing the opportunity in one case and the means in another. The author is well ahead of this reader, gracing us with a finished product without loose fibers or missed stitches. The resolution of the murders still was a surprise as Betsy finally found evidence and opportunity pointing to the bad guy/ gal. I highly recommend this novel to those who enjoy well-written cozy mysteries with interesting, likable characters centered around needlework and friendship.
*OBS would like to thank the publisher for supplying a free copy of this title in exchange for an honest review as part of their ongoing blog tour*
July 28, 2016
"Knit Your Own Murder" is a cozy mystery. It's the nineteenth novel in the series. You don't need to read the previous books to understand this one, and this story didn't spoil the previous mysteries.
I like that the heroine is careful in her investigation and doesn't want to damage anyone's reputation in the process. However, I was disappointed that most of this story was filler--shop and knitting scenes, of course, but also Rafael thinking about his coin collection in detail (and it has nothing to do with the murder) and lots of drama around Godwin and Rafael getting engaged, planning their wedding, and thinking about obtaining and raising a son to satisfy Rafael's family.
Very little time was spent on solving the mystery. While it was a clue-based mystery, there were few suspects and only a few clues were needed to solve it. Half of the mystery scenes were getting proof of how whodunit did it--which is good (as I love evidence!) but shows how little puzzle there was to the mystery.
There was no sex. There was some bad language.
I received this book as a review copy from the publisher.
I like that the heroine is careful in her investigation and doesn't want to damage anyone's reputation in the process. However, I was disappointed that most of this story was filler--shop and knitting scenes, of course, but also Rafael thinking about his coin collection in detail (and it has nothing to do with the murder) and lots of drama around Godwin and Rafael getting engaged, planning their wedding, and thinking about obtaining and raising a son to satisfy Rafael's family.
Very little time was spent on solving the mystery. While it was a clue-based mystery, there were few suspects and only a few clues were needed to solve it. Half of the mystery scenes were getting proof of how whodunit did it--which is good (as I love evidence!) but shows how little puzzle there was to the mystery.
There was no sex. There was some bad language.
I received this book as a review copy from the publisher.
September 25, 2017
The latest (and possibly final?) installment in the Betsy Devonshire series by Monica Ferris and I think this has run its course. This book was less about the murder/s and more about the personal life of various characters, the ending seemed almost an afterthought and if this isn't the last one Ms Ferris is writing then I am sorry to say this is the last I will be reading.
1.5 stars only :(
1.5 stars only :(
April 26, 2017
A fun plot. After two separate murders happen in close succession in a small town on Lake Minnetonka in Minnesota, our heroine Betsy Devonshire is "hired" to see if she can figure things out. Although she's not a PI, as this is #19 in a series, this mild mannered knitting shop owner apparently has a way of solving crimes.
So, I liked the mystery. I liked that Betsy never stupidly ended up in harm's way. What I didn't like was a lot of unnecessary detail, mostly about clothing. He had on a brown sweater and brown corduroys. She wore a two piece yellow suit with matching yellow shoes. (I'm not sure how old she is, but this outfit sounds pretty fussy. She probably had a matching bag but it wasn't mentioned.) Of course, There was a lot about knitting, but I expected that.
There was also a lot of time spent in church, with lots of details about the service. Not sure where that came from.
So, it served its purpose. I had a few hours of pleasant reading. Also, in spite of my nitpicking, I know I could never write even one book, let alone nineteen.
So, I liked the mystery. I liked that Betsy never stupidly ended up in harm's way. What I didn't like was a lot of unnecessary detail, mostly about clothing. He had on a brown sweater and brown corduroys. She wore a two piece yellow suit with matching yellow shoes. (I'm not sure how old she is, but this outfit sounds pretty fussy. She probably had a matching bag but it wasn't mentioned.) Of course, There was a lot about knitting, but I expected that.
There was also a lot of time spent in church, with lots of details about the service. Not sure where that came from.
So, it served its purpose. I had a few hours of pleasant reading. Also, in spite of my nitpicking, I know I could never write even one book, let alone nineteen.
April 21, 2025
I love this series, every time I read one it's like meeting old friends with the engaging characters. The mysteries are good too.
April 14, 2021
This one is probably more accurately a 3.5 rounded up. There is an interesting twist in the plot and it's always nice to catch up with the cast of characters. On the negative side, at least for me, one chapter is completely devoted to a religious service that has nothing to do with the mystery at all. Overall there was an emphasis on religion I hadn't noticed so much in previous books.
August 2, 2016
Another wonderfully crafted story in the Needlecraft Mystery series.
You would think after eighteen books in a series there would be no more stories to tell. Well, you, like me, would be wrong. Book nineteen in the Needlecraft Mystery series, KNIT YOUR OWN MUDRDER, is just as entertaining as all the books before it.
Author Monica Ferris has penned another magnificent installment in her Needlecraft series. Mystery, intrigue, and well developed and multilayered characters are all skillfully knitted together to create a can’t-put-it-down book that you’ll remember long after reading.
With a story like KNIT YOUR OWN MURDER, it’s truly no wonder this series has had such a loyal following.
Hats off to you Monica Ferris!
Don’t forget to check out the back of the book for a fun knitting pattern!
You would think after eighteen books in a series there would be no more stories to tell. Well, you, like me, would be wrong. Book nineteen in the Needlecraft Mystery series, KNIT YOUR OWN MUDRDER, is just as entertaining as all the books before it.
Author Monica Ferris has penned another magnificent installment in her Needlecraft series. Mystery, intrigue, and well developed and multilayered characters are all skillfully knitted together to create a can’t-put-it-down book that you’ll remember long after reading.
With a story like KNIT YOUR OWN MURDER, it’s truly no wonder this series has had such a loyal following.
Hats off to you Monica Ferris!
Don’t forget to check out the back of the book for a fun knitting pattern!
May 29, 2020
A competition, an argument and a couple murders… Oh my!
I’ve not read anything by Monica Ferris and was drawn to this book, quite frankly, because of the cat on the cover. I’m a sucker for books with cats in them. I liked that this one was a toy. I’m not a knitter or crocheter. I don’t know my knit two from a purl one. I didn’t need to know anything about knitting to enjoy this book. There is a lot going on in this story.
The writing is crisp and kept me going. I didn’t want to put it down. I’m looking forward to more by this author. Some might be bogged down in the details of knitting aspect of the story. They might be a little confused by some of the product mentions, too. I have no idea what the stuff was the characters discussed stuffing their knitted critters with and it didn’t bother me.
I have to admit, I had no idea who’d committed the murders until the end. I read for the sheer excitement of reading and wasn’t looking for the specific clues on who killed the others. But there were moments when certain things stuck out. I also got a little confused on the sheer amount of characters and character points of view. I did like that the world is so rich and that there is more going on in the story than just the murder. Nothing ever happens in a vacuum. I rather enjoyed the side story of Raphael and Godwin, the gay couple looking to get married. Again, it’s a small town situation and there are always things going on in ever direction.
If you want a cozy mystery that’s a little different and has a knitting theme, then this might be the book for you. Give it a try.
I’ve not read anything by Monica Ferris and was drawn to this book, quite frankly, because of the cat on the cover. I’m a sucker for books with cats in them. I liked that this one was a toy. I’m not a knitter or crocheter. I don’t know my knit two from a purl one. I didn’t need to know anything about knitting to enjoy this book. There is a lot going on in this story.
The writing is crisp and kept me going. I didn’t want to put it down. I’m looking forward to more by this author. Some might be bogged down in the details of knitting aspect of the story. They might be a little confused by some of the product mentions, too. I have no idea what the stuff was the characters discussed stuffing their knitted critters with and it didn’t bother me.
I have to admit, I had no idea who’d committed the murders until the end. I read for the sheer excitement of reading and wasn’t looking for the specific clues on who killed the others. But there were moments when certain things stuck out. I also got a little confused on the sheer amount of characters and character points of view. I did like that the world is so rich and that there is more going on in the story than just the murder. Nothing ever happens in a vacuum. I rather enjoyed the side story of Raphael and Godwin, the gay couple looking to get married. Again, it’s a small town situation and there are always things going on in ever direction.
If you want a cozy mystery that’s a little different and has a knitting theme, then this might be the book for you. Give it a try.
August 9, 2020
DNF. This is apparently the last book in the series and the part that I read was tedious and difficult to get through. Very little action, and most of the focus was on the personal life of the characters.
The only reason I didn’t give this 1/5 stars is because the rest of the aeries (earlier books) have much better reviews. I would totally give the earlier books a try, based also on the fact that the writing was decent and the setting interesting.
But if I pick up a cozy mystery, y’all, please let there be enough action within the first 3rd to keep me from being bored. And I’m NOT a reader who is easily bored.
The only reason I didn’t give this 1/5 stars is because the rest of the aeries (earlier books) have much better reviews. I would totally give the earlier books a try, based also on the fact that the writing was decent and the setting interesting.
But if I pick up a cozy mystery, y’all, please let there be enough action within the first 3rd to keep me from being bored. And I’m NOT a reader who is easily bored.
March 8, 2018
Quant Mystery5
This book was ok, There was implied knowledge expected on characters and background stories. Everything was just ok. I did like the details about needlework though.
This book was ok, There was implied knowledge expected on characters and background stories. Everything was just ok. I did like the details about needlework though.
June 2, 2019
First off, I haven't finished it yet. When I read a Kindle edition, it's on my phone and I generally only read them when I'm stuck waiting in line somewhere. Anyway, I can't believe there are 19 of these books. I will not be reading another. I probably got it for free or a dollar and it mentioned knitting in the title, so I figured what the heck, I'll give it a shot.
There is an entire segment devoted to Easter weekend which had NOTHING to do with the storyline whatsoever, but I got to read about them going to church and how great Easter vigil is (I've been to an Easter vigil mass or two, and trust me, I'm never doing it again), etc. It did not progress the book along at all. Is it to appease the Christians who read this and are upset that Connor and Betsy are living in sin, and that there are two gay characters who are getting married? I don't get it.
Finally finished this. I never need to read another from this series. It was all wrapped up in a neat little bow. The knitting aspect was peripheral at best, so if you're a knitter who is thinking about reading this, don't. After the first couple of chapters, all needlework mentioned is counted cross-stitch and its ilk.
There is an entire segment devoted to Easter weekend which had NOTHING to do with the storyline whatsoever, but I got to read about them going to church and how great Easter vigil is (I've been to an Easter vigil mass or two, and trust me, I'm never doing it again), etc. It did not progress the book along at all. Is it to appease the Christians who read this and are upset that Connor and Betsy are living in sin, and that there are two gay characters who are getting married? I don't get it.
Finally finished this. I never need to read another from this series. It was all wrapped up in a neat little bow. The knitting aspect was peripheral at best, so if you're a knitter who is thinking about reading this, don't. After the first couple of chapters, all needlework mentioned is counted cross-stitch and its ilk.
February 12, 2017
I dont knit much. I like to crochet but I liked this mystery. It is cozy read about investigator sleuth knitting shop owner who solves mysteries.
August 9, 2016
Another great book in the series! I never grow tired of reading about Betsy, Connor, Goddy, Jill and the rest of the crew.
Joe Mickels comes to see Betsy about helping him. He's a prime suspect in the murder of a local woman. They, along with another man, were bidding against each other on a prime piece of property that Maddy O'Leary ended up winning and now, she's dead from a lethal dose of nicotine on her yarn. As Joe not only couldn't stand the woman, he also owns three e-cig stores, he's looking good for the murder. Can Betsy help him clear his name? Will she?
Joe Mickels comes to see Betsy about helping him. He's a prime suspect in the murder of a local woman. They, along with another man, were bidding against each other on a prime piece of property that Maddy O'Leary ended up winning and now, she's dead from a lethal dose of nicotine on her yarn. As Joe not only couldn't stand the woman, he also owns three e-cig stores, he's looking good for the murder. Can Betsy help him clear his name? Will she?
March 2, 2017
Knit Your Own Murder by Monica Ferris is the nineteenth in the Needlecraft Mystery series. After two years of solidly reading the series I've caught up and managed to read the entire thing. I don't know if if a twentieth book is planned. As the series stands now, a lot of the long character arcs are finished up enough for long time readers to fill in the blanks.
http://www.pussreboots.pair.com/blog/...
http://www.pussreboots.pair.com/blog/...
August 7, 2016
Ecxellent ending! I've never seen this solution before and didn't suspect it. What fun to see Betsy, Connor, Goddy, Jill, and the gang again. I'm already looking forward to the next book!
November 13, 2016
That's it, I'm done with these.
July 6, 2017
This is a series that I will miss, and hope the author continues via different venue. It is only the second in the series that I have read, and it is fabulous. Needle and hook yarn - fabric - etc artists will love this 19th in series. Not only does the author make it easy for the newcomer to get to know characters, she has a delightful collection of very likable women and men.
One of my "likes" is how Betsy's guy Connor listens when she bounces ideas off of him and doesn't criticize. He also sits in with the Monday Bunch and knits along with those making animals for the auction. Betsy is open and caring, a true friend to those around her.
The mystery is complex with several variables. Even so, I entertained the idea that...the real bad guy or bad gal was exactly who it turned out to be, but couldn't come up with means or opportunity. And of course, one person had to be behind the murders, and that likely suspect is one who Betsy is convinced is innocent.
This is a realistic picture of some property management/ development/ construction "moguls". Thankfully the folks I worked for never resorted to murder! but I did see the extreme competition and reactions. Right down to how some of the contractors are treated. Again, not to the detriment of others, but at least to their discomfort.
I highly recommend this novel to cozy mystery lovers, including those who like needle arts and a delightful cast of characters.
One of my "likes" is how Betsy's guy Connor listens when she bounces ideas off of him and doesn't criticize. He also sits in with the Monday Bunch and knits along with those making animals for the auction. Betsy is open and caring, a true friend to those around her.
The mystery is complex with several variables. Even so, I entertained the idea that...the real bad guy or bad gal was exactly who it turned out to be, but couldn't come up with means or opportunity. And of course, one person had to be behind the murders, and that likely suspect is one who Betsy is convinced is innocent.
This is a realistic picture of some property management/ development/ construction "moguls". Thankfully the folks I worked for never resorted to murder! but I did see the extreme competition and reactions. Right down to how some of the contractors are treated. Again, not to the detriment of others, but at least to their discomfort.
I highly recommend this novel to cozy mystery lovers, including those who like needle arts and a delightful cast of characters.
October 8, 2017
i enjoy this series very much. the mysteries are fairly benign, and easy to follow. some red herrings are thrown out, but not so many that the plot gets confusing. Betsy is a woman "of a certain age", set in her ways to an extent, and no more brilliant than she needs to be (meaning she's no Sherlock Holmes or Adrian Monk). i don't stitch, but i can follow most of the talk around the table during the Monday Bunch's stitching sessions, and the patterns included in the book look interesting.
that being said, the thing i enjoy most about this series is the personal growth experienced by the main characters. in the course of this series, several have fallen in love, gone on to have families, lost loved ones. others have been duped by ones they thought loved them, and some have denied themselves the happiness they rightly deserve.
i look forward to reading more of Betsy's exploits, and to following Goddy's adventures with Rafael. i hope Ms Ferris has many more books planned, for many more years to come.
that being said, the thing i enjoy most about this series is the personal growth experienced by the main characters. in the course of this series, several have fallen in love, gone on to have families, lost loved ones. others have been duped by ones they thought loved them, and some have denied themselves the happiness they rightly deserve.
i look forward to reading more of Betsy's exploits, and to following Goddy's adventures with Rafael. i hope Ms Ferris has many more books planned, for many more years to come.
March 3, 2021
I'm going to miss this series. This final book was much better than the two before it. It went back to the original feel of the series being about the close group of crafters and being centered around the shop. I know the final three books came out after the author's death and, I assume, were finished by someone else. It took them a couple tries to get the correct feel of the series and I'm sorry to see it end.
I will make one final comment. While there isn't always something to tell you the exact year the story is taking place, it is clear it is near the publication date. I found it odd that in this book there were comments by the some of the police officers - the only real characters I felt didn't make the transition from author to author well - about women not belonging in the police force. Those comments seemed at odds in a book that also has a couple planning a same sex wedding. One seemed very 1980, while the other was closer to the 2016 when the book was published. I realize not everyone agrees with everything, but the way the comments were stated were outdated.
I will make one final comment. While there isn't always something to tell you the exact year the story is taking place, it is clear it is near the publication date. I found it odd that in this book there were comments by the some of the police officers - the only real characters I felt didn't make the transition from author to author well - about women not belonging in the police force. Those comments seemed at odds in a book that also has a couple planning a same sex wedding. One seemed very 1980, while the other was closer to the 2016 when the book was published. I realize not everyone agrees with everything, but the way the comments were stated were outdated.
February 14, 2022
Oh my it’s hard to accept that I have come to the end of these Needlecraft Mystery book series. I have enjoyed the series as a whole. I am a needle crafter and so enjoyed the art references in each book. I have even learned some new tips and techniques from this series. I found another book Susan Boyce narrated titled Lost Books and Old Bones by Paige Shelton. It is also a mystery series and I am hoping Susan continues narrating. It is strange to hear “Betsy Devonshire” as another character and Susan even uses the same voice of Godwin for the new character Joshua and it fits!!! I am happy that Knit Your Own Murder brought Betsy and Godwin into a good ending place. A good read and a happy place to leave these beloved characters.
February 1, 2023
Another mystery mixed in with way too much personal life of the main characters - and I did not CARE about that crap. I'm glad this is the end because the binge was taking longer than I wanted and now I can call it done.
I enjoyed reading the books and, assuming the narrator is a good one, might listen were more to ever come in the future. I'm glad Ruth introduced me to the series.
The mysteries were mostly fun. The characters, when the main characters were in play, were mostly fun. There was some seriously old-fashioned thoughts in the book, but I guess that's what happens when you have an "old" main character. The needlecraft information was really interesting - I learned a lot about various techniques and things I've never heard of.
I enjoyed reading the books and, assuming the narrator is a good one, might listen were more to ever come in the future. I'm glad Ruth introduced me to the series.
The mysteries were mostly fun. The characters, when the main characters were in play, were mostly fun. There was some seriously old-fashioned thoughts in the book, but I guess that's what happens when you have an "old" main character. The needlecraft information was really interesting - I learned a lot about various techniques and things I've never heard of.
November 10, 2023
This is the 19th and last book written from the Needlecraft mysteries. The Monday Bunch have gathered to make stuffed animals and toys for a fundraising auction to save a Community Centre.
There are other knitters as well participating in the auction, including wealthy business woman Maddie O’Leary Suddenly Maddie collapses and dies halfway through the event. Later, the coroner rules her death from poisoning. Also Betsy Devonshire’s boyfriend Conor is violently ill at the same event. The prime suspect in Maddie’s murder is rival businessman Joe Mickels who lost a bitterly contested property bid to Maddie.
Meanwhile Betsy has her doubts that Joe was involved and decides to investigate. Not a bad mystery, and the surprise ending when the killers were revealed. I have enjoyed the series for the most part, I loved the characters especially Godwin & Sophie.
There are other knitters as well participating in the auction, including wealthy business woman Maddie O’Leary Suddenly Maddie collapses and dies halfway through the event. Later, the coroner rules her death from poisoning. Also Betsy Devonshire’s boyfriend Conor is violently ill at the same event. The prime suspect in Maddie’s murder is rival businessman Joe Mickels who lost a bitterly contested property bid to Maddie.
Meanwhile Betsy has her doubts that Joe was involved and decides to investigate. Not a bad mystery, and the surprise ending when the killers were revealed. I have enjoyed the series for the most part, I loved the characters especially Godwin & Sophie.
February 25, 2018
I love this series about a needlework shop owner who also solves murders. The stories are interesting as are the members of the community around the shop. I enjoy these books particularly when I want a quick read, page turner during busy times. They are relaxing, easy to pick up stories about a nice woman who owns a needlework shop. There are also always references to designers, supplies and needlework items which lead me off to my local shops in search of what sound like items I might be interested in seeing. Looking forward to the next edition of the series as I was startled to see this is the 19th in the series which just flies by.
March 19, 2022
The first ten or so books in this series are a lot of fun. The last few, particularly 18 (HORRIBLE) and this one are written by a completely different person. This book supposedly wraps up the series by focusing more on the personal lives of the characters, but I candidly wish I had never read it. The way the new writer sees these characters is so completely different from the way the original author treated them that I cannot trust the way she describes their fates. Everything the first author saw as a positive characteristic the new author seems to find a negative and vice versa, and she “wraps up” their stories through the same lens. Just such a shame.
November 13, 2018
This is the first book I've read by Ms. Ferris. I listened to the audible audio which was very well read, therefore the one star but I felt the mystery was lost on the dilemma of a gay relationship throughout the book. Was not sure what it had to do with the story unless it was the author's intent to attract gay knitters to her readership. It just didn't fit. It felt disjointed. I've enjoyed other knitting mysteries/story series better. May try to read another of her books to see it was just this one I didn't enjoy.
October 2, 2020
A well crafted mystery that kept my interest and with not too much re-hashing of clues so common in this type of series. The characters are also realistic and likable.
The editing however was horrible. Explanations of on-going points or characters in the series came pages or chapters after they were first introduced and sometimes were explained twice. Abrupt changes of scene made me wonder what was taken out and needlework projects were described with absolutely no connection to the story like they were added to get more needlework in the story. Ferris has been better.
The editing however was horrible. Explanations of on-going points or characters in the series came pages or chapters after they were first introduced and sometimes were explained twice. Abrupt changes of scene made me wonder what was taken out and needlework projects were described with absolutely no connection to the story like they were added to get more needlework in the story. Ferris has been better.
September 15, 2025
The solution to what happened had a bit of an Agatha Christie vibe, so I enjoyed that.
What I was trying to sort out after reading it was whether the series was complete or not. The ending of book didn't feel like a true series closure of a series, but it was a decent ending without a cliff hanger. Doing a bit of snooping, I believe the author is still living. However, I think due to her age (and perhaps other issues), she stopped writing and Knit Your Own Murder is the last in this series.
What I was trying to sort out after reading it was whether the series was complete or not. The ending of book didn't feel like a true series closure of a series, but it was a decent ending without a cliff hanger. Doing a bit of snooping, I believe the author is still living. However, I think due to her age (and perhaps other issues), she stopped writing and Knit Your Own Murder is the last in this series.
August 20, 2017
After two business owners have a bidding war, they both wind up dead and the third bidder, Betsy's former landlord and sometimes foe asks her to help look into the case as he is the top suspect. I love the Needlecraft cozy mystery stories. I love middle-aged Betsy and the supporting cast of characters. This is the last book in the series, written in 2016, and I sure hope Monica Ferris keeps going because these people feel like my family!
May 11, 2020
The Monday Bunch is knitting toy animals for a charity auction. While sitting at the head table, Maddy O'Leary suddenly dies. Connor and Betsy become sick when they touch Maddy's things. They discover that Maddy's yarn had been doused with liquid nicotine. Then Harry Whiteside is murdered. Betsy sets off to clear the name of Joe who has been charged with the murders. The author throws an amazing end to this story.
January 17, 2023
These are just too charming to pass up! Monica Ferris' needlecraft mysteries are becoming a comfort read for me. Literally blew through it in 3 days. The perfect little endearing mystery.
A local toy charity auction is underway when one of the participants croaks right in the middle of the event. Of course good 'ol sleuthing Betsy starts to investigate. It isn't long until another community member ends up dead. Is a serial killer on the loose or is it two unrelated deaths?!
A local toy charity auction is underway when one of the participants croaks right in the middle of the event. Of course good 'ol sleuthing Betsy starts to investigate. It isn't long until another community member ends up dead. Is a serial killer on the loose or is it two unrelated deaths?!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 166 reviews