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A Study Club Cozy Murder Mystery #1
You Can't Get Blood Out of Shag Carpet
Wanda Jean Milton discovers her husband, local exterminator Hilton Milton, dead on her new shag carpet with an Old Hickory carving knife sticking out of his chest. Beside herself over how she’ll remove the stain, and grief-stricken over Hilton’s demise, Wanda Jean finds herself the prime suspect in the case. But she is also a member of “the” local Study Club, a bastion of independent Texas feminism 1960s style. Club President Clara Wyler has no intention of allowing a member to be a murder suspect during her administration. Aided by her younger sister and County Clerk, Mae Ella Gormley; Sugar Watson, the proprietress of Sugar’s Style and Spray; and Wilma Schneider, Army MASH veteran and local RN, the Club women set out to clear Wanda Jean’s name — never guessing the local dirt they’ll uncover in the process.
194 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 17, 2015
47 people are currently reading
283 people want to read
About the author
Juliette Harper
78 books809 followersJuliette Harper is the pen name used by the writing team of Patricia Pauletti and Rana K. Williamson. As a writer, Juliette's goal is to create strong female characters facing interesting, challenging, painful, and at times comical situations. Refusing to be bound by genre, her primary interest lies in telling good stories.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 56 reviews
June 21, 2015
Murder mystery and fantastically written female friendship. Juliette Harper seems to be am expert in this. Ever since I read the first book in Langston's Legacy, her other series, I've already been a fan. When I'm looking for a fast and yet, still satisfying read, I read a book from Juliette Harper. That's why I was so excited when I found out that there'll be a new series from her. In the same genre!! And I love how Juliette Harper still delivers!
You Can't Get Blood Out of Shag Carpet was such a big surprise! I honestly did not expect it to be so hilarious and thrilling at the same time. The first chapter might be one of the most intriguing first chapter that I've ever read. I already found out that somebody was found dead and that somebody is already a suspect. And the carpet talk also started. Is it true that You Can't Get Blood Out of Shag Carpet? You have to read to find out.
The Study Club was also introduced and its members and I don't care that I've not of age, I really want an in. Every lady in the club looks like a delight to know to. They really seem to have each others back even though one of them is a suspect in a murder case. They solve mysteries in the most sass ways while they're still being a riot. Every character have her own thing and you'll instantly feel like you want to know them alll. Juliette Harper is really the best when it comes to writing such endearing characters.
I cannot wait for more of The Study Club ladies! I was totally invested in the whole mystery in here and its terrific how Harper made a very unpredictable plot with a murder in it but still, keeping it light and funny.
You Can't Get Blood Out of Shag Carpet was such a big surprise! I honestly did not expect it to be so hilarious and thrilling at the same time. The first chapter might be one of the most intriguing first chapter that I've ever read. I already found out that somebody was found dead and that somebody is already a suspect. And the carpet talk also started. Is it true that You Can't Get Blood Out of Shag Carpet? You have to read to find out.
The Study Club was also introduced and its members and I don't care that I've not of age, I really want an in. Every lady in the club looks like a delight to know to. They really seem to have each others back even though one of them is a suspect in a murder case. They solve mysteries in the most sass ways while they're still being a riot. Every character have her own thing and you'll instantly feel like you want to know them alll. Juliette Harper is really the best when it comes to writing such endearing characters.
I cannot wait for more of The Study Club ladies! I was totally invested in the whole mystery in here and its terrific how Harper made a very unpredictable plot with a murder in it but still, keeping it light and funny.
November 17, 2017
This was a good one, tho I wasn't completely on board with the resolution. I thought the main characters (i.e., the officers of the Study Club) were a hoot, with a great mix of personalities. I totally enjoyed it being set in the 1960's. And, fortunately, I only ran across a few word/punctuation errors. I dug around for a sequel on Amazon, as the book indicated a pub date of 2016, but, sadly, didn't find one. Here's hoping that it still comes out.
June 25, 2015
http://www.njkinnysblog.com/2015/06/b...
Having read Juliette Harper's The Lockwood Legacy series, I am already in love with their writing style. Their books are fast paced, entertaining and capable to keep the reader bound until the very end.
Here too, the same can be said to be true. I loved this very funny, cozy mystery revolving around women that are members of the local Study Club. Wanda Jean is accused of her husband's murder but she was away buying groceries when he was stabbed with her carving knife. Bewildered, grief stricken and still not fully aware that her husband is dead, I was somewhat sorry to see her worrying about the loss of her new shag carpet which was ruined when her husband died on it rather than feeling the loss of her husband!
Filled with characters having confusing names (I was really confused who was who), You Can't Get Blood Out of Shag Carpet had me laughing at the antics of these ladies who are sticking together to help their study club comrade prove that she is not the killer. Slowly as they progress, it was interesting to see how a seemingly ideal town gave way to a place where people had secrets and dirty laundry hidden.
The writing style is simple, conversational and engaging. I enjoyed reading the book but still I feel that this book could have been made better. At some places, I just felt irritated with the characters who often seem to be trying too hard to be funny to the reader. Add their confusing names to the list. I was at a loss to make a picture in my mind about who was who.
The mystery is good and I loved the way the authors planned when to release the clues.
All in all, You Can't Get Blood Out of Shag Carpet is a light, funny and cozy mystery that can be enjoyed anytime and anywhere. 3.5 out of 5 to it and recommended to all lovers of cozy mysteries.
I received the book from the authors and the tour organizers and I am very thankful to them. The above review is my honest and unbiased opinion and in no way influenced.
Having read Juliette Harper's The Lockwood Legacy series, I am already in love with their writing style. Their books are fast paced, entertaining and capable to keep the reader bound until the very end.
Here too, the same can be said to be true. I loved this very funny, cozy mystery revolving around women that are members of the local Study Club. Wanda Jean is accused of her husband's murder but she was away buying groceries when he was stabbed with her carving knife. Bewildered, grief stricken and still not fully aware that her husband is dead, I was somewhat sorry to see her worrying about the loss of her new shag carpet which was ruined when her husband died on it rather than feeling the loss of her husband!
Filled with characters having confusing names (I was really confused who was who), You Can't Get Blood Out of Shag Carpet had me laughing at the antics of these ladies who are sticking together to help their study club comrade prove that she is not the killer. Slowly as they progress, it was interesting to see how a seemingly ideal town gave way to a place where people had secrets and dirty laundry hidden.
The writing style is simple, conversational and engaging. I enjoyed reading the book but still I feel that this book could have been made better. At some places, I just felt irritated with the characters who often seem to be trying too hard to be funny to the reader. Add their confusing names to the list. I was at a loss to make a picture in my mind about who was who.
The mystery is good and I loved the way the authors planned when to release the clues.
All in all, You Can't Get Blood Out of Shag Carpet is a light, funny and cozy mystery that can be enjoyed anytime and anywhere. 3.5 out of 5 to it and recommended to all lovers of cozy mysteries.
I received the book from the authors and the tour organizers and I am very thankful to them. The above review is my honest and unbiased opinion and in no way influenced.
June 18, 2015
Oh, how I enjoyed this little gem! It has all the ingredients I’m looking for in a cozy mystery – murder, humour, great characters, location and time period, just the right length, plus a mystery that keeps you guessing right up to the satisfying end.
Not to mention great writing too! Coming naturally from the setting and the characters, humour bleeds out of the pages like, well, out of a stabbed corpse and onto a shag pile carpet.
When Wanda Jean Milton finds her husband, Hilton Milton, stabbed to death with her best carving knife and bleeding all over her brand new shag pile carpet, she doesn’t expect to be the prime suspect in his murder. Luckily for Wanda Jean, she’s a member of the local women’s Study Club (no one seems to know what, exactly, they study, but no man would dare ask), and Club President Clara Wyler is not about to put up with the situation. Rallying the eclectic Club members, they set out to investigate and deal with things – both finding the murderer, and deciding how one might possibly remove blood stains from a beige shag pile carpet.
Harper does a superb job of capturing the essence of small town Texan attitudes in the 60s, with the breathtaking hypocrisy endemic to an era when appearances were paramount and what went on behind closed doors stayed there, unseen and never discussed – except in private.
Drugs, gambling, cross-dressing, alcohol consumption in a ‘dry’ state, even - shock horror – a dancing preacher! They are all there, if you know where to look.
For those with a sense of humour, highly recommended.
I received this book in exchange for an honest review – all thoughts are my own.
Not to mention great writing too! Coming naturally from the setting and the characters, humour bleeds out of the pages like, well, out of a stabbed corpse and onto a shag pile carpet.
When Wanda Jean Milton finds her husband, Hilton Milton, stabbed to death with her best carving knife and bleeding all over her brand new shag pile carpet, she doesn’t expect to be the prime suspect in his murder. Luckily for Wanda Jean, she’s a member of the local women’s Study Club (no one seems to know what, exactly, they study, but no man would dare ask), and Club President Clara Wyler is not about to put up with the situation. Rallying the eclectic Club members, they set out to investigate and deal with things – both finding the murderer, and deciding how one might possibly remove blood stains from a beige shag pile carpet.
Harper does a superb job of capturing the essence of small town Texan attitudes in the 60s, with the breathtaking hypocrisy endemic to an era when appearances were paramount and what went on behind closed doors stayed there, unseen and never discussed – except in private.
Drugs, gambling, cross-dressing, alcohol consumption in a ‘dry’ state, even - shock horror – a dancing preacher! They are all there, if you know where to look.
For those with a sense of humour, highly recommended.
I received this book in exchange for an honest review – all thoughts are my own.
dropped
August 28, 2022The mindset of the '60s doesn't really agree with me. The too exaggerated and unrealistic humor doesn't either.
June 16, 2015
Since I tend to read a lot of books that fall under the darker side of thrillers and mysteries I like to lighten it up every so often with either a good romance or something quirky and funny. You Can't Get Blood Out of Shag Carpet was the perfect choice and an excellent cozy mystery that I devoured in just one sitting!
The story is set in the 60's and centers around a group of Texan women who belong to a Study Club, what do they study? I still have no idea! When one of the members is accused of killing her husband, club president Clara Wyler states that NO member of her study club will be going down for murder as long as she's in charge! The women decide to take matters into their own hands and investigate the local townsfolk and neighbors to determine who really stabbed Wanda Jean's husband with her Old Hickory carving knife. As their list of suspects continues to grow they soon learn that almost everyone in town is hiding some sort of sordid secret!
This book was absolutely hysterical right from page one! I'm not from the south but OMG I totally wish I was after reading this book :) I was so glad I didn't have to go anywhere the day I read this because I was laughing so hard I had tears in my eyes! Besides being truly funny You Can't Get Blood Out of Shag Carpet had several surprisingly good mysteries behind it. In the beginning I thought the outcome of the murder mystery was going to be fairly predictable as I was sure I knew who did it and why. As the story continues you realize there is SO much more going on than what you initially thought and I ended up being truly shocked once everything was revealed.
This is the first book in The Study Club cozy mystery series by Juliette Harper and I already can't wait for the next installment! If you're in the mood for a good old fashioned mystery with some seriously funny characters then this is definitely the book for you! I would absolutely recommend this to anyone and it would make a great Book Club read as well, I'm rating it 5/5 stars!
I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review, you can find my full review at http://mysocalledbookreviews.blogspot...
The story is set in the 60's and centers around a group of Texan women who belong to a Study Club, what do they study? I still have no idea! When one of the members is accused of killing her husband, club president Clara Wyler states that NO member of her study club will be going down for murder as long as she's in charge! The women decide to take matters into their own hands and investigate the local townsfolk and neighbors to determine who really stabbed Wanda Jean's husband with her Old Hickory carving knife. As their list of suspects continues to grow they soon learn that almost everyone in town is hiding some sort of sordid secret!
This book was absolutely hysterical right from page one! I'm not from the south but OMG I totally wish I was after reading this book :) I was so glad I didn't have to go anywhere the day I read this because I was laughing so hard I had tears in my eyes! Besides being truly funny You Can't Get Blood Out of Shag Carpet had several surprisingly good mysteries behind it. In the beginning I thought the outcome of the murder mystery was going to be fairly predictable as I was sure I knew who did it and why. As the story continues you realize there is SO much more going on than what you initially thought and I ended up being truly shocked once everything was revealed.
This is the first book in The Study Club cozy mystery series by Juliette Harper and I already can't wait for the next installment! If you're in the mood for a good old fashioned mystery with some seriously funny characters then this is definitely the book for you! I would absolutely recommend this to anyone and it would make a great Book Club read as well, I'm rating it 5/5 stars!
I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review, you can find my full review at http://mysocalledbookreviews.blogspot...
June 18, 2015
Wanda Jean Milton's husband is dead..with her best Old Hickory carving knife sticking out of his chest..on her new shag carpet. The police thinks that Wanda is a prime suspect. Study Club President Clara Wyler doesn't think so, and she is not going to allow one of her club members arrested while she leads the club. Club members Sugar, Mae Ella and Wilma join with Clara to find the murderer of Wanda's husband. While trying to solve the mystery, the team uncovers various dirty secrets of their town folk along the way.
The story is set in 1960s and it's really interesting to know the various beliefs that were prevailing at that time period. Even at that time, these study club ladies had been trying to be independent and to have a voice on their own in their household and society. That's some pretty great thing for the author to touch on. The story itself is simple, but with various subplots, each one as interesting as the other. Although this is a mystery, it's fun to read and had less thrill. This was both an advantage and a disadvantage. As the mystery element is not thrilling enough, when I completed the novel, it didn't feel like reading a mystery..at all, but like listening to a lot of gossips in a very short span of time. Which is fine with me.
The writing was good and the book is clean. This was my first read from this author, but it's definitely going to continue.
An interesting take on mystery genre!
4 STARS!
The story is set in 1960s and it's really interesting to know the various beliefs that were prevailing at that time period. Even at that time, these study club ladies had been trying to be independent and to have a voice on their own in their household and society. That's some pretty great thing for the author to touch on. The story itself is simple, but with various subplots, each one as interesting as the other. Although this is a mystery, it's fun to read and had less thrill. This was both an advantage and a disadvantage. As the mystery element is not thrilling enough, when I completed the novel, it didn't feel like reading a mystery..at all, but like listening to a lot of gossips in a very short span of time. Which is fine with me.
The writing was good and the book is clean. This was my first read from this author, but it's definitely going to continue.
An interesting take on mystery genre!
4 STARS!
June 7, 2015
No one is quite sure what the ladies in the Study Club study, but I'll tell you one thing: I sure want to be a member of the club.
You Can't Get Blood Out of Shag Carpet is the hilarious first book in Juliette Harper's Study Club Mystery series and I am absolutely hooked. Set in a small Texas town in the 1960's, the town gossip is all about Hilton Milton, who was found stabbed to death in his home--on his wife Wanda Jean's brand new shag carpet to be exact. Study Club leader Clara Wyler is as concerned about the state of that shag carpet as she is about proving Wanda Jean's innocence. She enlists the help of the other Study Club members and soon the ladies have launched an investigation into the murder of Hilton, as well as the death of Wanda Jean's brother-in-law months before.
I really, really enjoyed this book. The ladies of the Study Club had me in stitches. Each character is painted with a unique brush and filled in with terrific detail. The canvas on which these characters play is vividly inviting and delightfully memorable. I can't wait for more adventures with these characters, this series, and this author.
You Can't Get Blood Out of Shag Carpet is the hilarious first book in Juliette Harper's Study Club Mystery series and I am absolutely hooked. Set in a small Texas town in the 1960's, the town gossip is all about Hilton Milton, who was found stabbed to death in his home--on his wife Wanda Jean's brand new shag carpet to be exact. Study Club leader Clara Wyler is as concerned about the state of that shag carpet as she is about proving Wanda Jean's innocence. She enlists the help of the other Study Club members and soon the ladies have launched an investigation into the murder of Hilton, as well as the death of Wanda Jean's brother-in-law months before.
I really, really enjoyed this book. The ladies of the Study Club had me in stitches. Each character is painted with a unique brush and filled in with terrific detail. The canvas on which these characters play is vividly inviting and delightfully memorable. I can't wait for more adventures with these characters, this series, and this author.
August 23, 2015
Free Thinking Women of the 60's
A light-hearted mystery farce which was an enjoyable afternoon read. Great characters abound! This was a fascinating glimpse into the lives of a group of very different women bound together to clear one of the Study Club accused of murder. The way that they accomplished this is quite entertaining. Good read!
A light-hearted mystery farce which was an enjoyable afternoon read. Great characters abound! This was a fascinating glimpse into the lives of a group of very different women bound together to clear one of the Study Club accused of murder. The way that they accomplished this is quite entertaining. Good read!
January 12, 2019
Fun!
A 1960's small town Texas ladies group, gets together to prove the innocence of one of their members in the murder of her husband. Hijinks ensue and big secrets come to light. I wasn't sure of the murderer until near the end! Funny, outrageous, and a real feel for life in a small southern town.
A 1960's small town Texas ladies group, gets together to prove the innocence of one of their members in the murder of her husband. Hijinks ensue and big secrets come to light. I wasn't sure of the murderer until near the end! Funny, outrageous, and a real feel for life in a small southern town.
June 28, 2020
A must read especially if you lived in the 60's
Hilarious, great character with snappy, witty, and sarcastic personalities. Twists and turns, to find that who really done it. Could not put this book down Juliette Harper out done herself yet again, can't wait for the next in this series.
Hilarious, great character with snappy, witty, and sarcastic personalities. Twists and turns, to find that who really done it. Could not put this book down Juliette Harper out done herself yet again, can't wait for the next in this series.
March 23, 2025
After giggling my way through this fun slice of 60s Texas small-town cozy mystery, I was gutted when I discovered the sequel was never released. As I'm ten years behind it looks like it never will be now which is such a shame because I think it may have just been a little ahead of its time.
I think these would go down a bomb in 2025 when we all need more laughter.
I think these would go down a bomb in 2025 when we all need more laughter.
October 30, 2019
One of the funniest things I've read in years
This was a wonderful book. I loved the 60s references, the cigarette humor, the Texas conservatives, the Baptists. It was like being back in Texas, but funnier. I look forward to the next one.
This was a wonderful book. I loved the 60s references, the cigarette humor, the Texas conservatives, the Baptists. It was like being back in Texas, but funnier. I look forward to the next one.
December 18, 2017
I loved this, I am hoping for another Study Club mystery
October 25, 2018
Goofy and Funny
Loved the "Study Club's" adventures and how they solved everything. I've known ladies like these and enjoyed their portrayal in this book. Great fun.
Loved the "Study Club's" adventures and how they solved everything. I've known ladies like these and enjoyed their portrayal in this book. Great fun.
March 3, 2019
This book was a hoot to read. Having spent 20 years in Texas, I could visualize these women and I was sure I had met some of them. It was laugh-out-loud funny at times.
August 12, 2021
Loved reading this book very entertaining
July 3, 2021
Full disclosure: I was enjoying this book by the end of the first page. After the first chapter I thought ‘there’s no way the author can keep up this momentum’. By the end of the second I'd decided I was going to be following this series.
The book is comedy gold. Set in Texas on the cusp of the 70s’ (the time period with big hair and the state with big everything), the setting and people are rich with character. I can’t even find the words to tell you how amazing it is. I had a big smile on my face the entire time I was reading. And despite it being funny as hell, it’s a down-to-earth humor that leaves you nodding along because you know where it’s coming from. Like how the victim was killed with his wife’s best knife on their brand new deep shag carpet and the first concern the other women have is ‘what color was the new carpet’. A death in the family has an associated pageantry to follow - motions to go through - but bloodstains on a beige shag carpet are an issue that’s going to take some serious problem solving skills. And you know she’s never going to be able to use that knife again, and it’s such a shame because those are damn good knives.
The plot takes us in several directions and for once that I didn't mind in the least. The killer was a surprise, and the author did such a damn good job at using the Insanity Defense trope that they might not even bother with a trial and just lock them up at the mental hospital. The ending scene not only made me smile, but genuinely got me laughing and giggling for a while afterword. The writing in and of itself was a delight.
The characters have varied opinions on the hot button topics of the time, and some opinions are funny and some get a little uncomfortable. Homosexuality comes up a lot, as well as DDT and the Kennedys/politics, and also racism, feminism, recreational marijuana, and spousal abuse.
CHARACTERS:
All around aces.
SETTING/WORLD BUILDING:
Fantastic job, A+.
PLOT/SOLUTION:
The plot was strong and tricky, and the solution was satisfying and managed to tied up the misdirection-plots as well.
OTHER ASPECTS:
Insanity Defense trope done right, and it got some laughs out of me.
THE VERDICT?
I was devastated to find out this was the only book out so far in the series. I sincerely hope the next one can reach the bar Shag Carpet has set.
The book is comedy gold. Set in Texas on the cusp of the 70s’ (the time period with big hair and the state with big everything), the setting and people are rich with character. I can’t even find the words to tell you how amazing it is. I had a big smile on my face the entire time I was reading. And despite it being funny as hell, it’s a down-to-earth humor that leaves you nodding along because you know where it’s coming from. Like how the victim was killed with his wife’s best knife on their brand new deep shag carpet and the first concern the other women have is ‘what color was the new carpet’. A death in the family has an associated pageantry to follow - motions to go through - but bloodstains on a beige shag carpet are an issue that’s going to take some serious problem solving skills. And you know she’s never going to be able to use that knife again, and it’s such a shame because those are damn good knives.
The plot takes us in several directions and for once that I didn't mind in the least. The killer was a surprise, and the author did such a damn good job at using the Insanity Defense trope that they might not even bother with a trial and just lock them up at the mental hospital. The ending scene not only made me smile, but genuinely got me laughing and giggling for a while afterword. The writing in and of itself was a delight.
The characters have varied opinions on the hot button topics of the time, and some opinions are funny and some get a little uncomfortable. Homosexuality comes up a lot, as well as DDT and the Kennedys/politics, and also racism, feminism, recreational marijuana, and spousal abuse.
CHARACTERS:
All around aces.
SETTING/WORLD BUILDING:
Fantastic job, A+.
PLOT/SOLUTION:
The plot was strong and tricky, and the solution was satisfying and managed to tied up the misdirection-plots as well.
OTHER ASPECTS:
Insanity Defense trope done right, and it got some laughs out of me.
THE VERDICT?
I was devastated to find out this was the only book out so far in the series. I sincerely hope the next one can reach the bar Shag Carpet has set.
July 25, 2015
My review also available here: https://fangirlsreaditfirst.wordpress...
I’d like to thank author Juliette Harper for letting me read and review her novel, You Can’t Get Blood Out of Shag Carpet: A Study Club Cozy Murder Mystery.
Wanda Jean’s husband died on their shag carpet with a knife in his chest. Now local police are looking only at Wanda Jean as the killer. But not if her friends in the Study Club can help it. Club President Carla Wyler sets the club to work trying to find the real killer in their small town.
This book was a short read but it went slowly. There were was a huge cast of characters to keep straight, a different time period as the setting, and many, many different mysteries and secrets kept in town.
The novel was set in the 1960s and the differences in the time from then and now were amusing to read. I thought the author did a good job capturing that time period down to the smallest details from whispering about the Kennedy elections and cross-dressing, to perms and cat-eye glasses.
This was a southern mystery. The town seemed very backward, but it also could have been the time period. Carla and the club are very pro feminist rights and have quite a bit of futuristic ideas, but are also easily shocked by “bedroom activities” and the subject of homosexuality. It was interesting to watch these women uncover all of the mysteries in their small town.
Carla was a fascinating forward thinking character. She wasn’t afraid to stand up for her rights and the rights of other women. Even though her Study Club didn’t actually study anything, they still explored a vast range of political, social, and religious issues. I liked how much she educated other members, but never tried to change them, and applauded who they were – hairdressers, nurses, and housewives alike.
This book was very different from other Juliette Harper books I have read in the past. Where most of those were romantic suspense books, this was very much a novel for women and about women, with a mystery tying it all together.
I enjoyed this book and look forward to more mysteries in this series.
Rating: 3 out of 5 stars.
I’d like to thank author Juliette Harper for letting me read and review her novel, You Can’t Get Blood Out of Shag Carpet: A Study Club Cozy Murder Mystery.
Wanda Jean’s husband died on their shag carpet with a knife in his chest. Now local police are looking only at Wanda Jean as the killer. But not if her friends in the Study Club can help it. Club President Carla Wyler sets the club to work trying to find the real killer in their small town.
This book was a short read but it went slowly. There were was a huge cast of characters to keep straight, a different time period as the setting, and many, many different mysteries and secrets kept in town.
The novel was set in the 1960s and the differences in the time from then and now were amusing to read. I thought the author did a good job capturing that time period down to the smallest details from whispering about the Kennedy elections and cross-dressing, to perms and cat-eye glasses.
This was a southern mystery. The town seemed very backward, but it also could have been the time period. Carla and the club are very pro feminist rights and have quite a bit of futuristic ideas, but are also easily shocked by “bedroom activities” and the subject of homosexuality. It was interesting to watch these women uncover all of the mysteries in their small town.
Carla was a fascinating forward thinking character. She wasn’t afraid to stand up for her rights and the rights of other women. Even though her Study Club didn’t actually study anything, they still explored a vast range of political, social, and religious issues. I liked how much she educated other members, but never tried to change them, and applauded who they were – hairdressers, nurses, and housewives alike.
This book was very different from other Juliette Harper books I have read in the past. Where most of those were romantic suspense books, this was very much a novel for women and about women, with a mystery tying it all together.
I enjoyed this book and look forward to more mysteries in this series.
Rating: 3 out of 5 stars.
June 18, 2015
In ‘You Can’t Get Blood Out of a Shag Carpet’ we meet the ladies of the local Study Club Clara, Mae Ella, Sugar, Wilma and Wanda Jean. Wanda Jean has been accused of murdering her own husband with an Old Hickory carving knife on her brand new Shag Carpet. Since Clara has no intention of allowing a member of the club to be a murder suspect she decides to get all the ladies of the study club together to start their own investigation.
To be honest it took me a little while to get into this story. ‘You Can’t Get Blood Out of a Shag Carpet’ is definitely not an everyday kind of read. This book takes place in the sixties and there are a lot of characters who have a part in this story. Since I’m not very good with names, this made this read a little difficult in the beginning because I kept forgetting who everybody was. But since it’s such a different, funny and sometimes just weird story I kept on reading. And I’m glad I did.
There are some really fun parts in this book, or to be honest this book is just funny all the way. I honestly am in awe of Juliette Harper just being able to write this kind of book. ‘You Can’t Get Blood Out of a Shag Carpet’ takes place in a little Texas city in the sixties. There is a lot of gossip in this town. Everyone knows everything about each other, at least that is was the Study Club ladies always thought.
The interactions between the Study Club ladies are just hilarious. They all have their own opinions and they are not scared to tell people what they think. Since they are investigating a murder this leads to some very fun encounters.
The mystery in this book is very enjoyable, even if it seems to be a little on the background because of the amazing and fun Study Club ladies. I was definitely surprised at the end of the book when the murderer was revealed.
‘You Can’t Get Blood Out of a Shag Carpet’ is just the first book in the series and I really enjoyed. I definitely recommend this book if you’re looking for a different and fun cozy mystery.
To be honest it took me a little while to get into this story. ‘You Can’t Get Blood Out of a Shag Carpet’ is definitely not an everyday kind of read. This book takes place in the sixties and there are a lot of characters who have a part in this story. Since I’m not very good with names, this made this read a little difficult in the beginning because I kept forgetting who everybody was. But since it’s such a different, funny and sometimes just weird story I kept on reading. And I’m glad I did.
There are some really fun parts in this book, or to be honest this book is just funny all the way. I honestly am in awe of Juliette Harper just being able to write this kind of book. ‘You Can’t Get Blood Out of a Shag Carpet’ takes place in a little Texas city in the sixties. There is a lot of gossip in this town. Everyone knows everything about each other, at least that is was the Study Club ladies always thought.
The interactions between the Study Club ladies are just hilarious. They all have their own opinions and they are not scared to tell people what they think. Since they are investigating a murder this leads to some very fun encounters.
The mystery in this book is very enjoyable, even if it seems to be a little on the background because of the amazing and fun Study Club ladies. I was definitely surprised at the end of the book when the murderer was revealed.
‘You Can’t Get Blood Out of a Shag Carpet’ is just the first book in the series and I really enjoyed. I definitely recommend this book if you’re looking for a different and fun cozy mystery.
June 26, 2015
This is hysterical. This group of ladies are a hoot and how they go about helping Wanda Jean and solving the murder of her husband will crack you up. And the focus on the shag carpet is too much. I can say these ladies are a force of nature and I would not want to get on their bad side. Wanda Jean’s husband is murdered on STudy Club day and she is charged with murder. Her club ladies don’t stand for this especially when they hear about the shag carpet so they go on a mission to find the murderer for Lester the sheriff only wants to fish. How do they go about this in the 60’s in a small town in Texas? Well through the gossip mill of course. The mill at Sugar’s hair salon where Aqua Net rules the roost with the bouffants. We learn with the help of Sugar and Flowers her nail specialist about Wanda Jeans sisters and Harry the assistant sheriff. We learn through Mike the pot growing agriculture guy about the fire and more about Wanda Jean’s husband Hilton. We learn even more from the editor Hilton learns about Orchids from. We learn that Hilton loved his Hanes and wanted control tops. We also learn Hilton loved his wife and was a good guy and the reason he was killed is insane. Along the way arson plots are uncovered, loveless marriages are seen and gossip galore is there and the twist of who committed the murder was a wow. This group of ladies are just entertainment to read about. How they help each other and go about solving the murder is hysterical. They are awesome. This isn’t a book with hidden lessons or one that is meant to give you emotional feelings. It is just a fun entertaining mystery with a group of ladies that will crack you up. It’s light hearted and fun with snark added in for good measure. There is no thinking needed just a book to enjoy as you laugh at the antics and the things they find out. A truly entertaining and fun mystery that keeps you smiling and laughing all the through the whole book as you follow these ladies through the gossip of the town and figure out what really happened to Hilton and why.
July 8, 2015
For a more in-depth review about the characters and some hilarious quotes, visit my blog: https://girlof1000wonders.wordpress.c...
This book is a spin-off series of The Lockwood Legacy. It features who I called the “old ladies” in Alice’s Portrait. Even though The Lockwood Legacy was published first, this first installment in the Study Club actually happens at least four decades before the Lockwood girls return to their little Texas town.
The ladies – backbones of society, I suppose you could say – have formed a Study Club. It’s 1968. They really don’t study much except town events, as far as I could tell, but it sure does come in handy when one of their own is labeled a murderer.
These are some tough Texas gals, and they won’t stand for the arrest of Wanda Jean. Since the local law enforcement seems very lax in duties, the women take the investigation into their own hands and discover things about Hilton Milton’s life – and those he was involved with – that are getting really fishy.
Societal proprieties sometimes go by the wayside when you’re investigating a small town murder! More than one mystery is solved in this first installment of A Study Club Mystery series.
The book does not lack for humor. These women are hilarious and have no problem getting straight to the point. The relationships between the women are very tight knit and realistic. Each of the main women of the book, and even the secondary characters, are given a little spotlight at some point in the book in which backgrounds and particulars are given to readers.
This book is a spin-off series of The Lockwood Legacy. It features who I called the “old ladies” in Alice’s Portrait. Even though The Lockwood Legacy was published first, this first installment in the Study Club actually happens at least four decades before the Lockwood girls return to their little Texas town.
The ladies – backbones of society, I suppose you could say – have formed a Study Club. It’s 1968. They really don’t study much except town events, as far as I could tell, but it sure does come in handy when one of their own is labeled a murderer.
These are some tough Texas gals, and they won’t stand for the arrest of Wanda Jean. Since the local law enforcement seems very lax in duties, the women take the investigation into their own hands and discover things about Hilton Milton’s life – and those he was involved with – that are getting really fishy.
Societal proprieties sometimes go by the wayside when you’re investigating a small town murder! More than one mystery is solved in this first installment of A Study Club Mystery series.
The book does not lack for humor. These women are hilarious and have no problem getting straight to the point. The relationships between the women are very tight knit and realistic. Each of the main women of the book, and even the secondary characters, are given a little spotlight at some point in the book in which backgrounds and particulars are given to readers.
August 1, 2015
I would like to thank Juliette Harper for allowing me to read an ARC of this book for an open and honest review.
This is a fantastically witty and enjoyable cosy crime! Really my sort of thing done to a T! I do love a cosy crime that doesn’t take itself too seriously and isn’t all about police procedure specifics and gore… probably why they’re called ‘cosy’ and not ‘real’ crime?
Set in West Texas and in the late 1960’s this story is just too funny while still meeting the cosy crime criteria. I can’t honestly say for sure exactly how historically accurate it is… but that really doesn’t matter. It’s not a requirement when enjoying such a book.
I will admit the humour did get laid on a little too thick in places and the plot screamed to a halt due to it – and I do like my plots to keep going – and that’s why I couldn’t give it 5 out of 5 stars. It just came across that they needed to pad it out a bit and squeeze a few more tongue in cheek moments in before we could get to the point. Not a biggie though, still a fantastic story.
Would I recommend this book to others? Yes! I have been doing so already and I really look forward to reading more from this series and possibly checking out more from this author duo. I like their writing style, their humour and their storytelling.
Would I buy this book? Yes, see above. :-) Cosy crimes are my favourite sub-genre of crime fiction and this book (and others in the series no doubt) would have pride of place on both my physical and virtual bookshelves.
If you are a fan of cosy crime, of light hearted humorous tales and an enjoyable read when curled up on the couch – you will enjoy this book. Loved it and definitely recommend.
This is a fantastically witty and enjoyable cosy crime! Really my sort of thing done to a T! I do love a cosy crime that doesn’t take itself too seriously and isn’t all about police procedure specifics and gore… probably why they’re called ‘cosy’ and not ‘real’ crime?
Set in West Texas and in the late 1960’s this story is just too funny while still meeting the cosy crime criteria. I can’t honestly say for sure exactly how historically accurate it is… but that really doesn’t matter. It’s not a requirement when enjoying such a book.
I will admit the humour did get laid on a little too thick in places and the plot screamed to a halt due to it – and I do like my plots to keep going – and that’s why I couldn’t give it 5 out of 5 stars. It just came across that they needed to pad it out a bit and squeeze a few more tongue in cheek moments in before we could get to the point. Not a biggie though, still a fantastic story.
Would I recommend this book to others? Yes! I have been doing so already and I really look forward to reading more from this series and possibly checking out more from this author duo. I like their writing style, their humour and their storytelling.
Would I buy this book? Yes, see above. :-) Cosy crimes are my favourite sub-genre of crime fiction and this book (and others in the series no doubt) would have pride of place on both my physical and virtual bookshelves.
If you are a fan of cosy crime, of light hearted humorous tales and an enjoyable read when curled up on the couch – you will enjoy this book. Loved it and definitely recommend.
November 25, 2016
I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
Why I read it: My guilty pleasure is a good cozy mystery, they are just so fun and are very good at taking me out of my own head and into another world.
Plot: Set in the 60s, this novel is about a group of Texan women who form a Study Club (they study all the things it seems! And by study, mainly gossip?), led by Clara. When one of her ladies is accused of murder she will not stand for it; and makes it her and her Club's business to clear their friend's name.
Characters: All of the ladies are amazing, there isn't one I didn't like! They really enjoy their sleuthing and finding out about everyone's secrets, and gosh, what secrets they are. Of course the list of suspects just gets larger and larger the further we get into the story. I had NO IDEA who did it until we were close to it being revealed (I love it when that happens).
Style/Writing: The writing is great and this story is just so amusing, I was chuckling to myself as I read. I prefer it to the other book I have read by Harper but I think that's because this is a true cozy mystery.
Pros: The characters, the writing, the pacing was great too. It just flowed really well and is the type of book you can read in one sitting. And there's no romance!
Cons: None! :)
In Brief: A fun, light hearted cozy mystery, with a great mystery plot that will keep you guessing!
Why I read it: My guilty pleasure is a good cozy mystery, they are just so fun and are very good at taking me out of my own head and into another world.
Plot: Set in the 60s, this novel is about a group of Texan women who form a Study Club (they study all the things it seems! And by study, mainly gossip?), led by Clara. When one of her ladies is accused of murder she will not stand for it; and makes it her and her Club's business to clear their friend's name.
Characters: All of the ladies are amazing, there isn't one I didn't like! They really enjoy their sleuthing and finding out about everyone's secrets, and gosh, what secrets they are. Of course the list of suspects just gets larger and larger the further we get into the story. I had NO IDEA who did it until we were close to it being revealed (I love it when that happens).
Style/Writing: The writing is great and this story is just so amusing, I was chuckling to myself as I read. I prefer it to the other book I have read by Harper but I think that's because this is a true cozy mystery.
Pros: The characters, the writing, the pacing was great too. It just flowed really well and is the type of book you can read in one sitting. And there's no romance!
Cons: None! :)
In Brief: A fun, light hearted cozy mystery, with a great mystery plot that will keep you guessing!
August 31, 2015
This was a good story that made me laugh and surprised me with its various mysteries as it went along. I have never read anything by Juliette Harper so did not know what to expect.
The story is set in the 60's and centres around a group of Texan women who belong to a Study Club, what do they study? I still have no idea! There is talk of issues that were occuring during that time, i.e. Viet Nam War, the Kennedys and racial issues, but only in context, not a major part of the story but it makes it more realistic. When one of the Study Club members, Wanda Jean Hilton, is accused of killing her husband,Milton Hilton, club president Clara Wyler states that NO member of her study club will be going down for murder as long as she's in charge! The sheriff does not seem to interested in investigating, but would rather fish, so "The Wife Did It" seems appropriate to him. The women decide to take matters into their own hands and investigate the locals to determine who really stabbed Wanda Jean's husband with her Old Hickory carving knife. As they begin their investigation, they make a list of possible suspects and each time they talk to one of them, another "SECRET" comes to light.
This is the first book in The Study Club cozy mystery series by Juliette Harper and I already can't wait for the next installment! If you're in the mood for a good old fashioned mystery with some seriously funny characters then this is definitely the book for you!
I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
The story is set in the 60's and centres around a group of Texan women who belong to a Study Club, what do they study? I still have no idea! There is talk of issues that were occuring during that time, i.e. Viet Nam War, the Kennedys and racial issues, but only in context, not a major part of the story but it makes it more realistic. When one of the Study Club members, Wanda Jean Hilton, is accused of killing her husband,Milton Hilton, club president Clara Wyler states that NO member of her study club will be going down for murder as long as she's in charge! The sheriff does not seem to interested in investigating, but would rather fish, so "The Wife Did It" seems appropriate to him. The women decide to take matters into their own hands and investigate the locals to determine who really stabbed Wanda Jean's husband with her Old Hickory carving knife. As they begin their investigation, they make a list of possible suspects and each time they talk to one of them, another "SECRET" comes to light.
This is the first book in The Study Club cozy mystery series by Juliette Harper and I already can't wait for the next installment! If you're in the mood for a good old fashioned mystery with some seriously funny characters then this is definitely the book for you!
I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
May 15, 2024
Some people might find this book kind of corny, but I thought it was laugh-out-loud funny. It was a delight to read. This is certainly a book that doesn't take itself seriously. If you want an easy read that is enjoyable with a bunch of characters, this is the book for you.
March 9, 2016
Full review now available on my blog: http://www.thewritinggreyhound.co.uk/...
I couldn't quite get a firm hold on the genre of this book. It is part homespun detective novel, part historical (reading some of the character's views on things which seem so commonplace nowadays was particularly entertaining) and part humour, all encased in a shell of chicklit fiction. That made it a bit confusing to start off with, but it didn't take long to get into the story and just enjoy it for what it is.
The Study Club ladies were all interesting, individual characters. Despite coming from a time when women were very much seen as below men in society, these women are feisty, independent ladies who aren't afraid to stick up for one of their own.
I did find some of the situations too unbelievable to be true (how many big secrets can one average Joe realistically have?) but coupled with the humour it was easy to take it with a pinch of salt. I mean think about it, when the dead guy's name is Hilton Milton, that kind of sets the precedent for the rest of the book.
Ultimately this is a quick, light-hearted read, but sadly I fear it's not one that will stick around in my memory for long.
I couldn't quite get a firm hold on the genre of this book. It is part homespun detective novel, part historical (reading some of the character's views on things which seem so commonplace nowadays was particularly entertaining) and part humour, all encased in a shell of chicklit fiction. That made it a bit confusing to start off with, but it didn't take long to get into the story and just enjoy it for what it is.
The Study Club ladies were all interesting, individual characters. Despite coming from a time when women were very much seen as below men in society, these women are feisty, independent ladies who aren't afraid to stick up for one of their own.
I did find some of the situations too unbelievable to be true (how many big secrets can one average Joe realistically have?) but coupled with the humour it was easy to take it with a pinch of salt. I mean think about it, when the dead guy's name is Hilton Milton, that kind of sets the precedent for the rest of the book.
Ultimately this is a quick, light-hearted read, but sadly I fear it's not one that will stick around in my memory for long.
August 30, 2015
Bless their hearts
I don't know if anyone who hasn't been blessed with the opportunity to listen in on a few conversations of a group of women of a certain age can possibly realize how perfect this is. It captures the judgemental open-mindedness, the spiteful generosity, the unbelieving forgiveness for imaginary (and real) sins, and so much more that can be found in such a group. These are the women that will have their future grandkids in terror of breaking the rules, who will also conspire to hide a sin or two from the parents. The grandma's who will holler and lambasted you....and then slip you a slice of bread with jam or a fried apple pie on the sly. These are the kind of women who magically combine being absolutely terrifying with being comforting and safe. The authors have managed to create larger than life characters that seem absolutely real. What utterly amazing s me is that these wonderful characters are provided with a surprise ending...I loved this and can't wait for more.
I don't know if anyone who hasn't been blessed with the opportunity to listen in on a few conversations of a group of women of a certain age can possibly realize how perfect this is. It captures the judgemental open-mindedness, the spiteful generosity, the unbelieving forgiveness for imaginary (and real) sins, and so much more that can be found in such a group. These are the women that will have their future grandkids in terror of breaking the rules, who will also conspire to hide a sin or two from the parents. The grandma's who will holler and lambasted you....and then slip you a slice of bread with jam or a fried apple pie on the sly. These are the kind of women who magically combine being absolutely terrifying with being comforting and safe. The authors have managed to create larger than life characters that seem absolutely real. What utterly amazing s me is that these wonderful characters are provided with a surprise ending...I loved this and can't wait for more.
June 24, 2017
I very rarely give up on a book but unfortunately, I haven't been able to finish this one. Everyone likes different books but after reading so many positive reviews, I'm hoping to give it another try one day just because I hate to leave a book unfinished! Maybe I was just not in the "cozy mystery" mood at the time...When I do so, I will edit my review.
June 23, 2015
Wow. This book. I just can’t even. It’s so hilariously over the top that it’s amazing. I love the Study Club girls and all of their personalities. They manage to uncover several crimes by gossip, southern manners and Aqua Net set in the 60’s with the accompanying values and stringent beliefs.
When I read the first chapter of this book, I was so worried how the rest of the book was going to turn out. I was very pleasantly surprised by how well the story made sense and was readable even with the over the top antics of the characters.
The rhyming names cracked me up. Wanda Jean, Maybelline and Dolene with Hilton Milton being notable favorites. The best part is that there are women like this in every single town in the South for sure if not all over the world. Southern women definitely are a breed unto themselves. Bless their hearts. LOL
Copy provided in exchange for review.
When I read the first chapter of this book, I was so worried how the rest of the book was going to turn out. I was very pleasantly surprised by how well the story made sense and was readable even with the over the top antics of the characters.
The rhyming names cracked me up. Wanda Jean, Maybelline and Dolene with Hilton Milton being notable favorites. The best part is that there are women like this in every single town in the South for sure if not all over the world. Southern women definitely are a breed unto themselves. Bless their hearts. LOL
Copy provided in exchange for review.
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