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Seaside Knitters Society #1
Murder Wears Mittens
As autumn washes over coastal Sea Harbor, Massachusetts, the Seaside Knitters anticipate a relaxing off-season. But when murder shatters the peace, the craftiest bunch in town must unravel a killer’s deadly scheme . . .
After retrieving fresh lobster nets from a local Laundromat, Cass Halloran rushes to attend a last-minute gathering with her knitting circle. But Cass can’t stop worrying about the lonely boy seen hanging around the dryers, and the school uniform he left behind in a hurry. When the ladies return the lost clothing the next day, they find the child and his younger sister alone, seemingly abandoned by their mother . . .
The knitters intend to facilitate a family reunion, not investigate a crime. But the death of Dolores Cardozo, a recluse from the edge of town, throws the group for a loop. Especially when the missing mother and one of their own become tied to the victim’s hidden fortune—and her murder . . .
Before scandalous secrets break bonds and rumors tear Sea Harbor apart, the Seaside Knitters need to string together the truth about Dolores—while preventing a greedy murderer from making another move!
* Includes a knitting pattern *
After retrieving fresh lobster nets from a local Laundromat, Cass Halloran rushes to attend a last-minute gathering with her knitting circle. But Cass can’t stop worrying about the lonely boy seen hanging around the dryers, and the school uniform he left behind in a hurry. When the ladies return the lost clothing the next day, they find the child and his younger sister alone, seemingly abandoned by their mother . . .
The knitters intend to facilitate a family reunion, not investigate a crime. But the death of Dolores Cardozo, a recluse from the edge of town, throws the group for a loop. Especially when the missing mother and one of their own become tied to the victim’s hidden fortune—and her murder . . .
Before scandalous secrets break bonds and rumors tear Sea Harbor apart, the Seaside Knitters need to string together the truth about Dolores—while preventing a greedy murderer from making another move!
* Includes a knitting pattern *
373 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 28, 2018
1325 people are currently reading
2036 people want to read
About the author
Sally Goldenbaum
38 books906 followersSally Goldenbaum is a philosophy teacher, knitter, editor, and the author of more than two-dozen novels.
Series:
* A Seaside Knitters Mystery
*
Series:
* A Seaside Knitters Mystery
*
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 283 reviews
August 13, 2017
Cass Halloran has returned to the laundromat to retrieve her lobster nets from the dryer when she finds someone has decided to dry some children's close in her load. Before she knows it a young boy enters the laundry to retrieve the clothes and Cass becomes concerned with why he is alone. Cass can't help but continue to worry and when she shares the encounter with the other Seaside Knitters the ladies decide to check on the boy.
When the group finds the boy along with his sister alone they do their best to reunite the children with their mother and think their job is done with the good deed. But then the body of Dolores Cardozo, a local recluse, is discovered and not only the mother of the children but even one of their own seem to have ties to Dolores so the group find themselves trying to uncover a murderer.
Opening up Murder Wears Mittens I became concerned when the first thing I see is a long list of characters that would be included letting the reader know who was who. I always cringe when I see something of this nature thinking the story should introduce me to whoever is in the book and get to know them so if this is needed then perhaps I won't enjoy the book. However, in this case it seems that these characters have been around for quite a while for this author with eleven other books in the A Seaside Knitters Mystery series. I was under the impression when I picked this one up that it was a brand new series, the Seaside Knitters Society, but this wasn't the case.
My rating on Murder Wears Mittens is basically due to the fact that jumping this far into an ongoing series leaves me feeling that I've missed a connection to the characters. The story was an alright cozy read it just didn't grab me as I would have liked and I believe if maybe I'd been reading and getting to know these characters from the beginning I would have been more connected to them with so many involved in the book. I may even try to eventually go back and read about these ladies from the beginning as it seems like it would be a nice small town cozy if I felt I could get to know them better in earlier reads.
I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.wordpress....
When the group finds the boy along with his sister alone they do their best to reunite the children with their mother and think their job is done with the good deed. But then the body of Dolores Cardozo, a local recluse, is discovered and not only the mother of the children but even one of their own seem to have ties to Dolores so the group find themselves trying to uncover a murderer.
Opening up Murder Wears Mittens I became concerned when the first thing I see is a long list of characters that would be included letting the reader know who was who. I always cringe when I see something of this nature thinking the story should introduce me to whoever is in the book and get to know them so if this is needed then perhaps I won't enjoy the book. However, in this case it seems that these characters have been around for quite a while for this author with eleven other books in the A Seaside Knitters Mystery series. I was under the impression when I picked this one up that it was a brand new series, the Seaside Knitters Society, but this wasn't the case.
My rating on Murder Wears Mittens is basically due to the fact that jumping this far into an ongoing series leaves me feeling that I've missed a connection to the characters. The story was an alright cozy read it just didn't grab me as I would have liked and I believe if maybe I'd been reading and getting to know these characters from the beginning I would have been more connected to them with so many involved in the book. I may even try to eventually go back and read about these ladies from the beginning as it seems like it would be a nice small town cozy if I felt I could get to know them better in earlier reads.
I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.wordpress....
September 7, 2017
Dollycas’s Thoughts
This is one of my very favorite series. Now it has been reborn as Seaside Knitters Society Series by Kensington Publishing. For fans of this series it picks up right where Murder at Lambswool Farm (Seaside Knitters Mystery) leaves off. For those just discovering this fabulous group of characters there is a cast list at the beginning of the book, don’t panic by the long list, the author gives plenty of detail throughout the story so you can get to know the characters easily.
If I could I would pack my bags today and move to Sea Harbor, Massachusetts. The residents are smart and fun and generous. They are always willing to give a helping hand, a little advice, a warm hug and a full belly. Their dinners on the deck will make you swoon. They will also be sure you have all the sweaters, scarves and mittens you need.
Case in point; Cass Halloran is at the laundromat when she finds some unusual items in her dryer. She is surprised when a young boy hurries in, pulls some things out of her dryer and quickly rides off on his bicycle. She tries to catch up but can’t. Then she finds a school uniform just like she used to wear that the boy had left behind. She just can’t get the child out of her mind, with a little help she finds out his name and where he lives. She along with her friends Izzy, Nell, and Birdie go to return the uniform only to find the boy and his sister alone, no sign of their mother. While trying to track down the woman they also find themselves investigating another death. A recluse, Dolores Cardozo, is found dead in her home and the children’s mother could be involved. So now in addition to knitting mittens for charity they are going to have to knit together all the clues to solve this murder.
The Seaside Knitters, Izzy, Nell, Cass and Birdie, along with their spouses, significant others, kids and friends are some of the best characters right now in cozy literature. Over the years the group has grown because as a whole and they are all so welcoming. Knitting may have brought them together in the beginning but it is their friendships that have stood the test of time. They are realistic, engaging, with hearts as big as all outdoors. Such a fine group of people. With each book I feel as I am returning to visit old lifelong friends.
These character’s lives would make a great women’s fiction story on their own but Ms. Goldenbaum knits and purls them right into a fantastic mystery. Dolores Cardozo mostly kept to herself. Few people knew her by name, they would see her walking on the beach but didn’t really know much about her. Now that she has gone and named Birdie executor of her will, plus the news that she may have been murdered by the mother of the children that Cass has become attached to sends this story in a very interesting direction. The plot is thought out and so well written. I was invested in the new characters just as much as those that have warmed my heart in 11 previous books. I needed to know how things would turn out. The ending was surprising and so satisfying.
This is a story of friendship first and foremost but the mystery is top-notch. I try to slow down and savor my visits to Sea Harbor but find that impossible because I need to solve the crime right along with the Seaside Knitters. I have enjoyed every story but hate to say good-bye after the final page. Same time, next year…..can’t wait.
This is one of my very favorite series. Now it has been reborn as Seaside Knitters Society Series by Kensington Publishing. For fans of this series it picks up right where Murder at Lambswool Farm (Seaside Knitters Mystery) leaves off. For those just discovering this fabulous group of characters there is a cast list at the beginning of the book, don’t panic by the long list, the author gives plenty of detail throughout the story so you can get to know the characters easily.
If I could I would pack my bags today and move to Sea Harbor, Massachusetts. The residents are smart and fun and generous. They are always willing to give a helping hand, a little advice, a warm hug and a full belly. Their dinners on the deck will make you swoon. They will also be sure you have all the sweaters, scarves and mittens you need.
Case in point; Cass Halloran is at the laundromat when she finds some unusual items in her dryer. She is surprised when a young boy hurries in, pulls some things out of her dryer and quickly rides off on his bicycle. She tries to catch up but can’t. Then she finds a school uniform just like she used to wear that the boy had left behind. She just can’t get the child out of her mind, with a little help she finds out his name and where he lives. She along with her friends Izzy, Nell, and Birdie go to return the uniform only to find the boy and his sister alone, no sign of their mother. While trying to track down the woman they also find themselves investigating another death. A recluse, Dolores Cardozo, is found dead in her home and the children’s mother could be involved. So now in addition to knitting mittens for charity they are going to have to knit together all the clues to solve this murder.
The Seaside Knitters, Izzy, Nell, Cass and Birdie, along with their spouses, significant others, kids and friends are some of the best characters right now in cozy literature. Over the years the group has grown because as a whole and they are all so welcoming. Knitting may have brought them together in the beginning but it is their friendships that have stood the test of time. They are realistic, engaging, with hearts as big as all outdoors. Such a fine group of people. With each book I feel as I am returning to visit old lifelong friends.
These character’s lives would make a great women’s fiction story on their own but Ms. Goldenbaum knits and purls them right into a fantastic mystery. Dolores Cardozo mostly kept to herself. Few people knew her by name, they would see her walking on the beach but didn’t really know much about her. Now that she has gone and named Birdie executor of her will, plus the news that she may have been murdered by the mother of the children that Cass has become attached to sends this story in a very interesting direction. The plot is thought out and so well written. I was invested in the new characters just as much as those that have warmed my heart in 11 previous books. I needed to know how things would turn out. The ending was surprising and so satisfying.
This is a story of friendship first and foremost but the mystery is top-notch. I try to slow down and savor my visits to Sea Harbor but find that impossible because I need to solve the crime right along with the Seaside Knitters. I have enjoyed every story but hate to say good-bye after the final page. Same time, next year…..can’t wait.
September 1, 2017
After Cass Halloran sees a young boy quickly leave a laundromat, leaving behind his clothes, something strikes a chord in Cass. She can’t get the boy’s quick departure out of her mind. She tells her friends from the Seaside Knitters Society all about it. The women agree to help find the boy and make sure everything is alright. When they find him, he is alone in his house with his younger sister and his dog. There’s no adult in sight and the women wonder if they’ve been abandoned.
Things take a strange turn when a local recluse is found murdered. The children’s mother is found, but is immediately considered the prime suspect in the murder. The knitters find themselves right in the middle of a murder mystery, when all they wanted to do was make sure the children were safe and cared for. Slowly they begin to uncover a mystery they never expected.
Sea Harbor, Massachusetts and the Seaside Knitters Society are perfect for a cozy mystery. This story has everything I love about the genre…a “feel good” atmosphere with a cast of lovable characters that quickly become friends of the reader. There are many red herrings tossed into the mix which kept me guessing right along with the knitters. The author has a wonderful writing style that matches this genre perfectly. She keeps you guessing through the entire book while creating characters that jump off each page.
Although this book is billed as #1 in the Seaside Knitters Society Mysteries, it is actually a continuation of the Seaside Knitters Mysteries that was discontinued by the previous publisher. The Seaside Knitters is already a well established series. I never read the first series, although it has been on my list to read forever. When I saw this as #1 in a sequel-type of series, I figured I would start there. It works as a self-contained mystery. There are no cliffhangers. The mystery is solved in this book, but I do admit that I wish I knew the cast better. That’s my favorite part of the cozy mystery genre - seeing the growth in characters and relationships develop. I want to know more. I’ll be going back and reading the original series from the start, but it’s not necessary to do that. This really is a standalone mystery.
This new-to-me author has a new fan who can’t wait to delve into more of this lovely series. .A huge thank you to Kensington in continuing to keep this series alive.
FTC Disclosure: I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book from NetGalley and the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own.
Things take a strange turn when a local recluse is found murdered. The children’s mother is found, but is immediately considered the prime suspect in the murder. The knitters find themselves right in the middle of a murder mystery, when all they wanted to do was make sure the children were safe and cared for. Slowly they begin to uncover a mystery they never expected.
Sea Harbor, Massachusetts and the Seaside Knitters Society are perfect for a cozy mystery. This story has everything I love about the genre…a “feel good” atmosphere with a cast of lovable characters that quickly become friends of the reader. There are many red herrings tossed into the mix which kept me guessing right along with the knitters. The author has a wonderful writing style that matches this genre perfectly. She keeps you guessing through the entire book while creating characters that jump off each page.
Although this book is billed as #1 in the Seaside Knitters Society Mysteries, it is actually a continuation of the Seaside Knitters Mysteries that was discontinued by the previous publisher. The Seaside Knitters is already a well established series. I never read the first series, although it has been on my list to read forever. When I saw this as #1 in a sequel-type of series, I figured I would start there. It works as a self-contained mystery. There are no cliffhangers. The mystery is solved in this book, but I do admit that I wish I knew the cast better. That’s my favorite part of the cozy mystery genre - seeing the growth in characters and relationships develop. I want to know more. I’ll be going back and reading the original series from the start, but it’s not necessary to do that. This really is a standalone mystery.
This new-to-me author has a new fan who can’t wait to delve into more of this lovely series. .A huge thank you to Kensington in continuing to keep this series alive.
FTC Disclosure: I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book from NetGalley and the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own.
September 12, 2017
Ok ok! We get it! Kayla is a young mom with 2 beautiful kids. That's how she was described every time anyone ever talked about this girl. Yawn.
I really wanted to like this book because I love mysteries and knitting. Sadly, I found the characters 1-dimensional, the dialog melodramatic, and the conclusion too obvious. When the killer was first introduced I said (out loud in my car to the audiobook), "That's the killer!" Several hours and at least a couple of implausible red herrings later, I found out I was right.
I love books like this. I'm really sorry I didn't love this one.
I really wanted to like this book because I love mysteries and knitting. Sadly, I found the characters 1-dimensional, the dialog melodramatic, and the conclusion too obvious. When the killer was first introduced I said (out loud in my car to the audiobook), "That's the killer!" Several hours and at least a couple of implausible red herrings later, I found out I was right.
I love books like this. I'm really sorry I didn't love this one.
September 2, 2022
When a reclusive woman is murdered in the small New England town of Sea Harbor, the Seaside Knitters start their investigation. Although this woman, Dolores, ate at the free local kitchen, she turned out to be quite wealthy and quietly generous. Who would want to harm her? The new-in-town young woman with a mysterious past? The angry neighbor? Developers who wanted her land? The shady reporter? It's not just about investigating--the knitters are also working on their HMS (hats, mittens, scarves) project to ensure that no one will be cold in Sea Harbor this winter.
April 20, 2019
We are visiting Sea Harbor, Massachusetts where
we meet the Seaside Knitters Society as they are
busy with the charity project, HMS (Hand knitted
Hats, Mittens and scarves). The whole community
takes part in the event which will provide warm
items for the community to withstand the cold
winter.
The Society is a special group. They are in-depth
characters with flaws, emotions, loyalties that
shape each character and their individual
perceptions of events surrounding them. The
camaraderie between the knitters makes the story.
A woman is murdered. A woman everyone saw but
knew nothing about her. She lived alone in a isolated
area. The group will discover a lot about her generous
life while throwing to solve the murder. Plenty of twists
and turns make the plot complex with many suspicious
characters as suspects.
Two children, their dog and mother are involved in the
mysterious happenings.
The beginning lists all the characters that you will meet
throughout the story.
A pattern for toe down socks included at the end.
A good start to a new series.
we meet the Seaside Knitters Society as they are
busy with the charity project, HMS (Hand knitted
Hats, Mittens and scarves). The whole community
takes part in the event which will provide warm
items for the community to withstand the cold
winter.
The Society is a special group. They are in-depth
characters with flaws, emotions, loyalties that
shape each character and their individual
perceptions of events surrounding them. The
camaraderie between the knitters makes the story.
A woman is murdered. A woman everyone saw but
knew nothing about her. She lived alone in a isolated
area. The group will discover a lot about her generous
life while throwing to solve the murder. Plenty of twists
and turns make the plot complex with many suspicious
characters as suspects.
Two children, their dog and mother are involved in the
mysterious happenings.
The beginning lists all the characters that you will meet
throughout the story.
A pattern for toe down socks included at the end.
A good start to a new series.
December 19, 2020
This really turned out to be a really good cozy mystery. I really liked it!
September 9, 2017
A new author for me and long running series. One I will read again. As a standalone, I was able to follow the story with the help of the list of characters. There were a number of persons involved. There 4 MC characters that form the center of a group of knitters whose curiosity about matters solved difficult situations.
In this book, the Seaside Knitters are heading a drive to knit hats, socks, and scarves for everyone in the community.
Delores Cardozo, an elderly woman who lived on the edge of town is found dead. She selected Birdie as her executor of her will. Delores was a wealthy woman and she left gifts to many, leaving her estate to a young mother who was found wondering along with no memory of what happened. The books take several turns at this point keeping the reader's attention. The ending will surprise you. I highly recommend this book.
A pattern for a knitted sock is included.
Disclosure: I received a free copy from Kensington Books through NetGalley for an honest review. I would like to thank them for this opportunity to read and review the book. The opinions expressed are my own.
In this book, the Seaside Knitters are heading a drive to knit hats, socks, and scarves for everyone in the community.
Delores Cardozo, an elderly woman who lived on the edge of town is found dead. She selected Birdie as her executor of her will. Delores was a wealthy woman and she left gifts to many, leaving her estate to a young mother who was found wondering along with no memory of what happened. The books take several turns at this point keeping the reader's attention. The ending will surprise you. I highly recommend this book.
A pattern for a knitted sock is included.
Disclosure: I received a free copy from Kensington Books through NetGalley for an honest review. I would like to thank them for this opportunity to read and review the book. The opinions expressed are my own.
September 8, 2017
First things first. This is book number one in the Seaside Knitters Society Mysteries, but it is the same setting as in the Seaside Knitters Mysteries, and in a way, book twelve. Starting with this book, there is a new publisher, so a new name.
Readers of the first eleven books will find their favorite characters between the covers of MURDER WEARS MITTENS. New readers picking this up as number one in a series will be reading well established characters, but will be able to follow along. Author Sally Goldenbaum always includes a list of characters at the beginning to help her readers keep track.
With the same skill as always, author Goldenbaum weaves an intricate mystery that will have readers captivated with the people and scenery, and enthralled with the mystery, and the story surrounding it.
An emotional tale, I felt both sadness and joy while reading, MURDER WEARS MITTENS. However, when I read the conclusion I was smiling with contentment.
Attention knitters: You’ll find a great instructions for Simple Skyp Socks, and a link to the pattern so you can print it out!
Readers of the first eleven books will find their favorite characters between the covers of MURDER WEARS MITTENS. New readers picking this up as number one in a series will be reading well established characters, but will be able to follow along. Author Sally Goldenbaum always includes a list of characters at the beginning to help her readers keep track.
With the same skill as always, author Goldenbaum weaves an intricate mystery that will have readers captivated with the people and scenery, and enthralled with the mystery, and the story surrounding it.
An emotional tale, I felt both sadness and joy while reading, MURDER WEARS MITTENS. However, when I read the conclusion I was smiling with contentment.
Attention knitters: You’ll find a great instructions for Simple Skyp Socks, and a link to the pattern so you can print it out!
August 31, 2017
Reviewed at The Power of Words: http://bit.ly/2x9AYXp
Heartwarming … poignant … entertaining … a story to savor. Atmospheric and evocative, this is a story of family, friendship and community, caring people who work together to solve a murder. Murder Wears Mittens is all that I could ask for in a cozy mystery, and more.
Although Murder Wears Mittens is the first mystery in the Seaside Knitters Society series, it actually continues a long-running series put out by another publisher. There’s wonderful character development throughout these stories, but background is provided so that each book can stand alone.
I discovered Sally Goldenbaum’s writing several years ago in a kind of unique way. Fueled by an addiction to stories set in New England, I was thrilled to discover a website where you can search for mystery books by several different categories, geographical location being one of them (stopyourekillingme.com). That’s how I found the Seaside Knitters series, tried the first one, and was hooked. Sea Harbor is fictional, but patterned after Gloucester, MA. I’m delighted that Ms. Goldenbaum has a new publisher in Kensington and is continuing the series.
When it comes to cozy mysteries, Murder Wears Mittens is a cut above. While it perfectly fits the cozy genre, there’s also elements of women’s fiction. At its heart is the friendship between four women of various ages – Cass, Izzy, Nell and Birdie – united by a love for knitting and a desire to help the community. Their current goal is the HMS project, “a community effort that would result in enough hats, mittens, scarves and socks to warm anyone in need for the long winter ahead.”
Izzy’s brother, Charlie, is one of my favorite characters – a man filled with gratitude for those who had helped him during a time when personal mistakes almost ruined his life. “He’d fixed up the well-traveled Bimmer and traveled from one side of the country to the other. Putting a period to some sentences, a thank-you to others.” Now he’s returned home and I look forward to more from this character.
I’m more comfortable when the murder victim is someone I can dislike, but that’s not the case here – and it makes for rich storytelling. Dolores Cardozo is a woman the Seaside Knitters were coming to know better in death than life – and I would have loved this lady. The mystery plot is well crafted, with hints that will be obvious once the murder’s identity is revealed.
Murder Wears Mittens doesn’t move at a fast pace; rather, it’s a sweet, character-driven story to be read leisurely and savored. I adore this whole series and hope we get to spend a lot more time with the Seaside Knitters. “Best of the best” for me. Highly recommended.
I was provided a free copy of this book through Great Escapes Tours. The opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.
Heartwarming … poignant … entertaining … a story to savor. Atmospheric and evocative, this is a story of family, friendship and community, caring people who work together to solve a murder. Murder Wears Mittens is all that I could ask for in a cozy mystery, and more.
Although Murder Wears Mittens is the first mystery in the Seaside Knitters Society series, it actually continues a long-running series put out by another publisher. There’s wonderful character development throughout these stories, but background is provided so that each book can stand alone.
I discovered Sally Goldenbaum’s writing several years ago in a kind of unique way. Fueled by an addiction to stories set in New England, I was thrilled to discover a website where you can search for mystery books by several different categories, geographical location being one of them (stopyourekillingme.com). That’s how I found the Seaside Knitters series, tried the first one, and was hooked. Sea Harbor is fictional, but patterned after Gloucester, MA. I’m delighted that Ms. Goldenbaum has a new publisher in Kensington and is continuing the series.
When it comes to cozy mysteries, Murder Wears Mittens is a cut above. While it perfectly fits the cozy genre, there’s also elements of women’s fiction. At its heart is the friendship between four women of various ages – Cass, Izzy, Nell and Birdie – united by a love for knitting and a desire to help the community. Their current goal is the HMS project, “a community effort that would result in enough hats, mittens, scarves and socks to warm anyone in need for the long winter ahead.”
Izzy’s brother, Charlie, is one of my favorite characters – a man filled with gratitude for those who had helped him during a time when personal mistakes almost ruined his life. “He’d fixed up the well-traveled Bimmer and traveled from one side of the country to the other. Putting a period to some sentences, a thank-you to others.” Now he’s returned home and I look forward to more from this character.
I’m more comfortable when the murder victim is someone I can dislike, but that’s not the case here – and it makes for rich storytelling. Dolores Cardozo is a woman the Seaside Knitters were coming to know better in death than life – and I would have loved this lady. The mystery plot is well crafted, with hints that will be obvious once the murder’s identity is revealed.
Murder Wears Mittens doesn’t move at a fast pace; rather, it’s a sweet, character-driven story to be read leisurely and savored. I adore this whole series and hope we get to spend a lot more time with the Seaside Knitters. “Best of the best” for me. Highly recommended.
I was provided a free copy of this book through Great Escapes Tours. The opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.
August 29, 2017
I hadn't read any of the series this continues, but the characters are so well-developed, it took me barely any time to feel comfortable with them and like I was among friends.
I enjoyed how the knitters managed to get inside the head of the deceased, a woman they barely knew, just by talking together, sharing random experiences with her and asking questions in town. I liked how none of them was ever in any danger when investigating since that was a little break from the usual cozy formula.
There was a side story along with the murder that was very interesting and even more so, the deeper the mystery developed. A different formula is refreshing sometimes as no one told the friends to back off investigating or that they were in the way.
Hint: When you read, pay lots of attention to Chapter 1. It will all fall into place later--I wish I had been able to remember more about that chapter later on in the book. I did re-read the first chapter after I finished the book.
This was a very enjoyable murder mystery consisting of food, family and friendship. I read that the author has changed publishers which is why the new series title but it is most likely a continuation of her 11-book knitting series. Again, this was great as a stand-alone and for someone like me who had never read any of her books. But I definitely intend to. Sally Goldenbaum is a very gifted writer!
I enjoyed how the knitters managed to get inside the head of the deceased, a woman they barely knew, just by talking together, sharing random experiences with her and asking questions in town. I liked how none of them was ever in any danger when investigating since that was a little break from the usual cozy formula.
There was a side story along with the murder that was very interesting and even more so, the deeper the mystery developed. A different formula is refreshing sometimes as no one told the friends to back off investigating or that they were in the way.
Hint: When you read, pay lots of attention to Chapter 1. It will all fall into place later--I wish I had been able to remember more about that chapter later on in the book. I did re-read the first chapter after I finished the book.
This was a very enjoyable murder mystery consisting of food, family and friendship. I read that the author has changed publishers which is why the new series title but it is most likely a continuation of her 11-book knitting series. Again, this was great as a stand-alone and for someone like me who had never read any of her books. But I definitely intend to. Sally Goldenbaum is a very gifted writer!
January 21, 2018
These are getting worse. Each time, I vow I won't read another. And then I do.
How has Sea Harbour gone from small, charming village that bustles in summer, where everyone knows everyone else, to a "small city"?
How is that in the beginning, no one knows Dolores, but as the story wears on, she as "a good friend" and known by people for her good works, etc.?
The use of Hannah Swenson as an .... ahem ... character ... was irritating. Anyone who has read Joanne Fluke will at least pause at this. Hard to shake the image of the "30somthing-going on 90 cookie baker, holier-than-thou, slack-wearing, man-teasing, Miss Priss" and come up with someone else ... good thing she doesn't figure super prominently ... although perhaps she should, given her role.
12 seems like a nice round number to stop with. Tedious, trite, soporific, and lacking in most of the cozy charm of earlier installments.
How has Sea Harbour gone from small, charming village that bustles in summer, where everyone knows everyone else, to a "small city"?
How is that in the beginning, no one knows Dolores, but as the story wears on, she as "a good friend" and known by people for her good works, etc.?
The use of Hannah Swenson as an .... ahem ... character ... was irritating. Anyone who has read Joanne Fluke will at least pause at this. Hard to shake the image of the "30somthing-going on 90 cookie baker, holier-than-thou, slack-wearing, man-teasing, Miss Priss" and come up with someone else ... good thing she doesn't figure super prominently ... although perhaps she should, given her role.
12 seems like a nice round number to stop with. Tedious, trite, soporific, and lacking in most of the cozy charm of earlier installments.
September 6, 2017
Murder Wears Mittens by Sally Goldenbaum is the 12th book in the Seaside Knitters Society series, and my first book by this author. I really enjoyed this book, can't believe I have not read this series before. I stayed up half the night to finish it in one setting. I found this book to be a quick read, with a well developed plot and characters. I am looking forward to reading the other books in this series. You don't have to be a knitter to really enjoy this book. If you love cozy mysteries, I recommend this book.
This review is based on the ARC provided by the author and/or the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for my honest opinion.
This review is based on the ARC provided by the author and/or the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for my honest opinion.
October 29, 2018
Another great addition to the Seaside Knitters Mystery Series! This one may be my favorite one yet as it has multi-layered plot woven throughout and the character development just keeps getting better and better. New characters introduced while the beloved continuous characters continue to shine. The books have a way of drawing you and making you care about the town and this one is no different. I absolutely can't wait to read the next one in the series! If you have been following the series, you are in for a some great surprises in the character's lives in this book!
December 4, 2019
This series never disappoints!!
April 20, 2021
Money and love can be the root of murder or it can one’s strengths. Cass Halloran discovers some forgotten clothes at the laundromat. She discovers who they belong to and thus begins the Seaside Knitters next mystery/murder to solve. A small town that one would like to live in is the setting and the victim is Dolores Cardozo who was trying to do good is the victim.
December 16, 2017
This is another book from Sally Goldenbaum. I am pretty sure I have read all of her books in this series, they were not all called Seaside Knitters Society though. When Sally had to change publishers, she changed the name from the Seaside Knitters. All the characters are the same.
This one starts out with Cass doing laundry and meeting Chris Stewart taking clothes out of her dryer! But he leaves some in the dryer and Cass feels that it is her responsibility to find the young boy and his dog and give back the clothes he left. This begins the mystery.
The knitters, Izzy, Nell, and Birdie and of course Cass get together and help Cass find the little boy. He had left his little sister's school uniform in the dryer so they went to the school first and were able to find out from Cass's aunt who is the principle of the school.
But they found the children alone! Which is where the mystery takes a turn! Their mother is missing. But Cass's aunt comes in the picture again. She helps with the children when their Mom is not around. It turns out that Aunt Fiona has been looking for Kayla, (the mother) who is in the hospital.
She does not remember who she is!
In the meantime a dead body is found and Kayla's bike is near the house of the deceased! So she becomes the "person of interest" for the death. Enter the Seaside Knitters Society to help solve the mystery.
Sally left me wondering until almost the last chapter of the book before she let us know who dun it!
The book just like all the others by Sally is well worth the time to read! I wonder how many will guess who the murdered is!
This one starts out with Cass doing laundry and meeting Chris Stewart taking clothes out of her dryer! But he leaves some in the dryer and Cass feels that it is her responsibility to find the young boy and his dog and give back the clothes he left. This begins the mystery.
The knitters, Izzy, Nell, and Birdie and of course Cass get together and help Cass find the little boy. He had left his little sister's school uniform in the dryer so they went to the school first and were able to find out from Cass's aunt who is the principle of the school.
But they found the children alone! Which is where the mystery takes a turn! Their mother is missing. But Cass's aunt comes in the picture again. She helps with the children when their Mom is not around. It turns out that Aunt Fiona has been looking for Kayla, (the mother) who is in the hospital.
She does not remember who she is!
In the meantime a dead body is found and Kayla's bike is near the house of the deceased! So she becomes the "person of interest" for the death. Enter the Seaside Knitters Society to help solve the mystery.
Sally left me wondering until almost the last chapter of the book before she let us know who dun it!
The book just like all the others by Sally is well worth the time to read! I wonder how many will guess who the murdered is!
August 29, 2017
I did not enjoy this book as much as the first one in the series. It seemed overly complicated. The list of characters is mind-boggling and mine mind just simply did not want to dedicate that much brainpower to remembering each and every one. It took quite a long time for the conversation to be centered at the knitting shop, which is something I had enjoyed in the first book. Quite a bit of the conversation took place around the dinner table of a knitters home. Once we returned to the knitting store, Then for me, the action began to knit together. And then I really enjoyed reading it. I mean, it is a knitting oriented mystery series, right?
The comp,icated plot was designed with other mysteries to be solved as well as subplots. In the end, it came together, but not always neatly.. For example, I found it odd that after so much verbiage about everything else, the actual murder scene itself was barely described. I had to write in my own mind what actually happened since the murderer's story was very incomplete. I do not feel that it was my job to do that.
I enjoyed the premise, the scenery in the bookstore and out on the beach but I felt it needed to have more focus, it seemed to be all over the place. Not to the point of unraveling, but close.
The comp,icated plot was designed with other mysteries to be solved as well as subplots. In the end, it came together, but not always neatly.. For example, I found it odd that after so much verbiage about everything else, the actual murder scene itself was barely described. I had to write in my own mind what actually happened since the murderer's story was very incomplete. I do not feel that it was my job to do that.
I enjoyed the premise, the scenery in the bookstore and out on the beach but I felt it needed to have more focus, it seemed to be all over the place. Not to the point of unraveling, but close.
January 30, 2022
Meet the Seaside Knitters of Sea Harbor, Massachusetts. A diverse group of family and friends who meet on a regular basis at Izzy Perry's Seaside Knitting Studio to knit, visit and solve murders. When one of the group members becomes involved with two unattended children, the group gathers to help the mother out. Then a wealthy recluse is found murdered in her home on the edge of town. The group discovers that the mother and her two children are connected to the murdered woman and that the mother is now a suspect in the murder.
This is the 12th book in this wonderful series and each one continues to get better. The characters are so lifelike that you feel like you are right there alongside them, knitting away. Their friendship and lives are intertwined with fascinating murder plots that will keep you guessing right to the final reveal. I have read and loved every book in this engrossing series and highly recommend it to any fan of knitting and cozy mysteries.
This is the 12th book in this wonderful series and each one continues to get better. The characters are so lifelike that you feel like you are right there alongside them, knitting away. Their friendship and lives are intertwined with fascinating murder plots that will keep you guessing right to the final reveal. I have read and loved every book in this engrossing series and highly recommend it to any fan of knitting and cozy mysteries.
September 24, 2017
I don't mind reading about rich people, let alone the prosperous middle class. Yet the members of the Seaside Knitters Society and their friends, significant others, and relatives always get under my skin somehow. On some level that I can't quite verbalize, it may be related to the overuse of the term "magic." The view is magic; Friday dinners on the Endicotts' deck is magic; even the blueberry muffins that Birdie's cook makes are magic. Not so magic is the murder of a solitary retiree, who turns out to be quite wealthy and a public benefactor, nor the attack on a young waitress whose children have endeared themselves to everyone.
September 20, 2017
This is a nice village cozy with a twist--a group detective. The four members of the Seaside Knitters work together, and share top billing, as they solve this mystery that disturbs the peace of their small New England village. In fact, at first I had some trouble keeping everyone straight--it seemed like every character who was introduced was equally important, and my summer-vacation brain had trouble sorting them out. Fortunately, the author helps with this by providing a comprehensive "Cast of Characters" at the beginning, and by halfway through they had emerged in my mind as distinct people.
The mystery is pretty well worked out, with a reasonably convincing motive and a pretty clear track to the solution (I do object to books where the solution comes in a sudden leap that the reader can't follow; this one had a clear trail to follow all the way). In point of fact, I worked it out well ahead of the sleuths, as well as sorting out the general outline of the only main red herring, but that didn't stop me from being interested in how the author would get there.
I do have some quibbles with this book. For one thing, although it says it's the first in the series, it isn't. I had to do some sleuthing of my own to realize that it's the continuation of a series with a new publisher. That would explain why there was so evidently a lot of history with these people (including another murder in their past) that I didn't know about. I think it would be better to read the ones that come before first.
I was more troubled by what I see as poor editing, in the form of too many slightly mis-used words, or sound-alikes, like "jived" for "jibed" or "low and behold" for "lo and behold." This happened enough to distract me a bit, though I'd be the first to admit I'm a little OCD about that type of thing.
As for the knitting pattern, this reader is much better with a bike wrench than any form of handiwork, and has no ability whatsoever to read a knitting pattern, let alone evaluate it. I'm guessing it will be lovely, and it does make a nice change from recipes.
My Recommendation:
This is for those who like village cozies with a good sense of place and a whiff of sea air about them.
The mystery is pretty well worked out, with a reasonably convincing motive and a pretty clear track to the solution (I do object to books where the solution comes in a sudden leap that the reader can't follow; this one had a clear trail to follow all the way). In point of fact, I worked it out well ahead of the sleuths, as well as sorting out the general outline of the only main red herring, but that didn't stop me from being interested in how the author would get there.
I do have some quibbles with this book. For one thing, although it says it's the first in the series, it isn't. I had to do some sleuthing of my own to realize that it's the continuation of a series with a new publisher. That would explain why there was so evidently a lot of history with these people (including another murder in their past) that I didn't know about. I think it would be better to read the ones that come before first.
I was more troubled by what I see as poor editing, in the form of too many slightly mis-used words, or sound-alikes, like "jived" for "jibed" or "low and behold" for "lo and behold." This happened enough to distract me a bit, though I'd be the first to admit I'm a little OCD about that type of thing.
As for the knitting pattern, this reader is much better with a bike wrench than any form of handiwork, and has no ability whatsoever to read a knitting pattern, let alone evaluate it. I'm guessing it will be lovely, and it does make a nice change from recipes.
My Recommendation:
This is for those who like village cozies with a good sense of place and a whiff of sea air about them.
August 3, 2017
Intriguing
Murder Wears Mittens is the first book I’ve read written by Sally Goldenbaum. For some reason, I couldn’t get interested in this book and set it aside. I decided to give it another go and was glad I did. When I picked it back up, I found that I was enjoying it and anxious to find out who the culprit was. The storyline is well plotted and the characters well rounded. The Seaside Knitters are a group of thoughtful, kind, and compassionate women who are trying to solve a murder and figure out the mystery surrounding a mother and her young children. The final reveal was quite a surprise.
Cass Halloran stops to pick up her lobster nets from the dryer at the local laundromat and finds a pink sweater and school uniform mixed in with the nets. A young boy and his dog show up but he runs away when Cass approaches them. Cass and her knitting friends discover the boy’s identity, and when they return the clothes the next day, they find him and his younger sister alone and the boy will only say his mother is running errands. The group is concerned about the safety of the children, but Sister Fiona assures them she has everything under control. When Dolores Cardozo’s body is found, her death is ruled a homicide. The young, single mother of the two children is found near the murder site, with a head injury and temporary amnesia. Dolores was a longtime resident in the town, but no one seems to know much about her but Cass and her friends learn that she was very wealthy and left a large inheritance to the children’s mother.
I received an Advance Reader Copy of this book from NetGalley and voluntarily reviewed it.
Murder Wears Mittens is the first book I’ve read written by Sally Goldenbaum. For some reason, I couldn’t get interested in this book and set it aside. I decided to give it another go and was glad I did. When I picked it back up, I found that I was enjoying it and anxious to find out who the culprit was. The storyline is well plotted and the characters well rounded. The Seaside Knitters are a group of thoughtful, kind, and compassionate women who are trying to solve a murder and figure out the mystery surrounding a mother and her young children. The final reveal was quite a surprise.
Cass Halloran stops to pick up her lobster nets from the dryer at the local laundromat and finds a pink sweater and school uniform mixed in with the nets. A young boy and his dog show up but he runs away when Cass approaches them. Cass and her knitting friends discover the boy’s identity, and when they return the clothes the next day, they find him and his younger sister alone and the boy will only say his mother is running errands. The group is concerned about the safety of the children, but Sister Fiona assures them she has everything under control. When Dolores Cardozo’s body is found, her death is ruled a homicide. The young, single mother of the two children is found near the murder site, with a head injury and temporary amnesia. Dolores was a longtime resident in the town, but no one seems to know much about her but Cass and her friends learn that she was very wealthy and left a large inheritance to the children’s mother.
I received an Advance Reader Copy of this book from NetGalley and voluntarily reviewed it.
October 23, 2018
I read some of the other books from this series years ago and just came back with this book and it took me a while to get back to familiar with the series to be able to follow the story. Part of the problem was Hannah Swenson (found in the Murder She Baked series). Also, the story is based around knitters (see Maggie Sefton and Betty Hechtman that I have been reading recently). I think I will need to read the older books and then reread this book.
This book starts with a young boy using someone else's washer and dryer to wash and dry his sister's uniform so that she can wear it to school. The woman whose load he hijacked finds the uniform and knows exactly where she goes to school and goes to the priest to find out who they are so she can return the uniform. This puts things in motion, the missing mother, found injured and with amnesia, the woman she went to visit, dead. As the women work to find out who would murder the older woman, they learn some things about the woman and the little family.
Once, I got past the confusion it was a good story and I wanted to find out who did it and why.
This book starts with a young boy using someone else's washer and dryer to wash and dry his sister's uniform so that she can wear it to school. The woman whose load he hijacked finds the uniform and knows exactly where she goes to school and goes to the priest to find out who they are so she can return the uniform. This puts things in motion, the missing mother, found injured and with amnesia, the woman she went to visit, dead. As the women work to find out who would murder the older woman, they learn some things about the woman and the little family.
Once, I got past the confusion it was a good story and I wanted to find out who did it and why.
July 22, 2017
I've been a long time fan of this series and this particular book was excellent.
I enjoy the group of friends, each one adding their own levels of humor to the story.
Izzy is one of my favorite characters, but in this book, I really enjoyed the part Cass played.
A death shakes up their small seaside town and when the ladies begin asking questions, they seem to realize that a murderer is living among them.
No one truly knew the victim, she led a quiet and peaceful life. Once Izzy and friends started to put the pieces of the puzzle together, they found out just what type of person the victim was.
This story captured me from the beginning and it was easy to lose myself in this story.
I voluntarily read an ARC of this book provided by the publisher and NetGalley.
I enjoy the group of friends, each one adding their own levels of humor to the story.
Izzy is one of my favorite characters, but in this book, I really enjoyed the part Cass played.
A death shakes up their small seaside town and when the ladies begin asking questions, they seem to realize that a murderer is living among them.
No one truly knew the victim, she led a quiet and peaceful life. Once Izzy and friends started to put the pieces of the puzzle together, they found out just what type of person the victim was.
This story captured me from the beginning and it was easy to lose myself in this story.
I voluntarily read an ARC of this book provided by the publisher and NetGalley.
October 17, 2025
I was in the mood for one of these books, and ended up very confused. So let me tell you so you'll know. All of the books in this series previously were called "Seaside Knitters" and numbered 1, 2, 3, etc. This book is called "Seaside Knitters Society" and is called #1. Some research showed that it is the next book in the Seaside Knitters series, BUT, the series title changed and the numbering started over because the books have a new publisher. So now you know. And this is the kind of thing that makes catalog librarians stabby, FYI.
Anyway, in this installment, a local woman is found murdered in her home. Many people in town knew her to see, but didn't know her well. A woman who is new in town with her two young children who happened yo be friendly with the deceased womsn becomes a suspect, particularly seen she inherits a lot of money when the will is read.
With their usual combo of curiosity, conversation, and poking around, the Seaside Knitters investigate and eventually discover what happened. Though I often have a suspicion about who the culprit is in these books, this one was out of left field for me. But as usual, I enjoyed the company of the people in this book.
Anyway, in this installment, a local woman is found murdered in her home. Many people in town knew her to see, but didn't know her well. A woman who is new in town with her two young children who happened yo be friendly with the deceased womsn becomes a suspect, particularly seen she inherits a lot of money when the will is read.
With their usual combo of curiosity, conversation, and poking around, the Seaside Knitters investigate and eventually discover what happened. Though I often have a suspicion about who the culprit is in these books, this one was out of left field for me. But as usual, I enjoyed the company of the people in this book.
August 4, 2017
This is book 1 in a spinoff series (Seaside Knitters Society) from Sally Goldenbaum's Seaside Knitters series that has at least 10 books. Izzy and the knitters are still part of this book but Cass takes the lead from the Lobster shop when she sees a young boy taking clothes from her dryer at the laundromat. When she and her friends discover their mother's disappearance is connected to the murder of a wealthy hermit who lives on the edge of town they jump into the mystery to help solve the crime. I love the New England lore and setting and especially the free knitting pattern available with each book in both series. A good cozy mystery and lots of great characters.
August 24, 2017
What a wonderful addition to the “Seaside Knitters Society”! I always look forward to a new episode and when it arrives I seem to read it slower than any other series. I want to savor the story, the characters; and characters they are, while feeling as if I’m back with old friends. Sally Goldenbaum continues to draw you into this wonderful mystery solving group and her descriptions and writing style is so “familiar”.
This installment brings some characters home, allows some to create new homes and some to save their homes. In the center of all of this is a murder and the need to solve it. A wonderful book!
This installment brings some characters home, allows some to create new homes and some to save their homes. In the center of all of this is a murder and the need to solve it. A wonderful book!
August 30, 2017
This is a great book with a wonderful story and well developed characters. The story flowed very well and was very enjoyable. This book will keep you reading long into the night and you will not want to put this book down until you finish. This was such a great read and full of surprises. I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader’s copy of this book. The free book held no determination on my personal review.
April 8, 2024
Another good book with the sea side knitters. I enjoy the characters in these books and look forward to meeting new ones and there are a couple in this book who I hope become regulars. The mystery was well done and I actually solved it ahead of time. One thing I can always count on with this series is that it is well written and this was no exception.
July 14, 2017
I received a digital copy of Murder Wears Mittens from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
As I love this cozy mystery series by Sally Goldenbaum, I was thrilled to see her new book on NetGalley & even more so when chosen to read it (thank you NetGalley & Kensington Publishers!).
The story captures the reader from page one, welcoming you to Seaside Harbor & it's citizens. I found there was less knitting in this story than previous (my opinion), but it did not take away from the story. I did not know who the murderer was until it was revealed, & did not want the story to end! A quick, easy, enjoyable read, with a happy, surprise ending. Enjoy~
As I love this cozy mystery series by Sally Goldenbaum, I was thrilled to see her new book on NetGalley & even more so when chosen to read it (thank you NetGalley & Kensington Publishers!).
The story captures the reader from page one, welcoming you to Seaside Harbor & it's citizens. I found there was less knitting in this story than previous (my opinion), but it did not take away from the story. I did not know who the murderer was until it was revealed, & did not want the story to end! A quick, easy, enjoyable read, with a happy, surprise ending. Enjoy~
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