What do you think?
Rate this book
Black Sheep & Company Mystery #10
Purls and Poison
“Charming . . . Relatable characters and amusing commentary show why Canadeo is so popular with cozy readers.” —Publishers Weekly When a fellow Black Sheep Knitter is suspected of poisoning her coworker, the group puts down their needles and takes up their friend’s defense . . . Suzanne Cavanaugh has just about had it with her office rival at Prestige Properties. It’s bad enough that Liza Devereaux is constantly needling her at work, but when she shows up at one of Suzanne’s open houses to poach potential buyers, it’s the last straw. No one in the office fails to hear the two snarling at each other. When Liza is later found dead in her office cubicle—poisoned by a diet shake—Suzanne becomes the prime suspect. The Black Sheep Knitters have no doubt their friend has been framed—but they need to prove it. Stirred to action, they get together to catch a sneaky killer who’s trying to pull the wool over everyone’s eyes . . . “Members of the Black Sheep knitting group must use their sleuthing talents to rescue one of their own . . . The wrenching ordeal of a Black Sheep as a murder suspect makes this entry the strongest in Canadeo’s series.” —Kirkus Reviews
305 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 30, 2018
116 people are currently reading
344 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 83 reviews
September 20, 2018
My thanks to NetGalley and Kensington Books for providing an advanced digital copy of Purls and Poison by Anne Canadeo in exchange for an honest review. This is the second in a series of books featuring a group of knitting friends who have named themselves the Black Sheep Knitters.
The mystery in this book is a classic cozy featuring the murder of Liza, a work rival of Suzanne who is one of the group of knitters. She is almost immediately suspected of the murder and it seems the police are not looking at any other suspects, so it’s left up to her and her friends to find out who the real killer is before she is arrested. The reason for her decision to investigate is believable, but it was a bit difficult to believe the police settled on her as a murderer as rapidly as they did.
Clues and red herrings are well placed throughout the book, giving the reader ample time to try and solve the murder before the denouement. I solved “who done it” about half way through the book, and enjoyed reading to the end to confirm I was correct. That was the primary spur that kept me reading the book to the end as I had difficulty identifying with Suzanne and the other characters.
I found Suzanne difficult to like, which made me less interested in discovering if she was able to extricate herself from the situation. The other characters in the knitters group seemed to be less well developed, leaving me wondering if I would have known them better had I read the first book in the series. In the end, however, I was not sufficiently interested enough to make me go back and pick up the first book in the series.
The pace of the book seemed a bit uneven at times, with abrupt shifts from one chapter to the other. On a couple of occasions I found myself having to go back to the previous chapter to make sure I hadn’t overlooked something. Reading forward, it became more apparent how the chapters tied together, it just caused me some difficulty in maintaining a smooth read throughout the book.
For people who are fans of cozy mysteries, this one has some elements that will create strong appeal. Particularly the opportunity to solve the mystery along with the protagonist and her friends is a plus for me. If you are planning to read the book, I might suggest you pick up the first in the series first in order to obtain a better picture of who the characters who make up the knitting group are and how they relate to each other.
The mystery in this book is a classic cozy featuring the murder of Liza, a work rival of Suzanne who is one of the group of knitters. She is almost immediately suspected of the murder and it seems the police are not looking at any other suspects, so it’s left up to her and her friends to find out who the real killer is before she is arrested. The reason for her decision to investigate is believable, but it was a bit difficult to believe the police settled on her as a murderer as rapidly as they did.
Clues and red herrings are well placed throughout the book, giving the reader ample time to try and solve the murder before the denouement. I solved “who done it” about half way through the book, and enjoyed reading to the end to confirm I was correct. That was the primary spur that kept me reading the book to the end as I had difficulty identifying with Suzanne and the other characters.
I found Suzanne difficult to like, which made me less interested in discovering if she was able to extricate herself from the situation. The other characters in the knitters group seemed to be less well developed, leaving me wondering if I would have known them better had I read the first book in the series. In the end, however, I was not sufficiently interested enough to make me go back and pick up the first book in the series.
The pace of the book seemed a bit uneven at times, with abrupt shifts from one chapter to the other. On a couple of occasions I found myself having to go back to the previous chapter to make sure I hadn’t overlooked something. Reading forward, it became more apparent how the chapters tied together, it just caused me some difficulty in maintaining a smooth read throughout the book.
For people who are fans of cozy mysteries, this one has some elements that will create strong appeal. Particularly the opportunity to solve the mystery along with the protagonist and her friends is a plus for me. If you are planning to read the book, I might suggest you pick up the first in the series first in order to obtain a better picture of who the characters who make up the knitting group are and how they relate to each other.
December 2, 2018
In PURLS AND POISON, author Anne Canadeo takes readers back to Plum Harbor and quickly enmeshes us in a murder mystery where one of the Black Sheep Knitters is a suspect. But the list of likely killers keeps growing. And with more twists than a ball of yarn, this is was difficult whodunit to untangle.
I really enjoyed this fast-paced story. Early into the book I was more than sure I knew who the killer was. Yet when I read the reveal, I couldn’t believe how far of the mark I was. I never saw it coming. But when I peeked back through the book, I saw that the clues were there all along. Well done, Ms. Canadeo!
You don’t have to be a knitter to enjoy PURLS AND POISON or this series. But if you are, you’ll find a link for a knitting pattern at the end of the book. But if you’re like me and can’t knit a stitch, there’s also a recipe included to enjoy!
I really enjoyed this fast-paced story. Early into the book I was more than sure I knew who the killer was. Yet when I read the reveal, I couldn’t believe how far of the mark I was. I never saw it coming. But when I peeked back through the book, I saw that the clues were there all along. Well done, Ms. Canadeo!
You don’t have to be a knitter to enjoy PURLS AND POISON or this series. But if you are, you’ll find a link for a knitting pattern at the end of the book. But if you’re like me and can’t knit a stitch, there’s also a recipe included to enjoy!
October 1, 2018
This author has long been on my TBR list. I was pleased to receive an ARC. It is the tenth book in the Black Sheep Knitting mysteries. I have not read this series before but it works okay as a standalone.
Suzanne Cavanaugh works for Prestige Properties. Liza Devereaux is a rival agent and always causing Suzanne problems. She decides to apologize for her behavior that day. Suzanne finds Lisa dead and the police feel she is the killer. The knitting girls decided to prove that Suzanne is not guilty. Will they succeed? I highly recommend this book.
Disclosure: Many thanks to Kensington Books for a review copy.The opinions expressed are my own.
Suzanne Cavanaugh works for Prestige Properties. Liza Devereaux is a rival agent and always causing Suzanne problems. She decides to apologize for her behavior that day. Suzanne finds Lisa dead and the police feel she is the killer. The knitting girls decided to prove that Suzanne is not guilty. Will they succeed? I highly recommend this book.
Disclosure: Many thanks to Kensington Books for a review copy.The opinions expressed are my own.
September 10, 2018
Purls and Poison by Anne Canadeo was another complex little mystery to be solved by the Black Sheep knitters.
Although I am fairly new to this series, I had previously read Knit to Kill so I was a little familiar with the women, Maggie, Phoebe, Dana, Suzanne and Lucy. This time they must rally around Suzanne as her temper has gotten her into a world of trouble. The plot is quickly paced with plenty of suspects, twists and turns and red herrings that made Suzanne look very guilty. I couldn't stop turning the pages to find out what the ladies were going to do next. This is a novella but the story was complete with all the intrigue needed to keep me wrapped up in the story. I am so glad that I have found this series.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book from Kensington via NetGalley. All of the above opinions are my own.
Although I am fairly new to this series, I had previously read Knit to Kill so I was a little familiar with the women, Maggie, Phoebe, Dana, Suzanne and Lucy. This time they must rally around Suzanne as her temper has gotten her into a world of trouble. The plot is quickly paced with plenty of suspects, twists and turns and red herrings that made Suzanne look very guilty. I couldn't stop turning the pages to find out what the ladies were going to do next. This is a novella but the story was complete with all the intrigue needed to keep me wrapped up in the story. I am so glad that I have found this series.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book from Kensington via NetGalley. All of the above opinions are my own.
January 2, 2019
Suzanne doesn’t get along with her coworker, Liza, and starts a loud argument with her at a staff meeting. Later at her knitting group they talk her into trying to work it out so on her way home she sees her Coworker still at the office and stops. She finds Liza dead and becomes a suspect. The knitting group is sure she didn’t do it and steps in to help her find who really did it. Putting into jeopardy one of the knitting group’s relationships with her policeman boyfriend. An enjoyable read.
August 30, 2018
Purls and Poison is a fabulous addition to this series by Anne Canadeo.
When fellow knitter Suzanne has had it with a co worker, she has no idea that her actions and harsh words will make her a prime murder suspect.
This story is really intense and it kept me reading until the very end.
I love all the characters in this series and their bond with each other makes this a true hit.
I'm a huge fan of this series and I can't wait until the next book is out.
I volunteered to read and review an ARC of this book provided by the publisher and NetGalley.
When fellow knitter Suzanne has had it with a co worker, she has no idea that her actions and harsh words will make her a prime murder suspect.
This story is really intense and it kept me reading until the very end.
I love all the characters in this series and their bond with each other makes this a true hit.
I'm a huge fan of this series and I can't wait until the next book is out.
I volunteered to read and review an ARC of this book provided by the publisher and NetGalley.
November 11, 2018
Purls and Poison by Anne Canadeo takes us to Plum Harbor. Suzanne Cavanaugh is a realtor at Prestige Properties and she has had a difficult day. She is happy to spend time with her knitting friends that evening, so she can rant and then relax. Suzanne had clients and a listing stolen by Liza Devereaux which ended up in a heated argument at the staff meeting. On the way home, Suzanne passes by the realty office and notices Liza’s car outside. She decides to take her friends advice and make peace with Liza. Suzanne finds Liza sprawled on the floor of her cubicle with her broken pearls scattered around her. Detective Charles Mossbacher and his partner, Detective Frank Oliver are on the case. Unfortunately, Suzanne quickly rises to the top of the suspect list and the circumstantial evidence is mounting up. The knitters know that Suzanne is being framed for the crime, but they need proof. The ladies begin digging into Liza’s life to discover who wanted her out of the way. They need to work quickly because the case is unraveling Suzanne’s family and it is affecting another one of the knitter’s relationships. Join these five ladies in their latest investigation in Purls and Poison.
Purls and Poison is the second book in A Black Sheep & Company Mystery series, but it is tenth book involving the ladies of Plum Harbor (the series changed publisher & altered the series name). I do not recommend beginning the series with Purls and Poison. You will be missing the backstory on the characters. Plum Harbor is a charming seaside town that is home to a delightful knitting shop. The ladies (Maggie, Dana, Phoebe, Lucy and Suzanne) meet each week at the shop to knit, chat, and enjoy a meal while indulging in wine. Purls and Poison is told from Suzanne’s point-of-view. She is extremely angry at Liza for poaching her client and then selling them her listing (double whammy). It resulted in a heated exchange earlier in the day with all her co-workers in attendance (you can see where this is heading). Liza is then murdered, and all the evidence points to Suzanne. The book contains good writing with the regular cozy elements that readers enjoy, but the pacing was varied. The mystery has a handful of suspects, misdirection and pointed clues. Readers will have no problem identifying the guilty party before the solution is revealed. I could have done with less speculation and repetition of case details (which slowed down the pace of the story). I would have preferred if Purls and Poison was told from the third person perspective (instead of changing in each book). I am not a fan of Suzanne and her attitude in this story did not alter my opinion. We get limited information on the other knitters which is a shame (Maggie is my favorite character). One of our ladies is in for a life changing event (I do not want to spoil it for you). I did enjoy their participation in knitting items for charity. They were trying to complete a hundred items for families in need. There is a knitting pattern and recipe at the back of the book. Fans of Anne Canadeo and A Black Sheep Knitting Mystery series (the original series) will be delighted with Purls and Poison.
Purls and Poison is the second book in A Black Sheep & Company Mystery series, but it is tenth book involving the ladies of Plum Harbor (the series changed publisher & altered the series name). I do not recommend beginning the series with Purls and Poison. You will be missing the backstory on the characters. Plum Harbor is a charming seaside town that is home to a delightful knitting shop. The ladies (Maggie, Dana, Phoebe, Lucy and Suzanne) meet each week at the shop to knit, chat, and enjoy a meal while indulging in wine. Purls and Poison is told from Suzanne’s point-of-view. She is extremely angry at Liza for poaching her client and then selling them her listing (double whammy). It resulted in a heated exchange earlier in the day with all her co-workers in attendance (you can see where this is heading). Liza is then murdered, and all the evidence points to Suzanne. The book contains good writing with the regular cozy elements that readers enjoy, but the pacing was varied. The mystery has a handful of suspects, misdirection and pointed clues. Readers will have no problem identifying the guilty party before the solution is revealed. I could have done with less speculation and repetition of case details (which slowed down the pace of the story). I would have preferred if Purls and Poison was told from the third person perspective (instead of changing in each book). I am not a fan of Suzanne and her attitude in this story did not alter my opinion. We get limited information on the other knitters which is a shame (Maggie is my favorite character). One of our ladies is in for a life changing event (I do not want to spoil it for you). I did enjoy their participation in knitting items for charity. They were trying to complete a hundred items for families in need. There is a knitting pattern and recipe at the back of the book. Fans of Anne Canadeo and A Black Sheep Knitting Mystery series (the original series) will be delighted with Purls and Poison.
October 1, 2018
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for the chance to read this book!
Although this is book ten in the series, I had no trouble whatsoever falling into the crowd of Black Sheep knitters and solving a mystery with the number one suspect, Suzanne. This is a rare gift; sometimes books in a series that have been going this long need to be read from the beginning, but I'm glad to say Anne Canadeo can attract in new readers with these books, regardless of where you start. From the beginning I felt welcomed and was given just enough information on everything to make a decision about each character.
I really enjoyed the murder/mystery, and I felt like there was enough clues to really throw the reader off. I suspected one of the main twists, but it didn't work out exactly the way I had believed. I was still intrigued enough to invest in the mystery!
A really solid cozy book, I'll have to check out more of them. Five stars!
Although this is book ten in the series, I had no trouble whatsoever falling into the crowd of Black Sheep knitters and solving a mystery with the number one suspect, Suzanne. This is a rare gift; sometimes books in a series that have been going this long need to be read from the beginning, but I'm glad to say Anne Canadeo can attract in new readers with these books, regardless of where you start. From the beginning I felt welcomed and was given just enough information on everything to make a decision about each character.
I really enjoyed the murder/mystery, and I felt like there was enough clues to really throw the reader off. I suspected one of the main twists, but it didn't work out exactly the way I had believed. I was still intrigued enough to invest in the mystery!
A really solid cozy book, I'll have to check out more of them. Five stars!
December 10, 2018
This book kept me on the edge of my seat the whole time because of one of the knitters herself being accused of murdering her co-worker. As the story unfolded, it just seemed like poor Suzanne couldn't catch a break, because the police were uncovering yet more reasons why they thought she killed Liza.
Liza Devereaux was a major thorn in Suzanne Cavanaugh's side. She'd always been overly competitive in the real estate market, but stealing a $2 million dollar deal right out from Suzanne's nose made Suzanne really angry. Not angry enough to kill her, but who did and decided that it would be all fun and games if they framed Suzanne? That's what her knitter friends were going to find out, because clearly to them the police had no one else in their radar except their good friend. Even though Maggie's boyfriend was one of the detectives, Maggie didn't let that stop her from being fiercely loyal to Suzanne. How was Charles going to react to that?
I thought the book ended really great! It had an exciting showdown in which Suzanne showed a lot of bravery. I had one person in mind for the killer the whole time until the reveal. There were plenty of suspects and some red herrings along the way as well.
I haven't read all the books in the series before this one, but I have read the first two and was very quickly swept into their friendship and knitting circle. By the second book, they were old friends to me, so it was great to go back even though quite a few books had passed, and catch up with them. I do still intend to read all the books in between, but I couldn't resist requesting this one from NetGalley.
Disclaimer: I read and reviewed an ARC of this book provided by the publisher and NetGalley. My opinions are my own.
Liza Devereaux was a major thorn in Suzanne Cavanaugh's side. She'd always been overly competitive in the real estate market, but stealing a $2 million dollar deal right out from Suzanne's nose made Suzanne really angry. Not angry enough to kill her, but who did and decided that it would be all fun and games if they framed Suzanne? That's what her knitter friends were going to find out, because clearly to them the police had no one else in their radar except their good friend. Even though Maggie's boyfriend was one of the detectives, Maggie didn't let that stop her from being fiercely loyal to Suzanne. How was Charles going to react to that?
I thought the book ended really great! It had an exciting showdown in which Suzanne showed a lot of bravery. I had one person in mind for the killer the whole time until the reveal. There were plenty of suspects and some red herrings along the way as well.
I haven't read all the books in the series before this one, but I have read the first two and was very quickly swept into their friendship and knitting circle. By the second book, they were old friends to me, so it was great to go back even though quite a few books had passed, and catch up with them. I do still intend to read all the books in between, but I couldn't resist requesting this one from NetGalley.
Disclaimer: I read and reviewed an ARC of this book provided by the publisher and NetGalley. My opinions are my own.
November 23, 2018
This series just keeps getting better and better! Returning to Plum Harbor with Maggie and her crew of knitters was an absolute joy for me. Each character has developed in her own way, at her own pace, with life lessons learned and new reasons to celebrate. Not only was this installment a delight to read -- it hinted at the prospect of exciting things to come. I can't wait for the next offering in this charming cozy series.
October 31, 2019
This is a series I have been meaning to start reading, and I do wish I had done so sooner! Not only do I like the group of friends who meet at Black Sheep and Company for knitting, one would be hard pressed to find a group of friends who are this loyal to each other. The mystery is complex and challenging, and the characters are defined well through their conversations and actions.
Suzanne, wife and mother, knitter, and home seller, definitely had my attention from the start as she re-hashed the day she had with her business nemesis. The author describes her feelings so well that I could remember when I had disputes with co-workers and how heavily I carried them. While I can say that I never stooped to hair-pulling, if I had the incentive of losing real estate commissions I certainly might have! Suzanne certainly tried when Liza, the other pricey-homes seller in her office, stole what would have been her biggest sale to date. Bad news is that she had to see the boss and Liza the next morning. Sharing the events at her knitting group, her close friend and shop owner Maggie suggested she talk with Liza the next day and try to make it right with her. Maggie knows Liza in a different capacity, as a gifted knitter, devoted daughter and sister, and someone who was active in charitable work.
Tomorrow doesn't always come for everybody, though. Driving past the realty on her way home from knitting, Suzanne saw that the lights were still on and Liza's vehicle was parked outside. Since there is no time like the present, she went in to apologize to Liza. It was too late, as Liza was dead. She feels terrible, thinking that perhaps her outburst causing their argument could have caused her to die of a blood clot or heart attack.
At first, it appears to be a death due to natural causes. After labs and a search are done, the signs point to murder - by Suzanne. Several things send the police in her direction, and she is the only suspect. The lead detective, Maggie's guy Charles, and his partner, are focusing on her, causing problems between Maggie and Charles. When Suzanne is shown leaving the police station on TV news, it also causes problems for her children, especially one of her sons.
Maggie knows how it feels to be a suspect in a murder, and is determined to do what she can to help prove her innocent. The ladies in her knitting group ask questions, keep eyes and ears open, and do some research online to try to keep this woman out of prison, as the police decide to not look for anyone else.
This is a great mystery, with a finely executed plot surrounding a murderer who has completely framed Suzanne. It is also a great story about friendship, love, and loyalty, and looking for the good in those around us. I definitely want to go back to read earlier novels, partly to catch up a bit and partly to enjoy the series better knowing more of their history. I was stumped for part of the story, but grabbed onto a motive and a suspect I don't think anyone else did until it was almost too late. While I was partly right, I was also partly wrong. There are several surprises in this novel; a couple related to the crimes and a couple that will bring interesting, favorable changes to some of the characters in the future. I highly recommend this to those who appreciate well-written cozies mysteries, knitting, and good friends.
Suzanne, wife and mother, knitter, and home seller, definitely had my attention from the start as she re-hashed the day she had with her business nemesis. The author describes her feelings so well that I could remember when I had disputes with co-workers and how heavily I carried them. While I can say that I never stooped to hair-pulling, if I had the incentive of losing real estate commissions I certainly might have! Suzanne certainly tried when Liza, the other pricey-homes seller in her office, stole what would have been her biggest sale to date. Bad news is that she had to see the boss and Liza the next morning. Sharing the events at her knitting group, her close friend and shop owner Maggie suggested she talk with Liza the next day and try to make it right with her. Maggie knows Liza in a different capacity, as a gifted knitter, devoted daughter and sister, and someone who was active in charitable work.
Tomorrow doesn't always come for everybody, though. Driving past the realty on her way home from knitting, Suzanne saw that the lights were still on and Liza's vehicle was parked outside. Since there is no time like the present, she went in to apologize to Liza. It was too late, as Liza was dead. She feels terrible, thinking that perhaps her outburst causing their argument could have caused her to die of a blood clot or heart attack.
At first, it appears to be a death due to natural causes. After labs and a search are done, the signs point to murder - by Suzanne. Several things send the police in her direction, and she is the only suspect. The lead detective, Maggie's guy Charles, and his partner, are focusing on her, causing problems between Maggie and Charles. When Suzanne is shown leaving the police station on TV news, it also causes problems for her children, especially one of her sons.
Maggie knows how it feels to be a suspect in a murder, and is determined to do what she can to help prove her innocent. The ladies in her knitting group ask questions, keep eyes and ears open, and do some research online to try to keep this woman out of prison, as the police decide to not look for anyone else.
This is a great mystery, with a finely executed plot surrounding a murderer who has completely framed Suzanne. It is also a great story about friendship, love, and loyalty, and looking for the good in those around us. I definitely want to go back to read earlier novels, partly to catch up a bit and partly to enjoy the series better knowing more of their history. I was stumped for part of the story, but grabbed onto a motive and a suspect I don't think anyone else did until it was almost too late. While I was partly right, I was also partly wrong. There are several surprises in this novel; a couple related to the crimes and a couple that will bring interesting, favorable changes to some of the characters in the future. I highly recommend this to those who appreciate well-written cozies mysteries, knitting, and good friends.
November 7, 2018
Oh My Word, with this book Anne Canadeo has written a story which is up there with the great Crime Writers of the Golden Age!
Suzanne appears to have a loathe, loathe relationship with one of her co-workers, she is fed up of Liza pinching her Real Estate clients (and the ensuing commission!) and it all comes to a head at the weekly work meeting when Suzanne nearly gets into a full on cat fight with her. Luckily the Black Sheep knitters are able to calm her down, and when she sees Liza is still at the office she heads in to smooth things over, only to discover her dead, now all the evidence points at Suzanne and the other four ladies need to find out what happened before Suzanne ends up wearing Orange for the rest of her life.
With Maggie's Detective boyfriend being one of those in charge of the investigation the five snoops will need to tread carefully or everything will go wrong for all of them.
Suzanne appears to have a loathe, loathe relationship with one of her co-workers, she is fed up of Liza pinching her Real Estate clients (and the ensuing commission!) and it all comes to a head at the weekly work meeting when Suzanne nearly gets into a full on cat fight with her. Luckily the Black Sheep knitters are able to calm her down, and when she sees Liza is still at the office she heads in to smooth things over, only to discover her dead, now all the evidence points at Suzanne and the other four ladies need to find out what happened before Suzanne ends up wearing Orange for the rest of her life.
With Maggie's Detective boyfriend being one of those in charge of the investigation the five snoops will need to tread carefully or everything will go wrong for all of them.
November 12, 2018
*I received a free copy of this book which I voluntarily chose to write an honest review for.
What an adorable cozy mystery that centers itself around a group of knitters. This is an established group that doesn't really bat an eye at murder though they do get upset when one of them is the main suspect. These women really know how to rally to a cause finding clues left and right. A fun story fit for all ages just like the characters. A knitters delight. I really liked it so I give it 4/5 stars.
What an adorable cozy mystery that centers itself around a group of knitters. This is an established group that doesn't really bat an eye at murder though they do get upset when one of them is the main suspect. These women really know how to rally to a cause finding clues left and right. A fun story fit for all ages just like the characters. A knitters delight. I really liked it so I give it 4/5 stars.
May 14, 2019
This is book 10 in the “ Black Sheep Knitting Mystery” Series . I love this series, I have read five of the books up to this point and I was very excited that I got to review this one. The story features a group of friends who meet weekly at Maggie’s Yarn shop to eat , talk and knit while putting the world to right . In book 10 we see Suzanne ( a real estate broker ) having trouble at work with one of her colleagues who is trying to steal her clients . It all reaches a pivotal point and then all hell brakes loose .
I have to say I love this series and my favorite thing about it is the talk about all the yarn and knitting ( let’s be real ) and the friendship between this close knit ( see what I did there ) group of friends. This little group are amazing strong women , smart , and full of gumption ... who would not want to be friends with these ladies . Suzanne needs her friends most in this latest mystery and it’s incredible enjoyable following them along for the ride . I loved every single page .
I received this book from Netgalley and Kensington books in exchange for a review .
The book is being published October 30th and will be available from all good bookstores then
I have to say I love this series and my favorite thing about it is the talk about all the yarn and knitting ( let’s be real ) and the friendship between this close knit ( see what I did there ) group of friends. This little group are amazing strong women , smart , and full of gumption ... who would not want to be friends with these ladies . Suzanne needs her friends most in this latest mystery and it’s incredible enjoyable following them along for the ride . I loved every single page .
I received this book from Netgalley and Kensington books in exchange for a review .
The book is being published October 30th and will be available from all good bookstores then
December 1, 2022
This was an easy and quick palate cleanser after finishing Tender is the Flesh by Agustina Bazterrica (be warned about that one).
The writing flowed easily and I enjoyed it even if I saw the twist coming from the very beginning. I don't think this book is meant for you to use your brain around too much, it's just a cozy fluff on a fall afternoon. I didn't even realize it's part of a series (and it's actually the 10th one!) but it didn't take away from my enjoyment, it works just fine as a standalone. Personally would have preferred it to be told from a third-person perspective because I can't say that I'm a fan of the main character and being in her thoughts wasn't all that nice. It also got a bit repetitive at times. All in all, it's a fun 3-star book.
The writing flowed easily and I enjoyed it even if I saw the twist coming from the very beginning. I don't think this book is meant for you to use your brain around too much, it's just a cozy fluff on a fall afternoon. I didn't even realize it's part of a series (and it's actually the 10th one!) but it didn't take away from my enjoyment, it works just fine as a standalone. Personally would have preferred it to be told from a third-person perspective because I can't say that I'm a fan of the main character and being in her thoughts wasn't all that nice. It also got a bit repetitive at times. All in all, it's a fun 3-star book.
April 21, 2019
Abandoned. With a cat on the cover and mention of a knitting group I thought it might be a pleasant light read. Maybe many readers will enjoy it but it is not for me.
I hesitate to criticise it but the writing just didn’t work for me. I wasn't engaged with any of the characters who seemed more sketched out than fully drawn in depth. I did my usual trick after a couple of chapters left me questioning whether I wanted to continue; I read the end and then worked backward dipping in at a few points
Nothing grabbed me so I tried a bit more before giving in.
I hesitate to criticise it but the writing just didn’t work for me. I wasn't engaged with any of the characters who seemed more sketched out than fully drawn in depth. I did my usual trick after a couple of chapters left me questioning whether I wanted to continue; I read the end and then worked backward dipping in at a few points
Nothing grabbed me so I tried a bit more before giving in.
November 8, 2019
https://openbooksociety.com/article/p...
Purls and Poison
Black Sheep Knitting Mysteries, Book #10
By Anne Canadeo
ISBN 9781496708632
Author Website: annecanadeo(.)com
Brought to you by OBS Reviewer Jeanie
Synopsis:
When a fellow Black Sheep Knitter is suspected of poisoning her coworker, the group puts down their needles and takes up their friend’s defense . . .
Suzanne Cavanaugh has just about had it with her office rival at Prestige Properties. It’s bad enough that Liza Devereaux is constantly needling her at work, but when she shows up at one of Suzanne’s open houses to poach potential buyers, it’s the last straw. No one in the office fails to hear the two snarling at each other.
When Liza is later found dead in her office cubicle–poisoned by a diet shake–Suzanne becomes the prime suspect. It’s soon discovered, though, that Liza had double-crossed so many around town and stashed their dark secrets in her designer handbags that anyone could be the culprit.
The Black Sheep Knitters have no doubt their friend has been framed–but they need to prove it. Stirred to action, they get together to catch a sneaky killer who’s trying to pull the wool over everyone’s eyes… (Goodreads)
Review:
I really enjoyed Purls and Poison! It is the first I’ve read in this series, and I really must go back and read the earlier ones! While I crochet instead of knit, it will become one of my favorite yarn series. The New England setting sounds beautiful, the ladies at Maggie’s yarn store are the very best friends anyone could hope to have, and plot twists keep the mystery moving quickly along.
Suzanne is a saleswoman at Premier Properties, one of the two high-value home sellers. Her competition is also her nemesis; Liza is the top seller in the office. One of the ways she accomplishes that is by stealing a deal here and there from Suzanne. Today was the angriest Suzanne had ever been with Liza. Lyle, the man who handles the few commercial leases and sales in town, had to grab her to prevent her pulling Liza’s hair extensions. When she arrives, late, at the knitting group at Black Sheep and Company, she spends a bit of time spewing out anger and confessing her own misbehavior. Harry, the head of her firm, wants to see both ladies the next morning; Suzanne is afraid of losing her job.
Maggie, one of Suzanne’s closest friends, also knows Liza. Liza takes a different class from her, and invited Maggie to visit her mom, Ruth, to give a demonstration or class on knitting at the assisted living facility she lives in. Ruth, a lifelong knitter, had a stroke some time ago and is having a hard time making friends. Liza suggested a charity for the groups to do knitting projects for to gift others with for Christmas, only ten weeks away. Knowing Liza better – or differently – than Suzanne does, Maggie suggests that she talk with her before the meeting, explain she doesn’t want to lose her job, and agree to work better with her in the future. It is more important that they work together.
The class let out late. Knowing her husband, Kevin, would be asleep already, Suzanne drove past her office. Against the odds, the office is still lit up and Liza’s SUV is still parked outside. Preferring to talk with her now and get it done with, she went in. The front door was unlocked, and she doesn’t hear anyone, even when she calls out to Liza. Liza, however, can’t hear her. Suzanne finds her lying on the floor, eyes open, with no heartbeat.
Horrified that Liza may have had a heart attack or stroke due to their fight, she was very upset when she called 9-1-1. The police arrive, then detectives Charles and Frank. Charles is the man who Maggie has been dating for a long time. At first it appears that she died of some sort of natural causes. Less than a day later, however, Suzanne is the person of interest. Her boss suggests she works from home due to the press the office is getting. It could be a matter of hours, or days, before Suzanne could be arrested. Since she didn’t do it, someone else did – and nobody will admit that anyone may have disliked Liza enough to plan a crime so intricately that every detail could be attributed to Suzanne.
The characters are very well defined. These very best of friends care enough to be honest with each other as well as help each other out against the odds…even if it causes problems with other loved ones. I liked Suzanne and Maggie, and appreciate what each of the women went through, Suzanne with her children and Maggie with her boyfriend. Even Ruth, Liza’s mother, was able to come to terms with the fact that Suzanne just might be innocent.
This mystery is very well-written, with plot twists that just keep coming! I like that there is a good balance between the mystery and the women’s relationships. In some ways, it might be easier to read some of the earlier novels in the series to better appreciate the shop and relationships that have been built over the years. I was able to figure out most of the people and situations, but it took a little while. The problem between Liza and Suzanne had been building a long time and losing commissions on luxury homes would get to the kindest of folks. It was hard to narrow down the list of suspects! In the end, I was right about who killed Liza, but the why wasn’t the same as I would have thought. Liza had many secrets, one that seemed a big enough reason to kill for. The end is very satisfactory and there are no loose ends; there are, however, delightful surprises for the future of some of the friendsI highly recommend it!
*OBS would like to thank the publisher for supplying a free copy of this title in exchange for an honest review*
Purls and Poison
Black Sheep Knitting Mysteries, Book #10
By Anne Canadeo
ISBN 9781496708632
Author Website: annecanadeo(.)com
Brought to you by OBS Reviewer Jeanie
Synopsis:
When a fellow Black Sheep Knitter is suspected of poisoning her coworker, the group puts down their needles and takes up their friend’s defense . . .
Suzanne Cavanaugh has just about had it with her office rival at Prestige Properties. It’s bad enough that Liza Devereaux is constantly needling her at work, but when she shows up at one of Suzanne’s open houses to poach potential buyers, it’s the last straw. No one in the office fails to hear the two snarling at each other.
When Liza is later found dead in her office cubicle–poisoned by a diet shake–Suzanne becomes the prime suspect. It’s soon discovered, though, that Liza had double-crossed so many around town and stashed their dark secrets in her designer handbags that anyone could be the culprit.
The Black Sheep Knitters have no doubt their friend has been framed–but they need to prove it. Stirred to action, they get together to catch a sneaky killer who’s trying to pull the wool over everyone’s eyes… (Goodreads)
Review:
I really enjoyed Purls and Poison! It is the first I’ve read in this series, and I really must go back and read the earlier ones! While I crochet instead of knit, it will become one of my favorite yarn series. The New England setting sounds beautiful, the ladies at Maggie’s yarn store are the very best friends anyone could hope to have, and plot twists keep the mystery moving quickly along.
Suzanne is a saleswoman at Premier Properties, one of the two high-value home sellers. Her competition is also her nemesis; Liza is the top seller in the office. One of the ways she accomplishes that is by stealing a deal here and there from Suzanne. Today was the angriest Suzanne had ever been with Liza. Lyle, the man who handles the few commercial leases and sales in town, had to grab her to prevent her pulling Liza’s hair extensions. When she arrives, late, at the knitting group at Black Sheep and Company, she spends a bit of time spewing out anger and confessing her own misbehavior. Harry, the head of her firm, wants to see both ladies the next morning; Suzanne is afraid of losing her job.
Maggie, one of Suzanne’s closest friends, also knows Liza. Liza takes a different class from her, and invited Maggie to visit her mom, Ruth, to give a demonstration or class on knitting at the assisted living facility she lives in. Ruth, a lifelong knitter, had a stroke some time ago and is having a hard time making friends. Liza suggested a charity for the groups to do knitting projects for to gift others with for Christmas, only ten weeks away. Knowing Liza better – or differently – than Suzanne does, Maggie suggests that she talk with her before the meeting, explain she doesn’t want to lose her job, and agree to work better with her in the future. It is more important that they work together.
The class let out late. Knowing her husband, Kevin, would be asleep already, Suzanne drove past her office. Against the odds, the office is still lit up and Liza’s SUV is still parked outside. Preferring to talk with her now and get it done with, she went in. The front door was unlocked, and she doesn’t hear anyone, even when she calls out to Liza. Liza, however, can’t hear her. Suzanne finds her lying on the floor, eyes open, with no heartbeat.
Horrified that Liza may have had a heart attack or stroke due to their fight, she was very upset when she called 9-1-1. The police arrive, then detectives Charles and Frank. Charles is the man who Maggie has been dating for a long time. At first it appears that she died of some sort of natural causes. Less than a day later, however, Suzanne is the person of interest. Her boss suggests she works from home due to the press the office is getting. It could be a matter of hours, or days, before Suzanne could be arrested. Since she didn’t do it, someone else did – and nobody will admit that anyone may have disliked Liza enough to plan a crime so intricately that every detail could be attributed to Suzanne.
The characters are very well defined. These very best of friends care enough to be honest with each other as well as help each other out against the odds…even if it causes problems with other loved ones. I liked Suzanne and Maggie, and appreciate what each of the women went through, Suzanne with her children and Maggie with her boyfriend. Even Ruth, Liza’s mother, was able to come to terms with the fact that Suzanne just might be innocent.
This mystery is very well-written, with plot twists that just keep coming! I like that there is a good balance between the mystery and the women’s relationships. In some ways, it might be easier to read some of the earlier novels in the series to better appreciate the shop and relationships that have been built over the years. I was able to figure out most of the people and situations, but it took a little while. The problem between Liza and Suzanne had been building a long time and losing commissions on luxury homes would get to the kindest of folks. It was hard to narrow down the list of suspects! In the end, I was right about who killed Liza, but the why wasn’t the same as I would have thought. Liza had many secrets, one that seemed a big enough reason to kill for. The end is very satisfactory and there are no loose ends; there are, however, delightful surprises for the future of some of the friendsI highly recommend it!
*OBS would like to thank the publisher for supplying a free copy of this title in exchange for an honest review*
November 9, 2018
Review of PURLS AND POISON by Anne Canadeo
(Black Sheep Knitting Mysteries #10)
Such a prolific author, such good mysteries! I raced through PURLS AND POISON, not sidetracking to read something else, as I do often. Not with this one! I so admire this strong group friendship, these ladies go all out for each other, sacrificing personal concerns when necessary. Friendship over all!
Suzanne and a work colleague, Liza, “have it out” (or at least Suzanne does), and Suzanne fears her unseemly outburst may cost her position at Prestige Properties real estate agency. But that night, when she tries to apologize, she finds the coworker dead! Suzanne becomes not just a person of interest, but soon is the prime suspect, and the Black Sheep Knitters will not take this lying down! They KNOW Suzanne is no killer, and they set out to prove it, and speedily.
(Black Sheep Knitting Mysteries #10)
Such a prolific author, such good mysteries! I raced through PURLS AND POISON, not sidetracking to read something else, as I do often. Not with this one! I so admire this strong group friendship, these ladies go all out for each other, sacrificing personal concerns when necessary. Friendship over all!
Suzanne and a work colleague, Liza, “have it out” (or at least Suzanne does), and Suzanne fears her unseemly outburst may cost her position at Prestige Properties real estate agency. But that night, when she tries to apologize, she finds the coworker dead! Suzanne becomes not just a person of interest, but soon is the prime suspect, and the Black Sheep Knitters will not take this lying down! They KNOW Suzanne is no killer, and they set out to prove it, and speedily.
November 8, 2024
This is between 3 and 4 stars for me. (5 stars is a one I'd read again, and that doesn't usually happen for the mystery genre, once I know whodunit.) I did thoroughly enjoy it (4 stars), but there were other 4-star books in the series that I preferred.
I've always thought that Suzanne is over-the-top, and in this case, it gets her investigated for murder, when a workplace rival dies.
I can't imagine a professional yelling and leaning over to pull someone's hair.
Ruth is my favorite character. Unfortunately, she's not a repeating character.
I love that the knitting club is still knitting for charitable causes.
I also understand about the competitive victim secretly donating to charities. It reminds me of an apt description I heard of someone real, "He's not very friendly, but he's a good person."
It also made me think of another series, that starts with "A Penny for Your Thoughts" in which the investigator tries to discover those secretly (or not so secretly) doing good in order to reward them with money for their causes.
In this case, though, no one is investigating Liza's charitable giving, and they don't discover it until after she'd died. It came as a surprise to them.
The moral of this story is to be kind, or at least respectful to everyone, in order to avoid regret.
This volume made me think of some twins that I know.
I guessed Kira's secret, but I did not guess what Charles would do. I knew what the important clue would be. I did not guess whodunit.
One of the other reviewers appreciated that this was written such that we had a shot at solving it along with the protagonist.
With all the books in this genre that include police intentionally misinterpreting and mangling someone's statements, it makes me wonder if that is a frequent real-life problem. I hope it's just a book-problem, like the main characters commonly meeting up one-on-one with a murder suspect, or withholding evidence from the police, etc. At least I hope those aren't real life either.
We think that surely we can give a rational explanation and that we'll be believed, but sometimes there are legitimate reasons to want a lawyer.
I do have a friend whose husband faced that issue and claims he eventually just told them what they wanted to hear so he could get rest.
"Favorite" quote, or maybe just most apt:
"I'm not surprised. People are so quick to judge."
I've noticed that as well. I think it's often just because believing a bad thing is just more interesting, or make them smug that they're "in the know." People are often quick to believe something bad even when the person has been careful to keep a good reputation for a long time, rather than give the benefit of the doubt.
I've always thought that Suzanne is over-the-top, and in this case, it gets her investigated for murder, when a workplace rival dies.
I can't imagine a professional yelling and leaning over to pull someone's hair.
Ruth is my favorite character. Unfortunately, she's not a repeating character.
I love that the knitting club is still knitting for charitable causes.
I also understand about the competitive victim secretly donating to charities. It reminds me of an apt description I heard of someone real, "He's not very friendly, but he's a good person."
It also made me think of another series, that starts with "A Penny for Your Thoughts" in which the investigator tries to discover those secretly (or not so secretly) doing good in order to reward them with money for their causes.
In this case, though, no one is investigating Liza's charitable giving, and they don't discover it until after she'd died. It came as a surprise to them.
The moral of this story is to be kind, or at least respectful to everyone, in order to avoid regret.
This volume made me think of some twins that I know.
I guessed Kira's secret, but I did not guess what Charles would do. I knew what the important clue would be. I did not guess whodunit.
One of the other reviewers appreciated that this was written such that we had a shot at solving it along with the protagonist.
With all the books in this genre that include police intentionally misinterpreting and mangling someone's statements, it makes me wonder if that is a frequent real-life problem. I hope it's just a book-problem, like the main characters commonly meeting up one-on-one with a murder suspect, or withholding evidence from the police, etc. At least I hope those aren't real life either.
We think that surely we can give a rational explanation and that we'll be believed, but sometimes there are legitimate reasons to want a lawyer.
I do have a friend whose husband faced that issue and claims he eventually just told them what they wanted to hear so he could get rest.
"Favorite" quote, or maybe just most apt:
"I'm not surprised. People are so quick to judge."
I've noticed that as well. I think it's often just because believing a bad thing is just more interesting, or make them smug that they're "in the know." People are often quick to believe something bad even when the person has been careful to keep a good reputation for a long time, rather than give the benefit of the doubt.
February 12, 2019
PURLS AND POISON BY Anne Canadeo is tenth book in the Black Sheep Knitting Mysteries series taking place in Plum Harbor. It can definitely be read as a standalone.
PURLS AND POISON is the story of Suzanne Cavanaugh becoming the Essex County Police Department’s number one suspect in a murder case. Suzanne works at Prestige Properties alongside her rival, Liza Devereaux. Although they both work hard, Suzanne feels that Liza is stealing work and commissions from her which comes to a head at an office meeting when Suzanne felt Liza was poaching her client and stealing her commission. Tempers flared coming just short of blows. There’s no secret to the animosity between the two. When Liza turns up dead, Suzanne becomes the police’s prime suspect
Suzanne has a lot in her corner from her devoted husband, her son who gets a black eye sticking up for her, her newly hired lawyer, and a bunch of great friends - The Blacksheep Knitters. They are all determined to find answer to who murdered Liza and why they were trying to frame Suzanne for it. Maggie and Lucy even engage Liza’s mother to help them find clues. After all, all they all want is for the REAL killer to be punished for such a horrendous crime.
Life gets complicated for Maggie, Suzanne’s friend, when she has to decide whether to support her friend, who she knows is innocent, or sit idly by while her boyfriend, Detective Charles Mossbacher, railroads her best friend. She knew what she had to do and it ended up moving her relationship from about to move in together to not talking to each other at all. She was a true testament to true friendship – when you put another before yourself.
Along the way, there are a lot of twists and turns that add more people to the suspect list, take others off the list when alibis are substantiated, as well as finding out family secrets and past events that no one knew about. Are they solving one crime or two? The author definitely keeps you engaged and turning pages trying to figure out whodunit. The final reveal is surprising, but makes the story all the more exciting. Once you know the answer you will wonder why you didn’t see it coming.
Recommend this book to anyone that loves a wonderful cozy mystery, great characters and that will have you guessing to the very end. It’s well written and well worth the read. I now want to check out the other nine books in this series.
PURLS AND POISON is the story of Suzanne Cavanaugh becoming the Essex County Police Department’s number one suspect in a murder case. Suzanne works at Prestige Properties alongside her rival, Liza Devereaux. Although they both work hard, Suzanne feels that Liza is stealing work and commissions from her which comes to a head at an office meeting when Suzanne felt Liza was poaching her client and stealing her commission. Tempers flared coming just short of blows. There’s no secret to the animosity between the two. When Liza turns up dead, Suzanne becomes the police’s prime suspect
Suzanne has a lot in her corner from her devoted husband, her son who gets a black eye sticking up for her, her newly hired lawyer, and a bunch of great friends - The Blacksheep Knitters. They are all determined to find answer to who murdered Liza and why they were trying to frame Suzanne for it. Maggie and Lucy even engage Liza’s mother to help them find clues. After all, all they all want is for the REAL killer to be punished for such a horrendous crime.
Life gets complicated for Maggie, Suzanne’s friend, when she has to decide whether to support her friend, who she knows is innocent, or sit idly by while her boyfriend, Detective Charles Mossbacher, railroads her best friend. She knew what she had to do and it ended up moving her relationship from about to move in together to not talking to each other at all. She was a true testament to true friendship – when you put another before yourself.
Along the way, there are a lot of twists and turns that add more people to the suspect list, take others off the list when alibis are substantiated, as well as finding out family secrets and past events that no one knew about. Are they solving one crime or two? The author definitely keeps you engaged and turning pages trying to figure out whodunit. The final reveal is surprising, but makes the story all the more exciting. Once you know the answer you will wonder why you didn’t see it coming.
Recommend this book to anyone that loves a wonderful cozy mystery, great characters and that will have you guessing to the very end. It’s well written and well worth the read. I now want to check out the other nine books in this series.
November 20, 2018
The idea of a group of lady knitters, best friends, sitting around with a glass of vino, trying to solve a murder mystery definitely piques the interest, huh? This particular entry to the series has Suzanne as a prominent character, although Maggie imparts some wisdom as well. The group consists of Suzanne, Maggie, Dana, Lucy, and Phoebe. Suzanne is an upper-level real estate agent and apparently has some serious office competition in Liza Devereaux. Liza is very good at what she does and manages to take a client and a sale from Suzanne that would have earned her a douzy commission. They fight, publicly, big time.
After meeting with her Black Sheep Knitting group (and mellowing out some), she is ready to offer an apology only to be the one who discovers Liza's body. Maggie's significant other is Detective Charles Mossbacher. It is Charles along with his partner Frank who take the emotional Suzanne in for questioning. I particularly appreciated Maggie, the owner of the knitting shop. Charles is a good guy just trying to do his job. The ladies are trying to do theirs--not for the first time apparently.
The well-plotted storyline moves along at an even pace. The group enjoys each other's company and exchange ideas and it's a pleasure to partake, even if vicariously, in their get-togethers. There are red herrings, diversion of possible perps, investigated and dismissed or pursued. The dialogue is easy and natural and the conclusion swings in unexpectedly, though not wholly a surprise.
Unfortunately, once again, I've come in at the second in the series and get the feeling I may have missed some important developing going on in the first of the series. So you might wish to begin with the first. I was given this ebook download by the publisher and NetGalley and greatly appreciated the opportunity to read and review. Recommended for those who enjoy cozy mysteries, crafting hobbies including knitting, and women sleuths. 3.5/5
See my full review at https://rosepointpublishing.com/2018/...
After meeting with her Black Sheep Knitting group (and mellowing out some), she is ready to offer an apology only to be the one who discovers Liza's body. Maggie's significant other is Detective Charles Mossbacher. It is Charles along with his partner Frank who take the emotional Suzanne in for questioning. I particularly appreciated Maggie, the owner of the knitting shop. Charles is a good guy just trying to do his job. The ladies are trying to do theirs--not for the first time apparently.
The well-plotted storyline moves along at an even pace. The group enjoys each other's company and exchange ideas and it's a pleasure to partake, even if vicariously, in their get-togethers. There are red herrings, diversion of possible perps, investigated and dismissed or pursued. The dialogue is easy and natural and the conclusion swings in unexpectedly, though not wholly a surprise.
Unfortunately, once again, I've come in at the second in the series and get the feeling I may have missed some important developing going on in the first of the series. So you might wish to begin with the first. I was given this ebook download by the publisher and NetGalley and greatly appreciated the opportunity to read and review. Recommended for those who enjoy cozy mysteries, crafting hobbies including knitting, and women sleuths. 3.5/5
See my full review at https://rosepointpublishing.com/2018/...
October 25, 2018
This is the tenth installment of the Black Sheep Knitting series. Suzanne gets into a very nasty argument with her competitive co-worker over a disputed real estate commission. At the suggestion of her friends, she decides to apologize to her the next day but is surprised to drive by and see Liza's car in the office parking area. She is the one who finds her dead but nothing seems suspicious. But when circumstantial evidence begins to build against their friend, Maggie and the rest of the Black Sheep decide to investigate what is now deemed a murder. This doesn't sit well with Maggie's steady boyfriend, Charles, who is one of the investigators in the case and her actions may jeopardize their relationship.
I've only read the first book in the series and I really liked it. I didn't feel at all behind the author did a great job of giving the reader enough information about the characters to read this as a standalone. I do plan on reading the books in between. The mystery itself was well-written with several good plot twists, clever method of murder, and a good number of suspects--each with a plausible motive for murder. Overall, it was an enjoyable cozy read.
Thanks to NetGalley and Kensington Books for a complimentary advance digital copy of this book. My review is voluntary.
I've only read the first book in the series and I really liked it. I didn't feel at all behind the author did a great job of giving the reader enough information about the characters to read this as a standalone. I do plan on reading the books in between. The mystery itself was well-written with several good plot twists, clever method of murder, and a good number of suspects--each with a plausible motive for murder. Overall, it was an enjoyable cozy read.
Thanks to NetGalley and Kensington Books for a complimentary advance digital copy of this book. My review is voluntary.
December 11, 2018
Princess Fuzzypants here: At the beginning of the book I wan’t sure I was going to like Suzanne. She was justified in being angry with her rival but she took it to such an extreme she was over the top. But was she so over the top that she would murder the woman. Liza’s death by Botox in a diet shake was pretty bizarre. And Suzanne has not made it any easier for herself by her actions and reactions.
In fact, she is an obvious suspect and with the ham-handed evidence against her, she would have qualified for the stupid murderers show. It is a good thing she has her knitting friends who not only believe her innocence but refuse to stop investigating, even if it poisons a romance. It becomes a choice between loyalty and love.
It was a cracking good story that kept me involved. I liked the way the murder victim instead of being a cardboard character turns into someone unknown to Suzanne. The reality that she had judged Liza and she was wrong makes her rethink her responses. it is a good lesson for all of us.
It turned out I had the villain pegged but for the wrong crime. When the final reveal came, it was impossible not to feel sad for all involved including the killer and the victim. It was a good quick read and highly entertaining.
Four purrs and two paws up.
In fact, she is an obvious suspect and with the ham-handed evidence against her, she would have qualified for the stupid murderers show. It is a good thing she has her knitting friends who not only believe her innocence but refuse to stop investigating, even if it poisons a romance. It becomes a choice between loyalty and love.
It was a cracking good story that kept me involved. I liked the way the murder victim instead of being a cardboard character turns into someone unknown to Suzanne. The reality that she had judged Liza and she was wrong makes her rethink her responses. it is a good lesson for all of us.
It turned out I had the villain pegged but for the wrong crime. When the final reveal came, it was impossible not to feel sad for all involved including the killer and the victim. It was a good quick read and highly entertaining.
Four purrs and two paws up.
January 7, 2019
This is apparently the 10th book in the 'Black Sheep & Co Mystery' series. It's a series based on a knitting shop & group who involve themselves in local murders. It seems to me that each book involves a different MC, however, rotating through the group so that we get to know each of them better.
Suzanne is okay as an MC. She doesn't come across as particularly sympathetic, although does move through her emotions during the course of the book to realise that she had seen the victim in a different light than everyone else (we all have experiences of this, though, don't we?). But I don't know the characters well, so it's hard to say whether this is typical of her, or whether she's different when she's helping in a different way.
The mystery was good, although the little twist wasn't much of a surprise and was easy to figure out. I didn't, however, guess the murderer, so that's good!
Overall, it was enjoyable and a decent read. I'm not really a knitter, so hunting down the others in the series probably isn't going to be a priority for me, but I would definitely read another one (or two, or three) if the opportunity arose. The writing is strong and there's a history here that needs further exploration.
Thank you to NetGalley, the author and publisher for providing me with an ARC to read and review. All opinions are strictly my own.
Suzanne is okay as an MC. She doesn't come across as particularly sympathetic, although does move through her emotions during the course of the book to realise that she had seen the victim in a different light than everyone else (we all have experiences of this, though, don't we?). But I don't know the characters well, so it's hard to say whether this is typical of her, or whether she's different when she's helping in a different way.
The mystery was good, although the little twist wasn't much of a surprise and was easy to figure out. I didn't, however, guess the murderer, so that's good!
Overall, it was enjoyable and a decent read. I'm not really a knitter, so hunting down the others in the series probably isn't going to be a priority for me, but I would definitely read another one (or two, or three) if the opportunity arose. The writing is strong and there's a history here that needs further exploration.
Thank you to NetGalley, the author and publisher for providing me with an ARC to read and review. All opinions are strictly my own.
November 2, 2018
I could read the Black Sheep mysteries just for the wonderful, warm and funny female friendships. But watching the women rally around their friend Suzanne made this an especially compelling read. Suzanne is a shoot-from-the-hip kind of gal. She acts quickly on her emotions and suffers the consequences later, which made her very relatable. So when her emotional reaction to a colleague's dirty dealing makes her a key suspect in that colleague's murder, I could not stop turning the pages to find out if she would be absolved. Like her friends, I really wondered if the gig was up for Suzanne--the twists and turns kept me guessing. She was all too human, which made me root for her as her friends helped her uncover the truth. I also loved how some of the subplots were developed--particularly Maggie's relationship with the police chief and how her butting into the details of the the investigation to help her friend affected their story--lots of emotional suspense in that storyline, too. All-in-all a great read. Can't wait for the next one.
October 14, 2018
How did they release book 10 and I’m just finding this author?
When realtor Suzanne is the prime suspect in the murder of her nemesis and coworker, the ladies in her knitting club come to her rescue. But th8ngs are looking pretty bleak for Suzanne, but with friends who have your back and put their own neck on the line for you, there’s still hope.
What Suzanne and the gang discover is far more than who done it. They find that the murder victim was more than they just saw her to be. It’s a good lesson for all of us to think about and learn more about people before being so quick to judge them.
I enjoyed the ladies of the black sheep knitting club and loom forward to reading more in this series. The only reason I gave it four stars is because Suzanne is a tad whiny and self absorbed. Granted she learns her lesson, but it was a bit annoying. From what I have read, th stories are to,s from. Other characters voices as well. So I’m going to check those out. Good read though.
When realtor Suzanne is the prime suspect in the murder of her nemesis and coworker, the ladies in her knitting club come to her rescue. But th8ngs are looking pretty bleak for Suzanne, but with friends who have your back and put their own neck on the line for you, there’s still hope.
What Suzanne and the gang discover is far more than who done it. They find that the murder victim was more than they just saw her to be. It’s a good lesson for all of us to think about and learn more about people before being so quick to judge them.
I enjoyed the ladies of the black sheep knitting club and loom forward to reading more in this series. The only reason I gave it four stars is because Suzanne is a tad whiny and self absorbed. Granted she learns her lesson, but it was a bit annoying. From what I have read, th stories are to,s from. Other characters voices as well. So I’m going to check those out. Good read though.
November 13, 2018
I don't know how I have missed this series before. A group of mature women, knitters, business owners, etc is quite the sort of book I enjoy.
I know I will go back and find more books from this author.
The characters are well developed and people I would like to know.
I enjoy the relationship between them, and the men in their lives.
Suzanne's difficulty with a coworker is something I am sure we have all come across now and then. Someone who waits until much of the difficult work is done and then swoops in and takes credit.
However there is a moral underneath the sad bits of the story - we never do know what someone else is going through. Almost all people, no matter the bad they do, have some good about them.
There are many secrets between the lines and behind the scenes. Changes are happening for many players. Enjoy a couple hours and get lost with these wonderful ladies. You may even find yourself desiring to do some good at the end.
I know I will go back and find more books from this author.
The characters are well developed and people I would like to know.
I enjoy the relationship between them, and the men in their lives.
Suzanne's difficulty with a coworker is something I am sure we have all come across now and then. Someone who waits until much of the difficult work is done and then swoops in and takes credit.
However there is a moral underneath the sad bits of the story - we never do know what someone else is going through. Almost all people, no matter the bad they do, have some good about them.
There are many secrets between the lines and behind the scenes. Changes are happening for many players. Enjoy a couple hours and get lost with these wonderful ladies. You may even find yourself desiring to do some good at the end.
March 9, 2019
Black Sheep Knitter Suzanne Cavanaugh is not getting along with Liza Devereaux, her rival at Prestige Properties after Liza poaches a client out from under her. So when Liza turns up dead, and the evidence points in Suzanne's direction, the police are sure she murdered her.
But the Black Sheep Knitters have no doubt their friend has been framed, and they are ready to prove it.
This is the first book in this series that I've read, and I requested it from NetGalley because so many of my friends told me what a good series it was. As they usually are with their recommendations, they were very right. I was hooked from the first page, and loved watching the Black Sheep Knitters solve Liza's murder.
The characters are wonderfully drawn, and the book very well written. There are lots of clues, and great mystery. I love knowing that there are nine books before this that I can read and savor.
I received a digital copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley.
But the Black Sheep Knitters have no doubt their friend has been framed, and they are ready to prove it.
This is the first book in this series that I've read, and I requested it from NetGalley because so many of my friends told me what a good series it was. As they usually are with their recommendations, they were very right. I was hooked from the first page, and loved watching the Black Sheep Knitters solve Liza's murder.
The characters are wonderfully drawn, and the book very well written. There are lots of clues, and great mystery. I love knowing that there are nine books before this that I can read and savor.
I received a digital copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley.
February 18, 2024
Liza Devereaux is irretrievably dead the night Suzanne Cavanaugh finds her in the realty office where they both work. Earlier in the day, the two had engaged in the snarling cat fight of cat fights. While driving home from the knitters club meeting, Suzanne sees lights on in the realty office and pulls in to see who’s working late and why. She fears Liza is attempting to poach another buyer from her.
Ah, but Liza will never poach another buyer from anyone. The cops later determine someone poisoned her by putting Botox into a diet protein shake. The shake can had Suzanne’s initials on it, and that’s enough for the cops to insist she killed the woman.
But the other Black Sheep knitters aren’t prepared to buy into that. They stand with their friend to the end of the book—an ending that will likely surprise and satisfy you.
It’s probably best to read the series in order because each character in the group gets focus in one book or another.
Ah, but Liza will never poach another buyer from anyone. The cops later determine someone poisoned her by putting Botox into a diet protein shake. The shake can had Suzanne’s initials on it, and that’s enough for the cops to insist she killed the woman.
But the other Black Sheep knitters aren’t prepared to buy into that. They stand with their friend to the end of the book—an ending that will likely surprise and satisfy you.
It’s probably best to read the series in order because each character in the group gets focus in one book or another.
November 1, 2018
Purls and Poison is the 10th book in the cozy mystery series about the Black Sheep knitting club. When one of their own members is accused of murder, these amateur sleuths are determined to clear her name and find the killer. Multiple suspects and plot twists occur and it becomes apparent to the group that fellow knitter Suzanne is being framed.
This is a fast paced, clever who-done-it with strong, engaging female characters. The novel can be read as a stand-alone, although most readers will want to try other books in this fun series.
An extra treat was the recipe for Suzanne's Celebration Chocolate Cake with Coconut Icing. It made a nice addition to this delicious series.
This is a fast paced, clever who-done-it with strong, engaging female characters. The novel can be read as a stand-alone, although most readers will want to try other books in this fun series.
An extra treat was the recipe for Suzanne's Celebration Chocolate Cake with Coconut Icing. It made a nice addition to this delicious series.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 83 reviews