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A Handcrafted Mystery #1
A Crafter Knits a Clue
For fans of Betty Hechtman and Maggie Sefton, the latest craft frenzy is Holly Quinn’s Handcrafted series debut.
Sammy Kane just moved back to her hometown to run a craft store. But when the owner of a nearby yarn shop is murdered, Sammy will needle little help finding the killer.
When a heartbroken Samantha “Sammy” Kane returns to her hometown of Heartsford, WI, for her best friend Kate’s funeral, she learns that Kate’s much-loved craft store is in danger of perishing with its owner. Confounding all her expectations of the life she would live, Sammy moves back home with her golden retriever and takes over Community Craft. A few doors down Main Street, fellow new arrival Ingrid Wilson has just opened the Yarn Barn, a real “purl” of a shop. But when Sammy strolls over to see if Ingrid could use a little help, she finds Ingrid’s dead body—with a green aluminum knitting needle lodged in her throat.
Detective Liam Nash is thrown for a loop as every single citizen of Heartsford seems to have a theory about Ingrid’s murder. And nearly everyone in town seems to be a suspect. But the last time Sammy did any sleuthing was as a little moppet. And this is not fun and games. Sammy is eager to help the handsome Liam—who seems to be endlessly inventive in finding reasons to talk with her—and when Liam arrests affable woodworker Miles Danbury, Sammy puts everything on the line to help clear Miles.
As the case comes dangerously close to unraveling, Sammy must stitch the clues together. But the killer has other plans—and if Sammy’s not careful, she may wind up in a perilous knot in A Crafter Knits a Clue, the first warm and woolly yarn of Holly Quinn’s new Handcrafted mysteries.
Sammy Kane just moved back to her hometown to run a craft store. But when the owner of a nearby yarn shop is murdered, Sammy will needle little help finding the killer.
When a heartbroken Samantha “Sammy” Kane returns to her hometown of Heartsford, WI, for her best friend Kate’s funeral, she learns that Kate’s much-loved craft store is in danger of perishing with its owner. Confounding all her expectations of the life she would live, Sammy moves back home with her golden retriever and takes over Community Craft. A few doors down Main Street, fellow new arrival Ingrid Wilson has just opened the Yarn Barn, a real “purl” of a shop. But when Sammy strolls over to see if Ingrid could use a little help, she finds Ingrid’s dead body—with a green aluminum knitting needle lodged in her throat.
Detective Liam Nash is thrown for a loop as every single citizen of Heartsford seems to have a theory about Ingrid’s murder. And nearly everyone in town seems to be a suspect. But the last time Sammy did any sleuthing was as a little moppet. And this is not fun and games. Sammy is eager to help the handsome Liam—who seems to be endlessly inventive in finding reasons to talk with her—and when Liam arrests affable woodworker Miles Danbury, Sammy puts everything on the line to help clear Miles.
As the case comes dangerously close to unraveling, Sammy must stitch the clues together. But the killer has other plans—and if Sammy’s not careful, she may wind up in a perilous knot in A Crafter Knits a Clue, the first warm and woolly yarn of Holly Quinn’s new Handcrafted mysteries.
330 pages, Hardcover
First published July 30, 2019
145 people are currently reading
1056 people want to read
About the author
Holly Quinn
8 books348 followersDid you know? Holly Quinn also writes under the pseudonym: Holly Danvers. Look for Murder at the Lakeside Library and Long Overdue at the Lakeside Library here on Goodreads!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 250 reviews
April 25, 2018
Author Holly Quinn debuts a crafty new cozy series set in scenic Wisconsin. Right away, the story appeals emotionally as Sammy Kane, owner of the Community Craft Store thinks of her late friend, Kate, and the close relationship Sammy’s developed with her teenage son, Carter, since Kate’s unexpected death. The town of Heartsford is a close knit and caring community, and Sammy’s store stocks many handmade goods by the townsfolk. Local craft groups also meet at the store.
The victim is a woman not well-liked in the town. Detective Liam Nash is assigned the murder case and Sammy likes his personality. When the investigation isn’t progressing fast enough to suit Sammy, she and her sister, Elle, and their cousin, Heidi, resurrect their childhood detective club, S.H.E., by channeling their inner Nancy Drew’s, and pledge to solve the crime!
Protagonist, Sammy’s character comes across as brusque, at times, and impulsive, however, she’s obviously a caring and concerned citizen. I liked her sister and cousin, too, and Sammy’s faithful golden retriever, Bara. I look for Liam and Sammy’s relationship to heat up in future books.
While the first half of this story moved slowly and dialogue or description was somewhat choppy and stilted at times; the second half read swiftly as revelations came to light and the motive behind the mystery began to make sense. I was flipping pages fast, thoroughly absorbed in the developing plot and eager to know what was going to happen and who the killer would be.
I’m so glad I kept reading because I enjoyed all the bits and pieces coming together for a satisfying conclusion. The author includes two sock patterns for knitters.
I reviewed a digital ARC provided by NetGalley and Crooked Lane Books.
The victim is a woman not well-liked in the town. Detective Liam Nash is assigned the murder case and Sammy likes his personality. When the investigation isn’t progressing fast enough to suit Sammy, she and her sister, Elle, and their cousin, Heidi, resurrect their childhood detective club, S.H.E., by channeling their inner Nancy Drew’s, and pledge to solve the crime!
Protagonist, Sammy’s character comes across as brusque, at times, and impulsive, however, she’s obviously a caring and concerned citizen. I liked her sister and cousin, too, and Sammy’s faithful golden retriever, Bara. I look for Liam and Sammy’s relationship to heat up in future books.
While the first half of this story moved slowly and dialogue or description was somewhat choppy and stilted at times; the second half read swiftly as revelations came to light and the motive behind the mystery began to make sense. I was flipping pages fast, thoroughly absorbed in the developing plot and eager to know what was going to happen and who the killer would be.
I’m so glad I kept reading because I enjoyed all the bits and pieces coming together for a satisfying conclusion. The author includes two sock patterns for knitters.
I reviewed a digital ARC provided by NetGalley and Crooked Lane Books.
October 20, 2018
Dollycas’s Thoughts
Knit one, purl MURDER!
Sammy Kane has returned to Heartsford for her best friend Kate’s funeral and when she hears the craft store will close without a new owner Sammy decides to stay and take over the store. Community Craft has become a gathering place for the crafters in the area and also allows them to sell their creations.
There is also another new shop owner in town. Ingrid Wilson has opened a store selling the most beautiful barn. While Sammy is happy to have The Yarn Barn in town, the owner is always needing help in one way or another. She has no problem calling Sammy’s employee, Kate’s little brother, with tasks she says she just handle. Carter and Sammy are trying to get Community Craft ready for the annual Spring Fling when Ingrid calls Carter for help. Sammy tells Carter to keep doing what he is doing while she handles a couple of things and then she will go over to help Ingrid. When she arrives, she finds yarn shop order dead on the floor, a knitting needle the killer’s weapon of choice.
Heartsford also has a new police detective. Sammy meets Liam Nash when he arrives on the scene. He learns right away about a tragedy in a small town – Everyone has an opinion and are not afraid to point fingers at any other resident they think committed the crime. Sammy has a little experience as a sleuth herself. S.H.E. was detective club of Sammy, her sister Elle, and their cousin Heidi had in their childhood. Like Nancy Drew, they solved several “crimes”. The group reunites when they think Detective Liam Nash is not solving Ingrid’s murder fast enough. They realize it’s not as easy as they thought especially when Sammy is threatened physically to back off.
****
Heartsford, if it was an actual town would be a short drive from where I live in Wisconsin. I know the author lives nearby too because she has captured Springtime in Wisconsin perfectly. It is one of the places you can experience all four seasons in one day. Mother Nature is very fickle in the Spring. It can be snowing in the morning, the sun comes out in the early afternoon with rising temps, then later the wind picks up and by night she will throw a good old fashioned thunderstorm at us. Heck, there are days when it rains in the front yard while the sun is shining brightly in the backyard. 😎
Holly Quinn has inhabited Heartsford with fantastic residents too! So many crafters. I liked that in addition to the shops in town we see how important the school is to this community. School events play a huge part to the people in Heartsford and Wisconsin in general. Carter is on the basketball team and Big Ten scouts are at the game watching him and other players with scholarships hopes. The Spring Fling is more than just a shopping event, there is a parade that reminded me of the usual homecoming parade but for the winter sports. It was heartwarming that the town came together to support its own even with a murderer on the loose.
The investigation had many facets. Sammy is a very observant person but so is the good detective. He found several ways to come in contact with Sammy, even sharing some unknown details while she filled him on things she had uncovered. Of course, he wants her to leave everything to him, but that was never going to happen. It was fun to follow along with S.H.E. and watching Sammy spar with Liam.
This book follows what almost all first books in series’ do. It’s pace, in the beginning, is a little slow because the author has to introduce all the characters, their relationships and where they fit into the landscape of the town. The pace picks up nicely in the second half as clues start to fall into place and suspects are honed in on or eliminated. The murder mystery was wrapped up nicely at the end but there is a cliffhanger leading to the next story. Love that!
This series is off to a splendid start. The story has a real hometown feel with characters I want to get to know better. I love that Sammy’s golden retriever is welcome and spends days with her at the store. The community was realistic. The mystery was well-plotted and executed. As a former crafter, I love the theme. All my cozy boxes were checked. I am excited about the next installment.
*There are two sock patterns too after the story.
Knit one, purl MURDER!
Sammy Kane has returned to Heartsford for her best friend Kate’s funeral and when she hears the craft store will close without a new owner Sammy decides to stay and take over the store. Community Craft has become a gathering place for the crafters in the area and also allows them to sell their creations.
There is also another new shop owner in town. Ingrid Wilson has opened a store selling the most beautiful barn. While Sammy is happy to have The Yarn Barn in town, the owner is always needing help in one way or another. She has no problem calling Sammy’s employee, Kate’s little brother, with tasks she says she just handle. Carter and Sammy are trying to get Community Craft ready for the annual Spring Fling when Ingrid calls Carter for help. Sammy tells Carter to keep doing what he is doing while she handles a couple of things and then she will go over to help Ingrid. When she arrives, she finds yarn shop order dead on the floor, a knitting needle the killer’s weapon of choice.
Heartsford also has a new police detective. Sammy meets Liam Nash when he arrives on the scene. He learns right away about a tragedy in a small town – Everyone has an opinion and are not afraid to point fingers at any other resident they think committed the crime. Sammy has a little experience as a sleuth herself. S.H.E. was detective club of Sammy, her sister Elle, and their cousin Heidi had in their childhood. Like Nancy Drew, they solved several “crimes”. The group reunites when they think Detective Liam Nash is not solving Ingrid’s murder fast enough. They realize it’s not as easy as they thought especially when Sammy is threatened physically to back off.
****
Heartsford, if it was an actual town would be a short drive from where I live in Wisconsin. I know the author lives nearby too because she has captured Springtime in Wisconsin perfectly. It is one of the places you can experience all four seasons in one day. Mother Nature is very fickle in the Spring. It can be snowing in the morning, the sun comes out in the early afternoon with rising temps, then later the wind picks up and by night she will throw a good old fashioned thunderstorm at us. Heck, there are days when it rains in the front yard while the sun is shining brightly in the backyard. 😎
Holly Quinn has inhabited Heartsford with fantastic residents too! So many crafters. I liked that in addition to the shops in town we see how important the school is to this community. School events play a huge part to the people in Heartsford and Wisconsin in general. Carter is on the basketball team and Big Ten scouts are at the game watching him and other players with scholarships hopes. The Spring Fling is more than just a shopping event, there is a parade that reminded me of the usual homecoming parade but for the winter sports. It was heartwarming that the town came together to support its own even with a murderer on the loose.
The investigation had many facets. Sammy is a very observant person but so is the good detective. He found several ways to come in contact with Sammy, even sharing some unknown details while she filled him on things she had uncovered. Of course, he wants her to leave everything to him, but that was never going to happen. It was fun to follow along with S.H.E. and watching Sammy spar with Liam.
This book follows what almost all first books in series’ do. It’s pace, in the beginning, is a little slow because the author has to introduce all the characters, their relationships and where they fit into the landscape of the town. The pace picks up nicely in the second half as clues start to fall into place and suspects are honed in on or eliminated. The murder mystery was wrapped up nicely at the end but there is a cliffhanger leading to the next story. Love that!
This series is off to a splendid start. The story has a real hometown feel with characters I want to get to know better. I love that Sammy’s golden retriever is welcome and spends days with her at the store. The community was realistic. The mystery was well-plotted and executed. As a former crafter, I love the theme. All my cozy boxes were checked. I am excited about the next installment.
*There are two sock patterns too after the story.
September 29, 2018
A Crafter Knits a Clue is the first book in the new Handcrafted Mystery series. Samanatha Kane has recently moved back to Heartsford, WI. She came back for her best friend's funeral but stayed to run Kate Allen's craft shop, Community Craft. The shop sells local artists' work on consignment and also sponsors community fundraisers and other projects. She just didn't have the heart to see the business close after her friend's death, especially since it is so important to the community. Just as the town is gearing up for the annual Spring Fling, tragedy strikes. Ingrid Wilson, owner of The Yarn Barn, is stabbed to death with a knitting needle in her shop. Ingrid was a difficult person...but she didn't deserve to be murdered. Sam joins forces with two of her childhood buddie, Heidi and Ellie. They used to play at detective in grade school. Things are little bit more serious when they are tracking a murderer!
A nice start to a new cozy series! There really isn't anything new here....there are a lot of crafting theme cozies. But, the characters are entertaining, the mystery is engaging and the theme of a local artists' consignment shop works nicely. I like Samanatha as a main character. She's putting her life together and helping the community and herself deal with the death of her good friend. The supporting cast of characters are great! I love how she pairs up with her old childhood sleuthing partners to solve the crime. Hunting down a killer is a lot different than searching out lost puppies and stolen bicycles though!
The mystery moved along at a nice pace with lots of clues, sleuthing and twists. The ending wasn't a total surprise, but the story held my attention from start to finish.
In the back of the book there are several knitting patterns for socks! :) Yay! I love it when cozies have crafting patterns included! As with most cozies, the cover is fantastic!
All in all, while there was nothing especially creative or new about this story, I enjoyed it. Entertaining and interesting! It made for a nice rainy day read. I will definitely be checking out more of this series.
**I voluntarily read an advanced readers copy of this book from Crooked Lane via NetGalley. All opinions expressed are entirely my own.**
A nice start to a new cozy series! There really isn't anything new here....there are a lot of crafting theme cozies. But, the characters are entertaining, the mystery is engaging and the theme of a local artists' consignment shop works nicely. I like Samanatha as a main character. She's putting her life together and helping the community and herself deal with the death of her good friend. The supporting cast of characters are great! I love how she pairs up with her old childhood sleuthing partners to solve the crime. Hunting down a killer is a lot different than searching out lost puppies and stolen bicycles though!
The mystery moved along at a nice pace with lots of clues, sleuthing and twists. The ending wasn't a total surprise, but the story held my attention from start to finish.
In the back of the book there are several knitting patterns for socks! :) Yay! I love it when cozies have crafting patterns included! As with most cozies, the cover is fantastic!
All in all, while there was nothing especially creative or new about this story, I enjoyed it. Entertaining and interesting! It made for a nice rainy day read. I will definitely be checking out more of this series.
**I voluntarily read an advanced readers copy of this book from Crooked Lane via NetGalley. All opinions expressed are entirely my own.**
September 29, 2018
A Crafter Knits a Clue is the first book in the new Handcrafted Mystery series. Samanatha Kane has recently moved back to Heartsford, WI. She came back for her best friend's funeral but stayed to run Kate Allen's craft shop, Community Craft. The shop sells local artists' work on consignment and also sponsors community fundraisers and other projects. She just didn't have the heart to see the business close after her friend's death, especially since it is so important to the community. Just as the town is gearing up for the annual Spring Fling, tragedy strikes. Ingrid Wilson, owner of The Yarn Barn, is stabbed to death with a knitting needle in her shop. Ingrid was a difficult person...but she didn't deserve to be murdered. Sam joins forces with two of her childhood buddie, Heidi and Ellie. They used to play at detective in grade school. Things are little bit more serious when they are tracking a murderer!
A nice start to a new cozy series! There really isn't anything new here....there are a lot of crafting theme cozies. But, the characters are entertaining, the mystery is engaging and the theme of a local artists' consignment shop works nicely. I like Samanatha as a main character. She's putting her life together and helping the community and herself deal with the death of her good friend. The supporting cast of characters are great! I love how she pairs up with her old childhood sleuthing partners to solve the crime. Hunting down a killer is a lot different than searching out lost puppies and stolen bicycles though!
The mystery moved along at a nice pace with lots of clues, sleuthing and twists. The ending wasn't a total surprise, but the story held my attention from start to finish.
In the back of the book there are several knitting patterns for socks! :) Yay! I love it when cozies have crafting patterns included! As with most cozies, the cover is fantastic!
All in all, while there was nothing especially creative or new about this story, I enjoyed it. Entertaining and interesting! It made for a nice rainy day read. I will definitely be checking out more of this series.
**I voluntarily read an advanced readers copy of this book from Crooked Lane via NetGalley. All opinions expressed are entirely my own.**
A nice start to a new cozy series! There really isn't anything new here....there are a lot of crafting theme cozies. But, the characters are entertaining, the mystery is engaging and the theme of a local artists' consignment shop works nicely. I like Samanatha as a main character. She's putting her life together and helping the community and herself deal with the death of her good friend. The supporting cast of characters are great! I love how she pairs up with her old childhood sleuthing partners to solve the crime. Hunting down a killer is a lot different than searching out lost puppies and stolen bicycles though!
The mystery moved along at a nice pace with lots of clues, sleuthing and twists. The ending wasn't a total surprise, but the story held my attention from start to finish.
In the back of the book there are several knitting patterns for socks! :) Yay! I love it when cozies have crafting patterns included! As with most cozies, the cover is fantastic!
All in all, while there was nothing especially creative or new about this story, I enjoyed it. Entertaining and interesting! It made for a nice rainy day read. I will definitely be checking out more of this series.
**I voluntarily read an advanced readers copy of this book from Crooked Lane via NetGalley. All opinions expressed are entirely my own.**
September 4, 2018
I was excited to read a crafting cozy since it has been a while for one in that subgenre. Unfortunately, this was not the book for me. The protagonist, Sammy, runs a Community Craft store. There is a nearby yarn shop where the actual murder in the story took place. There is no strong connection between Sammy and the victim so I didn't feel any real interest in solving the crime. The author also tries to develop a romantic interest between Sammy and the new detective in town, Liam but that also disappoints. Sammy's character is immature and one-dimensional.
Thanks to NetGalley and Crooked Lane Books for an advance digital copy of this book. My review is voluntary.
Thanks to NetGalley and Crooked Lane Books for an advance digital copy of this book. My review is voluntary.
October 4, 2018
The first book in this and it is the first time I have read this author and I will read her again. I found a light and relaxing read. The writing flowed freely and the MC's were developed.
Samantha “Sammy” Kane has returned to Heartsford, Wisconsin to run the community craft store that was so important to the area. Close by is a yarnshop, the owner is found murder with knitting needle by Sammy. She decides with her sister and cousin to find the killer. Homicide detective, Lian Nash is annoy with the group and wants to go let the police to do do tell work. Romance occurs for all three the girls who managed to get themself in trouble but do find the clues to solve the case. I recommend this book. Knitting patterns are included
I recommend this book.
Disclosure: Many thanks to Crooked Lane Books for a review copy. The opinions expressed are my own.
Samantha “Sammy” Kane has returned to Heartsford, Wisconsin to run the community craft store that was so important to the area. Close by is a yarnshop, the owner is found murder with knitting needle by Sammy. She decides with her sister and cousin to find the killer. Homicide detective, Lian Nash is annoy with the group and wants to go let the police to do do tell work. Romance occurs for all three the girls who managed to get themself in trouble but do find the clues to solve the case. I recommend this book. Knitting patterns are included
I recommend this book.
Disclosure: Many thanks to Crooked Lane Books for a review copy. The opinions expressed are my own.
September 18, 2018
Release Date: October 9, 2018
Genre: Cozy Mystery
Actual Rating: 4 stars
This is the perfect mystery for all cozy lovers! It has a sweet set of characters who become real to their readers and a fun and fulfilling plot! I very much recommend this great debut!
Full Review to Come
Genre: Cozy Mystery
Actual Rating: 4 stars
This is the perfect mystery for all cozy lovers! It has a sweet set of characters who become real to their readers and a fun and fulfilling plot! I very much recommend this great debut!
Full Review to Come
October 9, 2018
A Crafter Knits A Clue is the first book in the A Handcrafted Mystery series.
Samantha “Sammy” Kane returned to her small hometown three years ago to attend her best friend, Kate Allen’s funeral. While there she decided to stay and take over Kate’s Community Craft store. The businesses are all busy putting up decorations for annual Spring Fling. Carter Allen, Kate’s brother, get a phone call from Ingrid, who own the knit shop next door, asking for help with her decoration. Sammy says she can wait for a few minutes, Ingrid is one who feels that everyone should drop what they are doing to help her. A few minutes later she heads over to Ingrid’s shop, only to find her lifeless body, having been stabbed with a knitting needle.
Heartsford has a new police detective and Sammy immediately locks horns with him when the investigation brings about the arrest of Miles Danbury, a local crafter that sells his work in Sammy’s. Sammy is sure that no way is Danbury a murderer and begins her own investigation. She enlists the help of her sister Ellie and their cousin Heidi to aide her. When they were young they were fans of Nancy Drew and called themselves: S.H.E. and searched for lost puppies and figure how hard can it be.
I think the book is well written and provides the reader with an exciting and interesting story. I enjoyed reading about the residents of Heartsford and look forward to learning more about them in future books.
A description of different types of yarn is also included, as is a pattern that can either be knitted or crocheted.
Samantha “Sammy” Kane returned to her small hometown three years ago to attend her best friend, Kate Allen’s funeral. While there she decided to stay and take over Kate’s Community Craft store. The businesses are all busy putting up decorations for annual Spring Fling. Carter Allen, Kate’s brother, get a phone call from Ingrid, who own the knit shop next door, asking for help with her decoration. Sammy says she can wait for a few minutes, Ingrid is one who feels that everyone should drop what they are doing to help her. A few minutes later she heads over to Ingrid’s shop, only to find her lifeless body, having been stabbed with a knitting needle.
Heartsford has a new police detective and Sammy immediately locks horns with him when the investigation brings about the arrest of Miles Danbury, a local crafter that sells his work in Sammy’s. Sammy is sure that no way is Danbury a murderer and begins her own investigation. She enlists the help of her sister Ellie and their cousin Heidi to aide her. When they were young they were fans of Nancy Drew and called themselves: S.H.E. and searched for lost puppies and figure how hard can it be.
I think the book is well written and provides the reader with an exciting and interesting story. I enjoyed reading about the residents of Heartsford and look forward to learning more about them in future books.
A description of different types of yarn is also included, as is a pattern that can either be knitted or crocheted.
October 5, 2018
A Crafter Knits a Clue by Holly Quinn is the first novel in A Handcrafted Mystery series. Samantha “Sammy” Kane took over running the Community Craft store in Heartsford, Wisconsin three years prior after her best friend, Kate Allen passed away in a tragic accident. Sammy and her part-time employee, Carter Allen are working on decorating the store for Spring Fling when she gets a call from Ingrid Wilson who owns The Yarn Barn. Since Ingrid had opened her shop, she calls frequently needing assistance. Sammy finds the back door to The Yarn Barn open and legs sticking out from behind the counter. Ingrid has a green aluminum knitting needle jutting out of her throat. Detective Liam Nash, the town’s handsome new detective, is on the case. When he arrests Miles Danbury, a woodworker for the crime, Sammy, with the assistance of her cousin and sister, sets out solve the twisty whodunit. They need to knit together the clues to reveal the killer. Ingrid was not a popular resident which provides an array of suspects. Sammy needs to be careful or she could end up in a knotty situation.
A Crafter Knits a Clue is an engaging cozy mystery. Sammy Kane came to town for her best friend’s funeral and ends up returning to town permanently. The town relies on Community Craft for selling their craft items as well as a meeting place. It is a central hub for Heartsford, Wisconsin. Sammy took over the store and keeps an eye on best friend’s younger brother, Carter. Sammy is not alone in Heartsford. She has her sister, Ellie and her cousin, Heidi. The three of them grew up together and formed an amateur sleuthing club when they were children. I enjoyed the interactions between the three women (some of them will have you snickering). You can tell that they care for each and are supportive. Sammy can be a bit impulsive and brusque (especially with Liam). I did not like the way she dealt with Liam at times (put me on edge). She has her reasons which come to light later in the story. I liked the author’s writing style (conversational) which made the story easy to read especially with its steady pacing. I appreciated that the author took the time to provide the main characters background and establish the town. It helps me to imagine the characters and setting which brings a story to life for me. Ingrid’s home was especially appealing along with the handcrafted items in Community Craft. The mystery was uncomplicated. There is active investigating as the threesome hunt for clues and suspects. There are a few suspects and pointed clues. Readers will have no problem unraveling this whodunit. There are knitting patterns for socks at the end for those of you handy with knitting needles. A Crafter Knits a Clue is a pleasurable start to A Handcrafted Mystery series. I am giving A Crafter Knits a Clue 4 out of 5 stars (I liked it). A Crafter Knits a Clue combines family, friends, food and crafts into one charming cozy mystery.
A Crafter Knits a Clue is an engaging cozy mystery. Sammy Kane came to town for her best friend’s funeral and ends up returning to town permanently. The town relies on Community Craft for selling their craft items as well as a meeting place. It is a central hub for Heartsford, Wisconsin. Sammy took over the store and keeps an eye on best friend’s younger brother, Carter. Sammy is not alone in Heartsford. She has her sister, Ellie and her cousin, Heidi. The three of them grew up together and formed an amateur sleuthing club when they were children. I enjoyed the interactions between the three women (some of them will have you snickering). You can tell that they care for each and are supportive. Sammy can be a bit impulsive and brusque (especially with Liam). I did not like the way she dealt with Liam at times (put me on edge). She has her reasons which come to light later in the story. I liked the author’s writing style (conversational) which made the story easy to read especially with its steady pacing. I appreciated that the author took the time to provide the main characters background and establish the town. It helps me to imagine the characters and setting which brings a story to life for me. Ingrid’s home was especially appealing along with the handcrafted items in Community Craft. The mystery was uncomplicated. There is active investigating as the threesome hunt for clues and suspects. There are a few suspects and pointed clues. Readers will have no problem unraveling this whodunit. There are knitting patterns for socks at the end for those of you handy with knitting needles. A Crafter Knits a Clue is a pleasurable start to A Handcrafted Mystery series. I am giving A Crafter Knits a Clue 4 out of 5 stars (I liked it). A Crafter Knits a Clue combines family, friends, food and crafts into one charming cozy mystery.
April 14, 2018
Wow, this is one hell of a sweet book - and I don't mean that as a compliment.
Sammy has returned home to a small town in Wisconsin and is running a community shop which her best friend had set up before dying. Somehow, Sammy ends up popping to a neighbouring shop and discovers the owner has been murdered. This is where we meet Detective Liam Nash. New to the area and of course, he's going to be the love interest for Sammy - but they keep rubbing each other up the wrong way and in the end Sammy and her sister and cousin decide to look into the murder.
The way that Sammy speaks to people who she is supposed to have a long standing history with is bizarre. and when she has a run in with someone, it seems to all calm down within a matter of minutes. Not at all realistic in my opinion.
Descriptions of movements in the book are a little too . . . laboured, I suppose would be the word to describe them and not very well executed.
I managed to read this in one sitting, thankfully. If I had had to return to this book too many times, I don't think I could have coped.
If you are looking for a nice, easy read which isn't going to tax your imagination too much - BINGO but I'm afraid that this just isn't the book for me and I will not be reading anymore in this series.
Many thanks to Netgalley for a free copy of the book in return for an honest review.
Sammy has returned home to a small town in Wisconsin and is running a community shop which her best friend had set up before dying. Somehow, Sammy ends up popping to a neighbouring shop and discovers the owner has been murdered. This is where we meet Detective Liam Nash. New to the area and of course, he's going to be the love interest for Sammy - but they keep rubbing each other up the wrong way and in the end Sammy and her sister and cousin decide to look into the murder.
The way that Sammy speaks to people who she is supposed to have a long standing history with is bizarre. and when she has a run in with someone, it seems to all calm down within a matter of minutes. Not at all realistic in my opinion.
Descriptions of movements in the book are a little too . . . laboured, I suppose would be the word to describe them and not very well executed.
I managed to read this in one sitting, thankfully. If I had had to return to this book too many times, I don't think I could have coped.
If you are looking for a nice, easy read which isn't going to tax your imagination too much - BINGO but I'm afraid that this just isn't the book for me and I will not be reading anymore in this series.
Many thanks to Netgalley for a free copy of the book in return for an honest review.
January 8, 2021
I wish I could give this book a higher rating. Honestly. However, while the overall story wasn’t bad, and I enjoyed the familiar Southern Wisconsin setting, there were issues that irritated me. A closer attention to editing and grammar, for two. My particular peeve here is the author’s penchant for ending statements with question marks—that annoying millennial habit of what is referred to as “upspeak,” where every sentence ends in questioning inflection. It makes the speaker sound weak, timid and as though they aren’t sure of what they are saying. Not to mention how annoying it is. For example: “Me and Tiffany were having pizza? At The Grotto? There were a lot of people there?” Ugh! It’s extremely disjointed and annoying, and got on my nerves.
Another issue that bothered me was the frequency with which the owner of a small business sits in her office with the store unattended. I have worked retail in a small Indy shop. Rule one was never leave the register/front area of the store unattended. Helping customers is one thing, but slipping into a closed office or storage room when no one else was there to watch the register? Not. Done.
I also had difficulty understanding the layout of the store, and would have appreciated a map, either an actual printed one at front of the book, or a better description of the layout. At the beginning, it sounded as though the office and storage room were both at back of the store, inside the rear entrance. But then near the end of the book, the main character was comparing her floor plan to another store’s and said the office was behind the register. And whether the register was near the front door or middle of the shop also seemed in question.
One can only hope the overall editing and writing improve with the next book in the series.
Another issue that bothered me was the frequency with which the owner of a small business sits in her office with the store unattended. I have worked retail in a small Indy shop. Rule one was never leave the register/front area of the store unattended. Helping customers is one thing, but slipping into a closed office or storage room when no one else was there to watch the register? Not. Done.
I also had difficulty understanding the layout of the store, and would have appreciated a map, either an actual printed one at front of the book, or a better description of the layout. At the beginning, it sounded as though the office and storage room were both at back of the store, inside the rear entrance. But then near the end of the book, the main character was comparing her floor plan to another store’s and said the office was behind the register. And whether the register was near the front door or middle of the shop also seemed in question.
One can only hope the overall editing and writing improve with the next book in the series.
November 26, 2018
I might sound like a repeat when I say that I really wanted to love this book as much as I do some of the other handcrafted books about knitting or crocheting, but I just can't truthfully say that. I liked it, but that was all. It was a good mystery, and I was interested in following it through to the end. But I couldn't get that attached to the characters. They seemed somewhat juvenile, especially the arguments that Sammy and Det. Nash had. I couldn't really imagine talking to a detective like that and not getting tossed in jail lol.
I did love the idea that Sammy had taken over her best friend Kate's shop and carried on her idea of selling the town's handmade goods. I thought a store like that in a town would be really cool, a fun gathering place. The town's basketball star worked for Sammy, and she thought of him as her little brother since he was Kate's little brother. When the yarn shop owner was killed and Sammy saw a suspicious man hanging around, she and her cousin Heidi and her sister Ellie decided to make like detectives and investigate.
One line intrigued me and I'm wondering if that was purposely a teaser or just a killer lashing out. I won't say what the line is, but if you read it, I think you'll know what I mean!
Disclaimer: I read and voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book provided by the publisher and NetGalley. My opinions are my own.
I did love the idea that Sammy had taken over her best friend Kate's shop and carried on her idea of selling the town's handmade goods. I thought a store like that in a town would be really cool, a fun gathering place. The town's basketball star worked for Sammy, and she thought of him as her little brother since he was Kate's little brother. When the yarn shop owner was killed and Sammy saw a suspicious man hanging around, she and her cousin Heidi and her sister Ellie decided to make like detectives and investigate.
One line intrigued me and I'm wondering if that was purposely a teaser or just a killer lashing out. I won't say what the line is, but if you read it, I think you'll know what I mean!
Disclaimer: I read and voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book provided by the publisher and NetGalley. My opinions are my own.
October 4, 2018
I had a really hard time getting into this book. I thought the premise sound good and that I would enjoy it. Unfortunately, I could not connect with the main characters. I found her a bit too brusque for my taste. I also had difficulty with the pace of the book. It was very slow and uneven in terms of the writing and the plot. I'm not sure I would continue with this series.
I voluntarily read an advanced reader copy provided to me by the publisher through Netgalley.
I voluntarily read an advanced reader copy provided to me by the publisher through Netgalley.
October 13, 2018
Synopsis:
For fans of Betty Hechtman and Maggie Sefton, the latest craft frenzy is Holly Quinn’s Handcrafted series debut.
Sammy Kane just moved back to her hometown to run a craft store. But when the owner of a nearby yarn shop is murdered, Sammy will needle little help finding the killer.
When a heartbroken Samantha “Sammy” Kane returns to her hometown of Heartsford, WI, for her best friend Kate’s funeral, she learns that Kate’s much-loved craft store is in danger of perishing with its owner. Confounding all her expectations of the life she would live, Sammy moves back home with her golden retriever and takes over Community Craft. A few doors down Main Street, fellow new arrival Ingrid Wilson has just opened the Yarn Barn, a real “purl” of a shop. But when Sammy strolls over to see if Ingrid could use a little help, she finds Ingrid’s dead body—with a green aluminum knitting needle lodged in her throat.
Detective Liam Nash is thrown for a loop as every single citizen of Heartsford seems to have a theory about Ingrid’s murder. And nearly everyone in town seems to be a suspect. But the last time Sammy did any sleuthing was as a little moppet. And this is not fun and games. Sammy is eager to help the handsome Liam—who seems to be endlessly inventive in finding reasons to talk with her—and when Liam arrests affable woodworker Miles Danbury, Sammy puts everything on the line to help clear Miles.
As the case comes dangerously close to unraveling, Sammy must stitch the clues together. But the killer has other plans—and if Sammy’s not careful, she may wind up in a perilous knot in A Crafter Knits a Clue, the first warm and woolly yarn of Holly Quinn’s new Handcrafted mysteries. (Goodreads)
Review:
I think the thing I liked best about this book is the caring relationships that Sammy has with so many family and friends. You can tell that the core characters love each other and enjoy spending time with each other. You can tell how much Sammy misses her friend, Kate, who has passed away. Many things remind her about their friendship and I found this very touching and realistic.
The author is very talented in her descriptive writing and I really felt like I was in Heartsford. I really loved the concept of the Community Craft. I think it sounds like a great place and I would like to be able to shop there. Plus it adds to the feeling of the loving community that Sammy lives in (except for the killer).
I think this a great start to a new cozy series and I would recommend it to those who enjoy a well crafted cozy. I will definitely read the next one when it is published.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book provided by the publisher, Crooked Lane Books, and NetGalley, which I greatly appreciate.
For fans of Betty Hechtman and Maggie Sefton, the latest craft frenzy is Holly Quinn’s Handcrafted series debut.
Sammy Kane just moved back to her hometown to run a craft store. But when the owner of a nearby yarn shop is murdered, Sammy will needle little help finding the killer.
When a heartbroken Samantha “Sammy” Kane returns to her hometown of Heartsford, WI, for her best friend Kate’s funeral, she learns that Kate’s much-loved craft store is in danger of perishing with its owner. Confounding all her expectations of the life she would live, Sammy moves back home with her golden retriever and takes over Community Craft. A few doors down Main Street, fellow new arrival Ingrid Wilson has just opened the Yarn Barn, a real “purl” of a shop. But when Sammy strolls over to see if Ingrid could use a little help, she finds Ingrid’s dead body—with a green aluminum knitting needle lodged in her throat.
Detective Liam Nash is thrown for a loop as every single citizen of Heartsford seems to have a theory about Ingrid’s murder. And nearly everyone in town seems to be a suspect. But the last time Sammy did any sleuthing was as a little moppet. And this is not fun and games. Sammy is eager to help the handsome Liam—who seems to be endlessly inventive in finding reasons to talk with her—and when Liam arrests affable woodworker Miles Danbury, Sammy puts everything on the line to help clear Miles.
As the case comes dangerously close to unraveling, Sammy must stitch the clues together. But the killer has other plans—and if Sammy’s not careful, she may wind up in a perilous knot in A Crafter Knits a Clue, the first warm and woolly yarn of Holly Quinn’s new Handcrafted mysteries. (Goodreads)
Review:
I think the thing I liked best about this book is the caring relationships that Sammy has with so many family and friends. You can tell that the core characters love each other and enjoy spending time with each other. You can tell how much Sammy misses her friend, Kate, who has passed away. Many things remind her about their friendship and I found this very touching and realistic.
The author is very talented in her descriptive writing and I really felt like I was in Heartsford. I really loved the concept of the Community Craft. I think it sounds like a great place and I would like to be able to shop there. Plus it adds to the feeling of the loving community that Sammy lives in (except for the killer).
I think this a great start to a new cozy series and I would recommend it to those who enjoy a well crafted cozy. I will definitely read the next one when it is published.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book provided by the publisher, Crooked Lane Books, and NetGalley, which I greatly appreciate.
October 21, 2018
I always enjoy cozies that involve cooking or crafting. Perhaps because I'm not extremely crafty and am a little envious of what the characters manage to create from a little yard, some paint, or paper. I also enjoy the small town feel and the different festivals or events that these many small towns create to bring joy and excitement to the town and its residents. Holly Quinn has managed to bring both of these together to this small town in Wisconsin with great success.
Sammy has a heart of gold but is very impulsive and jumps in feet first without looking or thinking. This is a good and a bad quality to have especially if you are going to insist on helping solve a murder (even though you haven't been asked to help!). She ropes her cousin and sister into helping and restarting S.H.E. (their first initials) which was a detective type group from their youth. They definitely retained some of their skills from those days, but Sammy seems to be the one that is really diving into this mystery of who killed Ingrid, the yarn shop owner.
The murder victim, Ingrid, has her own story to tell in this book - from a tragic incident as a young woman, to trying to fit into this small town. She doesn't succeed on that last part very well before she is tragically murdered. The clues are there for the reader to discover the killer, but these clues are not obvious and I was kept guessing until the very end. I was quite surprised to learn who the killer was but it made sense once the whole story was laid out for the reader.
Of course, this would not be a complete story without some sort of love interest for Sammy. And in this case, it is the new police detective, Liam Nash. It is not a smooth relationship for these two. I think a lot of that falls on Sammy and the walls she has around her from her own past. But I think we'll see more going forward for these two.
Overall the book was enjoyable. There are times that the book moved slowly and the words were a bit choppy, but I think this could be a series to keep an eye on as it will flourish.
We give this 3 1/2 paws.
Sammy has a heart of gold but is very impulsive and jumps in feet first without looking or thinking. This is a good and a bad quality to have especially if you are going to insist on helping solve a murder (even though you haven't been asked to help!). She ropes her cousin and sister into helping and restarting S.H.E. (their first initials) which was a detective type group from their youth. They definitely retained some of their skills from those days, but Sammy seems to be the one that is really diving into this mystery of who killed Ingrid, the yarn shop owner.
The murder victim, Ingrid, has her own story to tell in this book - from a tragic incident as a young woman, to trying to fit into this small town. She doesn't succeed on that last part very well before she is tragically murdered. The clues are there for the reader to discover the killer, but these clues are not obvious and I was kept guessing until the very end. I was quite surprised to learn who the killer was but it made sense once the whole story was laid out for the reader.
Of course, this would not be a complete story without some sort of love interest for Sammy. And in this case, it is the new police detective, Liam Nash. It is not a smooth relationship for these two. I think a lot of that falls on Sammy and the walls she has around her from her own past. But I think we'll see more going forward for these two.
Overall the book was enjoyable. There are times that the book moved slowly and the words were a bit choppy, but I think this could be a series to keep an eye on as it will flourish.
We give this 3 1/2 paws.
October 16, 2018
Devastated by the death of her best friend, Kate, Samantha Kane goes home to Heartsford, Wisconsin. She takes over Kate’s beloved craft store, Community Craft, and tries to establish a new life for herself.
Sammy drops by the shop next door, the Yarn Barn, and is shocked to discover the owner Ingrid Wilson murdered with a knitting needle. As a child Sammy, along with her sister and cousin, had a detective group called S.H.E. The three women decide it would a good time to bring back the group and investigate this real life murder.
Sammy’s big problem is that Detective Liam Nash wants nothing to do with S.H.E. In fact, he wants Sammy to mind her own business but that’s not about to happen. Regardless of the danger to herself, she is determined to solve this case.
This is a solid start to a brand new cozy mystery series. It took me a bit of time to warm up to the characters, but I did like the rapport between Sammy, her sister and her cousin. Sammy’s relationship with Liam has potential and I’m looking forward to seeing how this plays out.
The author gave us an intriguing web to untangle. There were a few different ways this storyline could have gone. It was filled with a wide assortment of suspects. Each one had a plausible reason to do in the victim. There were many layers to each possibility and I was surprised at the direction the author took.
I’m looking forward to reading the next book in the series and, once again, meeting up with this interesting cast of characters.
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.
Sammy drops by the shop next door, the Yarn Barn, and is shocked to discover the owner Ingrid Wilson murdered with a knitting needle. As a child Sammy, along with her sister and cousin, had a detective group called S.H.E. The three women decide it would a good time to bring back the group and investigate this real life murder.
Sammy’s big problem is that Detective Liam Nash wants nothing to do with S.H.E. In fact, he wants Sammy to mind her own business but that’s not about to happen. Regardless of the danger to herself, she is determined to solve this case.
This is a solid start to a brand new cozy mystery series. It took me a bit of time to warm up to the characters, but I did like the rapport between Sammy, her sister and her cousin. Sammy’s relationship with Liam has potential and I’m looking forward to seeing how this plays out.
The author gave us an intriguing web to untangle. There were a few different ways this storyline could have gone. It was filled with a wide assortment of suspects. Each one had a plausible reason to do in the victim. There were many layers to each possibility and I was surprised at the direction the author took.
I’m looking forward to reading the next book in the series and, once again, meeting up with this interesting cast of characters.
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.
February 9, 2020
Crafters beware! This book will have you heading to your local hobby store and filling a cart.
When I read the blurb on the back of A CRAFTER KNITS A CLUE, it mentioned the main character, Sammy, had moved back to town to run her deceased friend’s store, Community Craft. So, I was expecting to read the whole she-has-to-get-to-know-everyone book. I was pleasantly surprised to see the character was already three years established in the town.
I read several reviews before I read this book. One thing many had in common was they thought Sammy was a little too “brusque”. I didn’t see that all. I saw her as a caring woman, willing to do whatever had to be done. Very take charge.
As for the whodunit, I found it to be very well plotted. Because the victim was so un-liked, there were plenty of suspects to choose from. Author Holly Quinn did a wonderful job of leading me to wrong turns and down dead-end streets. When the reveal came, I was completely taken by surprise. Brava!
A CRAFTER KNITS A CLUE is an excellent first in a series. Every time I had to set my book down, I was itching to get back to it. I definitely recommend it to fans of cozy mysteries.
When I read the blurb on the back of A CRAFTER KNITS A CLUE, it mentioned the main character, Sammy, had moved back to town to run her deceased friend’s store, Community Craft. So, I was expecting to read the whole she-has-to-get-to-know-everyone book. I was pleasantly surprised to see the character was already three years established in the town.
I read several reviews before I read this book. One thing many had in common was they thought Sammy was a little too “brusque”. I didn’t see that all. I saw her as a caring woman, willing to do whatever had to be done. Very take charge.
As for the whodunit, I found it to be very well plotted. Because the victim was so un-liked, there were plenty of suspects to choose from. Author Holly Quinn did a wonderful job of leading me to wrong turns and down dead-end streets. When the reveal came, I was completely taken by surprise. Brava!
A CRAFTER KNITS A CLUE is an excellent first in a series. Every time I had to set my book down, I was itching to get back to it. I definitely recommend it to fans of cozy mysteries.
August 23, 2018
A Crafter Knits a Clue by Holly Quinn is apparently the first in a new cozy series and I thought that I would like it. However, I found it to be a struggle to read at times.
Samantha/Sammy Kane now owns the Community Craft Store in Heartsford, WI. It was her best friend's store when she died in an accident. It would have closed if Sammy hadn't taken it upon herself to take it over. It sounds like a lovely shop and Heartsford sounds like a perfectly lovely small town that would be fun to visit. However, I never felt a connection to Sammy throughout the story. She was often abrasive with other people especially when she was trying to get information about the recent murder. I also didn't understand her attitude toward Detective Liam Nash. She didn't know him but she decided he didn't know how to do a proper murder investigation.
Ms. Quinn's descriptive writing introduced me to Heartsford and the crafters and I enjoyed getting to know the town and the people who lived there. I liked Elle and Heidi very much and enjoyed the times that they were in the scenes. The plot was smoothly paced with just enough twists to keep me guessing for a short while; but I did come up with an accurate guess as to who the culprit might be. All in all, the conclusion was solid and satisfying. My rating is 3.5 stars.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book from Crooked Lane Books via NetGalley. All of the above opinions are my own.
Samantha/Sammy Kane now owns the Community Craft Store in Heartsford, WI. It was her best friend's store when she died in an accident. It would have closed if Sammy hadn't taken it upon herself to take it over. It sounds like a lovely shop and Heartsford sounds like a perfectly lovely small town that would be fun to visit. However, I never felt a connection to Sammy throughout the story. She was often abrasive with other people especially when she was trying to get information about the recent murder. I also didn't understand her attitude toward Detective Liam Nash. She didn't know him but she decided he didn't know how to do a proper murder investigation.
Ms. Quinn's descriptive writing introduced me to Heartsford and the crafters and I enjoyed getting to know the town and the people who lived there. I liked Elle and Heidi very much and enjoyed the times that they were in the scenes. The plot was smoothly paced with just enough twists to keep me guessing for a short while; but I did come up with an accurate guess as to who the culprit might be. All in all, the conclusion was solid and satisfying. My rating is 3.5 stars.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book from Crooked Lane Books via NetGalley. All of the above opinions are my own.
August 14, 2022
I actually felt sorry for Liam, the detective, in this book. Sammy seemed to behave more like a child than an adult, throwing tantrums one minute and trying to get her way by flirting the next. Except for Carter, the high schooler who works part time in Sammy's shop, I really didn't care about any of the other characters. The mystery kept me reading, though, and I was surprised by the identity of the killer and the motive. I might read the next in the series, to see if it gets any better, but it won't be anytime soon.
August 13, 2019
This was an okay read, but being that one of the main venues in this story is a Craft store, I expected more of a setting where craft people were hanging out and doing crafts or needlework or something and this is not the case.
Hopefully book #2 will be better.
Hopefully book #2 will be better.
October 2, 2018
Originally posted on Creature From the Book Lagoon blog.
"Sammy Kane just moved back to her hometown to run a craft store. But when the owner of a nearby yarn shop is murdered, Sammy will needle little help finding the killer.
When a heartbroken Samantha “Sammy” Kane returns to her hometown of Heartsford, WI, for her best friend Kate’s funeral, she learns that Kate’s much-loved craft store is in danger of perishing with its owner. Confounding all her expectations of the life she would live, Sammy moves back home with her golden retriever and takes over Community Craft. A few doors down Main Street, fellow new arrival Ingrid Wilson has just opened the Yarn Barn, a real “purl” of a shop. But when Sammy strolls over to see if Ingrid could use a little help, she finds Ingrid’s dead body—with a green aluminum knitting needle lodged in her throat.
Detective Liam Nash is thrown for a loop as every single citizen of Heartsford seems to have a theory about Ingrid’s murder. And nearly everyone in town seems to be a suspect. But the last time Sammy did any sleuthing was as a little moppet. And this is not fun and games. Sammy is eager to help the handsome Liam—who seems to be endlessly inventive in finding reasons to talk with her—and when Liam arrests affable woodworker Miles Danbury, Sammy puts everything on the line to help clear Miles.
As the case comes dangerously close to unraveling, Sammy must stitch the clues together. But the killer has other plans—and if Sammy’s not careful, she may wind up in a perilous knot in A Crafter Knits a Clue, the first warm and woolly yarn of Holly Quinn’s new Handcrafted mysteries. "
A Crafter Knits a Clue by Holly Quinn. Book 1 in A Handcrafted Mystery series. Published by Crooked Lane Books, October 2018. I received this Kindle ARC from Netgalley for an honest review.
This was an entertaining cozy mystery that did not waste any time getting to the murder. BAM! Happened right away and we are rolling fast in to what is going on in this small town murder. The whole book had decent pacing. There were a few chapters every now and then that didn’t really progress the mystery and was more just about showing Sammy and her friends and family hanging out. Even though those chapters didn’t progress the murder solving, it did a nice job showing the small town community and didn’t make the story drag.
While this was a very typical cozy mystery, I was so happy to see that the whole I-moved-back-home-because-of-my-horrible-ex-husband troupe wasn’t used! There are so many more reasons for moving to a small town or back home and I am tired of the ex-husband being the excuse. Sammy, instead, comes back home for her friends funeral. Her friend, Kate, ran a craft store and Sammy takes it over after Kate passes away. I really enjoyed that reason for coming back home. I wish more cozy mysteries would think of something different like this when their main character moves to a small town.
The actual mystery was pretty decent and I enjoyed watching it unfold. There are a ton of suspects and it had me stumped up to the very end. Sometimes cozies end up being a little too easy to predict and I was pretty happy that that is not the case with A Crafter Knits a Clue.
My biggest problem with this novel was the characters. First off, there are just too MANY characters. I get that we want to show off all the quirky characters in town, but, I’m sorry… my ADD brain can’t keep up with 10+ side characters! It was just too many!! Also, I’m not a fan of kids and I found Sammy’s sister, Ellie, with her 2 year old baby and new mom attitude annoying. She totally mom’d it up, A LOT! I could have done without the baby all together. I’m sure other people found her and the baby cute, but the sister and her kid just didn’t work for me. The main character Sammy is a very caring and curious person and I found her likeable. However, sometimes she was just way too impulsive and reckless. It became a little frustrating and sometimes I was yelling at her to shut up or stop what she was doing.
I always enjoy cozy mysteries that have a crafty side to them. Community crafts is the heart of this book and I am looking forward to seeing what kind of crafty things show up in the future for this series. I don’t knit, but I thought it was pretty cool how in the back of the book there is a very detailed description of all these different kinds of yarn, as well as 2 knitting patterns for socks! Looked very user friendly and easy to follow.
Over all, A Crafter Knits a Clue was a fun start to a new handcrafted mystery series. While I had a few issues with characters, the murder mystery was entertaining and kept me guessing. It was a very quick read with lots of crafting going on. I look forward to seeing where the series goes from here.
"Sammy Kane just moved back to her hometown to run a craft store. But when the owner of a nearby yarn shop is murdered, Sammy will needle little help finding the killer.
When a heartbroken Samantha “Sammy” Kane returns to her hometown of Heartsford, WI, for her best friend Kate’s funeral, she learns that Kate’s much-loved craft store is in danger of perishing with its owner. Confounding all her expectations of the life she would live, Sammy moves back home with her golden retriever and takes over Community Craft. A few doors down Main Street, fellow new arrival Ingrid Wilson has just opened the Yarn Barn, a real “purl” of a shop. But when Sammy strolls over to see if Ingrid could use a little help, she finds Ingrid’s dead body—with a green aluminum knitting needle lodged in her throat.
Detective Liam Nash is thrown for a loop as every single citizen of Heartsford seems to have a theory about Ingrid’s murder. And nearly everyone in town seems to be a suspect. But the last time Sammy did any sleuthing was as a little moppet. And this is not fun and games. Sammy is eager to help the handsome Liam—who seems to be endlessly inventive in finding reasons to talk with her—and when Liam arrests affable woodworker Miles Danbury, Sammy puts everything on the line to help clear Miles.
As the case comes dangerously close to unraveling, Sammy must stitch the clues together. But the killer has other plans—and if Sammy’s not careful, she may wind up in a perilous knot in A Crafter Knits a Clue, the first warm and woolly yarn of Holly Quinn’s new Handcrafted mysteries. "
A Crafter Knits a Clue by Holly Quinn. Book 1 in A Handcrafted Mystery series. Published by Crooked Lane Books, October 2018. I received this Kindle ARC from Netgalley for an honest review.
This was an entertaining cozy mystery that did not waste any time getting to the murder. BAM! Happened right away and we are rolling fast in to what is going on in this small town murder. The whole book had decent pacing. There were a few chapters every now and then that didn’t really progress the mystery and was more just about showing Sammy and her friends and family hanging out. Even though those chapters didn’t progress the murder solving, it did a nice job showing the small town community and didn’t make the story drag.
While this was a very typical cozy mystery, I was so happy to see that the whole I-moved-back-home-because-of-my-horrible-ex-husband troupe wasn’t used! There are so many more reasons for moving to a small town or back home and I am tired of the ex-husband being the excuse. Sammy, instead, comes back home for her friends funeral. Her friend, Kate, ran a craft store and Sammy takes it over after Kate passes away. I really enjoyed that reason for coming back home. I wish more cozy mysteries would think of something different like this when their main character moves to a small town.
The actual mystery was pretty decent and I enjoyed watching it unfold. There are a ton of suspects and it had me stumped up to the very end. Sometimes cozies end up being a little too easy to predict and I was pretty happy that that is not the case with A Crafter Knits a Clue.
My biggest problem with this novel was the characters. First off, there are just too MANY characters. I get that we want to show off all the quirky characters in town, but, I’m sorry… my ADD brain can’t keep up with 10+ side characters! It was just too many!! Also, I’m not a fan of kids and I found Sammy’s sister, Ellie, with her 2 year old baby and new mom attitude annoying. She totally mom’d it up, A LOT! I could have done without the baby all together. I’m sure other people found her and the baby cute, but the sister and her kid just didn’t work for me. The main character Sammy is a very caring and curious person and I found her likeable. However, sometimes she was just way too impulsive and reckless. It became a little frustrating and sometimes I was yelling at her to shut up or stop what she was doing.
I always enjoy cozy mysteries that have a crafty side to them. Community crafts is the heart of this book and I am looking forward to seeing what kind of crafty things show up in the future for this series. I don’t knit, but I thought it was pretty cool how in the back of the book there is a very detailed description of all these different kinds of yarn, as well as 2 knitting patterns for socks! Looked very user friendly and easy to follow.
Over all, A Crafter Knits a Clue was a fun start to a new handcrafted mystery series. While I had a few issues with characters, the murder mystery was entertaining and kept me guessing. It was a very quick read with lots of crafting going on. I look forward to seeing where the series goes from here.
September 12, 2018
I received a copy from Crooked Lane Books through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Sammy recently moved back to her hometown to take over her late best friend’s craft store, Community Craft, rather than allow it to close down. Just when she’s getting into the groove of running a shop and trying to keep her late bestie’s spirit alive, she makes a grim discovery: the owner of the town’s local yarn shop has been murdered. Sammy is reeling from the discovery and decides to dust off her old amateur sleuthing hat off and get to the bottom of the murder.
I love crafting cozies, so I thought this book would be right up my alley. However, I had a hard time getting into the story and I think that is because Sammy doesn’t have much of a connection with the victim, Ingrid. Because of this, I found it hard to believe that Sammy was willing to put herself at risk multiple times to find out who the killer was. I didn’t really get into the story until around halfway through when her sister and cousin became more involved. I really like how they work as a team and seeing how they play off each other as friends and family as well as fellow amateur sleuths.
While I had a hard time getting into the story, there are things that I liked from the start. For example, I love that Sammy and the people she’s close to are very family oriented. They’re the type of people who are close as family as well as close enough with friends that those friends are like family. Even Sammy’s reason for keeping the Community Craft shop going is in the same bracket. The shop was her best friend’s passion for crafting come to life in a way that brings people together, and Sammy wants to keep it alive as well as the memory of her dear friend.
I love crafting, so I enjoyed seeing various people come together at Sammy’s shop as well as seeing Sammy work on the shop and what’s popular with its customers behind the scenes. I hope to see crafts make a bigger splash at some point as the series continues. It’s always fun to imagine what the characters are making and what their inspiration behind their projects are.
The mystery itself was semi-interesting. I found myself more interested in who Ingrid was and the secrets that were being discovered than I was in the murder mystery. I think that Quinn did a good job revealing bits about Ingrid in a way that made it seem like her life was the real mystery. That really caught my attention and I really enjoyed how she demonstrated that several people were holding their cards very close to their chest. I am looking forward to seeing how the series develops as more installments come out.
Sammy recently moved back to her hometown to take over her late best friend’s craft store, Community Craft, rather than allow it to close down. Just when she’s getting into the groove of running a shop and trying to keep her late bestie’s spirit alive, she makes a grim discovery: the owner of the town’s local yarn shop has been murdered. Sammy is reeling from the discovery and decides to dust off her old amateur sleuthing hat off and get to the bottom of the murder.
I love crafting cozies, so I thought this book would be right up my alley. However, I had a hard time getting into the story and I think that is because Sammy doesn’t have much of a connection with the victim, Ingrid. Because of this, I found it hard to believe that Sammy was willing to put herself at risk multiple times to find out who the killer was. I didn’t really get into the story until around halfway through when her sister and cousin became more involved. I really like how they work as a team and seeing how they play off each other as friends and family as well as fellow amateur sleuths.
While I had a hard time getting into the story, there are things that I liked from the start. For example, I love that Sammy and the people she’s close to are very family oriented. They’re the type of people who are close as family as well as close enough with friends that those friends are like family. Even Sammy’s reason for keeping the Community Craft shop going is in the same bracket. The shop was her best friend’s passion for crafting come to life in a way that brings people together, and Sammy wants to keep it alive as well as the memory of her dear friend.
I love crafting, so I enjoyed seeing various people come together at Sammy’s shop as well as seeing Sammy work on the shop and what’s popular with its customers behind the scenes. I hope to see crafts make a bigger splash at some point as the series continues. It’s always fun to imagine what the characters are making and what their inspiration behind their projects are.
The mystery itself was semi-interesting. I found myself more interested in who Ingrid was and the secrets that were being discovered than I was in the murder mystery. I think that Quinn did a good job revealing bits about Ingrid in a way that made it seem like her life was the real mystery. That really caught my attention and I really enjoyed how she demonstrated that several people were holding their cards very close to their chest. I am looking forward to seeing how the series develops as more installments come out.
October 12, 2018
This was just an average read for me - I had a couple complaints about it that led to it being a three star review.
First, the writer writes like we are 6 years old [and that might be insulting to some six year olds] and need a full picture drawn to help explain what she just wrote. Like we were unable to just read it and understand it and move on. It was very frustrating.
Second, while there was no real "language" issues, there was some minor vulgarity that bothered me some. I am sure that it won't bother most people; I know that I am more sensitive to this than most people but I want it noted for people who are like me so they are prepared for it.
Other than those two things, this was a decent read [a pretty average cozy] - there are a lot of characters and most of them are related and so at some points it becomes confusing as to whom just belongs to whom and and who is not related!!
Didn't know who did it until the reveal and that is always a nice surprise [when you read as many mysteries as I do]. I am not sure I'd read another, but this was a nice distraction on a rainy day.
Thank you to NetGalley and Crooked Lane Books for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
First, the writer writes like we are 6 years old [and that might be insulting to some six year olds] and need a full picture drawn to help explain what she just wrote. Like we were unable to just read it and understand it and move on. It was very frustrating.
Second, while there was no real "language" issues, there was some minor vulgarity that bothered me some. I am sure that it won't bother most people; I know that I am more sensitive to this than most people but I want it noted for people who are like me so they are prepared for it.
Other than those two things, this was a decent read [a pretty average cozy] - there are a lot of characters and most of them are related and so at some points it becomes confusing as to whom just belongs to whom and and who is not related!!
Didn't know who did it until the reveal and that is always a nice surprise [when you read as many mysteries as I do]. I am not sure I'd read another, but this was a nice distraction on a rainy day.
Thank you to NetGalley and Crooked Lane Books for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
March 20, 2022
I really liked this book. I read it over the weekend so it’s a quick read for sure. ( audio books help a lot )
This is definitely not the BEST mystery but it’s pretty good and if you like mystery’s then you’d probably like this one
This is definitely not the BEST mystery but it’s pretty good and if you like mystery’s then you’d probably like this one
June 2, 2018
A Crafter Knits a Clue is the debut of the A Handcrafted Mystery series set in the small town of Heartsford, Wisconsin. Samantha Kane grew up in Heartsford, moved away after high school and is now back and running Community Craft. Community Craft was created by her best friend Kate Allen as a place for the local artists and crafters to display and sell their wares, and for the local crafting clubs to meet. When Kate died unexpectedly, Samantha had returned for her funeral and realizing that the store was going to close permanently quickly decided to move back home and take over the shop. With Kate's younger brother Carter working part time in the store, Sam feels a strong connection to her best friend.
Ingrid Wilson has recently arrived in town and opened the Yarn Barn next door. The newcomer is rubbing quite a few people the wrong way with her incessant demands for help. Ingrid calls to ask Carter to come over and fix something in the store; but tired of her calling Carter away from his responsibilities at the Community Craft, Sammy decides to go herself. Unfortunately for Sammy she finds Ingrid dead on the floor, stabbed by a knitting needle. Not long after Sammy discovers Ingrid's body, Carter's basketball coach who's also Ingrid's nephew, is the victim of a hit and run and she can't help but think that the two incidents are connected.
Sammy teams up with her sister, Ellie and cousin, Heidi and recreates their childhood detective agency SHE. With the help of Heidi's boyfriend Officer Tim and the newly hired Detective Liam Nash, Sammy and her friends track down a killer.
A fast moving plot with just the right touch of hometown feel, likable characters and a hint of romance. A surprising twist at the end will leave readers wanting more.
I received an advanced copy of A Crafter Knits a Clue from NetGalley via Crooked Lane Books. While not required to write a review I am more than happy to offer my honest opinion.
Ingrid Wilson has recently arrived in town and opened the Yarn Barn next door. The newcomer is rubbing quite a few people the wrong way with her incessant demands for help. Ingrid calls to ask Carter to come over and fix something in the store; but tired of her calling Carter away from his responsibilities at the Community Craft, Sammy decides to go herself. Unfortunately for Sammy she finds Ingrid dead on the floor, stabbed by a knitting needle. Not long after Sammy discovers Ingrid's body, Carter's basketball coach who's also Ingrid's nephew, is the victim of a hit and run and she can't help but think that the two incidents are connected.
Sammy teams up with her sister, Ellie and cousin, Heidi and recreates their childhood detective agency SHE. With the help of Heidi's boyfriend Officer Tim and the newly hired Detective Liam Nash, Sammy and her friends track down a killer.
A fast moving plot with just the right touch of hometown feel, likable characters and a hint of romance. A surprising twist at the end will leave readers wanting more.
I received an advanced copy of A Crafter Knits a Clue from NetGalley via Crooked Lane Books. While not required to write a review I am more than happy to offer my honest opinion.
April 23, 2018
This is a really cute, fast paced mystery that has nice little touches of old fashioned, home town charm & whimsy thrown in. The protagonist, Samantha, her sister and cousin re-enact their childhood S.H.E. Club modeled after a Nancy Drew prototype, to attempt to get to the bottom of a local murder. It’s a cute, quick read that can easily be read in one sit down.
August 24, 2018
I had high hopes for this book, but it just didn't happen.
The main character is childish and the story itself left me confused. I didn't get past 68% of the book because I just didn't like it.
I volunteered to read and review an ARC of this book provided by the publisher and NetGalley.
The main character is childish and the story itself left me confused. I didn't get past 68% of the book because I just didn't like it.
I volunteered to read and review an ARC of this book provided by the publisher and NetGalley.
October 9, 2018
First in A Handcrafted Mystery Series, this cozy is an exciting and fascinating read that I enjoyed. The Wisconsin setting sounds beautiful, and those who live here remind me of the family ties, loyalty, and work ethic I’ve encountered in people from small-town Wisconsin. This is the kind of atmosphere that draws people to cozy mysteries and craft groups.
Sammy is the owner of Community Craft Store and has been since her best friend, Kate, died in a freak accident about 3 years ago. The store was Kate’s dream, and she brought the community together through selling locally-made goods and various fundraisers to help people in need. Sammy feels she can never live up to Kate’s talents for inviting people to be their best.
Carter, Kate’s younger brother, is fifteen years younger than Sammy. He is a senior in high school, a basketball star and team captain and helps in the store. He is seeking college scholarships based on his athletic and scholastic talents. He is like a younger brother to Sammy, and they are very close.
When Ingrid, who recently opened a well-stocked yarn shop nearby, calls Carter for help with something, Sammy goes, after checking her emails, while Carter finishes some overhead decorating. Sammy goes to The Yarn Barn and finds Ingrid murdered. Despite how fiber arts crafters love her new shop, very few liked Ingrid. The man the police accuse of the murder is a friend and craftsman to Sammy and she is certain Miles didn’t do it.
Ingrid is a long-lost aunt of Coach, the high school basketball coach. They were just getting to know each other when she died. Days later, Coach is run down by a hit and run driver. Sammy becomes involved with the murder and hit-and-run partly because of Carter and his team and partly because she is convinced of Mile’s innocence. Coach asks Sammy and her friends to help clean out his aunt’s clothing for donation, and the ladies find no clues except a hidden box of cash. Lots of it. As the suspects are narrowed down, the bad guy(s) make plans to keep Sammy from ever asking any more questions.
I like Sammy; she has much more of Kate’s heart that she thinks, as is evidenced through her community concern and trying to clear the name of the friend accused of Ingrid’s murder. She also helps Carter prepare for a fundraiser to help Coach with his growing medical bills. Each of the primary characters are very well defined and 3-dimensional; all are described as suitable to their roles.
This first in a new series cozy mystery drew me in from the start, especially with the murder occurring early in the novel, and it held my attention throughout. I had an ongoing list of who I thought murdered and who attempted murder; the list changed with each plot twist. Sammy’s store sounds like a great place, as I enjoyed the descriptions of various areas of it, including the craft room. All the elements that make a cozy mystery interesting to me are present: an interesting career (the shop), pets (a dog), small-town cozy, a tightly-woven, complex mystery, and characters I would enjoy as neighbors. The ending is satisfactory with some happy surprises. I highly recommend this novel to those who enjoy craft stores, yarn, and very well-written cozy mysteries!
From a grateful heart: I received an e-Arc of this novel from the publisher through NetGalley, and this is my honest review.
Sammy is the owner of Community Craft Store and has been since her best friend, Kate, died in a freak accident about 3 years ago. The store was Kate’s dream, and she brought the community together through selling locally-made goods and various fundraisers to help people in need. Sammy feels she can never live up to Kate’s talents for inviting people to be their best.
Carter, Kate’s younger brother, is fifteen years younger than Sammy. He is a senior in high school, a basketball star and team captain and helps in the store. He is seeking college scholarships based on his athletic and scholastic talents. He is like a younger brother to Sammy, and they are very close.
When Ingrid, who recently opened a well-stocked yarn shop nearby, calls Carter for help with something, Sammy goes, after checking her emails, while Carter finishes some overhead decorating. Sammy goes to The Yarn Barn and finds Ingrid murdered. Despite how fiber arts crafters love her new shop, very few liked Ingrid. The man the police accuse of the murder is a friend and craftsman to Sammy and she is certain Miles didn’t do it.
Ingrid is a long-lost aunt of Coach, the high school basketball coach. They were just getting to know each other when she died. Days later, Coach is run down by a hit and run driver. Sammy becomes involved with the murder and hit-and-run partly because of Carter and his team and partly because she is convinced of Mile’s innocence. Coach asks Sammy and her friends to help clean out his aunt’s clothing for donation, and the ladies find no clues except a hidden box of cash. Lots of it. As the suspects are narrowed down, the bad guy(s) make plans to keep Sammy from ever asking any more questions.
I like Sammy; she has much more of Kate’s heart that she thinks, as is evidenced through her community concern and trying to clear the name of the friend accused of Ingrid’s murder. She also helps Carter prepare for a fundraiser to help Coach with his growing medical bills. Each of the primary characters are very well defined and 3-dimensional; all are described as suitable to their roles.
This first in a new series cozy mystery drew me in from the start, especially with the murder occurring early in the novel, and it held my attention throughout. I had an ongoing list of who I thought murdered and who attempted murder; the list changed with each plot twist. Sammy’s store sounds like a great place, as I enjoyed the descriptions of various areas of it, including the craft room. All the elements that make a cozy mystery interesting to me are present: an interesting career (the shop), pets (a dog), small-town cozy, a tightly-woven, complex mystery, and characters I would enjoy as neighbors. The ending is satisfactory with some happy surprises. I highly recommend this novel to those who enjoy craft stores, yarn, and very well-written cozy mysteries!
From a grateful heart: I received an e-Arc of this novel from the publisher through NetGalley, and this is my honest review.
September 23, 2018
A Crafter Knits a Clue is the debut novel in Holly Quinn’s A Handcrafted Mystery series. I had a hard time getting into the story. The dialogue and narrative seemed choppy in the first part of this book and moved slowly, but the pace picked up about halfway through the book, the choppiness disappeared, and I started to enjoy it and was anxious to find out who the culprit was and how the story would end.
Samantha “Sammy” Kane moved back to her hometown, Heartsford, Wisconsin, three years ago and took over her late best friend, Kate Allen’s, craft store instead of allowing it to close. Community Craft is a store that stocks handmade goods made by locals, where artists give lessons, and local craft groups meet. Sammy has developed a close relationship with Kate’s teenage brother, Carter, since Kate’s unexpected death. She has a golden retriever named Bara who provides her with companionship and comfort. Sammy’s sister, Ellie, and her husband, Randy, have a two-year-old son named Tyler; their parents have moved to Arizona; Sammy’s cousin, Heidi, an ER nurse, is dating Officer Tim Maxwell, who works for the Heartsford Police Department. While in grade school, the girls created S.H.E., their childhood detective agency. Heartsford is preparing for the town’s annual Spring Fling event.
Sammy goes to The Yarn Barn to help the owner, Ingrid Wilson, but instead of lending a hand, she finds Ingrid’s body with an aluminum knitting needle lodged in her throat. The victim hadn’t been back in town very long, but she managed to alienate a lot of people. The town’s new detective, Liam Nash, is assigned to the case. Not long after Ingrid’s murder, Carter’s high school basketball coach who’s Ingrid’s nephew becomes the victim of a hit and run. Sammy can't help but wonder if the two incidents are connected. When the evidence points to Miles Danbury, a talented woodworker, Sammy doesn’t see how that’s possible. After Sammy is attacked, Heidi insists they recreate S.H.E., to try to track down the culprit.
I received an Advance Reader Copy of this book from NetGalley and voluntarily reviewed it.
Samantha “Sammy” Kane moved back to her hometown, Heartsford, Wisconsin, three years ago and took over her late best friend, Kate Allen’s, craft store instead of allowing it to close. Community Craft is a store that stocks handmade goods made by locals, where artists give lessons, and local craft groups meet. Sammy has developed a close relationship with Kate’s teenage brother, Carter, since Kate’s unexpected death. She has a golden retriever named Bara who provides her with companionship and comfort. Sammy’s sister, Ellie, and her husband, Randy, have a two-year-old son named Tyler; their parents have moved to Arizona; Sammy’s cousin, Heidi, an ER nurse, is dating Officer Tim Maxwell, who works for the Heartsford Police Department. While in grade school, the girls created S.H.E., their childhood detective agency. Heartsford is preparing for the town’s annual Spring Fling event.
Sammy goes to The Yarn Barn to help the owner, Ingrid Wilson, but instead of lending a hand, she finds Ingrid’s body with an aluminum knitting needle lodged in her throat. The victim hadn’t been back in town very long, but she managed to alienate a lot of people. The town’s new detective, Liam Nash, is assigned to the case. Not long after Ingrid’s murder, Carter’s high school basketball coach who’s Ingrid’s nephew becomes the victim of a hit and run. Sammy can't help but wonder if the two incidents are connected. When the evidence points to Miles Danbury, a talented woodworker, Sammy doesn’t see how that’s possible. After Sammy is attacked, Heidi insists they recreate S.H.E., to try to track down the culprit.
I received an Advance Reader Copy of this book from NetGalley and voluntarily reviewed it.
July 27, 2018
Samantha “Sammy” Kane moves back to her hometown in Wisconsin to run a craft store. When she goes to help the owner of a yarn shop, Ingrid, Sammy finds her dead with a knitting needle lodged in her throat. After the police are called, Detective Liam Nash walks in, and throws Sammy off her game. She wants to help with the investigation, but Liam wants her safe. Sammy is attracted to him, but doesn’t know how to work with him. Can Sammy find the culprit before she’s next on the killer’s list?
This was a good start to a new cozy mystery series. The character of Sammy was a quirky and likeable protagonist who had all of the great qualities of an amateur sleuth. I loved how her close friends and relatives help her with the investigation, and have her back when she needs assistance. The plot was very twisty in nature, and kept me guessing until the end. The romantic tension between Sammy and Liam was a great reprieve from the murder investigation. The only drawback was the mention of Kate. Since she died prior to the story, I felt there should have been more on her character, and maybe a link between her death and the murder in the book. I was very confused as to why she was mentioned in the story. Maybe there will be more about her in the next installment? I can’t wait. I received an Advanced Reader Copy of this book from NetGalley and am voluntarily reviewing it.
This was a good start to a new cozy mystery series. The character of Sammy was a quirky and likeable protagonist who had all of the great qualities of an amateur sleuth. I loved how her close friends and relatives help her with the investigation, and have her back when she needs assistance. The plot was very twisty in nature, and kept me guessing until the end. The romantic tension between Sammy and Liam was a great reprieve from the murder investigation. The only drawback was the mention of Kate. Since she died prior to the story, I felt there should have been more on her character, and maybe a link between her death and the murder in the book. I was very confused as to why she was mentioned in the story. Maybe there will be more about her in the next installment? I can’t wait. I received an Advanced Reader Copy of this book from NetGalley and am voluntarily reviewing it.
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