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Queen Bees Quilt Shop Mystery #2
A Thread of Darkness
The national bestselling author of the Seaside Knitters mysteries returns to find the Crestwood Quilters on pins and needles when a killer strikes. . .
As owners of the popular bistro The French Quarter, former New York City restauranteurs Picasso and Laurel St. Pierre are the toast of the town of Crestwood, Kansas. Chef Picasso’s culinary creations delight the women of the quilting club, who have embraced him as a friend. But Laurel’s anti-social behavior confuses Kate Simpson—until she spots Mrs. St. Pierre with another man in what appears to be a lover’s spat.
Gossip travels fast in a small town like Crestwood, and rumor has it this isn’t Laurel’s first indiscretion. She also filed a police report accusing Picasso of domestic abuse. And when Laurel’s murdered body is found Picasso is the prime suspect. To prove their friend’s innocence, Kate and the Crestwood Quilters must uncover the secrets of Laurel’s past—a patchwork history wrapped up in Kate’s own teenage years . . .
Praise for Sally Goldenbaum’s Mysteries
“Goldenbaum’s Queen Bee quilters charm and delight. I hope these intriguing women will continue to quilt—and solve crimes!”
—Carolyn Hart
“A perfect cozy mystery.”
—Nancy Pickard
As owners of the popular bistro The French Quarter, former New York City restauranteurs Picasso and Laurel St. Pierre are the toast of the town of Crestwood, Kansas. Chef Picasso’s culinary creations delight the women of the quilting club, who have embraced him as a friend. But Laurel’s anti-social behavior confuses Kate Simpson—until she spots Mrs. St. Pierre with another man in what appears to be a lover’s spat.
Gossip travels fast in a small town like Crestwood, and rumor has it this isn’t Laurel’s first indiscretion. She also filed a police report accusing Picasso of domestic abuse. And when Laurel’s murdered body is found Picasso is the prime suspect. To prove their friend’s innocence, Kate and the Crestwood Quilters must uncover the secrets of Laurel’s past—a patchwork history wrapped up in Kate’s own teenage years . . .
Praise for Sally Goldenbaum’s Mysteries
“Goldenbaum’s Queen Bee quilters charm and delight. I hope these intriguing women will continue to quilt—and solve crimes!”
—Carolyn Hart
“A perfect cozy mystery.”
—Nancy Pickard
167 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 1, 2004
188 people are currently reading
1136 people want to read
About the author
Sally Goldenbaum
38 books909 followersSally Goldenbaum is a philosophy teacher, knitter, editor, and the author of more than two-dozen novels.
Series:
* A Seaside Knitters Mystery
*
Series:
* A Seaside Knitters Mystery
*
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 98 reviews
June 7, 2019
It took a while before it occurs to me that I was reading the 2nd book of the QUEEN BEES QUILT SHOP MYSTERIES. Members of the Quilt group meet weekly at Selma fabric shop locate in Crestwood, Kansas. As a group, they are creating special guilt to hang in Chef Picasso’s restaurant. PO is helping Kate Simpson settle her Mother's affairs. A body is found and the MURDERED turns out to be Laurel St. Pierre who is Picasso's wife. She had a claim of sexual abuse against him. Chief Picasso is the main suspect and Quilt works to clear of the crime. I highly recommend this book and series.
Disclosure: Thanks to Lyrical Underground for a copy through NetGalley. The opinions expressed are my own.
Disclosure: Thanks to Lyrical Underground for a copy through NetGalley. The opinions expressed are my own.
June 10, 2019
A Thread of Darkness by Sally Goldenbaum was another success in my opinion. Ms. Goldenbaum's writing style makes each of the quilting ladies come to life in this small Kansas town.
The plot was well-crafted and smoothly paced with just enough twists to keep me guessing. Although I had a tiny suspicion of who might have been behind the murder, I kept doubting my self with each new twist. Po, Kate, Maggie, Selma, Susan, Phoebe and Eleanor are each distinctive characters who blend well together as they quilt and determine who has brought murder to their small town. I don't quilt but would love to sit with them during one of their quilting sessions just to spend time with all of them. I had to keep turning the pages till the end. I am already looking forward to Ms. Goldenbaum's next book in this series.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book from Lyrical Underground via NetGalley. All of the above opinions are my own.
The plot was well-crafted and smoothly paced with just enough twists to keep me guessing. Although I had a tiny suspicion of who might have been behind the murder, I kept doubting my self with each new twist. Po, Kate, Maggie, Selma, Susan, Phoebe and Eleanor are each distinctive characters who blend well together as they quilt and determine who has brought murder to their small town. I don't quilt but would love to sit with them during one of their quilting sessions just to spend time with all of them. I had to keep turning the pages till the end. I am already looking forward to Ms. Goldenbaum's next book in this series.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book from Lyrical Underground via NetGalley. All of the above opinions are my own.
August 9, 2019
Another awesome book in this series! I've only met these characters twice now, but I feel like they're old friends, especially Po and Kate...and PJ of course! This was an intriguing murder mystery dealing eventually with deep pockets that hid something that happened long ago. I wasn't sure who the killer was this time until Po started getting ideas. I had some thoughts, but they weren't the right guesses. I do love how all these friends work together to help each other and truly care about their other friends and community. It's nice to read a mystery that has just a little more than the mystery and solution--it lets you in on who these people are. Until next time, Crestwood KS!
July 22, 2019
A Thread of Darkness is the second novel in A Queen Bees Quilt Shop Mystery series. A Thread of Darkness is easy to read and progresses at a nice pace. There is a good flow as the story moves from scene to scene. While A Thread of Darkness can be read alone, I recommend reading the series in order. It will help you to learn the characters and keep them straight. Po Paltrow, Kate Simpson, P.J. Flanigan, Maggie Helmers, Eleanor Canterbury, Phoebe Mellon, Max Elliott, and Selma Parker are in this charming cozy mystery. Po is the main protagonist. Po is an active woman in her 60s who is happy that her goddaughter, Kate has returned to Crestwood. Kate is settling into town and working as a substitute teacher. She has discovered a passion for photography and Kate is very talented. Kate is also dating P.J. Flanigan, a local police officer. The Crestwood Quilters are working on a quilt for The French Quarter, the new French restaurant in town that offers a mouthwatering bouillabaisse. The author continues to develop the characters. They are a friendly bunch who reach out to newcomers in town. The characters are relatable and the dialogue realistic. Crestwood is like other small towns with cozy shops and gossip runs faster than butter on a hot stack of pancakes. I like the authors vivid descriptions especially of the quilts. There are many cozy moments with quilting, cooking, coffee drinking, and eating. The mystery had a couple of suspects, good clues and misdirection. I like that there were various incidents after the initial murder. This action made the story more intriguing. However, I knew the identity of the victim, killer and patsy before the murder took place. A Thread of Darkness is a pleasing cozy mystery with an affable French chef, a fishy murder, rampant rumors, an applique quilt, and a group of curious quilters.
May 7, 2024
3 stelle e mezza
Non c'è niente da fare, proprio non riesco a entrare in sintonio con questa serie... La storia non sarebbe male, anche se ho capito chi fosse l'assassino secoli prima delle protagoniste, ma proprio non riesco a farmi piacere del tutto il libro: non so se è colpa dei personaggi o come è scritto, con almeno due protagoniste (e nessuna delle due attira la mia completa attenzione). vabbè, ho solo un altro libro, già acquistato, per finire questa trilogia.
Non c'è niente da fare, proprio non riesco a entrare in sintonio con questa serie... La storia non sarebbe male, anche se ho capito chi fosse l'assassino secoli prima delle protagoniste, ma proprio non riesco a farmi piacere del tutto il libro: non so se è colpa dei personaggi o come è scritto, con almeno due protagoniste (e nessuna delle due attira la mia completa attenzione). vabbè, ho solo un altro libro, già acquistato, per finire questa trilogia.
September 4, 2019
This book started out slow but improved. Laurel and her husband Picasso run a very popular bistro in Crestwood, they are both from New York. Picasso is well loved by the town. Laurel is anti-social and seems to have problems. when she is found dead the quilting ladies are determined to prove that Picasso didn’t do it. Very interesting side light about quilt and safe house.
May 27, 2019
Po, Kate and the quilters are creating a new quilt, enjoying delicious French food at a new restaurant and solving a murder! When the talented Chef Jacques's young, beautiful wife is murdered, suspicion falls on the chef and Po and the rest of the group believe him to be innocent. Now all they have to do is prove it!I
The second book in the series was enjoyable. I love the interaction between the group members and the fact that each are so very different from the other. It makes for interesting "takes" on the mystery and life in general. The mystery was well-paced and had many "red herrings" that kept me guessing.
I'm curious to read the next book and imagine the next quilt!
I received an ARC, from NetGalley, for a fair and honest review of this book.
The second book in the series was enjoyable. I love the interaction between the group members and the fact that each are so very different from the other. It makes for interesting "takes" on the mystery and life in general. The mystery was well-paced and had many "red herrings" that kept me guessing.
I'm curious to read the next book and imagine the next quilt!
I received an ARC, from NetGalley, for a fair and honest review of this book.
July 13, 2019
As I have said many a time I love a mystery that has a crafty theme! "A Thread of Darkness " is the second instalment in the Queen Bees Quilt Shop Mystery series by Sally Goldenbaum. This Is the 2nd book by this author I have read and I enjoyed it more than the first.
As owners of the popular bistro The French Quarter, former New York City restauranteurs Picasso and Laurel St. Pierre are the toast of the town of Crestwood, Kansas. Chef Picasso’s culinary creations delight the women of the quilting club, who have embraced him as a friend. But Laurel’s anti-social behavior confuses Kate Simpson—until she spots Mrs. St. Pierre with another man in what appears to be a lover’s spat.
Gossip travels fast in a small town like Crestwood, and rumor has it this isn’t Laurel’s first indiscretion. She also filed a police report accusing Picasso of domestic abuse. And when Laurel’s murdered body is found Picasso is the prime suspect. To prove their friend’s innocence, Kate and the Crestwood Quilters must uncover the secrets of Laurel’s past—a patchwork history wrapped up in Kate’s own teenage years . . .
The mystery is interesting and I loved the characters which are well developed. The Queen Bees are a mixed group of eight women of different ages and lives who gather together at a local quilt shop to work on quilting projects.
The plot and story were good and seemed to flow at a good pace. There are just enough twists and turns, to keep you guessing and second-guessing on whodunnit.
I requested and received an advance reader copy of this book from the Lyrical Underground and NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
As owners of the popular bistro The French Quarter, former New York City restauranteurs Picasso and Laurel St. Pierre are the toast of the town of Crestwood, Kansas. Chef Picasso’s culinary creations delight the women of the quilting club, who have embraced him as a friend. But Laurel’s anti-social behavior confuses Kate Simpson—until she spots Mrs. St. Pierre with another man in what appears to be a lover’s spat.
Gossip travels fast in a small town like Crestwood, and rumor has it this isn’t Laurel’s first indiscretion. She also filed a police report accusing Picasso of domestic abuse. And when Laurel’s murdered body is found Picasso is the prime suspect. To prove their friend’s innocence, Kate and the Crestwood Quilters must uncover the secrets of Laurel’s past—a patchwork history wrapped up in Kate’s own teenage years . . .
The mystery is interesting and I loved the characters which are well developed. The Queen Bees are a mixed group of eight women of different ages and lives who gather together at a local quilt shop to work on quilting projects.
The plot and story were good and seemed to flow at a good pace. There are just enough twists and turns, to keep you guessing and second-guessing on whodunnit.
I requested and received an advance reader copy of this book from the Lyrical Underground and NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
July 1, 2019
2 Stars
This is the second book in the Queen Bees Quilt Shop mysteries series.
I read book one a month or so ago and it didn’t appeal to me which made me sad. I was looking forward to getting to know the quilting circle goodness and the cozy mystery all tied into one. I didn’t find what I was looking for in that book and this one missed the mark as well. I felt like I was missing the entire cozy mystery experience.
The main character doesn’t stand out here. I didn’t have anyone to grasp ahold of and follow through the story. I spent a good portion of the book thinking Jacques was going to be killed and it ended up being Laurel instead.
This book was just not for me. And that is not usual for my tastes. I am not clear what it is about this that turns me off so much. I think it is the lack of a main character to follow through the book and there are so many threads of different relationships that it almost overpowers the real story of whodunit. Seemed like 10% whodunit and 90% back and forth between characters that didn’t seem to contribute to the true focus of the story.
Wanted to love it and it fell flat for me. But if you love a cozy mystery, check this out and judge for yourself. Don’t take my word for it. Not my speed but it may be yours.
I received this as an ARC (Advanced Reader Copy) in return for an honest review. I thank NetGalley, the publisher and the author for allowing me to read this title.
This is the second book in the Queen Bees Quilt Shop mysteries series.
I read book one a month or so ago and it didn’t appeal to me which made me sad. I was looking forward to getting to know the quilting circle goodness and the cozy mystery all tied into one. I didn’t find what I was looking for in that book and this one missed the mark as well. I felt like I was missing the entire cozy mystery experience.
The main character doesn’t stand out here. I didn’t have anyone to grasp ahold of and follow through the story. I spent a good portion of the book thinking Jacques was going to be killed and it ended up being Laurel instead.
This book was just not for me. And that is not usual for my tastes. I am not clear what it is about this that turns me off so much. I think it is the lack of a main character to follow through the book and there are so many threads of different relationships that it almost overpowers the real story of whodunit. Seemed like 10% whodunit and 90% back and forth between characters that didn’t seem to contribute to the true focus of the story.
Wanted to love it and it fell flat for me. But if you love a cozy mystery, check this out and judge for yourself. Don’t take my word for it. Not my speed but it may be yours.
I received this as an ARC (Advanced Reader Copy) in return for an honest review. I thank NetGalley, the publisher and the author for allowing me to read this title.
June 30, 2019
A Thread of Darkness is the second book in Sally Goldenbaum’s Queen Bees Quilt Shop series. The characters likable and caring, and this steady pace mystery has enough twists and turns to keep readers guessing.
The Crestwood Quilters are working on a quilt to hang in the French restaurant Jacques St. Clair and his wife, Laurel, have opened in Crestwood, Kansas. The restaurant has been well received, Jacques seems to be liked, but Laurel is somewhat anti-social, and it’s rumored she’s been stepping out on her husband. When Laurel is murdered, Jacques becomes a suspect, mainly because of an unfounded police report that Laurel filed accusing him of domestic abuse. The Crestwood Quilters set out to prove that Jacques is innocent and uncover secrets about his wife’s past. Kate has a picture on her phone that shows Laurel being too familiar with a man who isn’t her husband. Even when someone sends them a strong message to stop looking into Laurel’s death, the Crestwood Quilters refuse to comply.
I received an Advance Reader Copy of this book from NetGalley and voluntarily reviewed it.
The Crestwood Quilters are working on a quilt to hang in the French restaurant Jacques St. Clair and his wife, Laurel, have opened in Crestwood, Kansas. The restaurant has been well received, Jacques seems to be liked, but Laurel is somewhat anti-social, and it’s rumored she’s been stepping out on her husband. When Laurel is murdered, Jacques becomes a suspect, mainly because of an unfounded police report that Laurel filed accusing him of domestic abuse. The Crestwood Quilters set out to prove that Jacques is innocent and uncover secrets about his wife’s past. Kate has a picture on her phone that shows Laurel being too familiar with a man who isn’t her husband. Even when someone sends them a strong message to stop looking into Laurel’s death, the Crestwood Quilters refuse to comply.
I received an Advance Reader Copy of this book from NetGalley and voluntarily reviewed it.
February 4, 2020
After reading the first book in this series which I found disappointing, it took me a few months to open the second one. Since this book was on my Kindle, it took longer for me to read. Frankly I prefer printed books, but sometimes the eBook price is irresistible. After my initial start, it was several weeks before I picked my Kindle back up and I had to start the book over. That being said, I found this book less captivating than Ms Goldenbaum's Seaside Knitters books which I love. I don't know if I'm finding it more difficult to picture the town the books are set in or if I haven't found a main character that I can identify with, but I just can't place myself IN the story.
January 1, 2023
Excellent Cozy Mystery
Po(Portia) helped everyone with the treachery and mystery of who killed Laurel. She figured out.
I borrowed this book from Kindle Unlimited. This in no way affects my opinion of this book which I read and reviewed voluntarily.
Po(Portia) helped everyone with the treachery and mystery of who killed Laurel. She figured out.
I borrowed this book from Kindle Unlimited. This in no way affects my opinion of this book which I read and reviewed voluntarily.
January 1, 2024
Another well written mystery.
September 2, 2021
Good story, but a little jumbled. A lot of editing errors that pulled me out of the story. The villain was predictable to anyone who knew the cast of characters from the first book, but the motive was unclear until close to the end of the book. There is a policeman as one of the central characters, but it's a group of quilting friends (especially one of them,) who solves the crime...I think I'm over that concept. I've read three of the four books in the series now. I like them, but they are a little tedious
I first got these books as a part of a give away that my quilt group was doing. I got books 1, 3, and 4, so I had to buy book 2 of the series in a new format. The printing was much smaller in the new format than it was in the original books. My older eyes didn't appreciate that, let me tell you!
All in all, it is a good cozy mystery with a little quilting thrown in, so I would recommend it to anyone looking for a story like that.
I first got these books as a part of a give away that my quilt group was doing. I got books 1, 3, and 4, so I had to buy book 2 of the series in a new format. The printing was much smaller in the new format than it was in the original books. My older eyes didn't appreciate that, let me tell you!
All in all, it is a good cozy mystery with a little quilting thrown in, so I would recommend it to anyone looking for a story like that.
July 4, 2019
This is the 2nd installment in the Queen Bees Quilt Shop Mystery series. The sleuths are a quilting group with an eclectic group of ladies in the town of Crestwood Kansas. The quilting group meets at Selma's shop and they are presently working on a quilt for a new member in town. Jacques St. Pierre and his much younger and beautiful wife Laurel and the owners of The French Quarter restaurant that is popular with all especially the quilting ladies. They have become good friends with Jacques but still have yet to get to know his wife Laurel. Po and Kate begin to think something is amiss with the couple when she appears to be stressed and cool to the quilters who are working on a quilt that will be displayed in the restaurant. Kate is down by the river when she meets a student and they talk about picture taking and she sees Laurel across the river with a man in a passionate embrace. Then P.J. a policeman and love interest for Kate warns Po and Kate that Jacques may not be all he seems as Laurel has filed a domestic violence claim against him. Laurel is found dead and Kate and Po track down her lover and share the info with P.J. and next he is found dead as well. Is Jacques a murderer or was there more to Laurel than meets the eye. A quilt hanging in their house might be the clue to Laurel's past. Also there are certain members of town she has a dislike for with no apparent reason. Why would she ask Jacques to move from New York to Crestwood? Does Laurel has a link to Crestwood and is that why she was murdered? Good solid mystery and the stars are the relationship of these ladies who put their heart into the quilts they do and put all on the line for each other and their friends. I like that the mystery naturally evolves and they are not doing any outrageous antics to find the killer. They plan to give info to the police and only reluctantly get involved to help those they care about. Really enjoy this series and look forward to future installments.
June 24, 2019
I liked this book very much. It is very engaging, and the quilters are an interesting group with a lot of heart.
Jacques St. Clair has opened a great new French restaurant in Crestwood. His beautiful wife, Laurel, has been helping him. However, Laurel seems to frown on several Crestwood residents, including Kate, and Max, the popular lawyer. The Crestwood Quilters are working on a quilt to hang in the bistro. Kate sees one of her students in the park by the river and shows her camera to the student who snaps a few pictures. They have seen a couple embracing on a hill and get a picture. Kate realizes that the woman is Laurel. Laurel has also been flirting with one of the waitors. Then Laurel files a police report that Jacques has committed domestic abuse. The police can't find any signs of it, but the complaint is registered.
When Laurel washes up on the shore of the river, Jacques becomes the prime suspect. The quilters are sure he is innocent. When Kate shows P. J. her picture, he recognizes the man and goes to find him. However, the man is already dead as well. The quilters continue to investigate, and at a open house at the quilt show, someone sprays bleach on the quilt they are making for Jacques with the letters MYOB (mind your own business). This doesn't stop them. They have found out that Laurel grew up in Crestwood under the name Ann Woods. She left suddenly when she was 15, and her parents were both killed in a car accident not too long after. Laurel owned a beautiful quilt made by her mother which she treasured. More information about Laurel gradually is found. After her death, Jacques donates the quilt to an auction for a shelter. As the auction is going on, Po suddenly realizes the quilt is very important, and she needs to buy it.
The ending of the book is very exciting.
Jacques St. Clair has opened a great new French restaurant in Crestwood. His beautiful wife, Laurel, has been helping him. However, Laurel seems to frown on several Crestwood residents, including Kate, and Max, the popular lawyer. The Crestwood Quilters are working on a quilt to hang in the bistro. Kate sees one of her students in the park by the river and shows her camera to the student who snaps a few pictures. They have seen a couple embracing on a hill and get a picture. Kate realizes that the woman is Laurel. Laurel has also been flirting with one of the waitors. Then Laurel files a police report that Jacques has committed domestic abuse. The police can't find any signs of it, but the complaint is registered.
When Laurel washes up on the shore of the river, Jacques becomes the prime suspect. The quilters are sure he is innocent. When Kate shows P. J. her picture, he recognizes the man and goes to find him. However, the man is already dead as well. The quilters continue to investigate, and at a open house at the quilt show, someone sprays bleach on the quilt they are making for Jacques with the letters MYOB (mind your own business). This doesn't stop them. They have found out that Laurel grew up in Crestwood under the name Ann Woods. She left suddenly when she was 15, and her parents were both killed in a car accident not too long after. Laurel owned a beautiful quilt made by her mother which she treasured. More information about Laurel gradually is found. After her death, Jacques donates the quilt to an auction for a shelter. As the auction is going on, Po suddenly realizes the quilt is very important, and she needs to buy it.
The ending of the book is very exciting.
May 17, 2019
The rating for this is low because there are mistakes throughout which is a shame as it spoils the flow and is very annoying. For example as the newly arrived French bistro owner is called Picasso in the book description you would think he would be that in the story, nope, he's Jaques! I hope this will be rectified by the publication date.
A Thread of Darkness is the second book in the Queen Bees Quilt Shop Mysteries and once past the issues was as absorbing as the first. There is a list of characters at the front which I didn't need so much this time but would have been welcomed for the first instalment!
The main characters are all still present and correct, quilting regularly and enjoying all the small town of Crestwood has offer. The added details of the quilting bee is great for a quilter like me but doesn't overload the storyline so non quilters needn't worry. Although the making of a quilt is mentioned throughout it facilitates the weekly meeting which are great opportunity for discussion about a double murder and who might be responsible.
I was able to read an advanced copy of this book thanks to NetGalley and the publishers in exchange for an unbiased review and would hope the errors will be addressed as without them this book is a definite 4, but presently it is unfortunately only a 3.
A Thread of Darkness is the second book in the Queen Bees Quilt Shop Mysteries and once past the issues was as absorbing as the first. There is a list of characters at the front which I didn't need so much this time but would have been welcomed for the first instalment!
The main characters are all still present and correct, quilting regularly and enjoying all the small town of Crestwood has offer. The added details of the quilting bee is great for a quilter like me but doesn't overload the storyline so non quilters needn't worry. Although the making of a quilt is mentioned throughout it facilitates the weekly meeting which are great opportunity for discussion about a double murder and who might be responsible.
I was able to read an advanced copy of this book thanks to NetGalley and the publishers in exchange for an unbiased review and would hope the errors will be addressed as without them this book is a definite 4, but presently it is unfortunately only a 3.
June 25, 2019
A Thread of Darkness by Sally Goldenbaum is the second book in Queen Bees Quilt Shop but can be read as a standalone.
This time ladies, pull their wits together to defend their favorite restaurant owner again murder charges.
Jacques runs the French restaurant together with his lovely wife Laurel, where ladies gather at least once a week for delicious food and round of chat.
When Laurel is observed being too familiar with some man other than her husband, it is obvious that things are not as perfect as they appear, especially when Laurel files police report for domestic abuse.
Not long after Laurel is found dead and suspicion falls on Jacques.
Being certain that he is innocent Po, Kate and the rest of the quilting group are hard at work to prove he is not the culprit.
I like the characters, how different yet compatible they are, and true friends in every sense gathered around their join hobby.
There are mentions of quilting but it doesn't overshadow the story nor is it referred to too much as to put off readers who aren't interested in quilting.
Well told mystery with a steady pace and enough twists and turns to keep readers guessing.
Big thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for advanced copy. All opinions are my own.
This time ladies, pull their wits together to defend their favorite restaurant owner again murder charges.
Jacques runs the French restaurant together with his lovely wife Laurel, where ladies gather at least once a week for delicious food and round of chat.
When Laurel is observed being too familiar with some man other than her husband, it is obvious that things are not as perfect as they appear, especially when Laurel files police report for domestic abuse.
Not long after Laurel is found dead and suspicion falls on Jacques.
Being certain that he is innocent Po, Kate and the rest of the quilting group are hard at work to prove he is not the culprit.
I like the characters, how different yet compatible they are, and true friends in every sense gathered around their join hobby.
There are mentions of quilting but it doesn't overshadow the story nor is it referred to too much as to put off readers who aren't interested in quilting.
Well told mystery with a steady pace and enough twists and turns to keep readers guessing.
Big thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for advanced copy. All opinions are my own.
July 24, 2019
"A Thread Of Darkness" is the 2nd in the "Queen Bee Quilt Shop" mystery series by favorite author Sally Goldenbaum. I have read the first in series and found it very enjoyable and a fun mystery read. I do highly recommend the series for your reading enjoyment. I enjoyed my second visit to Crestwood Kansas and the Crestwood Quilters. Mrs. Goldenbaum brings the small town in Kansas to life and creates vivid charcters that are a joy to read about. The quilts the group creates are fun to read about .
In this 2nd in series our Protagonist Po and the Crestwood Quilters are working on a quilt for The French Quarter, the new French restaurant in town . The French chef falls under suspicion when his wife is murdered. The quilting group is convinced he is innocent and sets out to piece together the mystery and find the real killer.
This was a well crafted story with a pleasing sleuth to the conclusion. I love the charcters and the devoted friendships of the quilting group in this lovely small town. I look forward to returning to the next in series. Thank you to the publisher and to Net Galley for the opportunity. This is a mystery series I highly recommend for all that enjoy crafting and crafting based mysteries.
In this 2nd in series our Protagonist Po and the Crestwood Quilters are working on a quilt for The French Quarter, the new French restaurant in town . The French chef falls under suspicion when his wife is murdered. The quilting group is convinced he is innocent and sets out to piece together the mystery and find the real killer.
This was a well crafted story with a pleasing sleuth to the conclusion. I love the charcters and the devoted friendships of the quilting group in this lovely small town. I look forward to returning to the next in series. Thank you to the publisher and to Net Galley for the opportunity. This is a mystery series I highly recommend for all that enjoy crafting and crafting based mysteries.
October 6, 2019
A Thread of Darkness by Sally Goldenbaum
Book #2: Queen Bees Quilt Shop Mystery Series
Source: NetGalley and Lyrical Underground
Rating: 3/5 stars
**MINI-REVIEW**
The Bottom Line: I had hoped the second book in the Queen Bees Quilt Shop Mystery series would have ironed out some of the issues I had with book one. Unfortunately, the ironing out is only marginal and it has left me wondering about my future with the series. Once again, the cast of characters is extraordinarily large with only a few playing a vital role, the scenes of quilts and quilting (which I greatly enjoy) are few and far between, and the plot is somewhat contrived. To be fair, the plot is less contrived than in the first book and I enjoyed it more, but it still felt just a bit too forced for my overall liking. What’s more, I would have thought more of the women in the quilting group would have played a more visible and active role in this book, but alas, Po is still the most prominent and that limits my ability to connect with and like other characters. At the end of it all, I realized I had to somewhat “force” myself to finish this book and that is never a good thing. For the time being, I think I am done with this series.
Book #2: Queen Bees Quilt Shop Mystery Series
Source: NetGalley and Lyrical Underground
Rating: 3/5 stars
**MINI-REVIEW**
The Bottom Line: I had hoped the second book in the Queen Bees Quilt Shop Mystery series would have ironed out some of the issues I had with book one. Unfortunately, the ironing out is only marginal and it has left me wondering about my future with the series. Once again, the cast of characters is extraordinarily large with only a few playing a vital role, the scenes of quilts and quilting (which I greatly enjoy) are few and far between, and the plot is somewhat contrived. To be fair, the plot is less contrived than in the first book and I enjoyed it more, but it still felt just a bit too forced for my overall liking. What’s more, I would have thought more of the women in the quilting group would have played a more visible and active role in this book, but alas, Po is still the most prominent and that limits my ability to connect with and like other characters. At the end of it all, I realized I had to somewhat “force” myself to finish this book and that is never a good thing. For the time being, I think I am done with this series.
July 21, 2019
I loved the first one, so I was thrilled when I got the chance to read the second one. Once again, Ms. Goldenbaum has delivered!
Part of what I love so much (and there are so many things to love!) is that the main character, Po, is an older woman. So many cozy mysteries follow young women in their 20s-30s. Not that there's anything wrong with that! But I so enjoy seeing through the eyes of a woman who is much more mature. She's seen a lot, lived a lot, and isn't going to get fooled easily!
But the whole cast of quilters is a pretty wonderful bunch and I love all of them.
The mystery itself was exciting as well, it had me wondering up till the very end! I was so sure I knew who was going to get murdered, wrong about that! Then I thought I knew who did it, and I was wrong about that too! The twists and turns made this bIook so good and I probably read this one faster than I'd read any cozy before!
Overall I really enjoyed this book, it was just as great as the first one, and I can't wait to read the third one!
Warnings:
Cozy Mystery standard murder, mentions of spouse abuse and teen pregnancy.
Thank you to NetGalley for a free ecopy in exchange for an honest review!
Part of what I love so much (and there are so many things to love!) is that the main character, Po, is an older woman. So many cozy mysteries follow young women in their 20s-30s. Not that there's anything wrong with that! But I so enjoy seeing through the eyes of a woman who is much more mature. She's seen a lot, lived a lot, and isn't going to get fooled easily!
But the whole cast of quilters is a pretty wonderful bunch and I love all of them.
The mystery itself was exciting as well, it had me wondering up till the very end! I was so sure I knew who was going to get murdered, wrong about that! Then I thought I knew who did it, and I was wrong about that too! The twists and turns made this bIook so good and I probably read this one faster than I'd read any cozy before!
Overall I really enjoyed this book, it was just as great as the first one, and I can't wait to read the third one!
Warnings:
Cozy Mystery standard murder, mentions of spouse abuse and teen pregnancy.
Thank you to NetGalley for a free ecopy in exchange for an honest review!
May 13, 2019
A Thread of Darkness by Sally Goldenbaum is the second installment to the Queen Bees Quilt Shop Mystery series.
This book starts where the first left off, continuing the character development of the group of lovely and relatable small-town Kansas gang from the first novel.
I loved learning more about Po, Kate, PJ, Max, Phoebe, Selma, Susan, Eleanor, Maggie, and Leah. The main characters that continue are Po and Kate, however we get to see more of PJ, Max, and a little more of Maggie.
The murder mystery component with the French chef, Jacques and his wife, Laurel, make for an excellent who-dun-it.
I loved the interweaving of the character histories, interactions, and developing relationships. Those components can make or break a series. These characters are realistic, relatable, and like-able...they are also interesting and worth the investment.
I enjoyed the first book, but I enjoyed the second even more. I can’t wait till the next one comes out.
5/5 stars.
Thank you NetGalley and Kensington for this ARC and in return I am submitting my voluntary and unbiased review.
This book starts where the first left off, continuing the character development of the group of lovely and relatable small-town Kansas gang from the first novel.
I loved learning more about Po, Kate, PJ, Max, Phoebe, Selma, Susan, Eleanor, Maggie, and Leah. The main characters that continue are Po and Kate, however we get to see more of PJ, Max, and a little more of Maggie.
The murder mystery component with the French chef, Jacques and his wife, Laurel, make for an excellent who-dun-it.
I loved the interweaving of the character histories, interactions, and developing relationships. Those components can make or break a series. These characters are realistic, relatable, and like-able...they are also interesting and worth the investment.
I enjoyed the first book, but I enjoyed the second even more. I can’t wait till the next one comes out.
5/5 stars.
Thank you NetGalley and Kensington for this ARC and in return I am submitting my voluntary and unbiased review.
July 19, 2019
"A Thread of Darkness" earns 5/5 Salacious Secrets...Entertaining Fun!
The Quilters have their work "cut out" for them...again, and I totally enjoyed it! Sally Goldenbaum has given us a group of women varying in age, experience, and crafting skill, but they share a passion for quilting and investigating murder. Although not my favorite literary vehicle because a third-person narrative puts readers on the “outside looking in,” however, there are several important characters and it would be hard to choose only one around which to revolve the story. Although Po Paltrow seems to hold everyone together. The story was well paced, clever, and entertaining with vivid descriptions, small town antics, and dialogue that did well to illustrate tone and the various personalities. Quilting, amateur detectives, and lots of fun!
Disclosure: I received an ARC from NetGalley. My review is voluntary with honest insights and comments.
The Quilters have their work "cut out" for them...again, and I totally enjoyed it! Sally Goldenbaum has given us a group of women varying in age, experience, and crafting skill, but they share a passion for quilting and investigating murder. Although not my favorite literary vehicle because a third-person narrative puts readers on the “outside looking in,” however, there are several important characters and it would be hard to choose only one around which to revolve the story. Although Po Paltrow seems to hold everyone together. The story was well paced, clever, and entertaining with vivid descriptions, small town antics, and dialogue that did well to illustrate tone and the various personalities. Quilting, amateur detectives, and lots of fun!
Disclosure: I received an ARC from NetGalley. My review is voluntary with honest insights and comments.
August 9, 2019
Sally Goldenbaum's Seaside Knitter's books are a series I love, and I've always been curious about what else she has written - her author bio refers to dozens of books, but I've never found any others till now. This is the second book in the Queen Bee quilters series, so I'm reading them out of order, but I don't think that matters much.
The setting is a small town in Kansas - but big enough to have a college/university. The characters are all interesting, it's similar to the seaside books in featuring a group of women at different life stages who are drawn together by their shared interest in quilting. In this the main ones are Po(rtia) and Kate, her god-daughter. I guessed the murderer at his first appearance, and the motive fairly early on, but that didn't diminish my enjoyment of the book, the relationships and atmosphere of the setting are what kept my interest.
This was first published as A Murder of Taste in 2004.
The setting is a small town in Kansas - but big enough to have a college/university. The characters are all interesting, it's similar to the seaside books in featuring a group of women at different life stages who are drawn together by their shared interest in quilting. In this the main ones are Po(rtia) and Kate, her god-daughter. I guessed the murderer at his first appearance, and the motive fairly early on, but that didn't diminish my enjoyment of the book, the relationships and atmosphere of the setting are what kept my interest.
This was first published as A Murder of Taste in 2004.
August 24, 2019
I received a copy of this book from Goodreads in exchange for a review.
When a big-city chef and his wife move to the little town of Crestwood, Kansas, and open a new and wildly successful restaurant, no one suspects that the chef’s wife, Laurel St. Pierre, is anyone but who she pretends to be. But surprises are in store to the little town, and not all of them happy ones. When Laurel is found murdered, the prime suspect is her sweet husband, but everyone who knows him says that the Chef couldn’t hurt his wife, whom he adored. What to do?
The women of the Queen Bee Quilting group put their heads together and their sleuthing skills to work to get to the bottom of the mystery. Like a quilt, when the pieces of the puzzle start to fit together, they make a picture no one ever expected.
Well written and well plotted, I enjoyed the characters as well as the cozy home-town feel of the book. I will read more of this series as the loves of the women unfold.
When a big-city chef and his wife move to the little town of Crestwood, Kansas, and open a new and wildly successful restaurant, no one suspects that the chef’s wife, Laurel St. Pierre, is anyone but who she pretends to be. But surprises are in store to the little town, and not all of them happy ones. When Laurel is found murdered, the prime suspect is her sweet husband, but everyone who knows him says that the Chef couldn’t hurt his wife, whom he adored. What to do?
The women of the Queen Bee Quilting group put their heads together and their sleuthing skills to work to get to the bottom of the mystery. Like a quilt, when the pieces of the puzzle start to fit together, they make a picture no one ever expected.
Well written and well plotted, I enjoyed the characters as well as the cozy home-town feel of the book. I will read more of this series as the loves of the women unfold.
February 6, 2021
Since I read all of Sally Goldenbaum's Seaside Knitter books, I notice a distinct pattern of the characters of these books is very similar. Po Paltrow/Nell Endicott Kate/Izzy Eleanor/Birdie, etc. I've even found several editing errors where it should have said the Paltrow's get together with family and friends but said the Endicott's!!! Endicott's always had friends and family get together's on Friday nights. Even though there are so many similarities to the other books, I still enjoy her writing. It's interesting and fast-paced and you can't put them down when you get to the good parts!! I guess when you write 15+ books with all of the same characters, it's hard to put them away. I know I hate it when you come to the end of a series. You have gotten to know the characters like they were YOUR friends and family. That's good writing!!
October 9, 2023
Drastic measures
The Queen Bee Quilters of Crestwood are working on a quilt to celebrate their friend and French chef Jacque’s new restaurant - a design inspired by his wonderful bouillabaisse. While Jacques is friendly and open, his wife Laurel, much younger, seems closed off and cool, with a puzzling animosity toward some of the townspeople, including Kate. When Laurel’s body is found drowned in the river, Jacques is one of the prime suspects - but his friends can’t believe the gentle man who clearly loved his wife would be responsible; there must be some other explanation, and to find it, they decide they need to look into the woman’s past. What they find will cause many to reconsider how they treat others - and reveal a killer with a shameful past, desperate to keep it hidden.
The Queen Bee Quilters of Crestwood are working on a quilt to celebrate their friend and French chef Jacque’s new restaurant - a design inspired by his wonderful bouillabaisse. While Jacques is friendly and open, his wife Laurel, much younger, seems closed off and cool, with a puzzling animosity toward some of the townspeople, including Kate. When Laurel’s body is found drowned in the river, Jacques is one of the prime suspects - but his friends can’t believe the gentle man who clearly loved his wife would be responsible; there must be some other explanation, and to find it, they decide they need to look into the woman’s past. What they find will cause many to reconsider how they treat others - and reveal a killer with a shameful past, desperate to keep it hidden.
March 19, 2024
4.0 Second in this series and Po and her quilting friends are enjoying making a quilt for the owner of a little French Bistro in the town. The owners are former New York City restaurateurs Picasso and Laurel St. Pierre. Laurel is much younger than her husband and acts as hostess but flirts with waiters as well as a wine salesman. Laurel is anti social to the locals and this confuses the group particular Kate Simpson who seems to be of the same age as Laurel. Gossip runs wild in ths small town and Laurel is reported as having indiscretions outside of her marriage but then she reports abuse to the police and this is untrue but polilce then suspect Picasso when Laurel is found murdered but then another disovery the bodyu of the wine salesman. Strange things happening in this little town and people are scared so the quilting group goes into action to find the real murderer.
May 13, 2019
Kindle Copy for Review from NetGalley, Kensington Books and Lyrical Underground.
I received a free, advance copy of this book and this is my unbiased and voluntary review.
Popular bistro married owners are a hit in town but that it does not apply to their own relationship. Seems the wife was seen with another man in a heated dispute.
When she ends up dead, husband is the main suspect since she once accused him of domestic abuse calling the police. Thrown in rumors of her discretions into the mix things do not look well for him.
The quilting club will stitch all the information together to find the killer and keep their favorite bistro from closing. A satisfying cozy read.
I received a free, advance copy of this book and this is my unbiased and voluntary review.
Popular bistro married owners are a hit in town but that it does not apply to their own relationship. Seems the wife was seen with another man in a heated dispute.
When she ends up dead, husband is the main suspect since she once accused him of domestic abuse calling the police. Thrown in rumors of her discretions into the mix things do not look well for him.
The quilting club will stitch all the information together to find the killer and keep their favorite bistro from closing. A satisfying cozy read.
July 2, 2019
I love these characters! Who wouldn’t want to belong to a group like the Crestwood Quilting Group? I can picture what their quilts look like from the descriptions in the story. I have help make quilts, but none like theirs. This story line is great and I just wanted to keep reading. There are some circumstances in this story that is sad for anyone to have to go through. However, that does make the characters who they are. As in real life, there are often unpleasant things we have to deal with. I love hanging out with the good folks of Crestwood and can’t wait to see them again. I received this book from NetGalley, but my opinion is my own.
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