What do you think?
Rate this book
A Handcrafted Mystery #3
A Crafter Quilts a Crime
Perfect for fans of Betty Hechtman and Maggie Sefton, Holly Quinn's third Handcrafted mystery aspires to wrap you in its warmth.
Community Craft proprietor Sammy Kane must piece together a patchwork of clues when a "live" mannequin ends up stone-cold dead.
Snowcapped pines and glittery dusted sidewalks adorn tranquil Heartsford, Wisconsin, while residents cuddle beneath heirloom quilts in front of cozy wood fires. But come the next day, the below-zero temperatures won't keep the locals away from Heartsford's annual Fire & Ice event. To boost customer traffic at Community Craft's one-night-only sale, Samantha "Sammy" Kane persuades a few of the craftspeople who sell their wares at the store to participate in a live mannequin window display contest.
Local quilter Wanda Wadsworth emerges as a favorite to win the contest, as she manages to not move a muscle for an unusual amount of time. Onlookers outside the window try everything to get her to crack--tapping on the glass and making funny faces--but nothing disrupts Wanda's stillness. When the eagle-eyed spectators realize Wanda isn't breathing, a blanket of grief and fear descends upon the wintry town.
Detective Liam Nash can't seem to piece the clues together. Fortunately, Sammy's cousin, Heidi, and her sister, Ellie, are on hand to reconvene their detective team, S.H.E. They set out to solve Wanda's untimely death before the case grows as icy as a sub-zero Wisconsin winter. But they are all too aware that the killer is too close for comfort.
Community Craft proprietor Sammy Kane must piece together a patchwork of clues when a "live" mannequin ends up stone-cold dead.
Snowcapped pines and glittery dusted sidewalks adorn tranquil Heartsford, Wisconsin, while residents cuddle beneath heirloom quilts in front of cozy wood fires. But come the next day, the below-zero temperatures won't keep the locals away from Heartsford's annual Fire & Ice event. To boost customer traffic at Community Craft's one-night-only sale, Samantha "Sammy" Kane persuades a few of the craftspeople who sell their wares at the store to participate in a live mannequin window display contest.
Local quilter Wanda Wadsworth emerges as a favorite to win the contest, as she manages to not move a muscle for an unusual amount of time. Onlookers outside the window try everything to get her to crack--tapping on the glass and making funny faces--but nothing disrupts Wanda's stillness. When the eagle-eyed spectators realize Wanda isn't breathing, a blanket of grief and fear descends upon the wintry town.
Detective Liam Nash can't seem to piece the clues together. Fortunately, Sammy's cousin, Heidi, and her sister, Ellie, are on hand to reconvene their detective team, S.H.E. They set out to solve Wanda's untimely death before the case grows as icy as a sub-zero Wisconsin winter. But they are all too aware that the killer is too close for comfort.
317 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 11, 2020
82 people are currently reading
1908 people want to read
About the author
Holly Quinn
8 books350 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!
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 172 reviews
January 31, 2020
It's winter in Heartsford, Wisconsin, and Sammy Kane is preparing for the annual Fire and Ice event with a live mannequin window display contest at her store, Community Craft. When a member of the quilt group dies during the contest, and her husband goes missing, Sammy, her sister Ellie, and her cousin Heidi work together to find the culprit.
I found this book to be an entertaining and fun read. I enjoyed the author's writing style and the cozy winter setting. The relationship between Sammy, Ellie, and Heidi was heartwarming. They were very loyal to each other, and I liked their interactions. I have mixed feelings about Sammy. She came across as pushy and selfish. Her careless sleuthing and willingness to obstruct justice rubbed me the wrong way. But she did own up to her mistakes in the end, so I will give her character a second chance. Ellie and Heidi were both likable characters and in my opinion, more interesting than Sammy. The murder mystery had plenty of suspects to choose from and I actually guessed the real culprit halfway through the story, but the author provided plenty of red herrings to make me second guess myself.
I definitely recommend this book. It's the perfect winter cozy and will make you want to curl up on your sofa with a blanket and a cup of hot cocoa.
I received an ARC from Crooked Lane Books through NetGalley. The opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
I found this book to be an entertaining and fun read. I enjoyed the author's writing style and the cozy winter setting. The relationship between Sammy, Ellie, and Heidi was heartwarming. They were very loyal to each other, and I liked their interactions. I have mixed feelings about Sammy. She came across as pushy and selfish. Her careless sleuthing and willingness to obstruct justice rubbed me the wrong way. But she did own up to her mistakes in the end, so I will give her character a second chance. Ellie and Heidi were both likable characters and in my opinion, more interesting than Sammy. The murder mystery had plenty of suspects to choose from and I actually guessed the real culprit halfway through the story, but the author provided plenty of red herrings to make me second guess myself.
I definitely recommend this book. It's the perfect winter cozy and will make you want to curl up on your sofa with a blanket and a cup of hot cocoa.
I received an ARC from Crooked Lane Books through NetGalley. The opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
February 14, 2020
So this is my first book my Holly Quinn and I mainly decided to read it because of the cute title. I didn’t know very much going into this book, but I was pleasantly surprised to find that I enjoyed it.
Quinn’s writing is fun and upbeat. It moves at a good pace and is very easy to follow. I think if you’re new to Cozy Mysteries then this is a great series to try.
I also really enjoyed the characters of the story. They all worked well with one another without being too overbearing. I think I might even go back and read the other books in the series so see how it all started. If you like a big sense of community in your Cozies then this one definitely has a lot to love. You’ll be able to find at least one character that you can relate to for sure.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book and look forward to trying more of Holly Quinn’s books in the future.
September 11, 2019
This was my first book for me to read by Holly Quinn. There are 2 books that are prior to "A Crafter Quilts a Crime" in the "Handcrafted Mystery Series", but it's not necessary to read them in order.
This was the first book I have read in the "Handcrafted Mystery Series and was happy that I could easily "get to know" the characters. This is a fast paced read and can certainly be read as a stand alone. The story was well written and held my attention from beginning to end. I'm looking forward to reading more about this close knit group of people.
The mystery kept me reading and I loved the Winter setting. What I found different about this cozy mystery was there wasn't just one amateur sleuth, but three of them! Sammy, Heidi and Ellie are all different in personality and it's easy to find a character to relate to in the book.
It doesn't take long before the murder is presented in the story. It begins with the Fire & Ice event, which is painted beautifully. When the Community Craft store's Christmas display becomes a murder scene, Sammy, Heidi and Ellie (aka S.H.E) go into sleuthing mode!
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for approving me to read this book.
#ACrafterQuiltsACrime #NetGalley
This was the first book I have read in the "Handcrafted Mystery Series and was happy that I could easily "get to know" the characters. This is a fast paced read and can certainly be read as a stand alone. The story was well written and held my attention from beginning to end. I'm looking forward to reading more about this close knit group of people.
The mystery kept me reading and I loved the Winter setting. What I found different about this cozy mystery was there wasn't just one amateur sleuth, but three of them! Sammy, Heidi and Ellie are all different in personality and it's easy to find a character to relate to in the book.
It doesn't take long before the murder is presented in the story. It begins with the Fire & Ice event, which is painted beautifully. When the Community Craft store's Christmas display becomes a murder scene, Sammy, Heidi and Ellie (aka S.H.E) go into sleuthing mode!
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for approving me to read this book.
#ACrafterQuiltsACrime #NetGalley
February 8, 2020
Dollycas’s Thoughts
Welcome to winter in Wisconsin and the fictional town of Heartford where the residents are celebrating with the annual Fire & Ice event. The shops are open late and the evening will conclude with a giant bonfire. Sammy Kane wants her shop Community Craft to really stand out and bring in the customers so she has asked a few of her crafters to take part in a “live” mannequin contest. The front window is all decked out and ready for the crafters to take a starring role.
Wanda Wadsworth is ready to shine, she even brought one of her quilts to feature. She immediately captures the attention of the audience as she remains completely frozen in her pose as people do their darndest to disrupt her performance. When someone suddenly notices Wanda’s lips turning blue people jump into action but it is too late. Then when police try to notify the husband of her passing they find the man is missing.
Detective Liam Nash warns Sammy to stay out of the case but soon she, her cousin, Heidi, and her sister, Ellie, the ladies of S.H.E. are bustling around in the cold and snow trying to find the killer. Things start to heat up as the killer is close on their tail.
_____
This is such a fun series. I have come to think of the main characters as friends and they have their share of strife this time as they don their Nancy Drew hats to try to find who killed their friend. These characters are relatable and believable and continue to evolve over the course of the story. I do like the way the girls work together and that they each have their own strengths. All the characters presented in the story are well crafted but again the four-legged one steals my heart.
The story is very fast-paced with plenty of twists. Sammy’s drive for the truth gets her in trouble making for some very tense moments. There is a nice blend of daily life with the mystery and a real community feel over the whole book. I liked the way the crafting group came together with an idea to remember and honor the friend they had lost. What I really enjoyed most was something people see all over the state of Wisconsin have a new purpose when it comes to solving the mystery.
As a Wisconsin resident, Holly Quinn really brought a real Wisconsin winter to this story. The frigid cold, the blowing, and drifting snow. Waiting for the roads to get plowed noting that for some it can be a long wait. Also showing that snow is not the be-all and end-all. After being cooped up with kids after a snow day, moms will plow through the snow themselves to get to a craft meeting to converse with adults, drink hot chocolate that may include alcohol, and nosh on homemade treats for a few hours before heading back to fray at home ready for anything.
I do love the way this author tells a story. A Crafter Quilts a Crime is quite entertaining and checks all my cozy boxes. I truly can’t for the next book!
Welcome to winter in Wisconsin and the fictional town of Heartford where the residents are celebrating with the annual Fire & Ice event. The shops are open late and the evening will conclude with a giant bonfire. Sammy Kane wants her shop Community Craft to really stand out and bring in the customers so she has asked a few of her crafters to take part in a “live” mannequin contest. The front window is all decked out and ready for the crafters to take a starring role.
Wanda Wadsworth is ready to shine, she even brought one of her quilts to feature. She immediately captures the attention of the audience as she remains completely frozen in her pose as people do their darndest to disrupt her performance. When someone suddenly notices Wanda’s lips turning blue people jump into action but it is too late. Then when police try to notify the husband of her passing they find the man is missing.
Detective Liam Nash warns Sammy to stay out of the case but soon she, her cousin, Heidi, and her sister, Ellie, the ladies of S.H.E. are bustling around in the cold and snow trying to find the killer. Things start to heat up as the killer is close on their tail.
_____
This is such a fun series. I have come to think of the main characters as friends and they have their share of strife this time as they don their Nancy Drew hats to try to find who killed their friend. These characters are relatable and believable and continue to evolve over the course of the story. I do like the way the girls work together and that they each have their own strengths. All the characters presented in the story are well crafted but again the four-legged one steals my heart.
The story is very fast-paced with plenty of twists. Sammy’s drive for the truth gets her in trouble making for some very tense moments. There is a nice blend of daily life with the mystery and a real community feel over the whole book. I liked the way the crafting group came together with an idea to remember and honor the friend they had lost. What I really enjoyed most was something people see all over the state of Wisconsin have a new purpose when it comes to solving the mystery.
As a Wisconsin resident, Holly Quinn really brought a real Wisconsin winter to this story. The frigid cold, the blowing, and drifting snow. Waiting for the roads to get plowed noting that for some it can be a long wait. Also showing that snow is not the be-all and end-all. After being cooped up with kids after a snow day, moms will plow through the snow themselves to get to a craft meeting to converse with adults, drink hot chocolate that may include alcohol, and nosh on homemade treats for a few hours before heading back to fray at home ready for anything.
I do love the way this author tells a story. A Crafter Quilts a Crime is quite entertaining and checks all my cozy boxes. I truly can’t for the next book!
February 12, 2020
Less than half way through the first book in this series, I knew and said it was going to be one of my favorites. Having now finished this third book, I stand by my word.
Author Holly Quinn has created something special with her Handcrafted Mysteries. With a good number of cozy mysteries getting “edgier” (Not a word I think of when I think of cozies), Ms. Quinn has stayed true to the roots of the genre, and I for one am thrilled.
A CRAFTER QUILTS A CLUE was a fast paced read from cover to cover. Feeling as though I was a participant in every scene, I was totally invested in finding out who killed a local woman and why they did it. With skillful plotting and a knack for knocking the reader off track, the author had me duped right up until the reveal.
I’m sure I said this about the second book of this series, but I think A CRAFTER QUILTS A CLUE may be my favorite book in this series so far. It’s been delightful watching the characters grow from book to book, and I feel this story shows them at their best and strongest yet. The feeling of community was palpable and I enjoyed being a part of it.
With A CRAFTER QUILTS A CLUE is the perfect book to treat yourself to a dose of cozy.
Author Holly Quinn has created something special with her Handcrafted Mysteries. With a good number of cozy mysteries getting “edgier” (Not a word I think of when I think of cozies), Ms. Quinn has stayed true to the roots of the genre, and I for one am thrilled.
A CRAFTER QUILTS A CLUE was a fast paced read from cover to cover. Feeling as though I was a participant in every scene, I was totally invested in finding out who killed a local woman and why they did it. With skillful plotting and a knack for knocking the reader off track, the author had me duped right up until the reveal.
I’m sure I said this about the second book of this series, but I think A CRAFTER QUILTS A CLUE may be my favorite book in this series so far. It’s been delightful watching the characters grow from book to book, and I feel this story shows them at their best and strongest yet. The feeling of community was palpable and I enjoyed being a part of it.
With A CRAFTER QUILTS A CLUE is the perfect book to treat yourself to a dose of cozy.
February 7, 2020
A Crafter Quilts a Crime by Holly Quinn is the third A Handcrafted Mystery. Sammy Kane has Community Craft ready for the town’s annual Fire and Ice event. Sammy dreamed up a live mannequin contest that will take place in her front display window. Sammy goes to check on Wanda’s progress and notices her lips are blue. Wanda is dead and her husband is MIA. When Ellie’s husband, Randy becomes a suspect, the S.H.E. team convenes. Sammy, Heidi and Ellie work to stitch together the clues that will reveal Wanda’s killer. A Crafter Quilts a Crime can be read as a standalone for those new to A Handcrafted Mystery series. I like the close, heartwarming relationship between Sammy, Ellie and Heidi. They get along well together and make a formidable team. I admit that I prefer Ellie and Heidi to Sammy. Sammy is nervy and lacks understanding of Liam’s position. She does not understand when the police cannot share information with civilians. Holly Quinn captured the feeling of winter with her word imagery. I could feel the cold tingling my ears and nose from her descriptions. I remember what that bitter cold feels like. I enjoyed the images of Community Craft with its beautiful handmade items inside. I wish my town had such a place where people can learn a craft and sell their handmade wares. The live mannequin contest was a unique event that had an unfortunate end. The investigation progressed slowly for Detective Liam Nash because he had limited clues. He is searching for Wanda’s husband as well as a reason why someone would want to harm Wanda. Sammy feels Liam is moving too slow. When her brother-in-law is brought in for questioning, Sammy quickly calls Ellie and Heidi. The three of them (S.H.E.) will do what it takes to prove Randy is innocent. Sammy’s sleuthing methods could use some finetuning. She is a little reckless and is quick to break the law as well as obstruct justice. I like how quilts tied into the mystery. There were some interesting clues to help readers solve this whodunit. A Crafter Quilts a Crime is a cute cozy mystery that interweaves Sammy’s daily activities with the mystery of Wanda’s death. A Crafter Quilts a Crime has a big bonfire, wintry weather, quilt clues, a spouse gone astray, and the S.H.E. squad.
February 13, 2020
Let's begin with that beautiful cover! Ain't that doggie so sweet? I love stories and covers with animals on them especially dogs!
I enjoyed reading this because of the setting, the characters, and because it had to do with crafting things. It's a small town setting where pretty much everybody knows everybody else's business or thinks they do and the characters were so fun and so "real" just like characters should be.
The mystery was thrilling and enjoyable right up til the end and quite surprised me! While this was the 3rd book in the series, it was easy to dive into and totally could be read as a stand alone.
I was given a free copy via NetGalley for an honest review.
I enjoyed reading this because of the setting, the characters, and because it had to do with crafting things. It's a small town setting where pretty much everybody knows everybody else's business or thinks they do and the characters were so fun and so "real" just like characters should be.
The mystery was thrilling and enjoyable right up til the end and quite surprised me! While this was the 3rd book in the series, it was easy to dive into and totally could be read as a stand alone.
I was given a free copy via NetGalley for an honest review.
August 27, 2019
I found this one to be a fun one to read. This installment in the series has Samantha "Sammy" Kane running her craft store in Wisconsin and enjoying her time with neighbors and family. When a woman in the community is murdered during a festival, the sleuthing team of Sammy, her sister, Ellie, and their cousin, Heidi, is reactivated once again. The three first gave themselves the moniker of S.H.E. (based on their initials), and started looking for crimes to solve when they were children.
Once again, the crime solving females find trouble when they delve in where local law enforcement doesn't believe they belong. They persist in what they believe is right, determined to puzzle out what is going on and find out who is really the killer.
This book, as well as the others in the series, has a plethora of interesting characters in Sammy's friends, relatives, and neighbors. I'm hoping that there will be plenty more installments in Sammy's story.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy.
Once again, the crime solving females find trouble when they delve in where local law enforcement doesn't believe they belong. They persist in what they believe is right, determined to puzzle out what is going on and find out who is really the killer.
This book, as well as the others in the series, has a plethora of interesting characters in Sammy's friends, relatives, and neighbors. I'm hoping that there will be plenty more installments in Sammy's story.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy.
November 12, 2019
It’s winter in Wisconsin and Sammy Kane is rapidly putting on the final touches for her display window of Community Crafts. Sammy has gone all out in preparation for the Fire and Ice festivities with the plan to have live mannequins creating a Christmas scene. All the volunteers are lined up and ready to go, with each presentation lasting 20 minutes. First up, Sammy’s cousin Heide, who did an excellent job by not moving, drawing people to the display as well as inside the store. Next is Wanda, a much-loved citizen and fellow crafter, with her lap quilt. When Heidi comes in to tell Sammy what a great job Wanda was doing, take a peek into the window. Once they realized her lips were turning blue, they sprang into action! Heidi started CPR while Sammy called 911. Unfortunately, Wanda was dead! Although Wanda was considered a health nut, the first thought was a heart attack. When Wanda’s spouse suddenly goes missing, it begins to look a lot more like murder! Sammy, Heidi, and Ellie (S.H.E) go into investigative action. Forming the group during their childhood, they have been fairly successful in solving cases. Involving themselves in a murder investigation aggravates the handsome Detective Nash, as it’s always a challenge to keep the trio safe.
I am really enjoying this series, each one better than the last. With the descriptions throughout the book I can visualize the cold, Wisconsin winter. Sammy has a tenacity that gets her into trouble, which sometimes, like Detective Nash, can drive me crazy. I love that her deep concern and care for others keeps her going to bring a killer to justice. The plot was skillfully thought out keeping the question of did he, or didn’t he in the forefront of my mind. Each character is well developed and likeable, adding their own element to the story. The ending was suspenseful as I really thought I knew who the suspect was, yet once again I was caught off guard. A well-crafted and entertaining cozy! I received a complimentary copy of this book from NetGalley and Crooked Lane Books in exchange for an honest review.
I am really enjoying this series, each one better than the last. With the descriptions throughout the book I can visualize the cold, Wisconsin winter. Sammy has a tenacity that gets her into trouble, which sometimes, like Detective Nash, can drive me crazy. I love that her deep concern and care for others keeps her going to bring a killer to justice. The plot was skillfully thought out keeping the question of did he, or didn’t he in the forefront of my mind. Each character is well developed and likeable, adding their own element to the story. The ending was suspenseful as I really thought I knew who the suspect was, yet once again I was caught off guard. A well-crafted and entertaining cozy! I received a complimentary copy of this book from NetGalley and Crooked Lane Books in exchange for an honest review.
Read
November 6, 2019I'm so exited that #3 in the Handcrafted Mystery series is now in production! The release date is Feb 11, 2020. However, A Crafter Quilts a Crime is up for pre-order at all your favorite retailers now!! YIPPEEE!!!!!!!!! Visit my website for links: www.authorhollyquinn.com
August 17, 2019
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the chance to read this book.
This wasn't my first foray into the world of the Sleuths of SHE (Sammy, Heidi and Ellie respectively) but I think I preferred this story to the last one I read. Sammy is still completely annoying and bonkers about her sleuthing, but I'm starting to just accept that and realize that these girls get away with stuff that many other sleuths don't even risk. It does have a heating up romance too, which doesn't hurt matters. I liked how the theme was woven throughout; we were never really sure who exactly was behind the crimes and why and the obvious answer isn't going to cut it (ha, did you see my puns in that sentence?)
This definitely has a family feel to it, and maybe the family will grow even more after this book. Characters are pairing off and having babies, so there will be even more fun and more opportunity for mystery. I would have liked to see a little more of the community here, and Sammy didn't get to use her quilting circle resource that much, but there's always next book, I suppose.
I feel back in with these characters easily enough, but this can also be read on its own if you like. It follows a usual cozy formula but with a few twists like having multiple sleuths. Four stars!
This wasn't my first foray into the world of the Sleuths of SHE (Sammy, Heidi and Ellie respectively) but I think I preferred this story to the last one I read. Sammy is still completely annoying and bonkers about her sleuthing, but I'm starting to just accept that and realize that these girls get away with stuff that many other sleuths don't even risk. It does have a heating up romance too, which doesn't hurt matters. I liked how the theme was woven throughout; we were never really sure who exactly was behind the crimes and why and the obvious answer isn't going to cut it (ha, did you see my puns in that sentence?)
This definitely has a family feel to it, and maybe the family will grow even more after this book. Characters are pairing off and having babies, so there will be even more fun and more opportunity for mystery. I would have liked to see a little more of the community here, and Sammy didn't get to use her quilting circle resource that much, but there's always next book, I suppose.
I feel back in with these characters easily enough, but this can also be read on its own if you like. It follows a usual cozy formula but with a few twists like having multiple sleuths. Four stars!
March 26, 2020
The Handcrafted Mystery series is a new to me series. This is book three in the series which is set in Wisconsin.
I really enjoyed the winter themed mystery, especially since winter in PA has been mostly nonexistent this year.
The group of sleuths includes 2 sisters and a cousin, together the are known as the S.H.E.'s. Sammy, Heidi and Ellie. Too cute.
What I love about cozy mysteries is the same as what I love about romance, its a form of escape because lets face it, if things happened like they do in books, well that wouldn't say much for our law enforcement and it definitely means our crime rates are lousy in all these small towns.
I had a bit of an issue with Sammy's over-reaching the law here. No cop wouldn't have hauled them in for what they did early on.
I love how they stuck together to find out what really happened to Wanda. There were so many different avenues this could have gone down. Ms. Quinn really kept you guessing until the very end.
Oh and some of the food that Ellie makes will have your mouth watering. Thank goodness there are recipes at the end of the book.
All mysteries aside, I love that there is a touch of romance going on here for 2 of the S.H.E.s as well. I don't want to spoil anything but the ending is just wonderful!
I can't wait to read more of this series.
I really enjoyed the winter themed mystery, especially since winter in PA has been mostly nonexistent this year.
The group of sleuths includes 2 sisters and a cousin, together the are known as the S.H.E.'s. Sammy, Heidi and Ellie. Too cute.
What I love about cozy mysteries is the same as what I love about romance, its a form of escape because lets face it, if things happened like they do in books, well that wouldn't say much for our law enforcement and it definitely means our crime rates are lousy in all these small towns.
I had a bit of an issue with Sammy's over-reaching the law here. No cop wouldn't have hauled them in for what they did early on.
I love how they stuck together to find out what really happened to Wanda. There were so many different avenues this could have gone down. Ms. Quinn really kept you guessing until the very end.
Oh and some of the food that Ellie makes will have your mouth watering. Thank goodness there are recipes at the end of the book.
All mysteries aside, I love that there is a touch of romance going on here for 2 of the S.H.E.s as well. I don't want to spoil anything but the ending is just wonderful!
I can't wait to read more of this series.
February 19, 2020
Crafter Quilts a Crime by Holly Quinn is the 3rd book in A Handcrafted Mystery series, and another fun read. Samantha, Sammy, Kane lives in Heartsford, Wisconsin running Community Craft. As the town gets ready for the one night event called Fire and Ice. The community craft is having a contest for the best live mannequin, in their front window. When one of the contestants doesn't move because she's dead, the mystery begins. Sammy gets together with her sleuthing team S.H.E, Sammy, Heidi Sammy's cousin, and sister Ellie to solve the case. I enjoyed the plot and the quirky characters, in this well written cozy mystery. I highly recommend this book.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
August 12, 2019
The S.H.E.'s are at it again and this time the gals will need to work quickly as it looks like Ellie's husband is the prime suspect! However, the girls find they are in over their heads when their "investigation" leads to kidnapping, murder, money and family discord! The characters are really starting to flesh out and become more fully realized which along with intriguing and entertaining plot lines that overlap in the book to create a multi-dimensional read that leads to hours of entertainment! The excitement level ramped up a notch in this book not only in the mystery aspect, but also in the personal lives of the characters that leaves you wanting more! I can't wait to see what happens in the next book!
November 3, 2019
I really enjoyed that the novel was set in Wisconsin and that the murder mystery began early, quickly bringing me into the plot. The murder motive was interesting and I appreciated that it was very “Wisconsin”. The way quilts were tied into this book was also fascinating. My recommendation is to read the series in order and not begin with this book as it is the third in the series, so that you are familiar with the characters and their history.
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for the ARC. The opinions in this review are honest and my own. #ACrafterQuiltsACrime #mystery #cozymystery
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for the ARC. The opinions in this review are honest and my own. #ACrafterQuiltsACrime #mystery #cozymystery
September 22, 2019
Ah, Wisconsin in the depth of winter with celebrations, lots of snow, biting cold, and. ..murder? Two sisters and their cousin get caught up in investigating the death of a friend and the apparent disappearance of her husband. It becomes a real tangle complete with misdirection, red herrings, and romantic issues with a policeman AND the detective! It's a good story and well worth your time even if I won't give in to the spoiler temptation.
I requested and received a free ebook copy from Crooked Lane Books via NetGalley. Thank you!
I requested and received a free ebook copy from Crooked Lane Books via NetGalley. Thank you!
February 8, 2020
I have read book two (A Crafter Hooks a Killer) in this fabulous cozy mystery series, so I was absolutely delighted to be given the opportunity to read this third book - A Crafter Quilts a Crime. Just like book two, it has a little bit of everything on offer - a quaint setting in a quiet(?!) village, a cute craft shop, a knitting shop, and a bakery selling delicious cakes, cookies and hot chocolate. Perfect.
I loved the story-line -the plot was so engaging, the pacing was perfect and I was totally engrossed from the first few pages. For anyone starting the ‘Handcrafted Mystery’ series from book three, it shouldn't be a problem as plenty of back-story is given where needed and this did not interrupt the flow of the mystery.
The writing style of Holly Quinn is great for me! There is a good combination of descriptive passages to dialogue. The characters are all very interesting with their own personalities and foibles. My favourites are the protagonist, Sammy and the handsome detective, Liam Nash, with his smouldering, chocolate-brown eyes. Sammy herself comes across as fun-loving, effervescent and very down-to-earth and it was marvellous to be back in her hometown of Heartsford, Wisconsin, even though a murder had just taken place and it was freezing cold and snowing.
There is a good mix of general village life to the mystery and I was with Sammy all the way, as well as Heidi, and her sister, Ellie, who have reconvened their detective team, S.H.E. as they tried to figure out the identity of the perpetrator. I remained in the dark until the very exciting and fulfilling ending.
I will be reading book one in the series - A Crafter Knits a Clue - as soon as I get the opportunity.
If cozies are one of your genres of choice, you really must read A Crafter Quilts a Crime.
I received a complimentary copy of this novel from Great Escapes Book Tours, at my request and this review is my own unbiased opinion.
I loved the story-line -the plot was so engaging, the pacing was perfect and I was totally engrossed from the first few pages. For anyone starting the ‘Handcrafted Mystery’ series from book three, it shouldn't be a problem as plenty of back-story is given where needed and this did not interrupt the flow of the mystery.
The writing style of Holly Quinn is great for me! There is a good combination of descriptive passages to dialogue. The characters are all very interesting with their own personalities and foibles. My favourites are the protagonist, Sammy and the handsome detective, Liam Nash, with his smouldering, chocolate-brown eyes. Sammy herself comes across as fun-loving, effervescent and very down-to-earth and it was marvellous to be back in her hometown of Heartsford, Wisconsin, even though a murder had just taken place and it was freezing cold and snowing.
There is a good mix of general village life to the mystery and I was with Sammy all the way, as well as Heidi, and her sister, Ellie, who have reconvened their detective team, S.H.E. as they tried to figure out the identity of the perpetrator. I remained in the dark until the very exciting and fulfilling ending.
I will be reading book one in the series - A Crafter Knits a Clue - as soon as I get the opportunity.
If cozies are one of your genres of choice, you really must read A Crafter Quilts a Crime.
I received a complimentary copy of this novel from Great Escapes Book Tours, at my request and this review is my own unbiased opinion.
August 12, 2019
The S.H.E.'s are at it again and this time the gals will need to work quickly as it looks like Ellie's husband is the prime suspect! However, the girls find they are in over their heads when their "investigation" leads to kidnapping, murder, money and family discord! The characters are really starting to flesh out and become more fully realized which along with intriguing and entertaining plot lines that overlap in the book to create a multi-dimensional read that leads to hours of entertainment! The excitement level ramped up a notch in this book not only in the mystery aspect, but also in the personal lives of the characters that leaves you wanting more! I can't wait to see what happens in the next book!
January 17, 2020
I liked so much about this book. The relationship between the sisters and cousin was heartwarming and their antics were laugh-out-loud funny. The community blends loveable people and crusty curmudgeons. The whodunit plot kept me guessing. But Sammy's lack of impulse control when it came to jumping into dangerous situations rather than calling in law enforcement professionals stretched my willful suspension of disbelief more than a little. Still, I recommend this for lovers of cozy mysteries with sleuths who don't respect their own safety.
I requested and voluntarily read an advanced review copy provided by the publisher via Netgalley and I offer my honest opinion in response.
I requested and voluntarily read an advanced review copy provided by the publisher via Netgalley and I offer my honest opinion in response.
August 25, 2020
LOVED the ending of this book!
January 17, 2020
Best one yet! Like a roller coaster, this story plunges you into a murder right off the bat and then twists and turns you through the suspects. No one would have expected the local yoga instructor to drop dead, and in a display window no less during the Fire and Ice event. Plus there is the S.H.E. girls who are ready to rumble when it looks like Emily's husband is a suspect. Of course Detective Nash repeatedly asks them to step back and let him do his job to the point where their friction is almost as apparent as their attraction. I really enjoy reading about how close the three ladies are and how they have each others' backs no matter what. Last but not least I can't wait to make meatball soup and crustless quiche and am so glad that the author included these recipes. If I was a quilter I am sure that I would enjoy the Patched Flight lap quilt pattern.
January 1, 2021
A Crafter Quilts A Crime is the third book in the A Handcrafted Mystery series.
Samantha “Sammy” Kane has been trying to come up with a store window display for the Fire and Ice festival to draw more customers into the Community Craft Shop. Sammy has decided on “live” mannequins to display the crafts they make. It seems to be working at foot-traffic is picking up. When Wanda goes in for her stint, everyone that comes in is commenting on the excellent job she is doing. Wanda’s time is up and Sammy goes to let her know her time is up but doesn’t get any response. Heidi, who works at the hospital checks of Wanda and tells Sammy that she is dead. The police try to notify her husband, but he is nowhere to be found. Soon, Ellie’s husband Randy becomes a suspect and S.H.E. needs to get into action and find the killer.
One afternoon, Sammy is heading home and happens to see Wanda’s husband driving is Wanda’s car. She gets him to stop and gets into the car to tell him about his wife. The only thing he is concerned about is getting out of town. He takes Sammy to an old barn where he ties her up and puts her in an RV he owns. Now Hiedi and Ellie need to also worry about finding Sammy so that S.H.E. doesn’t end up becoming H.E.
It’s always an enjoyable time visiting with the folks in Heartsford, WI. The stories are always well-written and the residents are well-developed and believable. The book kept me guessing until the end.
Also included with the book is a quilt block pattern and delicious-sounding recipes.
I will be watching for the next book in this cozy series.
Samantha “Sammy” Kane has been trying to come up with a store window display for the Fire and Ice festival to draw more customers into the Community Craft Shop. Sammy has decided on “live” mannequins to display the crafts they make. It seems to be working at foot-traffic is picking up. When Wanda goes in for her stint, everyone that comes in is commenting on the excellent job she is doing. Wanda’s time is up and Sammy goes to let her know her time is up but doesn’t get any response. Heidi, who works at the hospital checks of Wanda and tells Sammy that she is dead. The police try to notify her husband, but he is nowhere to be found. Soon, Ellie’s husband Randy becomes a suspect and S.H.E. needs to get into action and find the killer.
One afternoon, Sammy is heading home and happens to see Wanda’s husband driving is Wanda’s car. She gets him to stop and gets into the car to tell him about his wife. The only thing he is concerned about is getting out of town. He takes Sammy to an old barn where he ties her up and puts her in an RV he owns. Now Hiedi and Ellie need to also worry about finding Sammy so that S.H.E. doesn’t end up becoming H.E.
It’s always an enjoyable time visiting with the folks in Heartsford, WI. The stories are always well-written and the residents are well-developed and believable. The book kept me guessing until the end.
Also included with the book is a quilt block pattern and delicious-sounding recipes.
I will be watching for the next book in this cozy series.
September 28, 2019
Sammy Kane owns and manages Community Craft, a retail store on Main Street in Heartsford, Wisconsin. It's the best shopping night of the year, the Fire and Ice Event, and Sammy has a brilliant idea to attract customers to her shop. She asked the vendors from Community Craft to be live-mannequins inside the storefront display window. The plan goes awry when one of the mannequins looks blue despite the bright lights. Sandy, her sister and cousin, in their childhood formed an investigative club nicknamed S.H.E. They decided to insert themselves into the murder investigation to discover who murdered their quilting friend, Wanda. Detective Nash is not amused when Sammy is kidnapped by the chief suspect and proposes a convoluted theory about a map and clues hidden in a quilt made by Wanda.
This cozy mystery provides a respite from everyday life. The characters are likable and predictable (in a good way) and will entertain you. The food mentioned in the book sounds delicious and Quinn has provided recipes and a quilt pattern. I will absolutely make Ellie's Meatball Soup and Sammy's Crustless Spinach Quiche. Well-written with just enough of a plot twist to keep the story from being like any other cozy mystery. Throw in a little romantic tension, and it's just right.
This cozy mystery provides a respite from everyday life. The characters are likable and predictable (in a good way) and will entertain you. The food mentioned in the book sounds delicious and Quinn has provided recipes and a quilt pattern. I will absolutely make Ellie's Meatball Soup and Sammy's Crustless Spinach Quiche. Well-written with just enough of a plot twist to keep the story from being like any other cozy mystery. Throw in a little romantic tension, and it's just right.
February 11, 2020
It’s winter in Wisconsin and Sammy Kane is rapidly putting on the final touches for her display window of Community Crafts. Sammy has gone all out in preparation for the Fire and Ice festivities with the plan to have live mannequins creating a Christmas scene. All the volunteers are lined up and ready to go, with each presentation lasting 20 minutes. First up, Sammy’s cousin Heide, who did an excellent job by not moving, drawing people to the display as well as inside the store. Next is Wanda, a much-loved citizen and fellow crafter, with her lap quilt. When Heidi comes in to tell Sammy what a great job Wanda was doing, take a peek into the window. Once they realized her lips were turning blue, they sprang into action! Heidi started CPR while Sammy called 911. Unfortunately, Wanda was dead! Although Wanda was considered a health nut, the first thought was a heart attack. When Wanda’s spouse suddenly goes missing, it begins to look a lot more like murder! Sammy, Heidi, and Ellie (S.H.E) go into investigative action. Forming the group during their childhood, they have been fairly successful in solving cases. Involving themselves in a murder investigation aggravates the handsome Detective Nash, as it’s always a challenge to keep the trio safe.
I am really enjoying this series, each one better than the last. With the descriptions throughout the book I can visualize the cold, Wisconsin winter. Sammy has a tenacity that gets her into trouble, which sometimes, like Detective Nash, can drive me crazy. I love that her deep concern and care for others keeps her going to bring a killer to justice. The plot was skillfully thought out keeping the question of did he, or didn’t he in the forefront of my mind. Each character is well developed and likeable, adding their own element to the story. The ending was suspenseful as I really thought I knew who the suspect was, yet once again I was caught off guard. A well-crafted and entertaining cozy! I received a complimentary copy of this book from NetGalley and Crooked Lane Books in exchange for an honest review., the thoughts and opinions are my own. #netgalley #crookelanebooks
I am really enjoying this series, each one better than the last. With the descriptions throughout the book I can visualize the cold, Wisconsin winter. Sammy has a tenacity that gets her into trouble, which sometimes, like Detective Nash, can drive me crazy. I love that her deep concern and care for others keeps her going to bring a killer to justice. The plot was skillfully thought out keeping the question of did he, or didn’t he in the forefront of my mind. Each character is well developed and likeable, adding their own element to the story. The ending was suspenseful as I really thought I knew who the suspect was, yet once again I was caught off guard. A well-crafted and entertaining cozy! I received a complimentary copy of this book from NetGalley and Crooked Lane Books in exchange for an honest review., the thoughts and opinions are my own. #netgalley #crookelanebooks
January 2, 2020
4.5 Stars
This is the third book in the Handcrafted Mystery series by Holly Quinn.
This hit all my sweet spots: crafting and cozy mystery. The winter season is the perfect time to read this since the setting is all cold and snowy. A local quilter is found dead during a Fire and Ice even at Community Craft and when Sammy and her friends investigate they discover quite a underlying path of lies and deceit.
I was hooked from the beginning. Loved the setting and the whole crafting, quilting aspect and pairing that with a mystery is just my cup of sleuthing tea. Just when you think you know who is behind it all, that person either ends up dead or vindicated. The end of this had quite a surprising twist that floored me. That person wasn’t even on my suspect list at all. I really need to dust off my sleuthing abilities since apparently I am beyond rusty or maybe the author is just “that good” at crafting her book. I assume the latter is true.
Just loved this book and look forward to any other books this author writes. I still need to read book one in the series but book two was just as great as this one was. Definitely a series you need to put into your Winter TBR pile, for sure!
If you love a good cozy mystery check this one out. You won’t be disappointed.
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 third book in the Handcrafted Mystery series by Holly Quinn.
This hit all my sweet spots: crafting and cozy mystery. The winter season is the perfect time to read this since the setting is all cold and snowy. A local quilter is found dead during a Fire and Ice even at Community Craft and when Sammy and her friends investigate they discover quite a underlying path of lies and deceit.
I was hooked from the beginning. Loved the setting and the whole crafting, quilting aspect and pairing that with a mystery is just my cup of sleuthing tea. Just when you think you know who is behind it all, that person either ends up dead or vindicated. The end of this had quite a surprising twist that floored me. That person wasn’t even on my suspect list at all. I really need to dust off my sleuthing abilities since apparently I am beyond rusty or maybe the author is just “that good” at crafting her book. I assume the latter is true.
Just loved this book and look forward to any other books this author writes. I still need to read book one in the series but book two was just as great as this one was. Definitely a series you need to put into your Winter TBR pile, for sure!
If you love a good cozy mystery check this one out. You won’t be disappointed.
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.
February 3, 2020
Holly Quinn has done it again, another page turner of a book that leaves you wanting more and more!
It is the new year, the excitement of Christmas is over and people are planning to hunker down and keep warm, but there is one thing that most will come out for and that is the Fire and Ice festival, the shops stay open late, people wander round drinking warm (and in some cases spiked!) drinks and enjoy good food and a bonfire, oh and all the shops try to outdo each other with window displays that are festive and fun! This year Sammy and the team from the Community Craft shop are doing a live mannequin, whereby different craftspeople will spend 20 minutes at a time pretending to be shop mannequins - so not moving is the name of the game! It is all going well until Wanda, a local yoga teacher and quilter, ends up not as a live mannequin but a dead one! When they find out she was poisoned then the S.H.E team spring into action, only to have it back fire rather spectacularly!
Now can Sammy, Heidi and Ellie mend fences, build bridges and find out whodunnit or is this one case they can't crack?
It is the new year, the excitement of Christmas is over and people are planning to hunker down and keep warm, but there is one thing that most will come out for and that is the Fire and Ice festival, the shops stay open late, people wander round drinking warm (and in some cases spiked!) drinks and enjoy good food and a bonfire, oh and all the shops try to outdo each other with window displays that are festive and fun! This year Sammy and the team from the Community Craft shop are doing a live mannequin, whereby different craftspeople will spend 20 minutes at a time pretending to be shop mannequins - so not moving is the name of the game! It is all going well until Wanda, a local yoga teacher and quilter, ends up not as a live mannequin but a dead one! When they find out she was poisoned then the S.H.E team spring into action, only to have it back fire rather spectacularly!
Now can Sammy, Heidi and Ellie mend fences, build bridges and find out whodunnit or is this one case they can't crack?
February 10, 2020
This was an interesting mystery with a good twist that I never figured out. As much as I really like these characters, Sammy while lovable as a puppy, still kind of bothered me with how she managed to twist someone's words into something she was afraid was hurtful or what she saw as untrue. It's not like she was trying to do that for any terrible reason. I think she simply couldn't help it. Her lips moved faster than her brain sometimes, lol. It just seemed to continually get her in trouble with Liam, the detective she had a crush on. Sometimes they'd be joking like they always had, and other times she'd be reading something else into what he told her.
After a wild ride of investigating, getting into hot water with the police and someone that could be a killer, Sammy eventually helped once again bring another killer to justice. And she got a super sweet ending from it too which I loved!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an ARC of this book provided by the publisher via NetGalley, and my opinions are my own.
After a wild ride of investigating, getting into hot water with the police and someone that could be a killer, Sammy eventually helped once again bring another killer to justice. And she got a super sweet ending from it too which I loved!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an ARC of this book provided by the publisher via NetGalley, and my opinions are my own.
August 8, 2019
The S.H.E. Group is at it again in A Crafter Quilts a Crime.
The holidays are over and it's now time for the Fire and Ice Festival. Sammy has a wonderful idea for the festival, but when it turns into a gruesome event, the S.H.E group, which consists of Sammy, Heidi and Ellie, find themselves in hot water with the police department.
Events leave the group struggling to save relationships, loved ones and for one member, her own life.
This is a fast paced story and can certainly be read as a stand alone.
The story was well written and held my attention from beginning to end.
I'm looking forward to reading more about this close knit group of people.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for approving me to read this book.
The holidays are over and it's now time for the Fire and Ice Festival. Sammy has a wonderful idea for the festival, but when it turns into a gruesome event, the S.H.E group, which consists of Sammy, Heidi and Ellie, find themselves in hot water with the police department.
Events leave the group struggling to save relationships, loved ones and for one member, her own life.
This is a fast paced story and can certainly be read as a stand alone.
The story was well written and held my attention from beginning to end.
I'm looking forward to reading more about this close knit group of people.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for approving me to read this book.
December 29, 2019
I enjoyed this read, my mind kept jumping as to whom the guilty party was, and then I would come to another conclusion.
Now this is my first book in this series that I have read, and no I wasn’t lost, and the author did a great job of keeping everything updated without being redundant.
Now I’m a quilter and also have a farm and barn, so right away my interest was piqued, and I loved the barn blocks, and the trail, and a wonderful job was done to make it part of the story. Even to putting the binding on the quilt, it all added to the mystery.
Yes, surprises abound here, and I loved the ending, wow!!
I received this book through Great Escapes Virtual Book Tours. and was not required to give a positive review.
Now this is my first book in this series that I have read, and no I wasn’t lost, and the author did a great job of keeping everything updated without being redundant.
Now I’m a quilter and also have a farm and barn, so right away my interest was piqued, and I loved the barn blocks, and the trail, and a wonderful job was done to make it part of the story. Even to putting the binding on the quilt, it all added to the mystery.
Yes, surprises abound here, and I loved the ending, wow!!
I received this book through Great Escapes Virtual Book Tours. and was not required to give a positive review.
March 23, 2020
Wanda is murdered while participating in a contest of live mannequins at the Community Craft store. Her husband, Marty, goes missing the same day and his brother I law receives a ransom note. The S.H.E. are drawn into this problem and solve it to save Ellie’s husband from charges. Liam and Sammy strained relationship endures as the investigation continues. Marty takes Sammy and she is drawn further into the investigation. Marty was the intended victim due to his underhanded selling of poison seeds to farmers in the community. Thanks to Sammy and Wanda’s quilt the mystery is solved. Great characters and story line.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 172 reviews