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Haunted Craft Fair Mystery #3
Murder Can Haunt Your Handiwork
A Gilded Age ghost helps psychic painter Celeste Cabot catch a killer . .
Rising up against the beautiful backdrop of the Blue Ridge Mountains, the Biltmore Estate is a magnificent mansion in Asheville, North Carolina, built as a summer home for George Washington Vanderbilt II—yes, of those Vanderbilts—during the Gilded Age. Nowadays, it’s the site of an annual craft fair. Unfortunately, it’s also about to become a crime scene . . .
Celeste is hard to miss as she pulls up with her pink and white Shasta trailer and adorable Chihuahua, Van Gogh—Van for short. But before she can show off her artwork at the fair, a tour guide is found strangled by a velvet rope barrier and a valuable painting goes missing. With a rogues’ gallery of sketchy suspects, Celeste welcomes the help of a pair of handsome detectives—and a ghost with a special interest in the case . . .
Includes tips and recipes!
Rising up against the beautiful backdrop of the Blue Ridge Mountains, the Biltmore Estate is a magnificent mansion in Asheville, North Carolina, built as a summer home for George Washington Vanderbilt II—yes, of those Vanderbilts—during the Gilded Age. Nowadays, it’s the site of an annual craft fair. Unfortunately, it’s also about to become a crime scene . . .
Celeste is hard to miss as she pulls up with her pink and white Shasta trailer and adorable Chihuahua, Van Gogh—Van for short. But before she can show off her artwork at the fair, a tour guide is found strangled by a velvet rope barrier and a valuable painting goes missing. With a rogues’ gallery of sketchy suspects, Celeste welcomes the help of a pair of handsome detectives—and a ghost with a special interest in the case . . .
Includes tips and recipes!
256 pages, Paperback
First published December 29, 2020
29 people are currently reading
220 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 57 reviews
June 10, 2021
Murder Can Haunt Your Handiwork by Rose Pressey is the third book in the paranormal cozy Haunted Craft Fair Mysteries series. As with most cozy series each of the books in this series features it’s own mystery that will be fully solved within the book so each can be read as a standalone if choosing to do so. However, there is of course character building that carries over from book to book for those that follow the series from the beginning.
Celeste Cabot is an artist who has bought herself a small travel trailer in which she and her dog spend most of their time traveling from craft fair to craft fair. This allows Celeste the ability to spend her days painting as she sits in her booth outside the trailer at the fairs actually trying to sell her work to customers.One day at a fair however Celeste has a customer return one of her paintings claiming it is haunted and makes mysterious things happen. After investigating her paintings closer Celeste learns that there are hidden images within that she doesn’t purposely paint, weirder still somehow these paintings can summon ghosts.
Celeste has now travelled to Asheville, North Carolina where she has set up her trailer at the latest craft fair being held at a mansion known as the Biltmore Estate that has a beautiful backdrop of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Celeste doesn’t have much time to admire her new view though as again the craft fair has been plagued by murder when a tour guide has been found strangled. Not only has there been another murder but a painting at the fair has gone missing and Celeste has been visited by yet another ghost that is invested in solving the murder and theft.
I have followed the Haunted Craft Fair Mysteries series from the beginning since I am one that loves a good mixed genre read and this one has the touch of paranormal in the cozy setting with a ghost helping to solve the mysteries. Also, I love to find those quirky characters and settings for my cozies and this one has checked all of those boxes with some other fun elements of laughs, cute critters and an interesting mystery with plenty of suspects. This was another great addition to the series and I will look forward to coming back to this series again and again.
I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.com/
Celeste Cabot is an artist who has bought herself a small travel trailer in which she and her dog spend most of their time traveling from craft fair to craft fair. This allows Celeste the ability to spend her days painting as she sits in her booth outside the trailer at the fairs actually trying to sell her work to customers.One day at a fair however Celeste has a customer return one of her paintings claiming it is haunted and makes mysterious things happen. After investigating her paintings closer Celeste learns that there are hidden images within that she doesn’t purposely paint, weirder still somehow these paintings can summon ghosts.
Celeste has now travelled to Asheville, North Carolina where she has set up her trailer at the latest craft fair being held at a mansion known as the Biltmore Estate that has a beautiful backdrop of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Celeste doesn’t have much time to admire her new view though as again the craft fair has been plagued by murder when a tour guide has been found strangled. Not only has there been another murder but a painting at the fair has gone missing and Celeste has been visited by yet another ghost that is invested in solving the murder and theft.
I have followed the Haunted Craft Fair Mysteries series from the beginning since I am one that loves a good mixed genre read and this one has the touch of paranormal in the cozy setting with a ghost helping to solve the mysteries. Also, I love to find those quirky characters and settings for my cozies and this one has checked all of those boxes with some other fun elements of laughs, cute critters and an interesting mystery with plenty of suspects. This was another great addition to the series and I will look forward to coming back to this series again and again.
I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.com/
July 24, 2021
Light, paranormal (ghost) cozy mystery. I like the nifty way protagonist Celeste Cabot paints Murder clues into her paintings. The setting of the Biltmore Mansion in North Carolina was great. Vincent Van Gogh, Celeste’s chihuahua is as cute as can be! The murder mystery is fairly easy to guess, however, the story is an interesting way to relax for a few hours.
January 2, 2021
I don’t enjoy giving a bad review for a series or an author. In this case, even more so than usual but… Rose Pressey is a good writer, I have never doubted this, but there are certain issues in cozy books, really any fiction book, that I find difficult to get past or enjoy. Unfortunately, Murder Can Haunt Your Handiwork has them all. The paranormal aspects of this series started as creative and original. I was never certain it was sustainable due to how hard it would be to change the central theme. The main character, Celeste, isn’t exactly a model heroine, and it’s hard to like her. But I wanted to give the series the benefit of the doubt. I am sad to say that I am disappointed.
I know it is hard to develop a new plot when dealing with paranormal subjects of this nature. Painting a portrait and having the ghost appear and start talking to you, and keep the story fresh and exciting would be no easy feat. However, I hadn’t counted on this series becoming so formulaic. It’s as if all the author is doing is changing the ghost’s name, maybe the sex as well, and the location. Other than this, it’s the same exact story over and over. But at least with the first two books, all the questions brought up were answered by the end, and the reader could smile and not feel as if they wasted their time. I can’t say that with this third installment. Not only did we never find out why the ghost appeared other than he needed to, but we also didn’t find out how he died or anything else about his background. In the end, we were left with more questions than answers. I am also not a fan of love triangles. I understand they have a place in a story, but they are usually resolved by the second book. Unfortunately, it doesn’t look like this will happen even in the fourth book unless something drastic occurs.
The killer was predictable and easy to recognize. The motive just as easy to figure out, and most of the suspects, there weren’t that many to pick from, really weren’t viable. Only one suspect honestly had the opportunity to commit the crime if the evidence presented was followed to its logical conclusion. Not to mention that there truly was no police investigation worth noting. The ghost was somewhat entertaining as he followed the main character around and learned about all the innovations that hadn’t been around when he was alive, such as cell phones. This installment seemed to miss most of the paranormal aspects that made it enjoyable in the beginning. I am sorry to say that I did not enjoy Murder Can Haunt Your Handiwork; I found it tedious, the characters dull and predictable, and the plot tired. All of this aside, I still have hope that the author will surprise me with this series and give me something to smile about again.
I know it is hard to develop a new plot when dealing with paranormal subjects of this nature. Painting a portrait and having the ghost appear and start talking to you, and keep the story fresh and exciting would be no easy feat. However, I hadn’t counted on this series becoming so formulaic. It’s as if all the author is doing is changing the ghost’s name, maybe the sex as well, and the location. Other than this, it’s the same exact story over and over. But at least with the first two books, all the questions brought up were answered by the end, and the reader could smile and not feel as if they wasted their time. I can’t say that with this third installment. Not only did we never find out why the ghost appeared other than he needed to, but we also didn’t find out how he died or anything else about his background. In the end, we were left with more questions than answers. I am also not a fan of love triangles. I understand they have a place in a story, but they are usually resolved by the second book. Unfortunately, it doesn’t look like this will happen even in the fourth book unless something drastic occurs.
The killer was predictable and easy to recognize. The motive just as easy to figure out, and most of the suspects, there weren’t that many to pick from, really weren’t viable. Only one suspect honestly had the opportunity to commit the crime if the evidence presented was followed to its logical conclusion. Not to mention that there truly was no police investigation worth noting. The ghost was somewhat entertaining as he followed the main character around and learned about all the innovations that hadn’t been around when he was alive, such as cell phones. This installment seemed to miss most of the paranormal aspects that made it enjoyable in the beginning. I am sorry to say that I did not enjoy Murder Can Haunt Your Handiwork; I found it tedious, the characters dull and predictable, and the plot tired. All of this aside, I still have hope that the author will surprise me with this series and give me something to smile about again.
December 28, 2020
This is the third book in a series by Rose Pressey about artist Celeste Cabot who has special physic powers and travels to craft fairs to promote her work. In this instalment, she goes to Asheville, North Carolina, the venue being a magnificent mansion. Arriving with her pink and white trailer and Chihuahua, Van Gogh (Van for short) she decides to take a tour through the mansion and is shocked when one of the tour guides is found dead, having been strangled with a rope barrier.
I thoroughly enjoyed Murder Can Haunt Your Handiwork and found it very absorbing. Although I haven't yet read the other two books from Rose Pressey's Haunted Craft Fair Mystery series this did not tarnish my appreciation for Murder Can Haunt Your Handiwork as it was easy to read. I thought protagonist Celeste was a great character as she was personable, smart and independent, although a little prone to impulsiveness.
The mystery itself included enough twists and variety to keep me guessing and turning the pages. A good bunch of people surrounded Celeste, and I especially liked her hoot of a Granny. This is a great, very high quality, fun read, and I intend to catch up with the other books in this pleasurable and amusing series. I can’t wait to see what’s next for Celeste. Very highly recommended.
I received a complimentary copy of this novel at my request from Kensington Books via NetGalley. This review is my own unbiased opinion.
I thoroughly enjoyed Murder Can Haunt Your Handiwork and found it very absorbing. Although I haven't yet read the other two books from Rose Pressey's Haunted Craft Fair Mystery series this did not tarnish my appreciation for Murder Can Haunt Your Handiwork as it was easy to read. I thought protagonist Celeste was a great character as she was personable, smart and independent, although a little prone to impulsiveness.
The mystery itself included enough twists and variety to keep me guessing and turning the pages. A good bunch of people surrounded Celeste, and I especially liked her hoot of a Granny. This is a great, very high quality, fun read, and I intend to catch up with the other books in this pleasurable and amusing series. I can’t wait to see what’s next for Celeste. Very highly recommended.
I received a complimentary copy of this novel at my request from Kensington Books via NetGalley. This review is my own unbiased opinion.
February 17, 2021
Murder Can Haunt Your Handiwork by Rose Pressey an amusing cozy mystery. Celeste Cabot is on the Biltmore Estate in Asheville, North Carolina for the Fifth Annual Biltmore Estate Craft Fair. She was touring the Biltmore Mansion with her family until her father and brothers got them kicked out. Celeste realizes she has lost her keys and returns to look for them. Instead of her keys, Celeste finds a strangled female employee. Celeste returns to her pink-and-white trailer where she is compelled to paint a man from a time long past. When the ghost of the man in the painting appears, Celeste knows that she must get answers regarding the murder. Murder Can Haunt Your Handiwork is the 3rd A Haunted Craft Fair Mystery. Everything a new reader needs to know is included. I thought Murder Can Haunt Your Handiwork was easy to read thanks to Rose Pressey’s engaging writing style. Celeste Cabot is a quirky main character who makes her living by selling her paintings at craft fairs. She has a cute pink truck which pulls her pink-and-white vintage trailer. Celeste has an adorable Chihuahua named Van (after Van Gogh because of his floppy ear). Celeste’s family is in Asheville with her along with her best friend, Sammi and her two detective love interests, Caleb Ward and Pierce Meyer. I do not know how Celeste puts up with her family. The father and brothers would drive me crazy within five minutes (they are always getting into or causing trouble). Celeste’s grandmother is a sweetie. I liked the ghost, Mr. Vanderbilt. He made some funny remarks. I would have liked to know more about him and the reason for his appearance. The mystery was straightforward. There was a small suspect pool and pointed clues. Celeste follows suspects, asks questions, and eavesdrops on conversations. She is told repeatedly to stay out of the investigation by Caleb and Pierce (she ignores them both). I found Murder Can Haunt Your Handiwork very similar to the first two books (craft fair, murder, ghost, she clumsily investigates, her family causes chaos). I was left with unanswered questions at the end of the book especially regarding the ghost. The whodunit was simple, and it was no mystery as the identity of the killer. The love triangle between Celeste, Caleb, and Pierce continues. I had hoped the author would have resolved it by now. There is also a repetition of information. We get it the first time. I found this A Craft Fair Mystery to be lacking (as you can tell). It could have used a good rewrite. Murder Can Haunt Your Handiwork is a droll cozy mystery with a mysterious manifestation, an executed employee, spooky paintings, a frenzied family, and a prying painter.
January 3, 2021
Another fun read in this series. I enjoyed reading about our quirky protagonist and her little chihuahua. The mystery is well crafted with plenty of twists and turns. The story has just the right amount of humor to drama mixture and paranormal to realism. I look forward to reading the next book in the series.
All thoughts and opinions are my own, and in no way have I been influenced by anyone.
All thoughts and opinions are my own, and in no way have I been influenced by anyone.
January 17, 2021
MURDER CAN HAUNT YOUR HANDIWORK by Rose Pressey
The Third Haunted Craft Fair Mystery
Leave it to Celeste's wacky family to get them thrown out of the Biltmore Estate. Although they don't mean any harm, her brothers and father can't help but bring chaos. Fortunately, Celeste is able to remain on the property to sell her paintings during the estate's craft fair. When she returns to the manor house to search for her keys, lost during her family's visit, she finds, not only her keys, but a dead body! With her paintings as clues and a ghost from the estate to help, Celeste doggedly investigates the murder. But will her desire to find the murderer be the death of her?
MURDER CAN HAUNT YOUR HANDIWORK is a cute mystery. Celeste Cabot has a cute retro trailer, in pink, and a cute Chihuahua named Van Gogh. (He is a sweet tempered Chihuahua too, not one of the yappy demons who would sooner nip than look at you.) Her truck is even pink, increasing the cuteness level. There is some danger and there are some unpleasant characters, but the cute factor far outweighs any drama.
My favorite parts of the story include Celeste's family. They had me laughing out loud at their antics. They may wreak havoc wherever they go, but their love and loyalty to each other also shines through. I also really liked the ghost, Mr. Vanderbilt. I loved how he helped Celeste investigate and enjoyed his comments about her suitors. I like both Pierce and Caleb and the rapport they have with each other, but I am not a fan of love triangles. I hope this one resolves quickly.
MURDER CAN HAUNT YOUR HANDIWORK is a light-hearted fun mystery. Plenty of laughs with a friendly paranormal twist make it a quick enjoyable read.
FTC Disclosure – The publisher sent me a digital ARC provided through NetGalley, in the hopes I would review it.
The Third Haunted Craft Fair Mystery
Leave it to Celeste's wacky family to get them thrown out of the Biltmore Estate. Although they don't mean any harm, her brothers and father can't help but bring chaos. Fortunately, Celeste is able to remain on the property to sell her paintings during the estate's craft fair. When she returns to the manor house to search for her keys, lost during her family's visit, she finds, not only her keys, but a dead body! With her paintings as clues and a ghost from the estate to help, Celeste doggedly investigates the murder. But will her desire to find the murderer be the death of her?
MURDER CAN HAUNT YOUR HANDIWORK is a cute mystery. Celeste Cabot has a cute retro trailer, in pink, and a cute Chihuahua named Van Gogh. (He is a sweet tempered Chihuahua too, not one of the yappy demons who would sooner nip than look at you.) Her truck is even pink, increasing the cuteness level. There is some danger and there are some unpleasant characters, but the cute factor far outweighs any drama.
My favorite parts of the story include Celeste's family. They had me laughing out loud at their antics. They may wreak havoc wherever they go, but their love and loyalty to each other also shines through. I also really liked the ghost, Mr. Vanderbilt. I loved how he helped Celeste investigate and enjoyed his comments about her suitors. I like both Pierce and Caleb and the rapport they have with each other, but I am not a fan of love triangles. I hope this one resolves quickly.
MURDER CAN HAUNT YOUR HANDIWORK is a light-hearted fun mystery. Plenty of laughs with a friendly paranormal twist make it a quick enjoyable read.
FTC Disclosure – The publisher sent me a digital ARC provided through NetGalley, in the hopes I would review it.
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September 7, 2020I had a fun time reading Murder Can Haunt Your Handiwork!
Celeste is an artist with a special talent, she has the ability to paint a picture that usually holds clues as well as releases a ghost.
Celeste attends craft fairs with her pooch pal Van, in her adorable Shasta camper.
The craft fair in this book is at the Biltmore Mansion, and stumbling upon a dead body sets the scene for a fun, laugh out loud story.
I absolutely loved the ghost in this story, I found him to be charming and his personality was well played. Her family also played a bigger role in this book, and I laughed at the scenes with her Grammy.
This is a fun series, with great characters that bring the story to life. This is a series that will appeal to all types of cozy mystery readers.
#netgalley #murdercanhauntyourhandiwork
Celeste is an artist with a special talent, she has the ability to paint a picture that usually holds clues as well as releases a ghost.
Celeste attends craft fairs with her pooch pal Van, in her adorable Shasta camper.
The craft fair in this book is at the Biltmore Mansion, and stumbling upon a dead body sets the scene for a fun, laugh out loud story.
I absolutely loved the ghost in this story, I found him to be charming and his personality was well played. Her family also played a bigger role in this book, and I laughed at the scenes with her Grammy.
This is a fun series, with great characters that bring the story to life. This is a series that will appeal to all types of cozy mystery readers.
#netgalley #murdercanhauntyourhandiwork
November 22, 2020
"Murder Can Haunt Your Handiwork" the 3rd instalment in the "Haunted Craft Fair" Mystery series by Rose Pressey. I am a huge fan of Rose Pressey and her newest series. It can be read as a standalone but I think it should be read in order.
The protagonist Celeste is a likable, fun main character, with quirky supporting characters her family, her BFF Saddie and her faithful companion Van the Chihuahua.
The mystery is interesting and well plotted, and had plenty of twists to keep you engrossed till the end. The love triangle sounds like it might be coming to an end in the next book which would be nice.
I recommend this book to all my cozy lover friends.
I requested and received an advance reader copy of this book from Kensington Books and Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
The protagonist Celeste is a likable, fun main character, with quirky supporting characters her family, her BFF Saddie and her faithful companion Van the Chihuahua.
The mystery is interesting and well plotted, and had plenty of twists to keep you engrossed till the end. The love triangle sounds like it might be coming to an end in the next book which would be nice.
I recommend this book to all my cozy lover friends.
I requested and received an advance reader copy of this book from Kensington Books and Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
December 22, 2020
This is the 4th release in the cozy series "Haunted Craft Fair Mystery" by cozy author Rose Pressey. I love this delightful series and thank the publisher and Net Galley for the opportunity. My review opinions are my own.
Our favorite psychic painter Celeste has arrived at the prestigious Biltmore estate to sell her art at a well known craft fair. When a tour guide for the estate is murdered Celeste joins up with a helpful ghost and the police to find the rightful suspect.
I love Celeste and her psychic ability. She is a smart savvy independent protagnist that is a talented artist. This is a fun paranormal series. The supporting charcters are likable and the sleuth is always enjoyable and well matched to the series. I look forward to the next in series.
Our favorite psychic painter Celeste has arrived at the prestigious Biltmore estate to sell her art at a well known craft fair. When a tour guide for the estate is murdered Celeste joins up with a helpful ghost and the police to find the rightful suspect.
I love Celeste and her psychic ability. She is a smart savvy independent protagnist that is a talented artist. This is a fun paranormal series. The supporting charcters are likable and the sleuth is always enjoyable and well matched to the series. I look forward to the next in series.
February 19, 2021
3.5 stars
This is the third book in the Haunted Craft Fair mystery series by Rose Pressey.
I enjoyed this book but wasn’t quite sure about the whole backstory relating to her painting haunted paintings. The theme is quite interesting but I wish that there had been a bit more info about this talent of Celeste.
Plotline was interesting and really kept my interest but some of the minor characters were a bit odd. I can understand one unusual character, not a whole slew of them. I almost think the family visiting was just a bit too much for this story. It kept me from focusing on the sleuthing.
Overall it was a decent read. I will definitely check out other titles in this series.
If you like cozy mysteries, definitely 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 Haunted Craft Fair mystery series by Rose Pressey.
I enjoyed this book but wasn’t quite sure about the whole backstory relating to her painting haunted paintings. The theme is quite interesting but I wish that there had been a bit more info about this talent of Celeste.
Plotline was interesting and really kept my interest but some of the minor characters were a bit odd. I can understand one unusual character, not a whole slew of them. I almost think the family visiting was just a bit too much for this story. It kept me from focusing on the sleuthing.
Overall it was a decent read. I will definitely check out other titles in this series.
If you like cozy mysteries, definitely 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.
October 7, 2020
I enjoyed reading this title.
Funny, exciting and easy to read. Perfect afternoon read.
Can’t wait for the next instalment.
Note: I received an arc for review purposes and an honest and unbiased opinion.
Funny, exciting and easy to read. Perfect afternoon read.
Can’t wait for the next instalment.
Note: I received an arc for review purposes and an honest and unbiased opinion.
April 18, 2021
Even if I like this series I am not fond of this book.
It's a bit over my suspension of belief and Celeste grated on my nerves.
Not my cup of tea.
Many thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this ARC, all opinions are mine
It's a bit over my suspension of belief and Celeste grated on my nerves.
Not my cup of tea.
Many thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this ARC, all opinions are mine
September 23, 2020
This series is not for me, too much wackiness from her family and impulse from protagonist. That said, if those are your things, you’ll probably enjoy this book! The mystery was solid and I enjoyed the ghost portion, as well as the guys (no spoilers, but you’ll know once you read the book).
February 9, 2021
With a setting of the gorgeous Biltmore estate for her next craft show location, you would think that the author would use more of it. Besides the area where the murder occurred and some outside bits here and there, it could be any other former gilded age mansion with estate.
Celeste Cabot has once again travelled to another 'nearby' craft show in order to display and sell her paintings in her pink-and-white trailer and chihuahua companion, Van. Save for a few instances where she is actually creating another painting - does she eventually sell the ones that are tied to these mysteries? - and a bit of discussion with one possible customer, she spends more time sleuthing than selling. If she really intends to hopefully make a living at her craft, there needs to be a bit less Jessica Fletcher occurring.
Admittedly, then there won't be a series of books for readers to enjoy. Her two police detective male friends - Caleb and Pierce - are now both involved in the craft shows with their own artistic works. Never do find out what Pierce is working on but 'wacky and nosy and interfering' family are constantly pushing to find out which one she is dating. Even she is wondering so likely the men are too. The protective but authoritative detectives telling Celeste to not interfere with the police investigation in book one are now having her as a 'partner' in the investigation. Trying to appear more attractive to her? Maybe?
Murder and painting theft are all resolved in the end - admittedly the suspects were a bit too obvious. Even the ghost that Celeste initially determines to be William Biltmore (it wasn't) didn't really seem to have a reason for being present especially since it could not remember who he was. In the end, Celeste painted another portrait, another ghost appeared who ghost #1 recognized as his wife and they both head off to the afterlife. Yawn.
I can understand the loving family bits but seriously, Celeste - if she really wants to make a success at her artwork - needs to put her foot down and get them to quite interfering and obstructing. But I don't see that happening.
The trailer tips - which seemed so interesting and informative in earlier books - got a bit pushy since we had to include either a murder or paranormal connection. Add a couple of recipes as well as the first chapter of the next book in the series. It would have been nice for Pressey to include some information about the Biltmore Estate - location, website, if there was actually a craft show held there and when. Items of that flavor. She could do the same with the other sites that she uses as backdrops for her mysteries.
2021-026
Celeste Cabot has once again travelled to another 'nearby' craft show in order to display and sell her paintings in her pink-and-white trailer and chihuahua companion, Van. Save for a few instances where she is actually creating another painting - does she eventually sell the ones that are tied to these mysteries? - and a bit of discussion with one possible customer, she spends more time sleuthing than selling. If she really intends to hopefully make a living at her craft, there needs to be a bit less Jessica Fletcher occurring.
Admittedly, then there won't be a series of books for readers to enjoy. Her two police detective male friends - Caleb and Pierce - are now both involved in the craft shows with their own artistic works. Never do find out what Pierce is working on but 'wacky and nosy and interfering' family are constantly pushing to find out which one she is dating. Even she is wondering so likely the men are too. The protective but authoritative detectives telling Celeste to not interfere with the police investigation in book one are now having her as a 'partner' in the investigation. Trying to appear more attractive to her? Maybe?
Murder and painting theft are all resolved in the end - admittedly the suspects were a bit too obvious. Even the ghost that Celeste initially determines to be William Biltmore (it wasn't) didn't really seem to have a reason for being present especially since it could not remember who he was. In the end, Celeste painted another portrait, another ghost appeared who ghost #1 recognized as his wife and they both head off to the afterlife. Yawn.
I can understand the loving family bits but seriously, Celeste - if she really wants to make a success at her artwork - needs to put her foot down and get them to quite interfering and obstructing. But I don't see that happening.
The trailer tips - which seemed so interesting and informative in earlier books - got a bit pushy since we had to include either a murder or paranormal connection. Add a couple of recipes as well as the first chapter of the next book in the series. It would have been nice for Pressey to include some information about the Biltmore Estate - location, website, if there was actually a craft show held there and when. Items of that flavor. She could do the same with the other sites that she uses as backdrops for her mysteries.
2021-026
September 26, 2023
There were too many things about this book for me to really like it, but it was still a quick, light read. I don't remember Celeste being so wishy-washy in the other books or spending so much time worrying about the ramifications of EVERY move she made. Maybe I've just forgotten those things, but she sure did annoy me in this book. Still like her nutso family though. But my biggest issue with the book was the unbelievability of everything related to Biltmore house. Celeste enters the house at will, which would never happen in reality. And a priceless painting get stolen from the house. Yeah, right! I know it's fiction and a cozy but let's not totally throw out any reality of the historical property.
September 5, 2020
I enjoyed this book. It's a fast, easy read. I really liked the ghost character and the better look at Celeste's family. The mystery is interesting although it feels like it's solved too easily. #MurderCanHauntYourHandiwork #NetGalley
December 23, 2020
This is the 3rd installment in the Haunted Craft Fair Mystery series. Celeste Cabot and her family are at the Biltmore where she is in the craft show when her lively brothers go in a restricted area and they are kicked out. When Celeste goes to her trailer she finds she has lost her keys and she goes back to the mansion to see if she lost them there. While there she is almost trampled by people running away and she goes to see what the issue is and she finds a dead body. Security guards immediately cuff her but she tells them she was just checking to see if the woman was ok and she mentions Pierce and Caleb who are police officers back home and they can vouch for her. Fortunately, one of the police knows Pierce and she is uncuffed and her statement taken. She immediately wants to investigate to clear her name and find out who did this. Celeste goes back to her pink Shasta trailer with her Pink F-100 and begins to paint as she paints someone who later appears to her as a ghost. Celeste paints hidden items in her paintings as well and they are clues to the murder. Pierce and Caleb warn her off investigating and so does her family as they are still in town staying in a hotel. The ghost appears to look like William Vanderbilt who built the mansion and tags along as Celeste investigates. Pierce also begins to help her and thus continues the love triangle between them all. Her Grandmother and family are a hoot. Celeste is likeable although she does take some chances that seem out there without getting any assistance from anyone. Hopefully the love triangle can get resolved soon as I really don’t like those in a story. Enjoy the paranormal aspect and it is a quick read.
January 28, 2021
Princess Fuzzypants here: I have a confession. I really like this author but I am “on the fence”a bit with this series. Celeste is an artist who travels around in a pink trailer with her little dog. She is at another Craft Festival, this time held at Biltmore. She has an uncanny knack for going into a trance and painting a picture from which a ghost then appears. This time the ghost is none other than Mr. Vanderbilt. Celeste never knows why the ghost materializes until clues emerge from the painting but it is a good guess that it might have something to do with the tour guide who is murdered in his former home.
So far, so good. Add in two dishy cops both of whom are vying for Celeste’s affections and then a looney, over the top family who are like a disaster on legs. They create chaos wherever they go so not only is Celeste trying to find a murderer and then an art thief, she must attempt to keep her family in check. It is a good story and there are lots of action and chuckles. I like the way the ghosts are woven into the story too. What detracts for me is how Celeste puts herself in dangerous situations. She is aware of not wanting her family to be harmed but she will blithely wander around even while she acknowledges the danger. And her two would be beaux aid and abet like crazy.
Yet, this does not stop me from liking the books. Somehow she gets very near but skates past the Darwin line. I think the ghostly element negates a lot of sins. If you like your cozies with a supernatural touch, it is a fun read.
Four purrs and one paw up.
So far, so good. Add in two dishy cops both of whom are vying for Celeste’s affections and then a looney, over the top family who are like a disaster on legs. They create chaos wherever they go so not only is Celeste trying to find a murderer and then an art thief, she must attempt to keep her family in check. It is a good story and there are lots of action and chuckles. I like the way the ghosts are woven into the story too. What detracts for me is how Celeste puts herself in dangerous situations. She is aware of not wanting her family to be harmed but she will blithely wander around even while she acknowledges the danger. And her two would be beaux aid and abet like crazy.
Yet, this does not stop me from liking the books. Somehow she gets very near but skates past the Darwin line. I think the ghostly element negates a lot of sins. If you like your cozies with a supernatural touch, it is a fun read.
Four purrs and one paw up.
March 13, 2021
Thank you to NetGalley and Kensington Books for kindly providing me with a digital copy of this book for review.
This is a new to me series, but it’s actually book 3 in part of an ongoing Haunted Craft Fair Series. I think it may read better if read in order, but I wasn’t lost at any point due to prior plots.
This was just ok for me. I’ll be honest, I’m a bit of a hard sell when it comes to paranormal elements- I don’t always dislike it, but I often find I’m having to suspend my disbelief just a little too much in most of the ones I have read.
The main character in this novel discovers a tour guides body in a stately home, and as is often the case in cozy mysteries, she sets about investigating the murder in order to clear her own name. The quirky element of this book is her side kick is a ghost, who crops up with observations and witty remarks. He did have me chuckling at times but I generally found this part of the book a little over done.
Another element of the book which did not appeal to me was the love triangle between the main character and the 2 men investigating the case. I’m not a big fan of love triangles in stories as I think they’re used far more frequently than is actually representative of real life.
I think if you’re a seasoned paranormal cozy fan, then I’m sure you’ll enjoy this. Likewise if you’re a keen crafter then this might appeal- there are recipes running throughout the book. Personally I’d prefer these all at the end of the story as I think it sometimes breaks the flow, but that’s just personal choice. 3.5 stars
November 7, 2021
3.5 Stars rounded up: Murder Can Haunt Your Handiwork is the third book in A Haunted Craft Fair Mystery series. Celeste Cabot is an artist who travels from craft fair to craft fair to sell her paintings. The latest fair is on the grounds of the Biltmore Estate, a magnificent mansion in Asheville, North Carolina, Celeste and her little Chihuahua, Van Gogh have arrived in their pink and white trailer to meet her family. While touring the mansion, her family is kicked out due to a disturbance, but she needs to return to find her wallet. What she finds is a dead body, and the fact that a valuable painting is missing. Once again Celeste is under suspicion due to finding the body. Can she find the real killer?
Our protagonist, Celeste, has an interesting talent. She sees things in her paintings that are clues to solve the murders she is involved with. She is also visited by ghosts and her role is to help them find what they need to cross over. In this book she meets the ghost of one of the Vanderbilts. He doesn't remember much so they don't know what to look for. He does help Celeste in some investigation though. Celeste's family is involved in this story and her Granny is hilarious. I also liked the detective that helps her out, even though it is not his jurisdiction. This was a well written story, with some twists and some laughs. I did figure out the culprit rather early, but I enjoyed how the investigation played out.
Our protagonist, Celeste, has an interesting talent. She sees things in her paintings that are clues to solve the murders she is involved with. She is also visited by ghosts and her role is to help them find what they need to cross over. In this book she meets the ghost of one of the Vanderbilts. He doesn't remember much so they don't know what to look for. He does help Celeste in some investigation though. Celeste's family is involved in this story and her Granny is hilarious. I also liked the detective that helps her out, even though it is not his jurisdiction. This was a well written story, with some twists and some laughs. I did figure out the culprit rather early, but I enjoyed how the investigation played out.
January 14, 2021
Celeste Cabot is an artist visiting the Biltmore House in Asheville, North Carolina for an arts festival. When touring the house, Celeste stumbles onto a body. She becomes involved in a search for the killer and also creates a painting inspired by the events, which turns out to come with a friendly ghost.
I wanted to read Murder Can Haunt Your Handiwork because I was intrigued by the mention of Celeste having a pink vintage Shasta camper and a Chihuahua named Van (short for Van Gogh). I love vintage campers and small dogs, and enjoyed both these aspects of the story, as expected. (Van is very lovable!)
This is my first time to read a book in the Haunted Craft Fair Mystery series and it worked fine as a standalone. The author did a good job with character introductions and I was able to jump right in and enjoy the novel from the start.
This is a light mystery that combines murder, a little romance (Celeste has two potential boyfriends), some family fun (with Celeste's eccentric family), and even a paranormal element, since Celeste's paintings often come with visiting ghosts.
The mystery aspect of the story was well done and the author gave just enough clues to help the reader solve the crime along with Celeste.
Murder Can Haunt Your Handiwork was a fun, fast read. I would recommend it for fans of light paranormal cozy mysteries.
I wanted to read Murder Can Haunt Your Handiwork because I was intrigued by the mention of Celeste having a pink vintage Shasta camper and a Chihuahua named Van (short for Van Gogh). I love vintage campers and small dogs, and enjoyed both these aspects of the story, as expected. (Van is very lovable!)
This is my first time to read a book in the Haunted Craft Fair Mystery series and it worked fine as a standalone. The author did a good job with character introductions and I was able to jump right in and enjoy the novel from the start.
This is a light mystery that combines murder, a little romance (Celeste has two potential boyfriends), some family fun (with Celeste's eccentric family), and even a paranormal element, since Celeste's paintings often come with visiting ghosts.
The mystery aspect of the story was well done and the author gave just enough clues to help the reader solve the crime along with Celeste.
Murder Can Haunt Your Handiwork was a fun, fast read. I would recommend it for fans of light paranormal cozy mysteries.
September 27, 2020
Murder Can Haunt Your Handiwork is the third installment in the A Haunted Craft Fair Mystery series featuring Celeste Cabot and her tiny Chihuahua, Van Gogh. Celeste has brought her paintings and her pink trailer to the grounds of the Biltmore Estate for the annual craft fair. Accompanying Celeste much to her dismay is her entire family: her parents, her clumsy brothers and her feisty grandmother.
Celeste decides to take a tour through the Vanderbilt mansion and is shocked when one of the tour guides is found strangled by a rope barrier. Heading back to her trailer, Celeste finds herself painting a picture of a man and when the ghostly man appears he claims to be Mr. Vanderbilt - but is he really?
A quick but somewhat disappointing read. Celeste's actions in a strange place hunting down a killer are reckless, there is really no clear explanation of why the mysterious man in the painting appears to help Celeste, the killer is pretty clear from the outset and the love triangle between Celeste, Caleb and Pierce sadly continues.
I received an advanced copy of Murder Can Haunt Your Handiwork from NetGalley via Kensington Publishing. While not required to write a review I am happy to offer my honest opinion.
Celeste decides to take a tour through the Vanderbilt mansion and is shocked when one of the tour guides is found strangled by a rope barrier. Heading back to her trailer, Celeste finds herself painting a picture of a man and when the ghostly man appears he claims to be Mr. Vanderbilt - but is he really?
A quick but somewhat disappointing read. Celeste's actions in a strange place hunting down a killer are reckless, there is really no clear explanation of why the mysterious man in the painting appears to help Celeste, the killer is pretty clear from the outset and the love triangle between Celeste, Caleb and Pierce sadly continues.
I received an advanced copy of Murder Can Haunt Your Handiwork from NetGalley via Kensington Publishing. While not required to write a review I am happy to offer my honest opinion.
December 21, 2020
Celeste is a likable character but with each book she becomes more impulsive. There is no real reason for Celeste to investigate the death at Biltmore other than she can’t help getting involved.
Celeste kind of goes off the deep end and things don’t become recognizable until about 1/2 to 2/3 into the book.
Celeste makes assumptions about the ghost that comes along and creates confusion for most the book.
Pierce goes kind of contrary to character and says he will work with Celeste.
Caleb is a side note. Celeste’s family is more annoying than usual. The police are almost completely absent from the storyline. That bothers me just a bit.
The mystery itself is interesting and if there wasn’t so much zany and unsafe behavior going on this book would have really shone. As it was I liked the ending but was disappointed in the execution.
I have continued for three books. I’m not sure I’ll read the fourth.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to review this book prior to publication.
Celeste kind of goes off the deep end and things don’t become recognizable until about 1/2 to 2/3 into the book.
Celeste makes assumptions about the ghost that comes along and creates confusion for most the book.
Pierce goes kind of contrary to character and says he will work with Celeste.
Caleb is a side note. Celeste’s family is more annoying than usual. The police are almost completely absent from the storyline. That bothers me just a bit.
The mystery itself is interesting and if there wasn’t so much zany and unsafe behavior going on this book would have really shone. As it was I liked the ending but was disappointed in the execution.
I have continued for three books. I’m not sure I’ll read the fourth.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to review this book prior to publication.
January 2, 2021
Murder Can Haunt Your Handiwork by Rose Pressey
Publisher: Kensington Books
Genre: Mystery & Thrillers
Release Date: December 29, 2020
Murder Can Haunt Your Handiwork is the third book in the Haunted Craft Fair Mystery series by Rose Pressey. I had not read the previous books in the series, but that did not prevent me from being able to quickly jump into the book and get swept away by the story!
This was a cute paranormal cozy mystery about an artist who can see ghosts and her paintings give her clues about the murder she is trying to solve, along with her two policemen 'friends' (wink wink).
This book had a great pace and was easy to read. The sleuthing was fun and kept me guessing on the whodunit & how/why.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book and would recommend it to paranormal cozy mystery and cozy mystery fans alike! I look forward to reading the other books in the series, as well as other books by the author!
I'm so grateful to Rose Pressey, Kensington Books, and NetGalley for providing me with a free copy of this ARC ebook in exchange for my honest review.
Publisher: Kensington Books
Genre: Mystery & Thrillers
Release Date: December 29, 2020
Murder Can Haunt Your Handiwork is the third book in the Haunted Craft Fair Mystery series by Rose Pressey. I had not read the previous books in the series, but that did not prevent me from being able to quickly jump into the book and get swept away by the story!
This was a cute paranormal cozy mystery about an artist who can see ghosts and her paintings give her clues about the murder she is trying to solve, along with her two policemen 'friends' (wink wink).
This book had a great pace and was easy to read. The sleuthing was fun and kept me guessing on the whodunit & how/why.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book and would recommend it to paranormal cozy mystery and cozy mystery fans alike! I look forward to reading the other books in the series, as well as other books by the author!
I'm so grateful to Rose Pressey, Kensington Books, and NetGalley for providing me with a free copy of this ARC ebook in exchange for my honest review.
December 21, 2020
This is a fun, quirky cozy series and is best read in order. Celeste is a painter who travels to various craft/art fairs in her pink and white Shasta trailer accompanied by her Chihuahua, Van (Gogh). She is also visited by ghosts who appear in her paintings and tied to the mystery she gets involved in at each fair. This time the whole family is on stage and are they a handful. The setting is the Fifth Annual Biltmore estate Craft Fair in Asheville, North Carolina. It should be a wonderful event given the magnificent location but it isn't very long before Celeste finds herself trying to track down a killer and another ghost has to be dealt with...along with her family.
The mystery was solid and had enough twists and turns to keep me reading past my bedtime. I wasn't disappointed and I'm holding a spot on my TBR list for the next in the series. My thanks to the publisher Kensington and to NetGalley for giving me an advance copy in exchange for my honest review.
The mystery was solid and had enough twists and turns to keep me reading past my bedtime. I wasn't disappointed and I'm holding a spot on my TBR list for the next in the series. My thanks to the publisher Kensington and to NetGalley for giving me an advance copy in exchange for my honest review.
September 11, 2020
Celeste Cabot is attending a craft fair at the Historic Vanderbilt Estate and walks in to find a murder victim while touring the estate with her family. As she sets up for the fair, her paintings begin to show her spooky secrets and a ghost joins her from the other side as she tries to solve the murder. With both Pierce and Caleb in attendance, but not working in official capacity, Celeste finds herself spending more time with Pierce this time around. But will Celeste find the killer before she crosses over and joins the ghost on the other side?
A fun, quirky series from the talented Rose Pressey. If you haven’t read any of her work yet, feel free to dive in with this one. While it is the third book in the series, it reads well as a stand alone.
A fun, quirky series from the talented Rose Pressey. If you haven’t read any of her work yet, feel free to dive in with this one. While it is the third book in the series, it reads well as a stand alone.
October 7, 2020
Note that Rose Pressey is one of my favorite authors and really like her several series. I really like the characters in this series especially Celeste and Van Gogh the Chihuahua. I like her wacky family but wish there were a bit less of them in this installment. Overall, it was a funny, fast read. I wished there were more about the psychic paintings (a really great sub-plot) and how they helped solve the mystery. I wasn’t crazy about so many risky parts of sleuthing – Celeste is too smart to take so many risks. I enjoy the Celeste, Caleb and Pierce interactions. I really like the craft fair setting and wish it were developed more in the series. I think this book would be best enjoyed if the previous two installments were read first.
December 8, 2020
Celeste, Van the Chi, and unfortunately, her whole family, are at the Biltmore mansion so that Celeste can take part in a craft fair. Given her history, it's not a surprise when a tour guide is murdered and a painting stolen. There's a paranormal element in this series (it doesn't get too woohoo)- Celeste paints ghosts who help her solve crime. In this case, the man she paints claims to be Mr. Rockefeller. There's as much about Celeste's family (and her love interests Caleb and Pierce) as there is about the mystery this time. I find her family a tad irritating but I very much like Celeste and Van. It's not a classic cozy since she travels to different craft fairs but it's entirely accessible as a standalone. Thanks to netgalley for the ARC. Looking forward to the next one.
January 4, 2021
Celeste sells her paintings at craft fairs. She is excited for the opportunity to sell at the Biltmore Estate Craft Fair. Her entire family is looking forward to this fair and offers to come along and "help" her.
Celeste has another talent. Her paintings contain clues to solving crimes. They also seem to come to her from a dream-like state and sometimes allow ghosts to materialize. Celeste can see and speak to them but most others have no idea they are there.
If you liked television shows such as Medium or the Ghost Whisperer you will enjoy this series.
Celeste is intelligent but has a knack for putting herself into dangerous situations.
She has two good friends in law enforcement, but that brings complications as well.
Celeste has another talent. Her paintings contain clues to solving crimes. They also seem to come to her from a dream-like state and sometimes allow ghosts to materialize. Celeste can see and speak to them but most others have no idea they are there.
If you liked television shows such as Medium or the Ghost Whisperer you will enjoy this series.
Celeste is intelligent but has a knack for putting herself into dangerous situations.
She has two good friends in law enforcement, but that brings complications as well.
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