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Cozy Corgi #23
Lethal Lace
Snow-covered mountains, luminous glass ornaments, and ethereal wedding gowns…
When Winifred Page attends the Christmas-themed bridal show for a preeminent designer—solely to fulfill her role as best friend and maid of honor, mind you—she is stunned to find herself relishing the details of soft lace and the spectacular blown-glass display dangling overhead. Her delight doesn’t last long, though, as Fred’s aversion to everything fashion makes her jealous of her corgi, Watson, no doubt napping at home under the cozy Christmas tree.
The romance and elegance of haute couture doesn’t fade to a sublime end, however, as the show comes to a dead stop—literally, for one Estes Park merchant—with a cry of murder as a body is discovered in a lace-strewn dressing room.
Untangling relationships wrapped in secrets and lies is anything but a simple sashay down a runway. But Fred and Watson are determined to fashion the truth from the scraps they uncover to ensure justice and to return their cozy town to silent nights and white Christmas dreams for the holidays.
(This culinary cozy mystery includes a recipe for heavenly espresso chocolate babka.)
When Winifred Page attends the Christmas-themed bridal show for a preeminent designer—solely to fulfill her role as best friend and maid of honor, mind you—she is stunned to find herself relishing the details of soft lace and the spectacular blown-glass display dangling overhead. Her delight doesn’t last long, though, as Fred’s aversion to everything fashion makes her jealous of her corgi, Watson, no doubt napping at home under the cozy Christmas tree.
The romance and elegance of haute couture doesn’t fade to a sublime end, however, as the show comes to a dead stop—literally, for one Estes Park merchant—with a cry of murder as a body is discovered in a lace-strewn dressing room.
Untangling relationships wrapped in secrets and lies is anything but a simple sashay down a runway. But Fred and Watson are determined to fashion the truth from the scraps they uncover to ensure justice and to return their cozy town to silent nights and white Christmas dreams for the holidays.
(This culinary cozy mystery includes a recipe for heavenly espresso chocolate babka.)
- GenresMysteryCozy Mystery
482 pages, Paperback
First published October 30, 2021
133 people are currently reading
123 people want to read
About the author
Mildred Abbott
56 books369 followersMildred Abbott writes twisty cozy mysteries filled with humorous and complex characters. Whether brimming with magic or simply an above average dose of curiosity, Mildred's amateur sleuths solve murders with the cutest sidekicks ever.
Fifteen years as a special education teacher and a lifetime of loving rescue dogs results in creating adventures with a ton of heart and the need for lint rollers.
Connect with Mildred Abbott’s Cozy Mysteries on Facebook to catch the latest release and find fellow addicts of books, coffee, and corgis.
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MildredAbbot...
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mildredabbott/
Email: mildredabbottauthor@gmail.com
Newsletter Signup: http://www.mildredabbott.com/contact-...
Fifteen years as a special education teacher and a lifetime of loving rescue dogs results in creating adventures with a ton of heart and the need for lint rollers.
Connect with Mildred Abbott’s Cozy Mysteries on Facebook to catch the latest release and find fellow addicts of books, coffee, and corgis.
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MildredAbbot...
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mildredabbott/
Email: mildredabbottauthor@gmail.com
Newsletter Signup: http://www.mildredabbott.com/contact-...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 61 reviews
December 21, 2021
This is 23. Fred and Katie went to Day of Lace where there was a runway with the Pink Panthers ( Deliah and gang) with Tiffany and her friends on runway too. For wedding dresses for Katie and Fred dresses. Fred was wondering why the owner Roan and the designer Devinia is ( that came to Estes Park ) it that why the Pink Panthers and Tiffany gang were models. Because They were not model worthy Tiffany. Well Roan got killed and so did Tiffany at Day of Lace. I think this might be last book in series. I hope not. But I really enjoyed these series.
September 14, 2025
Finally the wedding. The killer was definitely a surprise in this one. One of the better books in the series now that’s it’s not focused on Branson and the Irons family.
November 20, 2021
Lethal Lace
Aww that ending. Thank goodness, I was over Fred’s complaining lol. This is such a fun series with so many great characters.
Aww that ending. Thank goodness, I was over Fred’s complaining lol. This is such a fun series with so many great characters.
November 13, 2021
A Fantastic Read 🐾🐾
I cannot believe that Mildred could produce something more fantastic than the previous 22 books about Fred and the wonderful Watson. I can only acknowledge that Lethal Lace is the best in the whole series so far. Mildred has the gift of describing the scenes and characters so well that I felt as if I was part of the story, not reading about it. I loved the grumpiness, yet loveable nature of Watson. Fred, Leo, Kate and other characters were varied, but gelled together so well.
I cannot believe that Mildred could produce something more fantastic than the previous 22 books about Fred and the wonderful Watson. I can only acknowledge that Lethal Lace is the best in the whole series so far. Mildred has the gift of describing the scenes and characters so well that I felt as if I was part of the story, not reading about it. I loved the grumpiness, yet loveable nature of Watson. Fred, Leo, Kate and other characters were varied, but gelled together so well.
February 22, 2022
Reviewed by Robin Powers for The Smut-Brarians Blog
Another entertaining cozy mystery that left me smiling at the end. The characters are all so endearing and I feel like they are part of my family. I especially love how the relationships evolve in these stories where animosities mellow out and Fred finds herself unexpected allies. Lots of twists in the unraveling of this latest mystery...so many suspects that I was off in a couple directions. I loved it! I look forward to many more stories in this series and other books by Mildred Abbott.
Another entertaining cozy mystery that left me smiling at the end. The characters are all so endearing and I feel like they are part of my family. I especially love how the relationships evolve in these stories where animosities mellow out and Fred finds herself unexpected allies. Lots of twists in the unraveling of this latest mystery...so many suspects that I was off in a couple directions. I loved it! I look forward to many more stories in this series and other books by Mildred Abbott.
November 10, 2021
LETHAL LACE
What a treat to see a new Cozy Corgi Mystery AND as I was reading, it turns out to be the most fascinating and engaging book of the entire series so far.
A snowy December in Estes Park is the backdrop as the story opens in the showroom of a wedding-dress shop, spectacularly decorated with snowy white Christmas trees with twinkling lights, A sparkling blown glass display of hanging orbs, and twisted spikes from the ceiling is suspended over the runway in clear glass and shades of vintage gowns. Even the music is composed of elegant versions of old favorites.
Fred is here with her best friend Katie and her highly fashion-critical uncle Percival and
his patient husband. The local shop Day of Lace is hosting A trunk show of specialty bridal creations from the designer Davina Malloy. Humoring her uncle, Fred agrees to be inundated with fluffy, romantic, lacy white wedding gowns, none of which she can imagine fitting her own body into. Then after the final choice she imagines the bothersome fittings, underpinnings and probably heels, none are Fred’s idea of the way she would want to look.
After the first selection of models, the designer, Davina Malloy announces an intermission then the models will reappear in the same designs but with different fabric interpretations.
Screams from behind front of the shop grabs everyone’s attention as a shaken man
saying “he’s dead!” and thus the first murder is announced.
With the arrival of Detective Susan Green, Fred us drawn into a murder investigation.
One which will forever stain both Fred and the reader’s ideals of white satin, tule, and lace.
As the first murder becomes two, Mildred Abbott creates a mystery of layers and half-truths, wedding planning and holiday celebrations. So, the reader is both anxious
to catch what could be another clue and hints from the wedding which from chapter to chapter becomes more and less important.
Such a sensational read from page to page and a little bit of a sniffle and reaching for a tissue at the end.
BEST OF ALL a recipe for Katie’s special
Espresso Chocolate Babka at the end.
November 9, 2021
I've loved this series from day one and that love affair continues. Abbott has done a wonderful job of character development, making me feel like I know Fred and Watson and their many friends and family members. This book in the series struck me as both poignant and hopeful, with an eye to the future while treasuring the past. Just as grumpy corgi Watson remains, well, grumpy, Fred remains try to her fashion sense, even when it comes to weddings. For those who've followed the series, never fear. Help is at hand.... if she'll accept it. The murder may dominate Fred's thoughts leading up to the Christmas holiday but there is some family "stuff" to deal with, too, as well as the mystery of who did it. I have to admit, I didn't warm up to Leo initially but over time as the series has progressed have come to really respect and appreciate him for the man that has emerged from his past. Hey, Watson loves him. That's good enough for me.
Bottom line, if you like mysteries with well-rounded characters, even some who wear on you at times, people who care about others, even those who've done wrong, an incredibly beautiful setting, food, oh, my, the food, and corgis, grumpy or not, Lethal Lace should be a must read for you. In fact, you'll probably enjoy the entire series. My corgi mix, who isn't quite a grumpy as Watson, thank goodness, gives this one four paws and a tail wag.
Bottom line, if you like mysteries with well-rounded characters, even some who wear on you at times, people who care about others, even those who've done wrong, an incredibly beautiful setting, food, oh, my, the food, and corgis, grumpy or not, Lethal Lace should be a must read for you. In fact, you'll probably enjoy the entire series. My corgi mix, who isn't quite a grumpy as Watson, thank goodness, gives this one four paws and a tail wag.
November 14, 2021
Was it just me???? Or was this book the Best by far???? At number 23 I have read every book in the series……So I am a fan, yet this by far had ALL the feels I needed……
Fred and Katie both engaged are in a happy place……Now the weddings!!!! Katie has picked out her dress and the designer is coming to Estes Park for a full blown Fashion Show Extravaganza the Estes Bridal Store with a Runway Show.
The gowns were beautiful, over 100 people attended and right from the beginning, Winifred had to put away her wedding hives and go solve a DOUBLE MURDER. It happened so fast in the book; we almost had to jump into sleuth mode immediately.
Two people are found dead, both shot in the back room of the show; actually during the show. Both have had negative backgrounds in Estes Park. But what was the key for both of them to die?
While we are investigating this, Fred and Leo’s relationship takes on a whole new meaning as they talk about planning a wedding. With Leo’s family being a disappointment and Fred’s fear of dresses, their relationship through this book moves us, as we see them stronger!
I must admit I had the killer on my guilty list! I am finally on Ms Abbotts wave length and the author dropped clues to me that I had that ‘hunch’……
Of course with all the talk of that Babka, I am trying ti make it for the holidays…..The author had my mouth watering to make it immediately!!
Fred and Katie both engaged are in a happy place……Now the weddings!!!! Katie has picked out her dress and the designer is coming to Estes Park for a full blown Fashion Show Extravaganza the Estes Bridal Store with a Runway Show.
The gowns were beautiful, over 100 people attended and right from the beginning, Winifred had to put away her wedding hives and go solve a DOUBLE MURDER. It happened so fast in the book; we almost had to jump into sleuth mode immediately.
Two people are found dead, both shot in the back room of the show; actually during the show. Both have had negative backgrounds in Estes Park. But what was the key for both of them to die?
While we are investigating this, Fred and Leo’s relationship takes on a whole new meaning as they talk about planning a wedding. With Leo’s family being a disappointment and Fred’s fear of dresses, their relationship through this book moves us, as we see them stronger!
I must admit I had the killer on my guilty list! I am finally on Ms Abbotts wave length and the author dropped clues to me that I had that ‘hunch’……
Of course with all the talk of that Babka, I am trying ti make it for the holidays…..The author had my mouth watering to make it immediately!!
November 22, 2021
Two Murders at a Wedding Dress Show
by Barbara Kelley
As always, this episode was the best one ever! There are two murders at a wedding dress show, and you will NEVER guess who the murderer is. I didn't know who the killer was until Winifred hit me in the face with the person, and I was literally praying that several of the suspects would not be the killer. All of this happened, while many of the people in Estes Park, Colorado planned Winifred and Leo's wedding. Winifred doesn't want a fancy wedding gown. What will she get? I noticed in this episode just how much Detective Susan Green and Carla Breaker are similar in speech patterns. I love it when Winifred reads her mystery books. In this episode, she reads the "latest Agatha Frost book", which is from the Peridale Cafe series. I, also,absolutely adore Susan's character in this series, tough exterior with a romantic Hallmark movie interior. My favorite character, of course, is Watson, our lovable grumpy corgi, and the way the author treats him like the major character he is, both physically and psychologically. The author shows how human a dog can be. I hope this is not the last episode because I believe Winifred needs a human baby, maybe twins (a boy and a girl), to go along with her fur baby. I gave this episode 5 big fat stars!
by Barbara Kelley
As always, this episode was the best one ever! There are two murders at a wedding dress show, and you will NEVER guess who the murderer is. I didn't know who the killer was until Winifred hit me in the face with the person, and I was literally praying that several of the suspects would not be the killer. All of this happened, while many of the people in Estes Park, Colorado planned Winifred and Leo's wedding. Winifred doesn't want a fancy wedding gown. What will she get? I noticed in this episode just how much Detective Susan Green and Carla Breaker are similar in speech patterns. I love it when Winifred reads her mystery books. In this episode, she reads the "latest Agatha Frost book", which is from the Peridale Cafe series. I, also,absolutely adore Susan's character in this series, tough exterior with a romantic Hallmark movie interior. My favorite character, of course, is Watson, our lovable grumpy corgi, and the way the author treats him like the major character he is, both physically and psychologically. The author shows how human a dog can be. I hope this is not the last episode because I believe Winifred needs a human baby, maybe twins (a boy and a girl), to go along with her fur baby. I gave this episode 5 big fat stars!
November 14, 2021
Another well-crafted, crafty mystery!
I'm amazed how fast the author can turn out these fun novels! She creates engaging characters, both people and furry (although I have to admit that Watson is my favorite!). She has a knack for writing cozy mysteries that keep you guessing through multiple, believable red herrings. This book even has a fake climax! I'm not going to even hint at the ending except to say that it's perfect and probably led me to conclude that this book is by far my favorite! Well done! Cue the applause! I'm trying to decide if I'm going to attempt the recipe at the end, but I need to do something to stop the drooling!
I'm amazed how fast the author can turn out these fun novels! She creates engaging characters, both people and furry (although I have to admit that Watson is my favorite!). She has a knack for writing cozy mysteries that keep you guessing through multiple, believable red herrings. This book even has a fake climax! I'm not going to even hint at the ending except to say that it's perfect and probably led me to conclude that this book is by far my favorite! Well done! Cue the applause! I'm trying to decide if I'm going to attempt the recipe at the end, but I need to do something to stop the drooling!
November 14, 2021
Feels 1
Storyline 4.5
Steam 0
Overall Rating 4.5
Kindle eArc provided by Author
Reviewed by Robin
Another entertaining cozy mystery that left me smiling at the end. The characters are all so endearing and I feel like they are part of my family. I especially love how the relationships evolve in these stories where animosities mellow out and Fred finds herself unexpected allies. Lots of twists in the unraveling of this latest mystery...so many suspects that I was off in a couple directions. I loved it! I look forward to many more stories in this series and other books by Mildred Abbott.
Storyline 4.5
Steam 0
Overall Rating 4.5
Kindle eArc provided by Author
Reviewed by Robin
Another entertaining cozy mystery that left me smiling at the end. The characters are all so endearing and I feel like they are part of my family. I especially love how the relationships evolve in these stories where animosities mellow out and Fred finds herself unexpected allies. Lots of twists in the unraveling of this latest mystery...so many suspects that I was off in a couple directions. I loved it! I look forward to many more stories in this series and other books by Mildred Abbott.
November 21, 2021
The best book ever!!!!!
What a wonderful Christmas gift to all of your readers. You are truly my favorite author. I've never had a moment of disappointment in any of the Cozy Corgi books, only when I've finished one and had to wait for the next to be available. like always I'm waiting somewhat impatiently for more Fred and Watson and Katie and Leo and Joe. If you, as the readers, have not read any of the books in this series I wish I were you and had the entire series ahead of me. You will not be disappointed!
What a wonderful Christmas gift to all of your readers. You are truly my favorite author. I've never had a moment of disappointment in any of the Cozy Corgi books, only when I've finished one and had to wait for the next to be available. like always I'm waiting somewhat impatiently for more Fred and Watson and Katie and Leo and Joe. If you, as the readers, have not read any of the books in this series I wish I were you and had the entire series ahead of me. You will not be disappointed!
February 17, 2023
The moment we've all been waiting for
Why do I feel like this town in the mountains is my home town (at least my home town away from my home town)? Everyone in it my friends I've never really met but feel like I've known all my life. I'm sorry to say this mystery murder was completely overshadowed by the ending. The most scrumptious, delicious ending ever. Sorry. Not sorry. I love this series, not just for the corgi in it(maybe mostly for the corgi in it) but also for its wit and charm and the loveable characters and the ugly villains as well. This one truly takes the cake.
Why do I feel like this town in the mountains is my home town (at least my home town away from my home town)? Everyone in it my friends I've never really met but feel like I've known all my life. I'm sorry to say this mystery murder was completely overshadowed by the ending. The most scrumptious, delicious ending ever. Sorry. Not sorry. I love this series, not just for the corgi in it(maybe mostly for the corgi in it) but also for its wit and charm and the loveable characters and the ugly villains as well. This one truly takes the cake.
November 10, 2021
Wonderful!
Getting a new Mildred Abbott dropped into my Kindle is a great treat, and this one did not disappoint. Fred is doing her best to be an enthusiastic maid of honor for her best friend Katie, even though wedding plans give her hives. Luckily, there is soon a murder to solve. The characters are realistic as usual, and I didn't guess who the murderer was until the reveal. Of course, Watson's antics nearly steal the show. This is the best one yet.
Getting a new Mildred Abbott dropped into my Kindle is a great treat, and this one did not disappoint. Fred is doing her best to be an enthusiastic maid of honor for her best friend Katie, even though wedding plans give her hives. Luckily, there is soon a murder to solve. The characters are realistic as usual, and I didn't guess who the murderer was until the reveal. Of course, Watson's antics nearly steal the show. This is the best one yet.
November 25, 2021
An absolute gem! The culmination of years of getting to know all the characters, their likes, dislikes, quirks - all comes together in Lethal Lace for Fred and Leo and Katie and Watson. A gruesome double murder amid the blissful beauty of designer wedding gowns. The plot twists and turns will have the reader guessing til the very end, and even then it seems unbelievable. A fitting and beautiful ending will have the fans of this series grinning ear to ear!
December 20, 2021
Fred Did it again!
With so many suspects who could murder someone with all the people around. And all those affairs going on. Fred is helping the police again and will she find the killer? The chief wants her help this time he ask for her help. Carla and Fred get where they can actually talk without fighting. Leo has a surprise for Fred if she can trust him. Good clean reading. Jo
With so many suspects who could murder someone with all the people around. And all those affairs going on. Fred is helping the police again and will she find the killer? The chief wants her help this time he ask for her help. Carla and Fred get where they can actually talk without fighting. Leo has a surprise for Fred if she can trust him. Good clean reading. Jo
January 9, 2022
What a wonderful series!
As always Mildred Abbott had crafted a perfect cozy read! I have now read, straight through, from owl feather to a perfect ending.
As I sit here in happy tears I am so happy I stumbled upon this author! I have recommended it to many at the library where I work. Just wonderful characters that I feel, through such perfect descriptions, I know personally.
As always Mildred Abbott had crafted a perfect cozy read! I have now read, straight through, from owl feather to a perfect ending.
As I sit here in happy tears I am so happy I stumbled upon this author! I have recommended it to many at the library where I work. Just wonderful characters that I feel, through such perfect descriptions, I know personally.
November 11, 2021
The best so far
This series has never failed to entertain me; this is the ultimate, connecting any loose dots to form a fantastic story. The mystery kept me guessing, and all my favorite characters were present in some context. All I can say is, pour some cocoa and settle back for an excellent Christmas mystery read.
This series has never failed to entertain me; this is the ultimate, connecting any loose dots to form a fantastic story. The mystery kept me guessing, and all my favorite characters were present in some context. All I can say is, pour some cocoa and settle back for an excellent Christmas mystery read.
November 14, 2021
WOW!!!
Always enjoy the Cozy Corgi mysteries and this did not disappoint. The mystery was a double murder and the killer was a surprise. No spoilers. After the murder was a special surprise that I didn't see coming but was so special! I long for the next Cozy Corgi mystery to see what's next.
Always enjoy the Cozy Corgi mysteries and this did not disappoint. The mystery was a double murder and the killer was a surprise. No spoilers. After the murder was a special surprise that I didn't see coming but was so special! I long for the next Cozy Corgi mystery to see what's next.
April 19, 2022
I would have given #23 a 3-4 as so many characters and a LOT happening BUT the last portion of the book brought endless JOY that made me feel so good as Abbott truly created enduring characters who cared deeply, knew each other well, and all was right at the moment, as surely there will be more murders, with the beloved Estes characters Fred, Watson, Leo, family and friends.
July 13, 2022
Come to a fantastic time in the mountains and what, a murder, oh my.
I loved the story and the characters are so real. I love them all. I know Fred is different about fashion, but it was perfect. The Corgi, what can I say, he brings delight in every story. I love it all and what a way to enjoy an evening all it takes is this great story.
I loved the story and the characters are so real. I love them all. I know Fred is different about fashion, but it was perfect. The Corgi, what can I say, he brings delight in every story. I love it all and what a way to enjoy an evening all it takes is this great story.
November 10, 2021
My favorite book yet!!!
I have read all the books in this series and feel like the characters are old friends at this point! This story is my favorite so far and everything about it is just perfect. Can't Waite for the next adventure!!!
I have read all the books in this series and feel like the characters are old friends at this point! This story is my favorite so far and everything about it is just perfect. Can't Waite for the next adventure!!!
November 12, 2021
A masterpiece, as usual!
This book exceeded my expectations. Love, family, friendships, and beauty in the Christmas snow. All with an incredibly cute Corgi and suspense! What more could you want?
This book exceeded my expectations. Love, family, friendships, and beauty in the Christmas snow. All with an incredibly cute Corgi and suspense! What more could you want?
November 12, 2021
Loved This Book
I loved this book filled with plenty of suspense twists and turns.
There was romance sprinkled through the book with a crescendo ending.
This book is highly recommended
I loved this book filled with plenty of suspense twists and turns.
There was romance sprinkled through the book with a crescendo ending.
This book is highly recommended
November 13, 2021
Thank you
It was a wonderful adventure to read. Only sorry it is to end. The hardest part was waiting for the next book to come out. Thank you again for your delightful imagination and hard work.
It was a wonderful adventure to read. Only sorry it is to end. The hardest part was waiting for the next book to come out. Thank you again for your delightful imagination and hard work.
November 14, 2021
Best in Series....so far!
Best book yet. I laughed and cried...a lot, but loved every bit of it. Thought I had figured "who done it"........but I didn't. Great writing.....keep the series going; I love the characters !
Best book yet. I laughed and cried...a lot, but loved every bit of it. Thought I had figured "who done it"........but I didn't. Great writing.....keep the series going; I love the characters !
November 18, 2021
Beautiful
What a beautiful culmination of storylines as well as a mystery that kept me guessing until the reveal. I'm proud to keep reading this series and can't wait till the next is out.
What a beautiful culmination of storylines as well as a mystery that kept me guessing until the reveal. I'm proud to keep reading this series and can't wait till the next is out.
November 25, 2021
No spoilers, but WOW!
I’ve loved all the books in this series, but this takes the (5-layer) cake. Plot twists, locked room, tangles of suspects, even a moose! I saved it for a night when I knew I needed a treat. And it certainly delivered!
I’ve loved all the books in this series, but this takes the (5-layer) cake. Plot twists, locked room, tangles of suspects, even a moose! I saved it for a night when I knew I needed a treat. And it certainly delivered!
November 29, 2021
Couldn't ask for better!!!!!!!
I have enjoyed all of the stories, the people, and all the action. This story is my favorite!!!! It ia partly because of the wedding, but also the happiness that is created. I am glad there is going to be more stories as these are my favorites!!!!
I have enjoyed all of the stories, the people, and all the action. This story is my favorite!!!! It ia partly because of the wedding, but also the happiness that is created. I am glad there is going to be more stories as these are my favorites!!!!
December 2, 2021
Loved Lethal Lace
I have read all 23 of the Cozy Corgi mysteries and enjoyed them. This was like the wedding topper of the series. An engaging mystery followed by a romantic ending. Hoping for more in the series since the town has so many people who have become like friends.
I have read all 23 of the Cozy Corgi mysteries and enjoyed them. This was like the wedding topper of the series. An engaging mystery followed by a romantic ending. Hoping for more in the series since the town has so many people who have become like friends.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 61 reviews