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Knitty Kitty Mystery #5

Slip-Stitched & Slayed: A Humorous & Heart-warming Cozy Mystery

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Santa Claus is coming to town-so who killed him?

The Silly Season has arrived in Cape Discovery! Tessa Wakefield's a softie and can't say no to acting as one of Santa's elves in the annual holiday parade. But when the jolly guest of honour topples off his sleigh and kicks the bucket on the town's main street, all of Santa's little helpers come under suspicion.

Tessa's determined not to trade her Santa hat for her sleuthing one. Christmas is only twelve days away, and Tessa doesn't have time for murder. She's too busy baking sugar cookies and spreading holiday cheer to the last-minute shoppers at her bustling yarn store. But even the loudest Christmas carols can't drown out the hum of local gossip or dampen Tessa's curious spirit, and she finds herself tangled in a murder investigation with all the yuletide trimmings.

Is Mrs. Claus a grieving widow or a Kris Kringle killer? Did the Grinch ruin Christmas once and for all? Why is Rudolph so nosey? What deadly secrets are the Christmas Fairy and Frosty hiding? Can Tessa figure out who slayed Santa before Christmas morning? She ho-ho-hopes so, otherwise a lump of coal in her stocking won't be the only lump she receives.

183 pages, Kindle Edition

Published December 5, 2021

59 people are currently reading
109 people want to read

About the author

Tracey Drew

7 books178 followers
This is a pen name for author Tracey Alvarez.

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5 stars
204 (52%)
4 stars
132 (33%)
3 stars
48 (12%)
2 stars
6 (1%)
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2 (<1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews
Profile Image for Cathy Geha.
4,350 reviews119 followers
December 7, 2021
Slip-Stitched & Slayed by Tracey Drew
A Knitty Kitties #5

I’m not sure how a murder mystery can be fun but this one was! Sure, a few people died but then some do in murder mysteries.

What I liked:
* Tessa Wakefield: runs Unraveled yarn shop, granddaughter, daughter, sister, mediator, problem solver, middle child, human of Kit & Pearl, amateur sleuth, girlfriend of Oliver…at least for now
* Kit & Pearl: siblings, felines, once belonged to Tessa’s grandmother, love sweets and other human food, usually where they are not supposed to be, and there when you need them.
* Oliver: nice guy, pub owner, dog walker, romantic, boyfriend of Tessa
* Eric: police detective, potential suitor of Tessa, intriguing, big, handsome, would like to know more about him
* Tessa’s family: close, loving, not as present in this story but presence definitely felt
* The look into Christmas where it is summer
* The way characters were described, and clues slowly were exposed
* That not everybody was what they appeared to be at first glance
* The location – have always wanted to visit New Zealand and Australia
* The parrot being babysat by her grandfather harry – have a feeling he will play a part in future books…maybe?
* The part Kit & Pearl played in apprehending the murderer
* All of it really except…

What I didn’t like:
* Knowing that bullies are out there and thinking about the damage they do

Did I enjoy this book? Yes
Would I read more in this series? Yes

Thank you to the author for the ARC – This is my honest review.

4-5 Stars
Profile Image for Jennifer.
2,911 reviews6 followers
December 29, 2021
2.75 stars.

All the same can be said about this one that I said about the previous installment.
Profile Image for Leslie.
157 reviews1 follower
December 3, 2021
I love this series! I think Tessa is awesome and she isn't one of those armchair sleuths that you question why no one has hurt her or put her in jail for her infernal nosiness. The cast of characters are fantastic and the mystery isn't one that is obvious. Plus there are cats involved!

In this 5th installment around the holidays, the story opens with a pre-Christmas church service in which the Nativity is being shown for the first time. The Vicar's wife pulls on the silken cord to open the green velvet drape....and what to our wandering eyes should appear....Like I'd give away the first chapter spoiler! Trust me though, GREAT way to start a book!

So, it's Christmas in New Zealand which means it's summer - talk about cultural differences! While we in the northern hemisphere (at least in the northern northern hemisphere) have snow, cold, chestnuts roasting on an open fire (because it's cold), in New Zealand there are shorts, barbeques and, of course, murder!

We meet some new characters, including a parrot who speaks "Dirty Harry, punk", a slew of DOPEs, as well as a lot of time with papa Wakefield (we all want one!), Harry and, of course our two favorite guys, Ollie and Eric. Personal note, I'm 100% in the Eric camp and am cranky but I figure there are more books to come.

The murder. Nasty guy, dressed as Santa, is killed by vape (which is why we don't vape, kids! Especially when nasty chemicals are added!). Who killed him....and why did the second murder happen? Tessa is in a great position to ask some good questions and the suspects abound - except her dad because he never would. I have to admit, the second murder made me sad especially when you read the details of the victims life. Too many are sadly affected - personally, I teared up a bit. Tessa and Eric, excuse me, Detective Sgt. Manna, work together - or as much together as a serious minded DS is willing to work with a civilian he cares....oops, personal opinion.

The ending is epic and here is where I must pay homage to Kit and Pearl - the two best fictional cats as far as I'm concerned! I love these two felines. They are great throughout the book but the ending is why Tracey Drew writes with them in mind! Loves these two so much, my cats are a bit annoyed at me as I point out their antics in comparison to their couch potato approach at life.

If you haven't read this series, start at book 1, trust me you will not regret it! If you have read this series, get this one, settle down, hot cocoa in hand (it is the holidays) and enjoy!

Profile Image for Becky.
3,434 reviews142 followers
December 11, 2021
Another adorable cozy installment in Tracey Drew's Knitty Kitty Mystery series--this time with New Zealand holiday flair!

Once again, Tessa Wakefield finds herself a witness to murder--this time it's the local businessman who is playing Santa for the holiday parade--and yes, he keels over in front of an audience! Ms Drew does a nice job of throwing in just enough red herrings and false leads to keep the reader guessing, right up until the end. (I have to admit, this time I did guess who it was, but not exactly why. Pay attention to who's wearing what at the parade, is all I have to say ;))

Everyone's favorite felines have a new "sibling" and just wait until you see who he is...and there's just enough adorable pg-rated snogging with Tessa's new beau to keep even readers who don't live in the southern hemisphere warm this season. <3

(Can I just say--you're missing nothing not having Christmas in the winter, Tessa. Sure, white Christmases *can* look lovely. If it snows. And if everyone hasn't driven/walked/plowed/salted all over it, making it a gray goopy mess. But showing up at your in-laws and not being able to even get in the driveway because no one has bothered shoveling and your car with 2 small kids in it keeps getting stuck in what the plow has left there and NO ONE is coming to see where you are? Been there, done that. Being fairly certain you can plan on sitting on a beach instead sounds much more preferable, IMO)

Rating: 4 stars / A-

I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
1,769 reviews24 followers
November 29, 2022
Slip-Stitched & Slayed

Tracey Drew's writing cozey mystery murders such as this series is like a nice aged wine ,it has grown better with each new mystery with deeper flavors in the vibrant, colorful and quirky characters that draw your curiosity from the very first page enjoying their flavors, while the mystery entices you further with each change of direction in its cascade of intrigue, motive and suspects with a plot that carries you throughout with its flush of humor.I couldn't put it aside once I started until I'd reached its unexpected and climatic conclusion. What a fabulous clean and classic Christmas cozey mystery murder to snuggle down with. Acquire " Slip-Stitch & Slayed " the fifth book in ( A Knitty Kitties Mystery)for hours of enjoyable entertainment.OH and did I mention the two knotty kitties and the newest member to the household a talking parrot. 😉😀 Kat
791 reviews6 followers
December 4, 2021
An amusing, quick read. Tessa is dressed up as an elf helping Santa in the Discovery Bay Christmas Procession when Santa suddenly starts choking, and collapses, and despite all the efforts of the paramedics who are quickly at the scene, he dies. Detective Sergeant Eric Mana is soon on the scene. Tessa cannot resist asking a few questions of the several people who were also on the float, and soon learns that Santa / Gus Fowler was an unpleasant man who was generally disliked, and there were several people who had a motive to kill him.

Soon there is a further murder, and Tessa is getting closer to working out who the murderer is when she finds herself in extreme danger of being the third victim. Her tenacious furry assistants, Pearl and Kit, would never let that happen though!

A pleasant, easy read with a Christmas theme.
Profile Image for JigsawGirl.
4,176 reviews
December 5, 2021
Tessa finds herself in the middle of a murder mystery again. I look forward to Kit and Pearls antics, but it didn't seem like they were as involved in this book as they were in previous books. Then, they had their moment.

Every book I would wonder who Tessa was going to end up with between Oliver and Eric. That was answered in this book, but I am not convinced that it will be the final decision.

I had a fairly good idea of the identity of the murderer early on and waa very surprised to learn I was right. If I figured it out at all in the previous books, it usually wasn't until the very end. I felt like something was slightly off with this book, but I couldn't put my finger on what was missing. This book wasn't my favorite of the series, but it was still a good read. I would give it 3.5 stars.

I voluntarily read and reviewed the Advanced Reader Copy of this book.
903 reviews5 followers
December 3, 2021
I seriously adore this author and series! You just know when you pick up a Tracey Drew book that it’s going to have humor, hysterical scenes, suspense, mystery, and a very well written storyline. Tessa is back once again, this time with her new beau in tow, and trouble always follows her, even when she’s not looking for it. Loved Pearl and Kit, Harry is always up front and pretty darn funny, and the new addition of Dwayne to this crazy mix is perfect. Enjoyed every page turning minute of this book, can’t wait to add it to my permanent library.

I voluntarily reviewed an ARC copy of this book.
Profile Image for Donna.
Author 7 books33 followers
January 9, 2022
Another engaging story in a terrific series. When Santa drops dead at the start of the Christmas parade, Tessa is right there to witness the entire event. She is soon questioning possible suspects and uncovering savory gossip and clues. There are several viable suspects and some twists and turns. As always, Harry is such an interesting character. Kit and Pearl bring humor to the story along with newcomer Dwayne, the parrot. Tessa and Oliver seem to have cemented their relationship. Although, neither Oliver nor Eric had a big role in this story they were still involved. I'm looking forward to the next book in the series.
Profile Image for Andrea Walker.
150 reviews7 followers
September 22, 2022
I am SO torn!!!!


I have LOVED this series so much. It encompasses so many of my passions it felt it was written for me specifically.

I have loved the Witty banter- the hijinks of the cats- the predicaments Tessa has gotten into- and the battle of love she has endured throughout the series.

I was originally very torn on who I wanted Tessa to end up with but as this book came to a close I think my heart goes out for the solo heart. I think I wanted that relationship more.

If you want to get lost in a new world of murder, twists, fluffy hijinks, family closeness, and love this series is 1000% recommended.
Profile Image for Brenda.
3,506 reviews47 followers
February 6, 2023
The End of this Series
The Silly Season has arrived in Cape Discovery! Tessa Wakefield's a softie and can't say no to acting as one of Santa's elves in the annual holiday parade. But when the jolly guest of honour topples off his sleigh and kicks the bucket on the town's main street, all of Santa's little helpers come under suspicion.
This is the last book in this series.
Santa was the victim of this murder. They're were two other people who were killed by the murderer.
I borrowed this book from Kindle Unlimited. This in no way affects my opinion of this book which I read and reviewed voluntarily.
Profile Image for Kelly.
225 reviews
December 19, 2021
This is another clever mystery set in Cape Discovery that involves many more people than just Tessa Wakefield this time - in fact it was the whole float that she was on in the Christmas parade. Curiosity gets the most of Tessa and her feline friends and she gets up to a lot of trouble in a short amount of time. I loved the storyline and the characters are lots of fun - it was a hard book to put down and I was pleasantly surprised at the ending!

I received a free copy of this story in exchange for my honest opinion.
Profile Image for Mareli Thalwitzer.
515 reviews29 followers
January 8, 2022
This review was first published @ Elza Reads

As you can see from the synopsis, it's Christmas time in Cape Discovery and what a silly season it is indeed. We also live in The Southern Hemisphere where the only White Christmas you see are the white beaches and foam on the breaking surf. Why on earth are humans so stupid? Just because the people in The Northern Hemisphere probably "discovered" Christmas while freezing their buts off, really doesn't mean that the world need to dress in ridiculous Santa Suits and silly Elf Costumes. No wonder you humans love killing each other so much and my sympathy just slightly wanders to the latest killer in Cape Discovery and I honestly believe Santa was rather relieved to rather be dead in that heat.

Thank heavens for Kit and Pearl's "Guide to the Festive Season". I did take notes, comrades and next year I will tick that list with a very sharp claw.

Once again, we make new friends in Cape Discovery. Some of the human race, a bitzer (bits of Labrador, shepherd and who know what else) and even one with two legs, but two other distinctive bodily features. I'm not saying anything more.

Tessa and her man (who we still have our doubts about, sorry. Not sorry. We are entitled to our own cattish opinion) are finally a steady item and seeing that both Kit and Pearl appear to approve, I'll just sit here in the corner, eat my popcorn and wait for the scene to change. Tessa is also still working hard on her goal to become the modern day and much younger version of Jessica Fletcher. You go girl! Keep up the good work, we are rooting for you all the way!

Of course her two feline side-kicks are there to safe the day when the kitchen gets too hot and the dashing Detective Eric Mana are quickly on the scene to clear the whole mess up.

Slip-Stitched & Slayed is a welcome addition to the Knitty Kitty Mystery series and it was fun to celebrate Christmas with this crazy bunch of creatures.
Profile Image for Pat Plummer.
133 reviews
April 18, 2022
KITTIES AND BIRDS, OH MY!

Tessa, Harry, and friends start the Christmas season with a parade, that leaves one local dead. Soon, the body count grows and culminates with Tessa almost being the last fatality.

The story is fast paced, full of familiar characters, and gives great descriptions of the December holidays "down under". This was a terrific read and I recommend it highly. Also, I have a new appreciation for Slinkies.
Profile Image for Diane Adams.
1,212 reviews8 followers
December 31, 2023
Fifth in the series! A fun holiday read. Cozy murder mystery that does get a bit violent as the author looks for new ways to kill... My favorite parts usually involve the cats--though a new critter has moved into the apartment over the knitting shop. I hope there are more books coming--I feel as though there's a lot left to be resolved with regard to our heroine's love life! Listened to the audiobook--love the narrator.
89 reviews1 follower
December 8, 2021
This series just keeps getting better and better.
I was a fan of Tracey’s writing before she started this series. But now? Every time I finish a new book in this series I think it cannot get better, only to read the next book in the series to see that it actually is better than the last one.
I don’t know how she does it, but I really hope this will never end.
Profile Image for Staphysagria.
581 reviews4 followers
January 9, 2022
Our favourite sleuth is engaged in investigations again. As usual the secret stars of the book are Kit and Pearl. And you will reconnect with Detective Mana and Oliver. Enjoy a stare-off of the two guys right at the beginning. I was hoping for a bit more of a contest between those two, but, maybe in the next book...
139 reviews1 follower
January 14, 2022
Murder for Christmas

When A man is murdered on a float at the Christmas parade, Tessa is compelled to ask questions. With the help of Kit and Purl, not to mention a new addition to the family, a killer is brought to justice. Love the insight to holiday traditions in the Southern Hemisphere.
Profile Image for Carina.
1,906 reviews1 follower
April 29, 2023
Lordy this book was SHORT. I wonder if they've all been under 200 pages and I never noticed? Still I'm extra glad this didn't cost me anything.

I think as these books progress the crime element gets weaker and the fluff gets stronger. I still don't get Tessa and Oliver as a couple and I doubt I will should this get a sequel.
90 reviews1 follower
February 5, 2022
Super Entertaining

Ok, I love the characters and the way she writes makes you feel like your involved. Makes you want to be part of this crazy family. Always good and fun. Can't wait to read more from Ms. Drew.
93 reviews
February 23, 2022
Best of the bunch

I liked this book the most out if the 5 books. I hope there are more. Ms. Drew's stories are compelling and just the ticket for winding down after a stressful day.
1,500 reviews3 followers
March 21, 2022
Good read

The same quirky characters, lots of humor, two murders, and a wad of suspects. And loads of Christmas cheer. The author really knows how to hold your interest. Highly recommend.
115 reviews2 followers
March 25, 2022
Great Series!

This was one of the best Series I’ve read in a long time.I wish there were 20 more books in it.I would read them all.This one was my favorite book in the series.Please right more!
80 reviews
September 21, 2025
fun read

This series was a fun read for knitters and mystery lovers! Light reading and good writing also. I always find typos and grammatical errors so I wonder how editors miss these so often.
But a fun series to read.
498 reviews
January 3, 2022
Another winner in this series. Enjoyed the story, enjoyed the characters, and especially enjoyed the interaction.
474 reviews3 followers
May 24, 2022
Just another fun book about some murders, a yarn store, and two adorable but crazy cats. A fun cozy read!
Profile Image for Brian.
271 reviews2 followers
September 1, 2022
I have really been into the cozy mystery genre recently after bingeing on thrillers. This series has been great. There is a balance of investigation, side stories and a solid dose of humor. This book lived up to my expectations for this series and I really hope she writes more! It’s a fun read.
185 reviews5 followers
November 21, 2022
Love this series

Looking forward to the next book. The characters are growing in new ways. I enjoyed the parrot, Dwayne. Kit and Pearl's festive tips made me laugh out loud.
Profile Image for Bonnie Moore.
277 reviews4 followers
December 4, 2022
Animals and Murder

This is a first for me and this author. I really enjoyed this book. She has a way of keeping you guessing who the killer is
Profile Image for Christie Jacobsen.
585 reviews
January 7, 2023
I love this series! The narrators accent is fantastic! This story was cute with a twisty mystery- perfect light reading/listening.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews

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