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A Riverbank Knitting Mystery #3
It Came upon a Midnight Shear
A murder in her yarn shop’s backyard puts Libby Beckett’s holiday plans on thin ice.…
The holiday season looks merry and bright for Libby and her friends at Y.A.R.N. The store is expanding for a holiday boom, and she’s gathered Collinstown’s businesses to decorate a community Christmas tree. Dashing “Gallant Herdsman” Vincenzo Marani arrives to showcase the rare vicuña, whose coat produces the world’s most luxurious yarn. It’s a perfect yuletide—until Libby’s ex-husband, Sterling, turns up in town…and then turns up dead.
The murder unravels Libby’s life faster than a hand-knit Christmas stocking. The luxe yarn goes missing, Sterling’s domineering family comes to town, and the vicuña attempt an escape. If Libby can’t stitch up a solution to the case, she may be trading in her knitting needles for a set of handcuffs.
The holiday season looks merry and bright for Libby and her friends at Y.A.R.N. The store is expanding for a holiday boom, and she’s gathered Collinstown’s businesses to decorate a community Christmas tree. Dashing “Gallant Herdsman” Vincenzo Marani arrives to showcase the rare vicuña, whose coat produces the world’s most luxurious yarn. It’s a perfect yuletide—until Libby’s ex-husband, Sterling, turns up in town…and then turns up dead.
The murder unravels Libby’s life faster than a hand-knit Christmas stocking. The luxe yarn goes missing, Sterling’s domineering family comes to town, and the vicuña attempt an escape. If Libby can’t stitch up a solution to the case, she may be trading in her knitting needles for a set of handcuffs.
304 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published November 1, 2022
36 people are currently reading
515 people want to read
About the author
Allie Pleiter
121 books615 followersAn avid knitter, coffee junkie and firm believer that “pie makes everything better,” Allie Pleiter writes both fiction and non-fiction working on as many as four novels at a time. The bestselling author of over fifty books, Allie has enjoyed a twenty-year career with over 1.5 million books sold. In addition to writing, Allie maintains an active writing productivity coaching practice and speaks regularly on the creative process, publishing, and her very favorite topic—The Chunky Method of time management for writers. Visit her website at www.alliepleiter.com to learn more.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 89 reviews
November 18, 2022
I was really hoping to love this book. I just had a hard time connecting with the main character, Libby.
November 5, 2022
Dollycas’s Thoughts
It’s Christmastime in Collinstown and again the village is pulling out all the stops with businesses decorated with plenty of Christmas finery, a party to decorate the community Christmas tree, and Libby hosting the Dashing “Gallant Herdsman” Vincenzo Marani along with a few rare vicunas whose coats will be sheared by the “Gallant Herdsman” during the three-day event. Vicuña wool is the most luxurious fiber in modern times and it has a price to match.
Too bad Libby’s Scrooge of a husband has arrived in Collinstown when everything was going so well. Then to make matters worse he is found dead behind Libby’s Y.A.R.N. shop bringing the vicuna part of the festivities to an end. Adding more misery to Libby’s event the pricey vicuna yarn she had on display is being stolen ball by ball, the vicuna tries to make a break for it, and her ex-inlaws show up making all kinds of demands.
With herself and her guest Vincenzo Marani high on the suspect list it is time to knit and purl all the clues together as fast as they can because neither has the wish to spend the holidays behind bars,
This was such a fun read! Before I got too far into the story I had to research vicuna to learn more about them but then I quickly jumped right back into the story.
I love the way Libby has gotten so involved in the community, now being the president of the Chamber of Commerce but sadly when she brings guests in for an event at Y.A.R.N. something goes wrong. Her husband Sterling “a Grinch in Gucci loafers” arrives in town and she knows he has an agenda. I found him being the victim was very satisfying for me but I sure didn’t want Libby to be a suspect. She had so much on her plate. Thankfully the author has surrounded her with a great group of friends with distinct personalities.
The mysteries were very well-written and plotted. Libby wasn’t the only one who had a beef with Sterling so there was a wider pool of suspects than I imagined. Ms. Pleiter stitched up quite a story with plenty of twists to keep readers on our toes. I enjoyed every minute of trailing along with Libby to tie up the actual killer. As for the missing yarn I had several ideas but still didn’t nail down the guilty party before the end of the book when it was revealed.
I enjoy the way the author tells a story. Her descriptive style sets a scene so well. I could see each scene so clearly. The story had a nice pace, ebbing and flowing depending on what was happening. Some moments had me laughing out loud and others had me concentrating with determination to not miss an important clue.
Crafty cozies are some of my faves especially because I can live vicariously through the characters now that I can no longer do most crafts due to my hemiplegic status. I so love Y.A.R.N. “You’re Absolutely Ready Now” is the meaning Libby started with when opening her store and that her customers can now share their own personal words for the Y.A.R.N. abbreviation. If it was a real shop I can tell you I would spend a lot of time there. I would also love to experience the feel of that vicuna yarn.
It Came upon a Midnight Shear is my favorite book in this series so far. Libby is a wonderful protagonist and the people of Collinstown are interesting. The mysteries are unique and the setting is delightful. Plus it is always fun to learn something new. I am excited about the continuation of the Riverbank Knitting Mysteries. The series is best if read in order but each book can stand on its own.
It’s Christmastime in Collinstown and again the village is pulling out all the stops with businesses decorated with plenty of Christmas finery, a party to decorate the community Christmas tree, and Libby hosting the Dashing “Gallant Herdsman” Vincenzo Marani along with a few rare vicunas whose coats will be sheared by the “Gallant Herdsman” during the three-day event. Vicuña wool is the most luxurious fiber in modern times and it has a price to match.
Too bad Libby’s Scrooge of a husband has arrived in Collinstown when everything was going so well. Then to make matters worse he is found dead behind Libby’s Y.A.R.N. shop bringing the vicuna part of the festivities to an end. Adding more misery to Libby’s event the pricey vicuna yarn she had on display is being stolen ball by ball, the vicuna tries to make a break for it, and her ex-inlaws show up making all kinds of demands.
With herself and her guest Vincenzo Marani high on the suspect list it is time to knit and purl all the clues together as fast as they can because neither has the wish to spend the holidays behind bars,
This was such a fun read! Before I got too far into the story I had to research vicuna to learn more about them but then I quickly jumped right back into the story.
I love the way Libby has gotten so involved in the community, now being the president of the Chamber of Commerce but sadly when she brings guests in for an event at Y.A.R.N. something goes wrong. Her husband Sterling “a Grinch in Gucci loafers” arrives in town and she knows he has an agenda. I found him being the victim was very satisfying for me but I sure didn’t want Libby to be a suspect. She had so much on her plate. Thankfully the author has surrounded her with a great group of friends with distinct personalities.
The mysteries were very well-written and plotted. Libby wasn’t the only one who had a beef with Sterling so there was a wider pool of suspects than I imagined. Ms. Pleiter stitched up quite a story with plenty of twists to keep readers on our toes. I enjoyed every minute of trailing along with Libby to tie up the actual killer. As for the missing yarn I had several ideas but still didn’t nail down the guilty party before the end of the book when it was revealed.
I enjoy the way the author tells a story. Her descriptive style sets a scene so well. I could see each scene so clearly. The story had a nice pace, ebbing and flowing depending on what was happening. Some moments had me laughing out loud and others had me concentrating with determination to not miss an important clue.
Crafty cozies are some of my faves especially because I can live vicariously through the characters now that I can no longer do most crafts due to my hemiplegic status. I so love Y.A.R.N. “You’re Absolutely Ready Now” is the meaning Libby started with when opening her store and that her customers can now share their own personal words for the Y.A.R.N. abbreviation. If it was a real shop I can tell you I would spend a lot of time there. I would also love to experience the feel of that vicuna yarn.
It Came upon a Midnight Shear is my favorite book in this series so far. Libby is a wonderful protagonist and the people of Collinstown are interesting. The mysteries are unique and the setting is delightful. Plus it is always fun to learn something new. I am excited about the continuation of the Riverbank Knitting Mysteries. The series is best if read in order but each book can stand on its own.
January 1, 2023
I so love this cozy mystery series from Allie Pleiter! Each book just gets better and better, and It Came Upon a Midnight Shear is my fave so far. (If you’ve been following my reviews for a minute, you know that I have a habit of saying that about her contemporary romances, too… but it’s true. Each new book by her is a new fave of mine.) Seriously, though, all the ingredients that I look for in a Christmas cozy came together with ease in this book and had me completely immersed in the story & the characters.
Poor Libby. Every time she plans a ‘to die for’ special event at her knitting shop, fate seems to take that as a challenge – and wins. True to form, her dreams of a spectacular Christmas for her shop (courtesy of the Gallant Herdsman & his rare vicuña shearing) and for Collinstown (courtesy of her planned community tree decorating) die a tragic death … along with her ex-husband. This would have been the last straw for me, if I were in Libby’s knitted socks, but I have a feeling that she’s not done with creative events for her store. I love the way that Pleiter gives her protagonist a courageous spirit, a warm heart, and a resilient soul. She’s a strong character, as well as being intelligent, savvy and friendly. Were I a resident of Collinstown and were Y.A.R.N. a real shop, I would be hanging out in there every chance I got – even though I can’t knit to save my life.
The mystery in It Came Upon a Midnight Shear was very cleverly plotted, and it kept me guessing right up until the big reveal. A plethora of plausible suspects, lots of history to unpack amongst all the players, and skillfully developed clues – all of these elements definitely had me completely absorbed in solving the crime along with Libby, and I’m a bit embarrassed to admit that she got there before me this time. A rarity, given how many mysteries I read – and it makes me love this book even more. And – joy of joys – along with the Christmasy festive vibes and the stellar mystery (or two), the romance thread that’s been slowly brewing between Libby and her high school sweetheart Gavin takes a grin-inducing turn!
Bottom Line: It Came Upon a Midnight Shear has it all – delightfully-woven characters, a tightly-knitted mystery, a tangle of suspects, and threads of humor & heart & romance! Readers will love Libby and her Y.A.R.N. shop, Hank, Gavin, and all the other supporting players as well as Collinstown at Christmas. This whole series is fantastic, and this book is my fave so far! Can’t wait to tag along for Libby’s next event … from the safety of my Kindle.
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
first reviewed at Reading Is My SuperPower
Poor Libby. Every time she plans a ‘to die for’ special event at her knitting shop, fate seems to take that as a challenge – and wins. True to form, her dreams of a spectacular Christmas for her shop (courtesy of the Gallant Herdsman & his rare vicuña shearing) and for Collinstown (courtesy of her planned community tree decorating) die a tragic death … along with her ex-husband. This would have been the last straw for me, if I were in Libby’s knitted socks, but I have a feeling that she’s not done with creative events for her store. I love the way that Pleiter gives her protagonist a courageous spirit, a warm heart, and a resilient soul. She’s a strong character, as well as being intelligent, savvy and friendly. Were I a resident of Collinstown and were Y.A.R.N. a real shop, I would be hanging out in there every chance I got – even though I can’t knit to save my life.
The mystery in It Came Upon a Midnight Shear was very cleverly plotted, and it kept me guessing right up until the big reveal. A plethora of plausible suspects, lots of history to unpack amongst all the players, and skillfully developed clues – all of these elements definitely had me completely absorbed in solving the crime along with Libby, and I’m a bit embarrassed to admit that she got there before me this time. A rarity, given how many mysteries I read – and it makes me love this book even more. And – joy of joys – along with the Christmasy festive vibes and the stellar mystery (or two), the romance thread that’s been slowly brewing between Libby and her high school sweetheart Gavin takes a grin-inducing turn!
Bottom Line: It Came Upon a Midnight Shear has it all – delightfully-woven characters, a tightly-knitted mystery, a tangle of suspects, and threads of humor & heart & romance! Readers will love Libby and her Y.A.R.N. shop, Hank, Gavin, and all the other supporting players as well as Collinstown at Christmas. This whole series is fantastic, and this book is my fave so far! Can’t wait to tag along for Libby’s next event … from the safety of my Kindle.
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
first reviewed at Reading Is My SuperPower
December 14, 2022
I thoroughly enjoyed this mystery, not least of all because of how well Pleiter weaves together knitting, Christmas and a good mystery. The mystery is just tricky enough that it’s tough to solve on your own unless you’re paying close attention. And Christmas isn’t just layered on top. The mystery itself involves reindeer-evoking vicuña and lots of wintry-perfect snowy decorations. And it all ends with a truly heart-warming community celebration that captures the holiday spirit. Perfect holiday reading for a knitter and mystery lover.
December 20, 2022
It Came Upon a Midnight Shear by Allie Pleiter ( @alliepleiterauthor ) is the 3rd book in the Riverbank Knitting Mystery Series but absolutely can be read as a stand alone book. I’m not a big fan of reading out of order in a series. Mostly because I hate to miss even the tiniest detail that adds to the character and world building of the story. Yet I did read this before reading the first two books and I had no trouble getting into the world Allie has created.
As an avid knitter one of my favorite things about Allie’s writing is how she captures the inner workings of a knitters mind and how we knitter’s feel about the craft. This book was especially cozy to read as it’s set in the month of December and Collinstown is gearing up for holiday festivities. I love that Libby’s shop is named Y.A.R.N and it stands for You’re Absolutely Ready Now. I want to make that my motto for the new year 😆.
The book was well paced, the mystery good, plenty of twists and turns that by the end I was only solving the mystery right along with Libby! I can’t wait for the next book especially with what Libby has hinted at coming up for Y.A.R.N. Hint if you have been hanging around here with me for a while you know it’s one of my favorite things to knit 😜.
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Thank you @netgalley and @berkleypub for the ARC copy of this book. All thoughts are my own.
As an avid knitter one of my favorite things about Allie’s writing is how she captures the inner workings of a knitters mind and how we knitter’s feel about the craft. This book was especially cozy to read as it’s set in the month of December and Collinstown is gearing up for holiday festivities. I love that Libby’s shop is named Y.A.R.N and it stands for You’re Absolutely Ready Now. I want to make that my motto for the new year 😆.
The book was well paced, the mystery good, plenty of twists and turns that by the end I was only solving the mystery right along with Libby! I can’t wait for the next book especially with what Libby has hinted at coming up for Y.A.R.N. Hint if you have been hanging around here with me for a while you know it’s one of my favorite things to knit 😜.
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Thank you @netgalley and @berkleypub for the ARC copy of this book. All thoughts are my own.
November 8, 2022
Allie Pleiter welcomes readers back to Collinstown with holiday cheer, vicuna (which are renowned for their wool), Libby’s ex-husband, and a murder in It Came Upon a Midnight Shear.
From the first book in this series, I’ve wanted Libby to be my best friend. Sure, she’s curious and sometimes sticks her nose in where she shouldn’t. She’s also patient (well, except when it comes to Sterling and his family); loves her family, friends, and community; and welcomes people into her circle.
Throughout this series, Pleiter has grown with the mystery threads in each book and this one was by far my favorite. There are so many suspects with excellent motives and opportunity. There are two crimes somehow connected to the vacuna. And I did not see the reveal coming. Those are the stories that stick with me the most.
And I have one word for Libby’s relationship with Gavin…FINALLY! If this was the final book in the series, it wraps up well but can I just say I hope we get more of Libby, Gavin, and the rest of Collinstown?
Disclosure statement: I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book and was not required to write a positive or negative review. All opinions are my own.
From the first book in this series, I’ve wanted Libby to be my best friend. Sure, she’s curious and sometimes sticks her nose in where she shouldn’t. She’s also patient (well, except when it comes to Sterling and his family); loves her family, friends, and community; and welcomes people into her circle.
Throughout this series, Pleiter has grown with the mystery threads in each book and this one was by far my favorite. There are so many suspects with excellent motives and opportunity. There are two crimes somehow connected to the vacuna. And I did not see the reveal coming. Those are the stories that stick with me the most.
And I have one word for Libby’s relationship with Gavin…FINALLY! If this was the final book in the series, it wraps up well but can I just say I hope we get more of Libby, Gavin, and the rest of Collinstown?
Disclosure statement: I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book and was not required to write a positive or negative review. All opinions are my own.
November 28, 2023
Libby brings in a "gallant herdsman" and vicuna for a special event surrounding the ultra-expensive fiber. You know what that means. Murder.
This time, the victim is Libby's ex-husband. Since she uncharacteristically and unwisely threatened him just before his murder, she is a prime suspect. She's not the only one, of course. She sets about solving the crime as she has done in the past.
"It Came upon a Midnight Shear" delivers what readers expect from Allie Pleiter and her Riverbank Knitting Mystery series. The only "off" thing was Libby's going ballistic and threatening Sterling during her Y.A.R.N. event. Sure, it advanced the notion that Libby might have been the one to do the deed once he was found murdered. However, it was out of character for Libby and inappropriate behavior during an important yarn store event.
Hank, our favorite yarn store pooch, gets a new friend . . . and a close call. Somebody gets engaged. Somebody gets a boyfriend.
This time, the victim is Libby's ex-husband. Since she uncharacteristically and unwisely threatened him just before his murder, she is a prime suspect. She's not the only one, of course. She sets about solving the crime as she has done in the past.
"It Came upon a Midnight Shear" delivers what readers expect from Allie Pleiter and her Riverbank Knitting Mystery series. The only "off" thing was Libby's going ballistic and threatening Sterling during her Y.A.R.N. event. Sure, it advanced the notion that Libby might have been the one to do the deed once he was found murdered. However, it was out of character for Libby and inappropriate behavior during an important yarn store event.
Hank, our favorite yarn store pooch, gets a new friend . . . and a close call. Somebody gets engaged. Somebody gets a boyfriend.
November 22, 2022
This is my favorite so far because I am really sick of the ex-boyfriend always showing up in cozies and causing trouble so his murder meant we could end that relationship for good. The mystery was well paced and there was no way I was going to figure this one out. I loved the vicunas and learning about their yarn. This was an excellent addition to the series and I can’t wait to see what happens next.
January 5, 2024
My first “cozy mystery” read. Wouldn’t say the writing or plot were all that great, but the book deserves a 4 star rating just for the vibes; was a good book to unwind with during the holiday season while under a soft blanket and drinking a cup of tea.
October 2, 2024
I wanted to like this so much. The main character was so damn whiney in this entire thing. I loved the other 2 books in this series but this one fell absolutely flat.
February 9, 2025
A cozy mystery - as expected - a little bit of romance with a little bit of mystery. Perfect for when u need to take a break from heavier reading.
March 9, 2025
Allie Pleiter please write another book in this series!!
November 15, 2022
Libby Beckett is ready for Christmas. Living in Collinstown, running her Y.A.R.N. shop, and working hard as the president of the Chamber of Commerce, she has planned the holidays for her shop and for the town with detail and panache. There will be a 20 foot Christmas tree, and everyone from town will hand the ornaments to each other down the street to decorate it. Everyone’s decorations are on point. And she even set up a once-in-a-lifetime event for her store.
The Gallant Herdsman, Vincenzo Marani, has brought four vicuña to the shop, and he will be shearing them for an audience. They are graceful animals, and their soft fur is only sheared once every three years, so the yarn that is spun from it is the most luxurious and most expensive in the world. Vincenzo, whose family is known for their fashion house, has turned his charitable efforts into keeping the vicuña safe from extinction and educating people on them. But he is also the epitome of handsome elegance, and Libby can’t stop herself from admiring his gallantry.
Vincenzo has brought four vicuña to Collinstown, and Libby has sold out events for knitters and others to watch him shear the animals. Libby is thrilled that he had chosen her yarn shop over all the others that had applied, but when an old friend from college shows up, Libby has some misgivings about it. She had forgotten that Vincenzo was friends with her ex-husband Sterling. And now Sterling has shown up in town, and Libby is angry.
Sterling had been calling her, trying to adjust their financial arrangement, since her store seems to be doing so well. He had grown up with old money, and he runs the family’s successful pharmaceutical company, so he has the resources. Libby had decided not to bend on their agreement, whether she needed the money or not. It had given her the chance to open her store. And when Sterling tries to talk to her about it, she tells him—actually, yells at him—that she has no intention of changing her mind and that she would be happier if he were out of her life. She can’t deny that. Half of the town heard her yell it to his face, before she realized what she was doing and calmed herself down.
But when Libby is awakened the next morning by the chief of police pounding on her door, she is stunned to find out that Sterling had been murdered. He had been stabbed by the shears Vincenzo had used to shear the first vicuña earlier that evening. Libby’s very public fight with Sterling makes her a prime suspect. The murder weapon makes Vincenzo a prime suspect too. But will Libby and her friends be able to figure out which of Sterling’s many enemies was the one who cut his time short before she’s the one who is arrested for his death?
It Came Upon a Midnight Shear is the third book in Allie Pleiter’s Riverbank Knitting Mystery series. These books knit together compelling characters with small town shenanigans that (despite the sketchy murder rate) make me want to pull up a chair in the yarn shop and crochet until all my problems dissolve. (Sorry, I’m not a knitter, but I feel like I would be accepted in Y.A.R.N. anyway).
I love how Pleiter can blend some humor and light flirting into these murder mysteries. It Came Upon a Midnight Shear is smart and well-plotted, with lots of twists and interesting surprises. The writing is smooth, like a silky yarn, and the pattern slowly comes together as the chapters unravel. The intricate beauty of knitting is a strong metaphor for how Pleiter writes, and I appreciate just how artfully she manages to make her stories. And I loved how she worked in the vicuña, adding texture to the story and helping educate readers about their value, their lifestyle, and their propensity to spit.
Egalleys for It Came Upon a Midnight Clear were provided by Berkley Publishing Group through NetGalley, with many thanks.
The Gallant Herdsman, Vincenzo Marani, has brought four vicuña to the shop, and he will be shearing them for an audience. They are graceful animals, and their soft fur is only sheared once every three years, so the yarn that is spun from it is the most luxurious and most expensive in the world. Vincenzo, whose family is known for their fashion house, has turned his charitable efforts into keeping the vicuña safe from extinction and educating people on them. But he is also the epitome of handsome elegance, and Libby can’t stop herself from admiring his gallantry.
Vincenzo has brought four vicuña to Collinstown, and Libby has sold out events for knitters and others to watch him shear the animals. Libby is thrilled that he had chosen her yarn shop over all the others that had applied, but when an old friend from college shows up, Libby has some misgivings about it. She had forgotten that Vincenzo was friends with her ex-husband Sterling. And now Sterling has shown up in town, and Libby is angry.
Sterling had been calling her, trying to adjust their financial arrangement, since her store seems to be doing so well. He had grown up with old money, and he runs the family’s successful pharmaceutical company, so he has the resources. Libby had decided not to bend on their agreement, whether she needed the money or not. It had given her the chance to open her store. And when Sterling tries to talk to her about it, she tells him—actually, yells at him—that she has no intention of changing her mind and that she would be happier if he were out of her life. She can’t deny that. Half of the town heard her yell it to his face, before she realized what she was doing and calmed herself down.
But when Libby is awakened the next morning by the chief of police pounding on her door, she is stunned to find out that Sterling had been murdered. He had been stabbed by the shears Vincenzo had used to shear the first vicuña earlier that evening. Libby’s very public fight with Sterling makes her a prime suspect. The murder weapon makes Vincenzo a prime suspect too. But will Libby and her friends be able to figure out which of Sterling’s many enemies was the one who cut his time short before she’s the one who is arrested for his death?
It Came Upon a Midnight Shear is the third book in Allie Pleiter’s Riverbank Knitting Mystery series. These books knit together compelling characters with small town shenanigans that (despite the sketchy murder rate) make me want to pull up a chair in the yarn shop and crochet until all my problems dissolve. (Sorry, I’m not a knitter, but I feel like I would be accepted in Y.A.R.N. anyway).
I love how Pleiter can blend some humor and light flirting into these murder mysteries. It Came Upon a Midnight Shear is smart and well-plotted, with lots of twists and interesting surprises. The writing is smooth, like a silky yarn, and the pattern slowly comes together as the chapters unravel. The intricate beauty of knitting is a strong metaphor for how Pleiter writes, and I appreciate just how artfully she manages to make her stories. And I loved how she worked in the vicuña, adding texture to the story and helping educate readers about their value, their lifestyle, and their propensity to spit.
Egalleys for It Came Upon a Midnight Clear were provided by Berkley Publishing Group through NetGalley, with many thanks.
December 18, 2022
It Came upon a Midnight Shear, the third book in Allie Pleiter’s Riverbank Knitting mysteries, spins a delightful tale that is bound to charm cozy (and knitting) aficionados everywhere.
It is Christmas season, and Libby Beckett and the rest of the Collinstown merchants are gearing up to decorate the town and the community Christmas tree. To further the celebration, Libby has arranged for Vincenzo Marani to highlight vicuña yarn, rumored to be the finest fiber on earth. The plan is for Vicenzo to demonstrate the tri-annual shearing of the vicuña at Y.A.R.N. But the celebration is marred by the appearance – and later death – of Libby’s ex-husband, Sterling, who, it turns out has had several nefarious business dealings with the locals and with Vincenzo as well. Suspects, including Libby herself, abound, and before she knows it, Libby is entangled in the investigation.
I have really come to appreciate this series. Not only is it a terrific cozy, complete with charming characters, a picturesque hometown, and a well-crafted mystery, but I find I am always learning something new. In It Came upon a Midnight Clear, I was introduced to the vicuña. Not being a knitter myself, I had never heard of vicuña yarn before, so I looked it up and found that the vicuña is the national animal of Peru. And yes, its fleece is so rare because it only gets sheared every three years.
As with the other books in this series, the jewels of this story are its characters. Libby is charismatic and clever, and Mayor Gavin is a man of principle, with a more than a dash of humanity. His daughter, Jillian, represent the best of today’s teenagers, with a kindly manner and an inquisitive nature. The mystery, too, is complex and layered. More than a linear whodunnit, it weaves its way around clues and red herrings, culminating in a resolution that is at once suspenseful and satisfying.
It Came Upon a Midnight Shear is definitely worth the read, and the audio version, narrated by Brittany Pressley, is likewise top notch. I am looking forward to my next visit to Collinstown.
It is Christmas season, and Libby Beckett and the rest of the Collinstown merchants are gearing up to decorate the town and the community Christmas tree. To further the celebration, Libby has arranged for Vincenzo Marani to highlight vicuña yarn, rumored to be the finest fiber on earth. The plan is for Vicenzo to demonstrate the tri-annual shearing of the vicuña at Y.A.R.N. But the celebration is marred by the appearance – and later death – of Libby’s ex-husband, Sterling, who, it turns out has had several nefarious business dealings with the locals and with Vincenzo as well. Suspects, including Libby herself, abound, and before she knows it, Libby is entangled in the investigation.
I have really come to appreciate this series. Not only is it a terrific cozy, complete with charming characters, a picturesque hometown, and a well-crafted mystery, but I find I am always learning something new. In It Came upon a Midnight Clear, I was introduced to the vicuña. Not being a knitter myself, I had never heard of vicuña yarn before, so I looked it up and found that the vicuña is the national animal of Peru. And yes, its fleece is so rare because it only gets sheared every three years.
As with the other books in this series, the jewels of this story are its characters. Libby is charismatic and clever, and Mayor Gavin is a man of principle, with a more than a dash of humanity. His daughter, Jillian, represent the best of today’s teenagers, with a kindly manner and an inquisitive nature. The mystery, too, is complex and layered. More than a linear whodunnit, it weaves its way around clues and red herrings, culminating in a resolution that is at once suspenseful and satisfying.
It Came Upon a Midnight Shear is definitely worth the read, and the audio version, narrated by Brittany Pressley, is likewise top notch. I am looking forward to my next visit to Collinstown.
October 3, 2022
It Came Upon a Midnight Shear is the third installment in Allie Pleiter's Riverbank Knitting Mystery series, and it ended up being my favorite of the three. I expected to enjoy this one, as cozy mysteries with a Christmas setting are usually my favorite, but it ended up far surpassing my expectations.
It was wonderful to get another visit to Collinstown, and get a first hand view to how all the residents were preparing for the approaching holiday season. Of course it wouldn't be a visit to Collinstown without Libby finding herself in the midst of another murder mystery, and this time it hits even closer to home when the murder is of none other than Libby's ex-husband Sterling. I have to say that I was quite surprised that the author chose to go that direction with the murder, but it added an extra depth to the story as the reader finally gets more information on what caused their marriage to break down, and gets a first hand look at the strained relationship that exists between Libby and the rest of Sterling's family.
I loved the addition of the Vicuna and the "Gallant Herdsman", as I've never heard of this animal before, and I loved discovering the tidbits about how sought after their wool has become for knitting enthusiasts. I don't often feel like I walk away from cozy mysteries having "learned" new things, so that was a fun surprise, and definitely aided my enjoyment of an already great story.
Overall, this was a wonderful cozy mystery with a charming setting, quirky characters, a well rounded plot, and a mystery that kept me guessing right through until the end. I found myself engaged with the story right from the get go, and I didn't want to put it down once I started. I was content with how everything wrapped up, and I hope there's going to be more to come from this series in the future.
Definitely check this one out if you're a fan of cozy mysteries.
Final Rating: 5/5.
Thanks so much to the author and Berkley Books for allowing me to advance read and review this one!
I voluntarily read and reviewed a complimentary advance reader copy of this novel from the publisher (Berkely Books) and the author (Allie Pleiter) via NetGalley as part of her street team. I was not required to give a positive review. All thoughts and opinions are my own, and this is my honest review.
It was wonderful to get another visit to Collinstown, and get a first hand view to how all the residents were preparing for the approaching holiday season. Of course it wouldn't be a visit to Collinstown without Libby finding herself in the midst of another murder mystery, and this time it hits even closer to home when the murder is of none other than Libby's ex-husband Sterling. I have to say that I was quite surprised that the author chose to go that direction with the murder, but it added an extra depth to the story as the reader finally gets more information on what caused their marriage to break down, and gets a first hand look at the strained relationship that exists between Libby and the rest of Sterling's family.
I loved the addition of the Vicuna and the "Gallant Herdsman", as I've never heard of this animal before, and I loved discovering the tidbits about how sought after their wool has become for knitting enthusiasts. I don't often feel like I walk away from cozy mysteries having "learned" new things, so that was a fun surprise, and definitely aided my enjoyment of an already great story.
Overall, this was a wonderful cozy mystery with a charming setting, quirky characters, a well rounded plot, and a mystery that kept me guessing right through until the end. I found myself engaged with the story right from the get go, and I didn't want to put it down once I started. I was content with how everything wrapped up, and I hope there's going to be more to come from this series in the future.
Definitely check this one out if you're a fan of cozy mysteries.
Final Rating: 5/5.
Thanks so much to the author and Berkley Books for allowing me to advance read and review this one!
I voluntarily read and reviewed a complimentary advance reader copy of this novel from the publisher (Berkely Books) and the author (Allie Pleiter) via NetGalley as part of her street team. I was not required to give a positive review. All thoughts and opinions are my own, and this is my honest review.
October 12, 2022
I've been loving this series and this third installment lived up to my high expectations. The Christmastime setting was so cozy and inviting. Collinstown during the holidays would be a sight to see! And I really liked the vicuna. I didn't know much about them, so they were a neat addition to the story.
The mystery was great. It definitely kept me guessing. Libby's ex-husband Sterling stops by her shop and the next day, he's found dead. The day before he was murdered, Libby got into a pretty heated, and very public, argument with him. So, despite her high standing in the community, she's the prime suspect. But Sterling was a dislikable man with a lot of enemies. I usually have a strong inclination as to who the guilty party is, but that wasn't the case here. I was stumped. Every suspect had plenty of motive to do the deed. I couldn't narrow it down. When the reveal came, I was shocked! I didn't see that coming at all, but it made perfect sense.
I can't recommend this highly enough. This is one of my favorite cozy mystery series, so I hope there are many more cases to solve alongside Libby.
I received an advanced copy of this book and voluntarily reviewed it. All thoughts and comments are my honest opinion.
The mystery was great. It definitely kept me guessing. Libby's ex-husband Sterling stops by her shop and the next day, he's found dead. The day before he was murdered, Libby got into a pretty heated, and very public, argument with him. So, despite her high standing in the community, she's the prime suspect. But Sterling was a dislikable man with a lot of enemies. I usually have a strong inclination as to who the guilty party is, but that wasn't the case here. I was stumped. Every suspect had plenty of motive to do the deed. I couldn't narrow it down. When the reveal came, I was shocked! I didn't see that coming at all, but it made perfect sense.
I can't recommend this highly enough. This is one of my favorite cozy mystery series, so I hope there are many more cases to solve alongside Libby.
I received an advanced copy of this book and voluntarily reviewed it. All thoughts and comments are my honest opinion.
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January 21, 2023This was a nice cozy mystery. It appears the main character Libby and others in the city of Collinstown have appeared in previous mysteries written by Allie Pleiter. In this one, it’s the Christmas season and all should be” merry and bright”, but there is a murder. Since Libby’s ex- husband Sterling is the victim, she is under suspicion as well as others with ties to him. In addition there are some puzzling thefts in Libby’s yarn shop. I tried to puzzle out who the murderer might be as I read but have to admit I was surprised when this was revealed.
There’s naturally some romance in this cozy mystery and a nice ending. After all, it is a Christmas cozy. Readers will find a pleasant read here. I thank author Allie Pleiter for my copy of IT CAME UPON a MAiDNIGHT SHEAR.
There’s naturally some romance in this cozy mystery and a nice ending. After all, it is a Christmas cozy. Readers will find a pleasant read here. I thank author Allie Pleiter for my copy of IT CAME UPON a MAiDNIGHT SHEAR.
November 10, 2022
This book is the 3rd book in the series, but could be read as a standalone. I would recommend that the books be read in order to get the full picture of what Collinstown is like and what has transpired in the past. I found the book to be well written. As soon as they found the body, I thought "I think 'X' did it." and I was correct. I didn't figure out the why until right before it was revealed in the book. This is not a Christian book (at one point they mention that 'God or Mother Nature did a good job of creating-whichever you believe in"), but it is clean.
I got a free copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own and given voluntarily. No compensation was received for my review.
I got a free copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own and given voluntarily. No compensation was received for my review.
December 13, 2022
It Came upon…
A holiday cheer and a murder are crafted together in this cozy mystery that you’ll definitely enjoy reading!
“Stab. The word hit me hard. My ex-husband had been stabbed with shearing clippers at my shop, perhaps by my VIP guest. But as I looked around me at the faces of those nearby, one thing became frighteningly clear: several people thought perhaps by me.”
I received an ARC of this book for review. I was not required to write a favorable review. All opinions in this review are my own.
A holiday cheer and a murder are crafted together in this cozy mystery that you’ll definitely enjoy reading!
“Stab. The word hit me hard. My ex-husband had been stabbed with shearing clippers at my shop, perhaps by my VIP guest. But as I looked around me at the faces of those nearby, one thing became frighteningly clear: several people thought perhaps by me.”
I received an ARC of this book for review. I was not required to write a favorable review. All opinions in this review are my own.
December 29, 2022
4.5 stars
Great book, easy holiday read. A great way to close out my 2022 reading.
It Came Upon a Midnight Shear is a well-written cozy mystery that has me curious about checking out the previous two books in the series. This book can be read as a standalone; I did not feel lost jumping in at book #3. If you enjoy knitting, small towns, and cozy holiday vibes I definitely recommend checking this one out. Could have easily been read in a day or two.
Great book, easy holiday read. A great way to close out my 2022 reading.
It Came Upon a Midnight Shear is a well-written cozy mystery that has me curious about checking out the previous two books in the series. This book can be read as a standalone; I did not feel lost jumping in at book #3. If you enjoy knitting, small towns, and cozy holiday vibes I definitely recommend checking this one out. Could have easily been read in a day or two.
January 7, 2023
Great story!! I received this as a Christmas gift and as I love knitting and mysteries, it was the perfect story!! The writing is entertaining and the storyline easy to follow and get involved in. My only “complaint” — more details on any pattern mentioned! Lol!!! Enjoy this wonderful book and Knit On.
February 12, 2023
This is a fun escape. Libby owns a yarn stored called Y.A.R.N. She is also the person on the council to promote the city. She has planned an event for her store. Vicuna's wool is very soft and can bee spun into very expensive yarn. An old acquaintance of her ex-husband has decided to bring a small group of Vicuna to her store and shear them. She also has a small batch of yarn. First, her ex shows up and tried to take credit for the idea and success of the event. She lays into him in public. When he is found dead, she becomes a prime suspect. Then balls of the Vicuna yarn starts to disappear. Can she trust Vincenzo the old friend, is it her ex's crazy sister? Who killed Sterling?
This is very entertaining and it was interesting to learn about the Vicuna and the yarn. The writing style is easy-to-read and the story moves along. The characters are likeable. I would read another book in this series.
This is very entertaining and it was interesting to learn about the Vicuna and the yarn. The writing style is easy-to-read and the story moves along. The characters are likeable. I would read another book in this series.
December 22, 2022
A cute Christmas cozy! Everyone is excited at YARN, as the holidays approach and Libby has a great demonstration planned with rare vicuna and their very valuable fleece. Everything is going famously until her ex shows up and they get into a shouting match, when he shows up the next morning, dead behind her shop, Libby finds herself a suspect, which really puts a damper on her holidays and her position as Chamber of Commerce president. It's definitely worth hanging around to see if Libby can get everything straighten out in order to enjoy her Christmas!
January 7, 2023
Ah! This book starts with " Those eyes. They were heart-stoppers." I liked the beginning, the end, and everything in between! I also liked learning about the yarn from the vicuna!
January 22, 2023
Funny good people and a surprise or two good guys.
December 13, 2022
Such a fun series! I hope there's another in the works!
December 15, 2025
It's always fun to read a christmassy yarny mystery this time of year.
December 3, 2022
Yarn shop owner Libby Beckett returns for a third delightful mystery. The only thing that isn't delightful is the gruesome murder scene involving her odious dead ex-husband; however, readers familiar with the series will likely not shed too many tears over his demise. Unlike the two previous books, Libby cannot involve herself too much in the case, since she's now a "person of interest." Some entertaining elements include a visit from the "Gallant Herdsman" who is shearing vicunas as a way to advertise his yarn, and more of the will-they-won't-they for Libby and her former high school sweetheart, Mayor Gavin. This can be read as a standalone and will certainly put readers in the holiday spirit!
Given by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Given by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
December 11, 2023
I very much enjoyed this story. It was exactly what I was hoping for — a campy, cozy book that had mystery and knitting. It even has a knitting pattern at the end! I’m now very curious what vicuña fiber feels like, but sadly don’t think I’ll be able to afford it… A very pleasant mystery.
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