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Irish Village Mystery #8.5
Christmas Scarf Murder
Stocking stuffers like handknit scarves make the coziest of Christmas gifts—unless they’re used as accessories for murder!
CHRISTMAS SCARF MURDER by CARLENE O’CONNOR
When grinchy thefts steal the good cheer at a local nursing home, Siobhan O’Sullivan manages to identify one missing item before Kilbane, Ireland’s Christmas tractor parade—a hideous shamrock scarf wrapped around a very dead body. Now, with her holiday farmhouse bash approaching, Siobhan must dash to stop a deadly Secret Santa from gifting another unwanted surprise.
SCARFED DOWN by MADDIE DAY
It’s beginning to taste a lot like Christmas at Pans ‘N Pancakes, as twelve days of menu specials dazzle hungry locals. But the festivities go cold the instant a diner dies while knitting a brilliant green scarf. With Aunt Adele tied into a murder investigation, it’s all on Robbie Jordan to find out who’s really been naughty or nice in South Lick, Indiana.
DEATH BY CHRISTMAS SCARF by PEGGY EHRHART
Suspects pile up faster than New Jersey snow when frosty-tempered Carys Walnutt is found strangled by a handmade scarf auctioned at Arborville’s tree-lighting ceremony. Between a winning bidder hiding behind the alias “S. Claws” and a victim who deserved coal in her stocking, can Pamela Paterson and the crafty Knit and Nibble ladies freeze a killer’s merry murder plot?
CHRISTMAS SCARF MURDER by CARLENE O’CONNOR
When grinchy thefts steal the good cheer at a local nursing home, Siobhan O’Sullivan manages to identify one missing item before Kilbane, Ireland’s Christmas tractor parade—a hideous shamrock scarf wrapped around a very dead body. Now, with her holiday farmhouse bash approaching, Siobhan must dash to stop a deadly Secret Santa from gifting another unwanted surprise.
SCARFED DOWN by MADDIE DAY
It’s beginning to taste a lot like Christmas at Pans ‘N Pancakes, as twelve days of menu specials dazzle hungry locals. But the festivities go cold the instant a diner dies while knitting a brilliant green scarf. With Aunt Adele tied into a murder investigation, it’s all on Robbie Jordan to find out who’s really been naughty or nice in South Lick, Indiana.
DEATH BY CHRISTMAS SCARF by PEGGY EHRHART
Suspects pile up faster than New Jersey snow when frosty-tempered Carys Walnutt is found strangled by a handmade scarf auctioned at Arborville’s tree-lighting ceremony. Between a winning bidder hiding behind the alias “S. Claws” and a victim who deserved coal in her stocking, can Pamela Paterson and the crafty Knit and Nibble ladies freeze a killer’s merry murder plot?
351 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 27, 2022
271 people are currently reading
2647 people want to read
About the author
Carlene O'Connor
35 books2,579 followersCarlene O’Connor is the USA Today Bestselling author of The Irish Village Mystery Series, The Home to Ireland Series and the County Kerry Mystery series. The first in the County Kerry Series, NO STRANGERS HERE received a starred review from Kirkus and was the Mystery Pick of the Month at Barnes and Noble in September of 2023. Of all the places across the pond she’s wandered, she fell most in love with a walled town in County Limerick and was inspired to create the town of Kilbane, County Cork. She currently lives in New Mexico.
https://carleneoconnor.net/
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 206 reviews
August 16, 2025
Christmas Scarf Murder is a collection of three novels from different authors. I only read the Maddie Day installment as I haven't read the other authors' work yet, and I need to read them in order. I'll come back and add to this review when I read them. Maddie Day always delights, and her Country Store Mysteries set in Indiana make me laugh. It's Christmas time, and Robbie and gang are baking up lunches based on the Twelve Days of Christmas (just like in my latest Christmas novel where my protagonist buys gifts for his wife based on the same theme). A trio of knitters show up a few times, and then one dies, poisoned by the dye in the wool -- made by Robbie's aunt. Whodunit? A good story, keeps me close to the main series, and I am excited for the 2023 release again.
July 28, 2022
Christmas Scarf Murder was a fun easy read. I have read this series from the beginning and enjoy the characters that consist of the O'Sullivan family. Sioblan O'Sullivan is the main character and is a Garda. She and her husband Detective Sergeant Macdora Flannery are newlyweds who live in a farmhouse in the town of Kilbane, Ireland. Their are going to have their first Christmas holiday together along with her siblings.
Macdora gets a phone call about a robbery at the Kilbane Elder Care Home for the wealthy seniors. There were only five people who were staying at the home for Christmas. Sioblan and Maddora go to the home to find out what has happened.. The objects that were stolen were emeralds, money, a cane, a statue of the Virgin Mary and a very long Christmas scarf. They meet with Cathal Ryan the director of the home and Nancy Martin front office manager. There are 12 residents and 15 staff members. There are four teen volunteers, Shane Boyd, Michael Walsh with his dog, Max, Bonnie Murphy and Flynn Doyle whose grandmother lives at the home. She is the one whose emeralds were stolen. In looking into the robbery Sioblan and Macdora are told by the director that strange things had happened when they were at the Christmas Market the day before. This is where the story takes off with the killing of Michael Walsh who was on a tractor preparing for the annual tractor parade. The long scarf that was stolen was wrapped around his neck.. Michael was visiting from Monagham and was invited by Shane and Finn to come for a visit.
I don't want to ruin the story for the reader. so I will leave the surprising warm ending for them to enjoy.
Thank you NetGalley and Kensington Publishing Corp. for this ARC.
Macdora gets a phone call about a robbery at the Kilbane Elder Care Home for the wealthy seniors. There were only five people who were staying at the home for Christmas. Sioblan and Maddora go to the home to find out what has happened.. The objects that were stolen were emeralds, money, a cane, a statue of the Virgin Mary and a very long Christmas scarf. They meet with Cathal Ryan the director of the home and Nancy Martin front office manager. There are 12 residents and 15 staff members. There are four teen volunteers, Shane Boyd, Michael Walsh with his dog, Max, Bonnie Murphy and Flynn Doyle whose grandmother lives at the home. She is the one whose emeralds were stolen. In looking into the robbery Sioblan and Macdora are told by the director that strange things had happened when they were at the Christmas Market the day before. This is where the story takes off with the killing of Michael Walsh who was on a tractor preparing for the annual tractor parade. The long scarf that was stolen was wrapped around his neck.. Michael was visiting from Monagham and was invited by Shane and Finn to come for a visit.
I don't want to ruin the story for the reader. so I will leave the surprising warm ending for them to enjoy.
Thank you NetGalley and Kensington Publishing Corp. for this ARC.
July 5, 2022
Christmas Scarf Murderby Carlene O'Connor; Maddie Day; Peggy Ehrhart is an excellent collection of three novellas with the overarching theme of the classic Christmas scarf. I just loved it.
I always read the books of three novellas that are themed that Kensington has published through the years. If they haven’t already included stories written by my favorite authors involving my favorite series, then they include someone new…and that is how I find new books to enjoy!
This book contains three cozy mystery stories that really got me into the holiday spirit:
Christmas Scarf Murder by Carlene O’Connor is a part of the amazing Irish Village Mystery series. I have read all 8 books and the previous novella. I just love this series amd highly recommend it. Especially for anyone that loves their cozy mysteries set in Ireland.
The Unfinished Scarf by Maddie Day is part of the wonderful Country Store Mystery series set in rural Indiana. I have also read all 10 books and previous novella. I just series and highly recommend it as well. The only negative is that you will definitely want pancakes or waffles after reading.
Death By Christmas Scarf by Peggy Ehrhart was a new one for me and part of the A Knit & Nibble Mystery series. I had been meaning to start this one, so this was a great jumping off point. I will now start with book One.
Highly recommend.
5/5 stars
Thank you NG and Kensington Publishing for this wonderful arc and in return I am submitting my unbiased and voluntary review and opinion.
I am posting this review to my GR and Bookbub accounts immediately and will post it to my Amazon, Instagram, and B&N accounts upon publication on 9/27/22.
I always read the books of three novellas that are themed that Kensington has published through the years. If they haven’t already included stories written by my favorite authors involving my favorite series, then they include someone new…and that is how I find new books to enjoy!
This book contains three cozy mystery stories that really got me into the holiday spirit:
Christmas Scarf Murder by Carlene O’Connor is a part of the amazing Irish Village Mystery series. I have read all 8 books and the previous novella. I just love this series amd highly recommend it. Especially for anyone that loves their cozy mysteries set in Ireland.
The Unfinished Scarf by Maddie Day is part of the wonderful Country Store Mystery series set in rural Indiana. I have also read all 10 books and previous novella. I just series and highly recommend it as well. The only negative is that you will definitely want pancakes or waffles after reading.
Death By Christmas Scarf by Peggy Ehrhart was a new one for me and part of the A Knit & Nibble Mystery series. I had been meaning to start this one, so this was a great jumping off point. I will now start with book One.
Highly recommend.
5/5 stars
Thank you NG and Kensington Publishing for this wonderful arc and in return I am submitting my unbiased and voluntary review and opinion.
I am posting this review to my GR and Bookbub accounts immediately and will post it to my Amazon, Instagram, and B&N accounts upon publication on 9/27/22.
November 7, 2022
I love when cozy authors get together and put out a collection of novellas that continue their current series. It's an excellent way to get to know new authors and their characters or just to get a fun taste of a series that you already love! In this particular collection, all the authors used a Christmas scarf as the murder weapon and then wove their unique and individual story around a Christmas themed murder. I was thrilled that Carlene O'Connor had an entry that continued with her Irish Village Mystery series that is set in County Cork, Ireland. If you haven't yet met the O'Sullivan brood this is a great series and should be on your must-read list. Then Maddie Day had her Country Store series set in Southern Indiana. Again, this is a must-read series on my list as the characters are diverse, unique and like the best friends you can't wait to catch up with. The last story was from Peggy Ehrhart with an installment from her Knits & nibble series set in New Jersey. This a completely new series to me, but I am happy to report that there are now 9 books in the series and I can't wait to start binge reading or listening to this one! I absolutely love Pamela and her best friend. I would love to have a fun knitter's group like theirs to join! In the short span of time, I traveled from Ireland to Indiana and ended in New Jersey sometimes with characters that I dearly love and ending with a new author to add to my favorites list! You should totally pick up this collection and get introduced to new characters then go find the entire series. If you already follow these authors' and their series then this is a great way to get just a small bit more while you wait for their next full length book!
July 10, 2022
Christmas Scarf Murder is s compilation of three fun, holiday themed cozy mysteries, by three of my favorite authors.
In the first story, Siobhan and her husband Macdara are preparing for the holidays, but an odd and tragic death have both of them trying find the perpetrator before Christmas Eve.
The second story features Robbi Jordan and her husband Abe, who are actively trying to find out a member of the local knitting group.
The third story features Pam Paterson, her daughter Penny, and Pam's best friend Bettina.
A strange murder takes place and Pam and Bettina can't help getting involved, enlisting the help of their knitting group friends.
All three of these stories were well done, and I enjoyed reading all of them.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for selecting me to read an advanced copy of the book.
#ChristmasScarfMurder #NetGalley
In the first story, Siobhan and her husband Macdara are preparing for the holidays, but an odd and tragic death have both of them trying find the perpetrator before Christmas Eve.
The second story features Robbi Jordan and her husband Abe, who are actively trying to find out a member of the local knitting group.
The third story features Pam Paterson, her daughter Penny, and Pam's best friend Bettina.
A strange murder takes place and Pam and Bettina can't help getting involved, enlisting the help of their knitting group friends.
All three of these stories were well done, and I enjoyed reading all of them.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for selecting me to read an advanced copy of the book.
#ChristmasScarfMurder #NetGalley
February 10, 2024
This is a fun collection of Christmas Cozy Novellas. Each story is written by a different author and each story is written around a Christmas scarf. I enjoyed reading each of the novellas. All three stories are well written and we get to know little more about our favorite characters from some great cozy mystery series. If you like holiday cozies or any of the authors and their series this is a great book for you.
All thoughts and opinions are my own, I have not been influenced by anyone.
All thoughts and opinions are my own, I have not been influenced by anyone.
October 31, 2022
This is a collection of three entertaining cozy novellas that all revolve around a Christmas scarf and a murder. It is perfect for mystery fans and fans of holiday fiction.
I received a free copy of this book from the publishers. My review is voluntary and the opinions expressed are my own.
I received a free copy of this book from the publishers. My review is voluntary and the opinions expressed are my own.
September 17, 2022
The book Christmas Scarf Murder includes three novellas by three different authors, Carlene O'Connor, Maddie Day, and Peggy Ehrhart. Each story involves amateur sleuths solving a murder with a Christmas scarf as the murder weapon. The novellas feature main characters from each of the author's full-length novels. Anyone who already follows these series will enjoy catching up with favorite characters, but the stories are a great introduction for new readers. Looking at the collection as a whole, I would rate it 4.5 stars.
Carlene O'Connor's story, Christmas Scarf Murder, is the first in the book. It features Garda Siobhan O'Sullivan and her husband DS Macdora Flannery, investigating a series of thefts at an elder care home and then a murder. There are a lot of suspects and a fairly lengthy investigation, especially for a short story. The scenes at the care home were very enjoyable, and the story's sweet ending is perfect for a holiday story.
The second story, Scarfed Down by Maddie Day, has restaurant owner Robbie Jordan investigating the death of a knitter using yarn supplied by her aunt. The way the murder is commited is clever and sets up an intriguing mystery. I like Robbie and really enjoyed the great mother/son relationship she has with her stepson Sean. I didn't care for some of the side characters, and the way the accents of some of the characters were written was distracting. Overall, it is an entertaining story.
In my opinion, they saved the best for last. Peggy Ehrhart's story, Death by Christmas Scarf, is my favorite story of the three. Magazine editor Pamela Paterson and newspaper reporter Bettina Fraser team up to look into the death of a man strangled with a scarf made by a member of their knitting group. I love Pamela and Bettina's friendship and determination to solve the case. I also enjoyed all the vivid descriptions of the holiday celebrations, and I felt like I was right there in Bettina's home enjoying some holiday cheer.
I received an advance copy of this ebook from NetGalley and Kensington Books at no cost, but my review is voluntary and unbiased.
Carlene O'Connor's story, Christmas Scarf Murder, is the first in the book. It features Garda Siobhan O'Sullivan and her husband DS Macdora Flannery, investigating a series of thefts at an elder care home and then a murder. There are a lot of suspects and a fairly lengthy investigation, especially for a short story. The scenes at the care home were very enjoyable, and the story's sweet ending is perfect for a holiday story.
The second story, Scarfed Down by Maddie Day, has restaurant owner Robbie Jordan investigating the death of a knitter using yarn supplied by her aunt. The way the murder is commited is clever and sets up an intriguing mystery. I like Robbie and really enjoyed the great mother/son relationship she has with her stepson Sean. I didn't care for some of the side characters, and the way the accents of some of the characters were written was distracting. Overall, it is an entertaining story.
In my opinion, they saved the best for last. Peggy Ehrhart's story, Death by Christmas Scarf, is my favorite story of the three. Magazine editor Pamela Paterson and newspaper reporter Bettina Fraser team up to look into the death of a man strangled with a scarf made by a member of their knitting group. I love Pamela and Bettina's friendship and determination to solve the case. I also enjoyed all the vivid descriptions of the holiday celebrations, and I felt like I was right there in Bettina's home enjoying some holiday cheer.
I received an advance copy of this ebook from NetGalley and Kensington Books at no cost, but my review is voluntary and unbiased.
November 19, 2022
⭐⭐⭐⭐ -- Cute cover on this one!
I look forward every year to these Christmas themed cozy novellas!
CHRISTMAS SCARF MURDER by CARLENE O’CONNOR ⭐⭐⭐⭐
I really enjoy the Irish Village Mystery Series and this short story had all the ingredients I love in a holiday themed cozy mystery. It was suitibly festive. A beautiful setting. Had an engaging mystery. Likable characters, and a bonus recipe (or two 🤔).
SCARFED DOWN by MADDIE DAY ⭐⭐⭐⭐
This was another short story hit with me. As with the first story it was festive. The mystery was engaging. The characters likable, and more yummy sounding recipes. 👍🏻👍🏻
DEATH BY CHRISTMAS SCARF by PEGGY EHRHART ⭐⭐⭐
This one was my least favorite of the bunch. I just didn't find it as engaging as the other two. 🤷🏻♀️
**ARC Via NetGalley**
I look forward every year to these Christmas themed cozy novellas!
CHRISTMAS SCARF MURDER by CARLENE O’CONNOR ⭐⭐⭐⭐
I really enjoy the Irish Village Mystery Series and this short story had all the ingredients I love in a holiday themed cozy mystery. It was suitibly festive. A beautiful setting. Had an engaging mystery. Likable characters, and a bonus recipe (or two 🤔).
SCARFED DOWN by MADDIE DAY ⭐⭐⭐⭐
This was another short story hit with me. As with the first story it was festive. The mystery was engaging. The characters likable, and more yummy sounding recipes. 👍🏻👍🏻
DEATH BY CHRISTMAS SCARF by PEGGY EHRHART ⭐⭐⭐
This one was my least favorite of the bunch. I just didn't find it as engaging as the other two. 🤷🏻♀️
**ARC Via NetGalley**
January 4, 2024
Three stories based on knitted scarves at Christmas time. Fun reads.
November 21, 2022
I do enjoy reading Kensington's cozy mystery holiday anthologies and Christmas Scarf Murder was another fun book. It consisted of three stories that all had Christmas Scarves used in the murder or as a major clue. CHRISTMAS SCARF MURDER by CARLENE O’CONNOR found thefts occurring at a nursing home. One of the items stolen was a shamrock scarf which was found wrapped around the neck of a dead body. Siobhan O’Sullivan has to find out who the killer is before someone else dies. SCARFED DOWN by MADDIE DAY has a customer die in Pans ‘N Pancakes while knitting a scarf. Aunt Adele is a suspect, so Robbie has to find out who the real killer is. Finally in DEATH BY CHRISTMAS SCARF by PEGGY EHRHART, Carys Walnutt is found strangled by a handmade scarf auctioned at Arborville’s tree-lighting ceremony. The winner of the scarf bid using an alias, so that doesn't give any clues. There were several suspects to check out and the Knit and Nibble ladies have lots to investigate.
Christmas Scarf Murder was my favourite of the three, with some great characters, especially the residents of the nursing home. The dialogue was well written and entertaining and the ending was well plotted and exciting. Scarfed Down was a close second with some of my favourite cozy mystery characters. I love the down home wisdom, comments and friendships with Robbie Jordan and her friends and family. Buck is always good for a laugh. There was a lot of Christmas cheer and although there was a showdown to catch the killer, it was a good, safe conclusion for all. I'm not a big fan of the A Knit & Nibble Mystery series, so it is no surprise that this was my least favourite of the stories. Death by Christmas Scarf took us to Arborville NJ with Pamela and her Knit and Nibble ladies. This story had a lot of suspects as the victim was not well liked at all. There were a lot of Christmas festivities mixed in with the investigation and after solving the case there was another get together complete with lots of gossip and food. I always enjoy how these stories time together with a theme or item and Christmas Scarf Murder did a great job with that.
Christmas Scarf Murder was my favourite of the three, with some great characters, especially the residents of the nursing home. The dialogue was well written and entertaining and the ending was well plotted and exciting. Scarfed Down was a close second with some of my favourite cozy mystery characters. I love the down home wisdom, comments and friendships with Robbie Jordan and her friends and family. Buck is always good for a laugh. There was a lot of Christmas cheer and although there was a showdown to catch the killer, it was a good, safe conclusion for all. I'm not a big fan of the A Knit & Nibble Mystery series, so it is no surprise that this was my least favourite of the stories. Death by Christmas Scarf took us to Arborville NJ with Pamela and her Knit and Nibble ladies. This story had a lot of suspects as the victim was not well liked at all. There were a lot of Christmas festivities mixed in with the investigation and after solving the case there was another get together complete with lots of gossip and food. I always enjoy how these stories time together with a theme or item and Christmas Scarf Murder did a great job with that.
December 27, 2022
Review of Scarfed Down by Maddie Day 2.5 stars
It's Christmastime in South Lick and Robbie and the crew are busy coming up with 12 Days of Christmas themed specials and Aunt Adele has supplied yarn, knit hats and scarves from her own wool. The wooly knits are flying off the shelves and the cafe is BUSY! Married life is going well, although no hint of a baby just yet, and South Lick has been quiet and peaceful for the last few months. Robbie hopes it stays that way! Her hopes are disapointed when one of the cafe's regulars from a knitting club is found dead and it appears Aunt Adele's yarn was the culprit. Who would posion Aunt Adele's yarn to murder someone? Robbie knows it sure wasn't Adele! Now Robbie has a very good reason to investigate- to save Aunt Adele and to save the cafe (again) when it's shut down by investigators. Can Robbie solve this one in time for Christmas?
Another OK story. I don't know why I keep reading this series because it's just not for me. The 12 Days of Christmas specials were fun and creative. I found that the best part of the book but I don't need 20 pages dedicated to cooking in a novella. The mystery wasn't too easy to guess or too difficult. It was sad though that a woman was murdered just before Christmas. The villain's motive was pretty weak and ridiculous.
Robbie is still annoyingly judgmental even when she claims she isn't. Every time she comments on someone's size, I want to hit her over the head with one of her vintage pants. Her marriage is a little too perfect to be believable. Abe is hardly in the story but he's practically perfect. I can't believe he's given up the job he enjoys and is good at because he thinks it's too dangerous for a husband and father. Um who else do you think is going to take your place? A YOUNGER husband and father possibly. Sean is cute. He's starting to act more like a normal teen. Robbie is trying to play it cool when she realizes Sean has a girlfriend but he's wise to her and not falling for the old "bring her over for dinner sometime" move. Yeah no. Apparently Birdie has settled in quickly and doesn't seem to mind Cocoa. Unfortunately Cocoa is mostly AWOL in this story, aside from a mention of Sean walking the pup. Turner is around for this Christmas and I liked learning more about his family and his culture. His story about why his mom took his dad's name is very sweet. Danna has a bigger role to play in this story than mere gossip and cook, thankfully. Phil is back in the picture baking up a storm and sitting down to dinner with Robbie and family. He's far more interesting than Robbie.
The murder victim, Vicki Chakrabarti, sounds like she was an amazing woman. She was an incredible English teacher who taught kids how to learn and how to appreciate literature. She taught them how to think and prepared them for college. She didn't deserve to die, even if the things the villain said about her are true. Eva Kenney, Vicki's best friend, was the one to find her body. How awful! Eva is not the most likeable woman. The knitting club is like a junior high with backbiting and dating and breaking up with each other. Eva seems to be at the center of it.
Eva's brother, Adam, yes gross names, is the primary suspect. He is rude, unpleasant and not very chatty. He didn't seem to like Vicki very much. They were once married and then divorced. He sounds bitter about it. Cole Brewster, a real estate agent, was dating Vicki at one point but she dumped him. He came to Robbie's door to try to buy Abe's house, unsolicited, while Sean was home alone. Was he up to no good? Did Vicki find out and dump Cole because of it? Did he silence her for good? Those are the only suspects but it could have been anyone in the knitting club or anyone who purchased Adele's yarn! Yikes!
I am actually done with this series at least until I need to use more Hoopla borrows and the only thing I haven't read yet is the next book in this series!
It's Christmastime in South Lick and Robbie and the crew are busy coming up with 12 Days of Christmas themed specials and Aunt Adele has supplied yarn, knit hats and scarves from her own wool. The wooly knits are flying off the shelves and the cafe is BUSY! Married life is going well, although no hint of a baby just yet, and South Lick has been quiet and peaceful for the last few months. Robbie hopes it stays that way! Her hopes are disapointed when one of the cafe's regulars from a knitting club is found dead and it appears Aunt Adele's yarn was the culprit. Who would posion Aunt Adele's yarn to murder someone? Robbie knows it sure wasn't Adele! Now Robbie has a very good reason to investigate- to save Aunt Adele and to save the cafe (again) when it's shut down by investigators. Can Robbie solve this one in time for Christmas?
Another OK story. I don't know why I keep reading this series because it's just not for me. The 12 Days of Christmas specials were fun and creative. I found that the best part of the book but I don't need 20 pages dedicated to cooking in a novella. The mystery wasn't too easy to guess or too difficult. It was sad though that a woman was murdered just before Christmas. The villain's motive was pretty weak and ridiculous.
Robbie is still annoyingly judgmental even when she claims she isn't. Every time she comments on someone's size, I want to hit her over the head with one of her vintage pants. Her marriage is a little too perfect to be believable. Abe is hardly in the story but he's practically perfect. I can't believe he's given up the job he enjoys and is good at because he thinks it's too dangerous for a husband and father. Um who else do you think is going to take your place? A YOUNGER husband and father possibly. Sean is cute. He's starting to act more like a normal teen. Robbie is trying to play it cool when she realizes Sean has a girlfriend but he's wise to her and not falling for the old "bring her over for dinner sometime" move. Yeah no. Apparently Birdie has settled in quickly and doesn't seem to mind Cocoa. Unfortunately Cocoa is mostly AWOL in this story, aside from a mention of Sean walking the pup. Turner is around for this Christmas and I liked learning more about his family and his culture. His story about why his mom took his dad's name is very sweet. Danna has a bigger role to play in this story than mere gossip and cook, thankfully. Phil is back in the picture baking up a storm and sitting down to dinner with Robbie and family. He's far more interesting than Robbie.
The murder victim, Vicki Chakrabarti, sounds like she was an amazing woman. She was an incredible English teacher who taught kids how to learn and how to appreciate literature. She taught them how to think and prepared them for college. She didn't deserve to die, even if the things the villain said about her are true. Eva Kenney, Vicki's best friend, was the one to find her body. How awful! Eva is not the most likeable woman. The knitting club is like a junior high with backbiting and dating and breaking up with each other. Eva seems to be at the center of it.
Eva's brother, Adam, yes gross names, is the primary suspect. He is rude, unpleasant and not very chatty. He didn't seem to like Vicki very much. They were once married and then divorced. He sounds bitter about it. Cole Brewster, a real estate agent, was dating Vicki at one point but she dumped him. He came to Robbie's door to try to buy Abe's house, unsolicited, while Sean was home alone. Was he up to no good? Did Vicki find out and dump Cole because of it? Did he silence her for good? Those are the only suspects but it could have been anyone in the knitting club or anyone who purchased Adele's yarn! Yikes!
I am actually done with this series at least until I need to use more Hoopla borrows and the only thing I haven't read yet is the next book in this series!
October 5, 2022
Christmas Scarf Murder by Carlene O'Connor, Maddie Day, and Peggy Ehrhart contains three cozy novellas that are a part of the following series': An Irish Village Mystery series, A Country Store Mystery series and A Knit & Nibble Mystery series. I thought they were three entertaining Christmas cozies. They are all well-written and full of Christmas spirit. The three mysteries were interesting with various levels of complexity. Maddie Day's "Scarfed Down" story set in South Lick, Indiana was my preferred tale. I'm a fan of the series (so far I've previously read books 6 through to 10) and I have yet to find myself dissatisfied with any story that features Robbie Jordan and the Pans 'N Pancakes cast of characters.
I have read books from all three series, so it was fantastic for me to read each of the stories as I am already familiar with many of the characters plus the settings. I like how scarves played a part in each story as well as getting to enjoy Christmas festivities in three different towns. These collections of novellas give us readers a chance to catch up with a few of our amazing series' and solve a mystery to boot. Very highly recommended.
This review was written voluntarily and my rating was in no way influenced by the fact that I received a complimentary digital copy of this novel from Kensington Books via NetGalley.
I have read books from all three series, so it was fantastic for me to read each of the stories as I am already familiar with many of the characters plus the settings. I like how scarves played a part in each story as well as getting to enjoy Christmas festivities in three different towns. These collections of novellas give us readers a chance to catch up with a few of our amazing series' and solve a mystery to boot. Very highly recommended.
This review was written voluntarily and my rating was in no way influenced by the fact that I received a complimentary digital copy of this novel from Kensington Books via NetGalley.
September 15, 2022
I received a free copy from the publisher through Netgalley and voluntarily reviewed it.
Christmas Scarf Murder by Carlene O'Connor
I've read one other Christmas themed novella by this author and her series is on my to-read list. Christmas Scarf Murder had a great mystery as well as plenty of Christmas cheer. This one was easy to read even without knowing the characters and I enjoyed following Siobhán and her husband who both for for the police as they solve the mystery. There is a Christmas tractor parade involved, stolen items, a local nursery home and four young character who volunteer and help there.
The mystery was a good one that kept me guessing. And it was great to see how to progressed and they found new clues. I was impressed with the way all the clues tied neatly together toward the end to reveal the culprit, but at the same time during the mystery I wasn't sure who was the killer. I liked how the focus was on the mystery, but we got plenty of Christmas cheer as well with mentions of the parade and a Christmas market. The ending wrapped everything up nicely and it made for a satisfying Christmas cozy mystery read.
Scarfed Down by Maddie Day
I really like this series by Maddie Day and I was excited to get another story, this time set around Christmas time. There is a twisted mystery and I liked that the scarf killed the victim in a different way than in the first story. I liked how Robbie got involved and helped solve the mystery. My favorite part of this story as usual was reading about Robbie's daily life and the way she runs her restaurant. I liked reading about the 12 days of Christmas specials they were doing and how the came up with ideas for food to fit each day. There is enough Christmas charm as well as a satisfying conclusion to the mystery.
Death by Christmas Day Scarf by Peggy Ehrhart
This one missed the mark for me a bit. I struggled a bit with the stories introduction with lots of characters in a scene and figured this one is part of a series. Once I was sure who the main character was it went a bit better, but the writing style of this one didn't really work for me. I also had some trouble getting a good feel for the main character and felt she kinda faded into the background next to her expressive best friend who often lead the case and hunt for suspects. The mystery was interesting though, although I thought the way the main character solved it was a weird. I liked the Christmas charm and we get to see plenty of the festivities and how the character celebrate.
To summarize: This was a great Christmas themed cozy mystery collection with three cozy mystery stories. I liked how each of the stories can easily be read as a standalone, while they're clearly part of a series. Each story has plenty of Christmas charm as well as a murder mystery that involves a Christmas scarf and I liked how these two themes were present in all the stories. I personally enjoyed the first two stories the most, I am already a fan of Maddie Day's series and it was fun to revisit that series with a Christmas novella. I definitely plan to check out Charlene O'Connor' series as I enjoyed that mystery. The third story didn't work as well for me, but I liked the Christmas charm of it. I would definitely recommend this to fans of the genre!
Christmas Scarf Murder by Carlene O'Connor
I've read one other Christmas themed novella by this author and her series is on my to-read list. Christmas Scarf Murder had a great mystery as well as plenty of Christmas cheer. This one was easy to read even without knowing the characters and I enjoyed following Siobhán and her husband who both for for the police as they solve the mystery. There is a Christmas tractor parade involved, stolen items, a local nursery home and four young character who volunteer and help there.
The mystery was a good one that kept me guessing. And it was great to see how to progressed and they found new clues. I was impressed with the way all the clues tied neatly together toward the end to reveal the culprit, but at the same time during the mystery I wasn't sure who was the killer. I liked how the focus was on the mystery, but we got plenty of Christmas cheer as well with mentions of the parade and a Christmas market. The ending wrapped everything up nicely and it made for a satisfying Christmas cozy mystery read.
Scarfed Down by Maddie Day
I really like this series by Maddie Day and I was excited to get another story, this time set around Christmas time. There is a twisted mystery and I liked that the scarf killed the victim in a different way than in the first story. I liked how Robbie got involved and helped solve the mystery. My favorite part of this story as usual was reading about Robbie's daily life and the way she runs her restaurant. I liked reading about the 12 days of Christmas specials they were doing and how the came up with ideas for food to fit each day. There is enough Christmas charm as well as a satisfying conclusion to the mystery.
Death by Christmas Day Scarf by Peggy Ehrhart
This one missed the mark for me a bit. I struggled a bit with the stories introduction with lots of characters in a scene and figured this one is part of a series. Once I was sure who the main character was it went a bit better, but the writing style of this one didn't really work for me. I also had some trouble getting a good feel for the main character and felt she kinda faded into the background next to her expressive best friend who often lead the case and hunt for suspects. The mystery was interesting though, although I thought the way the main character solved it was a weird. I liked the Christmas charm and we get to see plenty of the festivities and how the character celebrate.
To summarize: This was a great Christmas themed cozy mystery collection with three cozy mystery stories. I liked how each of the stories can easily be read as a standalone, while they're clearly part of a series. Each story has plenty of Christmas charm as well as a murder mystery that involves a Christmas scarf and I liked how these two themes were present in all the stories. I personally enjoyed the first two stories the most, I am already a fan of Maddie Day's series and it was fun to revisit that series with a Christmas novella. I definitely plan to check out Charlene O'Connor' series as I enjoyed that mystery. The third story didn't work as well for me, but I liked the Christmas charm of it. I would definitely recommend this to fans of the genre!
July 2, 2022
This felt as comfortable as, well, a soft, fuzzy Christmas scarf. The three novellas were by not just three authors I am familiar with but with characters that, as I read, were remembered and came back to life in my mind. This is a perfect read for lovers of cozy mysteries who might be short on time but want to partake of some virtual sleuthing as the holiday season arrives.
True, as novellas are wont to do, they seemed to be short and a bit contrived at the end but, well, but the endings were satisfactory and all made sense. I liked that Maddie Day, in particular, made a point to support other authors by mentioning Becky Clark's book featuring a crossword puzzle designer solving crimes. As it turned out, I am also familiar with that series, giving it more of the feeling of having come home.
But, never fear. Even if you've never read or heard of any of these authors, you'll enjoy the stories and characters. I won't detail them all except to note that in the blurb the Day story is called "The Unfinished Scarf" whereas in the actual digital version I received it was titled ""Scarfed Down". You'll love the down home country sayings in it, no matter what the title. Then there's the tractor parade in "Christmas Scarf" and heroic cats in "Death By Christmas Scarf", so lots to take in. So, grab this one when it's available, sit down in your favorite, comfy chair, and enjoy some virtual sleuthing with twinkling Christmas lights and carols playing. And, oh, if you knit, be sure to check out the instructions for what sounds like an adorable teddy bear at the end of "Death By Christmas Scarf" in addition to the recipes included with all. Enjoy!
Thanks to #NetGalley and #KensingtonBooks for helping get me in the Christmas mood. Now, if I just knew how to knit.....
True, as novellas are wont to do, they seemed to be short and a bit contrived at the end but, well, but the endings were satisfactory and all made sense. I liked that Maddie Day, in particular, made a point to support other authors by mentioning Becky Clark's book featuring a crossword puzzle designer solving crimes. As it turned out, I am also familiar with that series, giving it more of the feeling of having come home.
But, never fear. Even if you've never read or heard of any of these authors, you'll enjoy the stories and characters. I won't detail them all except to note that in the blurb the Day story is called "The Unfinished Scarf" whereas in the actual digital version I received it was titled ""Scarfed Down". You'll love the down home country sayings in it, no matter what the title. Then there's the tractor parade in "Christmas Scarf" and heroic cats in "Death By Christmas Scarf", so lots to take in. So, grab this one when it's available, sit down in your favorite, comfy chair, and enjoy some virtual sleuthing with twinkling Christmas lights and carols playing. And, oh, if you knit, be sure to check out the instructions for what sounds like an adorable teddy bear at the end of "Death By Christmas Scarf" in addition to the recipes included with all. Enjoy!
Thanks to #NetGalley and #KensingtonBooks for helping get me in the Christmas mood. Now, if I just knew how to knit.....
September 27, 2022
CHRSTMAS SCARF MURDER is the novella trilogy by Carlene O’Connor, Maddie Day, and Peggy Ehrhart. With holiday cheer galore and a knotty mystery to solve in each story, this book is the perfect accompaniment to a glass of eggnog and a plateful of cookies in front of a roaring fire. Although each story is based on each author’s beloved series characters, you can easily read the book as a standalone. It’s a terrific way to catch up on the characters you love while waiting for the release of the next full-length book, or be introduced to new characters. While I’m quite familiar with, and fond of, Carlene O’Connor’s and Maddie Day’s series, I’ve not read anything by Peggy Ehrhart. I found it easy to jump into the story and follow the protagonist as she and her best friend solve the mystery. It also made me want to add her books to my TBR pile and catch up.
Each novella contains a mystery revolving around a Christmas scarf. The mysteries are well-plotted, despite the short length, and I have to give kudos to Maddie Day for the most creative use of the scarf as the murder weapon… no spoilers here! There are clues for the eggnog-sipping armchair detective to follow and several twists that kept me on my toes. Each mystery had a highly satisfactory conclusion, and despite the murder and mayhem involved, the stories exude the delight of the Christmas season.
I greatly enjoyed that there are recipes for the reader to make at home, and Peggy Ehrhart even included a cozy teddy bear knitting pattern!
I was provided with an advance copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Each novella contains a mystery revolving around a Christmas scarf. The mysteries are well-plotted, despite the short length, and I have to give kudos to Maddie Day for the most creative use of the scarf as the murder weapon… no spoilers here! There are clues for the eggnog-sipping armchair detective to follow and several twists that kept me on my toes. Each mystery had a highly satisfactory conclusion, and despite the murder and mayhem involved, the stories exude the delight of the Christmas season.
I greatly enjoyed that there are recipes for the reader to make at home, and Peggy Ehrhart even included a cozy teddy bear knitting pattern!
I was provided with an advance copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
August 21, 2022
I mainly requested this ARC for Peggy Ehrhart and I thoroughly enjoy her novella. I also like Carlene O' Connor and Maddie Day whose novella are well plotted and entertaining.
An excellent Christmas anthology that i strongly recommend.
Many thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this ARC, all opinions are mine
An excellent Christmas anthology that i strongly recommend.
Many thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this ARC, all opinions are mine
November 7, 2022
I love when cozy authors get together and put out a collection of novellas that continue their current series. It's an excellent way to get to know new authors and their characters or just to get a fun taste of a series that you already love! In this particular collection, all the authors used a Christmas scarf as the murder weapon and then wove their unique and individual story around a Christmas themed murder. I was thrilled that Carlene O'Connor had an entry that continued with her Irish Village Mystery series that is set in County Cork, Ireland. If you haven't yet met the O'Sullivan brood this is a great series and should be on your must-read list. Then Maddie Day had her Country Store series set in Southern Indiana. Again, this is a must-read series on my list as the characters are diverse, unique and like the best friends you can't wait to catch up with. The last story was from Peggy Ehrhart with an installment from her Knits & nibble series set in New Jersey. This a completely new series to me, but I am happy to report that there are now 9 books in the series and I can't wait to start binge reading or listening to this one! I absolutely love Pamela and her best friend. I would love to have a fun knitter's group like theirs to join! In the short span of time, I traveled from Ireland to Indiana and ended in New Jersey sometimes with characters that I dearly love and ending with a new author to add to my favorites list! You should totally pick up this collection and get introduced to new characters then go find the entire series. If you already follow these authors' and their series then this is a great way to get just a small bit more while you wait for their next full length book!
December 17, 2023
This book is difficult to rate because it contains three different Christmas stories. I was attracted to the book because one of the stories is Scarfed Down by Maddie Day. I love her Country Store Mysteries, and this novella is part of that series. Another novella is Death by Christmas Scarf by Peg Ehrhart, which is part of the Knit and Nibble series. It was my first read by this author, and I plan to read book #1 in the Knit and Nibble series to try it out. The third novella was Christmas Scarf Murder by Carlene O'Connor. The mystery itself was good, but some of the conversation was corny and sappy at times. Still, the entire book is a good read during the Christmas season for lovers of cozy mysteries.
September 12, 2022
Christmas Scarf Murder by Carlene O'Connor, Maddie Day, and Peggy Ehrhart is a collection of three novellas with an expected publication date of September 27, 2022. I received an Advanced Readers Copy (ARC) from NetGalley and Kensington Books for free in exchange for my honest review. I was delighted to have been chosen to read and review this collection ahead of publication.
All three stories in this collection had a common thread . . . they all had characters that knitted and a scarf played an important part in each story. Each story was a continuation of a cozy mystery series.
Christmas Scarf Murder by Carlene O'Connor is about a theft at a local nursing home in Ireland. When a dead body shows ups at the local tractor parade with the missing scarf around the deceased's neck, Siobhan O’Sullivan must connect all the dots. This story started off slowly for me, and I found some of the slang difficult to figure out. With that being said, the premise was skillfully done and reminded me of something Agatha Christie would have written. Three out of five stars.
Scarfed Down by Maddie Day opens with Robbie Jordan and her employees trying to figure out Christmas specials for her restaurant in Indiana. When one of her patrons dies while knitting a green scarf, Robbie must proof that her Aunt Adele has nothing to do with the death. This story was easy to follow and the characters are likable. I enjoyed the premise of the plot and felt it was well thought out. However, some of the dialogue was a little over the top to me, and it made the characters seem like they should have been from the South instead of the Midwest. Three out of five stars.
Death by Christmas Scarf by Peggy Ehrhart opens with a knitting club talking about the death of Carys Walnutt, who was strangled after the local auction for the public library. Pamela Paterson and her friend try to figure out who murdered the sour lady and exonerate the person who bid on the scarf Carys was found wearing. I enjoyed that Pamela worked for a magazine and that she had such a close knit circle of friends. The storyline was enjoyable, but I figured out who the murderer was from the very beginning . . . I just wasn't sure what the motive was behind the killing. Additionally, I didn't care for the dialogue. It felt like the author threw in big words when common language would have sufficed. Three out of five stars.
All in all, I enjoyed all three novellas, and they were quick reads, which was just what I was looking for at the time. These stories were perfect to put me in the mood for Christmas, despite there being murders in each story. Thankfully, none of the stories were gory. Each story was a solid three out of five stars.
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All three stories in this collection had a common thread . . . they all had characters that knitted and a scarf played an important part in each story. Each story was a continuation of a cozy mystery series.
Christmas Scarf Murder by Carlene O'Connor is about a theft at a local nursing home in Ireland. When a dead body shows ups at the local tractor parade with the missing scarf around the deceased's neck, Siobhan O’Sullivan must connect all the dots. This story started off slowly for me, and I found some of the slang difficult to figure out. With that being said, the premise was skillfully done and reminded me of something Agatha Christie would have written. Three out of five stars.
Scarfed Down by Maddie Day opens with Robbie Jordan and her employees trying to figure out Christmas specials for her restaurant in Indiana. When one of her patrons dies while knitting a green scarf, Robbie must proof that her Aunt Adele has nothing to do with the death. This story was easy to follow and the characters are likable. I enjoyed the premise of the plot and felt it was well thought out. However, some of the dialogue was a little over the top to me, and it made the characters seem like they should have been from the South instead of the Midwest. Three out of five stars.
Death by Christmas Scarf by Peggy Ehrhart opens with a knitting club talking about the death of Carys Walnutt, who was strangled after the local auction for the public library. Pamela Paterson and her friend try to figure out who murdered the sour lady and exonerate the person who bid on the scarf Carys was found wearing. I enjoyed that Pamela worked for a magazine and that she had such a close knit circle of friends. The storyline was enjoyable, but I figured out who the murderer was from the very beginning . . . I just wasn't sure what the motive was behind the killing. Additionally, I didn't care for the dialogue. It felt like the author threw in big words when common language would have sufficed. Three out of five stars.
All in all, I enjoyed all three novellas, and they were quick reads, which was just what I was looking for at the time. These stories were perfect to put me in the mood for Christmas, despite there being murders in each story. Thankfully, none of the stories were gory. Each story was a solid three out of five stars.
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October 2, 2022
This was another fun Christmas short story compilation that I've come to look forward to reading every year. I'm up to date on the Country Store series, have read one or two in Irish Village and read the first one or two in Knit & Nibble, so I was already familiar with characters. Although someone could read these and not be lost.
Christmas Scarf Murder was a fun reunion with Siobhan and her big Irish family. I was suspicious of someone from the get-go, so it wasn't too far of a stretch to find they were the killer. I got a kick out of the elder home residents too and Siobhan and her hubby's cute banter while working the case. The showdown was planned a really good. And the ending was so darn sweet!
In Scarfed Down, it wasn't a huge surprise who the killer was even though there were several to pick from. I always enjoy a good Christmas story with Robbie and crew though and had fun reading about the investigation. Wanda and Buck always crack me up! The showdown was tense at first but no one was hurt at least. I loved this ending as well, lots of Christmas togetherness with family and good friends.
Death by Christmas Scarf took us to Arborville NJ with Pamela and her group of knitter friends. I haven't read in the series for a while, so I was happy to read about these folks and might just need to get out my next in series soon where I left off. I really enjoyed this mystery too and liked the twist toward the end. As with all good cozies, there were some fun Christmas parties but ended with the friends gathering for the big explanation. Even Nell couldn't get on them too much for gossiping after all this! ;)
I voluntarily read and reviewed an ARC of this book provided by Kensington Cozies via NetGalley, and my opinions are my own.
Christmas Scarf Murder was a fun reunion with Siobhan and her big Irish family. I was suspicious of someone from the get-go, so it wasn't too far of a stretch to find they were the killer. I got a kick out of the elder home residents too and Siobhan and her hubby's cute banter while working the case. The showdown was planned a really good. And the ending was so darn sweet!
In Scarfed Down, it wasn't a huge surprise who the killer was even though there were several to pick from. I always enjoy a good Christmas story with Robbie and crew though and had fun reading about the investigation. Wanda and Buck always crack me up! The showdown was tense at first but no one was hurt at least. I loved this ending as well, lots of Christmas togetherness with family and good friends.
Death by Christmas Scarf took us to Arborville NJ with Pamela and her group of knitter friends. I haven't read in the series for a while, so I was happy to read about these folks and might just need to get out my next in series soon where I left off. I really enjoyed this mystery too and liked the twist toward the end. As with all good cozies, there were some fun Christmas parties but ended with the friends gathering for the big explanation. Even Nell couldn't get on them too much for gossiping after all this! ;)
I voluntarily read and reviewed an ARC of this book provided by Kensington Cozies via NetGalley, and my opinions are my own.
August 16, 2022
Read the full review on Rosepoint Publishing.
Fun, fast, and easy book to kick off the Christmas reading holidays! This anthology is headlined by Carlene O’Connor, whose Irish Village Mystery series feature Detective Sargeant Siobhan O’Sullivan and hubby Garda O’Sullivan in this offering, Christmas Scarf Murder. This series is always a treat with the Irish countryside-themed mysteries.
The second, Scarfed Down by Maddie Day is part of her Country Store Mystery series set in South Lick, Indiana. I greatly enjoy her writing style as well as the snicker-worthy sense of humor. She’s always busy tending her restaurant/country store and hosting a knitting group. It’s the latter that’s key to this novella.
I’m unfamiliar with Peggy Ehrhart who included her Death by Christmas Scarf in the Christmas scarf-themed compilation. The third story features Pam Paterson who engages with her Knit and Nibble group in an interesting use of knit one, purl one during WWII (Spy-Craft: The Knitting Spies of World War II…”).
These Christmas scarf-themed cozy mystery novellas are a lovely way to ease into the season, expected to release late September and currently on preorder. 4.5 stars
I received a complimentary review copy of this book from the author and publisher through @NetGalley that in no way influenced this review. These are my honest thoughts.
Fun, fast, and easy book to kick off the Christmas reading holidays! This anthology is headlined by Carlene O’Connor, whose Irish Village Mystery series feature Detective Sargeant Siobhan O’Sullivan and hubby Garda O’Sullivan in this offering, Christmas Scarf Murder. This series is always a treat with the Irish countryside-themed mysteries.
The second, Scarfed Down by Maddie Day is part of her Country Store Mystery series set in South Lick, Indiana. I greatly enjoy her writing style as well as the snicker-worthy sense of humor. She’s always busy tending her restaurant/country store and hosting a knitting group. It’s the latter that’s key to this novella.
I’m unfamiliar with Peggy Ehrhart who included her Death by Christmas Scarf in the Christmas scarf-themed compilation. The third story features Pam Paterson who engages with her Knit and Nibble group in an interesting use of knit one, purl one during WWII (Spy-Craft: The Knitting Spies of World War II…”).
These Christmas scarf-themed cozy mystery novellas are a lovely way to ease into the season, expected to release late September and currently on preorder. 4.5 stars
I received a complimentary review copy of this book from the author and publisher through @NetGalley that in no way influenced this review. These are my honest thoughts.
September 30, 2022
Each of the stories in Christmas Scarf Murder is wonderfully delightful. From thefts at a senior living center, a handmade stolen knitted scarf found around the neck of a murder victim, to bad-tempered holiday shoppers, these stories will keep readers engaged and looking forward to the upcoming Christmas holiday.
The characters are well known and beloved by most readers, but if you have read none of the books in the individual series, I would suggest that you read at least the first one in each to get a good idea of who everyone is and why they play an important role in this book. The settings are, as always, described lovingly with enough detail to allow readers to envision each area. The Christmas decorations sound amazing, and I would love to see them somewhere in real life. A scarf is the primary focus of each story. How many times in our lives have we wrapped one of these knitted creations to keep us warm without ever giving a thought to how it could be used to kill someone? These stories will make you think twice before donning another Christmas scarf.
I have enjoyed each of these stories, and I love the year’s Christmas anthology. Christmas Scarf Murder is no exception and was perhaps one of the best ones yet. The suspects in each story were believable, the evidence was carefully presented to keep the mystery going, and the killers and motives take readers on an exciting trip through holidays, history, and secrets. I am happy to recommend this book and each of the author’s series to readers who enjoy a genuine mystery with thoughtful descriptions and characters that feel like family.
The characters are well known and beloved by most readers, but if you have read none of the books in the individual series, I would suggest that you read at least the first one in each to get a good idea of who everyone is and why they play an important role in this book. The settings are, as always, described lovingly with enough detail to allow readers to envision each area. The Christmas decorations sound amazing, and I would love to see them somewhere in real life. A scarf is the primary focus of each story. How many times in our lives have we wrapped one of these knitted creations to keep us warm without ever giving a thought to how it could be used to kill someone? These stories will make you think twice before donning another Christmas scarf.
I have enjoyed each of these stories, and I love the year’s Christmas anthology. Christmas Scarf Murder is no exception and was perhaps one of the best ones yet. The suspects in each story were believable, the evidence was carefully presented to keep the mystery going, and the killers and motives take readers on an exciting trip through holidays, history, and secrets. I am happy to recommend this book and each of the author’s series to readers who enjoy a genuine mystery with thoughtful descriptions and characters that feel like family.
September 26, 2022
Christmas Scarf Murder, three novellas by authors Carlene O‘Connor, Maddie Day, and Peggy Ehrhart. For O’Connor’s submission we join the O’Sullivan clan and MacDara for their first Christmas as a married couple and the first in their new (old) house. Siobhan joins Macdara in investigating the robbery of several precious, but not valuable items at a local nursing home. It seems simple enough until one of the items, a scarf, is used to murder a volunteer at the home at the rehearsal for the Christmas tractor parade. Of course, Siobhan and Macdara solve the mystery. In the second story, Scarfed Down, we find Robbie at a meeting of her knitting group. She doesn’t knit but enjoys the company. Robbie and the gang are on the job. Most of the knitters use Aunt Adele’s yarn. She dies and spins it herself from wool taken from the sheep she raises. Now someone is dead and her yarn was in their hands-poison. The third featured Bettina and Pamela. I have never read anything by this author, but I am assuming it is part of a larger series. The group had just finished knitting scarves for the silent auction to raise money for the local library. Before too long, someone is strangled with the scarf they got at the auction.
Three short glimpses into long-running series. It’s a good way to get your feet wet. None require much fore knowledge, all are decent mysteries, and all give a good look at the greater picture. All are character-driven, as are most cozies, and all three represent the best of the genre. It’s a shame to couple murder with Christmas but these things happen. A good book. Worth the read.
I was invited to read a free e-ARC of Christmas Scarf Murder by Kensington, through Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are mine. #Netgalley #Kensington #CarleneOConnor #MaddieDay #Peggy Ehrhart #ChristmasScarfMurder
Three short glimpses into long-running series. It’s a good way to get your feet wet. None require much fore knowledge, all are decent mysteries, and all give a good look at the greater picture. All are character-driven, as are most cozies, and all three represent the best of the genre. It’s a shame to couple murder with Christmas but these things happen. A good book. Worth the read.
I was invited to read a free e-ARC of Christmas Scarf Murder by Kensington, through Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are mine. #Netgalley #Kensington #CarleneOConnor #MaddieDay #Peggy Ehrhart #ChristmasScarfMurder
November 20, 2022
A wonderful cozy mystery collection. I'm familiar with two of the series -- current with Carlene O'Connor's Irish Village Mystery series, and have read the first three in Maddie Day's Country Store Mysteries so I enjoyed both of those novellas the most. I felt a bit lost in Peg Ehrhart's selection since I haven't read any of the Knit and Nibble Mysteries and there are eight before this one, but it definitely piqued my interest enough to put the series on my 2023 SAS list. I was impressed with the way all three authors were able to develop the mystery elements a novella length story. And I loved the light romantic elements in the first two since I've been rooting for those couples all along. :-)
December 5, 2024
Sono indecisa se aggiungere mezza stella... purtroppo negli ultimi due giorni non ho avuto tempo per leggere e l'ultimo racconto si è trascinato a lungo, cosa deleteria perché già ho problemi a entrare in sintonia con le protagoniste (infatti ho letto il primo libro di quella serie e ho poi deciso di non continuarla). I primi due li ho apprezzati, così come mi piacciono le serie di cui fanno parte. Mah... lasciamo un semplice 4 stelle...
December 6, 2025
Caveat: this was my first time reading any of this series, I picked up for a holiday read.
I found the stories somewhat predictable. But my low stars come from each of the authors having some sort of obsession with people loosing wait or being in larger bodies. It was uncomfortable to read and unnecessary details. I also just found the stories to have too much detail at times about items that didn’t seem necessary.
I found the stories somewhat predictable. But my low stars come from each of the authors having some sort of obsession with people loosing wait or being in larger bodies. It was uncomfortable to read and unnecessary details. I also just found the stories to have too much detail at times about items that didn’t seem necessary.
September 28, 2022
Three separate short stories that are each part of a larger series. They are all OK but don’t really add anything to their respective series in any way. Each has a scarf involved in the murder but aren’t overly Christmas-y.
I received a copy from #NetGalley for an honest review.
I received a copy from #NetGalley for an honest review.
March 14, 2023
I only read the first two stories. They were ok, I just am not familiar with any of the attached series, so was not as invested as I wanted to be to finish the last story. Maybe at Christmas next year I will.
February 15, 2023
What a delightful surprise! I bought this because I'm a huge fan of Maddie Day and she has one of the three stories in this collection-and it is a fantastic mystery and fits in well with the rest of her Country Store Mystery series. The surprise was Carlene O'Connor's wonderful titular story. I'd not read O'Connor's work before, but fell immediately in love with the characters in this story. They were funny, and sweet, and intimate, and smart, and real. Stellar!
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