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Resale Boutique Mystery #5
Sleuthing in Stilettos
Kelly Quinn, owner of a high-end consignment shop, is a booster for her Long Island town’s small businesses—but now a store owner’s murder has brought big trouble . . .
Locals in Lucky Cove seem to harbor hostility toward Miranda Farrell, proprietor of a new shoe store. Nevertheless, Kelly invites her along to a Chamber of Commerce meeting. But soon afterward, Miranda’s body is found in her shop, with Kelly’s uncle—who’s had multiple public arguments with her—standing nearby. Could her uncle really have committed murder over a business dispute? Or is Miranda’s death related to her late husband’s long-ago embezzlement case?
Kelly feels compelled to investigate, despite her detective boyfriend’s objections—not to mention her commitment to promoting Small Business Saturday. But her effort to pump up sales may fall flat. After her presentation to the committee is sabotaged, the Chamber gives her the boot—and tongues start wagging. Now she has to do some fancy footwork to find the killer . . .
Locals in Lucky Cove seem to harbor hostility toward Miranda Farrell, proprietor of a new shoe store. Nevertheless, Kelly invites her along to a Chamber of Commerce meeting. But soon afterward, Miranda’s body is found in her shop, with Kelly’s uncle—who’s had multiple public arguments with her—standing nearby. Could her uncle really have committed murder over a business dispute? Or is Miranda’s death related to her late husband’s long-ago embezzlement case?
Kelly feels compelled to investigate, despite her detective boyfriend’s objections—not to mention her commitment to promoting Small Business Saturday. But her effort to pump up sales may fall flat. After her presentation to the committee is sabotaged, the Chamber gives her the boot—and tongues start wagging. Now she has to do some fancy footwork to find the killer . . .
- GenresMysteryCozy Mystery
256 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 6, 2022
4 people are currently reading
147 people want to read
About the author
Debra Sennefelder
15 books627 followersDebra Sennefelder is an avid reader who reads across a range of genres, but mystery fiction is her obsession. Her interest in people and relationships is channeled into her novels against a backdrop of crime and mystery. When she’s not reading, she enjoys cooking and baking and as a former food blogger, she is constantly taking photographs of her food. Yeah, she’s that person.
Born and raised in New York City, she now lives and Connecticut with her family. She’s worked in pre-hospital care, retail and publishing. Her writing companion is her adorable and slightly spoiled Shih-Tzu, Connie.
She is a member of Sisters in Crime and Romance Writers of America.
She can be reached at Debra@DebraSennefelder.com
Born and raised in New York City, she now lives and Connecticut with her family. She’s worked in pre-hospital care, retail and publishing. Her writing companion is her adorable and slightly spoiled Shih-Tzu, Connie.
She is a member of Sisters in Crime and Romance Writers of America.
She can be reached at Debra@DebraSennefelder.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews
November 21, 2024
In this 5th book in the 'Resale Boutique Mystery' series, store owner/amateur sleuth Kelly Quinn investigates the murder of a shoe store proprietor. The book can be read as a standalone, but familiarity with the characters is a bonus.
*****
Twentysomething Kelly Quinn owns an upscale consignment shop called 'The Lucky Cove Resale Boutique' in the town of Lucky Cove on Long Island.
In addition to running the store, Kelly writes a weekly newsletter about fashion and clothing, and leads the 'Shop Small Lucky Cove' campaign. Shop Small takes place between Black Friday and Cyber Monday, and encourages consumers to patronize local businesses during the holiday season.
Kelly wants proprieters of local stores to get involved with the Shop Small campaign. This includes Miranda Farrell, the recently arrived owner of a luxury shoe shop called 'Miranda & James.'
Kelly notices that most residents of Lucky Cove are hostile to Miranda, and - being a natural-born nosybody - Kelly wants to know why.
Thus Kelly learns that Miranda lived in Lucky Cove twenty years ago, was married twice, and both her husbands died....after which Miranda left town. Moreover, Miranda's first husband embezzled a large amount of money, and wiped out the retirement funds of numerous Lucky Cove citizens. The locals think Miranda helped steal the moola and made off with it, and they're furious that Miranda came back.
As it happens, Kelly is very taken with a pair of black D'Orsay pumps in Miranda's store....
.....and Kelly takes her friends Breena and Liv to see the pumps.
Shockingly, the women find Miranda's dead body, with Kelly's Uncle Ralph standing over the corpse. Irascible Uncle Ralph has been seen arguing with Miranda in public, and he becomes the number one suspect for her murder.
Kelly wants to prove that her uncle is innocent and sets out to find the real killer, against the explicit instructions of her boyfriend, police detective Nate Barber.
Kelly's method of investigation is to find out who disliked Miranda, and to ask each person, "Where were you on the morning of the murder?" This is a bumbling approach for even the most unskilled amateur detective and it doesn't work.
Meanwhile, Kelly seems to be losing it. She apparently forgets to lock her front door; allows her cat into the boutique, which upsets an allergic customer; messes up a text message to her boyfriend; misplaces her car key; etc. Kelly is pretty sure she didn't do any of this, and tries to suss out what's going on.
In the course of the story Kelly finds another dead body; formulates a number of theories about the murders; navigates numerous red herrings; and finally discovers the real killer....endangering her life along the way.
Cozies usually have a hook in addition to the murder mystery, and for this series it's fashion. Kelly is very clothes-conscious and describes her outfits, and that of other characters, in some detail. For instance, on a cool day Kelly reaches for her camel-colored coatigan, a sweater that could be a coat when it's very chilly;
Then, when Kelly's leaving her boutique one afternoon, she pauses at a mirror to admire her short-sleeved black top tucked into a leopard print wrap skirt;
And a true-crime writer who wants to interview Kelly wears a houndstooth patterned top and black side-vent ankle pants.
Though Kelly's amateur sleuthing is a bit clumsy and aggressive, this is an enjoyable cozy mystery, recommened to fans of the genre.
Thanks to Netgalley, Debra Sennefelder, and Kensington Publishing for a copy of the book.
You can follow my reviews at https://reviewsbybarbsaffer.blogspot.com
November 18, 2022
A stalker is threatening Kelly Quinn, owner of Lucky Cove Resale Boutique in the intriguing new installment of Debra Sennefelder’s awesome cozy series. It’s fall, and the holiday season is fast approaching, and Kelly is in charge of planning the Shop Small Business Saturday events. When a new shop owner is murdered, Uncle Ralph is the #1 suspect. The victim’s past is sketchy, and many people in town dislike her.
Kelly’s amateur sleuthing leads her into a dangerous web of lies that began years before, and which now puts her in great danger. A lot of deceit is gradually unveiled in this twisty plot. Fortunately, Kelly’s friends have her back when the shocking killer is revealed. This book should definitely be added to readers’ wish lists. I highly recommend the entire Resale Boutique series!
I honestly reviewed an unedited digital arc provided by NetGalley and Kensington Lyrical Underground. All opinions are my own.
Kelly’s amateur sleuthing leads her into a dangerous web of lies that began years before, and which now puts her in great danger. A lot of deceit is gradually unveiled in this twisty plot. Fortunately, Kelly’s friends have her back when the shocking killer is revealed. This book should definitely be added to readers’ wish lists. I highly recommend the entire Resale Boutique series!
I honestly reviewed an unedited digital arc provided by NetGalley and Kensington Lyrical Underground. All opinions are my own.
December 17, 2022
Dollycas’s Thoughts
Kelly is still reeling from her cousin’s death and thinks keeping herself as busy as possible will help her deal with it. So she takes on some vast responsibilities at the Chamber of Commerce including personally inviting the new shoe store owner, Miranda Farrell, to the next meeting. She finds out too late that Miranda has a history in Lucky Cove, so she wasn’t well-received at the meeting. Kelly is also trying to find a way to reconcile her friendship with Ariel after a long-held secret was revealed. Unfortunately, her presentation at the chamber meeting for the Small Business Saturday makes matters worse. It also gets her removed from the chamber.
Soon after Kelly finds herself in the middle of another murder when Miranda’s dead body is found in her shoe shop with Kelly’s uncle standing over her body. Miranda and her uncle have had several arguments witnessed by others but Kelly can’t believe he would kill her over business-related squabbles. With her chamber obligations removed she has plenty of time to investigate the murder. Now if she could just find her computer mouse and her keys. Blast it! Nate is going to be upset with her butting into his case again.
I love Kelly and her fashion sense, I really do, but the girl really needs to work on her sleuthing techniques. She just can’t ask basic questions without accusing the person of murder and then wonders why they get mad. I know her heart is in the right place but seriously one of these days there won’t be anyone left to rescue her when she gets herself in trouble. Every time she started to question someone I wanted to jump into the book and try to protect her from herself. I will say that a lot of character development occurs with Kelly as the book continues and for that, I was very delighted.
Kelly is surrounded by an excellent supporting cast. She has been through a lot and she needs her friends. I am happy to see Breena starting something new. I like the way Nate and Kelly’s relationship is developing and that he is opening himself up more to her. She needs a strong man in her life.
Miranda Farrell had a slew of people that could have wanted her dead so there really is a nice suspect pool. A friend getting seriously injured shakes things up but Kelly doesn’t give up. The author throws in some excellent twists and interesting connections to keep everyone guessing. I was completely surprised when the killer was revealed. The showdown was exciting and I loved the person who showed up just in time!
Sleuthing in Stiletto’s lead character may have frustrated me at times, but the story grabbed my attention from the start and didn’t let go. I stayed up late to finish because I knew I wasn’t going to go to sleep until I knew whodunit!
Another Perfect Escape from Debra Sennefelder, that is not a surprise. She is a fantastic storyteller.
Kelly is still reeling from her cousin’s death and thinks keeping herself as busy as possible will help her deal with it. So she takes on some vast responsibilities at the Chamber of Commerce including personally inviting the new shoe store owner, Miranda Farrell, to the next meeting. She finds out too late that Miranda has a history in Lucky Cove, so she wasn’t well-received at the meeting. Kelly is also trying to find a way to reconcile her friendship with Ariel after a long-held secret was revealed. Unfortunately, her presentation at the chamber meeting for the Small Business Saturday makes matters worse. It also gets her removed from the chamber.
Soon after Kelly finds herself in the middle of another murder when Miranda’s dead body is found in her shoe shop with Kelly’s uncle standing over her body. Miranda and her uncle have had several arguments witnessed by others but Kelly can’t believe he would kill her over business-related squabbles. With her chamber obligations removed she has plenty of time to investigate the murder. Now if she could just find her computer mouse and her keys. Blast it! Nate is going to be upset with her butting into his case again.
I love Kelly and her fashion sense, I really do, but the girl really needs to work on her sleuthing techniques. She just can’t ask basic questions without accusing the person of murder and then wonders why they get mad. I know her heart is in the right place but seriously one of these days there won’t be anyone left to rescue her when she gets herself in trouble. Every time she started to question someone I wanted to jump into the book and try to protect her from herself. I will say that a lot of character development occurs with Kelly as the book continues and for that, I was very delighted.
Kelly is surrounded by an excellent supporting cast. She has been through a lot and she needs her friends. I am happy to see Breena starting something new. I like the way Nate and Kelly’s relationship is developing and that he is opening himself up more to her. She needs a strong man in her life.
Miranda Farrell had a slew of people that could have wanted her dead so there really is a nice suspect pool. A friend getting seriously injured shakes things up but Kelly doesn’t give up. The author throws in some excellent twists and interesting connections to keep everyone guessing. I was completely surprised when the killer was revealed. The showdown was exciting and I loved the person who showed up just in time!
Sleuthing in Stiletto’s lead character may have frustrated me at times, but the story grabbed my attention from the start and didn’t let go. I stayed up late to finish because I knew I wasn’t going to go to sleep until I knew whodunit!
Another Perfect Escape from Debra Sennefelder, that is not a surprise. She is a fantastic storyteller.
January 28, 2023
Arguments abound in the newest addition to the “A Resale Boutique Mystery” series, Sleuthing in Stilettos. A new shopkeeper, Miranda, has moved in a few doors down from Kelly’s shop, and apparently, no one in town wants the woman or her business, especially Kelly’s uncle. When Kelly’s uncle is seen publicly arguing with Miranda and then found standing over her dead body, the gossip mill starts grinding, and Kelly has to figure out who the killer is before her uncle finds himself locked up for good.
There are suspects, an entire town of them, an ex-husband, and ex-in-laws. The evidence is sketchy and isn’t plausible or, sometimes, relevant. There doesn’t appear to be anyone who liked Miranda, and everyone in town had arguments with her. The police do not appear to be a factor; they feel that they have their man and aren’t looking for any other suspects. To be honest, I had a difficult time finding anything good in this story. I didn’t find any characters that I liked; even Kelly got on my nerves. The ending was predictable, the reveal of the murderer uninspiring. But if the reader doesn’t know who the killer is as soon as they are introduced, they probably weren’t reading this book.
I have liked other books in this series, but Sleuthing in Stilettos just didn’t give me any enjoyment. The continuous arguments and strife between the victim and the townspeople, not to mention the way Kelly’s uncle treats her, made the story unenjoyable for me. And… by the time Miranda’s killer is unmasked, I was well past caring who killed her or why. I gave this story three stars because of a few of the returning characters’ small parts, but there was little I found that I could praise. Hopefully, the next installment will be better.
There are suspects, an entire town of them, an ex-husband, and ex-in-laws. The evidence is sketchy and isn’t plausible or, sometimes, relevant. There doesn’t appear to be anyone who liked Miranda, and everyone in town had arguments with her. The police do not appear to be a factor; they feel that they have their man and aren’t looking for any other suspects. To be honest, I had a difficult time finding anything good in this story. I didn’t find any characters that I liked; even Kelly got on my nerves. The ending was predictable, the reveal of the murderer uninspiring. But if the reader doesn’t know who the killer is as soon as they are introduced, they probably weren’t reading this book.
I have liked other books in this series, but Sleuthing in Stilettos just didn’t give me any enjoyment. The continuous arguments and strife between the victim and the townspeople, not to mention the way Kelly’s uncle treats her, made the story unenjoyable for me. And… by the time Miranda’s killer is unmasked, I was well past caring who killed her or why. I gave this story three stars because of a few of the returning characters’ small parts, but there was little I found that I could praise. Hopefully, the next installment will be better.
August 31, 2022
When a new merchant comes to town, Kelly welcomes her to Lucky Cove. But ti turns out the woman isn’t new to town, but like Kelly, has returned. When the woman is found murdered with Kelly’s Uncle standing over her body, Kelly just knows he’s not a murderer and sets out to find out who killed the woman and why.
Filled with lots of suspects and red herrings, this one had me changing my mind on who did it and why until close to the end. A strong female protagonist, a cute Kitty and characters that provide the perfect supporting cast, this is a cozy series for everyone, but a must for fashionistas!
Filled with lots of suspects and red herrings, this one had me changing my mind on who did it and why until close to the end. A strong female protagonist, a cute Kitty and characters that provide the perfect supporting cast, this is a cozy series for everyone, but a must for fashionistas!
January 2, 2023
This is the 5th instalment in Debra Sennefelder's Resale Boutique series. Kelly Quinn is back in her hometown and trying to make some cash from second-hand shopping. After inheriting the business from her gran she is updating it with current trends and styles. It's October and Miranda Farrell is the proprietor of a new shoe shop called Miranda & James and so Kelly invites Miranda to a Chamber of Commerce meeting to be held at the Lucky Cove Inn. At the meeting Miranda is not well-received and later, after the lunch, Miranda is found dead in her shoe shop...
The story was very intriguing and there were enough suspects to make the identification of the killer rather challenging. Debra Sennefelder's seemingly simple plot was layered with subterfuge and interesting connections as Kelly got ever more involved in the murder investigation. The author has done an excellent job of developing the main character's personality and Kelly has an unwavering need to help others, making it easy for me to continue to bond with her. Kelly is also surrounded by an excellent supporting cast. I can't wait to see what happens next in Kelly's adventures. Very highly recommended.
I received a complimentary copy of this novel at my request from Kensington Books via NetGalley. This review is my own unbiased opinion.
The story was very intriguing and there were enough suspects to make the identification of the killer rather challenging. Debra Sennefelder's seemingly simple plot was layered with subterfuge and interesting connections as Kelly got ever more involved in the murder investigation. The author has done an excellent job of developing the main character's personality and Kelly has an unwavering need to help others, making it easy for me to continue to bond with her. Kelly is also surrounded by an excellent supporting cast. I can't wait to see what happens next in Kelly's adventures. Very highly recommended.
I received a complimentary copy of this novel at my request from Kensington Books via NetGalley. This review is my own unbiased opinion.
November 21, 2022
I haven’t seen many people talking about this book or series much, which is why I wanted to review it. I became interested in this series because of its fashion focus. I love girly heroines who may seem incapable because of their fashion choices, but then prove to be capable and intelligent women. When I began reading this series, I got that image from Kelly Quinn.
The author does a good job of interspersing this series with fashion elements, but even if you aren’t into that, I think you’ll still love it. It’s well-written and easy-to-follow, so even beginner Cozy Mystery readers would like it. The heroine, Kelly, is also very relatable.
Set in Long Island, there’s a lot of charm and sophistication that follows this series, so if you’re in the mood for a boutique-style Mystery, then I would definitely recommend this one to try out.
The author does a good job of interspersing this series with fashion elements, but even if you aren’t into that, I think you’ll still love it. It’s well-written and easy-to-follow, so even beginner Cozy Mystery readers would like it. The heroine, Kelly, is also very relatable.
Set in Long Island, there’s a lot of charm and sophistication that follows this series, so if you’re in the mood for a boutique-style Mystery, then I would definitely recommend this one to try out.
December 6, 2022
Who knew befriending a new business owner down the street from your cute boutique could lead to murder and mayhem? Kelly Quinn is back in action, but the town has decided that she has lost her marbles and worn out her welcome. Will it be lights out for Kelly or will she figure it out in time to save her life and others? A diversified cast of characters makes this group a believable and realistic circle of friends, family and townsfolk. The level of personality exuded by these characters makes you connect with them much more than most and you are definitely ready to cheer them on. The plot is twisted and red herrings abound to make the mystery delightfully entertaining and keeps you turning pages into the wee hours of the morning....or maybe that was just me. I should have been asleep hours before I was, but I just couldn't put this book down! You really should start with the first book in the series as each book fleshes out the characters a bit more, the town and the relationships between the characters. However, you could read this book and enjoy it on its own, but why miss out on the hours of entertainment starting with the first book in the series would offer!
December 10, 2022
Kelly is working on handling things better but when she becomes involved in a murder case, she seems to be losing her grip. With her not so delicate questioning, she is getting into trouble with friends, acquaintances, and her boyfriend. In addition, a series of events has people wondering about Kelly's stability.
The drama surrounding Kelly is easy to get swept up in, and I liked how it was all resolved at the end. I also enjoyed the twists and turns of the mystery that had me suspecting a number of people yet never the actual murderer. Thanks to Lyrical Underground and NetGalley for an ARC. The opinions expressed are my own.
The drama surrounding Kelly is easy to get swept up in, and I liked how it was all resolved at the end. I also enjoyed the twists and turns of the mystery that had me suspecting a number of people yet never the actual murderer. Thanks to Lyrical Underground and NetGalley for an ARC. The opinions expressed are my own.
December 10, 2022
Kelly owns The Lucky Cove Resale Boutique. Along with going through closets belonging to live customers looking to clear them out and make some money, in this case she's helping a friend clear out her late mother's clothing, She has another talent - she has a knack of finding dead bodies and tracking down killers. In this, the fifth of the series, her uncle becomes prime suspect #1 when Kelly finds him standing over the dead body of Miranda, newly retuned to Lucky Cove. Kelly needs to find who wanted Miranda dead and was it a current issue or did it have something to do with her past and her crook of a husband. All Kelly wanted was to help local businesses so she joined the Chamber of Commerce. She then asks Miranda to join, too. Miranda has opened a shoe store, is new(ish) to town so it sounds like a good idea. Instead it all derails and Kelly not only has her hands full trying to clear her Uncle of Miranda's murder but she has been turfed from the chamber of Commerce and people are not happy with her. Time to sort things out and catch the killer.
This is one of my favorite series. The characters are well fleshed out and the mystery has plenty of twists, turns and a few red herrings to keep my guessing to the last page.
My thanks to the publisher Lyrical Underground Books and to NetGalley for giving me an advance copy in exchange for my honest review.
This is one of my favorite series. The characters are well fleshed out and the mystery has plenty of twists, turns and a few red herrings to keep my guessing to the last page.
My thanks to the publisher Lyrical Underground Books and to NetGalley for giving me an advance copy in exchange for my honest review.
November 14, 2022
Sleuthing in Stilettos by Debra Sennefelder is the fifth book the Resale Boutique Mystery series. Amateur sleuth Kelly Quinn seems to have a knack for discovering dead bodies. This case is a complicated one, but Kelly needs to prove her uncle didn't commit a murder. It was quite interesting following along as Kelly questioned community members and possible suspects. I have to say though at times Kelly came across a little thoughtless with her questions. No tact. There's plenty of action and suspense in this book. I enjoyed the read.
I received an ARC and this is my honest review.
I received an ARC and this is my honest review.
September 1, 2022
Thank you, NetGalley, Kennington books and Debra Sennefelder for this ARC.
Kelly is back! This time not only did she find a body but she found her uncle standing over the murder victim. This doesn't look good for her uncle especially since he had a bad history with the victim. But it turns out that there is a large list of suspects since Miranda wasn't popular with pretty much everyone in the town of Lucky Cove.
Kelly started to investigate Miranda's murder because her Uncle was a suspect. I think it is more because Kelly is nosy. The police didn't seem to really be after her uncle. It just seemed like Kelly was pretty much running around accusing everyone around as the murderer. She wasn't subtle about it and I really didn't care for her cocky attitude in this book. Yes, she has solved murders before but this time it came across that she was going to solve this one not to save her uncle but to show her detective boyfriend that she is better at solving crimes than he is. I also felt that this book had some loose ends at the end, but that could be because they will be addressed in future books.
I did enjoy this book but didn't love it like the previous books. Still one of my favorite series! #SleuthinginStilettos #NetGalley.
Kelly is back! This time not only did she find a body but she found her uncle standing over the murder victim. This doesn't look good for her uncle especially since he had a bad history with the victim. But it turns out that there is a large list of suspects since Miranda wasn't popular with pretty much everyone in the town of Lucky Cove.
Kelly started to investigate Miranda's murder because her Uncle was a suspect. I think it is more because Kelly is nosy. The police didn't seem to really be after her uncle. It just seemed like Kelly was pretty much running around accusing everyone around as the murderer. She wasn't subtle about it and I really didn't care for her cocky attitude in this book. Yes, she has solved murders before but this time it came across that she was going to solve this one not to save her uncle but to show her detective boyfriend that she is better at solving crimes than he is. I also felt that this book had some loose ends at the end, but that could be because they will be addressed in future books.
I did enjoy this book but didn't love it like the previous books. Still one of my favorite series! #SleuthinginStilettos #NetGalley.
January 28, 2023
Almost stopped reading this because Kelly was getting on my last nerve. The ending was sweet but she needs to work on not being such a witch. She came off as very unlikable and not just when the killer was messing with her. Hoping the next story is better.
August 27, 2022
I enjoyed this book. The characters are great. I was very surprised by who the killer is. The story wraps up nicely. #SleuthinginStilettos #NetGalley
November 21, 2022
5 stars. And I had no clue who the killer was until the very end.
Didn't know when I first started reading this book that it was #5. Can't wait to go back and read #1-4 in the Resale Boutique Mystery Series.
Didn't know when I first started reading this book that it was #5. Can't wait to go back and read #1-4 in the Resale Boutique Mystery Series.
October 30, 2022
Kelly is back in the fifth Resale Boutique Mystery. When Miranda Farrell returns to Lucky Cove after years away, her history comes back to haunt her. Miranda’s return to town take a turn for the worse when her body is discovered and Kelly finds herself in the middle of another murder investigation.
I have enjoyed this whole series and this book was no different, but there were a few times where Kelly seemed more full of herself than normal. When she was questioning individuals, she pretty much flat out asked them if they had murdered Miranda. That is a change from the past books and I definitely preferred the subtlety in Kelly’s sleuthing skills in the last few books. Overall, I really enjoyed this book and look forward to seeing what else is in store for this series.
This is a great cozy mystery series with inviting and likable characters, intriguing mysteries and a small town that I would love to live in! I definitely recommend this newest Resale Boutique Mystery to cozy mystery fans!
I have enjoyed this whole series and this book was no different, but there were a few times where Kelly seemed more full of herself than normal. When she was questioning individuals, she pretty much flat out asked them if they had murdered Miranda. That is a change from the past books and I definitely preferred the subtlety in Kelly’s sleuthing skills in the last few books. Overall, I really enjoyed this book and look forward to seeing what else is in store for this series.
This is a great cozy mystery series with inviting and likable characters, intriguing mysteries and a small town that I would love to live in! I definitely recommend this newest Resale Boutique Mystery to cozy mystery fans!
December 9, 2022
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy from the NetGalley. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.Sleuthing in Stilettos by Debra Sennefelder has Kelly Quinn questioning her sanity while trying to keep her uncle out of jail.
Will Kelly figure out who killed Miranda? Can she restore the townspeople's faith in her?
Kelly Quinn
Kelly has a good life right now. A boyfriend that actually seems to like her and not boss her around, a thriving business, and being a part of the community she has learned to love. The problem is that a new business owner, who Kelly thought could be her friend, doesn't belong there, and her death has made it hard for Kelly with the townspeople who once trusted her. In every book I read in this series, Kelly keeps on growing as a character and leaves behind her ideology of what she knew in New York. I love Kelly and how she's dealing with everything that has happened. Sure, she's having a hard time dealing with her grief from her cousin's death, but she's working through it. If I were to see Kelly on the streets, as a living person, I would envy her fashion sense but probably be too scared to say hi because of how great she is.
The Victim and Mystery
Miranda Farrell is back in Lucky Cove after leaving twenty years ago. The victim has a lot of skeletons in her closet. Kelly finds them as she investigates her death. Miranda lost two husbands and left Lucky Cove to start over again. She returned because she wanted a second chance and to start a business there. As Kelly is investigating, she discovers that maybe everything is connected but doesn't know how. Poor Kelly is beginning to think she is going crazy along with the townsfolk. I had no clue who did it until the murderer revealed themselves and why they did it. My mind was utterly blown.
Five Stars
Sleuthing in Stilettos by Debra Sennefelder is another fantastic book by this author. I love every mystery that Ms. Sennefelder has written, and I can't wait to read more from her. Ms. Sennefelder stumped me, as I couldn't figure out whodunit. None of the red herrings stuck with me, so I didn't have anyone in my mind like I usually do. I am giving five stars to Sleuthing in Stilettos by Debra Sennefelder and recommending it to everyone. It takes place during the fall through Thanksgiving.
The Resale Boutique Mystery Series
Prize: Two $10.00 Amazon Gift Cards
Will Kelly figure out who killed Miranda? Can she restore the townspeople's faith in her?
Kelly Quinn
Kelly has a good life right now. A boyfriend that actually seems to like her and not boss her around, a thriving business, and being a part of the community she has learned to love. The problem is that a new business owner, who Kelly thought could be her friend, doesn't belong there, and her death has made it hard for Kelly with the townspeople who once trusted her. In every book I read in this series, Kelly keeps on growing as a character and leaves behind her ideology of what she knew in New York. I love Kelly and how she's dealing with everything that has happened. Sure, she's having a hard time dealing with her grief from her cousin's death, but she's working through it. If I were to see Kelly on the streets, as a living person, I would envy her fashion sense but probably be too scared to say hi because of how great she is.
The Victim and Mystery Miranda Farrell is back in Lucky Cove after leaving twenty years ago. The victim has a lot of skeletons in her closet. Kelly finds them as she investigates her death. Miranda lost two husbands and left Lucky Cove to start over again. She returned because she wanted a second chance and to start a business there. As Kelly is investigating, she discovers that maybe everything is connected but doesn't know how. Poor Kelly is beginning to think she is going crazy along with the townsfolk. I had no clue who did it until the murderer revealed themselves and why they did it. My mind was utterly blown.
Five Stars
Sleuthing in Stilettos by Debra Sennefelder is another fantastic book by this author. I love every mystery that Ms. Sennefelder has written, and I can't wait to read more from her. Ms. Sennefelder stumped me, as I couldn't figure out whodunit. None of the red herrings stuck with me, so I didn't have anyone in my mind like I usually do. I am giving five stars to Sleuthing in Stilettos by Debra Sennefelder and recommending it to everyone. It takes place during the fall through Thanksgiving.
The Resale Boutique Mystery Series
Prize: Two $10.00 Amazon Gift Cards
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This review was originally posted on Baroness' Book Trove
September 9, 2022
Book review of my latest book 📖. Sleuthing in Stilettos by Debra Sennefelder
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This is the first book I have read by her but I loved it.
Thank you to @netgalley and @kensingtonbooks for my arc of this book.
It will be out December 6, 2022 and I recommend grabbing it!
Amateur sleuth Kelly Quinn owns a consignment shop, she inherited from her grandmother. She is involved in her Chamber of Commerce and invites Miranda Farrell, owner of the new shoe store to their meeting. At the meeting, Kelly finds out that Miranda is not liked at all in their small town.
So when Kelly and two of her friends finds Kelly's uncle standing over Miranda's dead body, Kelly has to investigate.
Her detective boyfriend is dead set against that but Kelly plunges ahead. Then strange things start to happen to her, she "forgets" to lock the door, her cat gets out and her presentation is sabotaged. Is she losing it or is someone trying to derail her?
Great characters, loved all the fashion references and I always enjoy a great mystery!
#NetGalley #crazybooknerd #bookstagram #SleuthinginStilletos #iloveagoodmystery
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This is the first book I have read by her but I loved it.
Thank you to @netgalley and @kensingtonbooks for my arc of this book.
It will be out December 6, 2022 and I recommend grabbing it!
Amateur sleuth Kelly Quinn owns a consignment shop, she inherited from her grandmother. She is involved in her Chamber of Commerce and invites Miranda Farrell, owner of the new shoe store to their meeting. At the meeting, Kelly finds out that Miranda is not liked at all in their small town.
So when Kelly and two of her friends finds Kelly's uncle standing over Miranda's dead body, Kelly has to investigate.
Her detective boyfriend is dead set against that but Kelly plunges ahead. Then strange things start to happen to her, she "forgets" to lock the door, her cat gets out and her presentation is sabotaged. Is she losing it or is someone trying to derail her?
Great characters, loved all the fashion references and I always enjoy a great mystery!
#NetGalley #crazybooknerd #bookstagram #SleuthinginStilletos #iloveagoodmystery
December 13, 2022
Kelly Quinn has had a tough year, the death of close cousin, being forced to keep a secret for the sake of family, and the possible loss of a lifelong friendship. Keeping busy seems to help, there are always new consignors and the Shop Small Saturday event planning helps, but is it too much? Things seem to go missing and Kelly isn’t remembering to lock doors or send messages, is she getting overwhelmed? Kelly doesn’t think so, and when she and her part time Boutique clerk Breena find shoe store owner Miranda, dead and Kelly’s uncle Ralph standing over her body…Again, Kelly is asked to help family and make sure that uncle Ralph is off of the suspect list. It shouldn’t be too hard, not one single person has said one good thing about Miranda Farrell’s return since she left Lucky Cover twenty years ago under a dark cloud and two dead husbands. Kelly is the sort of sleuth who can ask the tough questions, although it doesn’t make her popular. She is also smart enough to share what she learns with her sort of boyfriend, Detective Nate Barber. So many suspects and are they ever touchy about being questioned, are they hiding something or is it a bit of red herring? Plenty of backstory, so yes this is a stand-alone cozy mystery but you will want to read the others to see just how much Kelly has become a party of the community which has become part of her family.
September 7, 2022
Kelly Quinn is back again in Sleuthing in Stilettos, a new book by Debra Sennefelder. Number 5 in the series, A Resale Boutique Mystery. Thanks to Net Galley for the ARC of this book.
Kelly is the owner of The Lucky Cove Resale Boutique, and befriends a new business owner Miranda. She quickly discovers that Miranda has a history in the town and its members are not quite as welcoming as Kelly. Soon after a disastrous Chamber of Commerce meeting, Kelly finds Miranda dead I n her shop and her uncle is standing nearby. Kelly takes on the burden of proving he uncle’s innocence. However, she has her own problems when things in her life go astray. Missing keys, unlocked doors, sabotaged presentation all have Kelly off kilter, but she is determined to find the real killer.
Plenty of twists and turns, another murder, and several injuries are found on the way to the unexpected ending. I normally do not read series out of order, but the title intrigued me. I found the many characters and references to past books confusing, so would not recommend this as a stand-alone book. However, Debra intertwines small town living with believable characters. Can’t wait to read the first 4 of the series.
Kelly is the owner of The Lucky Cove Resale Boutique, and befriends a new business owner Miranda. She quickly discovers that Miranda has a history in the town and its members are not quite as welcoming as Kelly. Soon after a disastrous Chamber of Commerce meeting, Kelly finds Miranda dead I n her shop and her uncle is standing nearby. Kelly takes on the burden of proving he uncle’s innocence. However, she has her own problems when things in her life go astray. Missing keys, unlocked doors, sabotaged presentation all have Kelly off kilter, but she is determined to find the real killer.
Plenty of twists and turns, another murder, and several injuries are found on the way to the unexpected ending. I normally do not read series out of order, but the title intrigued me. I found the many characters and references to past books confusing, so would not recommend this as a stand-alone book. However, Debra intertwines small town living with believable characters. Can’t wait to read the first 4 of the series.
December 3, 2022
And just like that, Kelly seemed to grow up after this mystery was solved. Just when it appeared she'd never be anything but a kind-hearted, question-spouting, self-centered fashionista, the last couple weeks in her life really caused her to seem more mature by the end of the book. Kelly's definitely someone you'd want for a friend even though she's got this unbelievable way of making people mad by accusing them of murder. But her heart's always in the right place and somehow she ends up forgiven. Nothing mattered more to Kelly than her family and friends as you'll see when you read about their Thanksgiving.
Boy was that an exciting showdown! I was so happy Kelly had reconciled with her buddy Ariel and I'll just say it was a good thing she came along! I liked where this ended with Kelly and Nate in a very nice place in a relationship as well as Kelly being completely happy now that she was where she belonged. Don't miss this latest installment when it releases Tuesday, December 6, 2022.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an ARC of this book provided by Kensington Cozies via NetGalley, an my opinions are my own.
Boy was that an exciting showdown! I was so happy Kelly had reconciled with her buddy Ariel and I'll just say it was a good thing she came along! I liked where this ended with Kelly and Nate in a very nice place in a relationship as well as Kelly being completely happy now that she was where she belonged. Don't miss this latest installment when it releases Tuesday, December 6, 2022.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an ARC of this book provided by Kensington Cozies via NetGalley, an my opinions are my own.
December 10, 2022
This fifth installment to the Resale Boutique Mystery series is a solid addition to the series. Kelly’s uncle becomes the prime suspect in the murder of a shoe store owner who recently returned to town. She has a history, and not in a good way, with many of the residents. Ralph is found standing over her body and of course he would be a suspect since they had many heated public confrontations. Kelly and her uncle may have their issues, but she knows he’s not a killer. I thought this was a very good book. The mystery was good, the characters have very distinct personalities, the family and community dynamics add depth to the story and there’s a bit of romance. The only negative for me personally is that Kelly often lacks tact and compassion when she questions people. Also since she’s been successful in solving previous murders, she seems to think that she’s more capable of finding the killer than the police. Solving the murder before the detective seems to be her goal rather than finding justice for the victims. This detracted a bit from my enjoyment of what is a good mystery.
March 26, 2023
Princess Fuzzypants here: Kelly is investigating the murder of a fellow merchant after her uncle is discovered standing over the body. The woman had just returned to town recently having left many years earlier under several clouds to her reputation. Those who knew her thought she was a gold digger at best and a thief and murderer at worst. Needless to say, there were lots of people who were not happy to see her again other than her uncle. Which one of them is the killer?
Here is where the book went off the rails for me. Kelly is, in spite of her cop boyfriend’s pleas, is determined to solve the murder but she is so ham-fisted in her questioning that it is no wonder she antagonizes everyone. Tact and finesse are lacking and she is lucky the killer took so long to put a target on her back. I have enjoyed the series. I do not recall her being so tone deaf. It detracted from an otherwise interesting premise. Even her kitty cannot save it for me. Three purrs and one paw up.
Here is where the book went off the rails for me. Kelly is, in spite of her cop boyfriend’s pleas, is determined to solve the murder but she is so ham-fisted in her questioning that it is no wonder she antagonizes everyone. Tact and finesse are lacking and she is lucky the killer took so long to put a target on her back. I have enjoyed the series. I do not recall her being so tone deaf. It detracted from an otherwise interesting premise. Even her kitty cannot save it for me. Three purrs and one paw up.
January 10, 2023
I was provided this ARC by Netgalley and the Publisher in exchange for an honest review.
Let me start by saying this is the first book I read in this series.
Not my favorite cozy.
I liked Kelly Quinn a lot - I did not care for the rest of the characters in this fictional Long Island Town. The way they treated Kelly as she was investigating turned me off. I kept trying to see what was not working for me. The mystery was okay, although the reason behind it was crazy - that worked for me.
What didn't..... Uncle Ralph, and various store owners, - the way they treated Kelly, and in some cases just stopped talking to her was terrible. I get it, we need some discourse but this is a cozy - I wasn't expecting that much discord.
Anyways, not my favorite read.
Let me start by saying this is the first book I read in this series.
Not my favorite cozy.
I liked Kelly Quinn a lot - I did not care for the rest of the characters in this fictional Long Island Town. The way they treated Kelly as she was investigating turned me off. I kept trying to see what was not working for me. The mystery was okay, although the reason behind it was crazy - that worked for me.
What didn't..... Uncle Ralph, and various store owners, - the way they treated Kelly, and in some cases just stopped talking to her was terrible. I get it, we need some discourse but this is a cozy - I wasn't expecting that much discord.
Anyways, not my favorite read.
November 19, 2022
Kelly rebuilt her life and her grandmother's business when she moved home to Lucky Cove so why can't Miranda do the same? Well, because someone has murdered her. Turns out Miranda has a long and fractious back story in town and someone is really unhappy that she's going to open a shoe store. That person wasn't Kelly's uncle (of course not!) so she sets off to find who among those who disliked Miranda is the real villain. This classic cozy is enlivened by the antics of the Chamber of Commerce and Kelly's efforts to do something a little new for Small Business Saturday. It's obviously part of a series but should be fine as a standalone. Thanks to Netgalley for the ARC. For cozy fans.
November 26, 2022
Sleuthing in Stilettos is the 5th book in the Resale Boutique Mysteries and is a great addition. Kelly Quinn owns a Consignment Shop. A store owner who has returned to Lucky Cove ends up dead. Kelly's Uncle becomes the prime suspect. Kelly abruptly asks people if they murdered either of the two people. I guess it is one way to find out. Kelly's relationships with Nate, her family and Ariel add to the story. The characters are likable, the mystery kept me guessing and there are other things going on to keep the book interesting. This was an enjoyable cozy mystery. I received an advance copy from NetGalley and Kensington Books for an honest review. #NetGalley #SleuthingInStilettos
January 17, 2023
Kelly Quinn is enjoying the current success of her resale shop. She seems to have finally settled into her groove. Now if she could just stay away from murders and dead bodies. Unfortunately, the latest death of a local shopkeeper is being blamed on Kelly's uncle. She's determined to get to the bottom of the mystery and clear her uncle's name.
Fun and interesting cozy mystery. Great characters and plenty of twists and turns to keep me guessing. How fun would it be to own a resale shop?
Many thanks to Kensington/Lyrical Press and NetGalley for an advance copy of this book. My thoughts and opinions are my own and without bias or favor or expectation.
Fun and interesting cozy mystery. Great characters and plenty of twists and turns to keep me guessing. How fun would it be to own a resale shop?
Many thanks to Kensington/Lyrical Press and NetGalley for an advance copy of this book. My thoughts and opinions are my own and without bias or favor or expectation.
December 12, 2022
Unfortunately, I don't think I'll be reading any more of this series; I had a really hard time with this book and specifically how are MC went about "solving" the case. This time around, everyone seemed very mean; Frankie and how he was with Pepper and trying to get Kelly's help, Kelly basically just bluntly asking everyone if they were the killer, her attitude with Nate saying he just needed a break from her while he was solving the case.....it was all too much for me. I did enjoy the last few chapters of the book and how it all wrapped up though.
November 28, 2022
This book was just ok for me because the story was a little slow to get going. Sadly I did not connect with the characters. Perhaps I would have if I’d started with book one.
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February 18, 2023looking forward to seeing the relationship between Kelly and Nate evolve.
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