A Crafter Knits a Clue by Holly Quinn

Author Holly Quinn brings a new series to the cozy mystery genre in her first book in “A Handcrafted Mystery” series. “A Crafter Knits a Clue" is fun, entertaining, and has a great cast of characters. As with most firsts in a series, there are some slow parts to start. That is a necessity, it seems, in order to introduce the setting and characters to the reader. Once that was done, this was a fast- paced read, full of intrigue, and keeping the reader glued to the book. Sammy Kane is a good protagonist that I am sure will become more and more likeable as the series progresses. Set in Sammy’s hometown of Heartsford, Wisconsin, the protagonist returns for a funeral and ends up staying. I enjoyed the setting as well as the characters. While dealing with the tragedy of losing her best friend Kate, Sammy learns that the store that meant the world to Kate and also means so much to the community is going to close. Sammy and her golden retriever Bara take it over and keep it going in honor of her dear friend. Unfortunately there is a competing yarn/craft store in the area too. Its owner is a pain in the neck. Sammy goes over to help Ingrid (the competing owner) and finds she has a real pain in the neck, as a knitting needle is sticking out of her throat and she will no longer be a bother to anyone. With new detective in town Liam Nash assigned to the case, Sammy may just have to help find the killer...not just because of her desire for justice and the right person being arrested, but also just maybe to get better acquainted with Liam. Sammy is no stranger to investigating mysteries. When she was a youngster, she had a detective club with her sister and their cousin. Can she help find the answers needed to knit together the real facts and help Liam before she becomes a victim herself? And can she do it without hurting the budding friendship (that is bound to become more) with Liam? And all of this is going on while they are trying to get things ready for the annual Spring Fling. I think I am going to really enjoy this new series. I love the setting, the community and friendships in the town are wonderful. I love the fact that Bara the golden plays a part in the town as well. Dogs rule, lol. Author Holly Quinn has a relatable and enjoyable writing style that brings the reader in and kept me interested throughout. Give her time to set up the series in the first section of the book, the payoff is well worth it. “A Crafter Knits a Clue” is a well written and fun cozy that is surely just the beginning of a wonderful series. I cannot wait for the next book.