A Stitch in Time: A Needlecraft Mystery

I read these books years ago and remembered enjoying them very much although I had forgotten many of the plot points. I'm gifted with a poor memory of content but general feeling of enjoyment so it has been lovely revisiting them. I recommend this and all Ms. Ferris's books to anyone who enjoys cozies, needlework, gay men (I love gay men, most make wonderful friends), and cats. There's no romance gumming up the works (yet) so that is a nice change from the genre trope of the protagonist falling for the handsome sheriff. Needleworkers will love the setting and, !like me, wish Crewel World was a real place where we could spend lots of time and money. Godwin and I would be besties and I would always bring a special treat for Sophie (catnip mice instead of food; she's watching her figure).

This is my second book in the series, and I think I liked it better than the first that I read (Cutwork). This is definitely a women's mystery (or men who do needle crafts). Set around Christmas time in frozen Minnesota, the plot involves an incomplete and mildewed tapestry found in a church. The tapestry was clearly the work of the previous rector's wife -- she died of a heart attack and didn't finish it -- and he suffered a severe stroke and is in a nursing home. Betsy, who has inherited a needlecraft store in this cozy little Minnesota town (you can really picture it from the descriptions), is asked to contribute some wool to complete it. When she goes to inspect it, she notices some unusual details that intrigue her.Shortly afterwords, Betsy ends up stuck in a ditch -- is it an accident? If not, what's going on?I look forward to reading more in this series. This was a book that whenever I had to put it down and go to work, I looked forward to getting back to.

The storyline is complex, the character development is growing stronger & ixm loving this series. The discussion between stitches reminds me of conversations with my fellow watercolorists, our passions color our description & approach to the world. Betsy is a great sleuth & Jill is a marvelous backup. Thanks to Monica Ferris for creating a wonderful place to escape into.

received on time and in good condition.

This is a great series to read. All of the books are interesting and hold your attention. They just tell stories set in a small town. It includes everyone and their secrets, just like a small town does.