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Mainely Needlepoint #7
Thread Herrings
Angie's first auction may turn out to be her last--when she bids on a coat of arms that someone would literally kill to possess . . .
Tagging along to an estate sale with her fellow Needlepointer, antiques shop owner Sarah Byrne, Angie Curtis impulsively bids on a tattered embroidery of a coat of arms. When she gets her prize back home to Haven Harbor, she discovers a document from 1757 behind the framed needlework--a claim for a child from a foundling hospital. Intrigued, Angie is determined to find the common thread between the child and the coat of arms.
Accepting her reporter friend Clem Walker's invitation to talk about her find on the local TV news, Angie makes an appeal to anyone who might have information. Instead, both women receive death threats. When Clem is found shot to death in a parking lot, Angie fears her own life may be in jeopardy. She has to unravel this historical mystery--or she may be the next one going, going . . . gone . . .
Tagging along to an estate sale with her fellow Needlepointer, antiques shop owner Sarah Byrne, Angie Curtis impulsively bids on a tattered embroidery of a coat of arms. When she gets her prize back home to Haven Harbor, she discovers a document from 1757 behind the framed needlework--a claim for a child from a foundling hospital. Intrigued, Angie is determined to find the common thread between the child and the coat of arms.
Accepting her reporter friend Clem Walker's invitation to talk about her find on the local TV news, Angie makes an appeal to anyone who might have information. Instead, both women receive death threats. When Clem is found shot to death in a parking lot, Angie fears her own life may be in jeopardy. She has to unravel this historical mystery--or she may be the next one going, going . . . gone . . .
388 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published October 30, 2018
About the author
Lea Wait
30 books499 followersMaine author Lea Wait writes the NYT-praised 8-book Shadows Antique Print Mystery series, the latest of which is SHADWS ON A MORNING IN MAINE, and the USA Today best-selling Mainely Needlepoint series which debuted with TWISTED THREADS in January, 2015, and was followed by THREADS OF EVIDENCE in August, 2015, THREAD AND GONE, in January, 2016, DANGLING BY A THREAD in late October, 2016, and TIGHTENING THE THREADS in March, 2017. Wait also writes acclaimed historical novels for ages 8 and up set in 19th century Maine, the latest of which, UNCERTAIN GLORY, takes place in a small northern town during the first two weeks of the Civil War. Lea's LIVING AND WRITING ON THE COAST OF MAINE, about being an author and living year 'round in Maine with a husband who's an artist also includes writing tips. Lea did her undergraduate work at Chatham College (now University) in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and her graduate work at New York University. While she was raising the four daughters she adopted as a single parent she worked as a manager for AT&T. Now she writes full time and speaks at schools and libraries. She loves rowing, visiting historical sites, and, of course, reading and writing. See her website,
www.leawait.com, and the blog she writes with other Maine Mystery writers, http://www.mainecrimewriters.com, friend her on FB and Goodreads, and, if you'd like to be on her email list to find out when her next book will be published, send her your email address write to her at leawait@roadrunner.com
www.leawait.com, and the blog she writes with other Maine Mystery writers, http://www.mainecrimewriters.com, friend her on FB and Goodreads, and, if you'd like to be on her email list to find out when her next book will be published, send her your email address write to her at leawait@roadrunner.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 139 reviews
January 26, 2021
Thread Herrings is the 7th book in the Mainely Needlepoint cozy mystery series written by Lea Wait. I've been binge-reading the series the last month, even though there are only two more left. I find everything about them to be wonderful and will be sad when they are finished. Unfortunately, this one was probably my least favorite so far, but it was still good and kept me focused and interested. Shall we chat about why?
Let's cover the negatives first this time. While I normally hardly notice any proofreading / grammar / style issues, nor do I comment on them... there were several repeated lines that actually caused me to stop and flip back to determine if I'd accidentally started rereading a section. Of course, this is minor, but when it stops a reader from a good flow, it's a bit too much.
Also, the mystery was a let down. It began with a spark--embroidery at an auction holds a curious secret. Angie, our main character, goes on TV to ask for anyone who might help... and then, the reporter is killed and Angie almost dies in a separate incident. I was thrilled to find out what happened, but the suspect list stopped at 2 or 3 people, and the history leading from 1757 (when the embroidery was made) until now floundered. The concept, while intriguing, didn't have a strong enough rationale for murder.
I did enjoy the genealogical aspects of the tale. I liked the growth between Patrick and Angie, and Angie and Sarah. Getting to know Pete more was also helpful, so there were bunches of positives. I love the setting and learning about auctions. So it was an enjoyable read, but I couldn't get all jazzed up about the plot or the end product. The book sorta just said "and here's who did it, so we're done." It worries me some about the remaining two books, but I am committed to finishing them this month. When I compare this book to the rest, I can't give it 4 or 5 star... so I will settle on a 3 rating. I still liked it and would recommend the series, but I want to jump back to a solid one next, hopefully.
Let's cover the negatives first this time. While I normally hardly notice any proofreading / grammar / style issues, nor do I comment on them... there were several repeated lines that actually caused me to stop and flip back to determine if I'd accidentally started rereading a section. Of course, this is minor, but when it stops a reader from a good flow, it's a bit too much.
Also, the mystery was a let down. It began with a spark--embroidery at an auction holds a curious secret. Angie, our main character, goes on TV to ask for anyone who might help... and then, the reporter is killed and Angie almost dies in a separate incident. I was thrilled to find out what happened, but the suspect list stopped at 2 or 3 people, and the history leading from 1757 (when the embroidery was made) until now floundered. The concept, while intriguing, didn't have a strong enough rationale for murder.
I did enjoy the genealogical aspects of the tale. I liked the growth between Patrick and Angie, and Angie and Sarah. Getting to know Pete more was also helpful, so there were bunches of positives. I love the setting and learning about auctions. So it was an enjoyable read, but I couldn't get all jazzed up about the plot or the end product. The book sorta just said "and here's who did it, so we're done." It worries me some about the remaining two books, but I am committed to finishing them this month. When I compare this book to the rest, I can't give it 4 or 5 star... so I will settle on a 3 rating. I still liked it and would recommend the series, but I want to jump back to a solid one next, hopefully.
November 10, 2018
Dollycas’s Thoughts
Finding treasures at auctions and estate sales is part of the fun, but for Angie Curtis it means MURDER! Her friend, a television reporter is dead and Angie is getting threatened that she will be next.
Antique shop owner Sarah Byrne takes Angie to her first auction and she is drawn to a needlework coat of arms. When no one else bids she raises her paddle and takes it home. She takes it out of the frame to see if it can be restored but she finds a real mystery instead, a claim from 1757 for a child from a foundling hospital. While researching to see if the child is connected to the family from the auction she runs into Clem Walker who suggests they do a piece on the local news to see if one of the viewers may have information. Angie agrees and even hosts a party so her family and friends can watch her on television.
Clem plans a trip to visit Angie in Haven Harbor to discuss the calls the station received. But Clem doesn’t make the meeting, instead, her body is found. Angie knows to find Clem’s killer she has to find who is connected to the coat of arms. The trouble is to keep her safe she is hiding out and it’s hard to investigate anything stuck in a house.
There is so much I enjoyed about this story. It had a totally different feel. The Mainely Needlepointers didn’t do hardly any needle pointing but one member of the group, Ruth, is a key player in solving this mystery. Also, Angie accepts that her life is truly in danger after a hairraising event and actually listens to the police and moves to Patrick’s secure home until the killer is caught. As long as she has her cell phone and laptop she can keep investigating and pass along what she finds to the police.
At the core of the story are two prominent Maine families. I love the way 79-year-old erotica author Ruth Hopkins knows her way around the genealogy sites. She delves in and finds as much as she can about the families giving Angie plenty of clues and red herrings to sort through.
All of Ms. Wait’s characters are interesting, fleshed out and realistic. Most of the recurring characters are very engaging. Patrick is starting to mesh with the rest but still has some work to do. The closer he and Angie get the more he becomes more real to me.
The story is pretty fast-paced and filled with suspense. Key characters are truly in danger and I found myself actually holding my breath waiting to read the actual outcome. I know I was reading much faster from about the midpoint on. The author’s descriptions of each person, place, and even the weather were fantastic. She pulls readers right into this story and holds them tight until the final page. OMG, my heart was racing at the ending!
Before my accident auctions and needlepoint were two of my favorite things. Finding samplers and other needlework treasures at auctions always made for a great day. I love that both meshed together in this book.
This book reads very well all in its own but I always recommend reading series in order to really get to know the characters.
This is a wonderful addition to this series. The next book in the series, Thread on Arrival, will be released April 30, 2019.
Finding treasures at auctions and estate sales is part of the fun, but for Angie Curtis it means MURDER! Her friend, a television reporter is dead and Angie is getting threatened that she will be next.
Antique shop owner Sarah Byrne takes Angie to her first auction and she is drawn to a needlework coat of arms. When no one else bids she raises her paddle and takes it home. She takes it out of the frame to see if it can be restored but she finds a real mystery instead, a claim from 1757 for a child from a foundling hospital. While researching to see if the child is connected to the family from the auction she runs into Clem Walker who suggests they do a piece on the local news to see if one of the viewers may have information. Angie agrees and even hosts a party so her family and friends can watch her on television.
Clem plans a trip to visit Angie in Haven Harbor to discuss the calls the station received. But Clem doesn’t make the meeting, instead, her body is found. Angie knows to find Clem’s killer she has to find who is connected to the coat of arms. The trouble is to keep her safe she is hiding out and it’s hard to investigate anything stuck in a house.
There is so much I enjoyed about this story. It had a totally different feel. The Mainely Needlepointers didn’t do hardly any needle pointing but one member of the group, Ruth, is a key player in solving this mystery. Also, Angie accepts that her life is truly in danger after a hairraising event and actually listens to the police and moves to Patrick’s secure home until the killer is caught. As long as she has her cell phone and laptop she can keep investigating and pass along what she finds to the police.
At the core of the story are two prominent Maine families. I love the way 79-year-old erotica author Ruth Hopkins knows her way around the genealogy sites. She delves in and finds as much as she can about the families giving Angie plenty of clues and red herrings to sort through.
All of Ms. Wait’s characters are interesting, fleshed out and realistic. Most of the recurring characters are very engaging. Patrick is starting to mesh with the rest but still has some work to do. The closer he and Angie get the more he becomes more real to me.
The story is pretty fast-paced and filled with suspense. Key characters are truly in danger and I found myself actually holding my breath waiting to read the actual outcome. I know I was reading much faster from about the midpoint on. The author’s descriptions of each person, place, and even the weather were fantastic. She pulls readers right into this story and holds them tight until the final page. OMG, my heart was racing at the ending!
Before my accident auctions and needlepoint were two of my favorite things. Finding samplers and other needlework treasures at auctions always made for a great day. I love that both meshed together in this book.
This book reads very well all in its own but I always recommend reading series in order to really get to know the characters.
This is a wonderful addition to this series. The next book in the series, Thread on Arrival, will be released April 30, 2019.
September 25, 2018
The seventh book in the Needlepoint series is very creative and original for a cozy mystery. I have been reading for 75 years and almost exclusive mysteries since 2013. I have never seen the way the main adventures used in the way. It was a pleasure to read how the protagonist didn't do anything stupid but still managed to solve the crime.
Angie Curtis goes to her first auction with her friend Sarah to learn about auctions. Angie sees an old faded needlepoint of a coat of arms and buys it. At home, she removes the back and a receipt for a child from a foundling nursery in the 1700's and a pink ribbon to identify the child. A chance meeting with a friend who is a TV reporter for a Boston TV station, a one-minute human interest report is made. Shortly, after it airs the station received a message that all who investigate would day. The next Cl Walker is shot in her car. Angie and her friends work to make sure Angie is not hurt. There is an explosion that injured her stepfather and there other strange events. The motive is strange and surprised me. I HIGHLY RECOMMEND THIS BOOK AND SERIES. One pasta recipe is included.
Disclosure: Many thanks to Kensington Books for a review copy. The opinions expressed are my own.
Angie Curtis goes to her first auction with her friend Sarah to learn about auctions. Angie sees an old faded needlepoint of a coat of arms and buys it. At home, she removes the back and a receipt for a child from a foundling nursery in the 1700's and a pink ribbon to identify the child. A chance meeting with a friend who is a TV reporter for a Boston TV station, a one-minute human interest report is made. Shortly, after it airs the station received a message that all who investigate would day. The next Cl Walker is shot in her car. Angie and her friends work to make sure Angie is not hurt. There is an explosion that injured her stepfather and there other strange events. The motive is strange and surprised me. I HIGHLY RECOMMEND THIS BOOK AND SERIES. One pasta recipe is included.
Disclosure: Many thanks to Kensington Books for a review copy. The opinions expressed are my own.
September 16, 2018
Thread Herring is the seventh book in the A Mainely Needlepointer Mystery series. I love this series and feel that Thread Herring is the best so far.
It’s February in Haven Harbor and Angie and her friend, Sarah Byrne, are heading to Augusta, ME to attend an antique auction. Sarah will be looking for items for her antique store, while Angie is going along to see what an auction is like and possibly find some embroidery items. At the preview for the auction items, Angie finds an interesting embroidered coat of arms and time has not been kind to it, but something about it tells her to bid on it.
Angie is the only to bid on the item and when she gets home she takes it out of the frame to get a better look at whether any it might be repaired. What she doesn’t expect to find is a folded piece of paper that is a receipt for baby Charles that was left with the London Foundling Hospital in 1757. Angie determines that the coat of arms is unrepairable, but she now wants to find out who baby Charles’ family was.
Her boyfriend, Patrick West is going to visit with a sculptor about showing his work and Patrick’s gallery and agrees to drop Angie off in Portland where she will visit the Maine Historical Society. The visit there didn’t give much hope of learning anything. While waiting for Patrick to return she calls a high school classmate, Clem Walker, a reporter at a Portland television station. When Clem hears the story she convinces Angie that they do a short segment to be aired on the station asking viewers to call if they might have any information about baby Charles or the coat of arms. A minute or two after the segment aired, the station received a threat that is Clem and Angie attempted to learn more, they would be killed. The next day the station got another threat and Angie receives a threatening the same thing.
Soon, Clem’s lifeless body is found in her car near Harbor Haunts where she and Angie are to have lunch. Then the next day while Angie is talking to Sarah in her store there is an explosion and when she looks outside she finds that the explosion was in her car and is now on fire.
Pete Lambert, Haven Harbor policeman and Ethan Trask, Maine State Trooper, are able to convince Angie to stay at Patrick’s house until the killer can be arrested. Since Angie’s computer has been taken by the police, she calls on fellow Maine Needlepointer to help scour the internet looking for clues as to who baby Charles is.
As much as Angie wants to be out and about investigating, she knows her life is likely online and stays holed up at Patrick’s, hoping that Ruth will be able to learn who Charles’ family was.
As always, Lea Wait provides the reader with a well-researched, well-plotted and told story and believable characters. Wait also provides the reader with the workings of an auction and an insightful look at the London Foundling Hospital. Once again, each chapter has either a description of an embroidered piece or a quote from a publication from 1700-1800’s.
A delicious sounding recipe is also included.
I am eagerly awaiting the next book in this informative series.
It’s February in Haven Harbor and Angie and her friend, Sarah Byrne, are heading to Augusta, ME to attend an antique auction. Sarah will be looking for items for her antique store, while Angie is going along to see what an auction is like and possibly find some embroidery items. At the preview for the auction items, Angie finds an interesting embroidered coat of arms and time has not been kind to it, but something about it tells her to bid on it.
Angie is the only to bid on the item and when she gets home she takes it out of the frame to get a better look at whether any it might be repaired. What she doesn’t expect to find is a folded piece of paper that is a receipt for baby Charles that was left with the London Foundling Hospital in 1757. Angie determines that the coat of arms is unrepairable, but she now wants to find out who baby Charles’ family was.
Her boyfriend, Patrick West is going to visit with a sculptor about showing his work and Patrick’s gallery and agrees to drop Angie off in Portland where she will visit the Maine Historical Society. The visit there didn’t give much hope of learning anything. While waiting for Patrick to return she calls a high school classmate, Clem Walker, a reporter at a Portland television station. When Clem hears the story she convinces Angie that they do a short segment to be aired on the station asking viewers to call if they might have any information about baby Charles or the coat of arms. A minute or two after the segment aired, the station received a threat that is Clem and Angie attempted to learn more, they would be killed. The next day the station got another threat and Angie receives a threatening the same thing.
Soon, Clem’s lifeless body is found in her car near Harbor Haunts where she and Angie are to have lunch. Then the next day while Angie is talking to Sarah in her store there is an explosion and when she looks outside she finds that the explosion was in her car and is now on fire.
Pete Lambert, Haven Harbor policeman and Ethan Trask, Maine State Trooper, are able to convince Angie to stay at Patrick’s house until the killer can be arrested. Since Angie’s computer has been taken by the police, she calls on fellow Maine Needlepointer to help scour the internet looking for clues as to who baby Charles is.
As much as Angie wants to be out and about investigating, she knows her life is likely online and stays holed up at Patrick’s, hoping that Ruth will be able to learn who Charles’ family was.
As always, Lea Wait provides the reader with a well-researched, well-plotted and told story and believable characters. Wait also provides the reader with the workings of an auction and an insightful look at the London Foundling Hospital. Once again, each chapter has either a description of an embroidered piece or a quote from a publication from 1700-1800’s.
A delicious sounding recipe is also included.
I am eagerly awaiting the next book in this informative series.
November 9, 2018
The Mainely Needlepoint Mystery series is one of my favorite cozy mystery series. I only pre-order 4 or 5 series because they are my favorites and I don't want to wait to read them. This is a series I pre-order. Why do I like this series so much?
First of all, it is a little edgier than other cozy series. Angie was a PI assistant in Arizona before moving back to Maine. She has a Glock that she doesn't carry but is handy if she needs it. In this book, with her life in danger she did take out her Glock and took it with her.
I like the descriptions of Maine. I notice in this book the use of the word wicked a lot. Then I received my L.L. Bean magazine in the mail and they were describing some bedroom slippers as wicked. Yes, I guess it is a Maine descriptive word.
I like the characters especially Angie who is smart and independent. She used common sense and tried to stay out of danger's way. The police are portrayed in a positive light which is different than many cozies.
This book was suspenseful and page turning. Angie was in real danger. The killing and threats didn't make sense as it all seemed linked to a 250 year old coat of arms needlework in bad shape that was purchased at an auction.
Some reviewers have called this book the best of the series. I agree except I must add that book one was my favorite as it drew me into Angie's life. This book is one of the best of the series- right up there with book 1.
First of all, it is a little edgier than other cozy series. Angie was a PI assistant in Arizona before moving back to Maine. She has a Glock that she doesn't carry but is handy if she needs it. In this book, with her life in danger she did take out her Glock and took it with her.
I like the descriptions of Maine. I notice in this book the use of the word wicked a lot. Then I received my L.L. Bean magazine in the mail and they were describing some bedroom slippers as wicked. Yes, I guess it is a Maine descriptive word.
I like the characters especially Angie who is smart and independent. She used common sense and tried to stay out of danger's way. The police are portrayed in a positive light which is different than many cozies.
This book was suspenseful and page turning. Angie was in real danger. The killing and threats didn't make sense as it all seemed linked to a 250 year old coat of arms needlework in bad shape that was purchased at an auction.
Some reviewers have called this book the best of the series. I agree except I must add that book one was my favorite as it drew me into Angie's life. This book is one of the best of the series- right up there with book 1.
November 9, 2018
It’s February in Haven Harbor and Angie and her friend, Sarah Byrne, are going to attend an antique auction. Sarah is looking for items for her antique store, while Angie is attending to see what an auction is like and possibly find some needlepoint items. At the preview for the auction items, Angie finds an interesting embroidered coat of arms. It is in poor shape and Sarah tells her it is probably not worth anything, but it calls to her. When she wins the auction, she takes the piece home and removes it from the frame. In the backing of the piece, she finds a piece of ribbon and a folded piece of paper that is a receipt for baby Charles who was left at the London Foundling Hospital in 1757. Angie's curiosity kicks in and she decides she would like to find out who Charles is and if he has any relatives living in Maine. This decision sets in motion a chain of events that finds a friend of Angie's dead and her life threatened until she is basically under house arrest for her own safety. It is great to see the familiar characters from previous books all present to varying degrees and willing to help her with her research.
This is a great mystery, both the historical and the present day murder. Patrick and Angie are still moving forward with their relationship, but Patrick seems to be a bit overbearing in this book, perhaps due to his desire to keep Angie safe. It was really interesting to see how Ruth is able to use geneology to trace the baby left at the hospital and tie it to a political family. Are they ashamed of their past and want Angie to hush up? There are some red herrings, some obscure clues and lots of computer work used in the pulling together of this mystery. Once again, each chapter begins with an example of work from old samplers worked in colonial and later eras. If this does not interest you, you can skip over it, but I enjoy learning about the needlework of the past as it paints a picture of community, relationships and history. I pretty much figured out who the killer was about halfway through the book, but the motive was left until the end. This book has a lot of tension and suspense as well as relationship building and interactions between the Mainely Needlepointers. I recommend this book to cozy mystery lovers, especially if you enjoy more than one storyline that comes together beautifully at the end. The publisher, Kensington Publishing Corporation, generously provided me with a copy of this book upon request. The rating, ideas and opinions shared are my own.
This is a great mystery, both the historical and the present day murder. Patrick and Angie are still moving forward with their relationship, but Patrick seems to be a bit overbearing in this book, perhaps due to his desire to keep Angie safe. It was really interesting to see how Ruth is able to use geneology to trace the baby left at the hospital and tie it to a political family. Are they ashamed of their past and want Angie to hush up? There are some red herrings, some obscure clues and lots of computer work used in the pulling together of this mystery. Once again, each chapter begins with an example of work from old samplers worked in colonial and later eras. If this does not interest you, you can skip over it, but I enjoy learning about the needlework of the past as it paints a picture of community, relationships and history. I pretty much figured out who the killer was about halfway through the book, but the motive was left until the end. This book has a lot of tension and suspense as well as relationship building and interactions between the Mainely Needlepointers. I recommend this book to cozy mystery lovers, especially if you enjoy more than one storyline that comes together beautifully at the end. The publisher, Kensington Publishing Corporation, generously provided me with a copy of this book upon request. The rating, ideas and opinions shared are my own.
November 15, 2018
In the Mainely Needlepoint Mysteries, author Lea Wait has created a rich cast of characters that I always look forward to spending time with. It’s been wonderful watching them change and grow over the course of the series.
THREAD HERRINGS was a story I couldn’t tear myself away from. A true page turner of a mystery, with questions stemming from past to present, I just became more and more engrossed. There were scenes that were so emotional, I was literally crying, while other scenes found me gasping or holding my breath.
Lea Wait can stitch more excitement and intrigue into one book than some authors can into an entire series. The best installment yet, THREAD HERRINGS is proof of that.
Truly a book I won’t soon forget.
THREAD HERRINGS was a story I couldn’t tear myself away from. A true page turner of a mystery, with questions stemming from past to present, I just became more and more engrossed. There were scenes that were so emotional, I was literally crying, while other scenes found me gasping or holding my breath.
Lea Wait can stitch more excitement and intrigue into one book than some authors can into an entire series. The best installment yet, THREAD HERRINGS is proof of that.
Truly a book I won’t soon forget.
November 1, 2018
Lea Wait returns with THREAD HERRINGS, the seventh book in the Mainely Needlepoint series. If you’ve read my other reviews for this series before then you may be aware that this series has been a little lukewarm for me. I haven’t ever been fully able to fall in love with this series. However, I also find that I keep picking these books up to try.
In this book, I had a lot of the same issues with the previous books that I have read. Although I enjoy the heroine and the community that this series is set in, the pacing of the books are just too slow for me. With Cozy Mysteries in general, this is something that you can expect. However, in comparison to others that I have read, this one has a notoriously slower pace than most of the others. Therefore, I do think it is an exercise in patience to really get through these books.
Despite this however, I still come back and I’m not sure why. While these books don’t stand out to me, there’s something comforting about them and that could be why I always pick them up despite not falling in love with them. I think if you’re looking for something to really slow down life and get your mind off something that is irritating you, this is the kind of book that you want. So really, there’s a place for everything and now I know I will pick these books up whenever I���m in need of something more simple and stress-free.
September 11, 2018
This seventh book in the series focuses on Angie's find at an auction of a tattered embroidery. It is a family's coat of arms dated from the mid 1700's. She soon finds that there is danger attached to this needlework when she begins investigating its history. Will she be its next casualty?
I read the first book in the series but not the others until this one so this can be read as a standalone mystery. I felt the fear, terror, and suspense build for Angie as her world becomes more and more confined to ensure her safety. The other characters are all very supportive of her mission and do their best to help her in any way they can. I also enjoyed the romantic element of the story. I look forward to going back and reading the prior books in this series.
Thanks to NetGalley and Kensington for an advance digital copy of this book. My review is voluntary.
I read the first book in the series but not the others until this one so this can be read as a standalone mystery. I felt the fear, terror, and suspense build for Angie as her world becomes more and more confined to ensure her safety. The other characters are all very supportive of her mission and do their best to help her in any way they can. I also enjoyed the romantic element of the story. I look forward to going back and reading the prior books in this series.
Thanks to NetGalley and Kensington for an advance digital copy of this book. My review is voluntary.
August 26, 2018
Thread Herrings by Lea Wait is an amazing addition to this series.
I had so many moments of shock that I found myself gasping out loud.
Angie attends her first auction, and when her eye is drawn to a particular piece of needlework, she can't resist bidding.
This simple piece of work, a coat of arms, is in bad shape, but it's the chain of events that come afterwards that rock Angie's world.
The author weaves a vivid tale and her characters are so real, I feel like I know them all.
Fans of this series will be delighted to read Thread Herrings. I highly recommend this story to all cozy mystery lovers.
I can't wait to read the next book in the series.
I volunteered to read and review an ARC of this book provided by the publisher and NetGalley.
I had so many moments of shock that I found myself gasping out loud.
Angie attends her first auction, and when her eye is drawn to a particular piece of needlework, she can't resist bidding.
This simple piece of work, a coat of arms, is in bad shape, but it's the chain of events that come afterwards that rock Angie's world.
The author weaves a vivid tale and her characters are so real, I feel like I know them all.
Fans of this series will be delighted to read Thread Herrings. I highly recommend this story to all cozy mystery lovers.
I can't wait to read the next book in the series.
I volunteered to read and review an ARC of this book provided by the publisher and NetGalley.
November 26, 2018
Thread Herrings is my first book in the series, A Mainely Needlepoint Mystery, but I did not have a problem following along as the author gave good background information. The series takes place in Maine during the cold, snowy month of February in the town of Haven Harbor. Angie Curtis has a web business that involves work by a group of needlepointers called Mainely Needlepoint. Angie sells needlepoint items online that the group makes. When her friend and antiques shop owner, Sarah Byrne, invites Angie to go to an estate auction in Augusta, she decides to go. This is her first auction and she is fascinated by the process and is especially drawn to an old embroidered coat of arms. It is faded and worn, worth very little, if anything but for some reason, she wants it. No one else bid on it, so she was able to buy it. Later, when she took it out of the frame, she found paperwork for a baby left in a foundling hospital two hundred and fifty years ago in 1757. These hospitals took in children that the families could not care for but were able to go back later and get their child back. In the framed coat of arms, was the paperwork for a baby named Charles and there was a ribbon that connected the baby to their family. Angie mentioned her find to her friend, Clem, who is a television reporter. Clem puts together a news small spot for the evening asking for help to find out about the family. Almost immediately after the airing, the station gets threats and later, Angie gets a threatening email on her needlepoint website. Within a day, Clem is murdered and someone is asking for Angie around town. Law enforcement friends encourage Angie to go into hiding so she stays with her boyfriend Patrick while they investigate Clem's murder.
This is an interesting story with great characters with small town friendship and support. The plot was well thought out and suspenseful. I was pulled in right away by the action and kept involved to the end.
I received an ARC from Kensington Publishing through NetGalley. The thoughts and opinions are mine only.
This is an interesting story with great characters with small town friendship and support. The plot was well thought out and suspenseful. I was pulled in right away by the action and kept involved to the end.
I received an ARC from Kensington Publishing through NetGalley. The thoughts and opinions are mine only.
November 7, 2018
I’ve dipped my toes into this series in more than one place. I’m known for jumping in anywhere. It’s good to be back, seeing what Angie and the inhabitants of Haven Harbor have been doing.
Not having read a few of the previous books, I felt like I’d been away for a while and arrived back in town, among friends, learning what all had happened while I’d been away. I could picture us sitting at a cafe table and everyone rushing to tell me all the latest news.
So what’s happening now…. Angie is at an antique auction. While perusing the offerings, she comes across a tattered embroidery of a coat of arms. She bids on it and wins. Taking it home, she discovers something hidden in it’s frame and soon after someone is dead and she’s smack in the middle of the investigation. Sorting out the clues is like finding a needle in a haystack, but that doesn’t stop Angie.
I admit I was expecting a quick mystery with some fun dialogue and a bit of romance. The author surprised me and took this a step further. There’s a mystery in a mystery, danger around every corner and she really tested the boundaries of her characters.
A bit more dark and more suspenseful, this is still a cozy mystery with the quirky characters, small town ambiance and sweet romance that comes with it. I was swept right up, ushered in, offered a chair, and settled myself in for an exciting story.
I received a complimentary copy. My review is voluntarily given.
Not having read a few of the previous books, I felt like I’d been away for a while and arrived back in town, among friends, learning what all had happened while I’d been away. I could picture us sitting at a cafe table and everyone rushing to tell me all the latest news.
So what’s happening now…. Angie is at an antique auction. While perusing the offerings, she comes across a tattered embroidery of a coat of arms. She bids on it and wins. Taking it home, she discovers something hidden in it’s frame and soon after someone is dead and she’s smack in the middle of the investigation. Sorting out the clues is like finding a needle in a haystack, but that doesn’t stop Angie.
I admit I was expecting a quick mystery with some fun dialogue and a bit of romance. The author surprised me and took this a step further. There’s a mystery in a mystery, danger around every corner and she really tested the boundaries of her characters.
A bit more dark and more suspenseful, this is still a cozy mystery with the quirky characters, small town ambiance and sweet romance that comes with it. I was swept right up, ushered in, offered a chair, and settled myself in for an exciting story.
I received a complimentary copy. My review is voluntarily given.
May 30, 2019
Questo libro unisce ricamo, storia e genealogia, tutte cose che mi appassionano.
Angie compra a un'asta un vecchio ricamo di uno stemma; tornata a casa, scopre fra il ricamo e la cornice la "ricevuta" di un bambino affidato a un'orfanatrofio a metà del Settecento. Un'amica giornalista fa un servizio e poco dopo viene ammazzata, mentre la macchina di Angie salta in aria e vari messaggi di minacce vengono lasciati nella mail.
Possibile che tutto sia legato a un vecchio ricamo? Ero proprio curiosa di scoprire il motivo dietro a tutto ciò perché mi sembrava impossibile che qualcuno uccidesse per un vecchio ricamo o un orfano di oltre due secoli prima... Devo dire che l'autrice è riuscita a tenere alta la tensione e a dare una spiegazione plausibile al tutto. Per quanto possa essere plausibile un omicidio.
Angie compra a un'asta un vecchio ricamo di uno stemma; tornata a casa, scopre fra il ricamo e la cornice la "ricevuta" di un bambino affidato a un'orfanatrofio a metà del Settecento. Un'amica giornalista fa un servizio e poco dopo viene ammazzata, mentre la macchina di Angie salta in aria e vari messaggi di minacce vengono lasciati nella mail.
Possibile che tutto sia legato a un vecchio ricamo? Ero proprio curiosa di scoprire il motivo dietro a tutto ciò perché mi sembrava impossibile che qualcuno uccidesse per un vecchio ricamo o un orfano di oltre due secoli prima... Devo dire che l'autrice è riuscita a tenere alta la tensione e a dare una spiegazione plausibile al tutto. Per quanto possa essere plausibile un omicidio.
November 3, 2018
Angie has an intriguing puzzle to solve in this one, and severe limitations on her sleuthing, since for much of the book she has to stay in hiding to avoid being spotted by the killer who appears to be stalking her. One of the things fans of cozy mysteries enjoy, besides trying to solve a murder along with the amateur detective, is watching the relationships of continuing characters change and grow. There's plenty to satisfy that end of things in THREAD HERRINGS, along with hints of what might happen next in the personal lives of Angie and her friend Sarah.
January 4, 2019
This book could actually be read out of sequence with the series. It is a great standalone book. Angie tags along to an estate sale with her friend Sarah and ends up buying a tattered embroidery of a coat of arms. Her friend Clem thinks she should do a short story about her find on her TV show. All of a sudden sher and her friend receive threats. Then Clem is found dead and Angie now is not safe. Who is after the coat of arms?
March 23, 2020
This felt darker than the previous ones in the series - much less of a cozy.
November 28, 2018
I was attracted to this mystery because it's set in Maine, where we are currently living. I was entertained to find the characters visiting our town in the first chapter, and dining at an establishment just down the street! (Note: this is a small town in Maine. *Everything* is just down the street). As usual with themed cozies, I wasn't much interested in the featured craft (needlepoint), but that doesn't really matter. No knowledge of needlepoint is needed to enjoy this mystery.
As a story, this is engaging, though I definitely felt the lack of back-story as I was jumping into the series at #7. Still, I cared about the characters and wanted to know what happens to them (and the author's carefully dropped hints about past adventures made me want to go back and start from the beginning). I very much enjoyed the setting, including the comments about how little is open in town during the winter--we have already encountered that reality on some of our excursions out and about!
I felt that the mystery was only adequately developed and challenging. I could guess fairly early who might have done the crime, in part because there were so few suspects. What I did appreciate was the far more realistic than usual degree to which Angie cooperates with the police. She's trying to figure things out, but she doesn't go off on a lone-wolf search or deliberately put herself in danger. Kudos to the author for finding a good balance on the amateur detective vs. police scale!
One grammatical niggle annoyed me, and I can't decide if it's an editorial failure or a deliberate move to make the first person narrator sound more natural. She consistently uses "I" instead of "me" where it should be the other way ("He'll meet Sarah and I at the shop..."), an error that I admit is common but which bothers me. Aside from that, the book is well-edited, and well-written.
My Recommendation:
This is a good read for a winter's day by the fire, I think--engaging enough to keep you turning the pages, and light enough to combat the winter darkness. I think it would be even better to start at the beginning of the series and see how Angie got to this point!
As a story, this is engaging, though I definitely felt the lack of back-story as I was jumping into the series at #7. Still, I cared about the characters and wanted to know what happens to them (and the author's carefully dropped hints about past adventures made me want to go back and start from the beginning). I very much enjoyed the setting, including the comments about how little is open in town during the winter--we have already encountered that reality on some of our excursions out and about!
I felt that the mystery was only adequately developed and challenging. I could guess fairly early who might have done the crime, in part because there were so few suspects. What I did appreciate was the far more realistic than usual degree to which Angie cooperates with the police. She's trying to figure things out, but she doesn't go off on a lone-wolf search or deliberately put herself in danger. Kudos to the author for finding a good balance on the amateur detective vs. police scale!
One grammatical niggle annoyed me, and I can't decide if it's an editorial failure or a deliberate move to make the first person narrator sound more natural. She consistently uses "I" instead of "me" where it should be the other way ("He'll meet Sarah and I at the shop..."), an error that I admit is common but which bothers me. Aside from that, the book is well-edited, and well-written.
My Recommendation:
This is a good read for a winter's day by the fire, I think--engaging enough to keep you turning the pages, and light enough to combat the winter darkness. I think it would be even better to start at the beginning of the series and see how Angie got to this point!
October 27, 2018
Thread Herrings by Lea Wait is the seventh story in A Mainely Needlepoint Mystery series. Angie Curtis is the manager of Mainely Needlepoint in Haven Harbor, Maine. Angie is accompanying her friend, Sarah Byrne to an auction in Augusta. Angie has not been to an auction previously and is looking forward to the experience. Angie is intrigued by a half-finished vintage framed needlepoint coat of arms that is not in the best condition and she spontaneously bids on it when none of the other participants show interest. At home, Angie removes the needlework from the frame and finds a pale silk blue embroidered ribbon along with receipt from the London Foundling Hospital dated October 26, 1757 for a child baptized Charles. Angie wants to learn more about the coat of arms and the child, but she is unsuccessful at the Maine Historical Society. She has lunch with Clem Walker, friend and television reporter, who suggests doing a human interest feature and appeal to the public for information. Instead of receiving helpful material, both ladies receive death threats. Soon Clem is found shot dead in car in Haven Harbor and Angie’s car goes boom injuring someone close to her. Angie goes into hiding, but she this does not deter her from investigating. Can she identify the culprit before he finds her?
Thread Herrings can be read alone if you have not indulged in any of the previous novels in A Mainely Needlepoint Mystery series. Angie goes to her first auction and her friend, Sarah kindly explains auction protocol. Since I have not been to an auction, I found it interesting. I had no idea there was a buyer’s premium added to the hammer price (winning bid). I could tell the author did her research on the London Foundling Hospital, land patents or grants, the billet or receipt for the child and mementoes parents left behind as identifiers (to later claim the child). Lea Wait incorporated the information in a way that made it easy to understand. Ruth Hopkins helps Angie with genealogy research, but we see very little of the other Mainely Needlepoint group. Patrick West is in town and Angie hides out in his finely appointed carriage house. Personally, I am not a fan of Patrick and I keep hoping they will break up. Patrick comes across as superficial (especially when he was discussing the yacht that could only sleep eight). Angie needs a partner with more depth and who is interested in sleuthing. The mystery plays out with clues interspersed up to the reveal. Angie must solve the mystery via phone since she is unable to go out in public which is a unique way of investigating the crime. Readers are unable to play along and solve this whodunit. I could have done without the frequent (I stopped counting after six) mentions of Angie’s gun (a Glock). Angie does manage to indulge in cooking, dining out friends (before the death threats), drinking fine wine, playing with Trixi (her kitten), watch movies, handle business details and check in with Gram. As the action heats up in Thread Herrings, you will find yourself riveted. You cannot help but keep reading to discover how the story plays out.
Thread Herrings can be read alone if you have not indulged in any of the previous novels in A Mainely Needlepoint Mystery series. Angie goes to her first auction and her friend, Sarah kindly explains auction protocol. Since I have not been to an auction, I found it interesting. I had no idea there was a buyer’s premium added to the hammer price (winning bid). I could tell the author did her research on the London Foundling Hospital, land patents or grants, the billet or receipt for the child and mementoes parents left behind as identifiers (to later claim the child). Lea Wait incorporated the information in a way that made it easy to understand. Ruth Hopkins helps Angie with genealogy research, but we see very little of the other Mainely Needlepoint group. Patrick West is in town and Angie hides out in his finely appointed carriage house. Personally, I am not a fan of Patrick and I keep hoping they will break up. Patrick comes across as superficial (especially when he was discussing the yacht that could only sleep eight). Angie needs a partner with more depth and who is interested in sleuthing. The mystery plays out with clues interspersed up to the reveal. Angie must solve the mystery via phone since she is unable to go out in public which is a unique way of investigating the crime. Readers are unable to play along and solve this whodunit. I could have done without the frequent (I stopped counting after six) mentions of Angie’s gun (a Glock). Angie does manage to indulge in cooking, dining out friends (before the death threats), drinking fine wine, playing with Trixi (her kitten), watch movies, handle business details and check in with Gram. As the action heats up in Thread Herrings, you will find yourself riveted. You cannot help but keep reading to discover how the story plays out.
November 6, 2018
It’s February and everyone is quietly performing their winter tasks, which means Sarah is visiting several auctions and restocking her shop. Never having been to an auction, Angie goes along – and here we are treated to information about estate auctions from a dealer’s perspective, and see the pieces during the viewing. While Sarah finds pieces that she can resell and use as stock, Angie finds a not-particularly well-preserved piece of needlework, a coat of arms, a rarity in New England. Bidding on the piece, Angie is the winner – and takes the unusual piece home, full of questions.
Taking the piece from the frame, Angie finds clues and a mystery hidden behind the piece, all needing more investigation. Discovering the two old Maine families whose items provided the lots for the auction, and some preliminary searching bring Angie to Portland to the history museum, information gathered there gives her new places to search and free hours have her contacting a high school friend turned reporter, and we are off.
A one minute spotlight on Angie and her questions about the piece lead to several death threats, the death of her friend Clem, Reverend Thom’s injuries when her car explodes, and danger everywhere. With strangers looking for her in town, footprints around the carriage house that shouldn’t have been there, and a strange couple questioning Sarah about Angie’s piece of embroidery, the questions are never ending. But, frustrated and tired of hiding, an email left by the enquiring couple, a few chance connections made after a news story and cooperation from Sarah bring them face to face with the killer – not quietly as Angie has to use (for the first time) her gun to get Sarah out of danger and be sure the killer is caught. Of course, as in all of this series, insets of work from old samplers worked in colonial and later eras, and the solid feelings of community, friendship and plenty of snow, sea smoke and cold all combine to paint the quaint little town in winter clothes. Wait brings a sense of the place solidly forward while keeping everyone aware of the fact that murder never makes real sense to anyone BUT those willing to kill for something – and in this story the motive of retribution for hurts perceived and done for years was just as silly, even as the tension, questions and information came hard and fast.
I received an eArc copy of the title from the publisher via NetGalley for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.
Review first appeared at I am, Indeed
Taking the piece from the frame, Angie finds clues and a mystery hidden behind the piece, all needing more investigation. Discovering the two old Maine families whose items provided the lots for the auction, and some preliminary searching bring Angie to Portland to the history museum, information gathered there gives her new places to search and free hours have her contacting a high school friend turned reporter, and we are off.
A one minute spotlight on Angie and her questions about the piece lead to several death threats, the death of her friend Clem, Reverend Thom’s injuries when her car explodes, and danger everywhere. With strangers looking for her in town, footprints around the carriage house that shouldn’t have been there, and a strange couple questioning Sarah about Angie’s piece of embroidery, the questions are never ending. But, frustrated and tired of hiding, an email left by the enquiring couple, a few chance connections made after a news story and cooperation from Sarah bring them face to face with the killer – not quietly as Angie has to use (for the first time) her gun to get Sarah out of danger and be sure the killer is caught. Of course, as in all of this series, insets of work from old samplers worked in colonial and later eras, and the solid feelings of community, friendship and plenty of snow, sea smoke and cold all combine to paint the quaint little town in winter clothes. Wait brings a sense of the place solidly forward while keeping everyone aware of the fact that murder never makes real sense to anyone BUT those willing to kill for something – and in this story the motive of retribution for hurts perceived and done for years was just as silly, even as the tension, questions and information came hard and fast.
I received an eArc copy of the title from the publisher via NetGalley for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.
Review first appeared at I am, Indeed
November 2, 2018
What an introduction to this author and her series! Ms. Wait really knows her antiques, the business, needlepoint, embroidery, and related samplers and mourning art. The beginning of each chapter includes a child's accounting of a coat of arms (or family crest) embroidery, including familial information.
Haven Harbor, Maine, protagonist Angie Curtis of the Mainely Needlepoint shop is invited by her antiques shop owner buddy, Sarah Byrne, to accompany her to an auction. It is her first experience with an auction and the author does a fine job of detailing procedures. During the preview, Angie spies an embroidered coat of arms that catches her fancy. It's when Angie gets her prize home and removes the frame that she discovers a billet (receipt) for Charles from the London Foundling Hospital in 1757 on a lovingly embroidered ribbon. (The billet is meant to match the receipt at the hospital in order to reclaim the child.)
No problem to read this as a standalone, story-driven plot. Mainely Needlepoint support characters provide historical and genealogical information, along with her grandmother (the latter of whom raised her). Fascinated, Angie begins to research and investigate along with the help of a former classmate, Clem Walker, a TV personality who persuades her to appeal to the public for information. The TV short results in death threats and shortly Clem is murdered and her grandmother's new hubby injured when he attempts to move Angie's car. Angie is forced into hiding and takes her kitty but continues to quietly push for new information.
Certainly an opening that grabs the interest quickly and manages to weave informative and educational tidbits into an intriguing, engaging and well-developed plot. The Maine winter descriptions, while brutal, certainly lent an ambiance to the storyline. The antagonist is worked out through persistent and dogged analysis and is not entirely a surprise, but the motive and conclusion comes off a tad weak.
I received this ebook download from the publisher and NetGalley and greatly appreciated the opportunity to read and review. I thoroughly enjoyed the history and heartily recommend to any who participate in needlework or crafting of any kind. Will also interest any who read cozy mysteries, suspense, and women sleuths. I'm looking forward to Book 8! 4.5/5
See my full review on https://rosepointpublishing.com
Haven Harbor, Maine, protagonist Angie Curtis of the Mainely Needlepoint shop is invited by her antiques shop owner buddy, Sarah Byrne, to accompany her to an auction. It is her first experience with an auction and the author does a fine job of detailing procedures. During the preview, Angie spies an embroidered coat of arms that catches her fancy. It's when Angie gets her prize home and removes the frame that she discovers a billet (receipt) for Charles from the London Foundling Hospital in 1757 on a lovingly embroidered ribbon. (The billet is meant to match the receipt at the hospital in order to reclaim the child.)
No problem to read this as a standalone, story-driven plot. Mainely Needlepoint support characters provide historical and genealogical information, along with her grandmother (the latter of whom raised her). Fascinated, Angie begins to research and investigate along with the help of a former classmate, Clem Walker, a TV personality who persuades her to appeal to the public for information. The TV short results in death threats and shortly Clem is murdered and her grandmother's new hubby injured when he attempts to move Angie's car. Angie is forced into hiding and takes her kitty but continues to quietly push for new information.
Certainly an opening that grabs the interest quickly and manages to weave informative and educational tidbits into an intriguing, engaging and well-developed plot. The Maine winter descriptions, while brutal, certainly lent an ambiance to the storyline. The antagonist is worked out through persistent and dogged analysis and is not entirely a surprise, but the motive and conclusion comes off a tad weak.
I received this ebook download from the publisher and NetGalley and greatly appreciated the opportunity to read and review. I thoroughly enjoyed the history and heartily recommend to any who participate in needlework or crafting of any kind. Will also interest any who read cozy mysteries, suspense, and women sleuths. I'm looking forward to Book 8! 4.5/5
See my full review on https://rosepointpublishing.com
October 21, 2018
Thread Herrings is the seventh installment in the Mainely Needlepoint series featuring Angie Curtis and set in the small town of Heavenly Harbor, ME. Things are quiet in February so Angie agrees to accompany best friend and antique shop owner, Sarah Byrne to an estate auction in neighboring Augusta.
Fascinated by a variety of needlework both Sarah and Angie bid on a few items with Angie taking home a faded, half finished Coat of Arms. Upon getting the piece home Angie disassembles the frame and discovers a folded paper receipt and accompanying billet for a boy named Charles who had been left at the London Foundling Hospital in 1757. Realizing that there isn't much she can do to repair the needlework, Angie decides to learn more about the baby boy and his parentage.
A subsequent trip to the Maine Historical Society proves uninformative, so Angie stops in to visit her high school classmate and Portland TV reporter, Clem Walker. Upon hearing the story Clem convinces Angie to do a short segment on the local news in hopes that someone might recognize the story of the Coat of Arms. That evening, immediately after the news airs, both Clem and Angie begin receiving death threats - someone is determined to stop them from discovering who Charles was.
Within a few days, Clem has been murdered, someone has blown up Angie's car, and strange people are lurking in Haven Harbor trying to find Angie. On the advice of Pete Lambert, Haven Harbor's Police Chief and State Police Officer Ethan Trask, Angie agrees to move in temporarily with boyfriend Patrick West behind the locked gates of the West compound.
Determined to try and solve the mystery but unable to leave the house, Angie relies on a couple of the Mainely Needlepoint workers for background and genealogical discovery. The author has done quite a bit of research regarding needlepoint and embroidery and historical snippets once again start each chapter, the workings of Foundling Hospitals are explained in detail, and a brief description of auction protocol is included.
I am not a fan of Patrick, and sorry to say but I still did not warm up to his character after this latest installment. I was also disappointed that there was not much interaction with the Mainely Needlepoint workers, and only brief conversations between Angie and her grandmother. All in all fast paced story line and well developed plot that will leave series readers happy and looking for the next installment.
I received an advanced copy of Thread Herrings from NetGalley via Kensington Publishing. While not required to write a review I am more than happy to offer my honest opinion.
Fascinated by a variety of needlework both Sarah and Angie bid on a few items with Angie taking home a faded, half finished Coat of Arms. Upon getting the piece home Angie disassembles the frame and discovers a folded paper receipt and accompanying billet for a boy named Charles who had been left at the London Foundling Hospital in 1757. Realizing that there isn't much she can do to repair the needlework, Angie decides to learn more about the baby boy and his parentage.
A subsequent trip to the Maine Historical Society proves uninformative, so Angie stops in to visit her high school classmate and Portland TV reporter, Clem Walker. Upon hearing the story Clem convinces Angie to do a short segment on the local news in hopes that someone might recognize the story of the Coat of Arms. That evening, immediately after the news airs, both Clem and Angie begin receiving death threats - someone is determined to stop them from discovering who Charles was.
Within a few days, Clem has been murdered, someone has blown up Angie's car, and strange people are lurking in Haven Harbor trying to find Angie. On the advice of Pete Lambert, Haven Harbor's Police Chief and State Police Officer Ethan Trask, Angie agrees to move in temporarily with boyfriend Patrick West behind the locked gates of the West compound.
Determined to try and solve the mystery but unable to leave the house, Angie relies on a couple of the Mainely Needlepoint workers for background and genealogical discovery. The author has done quite a bit of research regarding needlepoint and embroidery and historical snippets once again start each chapter, the workings of Foundling Hospitals are explained in detail, and a brief description of auction protocol is included.
I am not a fan of Patrick, and sorry to say but I still did not warm up to his character after this latest installment. I was also disappointed that there was not much interaction with the Mainely Needlepoint workers, and only brief conversations between Angie and her grandmother. All in all fast paced story line and well developed plot that will leave series readers happy and looking for the next installment.
I received an advanced copy of Thread Herrings from NetGalley via Kensington Publishing. While not required to write a review I am more than happy to offer my honest opinion.
April 9, 2019
In Thread Herring Angie seems to get herself in a bit more trouble than she is use to and it's all over an old embroidery that she picked up at an action when she went with her friend Sarah. The embroidery is pretty much deemed not repairable by everyone but it's what was behind the frame that has Angie's curiosity going. It's also the thing that gets her and trouble and someone she knows murdered.Angie gets death threats, her car is blown up and she is pretty much in hiding while still trying to figure out why someone would want to murder over the old paper about a foundling boy from a long time ago. Even though she trust the police to do their job she just can sit around and do nothing as she is going stir crazy.This one was a lot of fun and as always I really enjoyed the characters. It had a great mystery as it took me a long time to decide who it might be as I really thought it was someone else...lol.If you love this series or just cozies in general then you will enjoy this one!
October 16, 2018
Thread Herrings is the seventh installment in Lea Wait’s Mainely Needlepoint Mystery series and is an engaging, well-plotted mystery with well-developed characters. The writing style flows smoothly at a steady pace, and the book is an easy read. The author is very talented in descriptive writing, and much of the time I was reading, I felt like I was there, watching the activities taking place. There are enough suspects, twists, and turns, to make it difficult to figure out who the killer is. The story quickly drew me in, and the reveal and ending were surprising. Ms. Wait has provided sufficient character background that allows this book to be read as a standalone.
Angie Curtis, who manages Mainely Needlepoint in Haven Harbor, Maine, attends her first auction with her friend, Sarah Byrne, who owns From Here and There. Angie isn’t sure why, but she’s drawn to a badly damaged piece of needlework and feels compelled to bid on it. When she takes the embroidered coat of arms home, she removes it from its frame and discovers a receipt dated October 1757 for a child named Charles who was left at a foundling hospital, and a beautifully embroidered ribbon. Angie learns the foundling hospital was located in London, the ribbon was a called billet, and that anyone relinquishing a child would receive half the billet and would need it to reclaim the child. Clem Walker, Angie’s friend and TV reporter with the local station, interviews her and asks for anyone with information about the needlepoint to contact the station. Within minutes of the airing, the station receives a death threat for Clem, Angie, and anyone who tries to find information about the embroidery or receipt and Angie receives a threatening message through her website. Angie and Clem arrange to meet for lunch the next day to discuss the fact that both received threats. When Clem doesn’t show up for lunch, Angie goes to Sarah’s shop but before she even enters the shop, receives a call from Haven Harbor PD’s Sergeant Pete Lambert, who tells her Clem was found dead in her car and instructing her to stay put with Sarah. Pete and Ethan Trask, her high school crush and a Maine state trooper in the homicide department, insist she doesn’t return to her home. She agrees to spend the night with Sarah, arranges to stay with her boyfriend, Patrick West, for the next few days. The next day, Gram’s new husband, Reverend Tom, is injured when her car explodes. Even though she’s forced into hiding, Angie is determined to learn the history behind the coat of arms and help Pete and Ethan solve the crimes.
I received an Advance Reader Copy of this book from NetGalley and voluntarily reviewed it.
Angie Curtis, who manages Mainely Needlepoint in Haven Harbor, Maine, attends her first auction with her friend, Sarah Byrne, who owns From Here and There. Angie isn’t sure why, but she’s drawn to a badly damaged piece of needlework and feels compelled to bid on it. When she takes the embroidered coat of arms home, she removes it from its frame and discovers a receipt dated October 1757 for a child named Charles who was left at a foundling hospital, and a beautifully embroidered ribbon. Angie learns the foundling hospital was located in London, the ribbon was a called billet, and that anyone relinquishing a child would receive half the billet and would need it to reclaim the child. Clem Walker, Angie’s friend and TV reporter with the local station, interviews her and asks for anyone with information about the needlepoint to contact the station. Within minutes of the airing, the station receives a death threat for Clem, Angie, and anyone who tries to find information about the embroidery or receipt and Angie receives a threatening message through her website. Angie and Clem arrange to meet for lunch the next day to discuss the fact that both received threats. When Clem doesn’t show up for lunch, Angie goes to Sarah’s shop but before she even enters the shop, receives a call from Haven Harbor PD’s Sergeant Pete Lambert, who tells her Clem was found dead in her car and instructing her to stay put with Sarah. Pete and Ethan Trask, her high school crush and a Maine state trooper in the homicide department, insist she doesn’t return to her home. She agrees to spend the night with Sarah, arranges to stay with her boyfriend, Patrick West, for the next few days. The next day, Gram’s new husband, Reverend Tom, is injured when her car explodes. Even though she’s forced into hiding, Angie is determined to learn the history behind the coat of arms and help Pete and Ethan solve the crimes.
I received an Advance Reader Copy of this book from NetGalley and voluntarily reviewed it.
October 28, 2018
I've enjoyed Lea Wait's Mainely Needlepoint cozy series from the beginning. I've painlessly learned a lot about Maine through these books-- from its fascinating history to its landscape and weather to the customs of present-day Mainers. And I am happy to announce, Thread Herrings is the best of the series so far.
I loved the reminder of how much fun attending auctions can be, and I can imagine many other readers being tempted to attend their first one from Wait's description of Angie's experience at the beginning of the book. But the one thing that takes center stage in Thread Herrings is the mystery. Angie's friend is shot to death on her way to meet Angie at a local restaurant. From strangers asking locals where she lives to death threats by email and other means, it's clear to see that Angie's life is well and truly in danger and Wait skillfully ratchets up the suspense (and the need to read faster to make sure Angie doesn't come to harm).
And guess what? Wait doesn't create this palpable tension by having Angie do something stupid! I can't tell you how refreshing that is. Angie gets a bad case of cabin fever, but when the local and state police tell her to stay put and stay inside, she does it-- and the book is still scary and suspenseful. (There are authors who need to make note of this because I'm not the only reader who can't stand characters who are TSTL-- Too Stupid To Live.)
The reveal at the end of Thread Herrings is a satisfying one, and now I have to settle down and wait for the next installment. It can't come fast enough for me.
I loved the reminder of how much fun attending auctions can be, and I can imagine many other readers being tempted to attend their first one from Wait's description of Angie's experience at the beginning of the book. But the one thing that takes center stage in Thread Herrings is the mystery. Angie's friend is shot to death on her way to meet Angie at a local restaurant. From strangers asking locals where she lives to death threats by email and other means, it's clear to see that Angie's life is well and truly in danger and Wait skillfully ratchets up the suspense (and the need to read faster to make sure Angie doesn't come to harm).
And guess what? Wait doesn't create this palpable tension by having Angie do something stupid! I can't tell you how refreshing that is. Angie gets a bad case of cabin fever, but when the local and state police tell her to stay put and stay inside, she does it-- and the book is still scary and suspenseful. (There are authors who need to make note of this because I'm not the only reader who can't stand characters who are TSTL-- Too Stupid To Live.)
The reveal at the end of Thread Herrings is a satisfying one, and now I have to settle down and wait for the next installment. It can't come fast enough for me.
October 29, 2018
Thread Herrings is the seventh book in the A Mainely Needlepointer Mystery series.
I learned more about needlepoint, Maine, auctions, and people in general.
What I found refreshing was that the sleuth did not intentionally make decisions that would put her in harm’s way and that I was constantly saying – are you slow or don’t grasp the severity of your situation?
I like Angie Curtiss. I like her background and current desire to run a needlepoint/gift shop.
The author did a good job of having me care what happens to the players involve.
I also enjoyed that the police were not depicted as incompetent or had grudges against the characters in the book.
I was intent on learning why would someone kill over the coat of arms needlepoint.
Kept me interested throughout the story. This is a standalone story.
I received an Advanced Reader’s Copy from Kensington Publishing Corporation via and these are my own opinions.
I learned more about needlepoint, Maine, auctions, and people in general.
What I found refreshing was that the sleuth did not intentionally make decisions that would put her in harm’s way and that I was constantly saying – are you slow or don’t grasp the severity of your situation?
I like Angie Curtiss. I like her background and current desire to run a needlepoint/gift shop.
The author did a good job of having me care what happens to the players involve.
I also enjoyed that the police were not depicted as incompetent or had grudges against the characters in the book.
I was intent on learning why would someone kill over the coat of arms needlepoint.
Kept me interested throughout the story. This is a standalone story.
I received an Advanced Reader’s Copy from Kensington Publishing Corporation via and these are my own opinions.
June 10, 2019
This needed to be edited! How do some of these books get on the shelves when they read like a rough draft? Are publishing companies so desperate for money they will push out any half-finished mystery novel to bring in cash from people who want a quick read? Even the description on the back of the book was incorrect about the contents of the book . Very repetitive, very simplistic, with continuity issues and jarring sentence/paragraph structure. The main MC is so smart she's stupid who has the survival skills of a gnat.
This is the first in this series I have read and it works pretty well as a stand alone but from MC's own mentions of crimes vs. timeline, I would not want to be anywhere around this bad luck charm of a woman.
The plot: Angie (our MC) goes with a friend to an auction house where she bids on some very old needlepoint art. She discovers a very old document in the frame (for someone who is best friends with an antique dealer her handling of said document would drive anyone in the business and any historian or archivist into an anxiety attack) and wants to find out more. Her old high school classmate now a tv reporter talks her into doing a personal interest clip or the news. Immediately after the 60 second or less clip airs once Angie and her reporter friend receive death threats. Not long after the reporter ends up dead and attempts made on Angie's life. She keeps up looking into the document's past. The ending is kinda a hun what? moment when the bad guy confronts her and spills his guts.
An observation that is re-enforced in this cozy mystery is that all MC's come from some kind of hard knock life background (that really isn't) to come home (to a small town usually inhabited by tourists and longtime locals) to at least one very supporting family member, a ready boyfriend (either an old flame or someone with a law connection or works in a similar job), a job where they can work their own hours (because somehow they are all well off financially), connections to the local police (always the chief or 1 detective of some small squad) that keeps them out of jail from all the shit they pull and born under a lucky star that keeps them alive and fairly unhurt from all the killers they just have to hunt down for some stupid reason (they just met the victim, they knew of the victim, the victim just bought something from them, ext.) These people live in an alternate reality and besides the death that follows them everywhere, they all lead very charmed lives. I guess cozy mysteries take place not in reality but an idealized life (minus the constant death if you please).
This is the first in this series I have read and it works pretty well as a stand alone but from MC's own mentions of crimes vs. timeline, I would not want to be anywhere around this bad luck charm of a woman.
The plot: Angie (our MC) goes with a friend to an auction house where she bids on some very old needlepoint art. She discovers a very old document in the frame (for someone who is best friends with an antique dealer her handling of said document would drive anyone in the business and any historian or archivist into an anxiety attack) and wants to find out more. Her old high school classmate now a tv reporter talks her into doing a personal interest clip or the news. Immediately after the 60 second or less clip airs once Angie and her reporter friend receive death threats. Not long after the reporter ends up dead and attempts made on Angie's life. She keeps up looking into the document's past. The ending is kinda a hun what? moment when the bad guy confronts her and spills his guts.
An observation that is re-enforced in this cozy mystery is that all MC's come from some kind of hard knock life background (that really isn't) to come home (to a small town usually inhabited by tourists and longtime locals) to at least one very supporting family member, a ready boyfriend (either an old flame or someone with a law connection or works in a similar job), a job where they can work their own hours (because somehow they are all well off financially), connections to the local police (always the chief or 1 detective of some small squad) that keeps them out of jail from all the shit they pull and born under a lucky star that keeps them alive and fairly unhurt from all the killers they just have to hunt down for some stupid reason (they just met the victim, they knew of the victim, the victim just bought something from them, ext.) These people live in an alternate reality and besides the death that follows them everywhere, they all lead very charmed lives. I guess cozy mysteries take place not in reality but an idealized life (minus the constant death if you please).
September 29, 2018
I was disappointed in the last book in this series and I was pleasantly surprised with how exciting and perilous this book was. It was a definite change of pace from the normal Mainely Needlepoint mysteries.
The conclusion, however, was a terrible letdown. The motivation, the ‘story’ behind the mystery were so flimsy. It was an incredibly disappointing end to what had been such a promising book.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. I was not paid for this review.
The conclusion, however, was a terrible letdown. The motivation, the ‘story’ behind the mystery were so flimsy. It was an incredibly disappointing end to what had been such a promising book.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. I was not paid for this review.
April 19, 2019
another great book by Ms. Wait
November 3, 2018
Reviewed at The Power of Words: https://bit.ly/2zupRrw
Thread Herrings by the talented Lea Wait is a top-notch cozy mystery, first class all the way. The narrative is well written, filled with fascinating historical detail, and flows at a steady pace. There’s no fluff or filler; every word is important. Reading the previous stories in this series would have given me a better connection with the regular characters, but Thread Herrings easily stands alone – and the mystery itself is outstanding. From setting to characters and plot, I loved everything about this story. It’s also a clean read, no profanity or graphic scenes.
I’m a southerner who would move to New England if my family would agree, so the Haven Harbor, Maine setting was a huge attraction for me. Lea Wait’s love for her state shines in this story as she so vividly conveys scenes and state history that drew me right in. Each chapter begins with an interesting quote, many from needlework samplers of the past.
The story begins with Angie and Sarah on their way to an antique auction, where Angie is drawn to a well-worn coat of arms. The author brings in a lot of detail relating to auctions, which I found enjoyable. What starts out as a fun trip and shopping experience soon builds into danger and non-stop action, making the story hard to put down. Angie’s investigation into a friend’s murder is complicated when she has to go into hiding because of death threats, relying on the online investigative skills of her delightful friend, Ruth. More fascinating history comes into play as two prominent Maine families, with ties to England and a foundling hospital in the 1700s, are linked to present-day events, including murder. The mystery theme itself is captivating, elevating Thread Herrings to the top of the cozy mystery genre.
Lea Wait is an excellent author and I’m eager to read more of her mysteries, including her other series involving antique prints. Thread Herrings goes on my favorites list.
Highly recommended.
I received a copy of this book through Great Escapes Tours. The opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.
Thread Herrings by the talented Lea Wait is a top-notch cozy mystery, first class all the way. The narrative is well written, filled with fascinating historical detail, and flows at a steady pace. There’s no fluff or filler; every word is important. Reading the previous stories in this series would have given me a better connection with the regular characters, but Thread Herrings easily stands alone – and the mystery itself is outstanding. From setting to characters and plot, I loved everything about this story. It’s also a clean read, no profanity or graphic scenes.
I’m a southerner who would move to New England if my family would agree, so the Haven Harbor, Maine setting was a huge attraction for me. Lea Wait’s love for her state shines in this story as she so vividly conveys scenes and state history that drew me right in. Each chapter begins with an interesting quote, many from needlework samplers of the past.
The story begins with Angie and Sarah on their way to an antique auction, where Angie is drawn to a well-worn coat of arms. The author brings in a lot of detail relating to auctions, which I found enjoyable. What starts out as a fun trip and shopping experience soon builds into danger and non-stop action, making the story hard to put down. Angie’s investigation into a friend’s murder is complicated when she has to go into hiding because of death threats, relying on the online investigative skills of her delightful friend, Ruth. More fascinating history comes into play as two prominent Maine families, with ties to England and a foundling hospital in the 1700s, are linked to present-day events, including murder. The mystery theme itself is captivating, elevating Thread Herrings to the top of the cozy mystery genre.
Lea Wait is an excellent author and I’m eager to read more of her mysteries, including her other series involving antique prints. Thread Herrings goes on my favorites list.
Highly recommended.
I received a copy of this book through Great Escapes Tours. The opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.
February 16, 2019
This is the first Mainely Needlepoint Mystery I have read and was able to jump in with the characters and follow their storylines. Protag Angie Curtis is introduced to the world of auctions by her friend Sarah Byrne. She finds what appears to be an intriguing sampler of a coat of arms that seems out of place for Maine and Angie decides to bid on it and see what the story is behind it. What she ends up finding is an acquaintance getting murdered over it, a family member getting injured, her car being destroyed and herself, being stalked., All in the quest to determine the provenance of the embroidery.
Our amateur sleuth told an interesting story and the Maine history and trivia were very interesting, but the only real thing that annoyed me was every time Angie got on that dang telephone she was telling people where she was staying/hiding out from the stalker, when it was supposed to be secret!!!! It was so frustrating.
All in all, not a bad cozy read. Made me even miss snow for a minute. Haha!
Our amateur sleuth told an interesting story and the Maine history and trivia were very interesting, but the only real thing that annoyed me was every time Angie got on that dang telephone she was telling people where she was staying/hiding out from the stalker, when it was supposed to be secret!!!! It was so frustrating.
All in all, not a bad cozy read. Made me even miss snow for a minute. Haha!
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