As an avid crocheter, I was immediately drawn to Hooked on Murder, the first book in Betty Hechtman’s Crochet Mystery series. The premise of a cozy whodunit centered on a group of yarn-loving sleuths felt like the perfect blend of two of my favorite things: crafting and crime-solving. I also appreciated that the protagonist, Molly Pink, isn’t a twenty-something amateur detective, but a mature woman navigating work, friendship, and the occasional murder.

Hechtman’s writing flows easily, making it a light but engaging read. The descriptions of crochet circles, yarn colors, and handmade projects felt authentic and added a comforting texture to the story. Hechtman knows her way around a skein of yarn as well as a plot twist.

While the mystery itself leans toward the simpler side, more cozy than complex, it still managed to keep me turning pages. The pacing was steady, the small-town setting was charming, and the mix of humor and heart gave the story warmth. I especially liked how Molly’s curiosity gets her in over her head, yet she handles it with wit and grace. The big reveal genuinely surprised me, which is always a plus in a genre where I can usually spot the culprit halfway through.

Hooked on Murder is a comforting escape for anyone who loves crafts, coffee, and clever conversation. It’s an enjoyable start to what promises to be a long-running, feel-good mystery series. I’ll definitely be continuing with the next installment, hook in hand and coffee nearby.

Trip Summary: A delightful, cozy mystery filled with charm, community, and a dash of suspense. Perfect for crocheters who enjoy their mysteries warm and twisty, though non-crafters may not connect with it in quite the same way.

Hooked on Murder is a comforting escape for anyone who loves crafts, coffee, and clever conversation. It’s an enjoyable start to what promises to be a long-running, feel-good mystery series. I’ll definitely be continuing with the next installment, hook in hand and coffee nearby.

My takeaway line is “I’d hardly mastered a granny square, but somehow I’d crocheted myself into a murder.”

Hooked on Murder earns three passport stamps ⭐ 3️⃣, and has me ready to pick up my next project and dive into the next installment of this series.

~ RR