I didn't really enjoy this cozy. I'm not sure why but I just didn't click with it. The characters seemed off with their interactions. Cleo and Riley are talking about moving in together but can't find time to talk to each other. When they do, they seem to pussyfoot around rather than actually talking about things. The mystery drug on without a clear resolution in my opinion. Not sure I'll be reading any more of this author.
I received a free copy of this book from Netgalley and the publisher and voluntarily chose to review it.

I stepped into the Cleo Mack Mystery world at the third title, and usually, this would have me in a panic but I was not the least bit lost on the background of this series and fell into the story so very easily. I always appreciate when there is just enough in either the narrative or the dialogue to bring me up to speed on what I really need to know about previous stories. MURDER AT THE ARTS AND CRAFTS FESTIVAL is a charming, fast-paced, grab me by the hand and never let go until the end type of story with enough twists, turns and red herrings to satisfy any Cozy Mystery reader. I will definitely be going back for the earlier titles to catch all the nuances of this series from the start.

I liked Cleo, adored her sorta boyfriend Riley (hope to see that develop over time), and loved the quirky residents of both the apartment complex and this town in general. I love puzzles, but I don’t have to figure out whodunit before the reveal – the fun part of Cozy Mysteries for me is the adventure in getting there. But this one I definitely didn’t see coming, and I love when authors surprise me like this. If you love Cozy Mysteries, a really good story, and characters who come to life on the page then you’ll want to pick up MURDER AT THE ARTS AND CRAFTS FESTIVAL soon. I completely enjoyed myself in this world and would not hesitate to recommend this one – now to go pick up the previous titles.

*I received an e-ARC of this novel from the publisher via NetGalley. That does not change what I think of this story. It is my choice to leave a review giving my personal opinion about this book.*

What an interesting story with some twists and turns thrown in just for fun. I’ve wondered what it would be like to live in a retirement community. I think it would be fun with all the activities and being with folks around your age. These folks certainly don’t live a boring life. There is a good mix of folks who have a good time with each other. Crafts, games, detecting, you know, various activities to keep them busy. I learned about art and forgeries while I was enjoying hanging with these folks. It’s always good to learn something new. Now I need to wait and see what decisions will be made and what they’ll get into next. I received this book from NetGalley, but my opinion is my own.

Although this is the 3rd book in the series, it was fine to read as a standalone. I do think it would read better if the other two had been read but it still worked. I enjoyed the mystery and trying to figure out who the bad guy (I was not right!). I also thought the arts and crafts festival made for a fun and unique setting. After reading this I will be going back and reading the first two!

Cleo can't seem to get a break. She retired from teaching and took a job at Harbor Village retirement community only to find her ex (and his wife) was involved with the development and then there were the murders. Now though, things seem to have settled down just in time for the Arts and Crafts festival, which is a big deal. Unfortunately, the somewhat loathsome Twinkle Thaw (really?) drops dead at the event. Now, regular cozy readers know there's more here than meets the eye. Cleo's got a group of seniors eager to help with the case. Old issues and secrets figure in this one and Gardner will keep you guessing. Cleo's a good character and it's nice to see her relationship with Riley expand a bit. Don't worry if you haven't read the earlier ones- this will be fine as a standalone. Thanks to netgalley for the ARC. A good cozy read.

This is the 3rd installment in the Cleo Mack mystery series. Cleo Mack is the director at the Harbor Village retirement village in Fairhope Alabama. The Arts and Crafts Festival is in town and Cleo and her friends at retirement center are excited. One of the residents sister is in town for the festival and she ends up poisoned so of course the senior crew is on the job to figure out the culprit. Initially, it appears there is no real motive for the murder. Enjoyed this installment in the series.

Another Cleo Mack mystery that I enjoyed! When an Arts and Crafts Festival comes to Fairthorpe, Alabama and a controversial artist with a connection to the Harbor Village Retirement Community is murdered, Cleo finds herself a target.

The mystery is compelling and I was way off in my guess "whodunit"! Jim and Nita's involvement in the mystery brought a levity to the book - I enjoy those two characters and their 51st anniversary celebration added a nice touch. The setting of an Arts and Crafts Festival was fun and I loved the descriptions of the paintings and the buzz of activity in Fairthorpe. The relationship between Cleo and Riley continues to grow, however I wish she was more sure of what she wants in her career & love life. We'll see!

I'm looking forward to the next book and mystery!

I received an ARC from NetGalley for a fair and honest review of this book.

I've really grown to like Cleo Mack and each book is more enjoyable than the last.
In this book Cleo is part of the committee for the arts and crafts festival.
A bizarre murder occurs and before long Cleo and her friends become involved in the murder investigation and the twists and turns will leave you scratching your head.

Cleo Mack and the residents of Harbor Village are excited by the local Arts and Craft Festival. When the sister of one of the residents who has come to town to participate in the festival is murdered with poison, the police and resident crime fighters struggle to find the culprit. Wasn’t the result of greed, karma, or pure hatred? This one is a hard one for everyone to figure out. But when the magical pieces of the puzzle falling to place, it’s hard for everyone to find evidence to support their findings. Just going to show that you can’t win them all.

Another fun entry in the series. It’s great to see Cleo and Riley getting closer as the story progresses. Looking forward to see what the future has in store for these two retirees, who might not quite yet be ready to be retired for good.

I, like the other Netgalley reviewers, was unable to view this book. My download was three pages and it was set in a light font that was impossible to read. I hope to enjoy the book when the publisher makes it available for review.

I also had nothing when I downloaded this book, just an advertisment for the book. I was really looking forward to reading this as I live in Alabama and have spent time in Fairhope.

Was looking forward to reading this one, but the download has very little to read. If they get that fixed I will be happy to try again.

I was unable to read anything as others have mentioned. It seems to be an advertisement of the series.

I was looking forward in reading and reviewing this book but somehow the down load was messed up and the whole book was only two pages . Not sure what happened ☹️