What a charming, upbeat read for the holiday season. Cozy mysteries are always a good bet and this one, set in a small village, is full of characters you'd love to have as your neighbors.

Macy, owner of the Seven-Year-Stitch embroidery story is getting ready for the holidays, helping a group of her customers make their own Christmas ornaments. The season of giving (and a plea from Captain Moe) also has her playing Santa at the local pediatrics ward. It’s all fun and games until the hospital administrator is found dead. Given her job, there are plenty of people who wanted the woman dead, but all the evidence points to Moe. Marcy, her dog Angus and Officer Ted are on the case, trying to find the real killer. This is a fun cozy series that wins best dog character – I love Angus!

This is the first of Amanda Lee’s series that I’ve read and I enjoyed it very much. When I think of the term “cozy mystery,” Better Off Thread fits the description perfectly. All the essential elements are present … small-town setting in Oregon, amateur detective who owns an embroidery shop, a strong supporting cast of friends, intuitive investigation, humor, a sweet romance, and the most adorable Irish Wolfhound named Angus! The writing is tight, flowing smoothly throughout. And, to top it all off, this story is completely clean – no graphic scenes or profanity!

A story or series is only as strong as its heroine, and Marcy, owner of Seven-Year Stitch, is wonderfully appealing. She’s sensitive, caring, and intelligent – the kind of person you would want for a friend. Marcy even has the hidden talent of stunt driving, revealed in a funny scene. Her romantic interest, Ted, is admirable also and readers will love the surprise ending. This story stands alone, but I’m eager to follow all the characters through the previous books as time allows.

The mystery is well plotted and kept me turning the pages. Character depth can make or break a book for me, and that is one of this story’s strengths. I especially enjoyed the scenes of Marcy assisting Santa with the children at the hospital. While Better Off Thread is a perfect read for any time of the year, it is especially enjoyable during the Christmas season.

Highly recommended. Within the cozy mystery genre, 5 stars.

I was provided a free copy of this book through Great Escapes Tours. The opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.