ON SKEIN OF DEATH

A passionate knitter shows remarkable aptitude as a detective in a new series kickoff by the prolific Pleiter.

Returning to her hometown of Collinstown, Maryland, Libby Beckett has used her healthy divorce settlement to open Y.A.R.N., a shop devoted to all things fiber art. She plans a series of events to showcase Perle Lonager, whose Norwegian-inspired knitting patterns have earned her a devoted following. Perle’s background is Danish, but her boyfriend, Henrik, is her inspiration. In addition to knitting designs, they’re now marketing stunning wooden knitting needles inlaid with a Norwegian pattern. When Perle arrives, though, she seems nervous and distracted. Libby’s a bit distracted herself by her mother’s efforts to set her up with Collinstown mayor Gavin Maddock, her former high school boyfriend. Her bestie, Margo, who owns a pie shop, and her bulldog, Hank, help keep her centered. But when Perle is found strangled with red yarn just before the initial event, nothing can ease Libby's feeling of doom. Luckily, she’s on good terms with the police chief, who’s willing to listen to her ideas about the murder. There are only three likely suspects: Perle’s nephew, her smarmy publisher’s representative, and Henrik. Libby can unveil the killer if only she can find the hidden motive.

Not so mysterious, but the sparkling heroine has room to grow.