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The Hartfield Mysteries #2
Crime of Fashion
Her unexpected and unwilling entrance into the world of “true crime” in Manuscript for Murder showed mystery author Alexa Hartfield an uglier side of life—one she would have been thrilled to avoid. Relieved that the horror is over, she settles back into her quiet life in Fairbury and begins work on her next novel, confident that the Fairbury police force—and Officer Joe Friedan—can and will keep any other crime far from her doorstep.
And they do.
However, life is full of change, and if Alexa thought everything would go back to normal, she’ll be disappointed! Her life just got a makeover—new house, new and changing friendships, new business venture—and with it, a new murder to rock her world.
When things start going wrong with the new business, Alexa grows concerned. When someone dies and others are threatened, Joe and Alexa begin to wonder if her life isn’t in danger as well. As they race to discover who could possibly want to hurt the new fashion line and her business partners, Alexa begins to fear for the safety of her heart as well.
And they do.
However, life is full of change, and if Alexa thought everything would go back to normal, she’ll be disappointed! Her life just got a makeover—new house, new and changing friendships, new business venture—and with it, a new murder to rock her world.
When things start going wrong with the new business, Alexa grows concerned. When someone dies and others are threatened, Joe and Alexa begin to wonder if her life isn’t in danger as well. As they race to discover who could possibly want to hurt the new fashion line and her business partners, Alexa begins to fear for the safety of her heart as well.
279 pages, ebook
First published February 16, 2013
29 people are currently reading
121 people want to read
About the author
Chautona Havig
276 books1,848 followers**fingers skittle across the keyboard. Stop. Eyelids blink over the top**
Oh, was this bio day? Oops! I forgot. I was lost in my latest manuscript. Umm... bio. Yeah.
Hi! I’m Chautona Havig. (for those who care, that’s Shuh-TONE-uh HAVE-ig). Yeah. Just work with me here. I should have used a pseudonym, but when you grow up with a name like Chautona, it kind of sticks.
Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for He who promised is faithful; and let us consider how to stimulate one another to love and good deeds, not forsaking our own assembling together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another; and all the more as you see the day drawing near. ~ Hebrews 10: 23–25
Those aren’t just words on a page for me–they’re why I write. I write to encourage my brothers and sisters in Christ. The stories I create are to make people laugh, cry, question, consider.
They’re for you.
When the world screams for hope, I try to point you to the true Source of hope–Jesus.
Sometimes life in the church no longer seems a refuge from the pain of a self-serving world around us, but through my stories, I try to point you to the only Refuge that can truly help–the Father’s Everlasting Arms.
And sometimes we just need an escape from the monotony, the emptiness we see around us. We need joy, laughter–what I like to call “just the write escape.”
Christian fiction without apology or pretense–lived, not preached.
What does that even mean?
It means I care–about you. About your walk with Jesus. I care about the words you put before your eyes, the mental pictures those words conjure. It’s difficult to express just how much I love my brothers and sisters in Christ. It’s difficult to share just how much I love you.
But I do.
And I write for you. I sit in my little house in California’s Mojave Desert and I write to show you why one sister believes one thing, why a brother believes another. I write to show you how some Christians handle trials or triumphs–for you. So when you’re faced with something–good or bad, it doesn’t matter–maybe it’ll spark a memory. Maybe that memory will smolder until you pull out your Bible and see what the Lord said about it–about His great love for you. For YOU!
And maybe, just maybe, you’ll share that love with another hurting, confused, or blessed-with-more-than-she-knows-what-to-do-with soul.
I just happen to think that’s the most blessed giving anyone could hope to receive.
Oh, was this bio day? Oops! I forgot. I was lost in my latest manuscript. Umm... bio. Yeah.
Hi! I’m Chautona Havig. (for those who care, that’s Shuh-TONE-uh HAVE-ig). Yeah. Just work with me here. I should have used a pseudonym, but when you grow up with a name like Chautona, it kind of sticks.
Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for He who promised is faithful; and let us consider how to stimulate one another to love and good deeds, not forsaking our own assembling together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another; and all the more as you see the day drawing near. ~ Hebrews 10: 23–25
Those aren’t just words on a page for me–they’re why I write. I write to encourage my brothers and sisters in Christ. The stories I create are to make people laugh, cry, question, consider.
They’re for you.
When the world screams for hope, I try to point you to the true Source of hope–Jesus.
Sometimes life in the church no longer seems a refuge from the pain of a self-serving world around us, but through my stories, I try to point you to the only Refuge that can truly help–the Father’s Everlasting Arms.
And sometimes we just need an escape from the monotony, the emptiness we see around us. We need joy, laughter–what I like to call “just the write escape.”
Christian fiction without apology or pretense–lived, not preached.
What does that even mean?
It means I care–about you. About your walk with Jesus. I care about the words you put before your eyes, the mental pictures those words conjure. It’s difficult to express just how much I love my brothers and sisters in Christ. It’s difficult to share just how much I love you.
But I do.
And I write for you. I sit in my little house in California’s Mojave Desert and I write to show you why one sister believes one thing, why a brother believes another. I write to show you how some Christians handle trials or triumphs–for you. So when you’re faced with something–good or bad, it doesn’t matter–maybe it’ll spark a memory. Maybe that memory will smolder until you pull out your Bible and see what the Lord said about it–about His great love for you. For YOU!
And maybe, just maybe, you’ll share that love with another hurting, confused, or blessed-with-more-than-she-knows-what-to-do-with soul.
I just happen to think that’s the most blessed giving anyone could hope to receive.
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Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
April 21, 2023
I was excited to read the second book in this author's dream series, but I ended up with mixed feelings.
The clothes, the cuteness, the writing, the suspense (because yes, I gobbled this book) were all there. Alexa and her big heart and the people who love her well were highlights.
Unfortunately, the things that make Alexa lovable are also kind of annoying, and they were very present in this book. I think some of that may be personal preference, but the miscommunication, emotional outbursts, and then calmness during huge moments wasn't fun to read. I found the ending especially unsatisfying, almost as if there were pages missing.
One aspect of the murders has me hoping it's not a trend for this series, since I do intend to read more.
CW: mention of murders including a presumed suicide.
The clothes, the cuteness, the writing, the suspense (because yes, I gobbled this book) were all there. Alexa and her big heart and the people who love her well were highlights.
Unfortunately, the things that make Alexa lovable are also kind of annoying, and they were very present in this book. I think some of that may be personal preference, but the miscommunication, emotional outbursts, and then calmness during huge moments wasn't fun to read. I found the ending especially unsatisfying, almost as if there were pages missing.
One aspect of the murders has me hoping it's not a trend for this series, since I do intend to read more.
CW: mention of murders including a presumed suicide.
April 15, 2024
DNF at 46%
I was growing so frustrated at the lack of communication, the assumptions being made, the insistence that the other didn't want something, and . . . well, I started skipping ahead because I wanted to find out the mystery. It wasn't worth it. I don't think that would have happened. I think the person would have done something different and it just doesn't make sense. I'm glad I didn't try to read the entire book.
Yes, I did find out that the lack of communication did get straightened up, but I'm not interested in reading the rest of this series.
I was growing so frustrated at the lack of communication, the assumptions being made, the insistence that the other didn't want something, and . . . well, I started skipping ahead because I wanted to find out the mystery. It wasn't worth it. I don't think that would have happened. I think the person would have done something different and it just doesn't make sense. I'm glad I didn't try to read the entire book.
Yes, I did find out that the lack of communication did get straightened up, but I'm not interested in reading the rest of this series.
Read
October 18, 2020A gem out of a treasure trove
What a prolific writer! I muffed it initially because I didn't realize there was a tie -in between all these series, but it's not fatal. I will try to read them in order in the future, but I think I only missed a few nuanced things by reading them as stand alone or unconnected series. They're enjoyable reading in any case, each character with his or her unique personality and history and Faith journey.
What a prolific writer! I muffed it initially because I didn't realize there was a tie -in between all these series, but it's not fatal. I will try to read them in order in the future, but I think I only missed a few nuanced things by reading them as stand alone or unconnected series. They're enjoyable reading in any case, each character with his or her unique personality and history and Faith journey.
April 25, 2020
4.5 stars. So much more impressed with this mystery than the first one in the series. Tricky and surprising! A little boggy with extraneous details, but well put together and very intriguing. I definitely found myself liking and caring about the characters much more in this story, too. Exited to read the next!
April 8, 2019
Loved it
As I continue this series and consider my reviews, I realize that they are becoming a little repetitive. With that being said, I have thoroughly enjoyed Alexa's story. None have disappointed me at all! I highly recommend this series!!
As I continue this series and consider my reviews, I realize that they are becoming a little repetitive. With that being said, I have thoroughly enjoyed Alexa's story. None have disappointed me at all! I highly recommend this series!!
July 20, 2020
So good!
I'm so captivated by this book! At first I thought it was a period piece based on the description of fashion, but then I realized it's a modern story with a fantastic heroine who loves to be unique. I can't wait to go read the rest of this series!
I'm so captivated by this book! At first I thought it was a period piece based on the description of fashion, but then I realized it's a modern story with a fantastic heroine who loves to be unique. I can't wait to go read the rest of this series!
May 5, 2025
stunning… again!
Havig has done it again with this series. Compelling characters, Christianity without churchiness, and completely charming moments sprinkled throughout like candy for your soul. I’d write more, but I need to start on the next book!
Havig has done it again with this series. Compelling characters, Christianity without churchiness, and completely charming moments sprinkled throughout like candy for your soul. I’d write more, but I need to start on the next book!
February 4, 2023
Another fun cozy mystery-style story. I can't wait to see what happens in the next book of the series!
February 29, 2024
Great read
Enjoyed book two of this series and look forward to reading more. I will check out other books by this author.
Enjoyed book two of this series and look forward to reading more. I will check out other books by this author.
July 24, 2025
this is a good story. it is the second book about a writer that likes to dress in fashion of past years. she is a mystery writer and gets caught up in murders
October 24, 2023
This is the second book I have read in this series, and it is even better than the first. The story is clean, well-written and entertaining with interesting characters. I always find myself laughing out loud at times during the story.
September 7, 2014
I really enjoyed the second book in this series. I thought it took a little while for the mystery to really begin. Of course, there was the sabotage at the store, but it seemed a little long for it to get intense.
The first part was focused on Alexa's love life. I really liked Darrin. He's an amazing Dad to Lorie and a great friend to Alexa and he eventually becomes romantically interested in her. Inwardly, though, I was rooting for Joe.
When I found out who committed the murders, I was so sad. But I did like how the author allowed you to feel sympathy for him/or her. I can't say anything else or I'll give it away. You'll just have to read the book for yourself!
Overall, I really did enjoy this book.
The first part was focused on Alexa's love life. I really liked Darrin. He's an amazing Dad to Lorie and a great friend to Alexa and he eventually becomes romantically interested in her. Inwardly, though, I was rooting for Joe.
When I found out who committed the murders, I was so sad. But I did like how the author allowed you to feel sympathy for him/or her. I can't say anything else or I'll give it away. You'll just have to read the book for yourself!
Overall, I really did enjoy this book.
September 14, 2016
I was sucked right into this book. I forced myself to read slowly, so I could take notes for a special purpose, but it was very hard to take the time to jot down the notes—I wanted to keep turning pages! There are two major threads woven together throughout the book, plus a minor one—lots going on here! As I've found in nearly all of Chautona Havig's books, there were times I laughed out loud, and times I had to really think about what she was saying. I appreciate books that make me think. I must say, I was very surprised by the ending—and I didn't like it very well. The villain was not who I expected. If you like a good mystery, or a clean romance with a clear Christian message, this book is a winner.
February 19, 2014
This book delves further into Alexa Hartfield, true crime writer. She's been asked to invest in a "vintage inspired" clothing line, abd invlovement in this business is just murder.....
Alexa has moved into her new house, decorated by her interior designer, with its lakeside view and expansive closets, as her brother Wes, and her friend Joe rent her old house. Her friendship with Darrin and Lorie expands, as does her writing.
Is that jealousy coming from Joe? Is the business doomed to fail? Will Wes ask Heather to marry him? Will Darrin ask Alexa if they can grow closer? Will all of Alexa's few friends die?
It's a book that will keep you guessing. A fast, well written read
Alexa has moved into her new house, decorated by her interior designer, with its lakeside view and expansive closets, as her brother Wes, and her friend Joe rent her old house. Her friendship with Darrin and Lorie expands, as does her writing.
Is that jealousy coming from Joe? Is the business doomed to fail? Will Wes ask Heather to marry him? Will Darrin ask Alexa if they can grow closer? Will all of Alexa's few friends die?
It's a book that will keep you guessing. A fast, well written read
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 12, 2014
This is one of the few mysteries I have read in which I did not guess the villain ahead of time. I did wonder, about ten pages before the denouement, but it seemed so unlikely!
I like this series. It's clean (I mean, well-written without a lot of furbelows) and entertaining, and the characters have depth to them. You can understand their motivations.
Many of us want to be as independent and free-spirited as Alexa. Do keep reading the series! In subsequent books, we begin to understand how she became the person she is.
I like this series. It's clean (I mean, well-written without a lot of furbelows) and entertaining, and the characters have depth to them. You can understand their motivations.
Many of us want to be as independent and free-spirited as Alexa. Do keep reading the series! In subsequent books, we begin to understand how she became the person she is.
September 8, 2016
This was my second time reading this book, having read it first about three years ago. My first time through, I found this mystery incredibly engaging and was quite surprised at the reveal. Since I knew where it was going this time, I found I actually enjoyed it even more the second time through. There are so many hilarious conversations and lots of great relationship building that I think I read too quickly the first time because I was desperate to figure out the mystery. I love a series that gets better with every re-read, and this one is definitely a favorite now.
August 15, 2014
Once again, I do not know how Chautona Havig does it! Another great story. I worry that this may prove to be the penultimate novel featuring Alexa and Joe. Please don't let this be a trilogy like Aggie!
She has such a great imagination. I read the kindle book and found some typos of punctuation. Not bad, but I wish I could fix them as I seem to always read with a red pencil in my mind....
The worst part is that now I have to go buy the next book!
She has such a great imagination. I read the kindle book and found some typos of punctuation. Not bad, but I wish I could fix them as I seem to always read with a red pencil in my mind....
The worst part is that now I have to go buy the next book!
August 7, 2016
Crime of Fashion stunned me. Just when you thought Alexa's life would settle into a new normal, another murder happens. As she struggles to figure out why she has been shutting people out of her life, Joe's friendship helps her realize that she does need people in her day to day life. I couldn't put this book down. It was a perfect travel day companion.
April 14, 2013
Oh my! What a wonderful book. I love the Hartfield Mysteries and I really love Alexa and Joe and I'm happy that they realized that they are in love with each other. I highly recommend this book to anyone who loves a little romance with a dash of mystery. I can't wait for book 3.
January 24, 2016
It's enjoyable to read a book that keeps you on the edge of your chair. I loved this story!
It's also fun to see many of the characters from other books of Chautona's show their faces in this book.
I love how she weaves each story and the flow they bring!
It's also fun to see many of the characters from other books of Chautona's show their faces in this book.
I love how she weaves each story and the flow they bring!
May 9, 2014
Clever plot
September 15, 2016
I'm learning that I like murder mysteries from certain authors. This one is another great story, and I can't wait to read the sequel!
July 23, 2016
Good characters and suspense
Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews