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Whisky Business Mystery #4
Died in the Wool
No good deed goes unpunished in the Whisky Business cozy mystery series as distillery owner Abigail Logan uncovers dark secrets—and murder—at a local charity.
Photojournalist Abi Logan is finally ready to put her hectic career on hold and set down roots in the heart of the Scottish countryside. Studying the business and art of distilling whisky at Abbey Glen and volunteering at the Shepherd’s Rest women’s shelter in her spare time seem a surefire way to find the peace and stability she craves. It’s also the logical way to take her mind off her personal life. Abi’s business partner, Grant MacEwan, is facing a career-threatening disability, and as much as Abi longs to be there for him, he seems to prefer the company of a rival.
But as Abi becomes more involved with Shepherd’s Rest, she discovers that their refuge is elusive. When the shelter is rocked by a murder/suicide, Abi is outraged by the police’s lack of attention to these already marginalized women. Increasingly confident in her own skills as an investigator, Abi steps in to find out what the police will not: who left one young woman dead and another missing. But when more deadly deeds come to light, Abi must race to unravel the connections between the shelter’s benefactors and the women they have pledged to protect—and expose the killer before he strikes again.
Melinda Mullet’s delightful Whisky Business mysteries can be read together or separately. Enjoy responsibly.
Photojournalist Abi Logan is finally ready to put her hectic career on hold and set down roots in the heart of the Scottish countryside. Studying the business and art of distilling whisky at Abbey Glen and volunteering at the Shepherd’s Rest women’s shelter in her spare time seem a surefire way to find the peace and stability she craves. It’s also the logical way to take her mind off her personal life. Abi’s business partner, Grant MacEwan, is facing a career-threatening disability, and as much as Abi longs to be there for him, he seems to prefer the company of a rival.
But as Abi becomes more involved with Shepherd’s Rest, she discovers that their refuge is elusive. When the shelter is rocked by a murder/suicide, Abi is outraged by the police’s lack of attention to these already marginalized women. Increasingly confident in her own skills as an investigator, Abi steps in to find out what the police will not: who left one young woman dead and another missing. But when more deadly deeds come to light, Abi must race to unravel the connections between the shelter’s benefactors and the women they have pledged to protect—and expose the killer before he strikes again.
Melinda Mullet’s delightful Whisky Business mysteries can be read together or separately. Enjoy responsibly.
247 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 14, 2019
118 people are currently reading
380 people want to read
About the author
Melinda Mullet
9 books281 followersMelinda Mullet is the author of the Whisky Business Mysteries, a six-part series of traditional mysteries set in and around a boutique single malt whisky distillery in Scotland. And coming in July 2025 the first of a new traditional series, A Ghostwriter’s Guide to Murder, set on a houseboat along the Regent’s Canal in London.
Melinda is a travel junkie and a life-long advocate for children’s literacy causes both domestic and international. When she is not in the UK, she lives just outside of Washington, DC with her whisky-collecting husband and two wild Covid canines named Bailey and Captain Jack. Find her at MelindaMullet.com or on Facebook and Insta at Melinda Mullet, Author.
Melinda is a travel junkie and a life-long advocate for children’s literacy causes both domestic and international. When she is not in the UK, she lives just outside of Washington, DC with her whisky-collecting husband and two wild Covid canines named Bailey and Captain Jack. Find her at MelindaMullet.com or on Facebook and Insta at Melinda Mullet, Author.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 89 reviews
January 21, 2020
Died in the Wool is the fourth book in the Whisky Business Mystery series by Melinda Mullet. I began reading the series about two years ago when I saw it was set at a whisky distillery in Scotland, but I continued to read it because the characters and plots are wonderful. In this caper, Abi gets involved in volunteering on the board for a home run by a not-for-profit organization that protects battered women. She's trying to decide what to do about her feelings for the Scotsman, Grant MacEwan, including how to run the distillery if he's no longer involved, based on an injury in the last book. And then there are those pesky sheep she rescues; it's time for sheering but she's lost on the process. Let's not forget Patrick, the best friend I'd like to meet one day, and his new relationship woes. Throw in a murder, organic farming trends, and drugs... you've got a well-rounded mystery with dynamic characters.
Mullet's books are always easy to read and quite enjoyable. I look forward to them more than most other series because of how rich the setting and characters are. The author balances the perfect amount of details with subtle hints about the person's appearance, just enough to picture it but also throw in your own ideas. I feel like I'm on the hills or at the distillery, and I like how Abi has no family around her -- it makes her rely on friends even more. I wonder what it'd be like in that situation... I might drink too much of the whisky, I suppose. That's the other great thing about this series: you learn a lot and have an opportunity to understand something you might not normally be privy to without traveling somewhere.
If you enjoy a setting that's not in a small town in America (love them too, but this is a good alternative), with culture and a different appeal, this would be a great one to sample. You can read them out of order, as they are standalone mysteries, but it's always better to read from the beginning. While Abi's personal life is certainly a focus, this one is mostly about the major mystery at the shelter where a young woman dies from an apparent drug overdose. Abi investigates and finds her fellow board members aren't all on the up-and-up. There are also a few other suspects who have a piece in this puzzle, as well as a new detective from a different town that makes Abi's sleuthing complicated. All in all, a fun and delightful read. I highly recommend it for anyone who loves a little extra in their cozy mysteries and enjoys an international story.
Mullet's books are always easy to read and quite enjoyable. I look forward to them more than most other series because of how rich the setting and characters are. The author balances the perfect amount of details with subtle hints about the person's appearance, just enough to picture it but also throw in your own ideas. I feel like I'm on the hills or at the distillery, and I like how Abi has no family around her -- it makes her rely on friends even more. I wonder what it'd be like in that situation... I might drink too much of the whisky, I suppose. That's the other great thing about this series: you learn a lot and have an opportunity to understand something you might not normally be privy to without traveling somewhere.
If you enjoy a setting that's not in a small town in America (love them too, but this is a good alternative), with culture and a different appeal, this would be a great one to sample. You can read them out of order, as they are standalone mysteries, but it's always better to read from the beginning. While Abi's personal life is certainly a focus, this one is mostly about the major mystery at the shelter where a young woman dies from an apparent drug overdose. Abi investigates and finds her fellow board members aren't all on the up-and-up. There are also a few other suspects who have a piece in this puzzle, as well as a new detective from a different town that makes Abi's sleuthing complicated. All in all, a fun and delightful read. I highly recommend it for anyone who loves a little extra in their cozy mysteries and enjoys an international story.
June 9, 2019
My thanks to NetGalley and the Alibi Division of Random House Publishing for providing me with an Advanced Digital Read copy of DIED IN THE WOOL by Melinda Mullet. This is the fourth book in the Whiskey Business series by Mullet, and my second read, having read DEADLY DRAM just last year. I’m delighted to report that this is another excellent entry in an intriguing series.
In this series, Abi Logan, former photojournalist has inherited part ownership of a whiskey distillery and an estate in Scotland. On this occasion, Abi is working to reconcile her feelings for her partner, Grant who was injured in an attack meant for her in the previous book. The details of that book are not necessary as the reader can easily catch up to what is happening between the two people, along with Breena, Grant’s former fiance, who appeared in the last book and has moved in with Grant, declaring herself chief guardian of his health and, in a surprise statement, Grant’s fiance.
The feelings between Grant and Abi as well as where their relationship goes from here is only a small part of the book, although if the reader is invested in the series they will be interested in reading what happens. Most of the book focuses on the new mystery which develops when Abi is forced to deal with the problem of excess wool growing on the herd of sheep she has rescued from various unhappy fates. She has developed something of a reputation of a home for unwanted sheep which she takes and gives literary names. Much to her chagrin she learns she must have the sheep shorn for their health which poses the question of what to do with the wool.
In terms of finding a need and filling it, a friend of Abi’s introduces her to a woman who owns a knitting shop and who also runs a women’s shelter called Shepherd’s Rest. Abi is just getting acquainted when she becomes aware of an unsavory lawyer who is trying to railroad the shelter’s inhabitants into a less than desirable property. If there is anything Abi can’t stand it’s someone being taken advantage of, so when she’s asked to become a board member and try to help the shelter ward off this particular problem, she agrees and immediately becomes immersed in their situation.
Things get more complicated when one of the shelter resident’s winds up dead and although it looks like suicide the shelter director, as well as Abi and other residents, has her doubts. Abi agrees to investigate and calls in help from a detective she has worked with in the past. Although it’s not in his jurisdiction, he agrees to speak to the local authorities and urges Abi to leave it at that.
Unable to do that, Abi begins an investigation of her own. Meanwhile another resident disappears, leaving her ten year old daughter abandoned. This convinces Abi the disappearance is either a kidnapping or worse, and she moves into high gear trying to solve both mysteries, the death of the first resident and now the disappearance of another.
There are some regular characters who appear in this novel who are part of Abi’s regular world. How Abi involves Patrick, one of her friends from her old life and Louisa, a new friend and Grant’s housekeeper add color to the story and substance to Abi’s relationships in general. Mullet provides enough information about the various relationships that the reader can “catch up” quickly, however if you are a person who enjoys reading about relationships as they develop I recommend reading the series from the beginning.
These murders, along with several other mysteries that are revealed as the book progresses, are well crafted. There are plenty of clues along the way and the veteran mystery reader may find the solution one they reach before finishing the book. However, the story is so well written and tightly crafted, solving the mystery is unlikely to negatively affect the reader’s enjoyment of the story.
This is a classic cozy and an excellent example of how to craft a good mystery and develop characters who are interesting and whom the reader would enjoy knowing all at the same time. It is also placed in Scotland which adds to the interest as the reader gets to spend a little time in that country without feeling as if (s)he is reading a travelog.
This is a book and series I highly recommend. Here’s hoping Abi and company continue to develop and provide new and interesting mysteries for us to solve.
In this series, Abi Logan, former photojournalist has inherited part ownership of a whiskey distillery and an estate in Scotland. On this occasion, Abi is working to reconcile her feelings for her partner, Grant who was injured in an attack meant for her in the previous book. The details of that book are not necessary as the reader can easily catch up to what is happening between the two people, along with Breena, Grant’s former fiance, who appeared in the last book and has moved in with Grant, declaring herself chief guardian of his health and, in a surprise statement, Grant’s fiance.
The feelings between Grant and Abi as well as where their relationship goes from here is only a small part of the book, although if the reader is invested in the series they will be interested in reading what happens. Most of the book focuses on the new mystery which develops when Abi is forced to deal with the problem of excess wool growing on the herd of sheep she has rescued from various unhappy fates. She has developed something of a reputation of a home for unwanted sheep which she takes and gives literary names. Much to her chagrin she learns she must have the sheep shorn for their health which poses the question of what to do with the wool.
In terms of finding a need and filling it, a friend of Abi’s introduces her to a woman who owns a knitting shop and who also runs a women’s shelter called Shepherd’s Rest. Abi is just getting acquainted when she becomes aware of an unsavory lawyer who is trying to railroad the shelter’s inhabitants into a less than desirable property. If there is anything Abi can’t stand it’s someone being taken advantage of, so when she’s asked to become a board member and try to help the shelter ward off this particular problem, she agrees and immediately becomes immersed in their situation.
Things get more complicated when one of the shelter resident’s winds up dead and although it looks like suicide the shelter director, as well as Abi and other residents, has her doubts. Abi agrees to investigate and calls in help from a detective she has worked with in the past. Although it’s not in his jurisdiction, he agrees to speak to the local authorities and urges Abi to leave it at that.
Unable to do that, Abi begins an investigation of her own. Meanwhile another resident disappears, leaving her ten year old daughter abandoned. This convinces Abi the disappearance is either a kidnapping or worse, and she moves into high gear trying to solve both mysteries, the death of the first resident and now the disappearance of another.
There are some regular characters who appear in this novel who are part of Abi’s regular world. How Abi involves Patrick, one of her friends from her old life and Louisa, a new friend and Grant’s housekeeper add color to the story and substance to Abi’s relationships in general. Mullet provides enough information about the various relationships that the reader can “catch up” quickly, however if you are a person who enjoys reading about relationships as they develop I recommend reading the series from the beginning.
These murders, along with several other mysteries that are revealed as the book progresses, are well crafted. There are plenty of clues along the way and the veteran mystery reader may find the solution one they reach before finishing the book. However, the story is so well written and tightly crafted, solving the mystery is unlikely to negatively affect the reader’s enjoyment of the story.
This is a classic cozy and an excellent example of how to craft a good mystery and develop characters who are interesting and whom the reader would enjoy knowing all at the same time. It is also placed in Scotland which adds to the interest as the reader gets to spend a little time in that country without feeling as if (s)he is reading a travelog.
This is a book and series I highly recommend. Here’s hoping Abi and company continue to develop and provide new and interesting mysteries for us to solve.
June 29, 2019
Dollycas’s Thoughts
Abi Logan is getting much more comfortable in her role as a distillery owner. She is taking classes to enrich her knowledge especially with her partner recovering from an injury that could end his career.
She also is dealing with her ever-growing herd of rescued sheep who badly need to be sheered. When the local vet tells her not clipping their wool could be called animal abuse she promises to handle it right away but hates the thought of just throwing all the wool away. A reverend that was traveling with the vet tells her he knows someone who will take the wool, Amanda, the owner of a knitting shop who donates part of her profits to a shelter for abused woman. Abi sets up a meeting, she and Amanda hit it off right away. Abi is thrilled when she meets some of the women at the shelter and sees how the operation is run. She thinks the shelter is a perfect match to work with her foundation.
Shortly after their meeting one of the women is found dead. The police feel the woman took her own life, but Amanda and Ali think otherwise. When another of the woman goes missing leaving her daughter behind, Abi finds herself embroiled in the middle of her own investigation. Time is of the essence because the killer could strike again and Abi could be the victim.
_____
I love the way Melinda Mullet tells a story. She continues to top herself.
Ms. Mullet quickly transports readers to Balfour and Edinburgh, Scotland and all their glory. Her words paint beautiful pictures in my mind of each place as we follow with Abi on her quest to catch a killer.
The human characters are well developed with lives that ebb and flow realistically. The sheep, who all have names, and Abi’s dog, Liam and their antics add a great touch to the story too. Abi finally starts to realize her true feelings for Grant but it may be too late. Grant’s recovery is monitored by another woman who is doing all she can to become a permanent part of his life. A woman who may not only steal him from Abi but from Abbey Glen Abi has grown so much over the course of this series. She is truly becoming a vital part of her business. I like all the positive steps she has taken to make herself at home.
The author has taken on an international issue – domestic abuse. Through this, we are introduced to several new characters, they are all connected to the Shepherd’s Rest Shelter. The women living there, one with her amazing daughter, members of the board, and Amanda the director. These characters are complex, some are really shady and downright corrupt.
I have to say many parts hit me emotionally. The storyline was gripping and held my interest tightly. I enjoyed the twists, they kept me guessing right up to the very end. I read the entire thing in almost one sitting. I took a short break for food and discussed the book at the table, then skipped dessert to get back to reading.
The characters draw you in, the story is very well-written, the location is ideal. Learning more about distilling whisky is always a fun bonus.
Every book in this series is top-notch. I highly recommend every one. The author is generous and gives enough history of previous books that they can each be read on their own but for maximum enjoyment, you will want to read them all in order. This book on my Best Reads of 2019 list!
Abi Logan is getting much more comfortable in her role as a distillery owner. She is taking classes to enrich her knowledge especially with her partner recovering from an injury that could end his career.
She also is dealing with her ever-growing herd of rescued sheep who badly need to be sheered. When the local vet tells her not clipping their wool could be called animal abuse she promises to handle it right away but hates the thought of just throwing all the wool away. A reverend that was traveling with the vet tells her he knows someone who will take the wool, Amanda, the owner of a knitting shop who donates part of her profits to a shelter for abused woman. Abi sets up a meeting, she and Amanda hit it off right away. Abi is thrilled when she meets some of the women at the shelter and sees how the operation is run. She thinks the shelter is a perfect match to work with her foundation.
Shortly after their meeting one of the women is found dead. The police feel the woman took her own life, but Amanda and Ali think otherwise. When another of the woman goes missing leaving her daughter behind, Abi finds herself embroiled in the middle of her own investigation. Time is of the essence because the killer could strike again and Abi could be the victim.
_____
I love the way Melinda Mullet tells a story. She continues to top herself.
Ms. Mullet quickly transports readers to Balfour and Edinburgh, Scotland and all their glory. Her words paint beautiful pictures in my mind of each place as we follow with Abi on her quest to catch a killer.
The human characters are well developed with lives that ebb and flow realistically. The sheep, who all have names, and Abi’s dog, Liam and their antics add a great touch to the story too. Abi finally starts to realize her true feelings for Grant but it may be too late. Grant’s recovery is monitored by another woman who is doing all she can to become a permanent part of his life. A woman who may not only steal him from Abi but from Abbey Glen Abi has grown so much over the course of this series. She is truly becoming a vital part of her business. I like all the positive steps she has taken to make herself at home.
The author has taken on an international issue – domestic abuse. Through this, we are introduced to several new characters, they are all connected to the Shepherd’s Rest Shelter. The women living there, one with her amazing daughter, members of the board, and Amanda the director. These characters are complex, some are really shady and downright corrupt.
I have to say many parts hit me emotionally. The storyline was gripping and held my interest tightly. I enjoyed the twists, they kept me guessing right up to the very end. I read the entire thing in almost one sitting. I took a short break for food and discussed the book at the table, then skipped dessert to get back to reading.
The characters draw you in, the story is very well-written, the location is ideal. Learning more about distilling whisky is always a fun bonus.
Every book in this series is top-notch. I highly recommend every one. The author is generous and gives enough history of previous books that they can each be read on their own but for maximum enjoyment, you will want to read them all in order. This book on my Best Reads of 2019 list!
June 23, 2019
4.5 Stars. This is the fourth in the Whisky Business Mystery series, but the first that I have read. I recommend that you read the others before this one as I missed a lot of the back story and character development. Having said that, I did really enjoy this story and will be going back and reading the first three in the series.
Abi Logan is a former photojournalist who has inherited part ownership of a whiskey distillery, an estate in Scotland and a charitable trust. She has also inadvertently opened a sheep sanctuary. There is a lot going on in this story. Her partner, and former romantic interest, Grant, was injured in a previous book and is recuperating. His former girlfriend has arrived from Wales to nurse him and announced to everyone that they are engaged. While dealing with this, she is approached by the local vet and Minister about shearing her sheep and donating the wool to a store that supports the local women's shelter. This is right up Abi's alley and when she goes to meet Amanda, the young woman who runs the store and the shelter, she is asked if she would be interested in serving on the Board. Abi agrees and gets her self caught up in a murder and disappearance of two of the residents.
I really enjoyed the story, the characters, the plot and the mystery. There was a lot happening in this story, but it all tied together nicely. This was a very well-crafted and well-paced mystery. With many suspects, some red herrings and twists, I never figured out what was going on until just before the big reveal. I loved the showdown. There was sneaking around, danger, fire, and a daring escape followed by a dressing down by the local law enforcement. The characters are wonderful, both the main ones and the secondary ones. They are realistic and likeable. Their problems are real, things that happen in today's world, and could happen to anyone (maybe not the murder part). A wonderful part of this story is the interactions and friendships. Abi is a great protagonist, she is smart, caring, independent and of course willing to do what she believes in right. The Scottish countryside with the distilleries and downtown Edinburgh are both lovely places to set this series. Well done Melinda Mullet, you have a new fan. The publisher generously provided me with a copy of this book upon request. The rating, ideas and opinions shared are my own.
Abi Logan is a former photojournalist who has inherited part ownership of a whiskey distillery, an estate in Scotland and a charitable trust. She has also inadvertently opened a sheep sanctuary. There is a lot going on in this story. Her partner, and former romantic interest, Grant, was injured in a previous book and is recuperating. His former girlfriend has arrived from Wales to nurse him and announced to everyone that they are engaged. While dealing with this, she is approached by the local vet and Minister about shearing her sheep and donating the wool to a store that supports the local women's shelter. This is right up Abi's alley and when she goes to meet Amanda, the young woman who runs the store and the shelter, she is asked if she would be interested in serving on the Board. Abi agrees and gets her self caught up in a murder and disappearance of two of the residents.
I really enjoyed the story, the characters, the plot and the mystery. There was a lot happening in this story, but it all tied together nicely. This was a very well-crafted and well-paced mystery. With many suspects, some red herrings and twists, I never figured out what was going on until just before the big reveal. I loved the showdown. There was sneaking around, danger, fire, and a daring escape followed by a dressing down by the local law enforcement. The characters are wonderful, both the main ones and the secondary ones. They are realistic and likeable. Their problems are real, things that happen in today's world, and could happen to anyone (maybe not the murder part). A wonderful part of this story is the interactions and friendships. Abi is a great protagonist, she is smart, caring, independent and of course willing to do what she believes in right. The Scottish countryside with the distilleries and downtown Edinburgh are both lovely places to set this series. Well done Melinda Mullet, you have a new fan. The publisher generously provided me with a copy of this book upon request. The rating, ideas and opinions shared are my own.
June 21, 2019
This was another intriguing visit to Scotland Abi and all her friends, which have become like old friends to me. I just love the older guy Hunter that comes and takes care of the house and kind of acts like a butler sometimes. Abi joined the board of a women's shelter in Edinburgh and soon found out that all kinds of underhanded things were going on, especially after one of the shelter guests turned up dead and their housekeeper/cook went missing. Abi's whisky business partner Grant was still recovering from an injury he received in the last book and putting up with his former girlfriend Brenna. It was good to see him break away from that and go sleuthing with Abi and Patrick--and it made him feel useful again. In retrospect, going where they did may not have been the best idea, but at least Abi and Grant might have realized by working together that they'd been missing being together. It seemed like Abi was happy to be able to use her time and some of Ben's money that he'd left her to help out a good cause like the women's shelter, and she made some new friends in the process.
I liked how everything wrapped up and was explained as well as telling what some of the women at the shelter were now going to do with their lives. With the rest of the nice ending this book got, I'm very anxious to read the next one!
I liked how everything wrapped up and was explained as well as telling what some of the women at the shelter were now going to do with their lives. With the rest of the nice ending this book got, I'm very anxious to read the next one!
June 14, 2019
I really enjoy this series so much - after 3 books, the characters have really grown and gelled and you totally can see them as a cohesive unit and I have grown to really like them and the whiskey business, which is TOTALLY fascinating. I am finding that I wish there was more about the whiskey business and less mystery; guess its time to find a book about whiskey making!! ;-)
Abi has very good intentions in this one - after Grant is seriously injured in the previous book and is now dealing with lasting repercussions of that, Abi is ready to just do her job; working at the distillery and with her foundation. And it is in that capacity that she heads over to Shepherd's Rest to help them out with wool [from her ever growing sheep herd] and end up being nominated to their board and steps in just as all heck is breaking loose. And then one of the residents of Shepherd's Rest dies and all of Abi's good intentions goes to heck in a hand-basket!! Throw in a lot of suspicious characters and of course some dangerous situations and you have an almost perfect cozy read. I truly hope that the author continues to write this series as it is fast becoming one of my favorites.
A BIG thank you to NetGalley and Random House Group/Alibi Publishing for providing this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Abi has very good intentions in this one - after Grant is seriously injured in the previous book and is now dealing with lasting repercussions of that, Abi is ready to just do her job; working at the distillery and with her foundation. And it is in that capacity that she heads over to Shepherd's Rest to help them out with wool [from her ever growing sheep herd] and end up being nominated to their board and steps in just as all heck is breaking loose. And then one of the residents of Shepherd's Rest dies and all of Abi's good intentions goes to heck in a hand-basket!! Throw in a lot of suspicious characters and of course some dangerous situations and you have an almost perfect cozy read. I truly hope that the author continues to write this series as it is fast becoming one of my favorites.
A BIG thank you to NetGalley and Random House Group/Alibi Publishing for providing this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
June 27, 2019
*I received a free copy of this book which I voluntarily chose to write an honest review for.
What an adorable new addition to this fun cozy mystery series! Abbey is really starting to get the hang of the whiskey business and is even taking a class to learn even more giving !it's of chances for us to learn a tidbit of two. Grant is still having health issue making him cranky as well as his domineering guest. As if that is not enough the new reverand hopes she will get involved in a local woman's shelter when she needs help with her sheep who are a hoot I must say. Tackling this project gets complicated though when one woman ends up dead, the landlord is trying to move them, and a few more twists make life even nuttier as she tries to juggle it all. Great mystery that really keeps you guessing blended well with characters you can love and events to keep it all moving. I think all the critters are my all time fave though that ending gives me high hopes for the next book in the series. Perfect for fans of cozies. I really liked it so I give it 4/5 stars.
What an adorable new addition to this fun cozy mystery series! Abbey is really starting to get the hang of the whiskey business and is even taking a class to learn even more giving !it's of chances for us to learn a tidbit of two. Grant is still having health issue making him cranky as well as his domineering guest. As if that is not enough the new reverand hopes she will get involved in a local woman's shelter when she needs help with her sheep who are a hoot I must say. Tackling this project gets complicated though when one woman ends up dead, the landlord is trying to move them, and a few more twists make life even nuttier as she tries to juggle it all. Great mystery that really keeps you guessing blended well with characters you can love and events to keep it all moving. I think all the critters are my all time fave though that ending gives me high hopes for the next book in the series. Perfect for fans of cozies. I really liked it so I give it 4/5 stars.
May 18, 2019
I really enjoy this series, and Died in the Wool is a fantastic addition. This series reads a bit more like a traditional mystery than a cozy but that is fine with me. The characters are well written and come alive on the page. Abigail is a mature, independent woman but she can certainly find trouble when all she is trying to do good. The secondary cast of characters are well developed and complete the story nicely. I enjoy Abi's friendship with Patrick and her romance with Grant is progressing nicely. The story tackles a difficult subject matter, abused women, when Abi takes a seat of the board of a women's shelter. The mystery kept me engaged and the author does a nice job of throwing in some twists and clues designed to mislead. I wasn't surprised by the identity of the culprit but I didn't guess the reason.
This is a well written series that has strong, well developed characters and engaging mysteries that keep me guessing as well as turning pages. I will definitely be back for more books in the series.
I voluntarily read an advanced reader copy provided to me by the publisher, through Netgalley.
This is a well written series that has strong, well developed characters and engaging mysteries that keep me guessing as well as turning pages. I will definitely be back for more books in the series.
I voluntarily read an advanced reader copy provided to me by the publisher, through Netgalley.
June 18, 2019
Reviewed at The Power of Words: https://bit.ly/2WRA4gn
This cozy mystery series by Melinda Mullet is quickly becoming one of my very favorites and Died in the Wool is the best story yet. All four books are wonderful, but I had a special connection with this one.
First of all, what’s not to love about a Scottish setting? Whether it’s the city of Edinburgh or rural setting of Abbey Glen, the author conveys the atmospheric setting beautifully. Secondly, don’t be turned off by the fact that this series is about a family whisky business because it’s so much more. “Rich” is how I would describe this story – rich in characterization and complexity of storyline.
Each story stands alone, but reading in order gives a much more satisfying experience because you gain a familiarity with the series characters and their growth. Grant is back, struggling with an injury from the end of the previous novel that threatens the very essence of his work as Abigail’s business partner. Abi begins to realize the depth of her feelings for Grant, but is it merely because of another woman’s presence?
With her photojournalist background and caring nature for those in need, Abi is a strong, compelling and oh-so-appealing lead character. And I love her collection of 20 Cheviot sheep that she rescued from the slaughterhouse! “Everyone finds their own Zen. Mine walked on four hooves and bleated.” The sheep are actually the driving force in this story, because their need to be sheared leads Abi to Amanda’s knitwear shop, where half of her profits help fund the Shepherd’s Rest, a retreat for abused women. She soon becomes a board member, surrounded by people whose passion should be in helping these women, but all is not as it seems – especially when murder rears its ugly head.
Died in the Wool had a strong emotional connection for me and I cannot say enough good things about it. There’s a poignancy and complexity to both characters and mystery storyline, making it hard to put down, yet not wanting the story to end at the same time. Died in the Wool, as well as the whole series, is an outstanding novel that is a cut above other stories in this genre.
Highly recommended.
I received a copy of this book through Great Escapes Tours. The opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.
This cozy mystery series by Melinda Mullet is quickly becoming one of my very favorites and Died in the Wool is the best story yet. All four books are wonderful, but I had a special connection with this one.
First of all, what’s not to love about a Scottish setting? Whether it’s the city of Edinburgh or rural setting of Abbey Glen, the author conveys the atmospheric setting beautifully. Secondly, don’t be turned off by the fact that this series is about a family whisky business because it’s so much more. “Rich” is how I would describe this story – rich in characterization and complexity of storyline.
Each story stands alone, but reading in order gives a much more satisfying experience because you gain a familiarity with the series characters and their growth. Grant is back, struggling with an injury from the end of the previous novel that threatens the very essence of his work as Abigail’s business partner. Abi begins to realize the depth of her feelings for Grant, but is it merely because of another woman’s presence?
With her photojournalist background and caring nature for those in need, Abi is a strong, compelling and oh-so-appealing lead character. And I love her collection of 20 Cheviot sheep that she rescued from the slaughterhouse! “Everyone finds their own Zen. Mine walked on four hooves and bleated.” The sheep are actually the driving force in this story, because their need to be sheared leads Abi to Amanda’s knitwear shop, where half of her profits help fund the Shepherd’s Rest, a retreat for abused women. She soon becomes a board member, surrounded by people whose passion should be in helping these women, but all is not as it seems – especially when murder rears its ugly head.
Died in the Wool had a strong emotional connection for me and I cannot say enough good things about it. There’s a poignancy and complexity to both characters and mystery storyline, making it hard to put down, yet not wanting the story to end at the same time. Died in the Wool, as well as the whole series, is an outstanding novel that is a cut above other stories in this genre.
Highly recommended.
I received a copy of this book through Great Escapes Tours. The opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.
June 23, 2019
DIED IN THE WOOL by Melinda Mullet
The Fourth Whisky Business Mystery
The Shepherd's Rest is in trouble and it's going to take more than the wool donated from Abi Logan's geriatric sheep to solve it. Their landlord, who also happens to be a board member, wants the residents out within the month and moved to a dilapidated building in a sketchy neighborhood. Quickly joining the board to help the woman's shelter Abi is determined to discover the reason for the sudden move. She uncovers greed, abuse, kidnapping and murder.
Not only does Abi tackle the problems at the shelter, she has to face problems on the home front as well. Her master distiller is recovering from their last adventure. Struggling with the fact he may not smell or taste again Grant is also being smothered by his overprotective old flame. Abi is forced not only to face her own feelings for him, but the future of her distillery.
DIED IN THE WOOL is about standing up for yourself, taking a chance, and conquering your fears. It takes a realistic look at societal issues such as domestic violence, sexual abuse, and the good old boys club.
I love so many things about this book and this series. The characters are richly complex. Abi struggles with her fear of commitment and misgivings about her ability in the world of whisky. Her relationship with Grant is complicated, to say the least, but the tension is riveting. The ambiance is delightful, a whisky distillery in Scotland with a collection of undesirable sheep, now wanted, along with a lovable dog named Liam.
DIED IN THE WOOL is a mystery that grabs you by the heart. Grappling with some of today's most troubling issues while providing an entertaining and thought provoking mystery it's a mystery not to be missed.
FTC Disclosure – The publisher sent me a digital ARC provided through NetGalley, in the hopes I would review it.
The Fourth Whisky Business Mystery
The Shepherd's Rest is in trouble and it's going to take more than the wool donated from Abi Logan's geriatric sheep to solve it. Their landlord, who also happens to be a board member, wants the residents out within the month and moved to a dilapidated building in a sketchy neighborhood. Quickly joining the board to help the woman's shelter Abi is determined to discover the reason for the sudden move. She uncovers greed, abuse, kidnapping and murder.
Not only does Abi tackle the problems at the shelter, she has to face problems on the home front as well. Her master distiller is recovering from their last adventure. Struggling with the fact he may not smell or taste again Grant is also being smothered by his overprotective old flame. Abi is forced not only to face her own feelings for him, but the future of her distillery.
DIED IN THE WOOL is about standing up for yourself, taking a chance, and conquering your fears. It takes a realistic look at societal issues such as domestic violence, sexual abuse, and the good old boys club.
I love so many things about this book and this series. The characters are richly complex. Abi struggles with her fear of commitment and misgivings about her ability in the world of whisky. Her relationship with Grant is complicated, to say the least, but the tension is riveting. The ambiance is delightful, a whisky distillery in Scotland with a collection of undesirable sheep, now wanted, along with a lovable dog named Liam.
DIED IN THE WOOL is a mystery that grabs you by the heart. Grappling with some of today's most troubling issues while providing an entertaining and thought provoking mystery it's a mystery not to be missed.
FTC Disclosure – The publisher sent me a digital ARC provided through NetGalley, in the hopes I would review it.
June 13, 2019
Died in the Wool is the fourth installment in Melinda Mullet’s Whiskey Business Mystery series. We pick up as we left off in the previous novel, Deadly Dram, with Grant MacEwan, business partner in Abbey Glen Distillery, continuing to recover from a brutal attack at a whiskey conference under the watchful eye of his former girlfriend, Brenna. With Grant sidelined, and having lasting effects that may end his days of mixing the Glen’s award winning whiskey blends, Abi comes up with the idea of issuing a single cask edition with a special bottle created by retired rocker Rory Hendricks.
Meanwhile, Abi’s flock of retired sheep need shearing. Her handyman Hunter arranges for the shearing while Vicar Craig Anderson puts Abi in touch with Amanda Forrester, owner of Woolies, a yarn and knitting shop. Amanda also happens to be director of Shepherd’s Rest in Edinburgh, a shelter for abused women. What begins as a donation of wool quickly becomes a position as Abi is offered the board seat of a recent retiree, which she accepts when she learns of the underhanded ploys of some of the board members.
When one of the young women at the shelter dies after babysitting for one of the less than scrupulous board members and the lady who works as the honorary house mother disappears, Abi is drawn into the investigations. She calls in favors from Detective Inspector Ian Michaelson and her best friend Patrick Cooke, and fronts the ransom money when it is demanded.
Once again Ms. Mullet has woven an exciting mystery with rich characters and varied settings. She has masterfully plotted a mystery that will keep you guessing until the end. And it is a very satisfying ending, indeed. I did enjoy this book and I do recommend it!
Meanwhile, Abi’s flock of retired sheep need shearing. Her handyman Hunter arranges for the shearing while Vicar Craig Anderson puts Abi in touch with Amanda Forrester, owner of Woolies, a yarn and knitting shop. Amanda also happens to be director of Shepherd’s Rest in Edinburgh, a shelter for abused women. What begins as a donation of wool quickly becomes a position as Abi is offered the board seat of a recent retiree, which she accepts when she learns of the underhanded ploys of some of the board members.
When one of the young women at the shelter dies after babysitting for one of the less than scrupulous board members and the lady who works as the honorary house mother disappears, Abi is drawn into the investigations. She calls in favors from Detective Inspector Ian Michaelson and her best friend Patrick Cooke, and fronts the ransom money when it is demanded.
Once again Ms. Mullet has woven an exciting mystery with rich characters and varied settings. She has masterfully plotted a mystery that will keep you guessing until the end. And it is a very satisfying ending, indeed. I did enjoy this book and I do recommend it!
June 11, 2019
I admit up front that I'm a fan of this series, which is technically a cozy but somehow is a bit more in depth than the usual. If you haven't read the previous books, don't worry because Mullet does a nice job of synopsis and you'll totally get who's who etc. This time out, Abi is coping not only with Grant's loss of smell as a result of injuries he suffered in the last installment- making it difficult at the whiskey business- but also the fact that his ex has come to town and is, to put it mildly, hovering. She's got a new purpose, though in the abused women's shelter which she's supporting. And then, regrettably, there's a murder at the shelter and Abi's off to the races, along with Patrick. Abi, who s sort of a fish out of water in her small Scottish town, always works with, not against, law enforcement, which I see as a plus. It's a good, just twisty enough read. Thanks to Netgalley for the ARC. Love the characters and am looking forward to the next one!
July 7, 2019
We're back in Scotland with Abigail Logan at Abbey Glen Distillery, but Grant is still recuperating from his injuries. What's worse, is that he's lost his sense of smell and taste--vital senses for a "nose." Brenna , his gorgeous ex, has moved in and is annoying everyone. Meanwhile, Abi arranges for her rescued flock of sheep to be sheared and the wool donated to Shepherds Rest, a shelter for abused women. As Abi learns more about this non-profit, she decides to join their board. Their landlord threatens the loss of their facilities and her vote is needed. When a young woman is murdered and another goes missing, presumed kidnapped, Abi becomes involved. A top-notch mystery with contemporary themes, sharp characters -- mostly likeable--and a surprising twist. Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
May 31, 2020
This is the first book I’ve read which is also the 4th in the Series. I listened to the audiobook.
I liked the story with the spotlight on a battered women’s home and those that care and don’t care about the residents including board members. It was a complex plot that kept me guessing.
This is the first time I’ve met the main characters. It was interesting figuring out the relationships. I think reading the first 3 books in the series will help with that. I did like them. The tertiary characters were also well developed.
The narrator for the audiobook did a great job. It took me a little while to adjust to the “Scottish” accent but it made sense for the book.
I liked the story with the spotlight on a battered women’s home and those that care and don’t care about the residents including board members. It was a complex plot that kept me guessing.
This is the first time I’ve met the main characters. It was interesting figuring out the relationships. I think reading the first 3 books in the series will help with that. I did like them. The tertiary characters were also well developed.
The narrator for the audiobook did a great job. It took me a little while to adjust to the “Scottish” accent but it made sense for the book.
May 12, 2025
Ich liebe alles daran. Es ist so dämlich, ich muss selbst überhaupt nicht nachdenken. Ständig wird Whisky getrunken - daher vor allem eine Katerleseempfehlung.
Außerdem geht es um Schafe, einen Bitchfight weil der Schotte mit den sandfarbenen Augen und gefährlich grünen Augen, dessen schottischer Akzent nur durchschlägt, wenn er erregt ist, zurück zur Ex ist - weil sie halt da war. Aber eigentlich liebt er die Protagonistin. Und sie ihn auch aber das wurde ihr erst klar, als sie Konkurrenz durch die andere bekam. Darauf erstmal einen Whisky.
Ach und dann gab es noch einen Mord und eine Entführung - völlig egal. Ich will jetzt Whisky trinken und Schafe streicheln. Wo Band 5?
Außerdem geht es um Schafe, einen Bitchfight weil der Schotte mit den sandfarbenen Augen und gefährlich grünen Augen, dessen schottischer Akzent nur durchschlägt, wenn er erregt ist, zurück zur Ex ist - weil sie halt da war. Aber eigentlich liebt er die Protagonistin. Und sie ihn auch aber das wurde ihr erst klar, als sie Konkurrenz durch die andere bekam. Darauf erstmal einen Whisky.
Ach und dann gab es noch einen Mord und eine Entführung - völlig egal. Ich will jetzt Whisky trinken und Schafe streicheln. Wo Band 5?
June 7, 2019
Died in the Wool - by Melinda Mullet is the 5th installment in the A Whisky Business Mystery series. This was the first time I had read one of Melinda's books and I thoroughly enjoyed it. This can be read as a stand-alone but I recommend reading the earlier books.
The protagonist Abigail is a strong independent woman but she seems to find trouble at every turn. I enjoyed the relationship between Amanda and Patrick and her blossoming romance with Grant.
The mystery was well written and carries through the entire story. There were a couple of twists and turns that I didn't see coming but I did guess the killer halfway through. The author brought all the characters to life for me and I really love a book that makes me feel like I can see everything in my minds eye.
I cannot wait to read the next book in this series, and I highly recommend this series to all my cozy mystery loving friends.
I requested and received an Advance Reader Copy of this book from Alibi and NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my OWN.
The protagonist Abigail is a strong independent woman but she seems to find trouble at every turn. I enjoyed the relationship between Amanda and Patrick and her blossoming romance with Grant.
The mystery was well written and carries through the entire story. There were a couple of twists and turns that I didn't see coming but I did guess the killer halfway through. The author brought all the characters to life for me and I really love a book that makes me feel like I can see everything in my minds eye.
I cannot wait to read the next book in this series, and I highly recommend this series to all my cozy mystery loving friends.
I requested and received an Advance Reader Copy of this book from Alibi and NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my OWN.
May 4, 2019
Melinda Mullet has another winner in her Whisky Business series. This time Abi finds herself as a newly appointed board member for a woman's shelter. Shortly after taking on her new role a woman at the shelter is found dead and another goes missing.. Abi, feeling that the police are dismissing the women at the shelter, launches her own investigation. We see more personal growth from Abi, Patrick and Grant in this novel. I can't wait for the next book in this series.
November 4, 2019
Maybe it is because this book was the 4th in a series that I didn't like this book more. I can see it had good bones -- strong characters and an interesting setting -- but I felt the story was forced. Maybe the writer should just turn the characters loose and get out of there way.
June 21, 2019
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy from the Great Escapes Book Tours. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review. Can Abi figure out what is going on at the women's shelter?
Died in Wool by Melinda Mullet is a thrilling book about whisky, raising sheep, and life in Scotland. Ms. Mullet has created a wonderful cast of characters in this series, and I enjoyed learning about them.
Abigail Logan
Our sleuth in this series is Abigail Logan, who was a crime journalist who would go off to other countries and take photos and write about what was happening over there. Now she is working at a whisky distillery that she half owns, works at a trust fund that she named after her uncle that left her everything and keeping sheep that are old and we're going to the slaughterhouse. Abi is a very stubborn girl who doesn't know when to keep her nose out of other people's business. She is trying to become a better person by learning more about the distillery and keeping herself busy. Of course, that doesn't always work as she gets wrapped up in another case.
Likes
loves her sheep
is trying to figure out her feelings for the other half owner of the distillery
great at solving crimes
Grant
He is the love interest and has been growing into one for the past three books. Grant is a lord, has a grand house, and loves working at the distillery. He is dealing with the after-effects of getting a concussion in the last book and how that has been affecting him now. It's not going very well for him, and he doesn't know what to do if he can't smell or taste anything as the blend master for the distillery. Abi, of course, suggests some other things for him to do and he is taking a liking to it. Grant is an attractive guy when he isn't moping around, waiting for his smell or taste to come back.
Mystery
Abi is brought on to help out on the board of a women's shelter so that she can help them keep their residence with where they are at. Except it doesn't work out all that well as one of the women at the shelter ends up dead, and another one gets kidnapped. The people running the shelter want Abi to do something but not involve authorities. Abi's biggest question is, are two very separate crimes with two very different reasons, or are they both committed by the same person? Only time will tell if Abi can solve it without endangering herself or anyone else again.
Four Stars
I am giving Died in Wool by Melinda Mullet a four-star rating as it was good and kept me entertained but there were some slow moments in the book. The mystery was good even though I kind of solved them ahead of the sleuth. Ms. Mullet did a great job laying out the clues, and that made me keep reading the book. I really wanted Abi to catch the culprit and kiss Grant.
Other Books in the Series
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Died in Wool by Melinda Mullet is a thrilling book about whisky, raising sheep, and life in Scotland. Ms. Mullet has created a wonderful cast of characters in this series, and I enjoyed learning about them.
Abigail Logan
Our sleuth in this series is Abigail Logan, who was a crime journalist who would go off to other countries and take photos and write about what was happening over there. Now she is working at a whisky distillery that she half owns, works at a trust fund that she named after her uncle that left her everything and keeping sheep that are old and we're going to the slaughterhouse. Abi is a very stubborn girl who doesn't know when to keep her nose out of other people's business. She is trying to become a better person by learning more about the distillery and keeping herself busy. Of course, that doesn't always work as she gets wrapped up in another case.
Likes
loves her sheep
is trying to figure out her feelings for the other half owner of the distillery
great at solving crimes
Grant
He is the love interest and has been growing into one for the past three books. Grant is a lord, has a grand house, and loves working at the distillery. He is dealing with the after-effects of getting a concussion in the last book and how that has been affecting him now. It's not going very well for him, and he doesn't know what to do if he can't smell or taste anything as the blend master for the distillery. Abi, of course, suggests some other things for him to do and he is taking a liking to it. Grant is an attractive guy when he isn't moping around, waiting for his smell or taste to come back.
Mystery
Abi is brought on to help out on the board of a women's shelter so that she can help them keep their residence with where they are at. Except it doesn't work out all that well as one of the women at the shelter ends up dead, and another one gets kidnapped. The people running the shelter want Abi to do something but not involve authorities. Abi's biggest question is, are two very separate crimes with two very different reasons, or are they both committed by the same person? Only time will tell if Abi can solve it without endangering herself or anyone else again.
Four Stars
I am giving Died in Wool by Melinda Mullet a four-star rating as it was good and kept me entertained but there were some slow moments in the book. The mystery was good even though I kind of solved them ahead of the sleuth. Ms. Mullet did a great job laying out the clues, and that made me keep reading the book. I really wanted Abi to catch the culprit and kiss Grant.
Other Books in the Series
June 17 –
ThisIsMyTruthNow
– REVIEW
June 17 –
Babs Book Bistro
– GUEST POST
June 18 –
The Power of Words
– REVIEW
June 18 –
Elizabeth McKenna – Author
– SPOTLIGHT
June 19 –
The Pulp and Mystery Shelf
– SPOTLIGHT
June 19 –
Ascroft, eh?
– AUTHOR INTERVIEW
June 20 –
The Cozy Pages
– GUEST POST
June 20 –
Socrates Book Reviews
– SPOTLIGHT
June 21 –
Baroness’ Book Trove
– REVIEW
June 22 –
Celticlady’s Reviews
– SPOTLIGHT
June 23 –
Cozy Up With Kathy
– REVIEW
June 23 –
Carla Loves To Read
– REVIEW
June 24 –
A Wytch’s Book Review Blog
– REVIEW
June 24 –
eBook Addicts
– SPOTLIGHT
June 25 –
Escape With Dollycas Into A Good Book
– REVIEW
June 25 –
A Blue Million Books
– AUTHOR INTERVIEW
June 26 –
My Reading Journeys
– SPOTLIGHT
June 26 –
Readeropolis
– CHARACTER INTERVIEW
June 27 –
Ruff Drafts
– GUEST POST
June 27 –
Books a Plenty Book Reviews
– REVIEW
June 28 –
StoreyBook Reviews
– SPOTLIGHT
June 29 –
Laura’s Interests
– SPOTLIGHT
June 30 –
I’m All About Books
– SPOTLIGHT
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This review was originally posted on Baroness' Book Trove
August 8, 2019
Consistently one of my favorite cozy mystery series and the audiobook is A+++
June 3, 2019
I loved it! Another mystery for Abi Logan and her friends. I swear I thought I had the mystery solved, only to find out that i was totally wrong in the end. Well written mystery, I did not want to put the book down and it kept my attention to the end of the story. Can't wait for the next installment.
This review is based on an ARC from NetGalley, courtesy of the publisher. All opinions are my own.
This review is based on an ARC from NetGalley, courtesy of the publisher. All opinions are my own.
May 24, 2019
Died in the Wool is the first book of I've read from Melinda Mullet's "Whisky Business" mystery series. Abigail "Abi" Logan is starting to get the hang of things at the Scottish whisky distillery she inherited from her uncle. Between whisky-ed at a university in Edinburgh, her new role on the board of a women's shelter, and her unsettled love life, there's a lot to enjoy. Abi also hosts an unofficial rest home for elderly sheep on her estate. Each sheep is named after a writer xD <333 A well-characterized cast of friends, coworkers, townsfolk, add to the mystery's charm and lived-in feel. The progression of events sends Abi back and forth between city and countryside, giving readers the best of both worlds.
Whodunnit? The death of a shelter resident is more than suspicious, especially after a relocation of the facility is treated as a foregone conclusion by the building's landlord and fellow board member. Abi investigates, despite repeated demands that she leave it to the police. She doesn't go it alone, however, as any good amateur sleuth worth her salt has an equally good crew beside her. Melinda Mullet spins a yarn in which separating the culprit from a flock of plausible suspects is a wonderful challenge. Are anyone's hands clean? Maybe. Maybe not.
Whodunnit? The death of a shelter resident is more than suspicious, especially after a relocation of the facility is treated as a foregone conclusion by the building's landlord and fellow board member. Abi investigates, despite repeated demands that she leave it to the police. She doesn't go it alone, however, as any good amateur sleuth worth her salt has an equally good crew beside her. Melinda Mullet spins a yarn in which separating the culprit from a flock of plausible suspects is a wonderful challenge. Are anyone's hands clean? Maybe. Maybe not.
May 17, 2019
3.75 stars
Another entertaining book in the Whisky Business series, set in Scotland at a distillery. Former photojournalist Abi Logan has inherited a distillery, and runs it with business partner Grant MacEwan. Things are a little tense right now, due to Grant's injuries (stemming from an earlier mystery) affecting his ability to blend and taste whisky. And his former girlfriend Brenna is on the scene. Since Abi and Grant have been dancing around a relationship, things are awkward all around.
Abi is plenty busy not only with whisky-making, but with classes and with her new charity board work for a local women's shelter. Her involvement at the shelter suddenly becomes almost full-time when one of its residents is discovered dead. The police think it's suicide, but Abi and crew are not so sure.
Things at the shelter and on its board of directors are challenging. The landlord wants to move the shelter to a much less desirable site, and one of the other board members is accused of sexually exploiting the shelter residents. Abi is not sure who to trust.
The plot is a little over-the-top at the end, but Abi is an appealing heroine, and the ensemble cast of distillery employees and locals is well-drawn. It's always nice to have read other series entries, but this would work as a standalone. Thanks to Net Galley and the publisher for providing me with an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Another entertaining book in the Whisky Business series, set in Scotland at a distillery. Former photojournalist Abi Logan has inherited a distillery, and runs it with business partner Grant MacEwan. Things are a little tense right now, due to Grant's injuries (stemming from an earlier mystery) affecting his ability to blend and taste whisky. And his former girlfriend Brenna is on the scene. Since Abi and Grant have been dancing around a relationship, things are awkward all around.
Abi is plenty busy not only with whisky-making, but with classes and with her new charity board work for a local women's shelter. Her involvement at the shelter suddenly becomes almost full-time when one of its residents is discovered dead. The police think it's suicide, but Abi and crew are not so sure.
Things at the shelter and on its board of directors are challenging. The landlord wants to move the shelter to a much less desirable site, and one of the other board members is accused of sexually exploiting the shelter residents. Abi is not sure who to trust.
The plot is a little over-the-top at the end, but Abi is an appealing heroine, and the ensemble cast of distillery employees and locals is well-drawn. It's always nice to have read other series entries, but this would work as a standalone. Thanks to Net Galley and the publisher for providing me with an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
June 18, 2019
Died In The Wool is the fourth book in the A Whisky Business Mystery series.
Grant McEwan, co-owner and master blender is still recovering from injuries received in the previous book. Abi learns from Louisa, cook, and housekeeper, that Grant’s sense of taste and smell has been severely affected and Grant has been in a foul mood and no real desire to leave his room. Also concerning Abi is the fact that Breena, Grants former fiance, has moved into Grant’s home and is acting as an unneeded nurse and is hoping to kindle their former romance.
Meanwhile, Abi’s handyman informs her that her rescued sheep desperately need to be sheared and soon. When Vicar Craig Anderson stops by he mentions that Amanda Forrester who owns Woolies, a yarn and knitting shop, would probably be happy to take the wool. He also mentions that Amanda runs a shelter for battered women and that the charity Abi has formed might want to help the shelter financially.
When Abi meets with Amanda is very impressed with the work she is doing and meets one of the ladies, Sharon, who is staying there. Abi soon learns that Urquhart who had arranged for the use of the house and is a member of the board of directors is trying to force them into a different house that unfortunately in a less than desirable area. One of the directors leaves the board and Abi is asked to take his position which she does. When one of the residents is found dead in her room the police feel that it is a case of suicide. Quite naturally Abi and Amanda feel just the opposite and begin to investigate. They first look to a couple of the directors, one of which thinks the ladies are the underpaid baby sitters of his children and who he has reportedly taken liberties with. Another possibility is Urquhart, wondering how far he will go to get the shelter to vacate the property.
This another wonderful addition to this very enjoyable series. The book is well written and plotted with a great cast of believable characters. The book had plenty of twists and turns and red herrings that kept me guessing until the end.
I definitely will be watching for the next book in this series.
Grant McEwan, co-owner and master blender is still recovering from injuries received in the previous book. Abi learns from Louisa, cook, and housekeeper, that Grant’s sense of taste and smell has been severely affected and Grant has been in a foul mood and no real desire to leave his room. Also concerning Abi is the fact that Breena, Grants former fiance, has moved into Grant’s home and is acting as an unneeded nurse and is hoping to kindle their former romance.
Meanwhile, Abi’s handyman informs her that her rescued sheep desperately need to be sheared and soon. When Vicar Craig Anderson stops by he mentions that Amanda Forrester who owns Woolies, a yarn and knitting shop, would probably be happy to take the wool. He also mentions that Amanda runs a shelter for battered women and that the charity Abi has formed might want to help the shelter financially.
When Abi meets with Amanda is very impressed with the work she is doing and meets one of the ladies, Sharon, who is staying there. Abi soon learns that Urquhart who had arranged for the use of the house and is a member of the board of directors is trying to force them into a different house that unfortunately in a less than desirable area. One of the directors leaves the board and Abi is asked to take his position which she does. When one of the residents is found dead in her room the police feel that it is a case of suicide. Quite naturally Abi and Amanda feel just the opposite and begin to investigate. They first look to a couple of the directors, one of which thinks the ladies are the underpaid baby sitters of his children and who he has reportedly taken liberties with. Another possibility is Urquhart, wondering how far he will go to get the shelter to vacate the property.
This another wonderful addition to this very enjoyable series. The book is well written and plotted with a great cast of believable characters. The book had plenty of twists and turns and red herrings that kept me guessing until the end.
I definitely will be watching for the next book in this series.
May 23, 2019
I enjoyed this book and have enjoyed the series. The character is well written and handles the problems that come her way in a reasonable fashion. Her relationships with the secondary characters are good and she is always willing to help others. This of course, puts her in the way of figuring out the murders that occur.
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for the eARC in exchange for an honest review. - I hope this series continues for a long time.
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for the eARC in exchange for an honest review. - I hope this series continues for a long time.
May 9, 2019
Abi Logan has a lot on her plate, running the Abbey Glen distillery with her partner Grant, running her charity in her Uncle’s name, and most recently supporting a women’s shelter. When she agrees to help the shelter by donating the wool from her sheep, she didn’t see herself become part of the board that oversees the shelter, but she agrees when asked and serves with her whole heart.
When one of the residents of the shelter is found dead and the cook disappears leaving her daughter behind, Abi steps up to help find out what is going on. While a few of the other board members don’t seem to genuinely care about the women, other flags go up and Abi wonders if they might have had a hand in the death and disappearance.
Back in Balfour Abi is coming up with ideas to help the distillery run the business while Grant’s sense of taste and smell come back to him as he recovers from his injuries. But Brenna, her partners ex girlfriend is also in town and trying to weasel her way back into Grant’s life, making it hard for Abi to declare her feelings for Grant and stake her own claim to his heart.
Before long, Abi, Grant and Abi’s BFF Patrick are all involved in trying to mystery and trying to get the abducted woman back before it’s too late. With Abi’s timing and luck, she may be too late after all. Too late for saving the woman, too late for declaring her feelings for Grant, and too late to save herself and her friends.
This is a fantastic series set in Scotland and I savor each book like a fine glass of Abbey Glen’s best. The characters are multi dimensional and come to life as you read. A great whodunit that will leave you wanting more!
When one of the residents of the shelter is found dead and the cook disappears leaving her daughter behind, Abi steps up to help find out what is going on. While a few of the other board members don’t seem to genuinely care about the women, other flags go up and Abi wonders if they might have had a hand in the death and disappearance.
Back in Balfour Abi is coming up with ideas to help the distillery run the business while Grant’s sense of taste and smell come back to him as he recovers from his injuries. But Brenna, her partners ex girlfriend is also in town and trying to weasel her way back into Grant’s life, making it hard for Abi to declare her feelings for Grant and stake her own claim to his heart.
Before long, Abi, Grant and Abi’s BFF Patrick are all involved in trying to mystery and trying to get the abducted woman back before it’s too late. With Abi’s timing and luck, she may be too late after all. Too late for saving the woman, too late for declaring her feelings for Grant, and too late to save herself and her friends.
This is a fantastic series set in Scotland and I savor each book like a fine glass of Abbey Glen’s best. The characters are multi dimensional and come to life as you read. A great whodunit that will leave you wanting more!
May 12, 2019
Died in the Wool by Melinda Mullet in the fourth installment in her Whiskey Business Mystery series. It takes place in a smaller village (although encompasses Surrounding larger cities in Scotland) and focusses on the main character of Abigail (Abi) Logan. It follows off from the last installment where Grant is still recovering from a previous injury and Abi now has the dilemma on her feelings on Grant as a friend vs more, which adds a nice romantic aspect to the multi-layer mystery. Abi is trying to juggle her duties with her trust, Abbey Glen and her elderly sheep sanctuary and distillery, and her new position as a board member for Sheppard’s Rest, a shelter for abused women and children.
I love all of the characters. I enjoyed Abi and the fact that I could relate to her (being close to my age of early 30s) in that she is imperfect and recognizes her faults, but is a good person despite it all. The supporting characters were like able and believable and the murder mystery was intriguing and was interlaced so that I was not able to figure out the culprit(s) until the end.
It was enjoyable and I look forward to a continuation of this series.
Thank you NetGalley for this ARC and in return this is my voluntary and unbiased review and opinion.
I love all of the characters. I enjoyed Abi and the fact that I could relate to her (being close to my age of early 30s) in that she is imperfect and recognizes her faults, but is a good person despite it all. The supporting characters were like able and believable and the murder mystery was intriguing and was interlaced so that I was not able to figure out the culprit(s) until the end.
It was enjoyable and I look forward to a continuation of this series.
Thank you NetGalley for this ARC and in return this is my voluntary and unbiased review and opinion.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 24, 2020
Finally finished this one. I don't know what it was, but it just didn't hold my interest. I'd read a chapter or 2, find myself bored and put it away for a bit. Decided last night to push through and finish it.
The whole abused women shelter thing just felt disintegrous to the series, entirely outside of the central theme to the books. From Abi getting involved with the shelter to the issues with the board to the central plot of a dead woman and a missing woman, it just felt like a plot from another series was dropped into this series. I don't know, just didn't wow me; the story plodded along until the big reveal came around and lead up to the exciting conclusion.
Mostly I just kept at it because of my attachment to the whole Abi-and-Grant storyline (and because I like the series as a whole) and it was nice to see they characters moving forward a bit. I'm looking at this book as a bridge, and true to bridge books in a series, it's always the weakest link bringing together the changes needed to start a new chapter in the series.
Overall, didn't hold my interest but did move the characters forward, so I'll give it 3 stars.
The whole abused women shelter thing just felt disintegrous to the series, entirely outside of the central theme to the books. From Abi getting involved with the shelter to the issues with the board to the central plot of a dead woman and a missing woman, it just felt like a plot from another series was dropped into this series. I don't know, just didn't wow me; the story plodded along until the big reveal came around and lead up to the exciting conclusion.
Mostly I just kept at it because of my attachment to the whole Abi-and-Grant storyline (and because I like the series as a whole) and it was nice to see they characters moving forward a bit. I'm looking at this book as a bridge, and true to bridge books in a series, it's always the weakest link bringing together the changes needed to start a new chapter in the series.
Overall, didn't hold my interest but did move the characters forward, so I'll give it 3 stars.
August 12, 2020
This series is just okay for me. I have kept reading them as they are mindlessly amusing, but feel that the author misses the chance to delve more deeply into the whiskey business and charming setting. That's the point of a cozy, IMO, to explore a unique setting. This episode, in particular, could have taken place anywhere. At least the author isn't going to drag on that will-they-or-won't-they romantic situation.
November 15, 2021
Määääh das war leider nix für mich 🤨 ich liebe das Setting auf dem Land in Schottland, die Whisky Destillerie, die Tiere, die schrägen Charaktere... all das ist viel zu kurz gekommen. Der Fall in der Stadt war nicht meins, für mein Empfinden auch nicht rund und der Schreibstil war plumper als in den anderen drei Bänden. Liegt vl auch an der Übersetzung. Aus Zuneigung zum Rest der Reihe und dem bisschen was davon in diesem Band übrig ist, 2,5🌟 aber ich bin leider echt enttäuscht!
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