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Resale Boutique Mystery #3
How to Frame a Fashionista
Applying her Manhattan fashion sense to the sensibilities of a Long Island clientele, Kelly Quinn is setting new trends with second-hand name brand apparel—and finding killers with a deadly sense of style . . .
The fortunes of Kelly’s Lucky Cove Resale Boutique are sinking fast—literally, as the weathered roof of her grandmother’s old consignment shop springs a new leak with every rain. She hopes her latest client, overnight fitness and social media sensation Tawny Nicole, has enough valued and wanted items she can sell fast enough to keep her roof from crumbling down.
When Kelly arrives at Tawny’s home to appraise her attire, she’s stunned to find Serena Dawson, “the Dragonista of Seventh Avenue,” there. The last time she saw her ex-boss was when Serena humiliatingly and publicly fired her from her New York City job. Now Tawny is married to Serena’s ex-husband and is caught in the crossfire of some unfinished divorce settlements.
But when Kelly returns to Tawny’s the following day, she discovers her dead body—and Serena standing over it. Her former employer may be nasty and unrepentant, but she’s no killer—prompting Kelly to pick up the threads to try and find the real culprit . . .
The fortunes of Kelly’s Lucky Cove Resale Boutique are sinking fast—literally, as the weathered roof of her grandmother’s old consignment shop springs a new leak with every rain. She hopes her latest client, overnight fitness and social media sensation Tawny Nicole, has enough valued and wanted items she can sell fast enough to keep her roof from crumbling down.
When Kelly arrives at Tawny’s home to appraise her attire, she’s stunned to find Serena Dawson, “the Dragonista of Seventh Avenue,” there. The last time she saw her ex-boss was when Serena humiliatingly and publicly fired her from her New York City job. Now Tawny is married to Serena’s ex-husband and is caught in the crossfire of some unfinished divorce settlements.
But when Kelly returns to Tawny’s the following day, she discovers her dead body—and Serena standing over it. Her former employer may be nasty and unrepentant, but she’s no killer—prompting Kelly to pick up the threads to try and find the real culprit . . .
212 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 1, 2020
24 people are currently reading
711 people want to read
About the author
Debra Sennefelder
15 books627 followersDebra Sennefelder is an avid reader who reads across a range of genres, but mystery fiction is her obsession. Her interest in people and relationships is channeled into her novels against a backdrop of crime and mystery. When she’s not reading, she enjoys cooking and baking and as a former food blogger, she is constantly taking photographs of her food. Yeah, she’s that person.
Born and raised in New York City, she now lives and Connecticut with her family. She’s worked in pre-hospital care, retail and publishing. Her writing companion is her adorable and slightly spoiled Shih-Tzu, Connie.
She is a member of Sisters in Crime and Romance Writers of America.
She can be reached at Debra@DebraSennefelder.com
Born and raised in New York City, she now lives and Connecticut with her family. She’s worked in pre-hospital care, retail and publishing. Her writing companion is her adorable and slightly spoiled Shih-Tzu, Connie.
She is a member of Sisters in Crime and Romance Writers of America.
She can be reached at Debra@DebraSennefelder.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 59 reviews
May 30, 2021
How to Frame a Fashionista by Debra Sennefelder is a 2020 Kensington publication.
Kelly is discovering that business ownership can be one challenge after another. Although, her fashion boutique/consignment shop was doing okay, it looks like she’s going to need a new roof. The fun just never stops.
However, Kelly does have a new client, a popular wellness/fitness blogger, named Tawny, who is ready to unload some of her designer belongings. Kelly soon realizes that Tawny has a connection to her arch nemesis- Serena Dawson. When Tawny is murdered, Serena becomes the prime suspect. Despite their history, Serena has the nerve to ask for Kelly’s help in clearing her name…
Meanwhile, Kelly struggles to come up with the cash for a new roof, as she begins to have doubts about her lawyer boyfriend, Mark, all while continuing to dodge her uncle and his constant pressure on her to sell the shop.
This episode in the “Resale Boutique’ series is jam packed with revelations and developments. Kelly is certain, despite her experiences with Serena, that she didn’t murder Tawny.
This means that, although she knows she’s going to catch grief from Mark, and his sister, who is a member of law enforcement, and not a big fan of Kelly’s, she is still going to do whatever it takes to find out who the real murderer is.
Kelly’s character is a hoot! While she has some silly thoughts at times, there’s more depth there than appears on the surface. I think of her as a character still in development.
The story has a brisk pace, which kept me on my toes trying to guess who the killer was. The mystery is well-balanced with Kelly’s personal life and business woes. This is a fun, light, cozy mystery, and I’ve enjoyed all three of the full- length novels in the series- so I’ll definitely be back for more!
3.5 stars
Kelly is discovering that business ownership can be one challenge after another. Although, her fashion boutique/consignment shop was doing okay, it looks like she’s going to need a new roof. The fun just never stops.
However, Kelly does have a new client, a popular wellness/fitness blogger, named Tawny, who is ready to unload some of her designer belongings. Kelly soon realizes that Tawny has a connection to her arch nemesis- Serena Dawson. When Tawny is murdered, Serena becomes the prime suspect. Despite their history, Serena has the nerve to ask for Kelly’s help in clearing her name…
Meanwhile, Kelly struggles to come up with the cash for a new roof, as she begins to have doubts about her lawyer boyfriend, Mark, all while continuing to dodge her uncle and his constant pressure on her to sell the shop.
This episode in the “Resale Boutique’ series is jam packed with revelations and developments. Kelly is certain, despite her experiences with Serena, that she didn’t murder Tawny.
This means that, although she knows she’s going to catch grief from Mark, and his sister, who is a member of law enforcement, and not a big fan of Kelly’s, she is still going to do whatever it takes to find out who the real murderer is.
Kelly’s character is a hoot! While she has some silly thoughts at times, there’s more depth there than appears on the surface. I think of her as a character still in development.
The story has a brisk pace, which kept me on my toes trying to guess who the killer was. The mystery is well-balanced with Kelly’s personal life and business woes. This is a fun, light, cozy mystery, and I’ve enjoyed all three of the full- length novels in the series- so I’ll definitely be back for more!
3.5 stars
September 24, 2020
First of all, I enjoy a beach setting even in the wintertime. Secondly, I love a murder mystery that’s so complex I can’t figure out who the culprit is until the ending! Protagonist Kelly Quinn leads an interesting life as the owner of a resale boutique and a freelance fashion writer; not to mention the occasional times she dons her magnifying glass and steps into her Nancy Drew shoes.
In the third installment of the Resale Boutique mystery series, Kelly’s past rears its ugly head in the presence of her former boss, Serena Dawson, who’s in town to seemingly make trouble for her ex husband and his wife, Tawny, a fitness and diet guru. Serena finds trouble when she’s accused of murder!
The story is very interesting and selecting the killer from the suspect’s provided is very challenging. The author does a first rate job creating a seemingly simple plot then layering in a lot of subterfuge for readers to dig through to get to the bottom of the perpetrator’s agenda. It was cool how a resale item held the clue to the final showdown. Fortunately, Kelly has a great supporting cast of friends who assist her with her sleuthing research, and all ends well. I highly recommend this captivating cozy series.
I honestly reviewed a digital arc provided by NetGalley and Kensington Lyrical Publishing. All opinions are my own.
In the third installment of the Resale Boutique mystery series, Kelly’s past rears its ugly head in the presence of her former boss, Serena Dawson, who’s in town to seemingly make trouble for her ex husband and his wife, Tawny, a fitness and diet guru. Serena finds trouble when she’s accused of murder!
The story is very interesting and selecting the killer from the suspect’s provided is very challenging. The author does a first rate job creating a seemingly simple plot then layering in a lot of subterfuge for readers to dig through to get to the bottom of the perpetrator’s agenda. It was cool how a resale item held the clue to the final showdown. Fortunately, Kelly has a great supporting cast of friends who assist her with her sleuthing research, and all ends well. I highly recommend this captivating cozy series.
I honestly reviewed a digital arc provided by NetGalley and Kensington Lyrical Publishing. All opinions are my own.
October 6, 2020
If the person who you formerly worked for was an absolute self-absorbed, narcissistic witch who kicked you out of your dream job suddenly needed your help proving they were innocent of a crime, would you drop everything to help them out??? I'm not sure I would go out of my way, but the main character in this story definitely would. The author has done an excellent job of developing the main character's personality with an unwavering need to help others. This book really delves into that "need" in this book and unearths the connection to the past that has helped drive the character to help others and that is why it is so easy to connect to the characters in this series. The author has taken the time to really flesh out the characters and by doing so makes her plots that much more interesting than other books. I am far from a fashionista, but I love reading this series as I get a little fashion education, but mostly I get pure entertainment from the mystery that is woven into the plot. I can't wait to see what happens next in our budding resale boutique fashionista's future as this book left the field wide open for adventures to come!
Merged review:
If the person who you formerly worked for was an absolute self-absorbed, narcissistic witch who kicked you out of your dream job suddenly needed your help proving they were innocent of a crime, would you drop everything to help them out??? I'm not sure I would go out of my way, but the main character in this story definitely would. The author has done an excellent job of developing the main character's personality with an unwavering need to help others. This book really delves into that "need" in this book and unearths the connection to the past that has helped drive the character to help others and that is why it is so easy to connect to the characters in this series. The author has taken the time to really flesh out the characters and by doing so makes her plots that much more interesting than other books. I am far from a fashionista, but I love reading this series as I get a little fashion education, but mostly I get pure entertainment from the mystery that is woven into the plot. I can't wait to see what happens next in our budding resale boutique fashionista's future as this book left the field wide open for adventures to come!
Merged review:
If the person who you formerly worked for was an absolute self-absorbed, narcissistic witch who kicked you out of your dream job suddenly needed your help proving they were innocent of a crime, would you drop everything to help them out??? I'm not sure I would go out of my way, but the main character in this story definitely would. The author has done an excellent job of developing the main character's personality with an unwavering need to help others. This book really delves into that "need" in this book and unearths the connection to the past that has helped drive the character to help others and that is why it is so easy to connect to the characters in this series. The author has taken the time to really flesh out the characters and by doing so makes her plots that much more interesting than other books. I am far from a fashionista, but I love reading this series as I get a little fashion education, but mostly I get pure entertainment from the mystery that is woven into the plot. I can't wait to see what happens next in our budding resale boutique fashionista's future as this book left the field wide open for adventures to come!
January 3, 2021
A murder mystery, problematic past, family secret and trouble with her boyfriend make for a bad combination for Kelly Quinn. On top of that her business is in need of some serious cash to make repairs. But Kelly forges ahead and makes some surprising discoveries.
I liked that there were multiple aspects of the story that were concluded by the end yet a couple left dangling to entice me to read future stories in the Resale Boutique series. Thanks to Lyrical Underground and NetGalley for an ARC. The opinions expressed are my own.
I liked that there were multiple aspects of the story that were concluded by the end yet a couple left dangling to entice me to read future stories in the Resale Boutique series. Thanks to Lyrical Underground and NetGalley for an ARC. The opinions expressed are my own.
November 1, 2020
I won this e-book in a Goodreads drawing in exchange for an honest review. I am a typical armchair reader with no evaluation experience other than sharing my general impression of a book. That said...
I like to read series books in order because it establishes a background and appreciation for the book's characters and setting, so I'm at a bit of a loss starting with the third book in the series. It felt a bit scattered and perhaps that is because the main character, Kelly, is too.
After being fired unceremoniously from her previous job, she is turning an inheritance from her grandmother into a career and business she truly enjoys. The only problem is that she is so easily distracted in spite of her good intentions. Things like leaking roofs and murders just seem to pop up and the distraction of trying to prove her former boss's innocence almost make sense except for some really bad judgment on Kelly's part ... she seems to act before she thinks through a situation.
If you enjoy a light mystery/beach read, this is ideal. I realize ARCs are not quite finished, but this one had lots of typos, missing words and text written in a different color ... all were big distractions as the former secretary in me wanted to do some editing.
I like to read series books in order because it establishes a background and appreciation for the book's characters and setting, so I'm at a bit of a loss starting with the third book in the series. It felt a bit scattered and perhaps that is because the main character, Kelly, is too.
After being fired unceremoniously from her previous job, she is turning an inheritance from her grandmother into a career and business she truly enjoys. The only problem is that she is so easily distracted in spite of her good intentions. Things like leaking roofs and murders just seem to pop up and the distraction of trying to prove her former boss's innocence almost make sense except for some really bad judgment on Kelly's part ... she seems to act before she thinks through a situation.
If you enjoy a light mystery/beach read, this is ideal. I realize ARCs are not quite finished, but this one had lots of typos, missing words and text written in a different color ... all were big distractions as the former secretary in me wanted to do some editing.
February 7, 2021
This is my first book by Debra Sennefelder and the reason why I wanted to read this was because I was looking for a Cozy Mystery series that was a little bit more girly. There are not a lot of these out there, so I was very intrigued with the concept of Kelly and her Manhattan background. I thought it was an interesting concept of taking this city girl and bringing her to Long Island where she is now responsible for her grandmother’s consignment shop. Now consignment shop mysteries are not a new thing, but I think this series does offer something a little bit different because Kelly does have that highend preference to her. I really liked this aspect of her and the details that the author added made it even more fun.
HOW TO FRAME A FASHIONISTA is actually book three in the Resale Boutique series, so I think I will be going back to read the other books in the series since I enjoyed this one a lot. It has a good tone to it that’s light but also mysterious as you would come to expect from a mystery series. Overall, I’m really happy with finding this series. I think I’m going to enjoy read more of Debra’s books in the future.
February 28, 2022
Definitely my favorite so far! (I think I say that about each book in this series) I love this book & this series & this author. Kelly's old boss, yes the mean one, is in town and being framed for murder. I really enjoyed following along with Kelly as she hunts down another killer. Some family secrets are revealed.... what will happen next??
November 11, 2022
Dollycas’s Thoughts
Kelly Quinn is determined to make the shop she inherited from her grandmother, Lucky Cove Resale Boutique, a huge success but a leaky roof has her concerned. She hopes Tawny Nicole, fitness trainer and social media influencer has some great items to consign that will fly off the shelves and racks to keep the business afloat.
Her meeting with Tawny serves up quite a surprise for Kelly. Her former boss Serena Dawson, “the Dragonista of Seventh Avenue,” is there and having an argument. Kelly learns Serena is Tawny husband’s ex-wife. Kelly thought the woman who fired her very publicly from a job she loved was out of her life forever but it appears she will be in Lucky Cove until she and her ex come to terms with divorce details yet to be completed.
The next day when Kelly returns to do yoga with her new client she finds a very dead Tawny Nicole and the “dragonista” standing over her body. Granted she has no reason to help Serena but she knows she didn’t kill Tawny so she agrees to shop around a bit and try to close out the real killer.
I got behind with this series during my cancer treatments and as soon as I saw a new book, Sleuthing in Stilettos was coming out on December 6 I knew I had to rearrange my reading calendar.
Kelly is a fun protagonist. She stays positive even when the cards are stacked against her. Her uncle is doing everything he can to destroy her business and get her out of her building. Her roof is literally falling in and he went behind her back to keep her from getting a loan. Her boyfriend Mark is not being supportive either. I am thankful she does have some supportive friends around her because she has a lot on her plate especially after someone slips up and reveals a lifetime-old secret that could really change people’s lives. I really appreciated Kelly’s character development as this series continues and how it affects the other characters.
The mystery was so so well plotted with many moving parts. Kelly handled each clue thrown at her and eventually put them all together to make sense. I was with her each step of the way until the reveal. There were obvious suspects but their motivation to kill Tawny Nicole was unclear and when we learned what it was it was a surprise. The author placed some nice twists of misdirection that kept me pondering different theories.
I have enjoyed every book I have read by this author. How To Frame A Fashionista was an entertaining and intriguing read. A Perfect Escape! Ms. Sennefelder has penned a great story to keep the series going. She has included a subplot that will entice readers to escape right into Beauty and the Deceased, which I plan to do soon.
Kelly Quinn is determined to make the shop she inherited from her grandmother, Lucky Cove Resale Boutique, a huge success but a leaky roof has her concerned. She hopes Tawny Nicole, fitness trainer and social media influencer has some great items to consign that will fly off the shelves and racks to keep the business afloat.
Her meeting with Tawny serves up quite a surprise for Kelly. Her former boss Serena Dawson, “the Dragonista of Seventh Avenue,” is there and having an argument. Kelly learns Serena is Tawny husband’s ex-wife. Kelly thought the woman who fired her very publicly from a job she loved was out of her life forever but it appears she will be in Lucky Cove until she and her ex come to terms with divorce details yet to be completed.
The next day when Kelly returns to do yoga with her new client she finds a very dead Tawny Nicole and the “dragonista” standing over her body. Granted she has no reason to help Serena but she knows she didn’t kill Tawny so she agrees to shop around a bit and try to close out the real killer.
I got behind with this series during my cancer treatments and as soon as I saw a new book, Sleuthing in Stilettos was coming out on December 6 I knew I had to rearrange my reading calendar.
Kelly is a fun protagonist. She stays positive even when the cards are stacked against her. Her uncle is doing everything he can to destroy her business and get her out of her building. Her roof is literally falling in and he went behind her back to keep her from getting a loan. Her boyfriend Mark is not being supportive either. I am thankful she does have some supportive friends around her because she has a lot on her plate especially after someone slips up and reveals a lifetime-old secret that could really change people’s lives. I really appreciated Kelly’s character development as this series continues and how it affects the other characters.
The mystery was so so well plotted with many moving parts. Kelly handled each clue thrown at her and eventually put them all together to make sense. I was with her each step of the way until the reveal. There were obvious suspects but their motivation to kill Tawny Nicole was unclear and when we learned what it was it was a surprise. The author placed some nice twists of misdirection that kept me pondering different theories.
I have enjoyed every book I have read by this author. How To Frame A Fashionista was an entertaining and intriguing read. A Perfect Escape! Ms. Sennefelder has penned a great story to keep the series going. She has included a subplot that will entice readers to escape right into Beauty and the Deceased, which I plan to do soon.
October 6, 2020
This is the third installment in what I find to be an entertaining series. Kelly Quinn just can't catch a break. Her resale boutique is just barely in the black and she desperately needs a new roof. Things start to look up a bit when she signs a new consignment client but even then she can't catch a break. After returning to the new client's home to do yoga, Kelly finds her old boss standing over the dead body of her new client. Now, the boss that treated Kelly so badly desperately needs her help to clear her name. We've all had that boss where you think what it would be like to hold their future in your hands. This time, Kelly has that opportunity.
The mystery was well done and there are plenty of obvious suspects. But, as I've learned over my many years of reading cozy mysteries, the obvious suspect is not always the killer. I enjoyed the clues woven into the story and the challenge of trying to figure out committed the murder. I am happy to report I was partially correct in my guess for a change.
I love that the author threw in some unexpected twists dealing with Kelly and some of the secondary characters. This is the part of the story that I didn't see coming, but I think it opens up a number of future storylines to see how this plays out.
I voluntarily read a digital advanced reader copy provided to me by the publisher, Lyrical Press, through Netgalley. The thoughts and opinions expressed in the review are my own.
The mystery was well done and there are plenty of obvious suspects. But, as I've learned over my many years of reading cozy mysteries, the obvious suspect is not always the killer. I enjoyed the clues woven into the story and the challenge of trying to figure out committed the murder. I am happy to report I was partially correct in my guess for a change.
I love that the author threw in some unexpected twists dealing with Kelly and some of the secondary characters. This is the part of the story that I didn't see coming, but I think it opens up a number of future storylines to see how this plays out.
I voluntarily read a digital advanced reader copy provided to me by the publisher, Lyrical Press, through Netgalley. The thoughts and opinions expressed in the review are my own.
October 19, 2020
I won this book in a goodreads drawing.
A lady who runs a resale boutique and moonlights as an amateur sleuth in a small town is not happy to see the former mean boss who fired her. When the former boss is the suspect in the murder, the sleuth starts investigating and makes herself unpopular with the police, and also tries to get a new roof for her building.
Just about what you want from a cozy, only no recipes or other tips, really.
A lady who runs a resale boutique and moonlights as an amateur sleuth in a small town is not happy to see the former mean boss who fired her. When the former boss is the suspect in the murder, the sleuth starts investigating and makes herself unpopular with the police, and also tries to get a new roof for her building.
Just about what you want from a cozy, only no recipes or other tips, really.
November 30, 2020
I am officially done with these books - I have tried to continue on and have put up with the MC's shenanigans, but this book was just too much. Every time the MC said she had learned a lesson and was going to be better, you could be sure that the next couple pages would be proving those statements wrong. And don't get me wrong, I like nice stuff. I lived in several affluent NYC suburbs for 7 years and grew to love the finer things of life, but I have never, ever, seen someone as obsessed with that life and the clothes and shoes and purses as Kelly is. It is almost grotesque how much she covets what she cannot have [to the point of being willing to think about doing things hinkly to be able to get what she wants - no, she ends up NOT doing it, but its the idea that she even thinks about it. It is just wrong and obsessive and really, gross] and to be mad that she has to be RESPONSIBLE and put a roof on the business that is also her H O M E instead of getting that Fendi bag she obsesses over the whole book. That is not grown up behavior, it is not business owner behavior and it certainly isn't the behavior of someone who is trying to reform.
Add in all the really stupid things she does throughout the course of the murder and investigation and you are just left wanting to smack her. Add in the new secrets she has learned about her family [and that is really unnecessary], her stupid boyfriend and her inability to truly learn, and you have a hot mess of a book. I didn't enjoy this one at all. There was just so much of it that was totally unbelievable that it wasn't enjoyable and by the time the reveal happened, I had figured much of it out. So disappointing.
Thank you to NetGalley and Kensington Books for providing this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Add in all the really stupid things she does throughout the course of the murder and investigation and you are just left wanting to smack her. Add in the new secrets she has learned about her family [and that is really unnecessary], her stupid boyfriend and her inability to truly learn, and you have a hot mess of a book. I didn't enjoy this one at all. There was just so much of it that was totally unbelievable that it wasn't enjoyable and by the time the reveal happened, I had figured much of it out. So disappointing.
Thank you to NetGalley and Kensington Books for providing this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
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February 12, 2021
This is my first book by Debra Sennefelder and the reason why I wanted to read this was because I was looking for a Cozy Mystery series that was a little bit more girly. There are not a lot of these out there, so I was very intrigued with the concept of Kelly and her Manhattan background. I thought it was an interesting concept of taking this city girl and bringing her to Long Island where she is now responsible for her grandmother’s consignment shop. Now consignment shop mysteries are not a new thing, but I think this series does offer something a little bit different because Kelly does have that highend preference to her. I really liked this aspect of her and the details that the author added made it even more fun.
HOW TO FRAME A FASHIONISTA is actually book three in the Resale Boutique series, so I think I will be going back to read the other books in the series since I enjoyed this one a lot. It has a good tone to it that’s light but also mysterious as you would come to expect from a mystery series. Overall, I’m really happy with finding this series. I think I’m going to enjoy read more of Debra’s books in the future.
Reviewed by Ann❤ ♡ Don't want to miss any of our posts? Subscribe to our blog by email! ♡ ❤
December 16, 2020
A fun and interesting book! Kelly gets a consignment of designer clothes from resident fitness guru, Tawny Fallow. When she arrives, she discovers her former boss at Tawny’s house. The next day, Kelly arrives at Tawny’s to do some yoga and finds her former boss, Serena, standing over Tawny’s dead body. Serena is the obvious suspect and actually asks Kelly for her help in clearing her name. Kelly is reluctant to help, but after years of being flighty and running away from things, she ends up helping. Kelly is also having issues with money as her business is still struggling and the roof needs to be replaced. Her boyfriend, Mark, seems to be less than supportive of her as well. I really enjoyed seeing Kelly trying hard to change how she handles things and seeing her grow up and become more responsible. I look forward to reading more of this series and seeing where things go with her boutique and her relationships with her friends and family.
November 19, 2020
Debra Sennefelder has another perfect ensemble with How to Frame a Fashionista, book three in the Resale Boutique Mysteries. There is so much going on in this book, we finally get to meet the Dragonista who fired Kelly from her job in Manhattan, Kelly is continuing with her self-growth, we find out more about Ariel’s accident, and Sennefelder drops another huge bomb when it comes to Ariel, Kelly’s friend from high school. And, of course, Kelly solves a mystery with a lot of help from her friends.
The Who Dunnit was a bit easy for me to solve, but I didn’t know the entire motive right away. But, as always, there’s much more to cozies than just solving the mystery. And Sennefelder does an excellent job with the character development, outfit details, and as mentioned before, there is a whopper of a twist in How to Frame a Fashionista.
Another great book in the Resale Boutique Mysteries, and while it can be read as a stand alone, it’s always more fun to start at the beginning, and in this series the first book is Murder Wears a Little Black Dress.
The Who Dunnit was a bit easy for me to solve, but I didn’t know the entire motive right away. But, as always, there’s much more to cozies than just solving the mystery. And Sennefelder does an excellent job with the character development, outfit details, and as mentioned before, there is a whopper of a twist in How to Frame a Fashionista.
Another great book in the Resale Boutique Mysteries, and while it can be read as a stand alone, it’s always more fun to start at the beginning, and in this series the first book is Murder Wears a Little Black Dress.
February 12, 2021
Would you help a boss who fired you? Kelly Quinn, owner of Lucky Cove Resale Boutique, is faced with that question when Serena Dawson, the boss that fired her months earlier is accused of murder.
I love cozy mysteries that deal with fashion and this book was a perfect read. Kelly is a likable character who is smart, kind and complicated. I enjoyed the mystery and wasn't sure "whodunit" until the very end. I look forward to reading the next Kelly,Quinn mystery!
I received an ARC from NetGalley and the opinions expressed in this review are my own.
I love cozy mysteries that deal with fashion and this book was a perfect read. Kelly is a likable character who is smart, kind and complicated. I enjoyed the mystery and wasn't sure "whodunit" until the very end. I look forward to reading the next Kelly,Quinn mystery!
I received an ARC from NetGalley and the opinions expressed in this review are my own.
November 17, 2020
Serena might be a hateful horrible person who more or less tanked Kelly's career in New York but Kelly doesn't think she's a murderer. Kelly rebuilt everything that Serena more or less lost for her by rebuilding her grsndmother's consignment shop on Long Island. Except that she needs a new roof. She's thrilled, therefore, to get a chance at Tawny's closet but when she gets to Tawny's house, she finds Serena there (yikes) standing over Tawny's body (double yikes!). Those two have a complicated back story but there was more to both of them than met the eye. Tawny was no angel and well, Serena does have a heart. Kelly, our intrepid cozy heroine, gets to the root of the stories and solves the murder. That's simplistic but know that the story is laced with fun and funny characters. I found Kelly a little obnoxious in the first book but she's grown on me (you will be fine with this as a standalone). Thanks to Netgalley for the ARC. For cozy fans.
October 14, 2021
This is a wonderful book! I highly recommend this and all of Debra Sennefelder's books. Such fun reads!
December 6, 2020
Kelly has worked hard to reach this point in her life. She went to college to study fashion and landed a dream job at a department store in New York. All was going well until her shrew of a boss fired her without batting an eye, not a hope of talking it through to figure out what went wrong. At the same time her grandmother passed away and left Kelly her house/business - a resale clothing store plus misc.items for sale. Kelly dives in and works to rebrand the store to become trendy and make more money. Let's be honest, having an eye for high end fashion like a Fendi bag (it's more than most pay for a months rent) nets a bigger commission than a whole rack of mid priced clothing from the shopping channel. Her fashion blog and other freelance writing help but her bread and butter rests with the talent she has at finding the big ticket items. These days she needs the money to stay even marginally in the black and to repair her leaking roof. When she meets her new client, Tawny and sees her vast array of OMG items she wants to consign.....well Kelly can see the roof fixed and a few bucks in the bank, too.
Not so fast - this chance at income comes with a huge catch in the form of her ex-boss, The Dragonista who fired her and changed the course of her life. Turns out she was the first wife of Tawny's husband (it's complicated) and the sparks are flying with those three. When Kelly next sees The Dragonista and Tawny, Tawny is dead and the #1 suspect is The Dragonista. Honestly, I would have walked away and let the police, lawyers and the court to sort it out but Kelly isn't wired that way and she agrees to help track down the killer.
The mystery was solid and kept me guessing. We also learn more about Kelly's family and her very unlikable uncle. Other revelations are made in Kelly's various relationships and the ending left me eager to read the next book.
My thanks to the publisher Kensington and to NetGalley for giving me an advance copy in exchange for my honest review.
Not so fast - this chance at income comes with a huge catch in the form of her ex-boss, The Dragonista who fired her and changed the course of her life. Turns out she was the first wife of Tawny's husband (it's complicated) and the sparks are flying with those three. When Kelly next sees The Dragonista and Tawny, Tawny is dead and the #1 suspect is The Dragonista. Honestly, I would have walked away and let the police, lawyers and the court to sort it out but Kelly isn't wired that way and she agrees to help track down the killer.
The mystery was solid and kept me guessing. We also learn more about Kelly's family and her very unlikable uncle. Other revelations are made in Kelly's various relationships and the ending left me eager to read the next book.
My thanks to the publisher Kensington and to NetGalley for giving me an advance copy in exchange for my honest review.
November 17, 2020
This is the 3rd in the Resale Boutique series. Kelly Quinn is back in her hometown and trying to make a go with consignment shopping. She inherited the business from her Grandmother and is working to update it to current trends and styles. She is settling in and excited to get a call from an online fitness expert Tawny who lives in her town of Lucky Cove but is shocked when she arrives to evaluate and pick up the cloths that she finds her old boss Serena Dawson who months earlier fired her in front of the entire office. Kelly stands up for herself and learns that Serena is the ex-wife of Tawny’s husband and was shocked to find them fighting when she arrived. Tawny explains it is about property that her husband and Serena co-own. When Kelly arrives the next day it is to find Serena over the dead body of Tawny. Thus begins Kelly getting involved in one more murder investigation which causes strain in her relationship with Mark who is the brother of the lead detective. Things go down-hill from there with her and Mark and perhaps there is promise a new direction in future books. Kelly is struggling to keep her business going as the roof has been leaking and a new one is needed and she doesn’t have the cash. Serena still thinks Kelly is working for her ordering her about but she stands up for herself and helps in the investigation because she believes Serena is innocent. Had a certain Devil Wears Prada feel to it as Serena was referred to as the Dragonista. It was also good to learn more about her strained relationship with her Uncle (that was one heck of a surprise). Overall solid mystery with clear clues to culprit but still very enjoyable and a fast read. I really enjoy this series. Recommend.
August 29, 2021
In book 3 of the Resale Boutique series, Kelly Quinn encounters her old boss, Serena Dawson (a.k.a. the Dragonista of 7th avenue). This nemesis character and her background – to include having twins – was far too derivative of that popular book that was made into a hit movie. This is disheartening.
Kelly Quinn revealed her materialistic side at full tilt in this story except for her faulty rationalization for getting involved in another police investigation. First, it makes no good sense for Serena to demand Kelly’s help when with her obvious wealth she could hire a private investigator and a lawyer to protect her interests. Second, it is hard to believe that Serena’s faux distress over the welfare of her children made Kelly immediately willing to drop her critical priorities to take up Serena’s cause – asking for nothing in return.
Although Kelly is young and an inexperienced retail merchant, she can be responsible, innovative, and competent; however, she continues to get easily distracted and even dangerously obsessive about things that could jeopardize her struggling business. She does not take the reasonable warnings of those around her, thus revealing her immaturity and short-sightedness. Kelly always means well, and it is endearing when she makes a silent prayer to get her through the next moment, but she is at the point in life when good intentions are not enough. Additionally, Kelly does not see her own glaring duplicity when it comes to her personal relationships, nor does she realize when she is being manipulated by Serena Dawson. Kelly has a lot more personal development to do.
When author Debra Sennefelder tells her original tale, it is refreshing and entertaining, but since she saddled her story too tightly with that well-known book, I am compelled to mark this book down a notch.
For this eBook, I became a bit confused with a few sentences within the third act. I am wondering if these lines were completely thought out or proofread. Also, there are a few typos of common words that need correction ("chink" vs. "cheek" / "buy" vs. "by"). After reading her previous work, I doubt the author made these spelling errors; nevertheless, this problem should not occur in a published book.
Kelly Quinn revealed her materialistic side at full tilt in this story except for her faulty rationalization for getting involved in another police investigation. First, it makes no good sense for Serena to demand Kelly’s help when with her obvious wealth she could hire a private investigator and a lawyer to protect her interests. Second, it is hard to believe that Serena’s faux distress over the welfare of her children made Kelly immediately willing to drop her critical priorities to take up Serena’s cause – asking for nothing in return.
Although Kelly is young and an inexperienced retail merchant, she can be responsible, innovative, and competent; however, she continues to get easily distracted and even dangerously obsessive about things that could jeopardize her struggling business. She does not take the reasonable warnings of those around her, thus revealing her immaturity and short-sightedness. Kelly always means well, and it is endearing when she makes a silent prayer to get her through the next moment, but she is at the point in life when good intentions are not enough. Additionally, Kelly does not see her own glaring duplicity when it comes to her personal relationships, nor does she realize when she is being manipulated by Serena Dawson. Kelly has a lot more personal development to do.
When author Debra Sennefelder tells her original tale, it is refreshing and entertaining, but since she saddled her story too tightly with that well-known book, I am compelled to mark this book down a notch.
For this eBook, I became a bit confused with a few sentences within the third act. I am wondering if these lines were completely thought out or proofread. Also, there are a few typos of common words that need correction ("chink" vs. "cheek" / "buy" vs. "by"). After reading her previous work, I doubt the author made these spelling errors; nevertheless, this problem should not occur in a published book.
December 13, 2020
A lighthearted mystery as told by a resale boutique owner who simply cannot stay away from murders (a common affliction of this genre). This is the third in a series, and it technically does stand alone, but I get the sense that I probably would have had more background and be generally more invested in the characters if I had read the previous two. That said, there are a few casual mentions of what I assume are previous book events which are fully nuts and honestly the experience of reading sentences like "haha this is like the time a psychic held an impromptu seance in my shop" out of nowhere was very funny. Amateur sleuths are simply doomed to have very silly lives I suppose. The mystery storyline was solid with plenty of possible suspects and a bunch of red herrings thrown in - a few of them weren't really addressed again but I guess they couldn't all be? The characters were solid, though Serena's switching between ice queen and human wasn't very nuanced and I ended up not liking Kelly much, lmao. I did like her references to fashion and trends, though, I thought that was well done. Anyway, this is a glimpse into a very particular world on an island of well to do white people where small indie businesses thrive and the absolute most degrading thing our heroine has ever in her life been subjected to is being handcuffed by the police, which does tell you a bit, maybe? It was fine, but I won't be looking for more in this series.
February 13, 2021
Princess Fuzzypants here: Kelly is doing a good job turning around the consignment shop her grandmother left her in spite of her uncles’ dastardly attempts to thwart her. But with a leaky roof and assorted other issues, the last thing she needs is the dragon who fired her in a humiliating manner to invade her peaceful world. She is connected to the fitness guru who is consigning some of her wardrobe to Kelly. When the guru is murdered and she finds her ex-boss hovering over the body, both Kelly and the cops think she makes a good suspect.
But her ex-boss, Serena, is nothing if not bold. Not only does she try to intimidate the police but she has the chutzpah to demand Kelly clear her name and find the killer. Why Kelly would do such a silly thing, considering their history, at the potential cost to her business and her personal life stretches my credulity. One almost thinks Kelly has a masochistic streak but she agrees to help. When the guru’s husband, and Serena’s ex, is murdered as well, it looks like Serena will be accessorizing prison duds.
Kelly does manage to figure out whodunit. I confess I suspected the villain almost immediately but not for all the reasons that were revealed ultimately. She also discovered why her uncle is so determined to undermine her but there are several other aspects to her life that look like they could swerve into difficult and dicey territory... particularly as Kelly has a habit of impulsive behaviour.
Four purrs and two paws up.
But her ex-boss, Serena, is nothing if not bold. Not only does she try to intimidate the police but she has the chutzpah to demand Kelly clear her name and find the killer. Why Kelly would do such a silly thing, considering their history, at the potential cost to her business and her personal life stretches my credulity. One almost thinks Kelly has a masochistic streak but she agrees to help. When the guru’s husband, and Serena’s ex, is murdered as well, it looks like Serena will be accessorizing prison duds.
Kelly does manage to figure out whodunit. I confess I suspected the villain almost immediately but not for all the reasons that were revealed ultimately. She also discovered why her uncle is so determined to undermine her but there are several other aspects to her life that look like they could swerve into difficult and dicey territory... particularly as Kelly has a habit of impulsive behaviour.
Four purrs and two paws up.
December 12, 2021
Wow this was a really good one! I never thought Kelly would have to lay eyes on the awful woman who'd caused her so much grief in the city, but here she was asking Kelly to prove she wasn't a killer. (Ha, maybe a career killer, Kel, right?) I know it would've taken every ounce of my self-control to deal with this woman, so I probably wouldn't have wanted to help her. Good thing I'm not playing the role of Kelly, right? ;)
Kelly had a lot of revelations in this book that I hope helped her grow as a person. Some of them weren't too easy to take, and one was a huge secret. But hopefully things'll work out for her in all aspects. At least she's got a new roof.
There was a pretty exciting showdown, and I was pretty proud of Kelly for her quick thinking. Kelly can be like a dog with a bone when it comes to murer, but that's just part of her charm. She's got a huge heart and willingness to help those she cares about, so she'd definitely make a faithful friend to have. Now I'm caught up and ready to read the next book coming out!
Kelly had a lot of revelations in this book that I hope helped her grow as a person. Some of them weren't too easy to take, and one was a huge secret. But hopefully things'll work out for her in all aspects. At least she's got a new roof.
There was a pretty exciting showdown, and I was pretty proud of Kelly for her quick thinking. Kelly can be like a dog with a bone when it comes to murer, but that's just part of her charm. She's got a huge heart and willingness to help those she cares about, so she'd definitely make a faithful friend to have. Now I'm caught up and ready to read the next book coming out!
Read
November 11, 2020In the third book of the series Resale Boutique How to Frame a Fashionista was a wonderful read. Kelly’s Lucky Cove Resale Boutique is doing well except for the roof that is need of desperate repair. Kelly is hoping to get items that will sell fast from Tawny Nicole, the newest sensational fitness guru.
Unfortunately Kelly runs into her old boos, Serena Dawson, over Tawny's dead body. Did Serena kill Tawny over her ex husband, Jason that married Tawny? Will Kelly help Serena prove that she is innocent? You will have to red the story to find out.
Debra Sennefelder did a wonderful job creating the characters with unexpected twists and turns within the story.
I won a kindle copy from Goodreads! The thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own.
Unfortunately Kelly runs into her old boos, Serena Dawson, over Tawny's dead body. Did Serena kill Tawny over her ex husband, Jason that married Tawny? Will Kelly help Serena prove that she is innocent? You will have to red the story to find out.
Debra Sennefelder did a wonderful job creating the characters with unexpected twists and turns within the story.
I won a kindle copy from Goodreads! The thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own.
December 3, 2020
Upscale Resale Cozy Murder Mystery
This is such a fun series! I am far from a clothes-horse or fashion fanatic, but this is fun! Besides excessive fashion information, the reader learns about Fendi, Louboutin, and cute little red booties. The mystery plot is very good. The final resolution comes as quite a surprise. I felt like I was solving it along with our heroine. I have read the entire series and have really enjoyed each book. I think the reader could read them in any order and enjoy them as well as if they read them in order. I received this ARC book for free from Net Galley and this is my honest review.
This is such a fun series! I am far from a clothes-horse or fashion fanatic, but this is fun! Besides excessive fashion information, the reader learns about Fendi, Louboutin, and cute little red booties. The mystery plot is very good. The final resolution comes as quite a surprise. I felt like I was solving it along with our heroine. I have read the entire series and have really enjoyed each book. I think the reader could read them in any order and enjoy them as well as if they read them in order. I received this ARC book for free from Net Galley and this is my honest review.
November 17, 2022
Kelly is continuing to try grow her struggling resale boutique when she stumbles over the dead body of a new client. To make things even more complicated, the person she finds standing over the body is her former boss, who fired her from her dream job. Serena might be a hateful witch and the worst boss ever, but Kelly doesn’t think she’s a murderer. As awful as Serena is, Kelly still agrees to help prove her innocence. (Not sure I would have!)
This is a pretty typical cozy where the amateur sleuth inserts themself into a murder investigation even when warned by the police to not interfere. The storyline was good and was interesting.
This is a pretty typical cozy where the amateur sleuth inserts themself into a murder investigation even when warned by the police to not interfere. The storyline was good and was interesting.
November 20, 2020
Page filler
No character development, I thought I’d never use that term. Pages upon pages filled with useless information. Was it a mystery? A family drama? Could a main character be anymore boring and weak? Kelly had one moment of guts, standing up to the bank loan guy, and I thought: Okay here we go, then nothing. She continues to help her old boss, which made no sense. I skipped from chapter 17, which took me forever to get to, to the last chapter because I couldn’t take it anymore. What a waste, free or not. Over a week of my reading time gone.
No character development, I thought I’d never use that term. Pages upon pages filled with useless information. Was it a mystery? A family drama? Could a main character be anymore boring and weak? Kelly had one moment of guts, standing up to the bank loan guy, and I thought: Okay here we go, then nothing. She continues to help her old boss, which made no sense. I skipped from chapter 17, which took me forever to get to, to the last chapter because I couldn’t take it anymore. What a waste, free or not. Over a week of my reading time gone.
September 23, 2020
It’s a total love/hate relationship with this series. On moment I’m completely sucked into the story, the next I want to throw my book across the room because the protagonist drives me crazy. She has a tendency to do irresponsible things and stick her nose in where it doesn’t belong just a little too much and a little to far. Other than that, this was a good mystery and yay me for figuring out the murderer and mostly the why.
November 1, 2020
The best in a strong series! How to Frame a Fashionista has Quinn hitting the jackpot when a social media influencer offers to place a large portion of her awesome closet, including a prime designer purse, in Quinn's resale boutique. Naturally nothing can be easy for our young entrepreneur! She soon discovers a body with her New York nemesis, the boss who fired her from her dream job, standing over it! Author Debra Sennefelder balances Quinn's concerns for the shop with her need to resolve the murder and makes both parts of her life compelling reading. Quinn and her friends are sure the win the hearts of readers. This third book in the Resale Boutique series is the biggest winner so far.
I requested an ARC for How to Frame a Fashionista because I have found the series to be delightful. It is my favorite book of the series and my friends and followers will be hearing about it because I loved it.
I requested an ARC for How to Frame a Fashionista because I have found the series to be delightful. It is my favorite book of the series and my friends and followers will be hearing about it because I loved it.
December 10, 2020
This is a nice little murder mystery that made a pleasant afternoon's read. Not a complicated plot or much suspense but it had some interesting characters, a nice light touch and a good flow to the story. Plus there was the end of one romantic relationship and the slight hint that another may be coming.
I won a copy of this book in a Goodreads giveaway for this honest review.
I won a copy of this book in a Goodreads giveaway for this honest review.
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