Nell Fitzgerald and Oliver White, her grandmother's "beau" are trying to surprise Eleanor by re-landscaping her flower garden. Their plan is stopped short when, while digging a hole for a rose bush, the gardener finds a skeleton, turning the yard into a crime scene.Because Eleanor has volunteered Nell to plan a quilt show to celebrate the 350th anniversary of Archers Rest, Nell tells police chief Jesse Dewalt (who just happens to be her significant other) that she'll be too busy to "help" with the case.But despite Nell's intentions, she's drawn into the investigation, first to discover the identity of the skeleton, and then to catch the person responsible for the incidents of vandalism that are occurring throughout the town. Unlike many amateur detectives, Nell is refreshingly realistic about her "nosiness", although she calls it "collecting information".The introduction of the skeleton allows both Nell and the reader to learn a great deal about the history of Archers Rest and its populace, including Eleanor Cassidy. And, as always, O'Donohue educates us about the development of the art of quilting.One small quibble: there are so many characters in the book that a cast list would be helpful. Apart from that, Nell and her friends are a delightful group to spend time with.*FTC Full Disclosure: Many thanks to the publisher, who sent me a copy of the book for review purposes. Actually, this is edging close to four stars, and seems to be getting a bit more realistic than the other quilting mysteries I've read. A skeleton is discovered in Eleanor's backyard, and her granddaughter Nell decides this is one case she won't investigate. But all the information that local police chief, and Nell's significant other, Jesse discovers seems to point to Eleanor. What's worse is that Eleanor is keeping secrets--even after they find the identity of the dead person, Eleanor won't tell Nell about what happened between them.
What do You think about The Devil's Puzzle (2011)?
I liked this one the most so far. Enjoyed the story and liked the way the characters have grown.
—Bennie
I like this book. It was probably one of my favorites in the series.
—sinazo
I enjoy these books, and I love all the quirky characters.
—leshauntinia
I like the quilt theme. Easy to read and fast paced.
—madhuridutta
