If you are looking for an hour or two of whodunit sizzle, Off The Beadin’ Path might be the book for you. Lifetime besties, Jax and Tessa are wonderful counterparts for each other. They know one another so well, the reader feels like a part of the relationship. This story will resonate with crafters. On one hand they will wish the classes they take could only offer so much excitement, while on the other hand they will be totally grateful that all they get out of a class is a new crafting skill. This book is full of colorful well written characters. It is easy to see why this series is so popular with readers.

This is the first book in the series that I have read, though I have also read the Valentine mini-mystery, “Be Still My Beading Heart.” I have to admit the back and forth between possible boyfriends gets a little old for my taste, (it is possible that knowing more back story would make me a little more sympathetic) and the book could have been a little longer, as I finished it in less than 90 minutes. Still the little secrets and innuendos among friends and classmates makes this story fun to read and I really didn’t catch on to the killer until the end. Getting me to chase a red herring or three is always a plus for me. Jax and her friends are people I would choose to spend time with again. ( )