A FINELY KNIT MURDER, the ninth book in the series, returns readers to the ocean-side town of Sea Harbor on Cape Ann. Knitting, food, and close friendships, and the Seaside Knitters, led by octogenarian Birdie Favazza, along with Nell, Cass and Izzy. They join her to become knitting detectives when a murder is committed and they "cast" about to help find the murderer.

The Sea Harbor Community Day School, an all girls school, has a new headmistress, Elizabeth Hartley. Elizabeth loves her job and the students, but she's being pressured by Blythe Westerland, an outspoken board member whose family once owned the mansion where the school is now housed. Blythe wants art teacher Josh Babson fired, and she forces Elizabeth to do it. Used to getting her own way, Blythe was never happy with the selection of Elizabeth as headmistress. Unhappy with the new progressive curriculum, including adding knitting to the enrichment program, Blythe is against the changes to "her" school and is determined to get rid of and replace Elizabeth.

At a party at the school, where everyone from town is invited, Blythe is murdered. Police Chief Jerry Thompson has his hands full questioning the residents who were present at the affair. At the top of the list of suspects is his romantic interest, Elizabeth.

So many people, so many motives. The list of suspects gets longer and longer as unknown facts about Blythes' past come to light. The locals are upset and afraid but stick together in the hopes of returning the town to its peaceful and relaxed locale as soon as the mystery is solved.

A very fast read with a colorful cast of characters, mouth watering descriptions of restaurants and good food, knitting tips, and a mystery that rocks this tightly knit seaside village. You will love this yarn and want to return for the sequel, which I hope is coming soon.