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Spring Harbor #2
A Short Cut to Murder
In a town of tides and tresses, murder never impresses.In the picturesque town of Spring Harbor, where the scent of blooming flowers mingles with salty ocean air, hairstylist Summer Snow knows that beneath the surface of this idyllic community lies a tangle of secrets.
When a seemingly random stranger meets a tragic end in what authorities quickly label a mere "car accident," Summer's intuition—sharper than her best pair of scissors—senses a darker truth.
A cryptic text message from one of her regular clients days before the fatal incident becomes the elusive thread that Summer believes could unravel the mystery. With the town buzzing with whispers of tragic misfortune, she dives into a covert investigation, snipping through lies and weaving her way through a labyrinth of deceit.
As Summer navigates the twists and turns of this perilous pursuit, she must tread carefully. Will her determination reveal a hidden killer lurking amidst the town's shadows, or will her relentless quest for justice make her the next victim?
When a seemingly random stranger meets a tragic end in what authorities quickly label a mere "car accident," Summer's intuition—sharper than her best pair of scissors—senses a darker truth.
A cryptic text message from one of her regular clients days before the fatal incident becomes the elusive thread that Summer believes could unravel the mystery. With the town buzzing with whispers of tragic misfortune, she dives into a covert investigation, snipping through lies and weaving her way through a labyrinth of deceit.
As Summer navigates the twists and turns of this perilous pursuit, she must tread carefully. Will her determination reveal a hidden killer lurking amidst the town's shadows, or will her relentless quest for justice make her the next victim?
- GenresCozy Mystery
188 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 17, 2024
57 people are currently reading
15 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
February 17, 2024
I really enjoyed this story. Summer Snow is working at the salon she has agreed to take over from Mrs Beesley, when a lady with extremely long hair decides to get a very short pixie cut, this piques her interest ,then when she passes the client’s phone back to her she notices a very cryptic message…The idyllic town of Spring Harbor has many secrets to unearth , so Summer goes on a covert investigation to delve into a mysterious accident , because she believes it wasn’t so. Although knowing she should be trying to keep a low profile, hiding from her ex boss and the fame brought about by the magnificent hair creation on Aunt Clara , but she’s got a nose for intrigue and mystery so she follows the trail, no matter how hard the sheriff dissuades her. Brilliant ! A cut above the best of the rest ( couldn’t resist) , the easy flowing style of writing , the characters , the plotting ,the sublime dialogue all added to the perfect balance of the descriptions that drew the attention and engaged me into the story from beginning to end. A compelling read indeed. I was forwarded a copy of this book and my review is being left voluntarily in my own musings .
February 19, 2024
Summer Has More Than One Conundrum To Worry About!
"A Short Cut to Murder" is Book 2 of the Spring Harbor Cozy Mystery series, written by Amber Crewes. This series focuses on Summer Snow, and her love for hair styling and her new beagle puppy, Barney. This episode is about a murdered woman, trying to keep hold of her soon-to-be ownership of the town's beauty salon, and the worry about a lost poster concerning her newly found puppy she's had for two months. The characters are outlined beautifully, and I can actually see Summer, Evan, Alex, Barney, Mrs. Beesley, and many of the other characters, such as Aunt Clara and Carl, in my mind's eye. I can even see Summer's friend Vanessa, even though she's in online chats only. The only confusion I had was between Francesca and Patricia, and which one was the murder victim/inventor, and which one was the woman who got her hair cut at the beginning of the book. I liked the way the book developed throughout and the way the story ended. I gave this book 5 stars and recommend it to anyone who likes a good mystery. I received an advanced reader's copy and this is my voluntary and honest review.
"A Short Cut to Murder" is Book 2 of the Spring Harbor Cozy Mystery series, written by Amber Crewes. This series focuses on Summer Snow, and her love for hair styling and her new beagle puppy, Barney. This episode is about a murdered woman, trying to keep hold of her soon-to-be ownership of the town's beauty salon, and the worry about a lost poster concerning her newly found puppy she's had for two months. The characters are outlined beautifully, and I can actually see Summer, Evan, Alex, Barney, Mrs. Beesley, and many of the other characters, such as Aunt Clara and Carl, in my mind's eye. I can even see Summer's friend Vanessa, even though she's in online chats only. The only confusion I had was between Francesca and Patricia, and which one was the murder victim/inventor, and which one was the woman who got her hair cut at the beginning of the book. I liked the way the book developed throughout and the way the story ended. I gave this book 5 stars and recommend it to anyone who likes a good mystery. I received an advanced reader's copy and this is my voluntary and honest review.
February 21, 2024
This Spring Harbor cozy mystery is page-turning with a light-hearted nature and exceptional world-building and characters that are quirky, captivating, and realistic. Their journey is enthralling with a short cut to murder, an amateur sleuth, hairstylist, Summer Snow, in a town of tides and tresses, where the scent of blooming flowers mingles in this picturesque town, deceit, a tangle of secrets, whispers of tragic misfortune, a covert investigation, action, adventure, heartfelt emotions, determination, reveal a hidden killer, the town's shadows, a touch of romance, no cliffhanger, swearing, or graphic scenes, and more. I recommend reading this book by an extraordinary author who knows how to captivate her readers' hearts and attention with a short cut to murder and a cozy mystery that is sure to transport readers on an exhilarating roller coaster ride that is dangerous and unforgettable.
I received this book in exchange for a voluntary review.
I received this book in exchange for a voluntary review.
February 12, 2024
Summer is working at the beauty salon which Mrs. Beesley owns. After the notoriety from Aunt Clara’s hairdo went viral at hairdressing competition, Mrs. Beesley hires Summer in hopes that she will increase the clientele. Summer is working on a client when she notices an odd text on the client’s phone. Not long after, tragedy strikes and Summer feels compelled to investigate. Was the accident really an accident or murder? As Summer starts to investigate, she wonders if someone from her past found her and be involved, or could someone attending the expo be involved? At the same time, Evan is building feelings for Summer and is concerned about her involvement to investigate. I enjoyed the story and look forward the next book.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 13, 2024
I knew Aunt Clara and Carl were on a ski trip but it was fun how they checked in with Summer. More of Summer’s past came out as she finally told those closest to her the additional details. She knew her past was connected to the current murder situation and was jumping at every little sound. But being careful was never a bad thing, especially if you’re a cozy mystery main character trying to avoid danger from the past.
I love how Summer was able to get the goods on the perp, so the main mystery was satisfactorily solved. There’s still a small hint of her past possibly creeping up and the salon situation still needs resolved from the new information Summer had. The very ending was super adorable for both Summer and her little Barney pup. Can’t wait till the next book comes out!
I love how Summer was able to get the goods on the perp, so the main mystery was satisfactorily solved. There’s still a small hint of her past possibly creeping up and the salon situation still needs resolved from the new information Summer had. The very ending was super adorable for both Summer and her little Barney pup. Can’t wait till the next book comes out!
February 8, 2024
This was a intriguing and engaging mystery. Summer Snow finds herself involved in another mystery when a customer at her beauty shop looks at an odd text on her cell phone that Summer happens to see. The message seems to be some sort of code. Does the message have anything to do with the fatality of a woman who crashed her car in the snow into a tree in town? Was the woman a victim of murder or was it an unfortunate accident? Find the answers to these questions by reading this enticing book. I highly recommend this book to other cozy mystery readers. I received an ARC of this book, and the opinion expressed is strictly my own.
February 11, 2024
Summer is a hairdresser with a nose for news.
Hair too, but not so much this book.
Not really news, mostly nosey with a penchant to solve murders.
Summer can’t help herself when she sees a mysterious text while working on a client.
Much to the dismay of her friends Alex, Evan, and the town sheriff she continues to stick her nose where it does not belong.
She’s already in deep trouble with her former boss who’s got his henchmen out to get her.
Despite her safety she vows to solve this case.
That she does while also getting a little more comfortable in Spring Harbor with cuteness overload of Barney and Betty.
I received an ARC copy for my honest review.
Hair too, but not so much this book.
Not really news, mostly nosey with a penchant to solve murders.
Summer can’t help herself when she sees a mysterious text while working on a client.
Much to the dismay of her friends Alex, Evan, and the town sheriff she continues to stick her nose where it does not belong.
She’s already in deep trouble with her former boss who’s got his henchmen out to get her.
Despite her safety she vows to solve this case.
That she does while also getting a little more comfortable in Spring Harbor with cuteness overload of Barney and Betty.
I received an ARC copy for my honest review.
February 17, 2024
Summer Snow is in hiding from her former boss. All because she didn't know enough to not see what the noise was in DaVilla,'s office. She has been in Spring Harbor for quite a few months and decided that she was going to settle down there. But, Summer being Summer has to snoop into the case that Chief Brady is investigating. Does one of the thugs from DaVilla's find her? Does she end up getting killed or roughed up by DaVilla's thugs? I cried at the end of the story. Did you? I highly recommend this series. I can't wait for the next book.
I volunteered a honest review as I received an ARC copy of this book.
I volunteered a honest review as I received an ARC copy of this book.
February 6, 2024
Summer doesn't know who she wants to be when she grows up. Certainly that is reflected in her career choice. She works cutting hair now as she tries to hide, but previously worked in a law office. When interesting events happen she wants to investigate - her detective side. She has not had the training and background. As she notes:
She hadn’t done enough of an investigation into the victim.
Even when it's not a murder case she can't help herself:
I said I would help them find her.
History is a tangled mess and she frets continuously about hers.
She hadn’t done enough of an investigation into the victim.
Even when it's not a murder case she can't help herself:
I said I would help them find her.
History is a tangled mess and she frets continuously about hers.
February 17, 2024
'A Short Cut to Murder' was thrilling. The riveting plot was filled with intrigue, eavesdropping on an arcane text, suspense, tension, some action, an adorable puppy, confessions, bits of levity, more confessions, whodunit, and a new home. Summer, the protagonist and busybody extraordinaire, tried her best to help the authorities solve the murder. We also learned why she came to the West Coast and the secrets surrounding Mr. DeVilla. Overall, I liked the entertaining storyline.
I received a copy for free and am voluntarily giving my honest review.
I received a copy for free and am voluntarily giving my honest review.
February 27, 2024
Book number 2in this series leaves me looking forward to number 3! Summer is working at Mrs. Beasley’s hair salon , and in fact, looking to purchase it. When a woman with beautiful long hair comes on and requests a pixie cut, Summer wonders why and then notices a cryptic note on the woman’s phone. Next thing she hears the woman has died in a car accident - or was it an accident? Of course Summer has to investigate! This is an exciting and intriguing mystery, and I appreciate receiving a free ARC copy. I wrote this review voluntarily.
April 12, 2025
Summer thought she had found a future when she settled in Spring Harbor (On the run from a bad guy in her past) She is in the works on being a partner in the Salon she works at. There were many strangers coming in to get their hair done for a a big business conference in town. Summer had a clint come in with long beautiful hair and wanted a make over. While doing this Summer happen to see a text this women received. Summer felt like it was a a suspicious text. Later the woman is in a car accident, or was it?
Many twist and turns an possible suspects. Really enjoyed this book.
Many twist and turns an possible suspects. Really enjoyed this book.
February 17, 2024
In this book we learn more about the reason Summer fled to California. And could her troubles back in Georgia have followed her? When a stranger becomes involved in a traffic accident, Summer thinks there may be more to it and begins her own investigation. This is a cute cozy read with interesting characters and a bit of romance. I enjoyed this book and am looking forward to the next in the series. I received a complimentary copy of this book and chose to write a voluntary, unbiased review.
February 18, 2024
Short Cut to Murder is Book 2 in A Spring Harbor Cozy Mystery bt Amber Crews. I so enjoy this new series by Amber Crews. Summer is a wonderful main character along with her Aunt Clara. Summer is now working in a beauty shop instead of going back home and a murder brings her sleuthing skills out. This series is a great escape into a small town USA. I always find a can't put down book when written by Amber Crewes. I received an arc for free and am leaving my review voluntarily.
March 2, 2024
A fabulously well written cozy mystery murder with an array of colorful and quirky characters that draw you in while being enticed further through the intrigue of lies, secrets,betrayal and murder. I was so captivated by the plot and intriguing characters chasing down clues, motives and suspects I was taken of guard when I realized I had reached the unexpected and climatic conclusion. Acquire " A Shortcut to Murder " today so you yourself can enjoy it as much as I have. Kat
April 13, 2024
Such a fun read!
Hard to put this one down! Summer is planning on purchasing the hair salon she is helping run. But with a conference in town, strange things start to happen. A recent client meets a tragic end. Accident or something worse? Can Summer figure it out before something happens to her? A little romance, a !it of mystery makes for a satisfying read.
I received an ARC. This is my honest review.
Hard to put this one down! Summer is planning on purchasing the hair salon she is helping run. But with a conference in town, strange things start to happen. A recent client meets a tragic end. Accident or something worse? Can Summer figure it out before something happens to her? A little romance, a !it of mystery makes for a satisfying read.
I received an ARC. This is my honest review.
February 17, 2024
What starts as a possible clue to a woman trying to hide her identity becomes a twisted tale that keeps you trying to figure out how everyone is tied together. If you follow the various trails that are laid out, you think the murder was done by one person until another person is added.
I read this one and cannot wait to see where the next "chapter" takes us.
I read this one and cannot wait to see where the next "chapter" takes us.
February 18, 2024
As Summer settles in Harbor Spring with a new job at the hair salon, she finally feels like she fits in. However, as she unintentionally views a strange text
on one her client's phone, she seems to be involved in a new mystery she needs to solve. The great characters, twists & turns in this new series will not leave you disappointed!
on one her client's phone, she seems to be involved in a new mystery she needs to solve. The great characters, twists & turns in this new series will not leave you disappointed!
February 17, 2024
Summer thought she had found a future. On the run from a bad guy in her past, she has settled in Spring Harbor. She's planning to buy the hair salon where she's currently working. There has been an influx of strangers, getting their hair done, because they are attending a big business conference in town. One of the attendees seems to be trying to change her appearance. And while she's in Summer's chair, she gets what appears to be a suspicious text. When she turns up dead in a car accident, Summer needs to know more.
Other strange goings on in town have Summer's head spinning, but she's trying to figure things out while getting her feet back on the ground, and kindling a personal relationship.
A fun cozy mystery. Clean and easy to read.
Other strange goings on in town have Summer's head spinning, but she's trying to figure things out while getting her feet back on the ground, and kindling a personal relationship.
A fun cozy mystery. Clean and easy to read.
February 17, 2024
Ms. Crewes knows how to grab and audience and keep them enthralled with great characters and an intriguing story. What more can a reader want? All is fulfilled between these pages. You're going to love it. Highly Recommended.
February 20, 2024
A beautifully written story of life in Spring Harbour. When things happen, Summer feels that not all is right. There’s danger and secrets and Summer hopes that she can solve it quickly. Loved it.
July 2, 2024
Decent story but I’m getting bored with the investigation that arises out of nothing but curiosity or nosiness.
August 24, 2024
A SHORT CUT TO MURDER
This is the 2nd book in the Spring Harbor Series. It's pretty good but still having too many "rabbit trails" all at the same time! Hopefully #3 will be better!
This is the 2nd book in the Spring Harbor Series. It's pretty good but still having too many "rabbit trails" all at the same time! Hopefully #3 will be better!
March 4, 2024
Exciting, suspenseful cozy mystery!
This is an unputdownable book! The characters are amazing and lovable! Amber Crewed knows how to keep your attention to see what will happen next. Be sure to read this and see if you can figure out who the murderer is. Happy reading! 😊🤧
This is an unputdownable book! The characters are amazing and lovable! Amber Crewed knows how to keep your attention to see what will happen next. Be sure to read this and see if you can figure out who the murderer is. Happy reading! 😊🤧
February 21, 2024
An entertaining cozy mystery that continues the adventures of Summer Snow in Spring Harbour. Likable characters and an interesting plot make this a highly enjoyable read
Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
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