One of the author’s better recent books.
I was hooked right from the start. I liked the history aspect and all the family themes (though I have to admit that the MC’s sisters were terrible at the start).
As with many of Coble’s other books, there are a lot of characters. When I say a lot, I truly mean it.

4 Stars

Content: lots and lots of murder and death, a kiss, a couple of unfaithful spouses ( )

Fragile Designs by Colleen Coble had an intriguing beginning. Carly is a strong woman who puts her family first. She has a big heart. At times, though, I did find myself rolling my eyes. I do not want to give anything away, but I am curious as to how Carly could be that naïve (in her relationships with men). The main characters are developed while others fell a little flat. There was one individual in particular who had a major role that I thought needed more development. The first third of the book was engaging. It had me curious to find out what would happen next. Then, unfortunately, the story seemed to slow down as a slew of new characters were introduced along with farfetched, superfluous storylines. I wish the author had not tried to overcomplicate the mystery. I liked that the mystery involved a Faberge egg. Like the author, I find them appealing. They are unique works of art. I liked the action. I did feel that the story could have used more of it, especially in the middle. The guilty party can easily be identified despite the misdirection. A dramatic scene near the end had me rolling my eyes (again). The epilogue neatly wraps up the book (gives readers a heartwarming ending). There were some details in the book that were unrealistic (no way would they happen in real life). Carly made some choices regarding her child during the story that were questionable (would have mothers with young children screaming “what are you thinking”). The longwinded and repetitive explanations slowed down the pace of the story (and took away from the suspense). Fragile Designs has a good concept. I wish the last two-thirds of Fragile Designs had been like the beginning. ( )

Thank you, Net Galley, for an advance copy of this book.

In Fragile Designs, Colleen Coble combines twins separated at birth, domestic drama, a murder or two, a Faberge Egg and romance. What could be better? After the murder of her police officer husband seven months earlier, Carly, finds herself living with her grandmother in a large Victorian in Beaufort SC with her newborn son. Next door is an old beau and his brother Lucas, a Beaufort PD Detective. Carly, who collects and sells antiques, has inherited estate items from her great-grandmother. While cataloguing the items, Carly makes some major discoveries regarding family history and finds a real Faberge Egg made for the Russian Imperial Family in 1885.

Almost immediately, strange people appear in Carly's life and danger is imminent. Carly enlists the aid of her neighbor Lucas to look into the several mysteries and the murder of her husband that have suddenly appeared. A major renovation of her grandmother's house brings two difficult younger sisters back into her life. Carly is forced to prioritize her own needs and resolve old and new hurts to move on.

Throughout the author does a brilliant job of navigating twists and turns seamlessly keeping the readers interest right to the end. I am a fan of Colleen Coble and have read almost all her books. I enjoyed this ride and was delighted to see my favorite independent bookstore in Pawley's Island included!
This book will keep your attention!

There was so much happening in this book, it begs for a sequel. ( )

A very interesting, layered mystery with complex family dynamics. The relationships surrounding Carly are fragile, from the one with her deceased husband to her parents, sisters and the cop next door. But Carly tries to hold it all together while caring for her infant son., Noah.
Great plotting with twists and turns aplenty. The characters show growth amid danger. And love emerges despite reservations. Lots of hidden things are uncovered in this absorbing tale.
*A complimentary copy of this book was provided by Thomas Nelson via NetGalley. All opinions expressed are mine alone.* ( )

Fragile Designs has a wonderful plot including a missing Fabergé egg, murders and attempted murders, break-ins, and a kidnapping. Coble has created interesting characters that readers will root for: Carly, a young widow; Lucas, the police officer that lives next door; Mary, Carly's boho wearing grandmother; and many more. Where this story lost one of its stars from my review was in the details that did not line up with one another, or that did not line up with how the real world works, a pet peeve of mine. If you are looking for a quick read with lots of action, and are not one to get bogged down in the small details, this will be a great choice for you.

I am grateful to have received a complimentary copy of Fragile Designs from Thomas Nelson via NetGalley without obligation. All opinions expressed here are my own. ( )