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The Most Wonderful Crime of the Year
Knives Out gets a holiday rom-com twist in this rivals-to-lovers romance-mystery from New York Times bestselling author Ally Carter.
The bridge is out. The phones are down. And the most famous mystery writer in the world just disappeared out of a locked room three days before Christmas.
Meet Maggie Chase and Ethan Wyatt:
She’s the new Queen of the Cozy Mystery.
He’s Mr. Big-time Thriller Guy.
She hates his guts.
He thinks her name is Marcie (no matter how many times she’s told him otherwise.)
But when they both accept a cryptic invitation to attend a Christmas house party at the English estate of a reclusive fan, neither is expecting their host to be the most powerful author in the world: Eleanor Ashley, the Duchess of Death herself.
That night, the weather turns, and the next morning Eleanor is gone.
She vanished from a locked room, and Maggie has to wonder: Is Eleanor in danger? Or is it all some kind of test? Is Ethan the competition? Or is he the only person in that snowbound mansion she can trust?
As the snow gets deeper and the stakes get higher, every clue will bring Maggie and Ethan closer to the truth—and each other. Because, this Christmas, these two rivals are going to have to become allies (and maybe more) if they have any hope of saving Eleanor.
Assuming they don’t kill each other first.
The bridge is out. The phones are down. And the most famous mystery writer in the world just disappeared out of a locked room three days before Christmas.
Meet Maggie Chase and Ethan Wyatt:
She’s the new Queen of the Cozy Mystery.
He’s Mr. Big-time Thriller Guy.
She hates his guts.
He thinks her name is Marcie (no matter how many times she’s told him otherwise.)
But when they both accept a cryptic invitation to attend a Christmas house party at the English estate of a reclusive fan, neither is expecting their host to be the most powerful author in the world: Eleanor Ashley, the Duchess of Death herself.
That night, the weather turns, and the next morning Eleanor is gone.
She vanished from a locked room, and Maggie has to wonder: Is Eleanor in danger? Or is it all some kind of test? Is Ethan the competition? Or is he the only person in that snowbound mansion she can trust?
As the snow gets deeper and the stakes get higher, every clue will bring Maggie and Ethan closer to the truth—and each other. Because, this Christmas, these two rivals are going to have to become allies (and maybe more) if they have any hope of saving Eleanor.
Assuming they don’t kill each other first.
304 pages, Hardcover
First published September 24, 2024
About the author
Ally Carter
50 books16.9k followersAlly Carter writes books about sneaky people and movies about Christmas. She is the New York Times Best-selling author of the Gallagher Girls, Heist Society, and Embassy Row series for teens as well as WINTERBORNE HOME FOR VENGEANCE AND VALOR for younger readers. Her books have been published all over the world, in over twenty languages.
She encourages you to visit her online at allycarter.com and embassyrowbooks.com.
She encourages you to visit her online at allycarter.com and embassyrowbooks.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 5,655 reviews
December 9, 2024
4.5 stars! Incredible!!!! one of my favorite holiday reads
December 9, 2024
This was SO much fun. I need more cozy mystery romcoms in my life!!
December 16, 2024
I think if the author wanted to rename this book, it could be: "It Happened in the Elevator."
A locked-room mystery about an eighty-one-year-old crime queen’s mysterious disappearance in the middle of a blizzard from her own study without leaving a trace, pointing to some perpetrator who has been threatening her life for a long time, meets an enemies-to-lovers and rival authors' mystery: yes, sign me up!
I already rounded up my four and a half stars to give it a full five. It's an entertaining, trapped-in-a-mansion scenario where everyone has a motive to be the killer—a perfect crime of the year!
Yes, Christmas came early for me as soon as I started reading this book! The twisty murder mystery is smart and riveting. The characterization reminds you of the movie “Clue”! Maggie (not Marcie) and Ethan’s chemistry hits the roof, making you hyperventilate, even though it takes place in the freezing wintertime in England! Ethan reminded me of the mischievous, playful, flirty Richard Castle, including his relationship with his dad! (Who can resist reading a book when the hero is as charming as Nathan Fillion?) Maggie’s traumatic past is heartbreaking. Her self-deprecation and suspicions about people’s motives are understandable, but her wounds make her one of the best crime writers.
I loved the recurring themes in the book. Especially when I found out the reason why Ethan keeps calling Maggie by the wrong name, I made a loud “awww” sound, forgetting I was reading this book in a cafe. Everyone gathered around me to ask what I was reading, was it really good, and I told them it was not good, it was perfect!
I also adored the Tucson chapter. It made my eyes blurry!
The only thing I didn’t like, which made me cut half a star, were the repetitive lines like Maggie telling everyone she and Ethan hate each other and Ethan repeatedly saying he has to protect her as if he’s a superhero from MCU movies, stuck with a cheesy line the worst screenwriters put on paper, dooming the entire movie to flop at the box office.
Instead of those lines, I loved how the romance bloomed between Ethan and Maggie. They are afraid of coming clean about their feelings, hiding behind harsh banter (from Maggie’s side) and flirty teasing (from Ethan’s coping mechanism). I loved how they teamed up to solve the mystery of the missing author and the perpetrator who threatens Maggie's life, leading to a satisfying resolution.
I hope the authors bring these two characters back to crack another mystery! So far, I’ve had an amazing time! I highly recommend you go in blind and jump into this book if you’re a die-hard fan of the enemies-to-lovers trope and, of course, an intelligently written locked-room mystery with riveting pacing. Luckily, this book blends thriller and romance in a smart style that guarantees so much fun!
Many thanks to NetGalley and Avon and Harper Voyager for sharing this highly enjoyable Christmas romance mystery’s digital reviewer copy with me in exchange for my honest thoughts.
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A locked-room mystery about an eighty-one-year-old crime queen’s mysterious disappearance in the middle of a blizzard from her own study without leaving a trace, pointing to some perpetrator who has been threatening her life for a long time, meets an enemies-to-lovers and rival authors' mystery: yes, sign me up!
I already rounded up my four and a half stars to give it a full five. It's an entertaining, trapped-in-a-mansion scenario where everyone has a motive to be the killer—a perfect crime of the year!
Yes, Christmas came early for me as soon as I started reading this book! The twisty murder mystery is smart and riveting. The characterization reminds you of the movie “Clue”! Maggie (not Marcie) and Ethan’s chemistry hits the roof, making you hyperventilate, even though it takes place in the freezing wintertime in England! Ethan reminded me of the mischievous, playful, flirty Richard Castle, including his relationship with his dad! (Who can resist reading a book when the hero is as charming as Nathan Fillion?) Maggie’s traumatic past is heartbreaking. Her self-deprecation and suspicions about people’s motives are understandable, but her wounds make her one of the best crime writers.
I loved the recurring themes in the book. Especially when I found out the reason why Ethan keeps calling Maggie by the wrong name, I made a loud “awww” sound, forgetting I was reading this book in a cafe. Everyone gathered around me to ask what I was reading, was it really good, and I told them it was not good, it was perfect!
I also adored the Tucson chapter. It made my eyes blurry!
The only thing I didn’t like, which made me cut half a star, were the repetitive lines like Maggie telling everyone she and Ethan hate each other and Ethan repeatedly saying he has to protect her as if he’s a superhero from MCU movies, stuck with a cheesy line the worst screenwriters put on paper, dooming the entire movie to flop at the box office.
Instead of those lines, I loved how the romance bloomed between Ethan and Maggie. They are afraid of coming clean about their feelings, hiding behind harsh banter (from Maggie’s side) and flirty teasing (from Ethan’s coping mechanism). I loved how they teamed up to solve the mystery of the missing author and the perpetrator who threatens Maggie's life, leading to a satisfying resolution.
I hope the authors bring these two characters back to crack another mystery! So far, I’ve had an amazing time! I highly recommend you go in blind and jump into this book if you’re a die-hard fan of the enemies-to-lovers trope and, of course, an intelligently written locked-room mystery with riveting pacing. Luckily, this book blends thriller and romance in a smart style that guarantees so much fun!
Many thanks to NetGalley and Avon and Harper Voyager for sharing this highly enjoyable Christmas romance mystery’s digital reviewer copy with me in exchange for my honest thoughts.
Follow me on medium.com to read my articles about books, movies, streaming series, astrology:
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December 16, 2024
Did she sound like a whiny child? Yes. Did she care? Not even a little bit.
Oh boy. Here we go.
When I first heard about this story, I thought this was it. Billed as Knives Out meets enemies-to-lovers, you couldn't get me to say "Sold!" fast enough. I immediately dropped everything on my TBR and made room for this. But alas, I'm having a hard time pointing to even one thing I liked about it.
Let me start by saying that when an author wants a down-on-their-luck heroine but don't quite know how to write one, the result is often someone like Maggie. Instead of being a character who is sympathetic and cheer-worthy, you get one who is precious, annoying, and at times downright mean. She needs constant reassurance that she's special and worthy, but she's so stuck in her pity party that all she can give back is insecurity and insults.
Enter Ethan, our nice, handsome, charming male lead who crushes hard on Maggie, no matter what she does and says to him.
"Sometimes I lie in bed at night, thinking of ways to kill you and make it look like an accident."
In case it's not clear, that isn't the murderer talking, that's Maggie speaking to Ethan. Yikes. Seriously you guys, you know anyone who's attracted to people wanting to kill them? Yeah, me neither. And Ethan's response wasn't to run out of there screaming like a banshee, but rather something insipid and flirty. I just can't.
So when you put these two characters together, you'd be right to think their interactions would be vapid and cringe-inducing. And indeed they were. Every dialogue was as dull as dishwater, yet presented like they were some sort of witty repartee deserving of swoon. Reader, I did not swoon. Indeed, I should say I was lucky I did not suffer permanent damage from the constant eye-rolling.
In order for enemies-to-lovers to work, it has to make sense why they were enemies in the first place. But here, to pile on to poor Maggie's characterization of being annoying and full of herself, her only reason for disliking Ethan, which she states time and again, is that he's "handsome and charming and . . . universally adored." Ah, pettiness doesn't look good on anyone, and Maggie certainly didn't change my mind.
It's hard to stay engaged with such bland, unlikable characters, and the writing didn't help either. During what should've been emotionally charged moments, it often felt like we were just dropped there without any buildup or the necessary cues. In fact, when Ethan revealed the big ol' secret of his job prior to being an author, I actually laughed because I thought it was a punchline and he was joking.
But what about the mystery, you ask? Well, it had potential, but ultimately ended up rather clichéd. It's clear that the focus of the story was on Maggie and Ethan, and the rest of the characters were more or less cartoony cutouts lifted from the mystery genre. And I'm willing to put up with that, if not for the very end.
Mystery writers everywhere, in case it's not clear, I never want to reach the end of the mystery and see the line "there are some mysteries that are better left unsolved, some questions better left unanswered." Uh, no. Writers, it is your duty, after all that build up, to make sure I know every which way exactly how it all unfolded. It is not cute nor satisfying to leave a big part of the mystery unsolved just because.
But hey, don't let me dissuade you. I see nothing but glowing reviews for this book, so what do I know? But if you're unsure, I've devised a litmus test:
"Dobson thinks we tried to kill Eleanor. But that's crazy. Isn't that crazy? I think that's crazy. Because you are you. and I am me, and we are not a we?"
If that quote and all the italics made sense to you, have at it. Otherwise, you're probably better off saving your TBR—and your eyes—for a less exasperating read.
~~~~~~~~~~~~
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December 6, 2024
Finally!!! A holiday book for the thriller girls!!!
December 13, 2024
Do you like the enemies-to-lovers trope? Do you like locked-room cozy mysteries? Does a snowed-in scenario at an English countryside estate sound good? Does a story inspired by the famous disappearance of Agatha Christie intrigue you? Do you like a wounded FMC who has to learn to let her guard down and trust the sarcastic, yet eminently lovable MMC?
Welcome to Ally Carter’s newest book The Most Wonderful Crime of the Year, where you’ll get a solid cozy mystery and a charming rom-com all rolled into one!
Mystery author Maggie Chase hates Ethan Wyatt, a fellow author at their publishing imprint. He’s good-looking, popular with literally everyone and the guy can NEVER get her name right. Marcie? Margaret Grace? Margaret Olivia? Margaret Lavinia? (For the record, it’s Margaret Elizabeth). What she doesn’t understand is that Ethan knows EXACTLY who she is and has since the very first moment he saw her in that elevator years ago!
When Maggie and Ethan are unexpectedly invited for Christmas to the vast estate of Eleanor Ashley, the grand dame of their fictional mystery-writing world, Maggie thinks she may have died and gone to heaven! Her euphoria is short-lived when the eighty-one-year-old, whose books were Maggie’s lifeblood growing up, goes missing from her locked office
Trapped by a blizzard with an assortment of Eleanor’s other guests, including her son and daughter-in-law, her niece, butler, doctor, a lawyer, an inspector, a duchess and duke and fellow author Sir Jasper, Maggie has to draw on her extensive knowledge of Eleanor’s books to try to solve the mystery of what happened to her, if she can avoid all those pesky attempts on her life. It’s a good thing Ethan used to be a ! Maybe he’s not so bad after all …
This was really cute! The mystery is decent and serves to move the story along and give a reason for our MCs to grow closer, but it’s not the strength of the book. Where the book shines is the romance arc and the sarcastic, playful banter between Maggie and Ethan, which was so fun on the audio narrated by the talented Saskia Maarleveld and Zachary Webber. Each gets their own POV chapters, so you get both sides of the story, which is told in present and past chapters with short but hilarious police interview interstitials scattered throughout.
If you like a holiday rom-com with a little Agatha-inspired mystery thrown in, this is a fun one!
★★★★
Thanks to Avon and Harper Voyager Books, NetGalley and author Ally Carter for the digital ARC to honestly review and to my library/Libby for the audio. It’s out now.
Welcome to Ally Carter’s newest book The Most Wonderful Crime of the Year, where you’ll get a solid cozy mystery and a charming rom-com all rolled into one!
Mystery author Maggie Chase hates Ethan Wyatt, a fellow author at their publishing imprint. He’s good-looking, popular with literally everyone and the guy can NEVER get her name right. Marcie? Margaret Grace? Margaret Olivia? Margaret Lavinia? (For the record, it’s Margaret Elizabeth). What she doesn’t understand is that Ethan knows EXACTLY who she is and has since the very first moment he saw her in that elevator years ago!
When Maggie and Ethan are unexpectedly invited for Christmas to the vast estate of Eleanor Ashley, the grand dame of their fictional mystery-writing world, Maggie thinks she may have died and gone to heaven! Her euphoria is short-lived when the eighty-one-year-old, whose books were Maggie’s lifeblood growing up, goes missing from her locked office
Trapped by a blizzard with an assortment of Eleanor’s other guests, including her son and daughter-in-law, her niece, butler, doctor, a lawyer, an inspector, a duchess and duke and fellow author Sir Jasper, Maggie has to draw on her extensive knowledge of Eleanor’s books to try to solve the mystery of what happened to her, if she can avoid all those pesky attempts on her life. It’s a good thing Ethan used to be a ! Maybe he’s not so bad after all …
This was really cute! The mystery is decent and serves to move the story along and give a reason for our MCs to grow closer, but it’s not the strength of the book. Where the book shines is the romance arc and the sarcastic, playful banter between Maggie and Ethan, which was so fun on the audio narrated by the talented Saskia Maarleveld and Zachary Webber. Each gets their own POV chapters, so you get both sides of the story, which is told in present and past chapters with short but hilarious police interview interstitials scattered throughout.
If you like a holiday rom-com with a little Agatha-inspired mystery thrown in, this is a fun one!
★★★★
Thanks to Avon and Harper Voyager Books, NetGalley and author Ally Carter for the digital ARC to honestly review and to my library/Libby for the audio. It’s out now.
October 29, 2024
Fun, nearly unputdownable, and full of interesting characters. I enjoyed this book — I went in with no expectations since it was, after all, a holiday-themed romance meets crime novel. I suppose I was expecting something closer to a Hallmark movie, and while those can be entertaining, this book was much better than any of those movies I’ve seen. The main character development is moderate — I didn’t feel like anyone was fully- or under-developed. We get to know everyone just enough to care. The cast of characters can make some details a little blurry, but I enjoyed how everyone is slightly ridiculous-entirely psychopathic. The writing is well done, and the story keeps readers guessing and giggling.
September 24, 2024
Although I don’t think the cover fits the book at all, I really enjoyed it! A fun mystery with a bit of romance and comedy thrown in.
There are a lot of books that claim to be for those who enjoyed Knives Out, but this one actually reminded me quite a bit of that movie. Maggie Chase and Ethan Wyatt are both bestselling authors, but they don't like each other at all. Now they have both been invited to spend Christmas with a mysterious "fan" in England, who turns out to be the queen of all mystery writers, Eleanor Ashley. They are joined by Eleanor's various family members and other staff, but on the night after their arrival--Eleanor disappears from a locked room. They become snowed in, the bridge is out, and it seems that someone wants to commit murder. What happened to Eleanor and can Maggie and Ethan put aside their differences to stay alive?
I thoroughly enjoyed this mystery, and although the ultimate reveal of the main villain was lackluster and rushed, the entire experience of the book was so delightful it didn't really matter. There are little clues and mysteries to solve, and watching Ethan and Maggie work through their pasts gave the book more depth and meaning. Their banter is exactly what one looks for in a rom-com!
Ignore the silly cover and title, this book is well worth reading.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book, all opinions are my own.
There are a lot of books that claim to be for those who enjoyed Knives Out, but this one actually reminded me quite a bit of that movie. Maggie Chase and Ethan Wyatt are both bestselling authors, but they don't like each other at all. Now they have both been invited to spend Christmas with a mysterious "fan" in England, who turns out to be the queen of all mystery writers, Eleanor Ashley. They are joined by Eleanor's various family members and other staff, but on the night after their arrival--Eleanor disappears from a locked room. They become snowed in, the bridge is out, and it seems that someone wants to commit murder. What happened to Eleanor and can Maggie and Ethan put aside their differences to stay alive?
I thoroughly enjoyed this mystery, and although the ultimate reveal of the main villain was lackluster and rushed, the entire experience of the book was so delightful it didn't really matter. There are little clues and mysteries to solve, and watching Ethan and Maggie work through their pasts gave the book more depth and meaning. Their banter is exactly what one looks for in a rom-com!
Ignore the silly cover and title, this book is well worth reading.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book, all opinions are my own.
December 11, 2024
There will be spoilers in this review.
Reading the synopsis, this is what I thought the story would be: Maggie and Ethan, two authors who for some reason can’t stand each other, are invited to this famous author’s home. The author, Eleanor Ashley, disappears, and now they are forced to work together to figure out what happened, and also they’ll obviously fall in love.
So that’s what I expected, that’s what I wanted. But it’s not what I got.
What could’ve been a cute romance with a mystery side plot turned into a game of Clue come alive with some random romance elements that felt very forced, way too many characters and a half-baked mystery.
I thought (and hoped) that it would just be Maggie and Ethan trying to solve the mystery, but no.
To give you an idea here’s a list of all the characters in this story that I can remember: Maggie and Ethan, Sir Jasper, Inspector Dobson, the Duke and Duchess of Stratford, Rupert and Kitty and their children, their children’s Nanny, Dr. Charles, James the butler, Freddy Banes.
And there might have been more.
What’s even worse, I did not like a single one of them. Especially Maggie and Ethan, which I’m pretty sure I was supposed to like since they’re the main characters in this romance. All of them just annoyed me to varying degrees.
But back to the story, after Maggie and Ethan arrived and Eleanor disappeared, the two of them try to work together and their behaviour was just so odd. Like they think someone in the house did something to Eleanor, possibly murdered her, and they are trying to find clues and stuff and then all of a sudden they would just randomly start flirting and making out, eventually even having sex while still searching for this missing woman and staying in a house with people they suspect of murder. Like that's just weird?
Maybe I took it too seriously, but their actions didn’t match the seriousness of the situation at all, nor did the things they said and thought. Maggie kept talking about how much she hated Ethan (for no reason) and then they'd start kissing out of nowhere? They acted so familiar with each other, and I just kept thinking how they don’t even know each other. It was really frustrating to read. And it got more frustrating the further I got.
My favourite scene has to be this though: Close to the end, someone knocked Maggie out, dragged her to some shack, tied her up and left her there. Ethan finds her, tries to get her out, someone sets the whole thing on fire. They escape to some cottage, she’s actively bleeding from a head wound, and then they just have sex right then and there. Like wtf is happening?!
Also the whole story revolves around finding Eleanor and then they don’t really? She’s just gone? Because this was all some elaborate plan? And now she lives on a Greek island with the butler??!!
___
I’m not into christmasy books at all but this cover speaks to me for some reason 👀 🤸♀️
Fingers crossed it’s more on the wintry side!
Reading the synopsis, this is what I thought the story would be: Maggie and Ethan, two authors who for some reason can’t stand each other, are invited to this famous author’s home. The author, Eleanor Ashley, disappears, and now they are forced to work together to figure out what happened, and also they’ll obviously fall in love.
So that’s what I expected, that’s what I wanted. But it’s not what I got.
What could’ve been a cute romance with a mystery side plot turned into a game of Clue come alive with some random romance elements that felt very forced, way too many characters and a half-baked mystery.
I thought (and hoped) that it would just be Maggie and Ethan trying to solve the mystery, but no.
To give you an idea here’s a list of all the characters in this story that I can remember: Maggie and Ethan, Sir Jasper, Inspector Dobson, the Duke and Duchess of Stratford, Rupert and Kitty and their children, their children’s Nanny, Dr. Charles, James the butler, Freddy Banes.
And there might have been more.
What’s even worse, I did not like a single one of them. Especially Maggie and Ethan, which I’m pretty sure I was supposed to like since they’re the main characters in this romance. All of them just annoyed me to varying degrees.
But back to the story, after Maggie and Ethan arrived and Eleanor disappeared, the two of them try to work together and their behaviour was just so odd. Like they think someone in the house did something to Eleanor, possibly murdered her, and they are trying to find clues and stuff and then all of a sudden they would just randomly start flirting and making out, eventually even having sex while still searching for this missing woman and staying in a house with people they suspect of murder. Like that's just weird?
Maybe I took it too seriously, but their actions didn’t match the seriousness of the situation at all, nor did the things they said and thought. Maggie kept talking about how much she hated Ethan (for no reason) and then they'd start kissing out of nowhere? They acted so familiar with each other, and I just kept thinking how they don’t even know each other. It was really frustrating to read. And it got more frustrating the further I got.
My favourite scene has to be this though: Close to the end, someone knocked Maggie out, dragged her to some shack, tied her up and left her there. Ethan finds her, tries to get her out, someone sets the whole thing on fire. They escape to some cottage, she’s actively bleeding from a head wound, and then they just have sex right then and there. Like wtf is happening?!
Also the whole story revolves around finding Eleanor and then they don’t really? She’s just gone? Because this was all some elaborate plan? And now she lives on a Greek island with the butler??!!
___
I’m not into christmasy books at all but this cover speaks to me for some reason 👀 🤸♀️
Fingers crossed it’s more on the wintry side!
October 4, 2024
Super Christmassy and fun. I cranked up the air conditioning so I could get in the mood to read it, being that my library loan came in months before the season!
Very much contemporary romance + Knives Out/Agatha Christie + loads of humor. While the mystery was intriguing for the first 3/4, I didn't end up loving the culprit, which surprised me given how well-plotted and engaging it was before that.
The romance, though, is really, really cute. I like her, I love him, I like their detective work together, and I love this mash-up of cozy modern mystery with an edge blended with enemies-to-lovers energy. A great pick when you want to get in the holiday mood.
3.5 stars So very nearly a strong 4. I am chuffed to see so many YA authors doing well crossing over into adult books, though. Sometimes it's an eyeroll, but recently there have been some very good ones.
Audio Notes: Both narrators are great. The dynamic jazzy opening/closing music is very Archer/Jonny Quest, which sets the tone nicely (but it doesn’t intrude since it’s limited to those bookends, something I which I wish other audio productions would take note of).
Side Note: I rarely comment on cover art, but man oh man, did this story deserve better. I see the Archer/Chris Evans fisherman sweater influence, but I also see pine-scented man soap ad and...I don't even know. ETA: I SEE A PINK GIRLY VERSION FOR THE KINDLE ART. I still don't love the artwork for that, and I don't know if I really care for the male vs. female swing, down to the very gendered pink and blue choices.
Very much contemporary romance + Knives Out/Agatha Christie + loads of humor. While the mystery was intriguing for the first 3/4, I didn't end up loving the culprit, which surprised me given how well-plotted and engaging it was before that.
The romance, though, is really, really cute. I like her, I love him, I like their detective work together, and I love this mash-up of cozy modern mystery with an edge blended with enemies-to-lovers energy. A great pick when you want to get in the holiday mood.
3.5 stars So very nearly a strong 4. I am chuffed to see so many YA authors doing well crossing over into adult books, though. Sometimes it's an eyeroll, but recently there have been some very good ones.
Audio Notes: Both narrators are great. The dynamic jazzy opening/closing music is very Archer/Jonny Quest, which sets the tone nicely (but it doesn’t intrude since it’s limited to those bookends, something I which I wish other audio productions would take note of).
Side Note: I rarely comment on cover art, but man oh man, did this story deserve better. I see the Archer/Chris Evans fisherman sweater influence, but I also see pine-scented man soap ad and...I don't even know. ETA: I SEE A PINK GIRLY VERSION FOR THE KINDLE ART. I still don't love the artwork for that, and I don't know if I really care for the male vs. female swing, down to the very gendered pink and blue choices.
December 15, 2024
₊˚๑﹒3 stars﹒❄️₊˚੭
ah, i'm a little conflicted when it comes to this book. it was good mystery wise, but not romance wise. i mean evidently there has to be something wrong if "who did this to you", "touch her and i'll kill you" and also the nickname "sweetheart" didn't make me feel anything. ethan and maggie just lacked any kind of chemistry. it was non-existent. i have never had such a poker face while reading such scenes...and they should evoke some kind of feelings, right?? but if we are speaking about the mystery – it was so fun and entertaining! so let's just pretend that the romance part didn't even exist, and since i feel like being generous today, i'm rating only the mystery part.
ᝰ.ᐟ pre-read
this sounds super interesting 👀
ah, i'm a little conflicted when it comes to this book. it was good mystery wise, but not romance wise. i mean evidently there has to be something wrong if "who did this to you", "touch her and i'll kill you" and also the nickname "sweetheart" didn't make me feel anything. ethan and maggie just lacked any kind of chemistry. it was non-existent. i have never had such a poker face while reading such scenes...and they should evoke some kind of feelings, right?? but if we are speaking about the mystery – it was so fun and entertaining! so let's just pretend that the romance part didn't even exist, and since i feel like being generous today, i'm rating only the mystery part.
ᝰ.ᐟ pre-read
this sounds super interesting 👀
September 23, 2024
This endearing locked room murder mystery, set in a UK house during the Christmas season, is a delight to read and solve. I have to admit that this is one of the best mysteries I've read in a very long time. It was a fascinating story that felt very Agatha Christie but in the modern settings!
Though lighthearted and entertaining, this novel will make you feel things. The writing was well-done, and the atmosphere was slightly eerie. Both mystery and romance fans will find everything they're looking for in this book.
The romantic touch here is the chef's kiss! In the process of unraveling this mystery, rivals Maggie and Ethan turn into unusual allies and develop a relationship that is so well developed that it seems so natural. I cherished their back-and-forth banter and I really enjoyed reading about their feelings for one another.
And Ally Carter writes fictitious men in a way that makes you want to fall in love with them. Ethan is such a fantastic guy! I admired how he could assist Maggie in discovering her true self.
It was the perfect holiday mystery, and I could not get enough of it! Though it was my first book by Carter, it won't be my last.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the eARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
Though lighthearted and entertaining, this novel will make you feel things. The writing was well-done, and the atmosphere was slightly eerie. Both mystery and romance fans will find everything they're looking for in this book.
The romantic touch here is the chef's kiss! In the process of unraveling this mystery, rivals Maggie and Ethan turn into unusual allies and develop a relationship that is so well developed that it seems so natural. I cherished their back-and-forth banter and I really enjoyed reading about their feelings for one another.
And Ally Carter writes fictitious men in a way that makes you want to fall in love with them. Ethan is such a fantastic guy! I admired how he could assist Maggie in discovering her true self.
It was the perfect holiday mystery, and I could not get enough of it! Though it was my first book by Carter, it won't be my last.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the eARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
December 11, 2024
From chapter one, I was immediately pulled into this story—I genuinely thought I found a five-star read. The teasing, the banter, and the one-sided animosity were so good. Unfortunately, it went downhill for me towards the end.
Ethan and Maggie are two writers who receive a cryptic invitation to attend a Christmas party at the English estate of renowned author Eleanor Ashley, only for Eleanor to mysteriously disappear soon after. And I will say, the mystery itself was super engaging, with a cast of quirky characters brimming with personality that truly kept me stumped.
I loved the dynamic between Ethan and Maggie as enemies. It made me laugh multiple times as they attempt to combine their unique expertise from their respective books to find Eleanor. But once their conflict was resolved, I completely lost interest in their romance.
Maybe I’m being a bit nitpicky, but Ethan’s constant use of “sweetheart” and the repetitive “who did this to you?” protectiveness started to feel a bit too... corny. The excitement faded, and instead I found myself internally rolling my eyes a lot. He came across somewhat performative, if that makes sense.
(heat level: closed door)
Ethan and Maggie are two writers who receive a cryptic invitation to attend a Christmas party at the English estate of renowned author Eleanor Ashley, only for Eleanor to mysteriously disappear soon after. And I will say, the mystery itself was super engaging, with a cast of quirky characters brimming with personality that truly kept me stumped.
I loved the dynamic between Ethan and Maggie as enemies. It made me laugh multiple times as they attempt to combine their unique expertise from their respective books to find Eleanor. But once their conflict was resolved, I completely lost interest in their romance.
Maybe I’m being a bit nitpicky, but Ethan’s constant use of “sweetheart” and the repetitive “who did this to you?” protectiveness started to feel a bit too... corny. The excitement faded, and instead I found myself internally rolling my eyes a lot. He came across somewhat performative, if that makes sense.
(heat level: closed door)
December 14, 2024
3.5 rounded up to 4 on GR! i personally LOVE Christmas mysteries and this was exactly what i was looking for 👏🏼 it was unique, super fun on audio (full cast but mainly narrated by my fave Saskia ❤️) and kept me guessing.
this is a romcom x mystery combo set during Christmas and is honestly a really enjoyable read. it didn’t WOW me but i still really liked it. i think most readers will enjoy and it’s a quick Dec binge—i finished the audio in two sittings.
if you like games like CLUE or movies like KNIVES OUT or even missing persons/mysteries (non scary), you’ll enjoy this.
at first i thought i was gonna be really pissed about the ending (if you know you know) but it ended up ending exactly how i wanted to so overall was very pleased!!
this is a romcom x mystery combo set during Christmas and is honestly a really enjoyable read. it didn’t WOW me but i still really liked it. i think most readers will enjoy and it’s a quick Dec binge—i finished the audio in two sittings.
if you like games like CLUE or movies like KNIVES OUT or even missing persons/mysteries (non scary), you’ll enjoy this.
at first i thought i was gonna be really pissed about the ending (if you know you know) but it ended up ending exactly how i wanted to so overall was very pleased!!
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December 9, 2024Can’t wait to tell Reggie and Kennedy my favorite part
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December 11, 2024This was ridiculously fun.
November 13, 2024
This cozy holiday mystery hit all the right notes! Maggie and Ethan, two rival writers—one writes cozy mystery, one writes suspense thriller—are invited to the home of the famous mystery writer Eleanor Ashley for Christmas. But things quickly take a turn when they arrive to find the bridge out, phones down, and Eleanor has vanished from a locked room! Now they’re snowed in with no way to reach anyone, and things get real tense.
Ethan is basically a walking green flag. He’s thoughtful, protective, reads romance books, and is basically a big ol' teddy bear. Their banter was hilarious, and there were so many moments that had me giggling. And the “wanna make out” moments? I literally had to cover my mouth to stop from squealing.
I also loved how fast-paced the story was, especially with short chapters that made it impossible to stop reading. Watching Maggie grow and find herself throughout the book was amazing.
This book really pulled me in from start to finish. A super fun read that’s perfect for curling up with!
Read this if you like:
✒️ Authors MCs
✒️ Rivals to Lovers
✒️ Forced Proximity
✒️ He Falls First and Harder
🚨🚨 TW: Death of parents, infidelity (not between MCs), gaslighting, divorce
Ethan is basically a walking green flag. He’s thoughtful, protective, reads romance books, and is basically a big ol' teddy bear. Their banter was hilarious, and there were so many moments that had me giggling. And the “wanna make out” moments? I literally had to cover my mouth to stop from squealing.
I also loved how fast-paced the story was, especially with short chapters that made it impossible to stop reading. Watching Maggie grow and find herself throughout the book was amazing.
This book really pulled me in from start to finish. A super fun read that’s perfect for curling up with!
Read this if you like:
✒️ Authors MCs
✒️ Rivals to Lovers
✒️ Forced Proximity
✒️ He Falls First and Harder
🚨🚨 TW: Death of parents, infidelity (not between MCs), gaslighting, divorce
December 11, 2024
DF’d @ 57%
This book was a total let down, if i’m being honest. It’s a mystery/romance, but the romance really fell short. I didn’t feel the chemistry that should’ve been felt between Ethan and Maggie. It just wasn’t there.
And the whole mystery thing didn’t suck me in either, it was pretty boring and i didn’t really care to find out what happened.
I love this authors books, but I wouldn’t recommend this one.
This book was a total let down, if i’m being honest. It’s a mystery/romance, but the romance really fell short. I didn’t feel the chemistry that should’ve been felt between Ethan and Maggie. It just wasn’t there.
And the whole mystery thing didn’t suck me in either, it was pretty boring and i didn’t really care to find out what happened.
I love this authors books, but I wouldn’t recommend this one.
December 4, 2024
The perfect holiday read that was so much fun!! THE MOST WONDERFUL CRIME OF THE YEAR is a delightful blend of romance, mystery, and a rom-com twist that will leave you smiling. It’s the kind of feel-good, huggable book that had me giggling from start to finish, while also keeping me guessing with its fun twists. Endearing characters, sweet romance, and plenty of laughs make this the ultimate pick for cozying up this season. Highly recommend for anyone looking for a lighthearted, totally entertaining read!
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December 9, 2024Review coming after I speak with my co-hosts
November 26, 2024
“For a murder isn’t a murder when there is no death. And a mystery isn’t a mystery when it’s only a test.”
So, what is with this book title anyway? Is it a play on words of a favorite song at a specific time of year? And, if so, what does it exactly mean? Those questions were my reasons for wanting to check out this book from my local library. I was curious.
But then, when I began to read this book and got a sense of what it was about, it reminded me of the past few nights. My corgi, Oliver and I have been sneaking out of the warmth of our bedroom, in the wee hours of the morning while it was still dark, and turning on the Peacock Channel. You see, on the Peacock Channel are these Hallmark murder mystery movies. (My husband hates them, thus, the reason why Oliver and I do a sneaky retreat in the early hours when he is still sleeping.)
Back to the movies.
Anyway, even though they are focused on a murder, and a mystery to be solved, there are always these two awkward characters (typically an attractive man and an attractive woman) who are avoiding the chemistry between them. And, the question would always become, are Oliver and I watching a murder mystery or a romantic movie or a combination of both? And, what happens if they throw in our favorite holiday time of the year for scenic ambiance? What then?
So, needless to say, the same questions came up for me about this book. Only Oliver had nothing to do with this one, it was all me turning the pages. Needing to figure this one out – including whether I was up for it…or not.
Of course I was! It is that time of year, after all! Besides, how could I not resist a forced proximity trope with a little mystery thrown in at Christmastime?
So, what happens when hot hunk Ethan and recently divorced, semi-agoraphobic Maggie, both writers, get invited to spend Christmas with a fan who turns out to be Maggie’s favorite author, Eleanor?
“…I’m not the star of my books. Ultimately my characters have to speak for themselves.”
And, why did Eleanor choose to invite Ethan and Maggie to what has been an annual traditional holiday family gathering only?
“She looked…amused, …with the night. Like they were at the start of one of her favorite scenes and she was trying not to shout spoilers.”
And, while readers are taking in the ambiance of Eleanor’s castle, and all her quirky relatives, and other guests, including a police inspector, why and how did Eleanor suddenly disappear in the midst of a blizzard?
As Ethan encourages everyone to search the home, Maggie can’t help but put her mystery-writing skills to work, including her knowledge of everyone of Eleanor’s books and wonder…
Was she murdered? Is there something sinister going on? If so, why? And, who is behind it?
Or, is this a test/contest – for the mystery authors, who also happen to be invited guests, to solve?
Mostly, did Eleanor have a specific reason that mystery writers and a police inspector should be invited to her family dinner?
With twists and turns, and delicious Agatha Christie flair, this page-turner will keep readers on their toes to the very last page.
So, it wouldn’t be surprising for any reader to just want to follow along with the romantic trope, and the mystery, wondering as well, what will make this “the most wonderful crime of the year?” And, will the author throw in a HEA to top off the holiday atmosphere? (No spoilers from me.)
So, what is with this book title anyway? Is it a play on words of a favorite song at a specific time of year? And, if so, what does it exactly mean? Those questions were my reasons for wanting to check out this book from my local library. I was curious.
But then, when I began to read this book and got a sense of what it was about, it reminded me of the past few nights. My corgi, Oliver and I have been sneaking out of the warmth of our bedroom, in the wee hours of the morning while it was still dark, and turning on the Peacock Channel. You see, on the Peacock Channel are these Hallmark murder mystery movies. (My husband hates them, thus, the reason why Oliver and I do a sneaky retreat in the early hours when he is still sleeping.)
Back to the movies.
Anyway, even though they are focused on a murder, and a mystery to be solved, there are always these two awkward characters (typically an attractive man and an attractive woman) who are avoiding the chemistry between them. And, the question would always become, are Oliver and I watching a murder mystery or a romantic movie or a combination of both? And, what happens if they throw in our favorite holiday time of the year for scenic ambiance? What then?
So, needless to say, the same questions came up for me about this book. Only Oliver had nothing to do with this one, it was all me turning the pages. Needing to figure this one out – including whether I was up for it…or not.
Of course I was! It is that time of year, after all! Besides, how could I not resist a forced proximity trope with a little mystery thrown in at Christmastime?
So, what happens when hot hunk Ethan and recently divorced, semi-agoraphobic Maggie, both writers, get invited to spend Christmas with a fan who turns out to be Maggie’s favorite author, Eleanor?
“…I’m not the star of my books. Ultimately my characters have to speak for themselves.”
And, why did Eleanor choose to invite Ethan and Maggie to what has been an annual traditional holiday family gathering only?
“She looked…amused, …with the night. Like they were at the start of one of her favorite scenes and she was trying not to shout spoilers.”
And, while readers are taking in the ambiance of Eleanor’s castle, and all her quirky relatives, and other guests, including a police inspector, why and how did Eleanor suddenly disappear in the midst of a blizzard?
As Ethan encourages everyone to search the home, Maggie can’t help but put her mystery-writing skills to work, including her knowledge of everyone of Eleanor’s books and wonder…
Was she murdered? Is there something sinister going on? If so, why? And, who is behind it?
Or, is this a test/contest – for the mystery authors, who also happen to be invited guests, to solve?
Mostly, did Eleanor have a specific reason that mystery writers and a police inspector should be invited to her family dinner?
With twists and turns, and delicious Agatha Christie flair, this page-turner will keep readers on their toes to the very last page.
So, it wouldn’t be surprising for any reader to just want to follow along with the romantic trope, and the mystery, wondering as well, what will make this “the most wonderful crime of the year?” And, will the author throw in a HEA to top off the holiday atmosphere? (No spoilers from me.)
December 15, 2024
2.5ish?? ⭐️
Knives Out but make it Christmas-y! The beginning was fun but as it went on it became more and more unrealistic and I didn’t have it in me to suspend my disbelief as much as the author wanted me to.
If I hear the word “sweetheart” or “who did this to you” one more time in this book it’d be knocked down to 2 stars. Also, what does “if you were mine, I’d fight the whole sky” even mean? Way too insta lovey for me and they literally only hated each other for 2 chapters.
Knives Out but make it Christmas-y! The beginning was fun but as it went on it became more and more unrealistic and I didn’t have it in me to suspend my disbelief as much as the author wanted me to.
If I hear the word “sweetheart” or “who did this to you” one more time in this book it’d be knocked down to 2 stars. Also, what does “if you were mine, I’d fight the whole sky” even mean? Way too insta lovey for me and they literally only hated each other for 2 chapters.
Currently reading
December 14, 2024was getting a little tired of atlas paradox so i picked this joy up🎄🎄
November 12, 2024
Every. Star. In. The. Universe. Or at least the five I'm allowed by GR.
It's the Most Wonderful Book of the Year! Okay, maybe not "The Most", but definitely a top ten read of the year for sure.
This book was an absolute joy, so much that I finished it in record time. I didn’t want to stop to eat. Or sleep. And had to sneak in some listens while I worked. It was that addictive.
I bounced between the Kindle and audio versions and I have to say, because the writing is so cinematic, I think I like the audio version best. It was so well narrated and the audio really captures the tone and texture of the writing. Also, listening to the taped police interview snippets, which are peppered throughout the novel, only adds to that cinematic feel.
Now, I'm a sucker for a slow burn romance and this novel delivers in all the best ways. These characters quickly drew me in and from the moment they appear on the page, I was rooting for them. Because Maggie and Ethan were layered, multifaceted characters who were so relatable, it was impossible not to like them immediately. As the story progresses and as the reader is more deeply entrenched in the mystery, the more we learn about Maggie and Ethan individually as well as who they are to one another, and the more vibrant these characters become.
The story itself is like a story within a story, in a sense. Or maybe a mystery inside a mystery as Maggie and Ethan are summoned from NY to England to spend Christmas with the reclusive and prolific mystery writer, Eleanor Ashley, who also happens to be Maggie's literary hero. Also in attendance are Eleanor's eclectic cast of family and friends.
Almost immediately after arriving at her massive estate, Eleanor disappears from inside a locked room. A room which can only be accessed with a key. A key they find inside the locked room.
*GASP*
Maggie, being an Eleanor Ashley superfan and fellow mystery writer, follows a breadcrumb trail of clues, while using passages from Eleanor's novels in conjunction with her current work in progress to unravel the mystery, only to discover that someone has been trying to kill Eleanor for weeks. With great hesitancy, she partners with Ethan to uncover the villain in a household of likely suspects, most of whom have a motive. This is when the love story begins as these two are forced to explore the grounds, the clues, their own secrets and their history as competitors at their publishing house.
To explain my statement above, that this is sort of a story inside a story, is due to the fact that Maggie uses Eleanor’s words, her own stories, both the published and her unpublished WIP, to solve the mystery. It is this latter work which inevitably spells out the reason Eleanor became a target in the first place.
This novel is perfectly paced. It sets off at a nice clip and never once loses momentum. It's also perfectly balanced. It moves seamlessly between the slow building love story and the mystery. Unraveling and exploring each with great care and consideration, always engaging the reader and entangling them in this madcap race to find the answers to the mystery of where Eleanor Ashley has disappeared to and is she still alive before someone else is possibly murdered.
My only criticism really are those ugly sweaters on the cover. Beige? Really?? Given its Christmas theme AND the fact that Christmas sweaters do come up in the actual story, this seems like a missed opportunity. If memory serves, Maggie and Ethan were forced to wear turtle dove sweaters…??
Anyway, I highly, HIGHLY recommend for fans of mysteries or romance, and especially for fans of both.
It's the Most Wonderful Book of the Year! Okay, maybe not "The Most", but definitely a top ten read of the year for sure.
This book was an absolute joy, so much that I finished it in record time. I didn’t want to stop to eat. Or sleep. And had to sneak in some listens while I worked. It was that addictive.
I bounced between the Kindle and audio versions and I have to say, because the writing is so cinematic, I think I like the audio version best. It was so well narrated and the audio really captures the tone and texture of the writing. Also, listening to the taped police interview snippets, which are peppered throughout the novel, only adds to that cinematic feel.
Now, I'm a sucker for a slow burn romance and this novel delivers in all the best ways. These characters quickly drew me in and from the moment they appear on the page, I was rooting for them. Because Maggie and Ethan were layered, multifaceted characters who were so relatable, it was impossible not to like them immediately. As the story progresses and as the reader is more deeply entrenched in the mystery, the more we learn about Maggie and Ethan individually as well as who they are to one another, and the more vibrant these characters become.
The story itself is like a story within a story, in a sense. Or maybe a mystery inside a mystery as Maggie and Ethan are summoned from NY to England to spend Christmas with the reclusive and prolific mystery writer, Eleanor Ashley, who also happens to be Maggie's literary hero. Also in attendance are Eleanor's eclectic cast of family and friends.
Almost immediately after arriving at her massive estate, Eleanor disappears from inside a locked room. A room which can only be accessed with a key. A key they find inside the locked room.
*GASP*
Maggie, being an Eleanor Ashley superfan and fellow mystery writer, follows a breadcrumb trail of clues, while using passages from Eleanor's novels in conjunction with her current work in progress to unravel the mystery, only to discover that someone has been trying to kill Eleanor for weeks. With great hesitancy, she partners with Ethan to uncover the villain in a household of likely suspects, most of whom have a motive. This is when the love story begins as these two are forced to explore the grounds, the clues, their own secrets and their history as competitors at their publishing house.
To explain my statement above, that this is sort of a story inside a story, is due to the fact that Maggie uses Eleanor’s words, her own stories, both the published and her unpublished WIP, to solve the mystery. It is this latter work which inevitably spells out the reason Eleanor became a target in the first place.
This novel is perfectly paced. It sets off at a nice clip and never once loses momentum. It's also perfectly balanced. It moves seamlessly between the slow building love story and the mystery. Unraveling and exploring each with great care and consideration, always engaging the reader and entangling them in this madcap race to find the answers to the mystery of where Eleanor Ashley has disappeared to and is she still alive before someone else is possibly murdered.
My only criticism really are those ugly sweaters on the cover. Beige? Really?? Given its Christmas theme AND the fact that Christmas sweaters do come up in the actual story, this seems like a missed opportunity. If memory serves, Maggie and Ethan were forced to wear turtle dove sweaters…??
Anyway, I highly, HIGHLY recommend for fans of mysteries or romance, and especially for fans of both.
December 10, 2024
3.5
romance navideño con misterio? yes, pleaseeeee.
honestamente, pensé que me iba a gustar más, pero ETHAN THE MAN THAT YOU ARE.
romance navideño con misterio? yes, pleaseeeee.
honestamente, pensé que me iba a gustar más, pero ETHAN THE MAN THAT YOU ARE.
December 2, 2024
4 stars, a bit slow at the beginning but I really did enjoy this Romance/Mystery mash-up, And I do see a good "Knives Out" resemblance, though I also thought there was a bit too much back-story between the two MC's, especially Maggie's baggage. Still, happy with it overall and will keep an eye on this author
November 3, 2024
I felt like I was inside a holiday episode of scooby-doo, but instead of the usual gang solving the mystery, it was with a hot rival 🔥
First of all, I’m usually iffy about holiday books because sometimes they go OVERBOARD, but this one had the perfect balance! The holiday elements were sprinkled in just about right, and the fact that everyone got stuck inside a manor a few days before Christmas was perfect (not too much, not too little 🎄❄️)
quick summary: two writers who are rivals get invited to spend Christmas with a famous mystery writer. Maggie Chase is thrilled because this author is her favorite... but guess who isn't her favorite? Ethan Wyatt, who she despises (he even calls her "Marcie," which isn't her name smh). After the first night, a winter storm hits and Eleanor goes missing. Who better to trust than two writers who make a living solving mysteries in their novels? 🔍
I’m not usually a big mystery gal myself, but this book was full of fast-paced scenes, tension, and a lovely subplot of romance between the two characters 😍 I also really liked how the clues and twists were introduced which btw I totally didn’t solve the mystery 🕵️♀️ 😂 I was blindsided tbh hahah!
The romance definitely felt like a subplot since they’re busy trying to solve the mystery, but it was the perfect balance to keep me reading nonstop! If you love mystery and the whole "someone is trying to kill me let's solve this murder" this book is THE PERFECT holiday book for you!
Thank you Netgalley and Avon books for giving me this eARC in exchange for my honest review!
⋆. ݁₊ ⊹ . ݁˖ . ݁. ݁₊ ⊹ . ݁˖ . ݁⋆.⋆. ݁₊ ⊹ . ݁˖ . ݁. ݁₊ ⊹ . ݁˖ . ݁⋆.
𝗽𝗿𝗲-𝗿𝗲𝗮𝗱 ꪆৎ ˚⋅ ik is not Christmas but if the release date is in September is it truly a holiday book 🤷♀️
First of all, I’m usually iffy about holiday books because sometimes they go OVERBOARD, but this one had the perfect balance! The holiday elements were sprinkled in just about right, and the fact that everyone got stuck inside a manor a few days before Christmas was perfect (not too much, not too little 🎄❄️)
quick summary: two writers who are rivals get invited to spend Christmas with a famous mystery writer. Maggie Chase is thrilled because this author is her favorite... but guess who isn't her favorite? Ethan Wyatt, who she despises (he even calls her "Marcie," which isn't her name smh). After the first night, a winter storm hits and Eleanor goes missing. Who better to trust than two writers who make a living solving mysteries in their novels? 🔍
I’m not usually a big mystery gal myself, but this book was full of fast-paced scenes, tension, and a lovely subplot of romance between the two characters 😍 I also really liked how the clues and twists were introduced which btw I totally didn’t solve the mystery 🕵️♀️ 😂 I was blindsided tbh hahah!
The romance definitely felt like a subplot since they’re busy trying to solve the mystery, but it was the perfect balance to keep me reading nonstop! If you love mystery and the whole "someone is trying to kill me let's solve this murder" this book is THE PERFECT holiday book for you!
Thank you Netgalley and Avon books for giving me this eARC in exchange for my honest review!
⋆. ݁₊ ⊹ . ݁˖ . ݁. ݁₊ ⊹ . ݁˖ . ݁⋆.⋆. ݁₊ ⊹ . ݁˖ . ݁. ݁₊ ⊹ . ݁˖ . ݁⋆.
𝗽𝗿𝗲-𝗿𝗲𝗮𝗱 ꪆৎ ˚⋅ ik is not Christmas but if the release date is in September is it truly a holiday book 🤷♀️
December 11, 2024
2.5 stars! Oooo yeah this was not for me unfortunately. Starting with the positives, the whodunnit element was enjoyable. I liked the secluded mansion/snowed in vibes, as well as the pacing of the mystery aspect. And I didn't see the plot twist coming.
Though the characters' chemistry was severely lacking. They're supposed to be rival-ish authors/enemies to lovers...but there's no build-up, banter, tension, etc. None of those classic enemies to lovers tropes that makes enemies to lovers what it is. We as the readers are essentially just told that they're enemies, and we have to accept it. Somehow it was slow burn but also insta love to the max. The romance was not well written, and I didn't like the the FMC. If only the romance could've been on par with the mystery part!
Though the characters' chemistry was severely lacking. They're supposed to be rival-ish authors/enemies to lovers...but there's no build-up, banter, tension, etc. None of those classic enemies to lovers tropes that makes enemies to lovers what it is. We as the readers are essentially just told that they're enemies, and we have to accept it. Somehow it was slow burn but also insta love to the max. The romance was not well written, and I didn't like the the FMC. If only the romance could've been on par with the mystery part!
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December 9, 2024Review coming next year lol
December 16, 2024
SOOOO much fun!!⭐️🎄 I ate this up in 24 hours, if you’re looking for a quick, easy, and entertaining christmas read this is perfect. Rivals to lovers, cozy mystery, fun christmas setting, it really had it all 🫶🏻 both of the main characters were very likeable for me as well :) didn’t change my life but checked off the boxes of what I want in a holiday book.
Edit: if u can listen to the audiobook 20/10 recommend! the dual narration and variation in storytelling was really highlighted.
Edit: if u can listen to the audiobook 20/10 recommend! the dual narration and variation in storytelling was really highlighted.
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