Mistletoe and Murder

Book Review: Mistletoe and Murder by Connie Berry

⭐⭐⭐⭐/5 Stars

Connie Berry's novella, Mistletoe and Murder, offers readers a charming and engaging festive mystery. With its beautifully designed cover, this book immediately captures the holiday spirit. The well-written narrative, fast-paced plot, and likable characters make it a delightful read for fans of cozy mysteries. Set in a charming town during the Christmas season, this novella combines elements of love, friendship, and suspense to create an entertaining tale.

In Mistletoe and Murder, American antiques dealer Kate Hamilton finds herself facing unexpected obstacles just days before her wedding to Detective Inspector Tom Mallory. Her friend Sheila seeks Kate's assistance in helping her fiancé, Carl Curtis, who is trapped in Venezuela due to a passport issue. Sheila plans to sell her grandfather's valuable coin collection to raise the funds required to release Carl. However, when a break-in occurs at Sheila's house, it becomes evident that there may be more at stake than just money.

As Kate juggles the challenges of wedding preparations and dealing with a fire that threatens her dress, a mysterious body is discovered nearby. The clock is ticking as Kate races against time to uncover the truth about Sheila's disappearance and the connection to the town's recent death. With the help of her resourcefulness and determination, she must piece together the clues before her own wedding is jeopardized.

Mistletoe and Murder is a thoroughly enjoyable novella that successfully captures the essence of a cozy Christmas mystery. The writing style is engaging, allowing readers to easily become immersed in the story. The mystery is well-plotted and keeps readers guessing until the final pages. Each chapter is infused with an element of suspense that keeps the pace lively and the pages turning.

The setting of the story, a charming Suffolk village during the Christmas season, adds an extra layer of warmth and festivity to the narrative. As does the history of the mysterious gold coin and its' Queen Victoria connection.

One of the novella's strengths lies in its likable characters. Kate Hamilton is a relatable protagonist whose determination and resourcefulness make her an endearing lead. The supporting cast is equally well-developed, each adding their own unique charm to the story. The relationships between the characters are authentic and provide depth to the narrative, making readers emotionally invested in their outcomes.

In conclusion, Mistletoe and Murder is a fantastic cozy Christmas mystery that will captivate readers from start to finish. Its festive setting, well-plotted mystery, and likable characters make it a perfect holiday read. Whether you are a fan of cozy mysteries or simply looking for an engaging and heartwarming story, Connie Berry's novella will not disappoint. Grab a cup of hot cocoa and curl up by the fire for a delightful reading experience this holiday season.

⚠️This review was written based on personal opinions and experiences with the book. Individual preferences may vary⚠️