Nutcracker Nightmare

  I enjoyed the first book in the Killer Chocolate Mysteries series, A Christmas Candy Killing, by Christina Romeril, so when I came across A Nutcracker Nightmare, I wanted to revisit Harrison, MT.

This series follows twin sisters Alex and Hanna, who own Murder and Mayhem, a book and chocolate shop. Alex is the primary sleuth, but Hanna is her support system. And in the case of A Nutcracker Nightmare, Hanna is also a suspect. Alex jumps in with both feet to prove her sister isn't a murderer.

Alex and Hanna are easy to relate to. They're older characters, both divorced and dipping their toes into the dating pool. They own a small business in an equally small town, where they are relatively newcomers. I enjoy the interactions between the sisters and am rooting for each of them to find true love.

On to the mystery, I had strong suspicions about who was the murderer pretty early on. I just didn't figure out the motive. The story started slowly, and several characters were introduced. I often had to stop and try to remember who was who. But in the end, I found the mystery satisfying and well put together.

A Nutcracker Nightmare is a solid Christmas cozy mystery. There was good character and relationship development, along with a well-rounded mystery. But if you like cozy mysteries set around the holidays, give this one a try.