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Sam Shovel Mysteries #1
Death of a Christmas Tree Salesman
"Patricia Meredith's recipe for a perfect Christmas mystery? Magic with a dash of murder."—Jess Brady, Bookstagram Reviewer
Sam Shovel only comes to life for twelve days a year at Christmastime, and this year, he’s in time to solve a murder mystery at the North Pole. O. Tannenbaum—the world’s largest supplier of Christmas trees—has been murdered, and although Nick and Nora Claus are too busy to solve the mystery, Sam has enough time on his branchy hands to take a stab at it.
The North Pole is full of suspects, from the owners of the neighboring candy cane farm to Santa himself! But which Santa? Is it Nick Claus, Père Noël, Sinterklaas, Ded Moroz, der Weihnachtsmann, Sheng dan Lao ren, Baba Noël, or someone else entirely?
Woven with enough Christmas references to choke a reindeer, find out if Sam succeeds in catching the killer in Death of a Christmas Tree Salesman.
A fantastical Christmas cozy mystery perfect for enjoying with a cup of hot cocoa and a cookie any time of year!
“I see Sam Shovel right up there with Frosty and Rudolph—he’ll go down in history!” — Kathy Buckmaster
"A brilliant, thought-provoking look into the world of the North Pole, with a take on Santa Claus that you’ve never seen!” — Noelle Austin
Sam Shovel only comes to life for twelve days a year at Christmastime, and this year, he’s in time to solve a murder mystery at the North Pole. O. Tannenbaum—the world’s largest supplier of Christmas trees—has been murdered, and although Nick and Nora Claus are too busy to solve the mystery, Sam has enough time on his branchy hands to take a stab at it.
The North Pole is full of suspects, from the owners of the neighboring candy cane farm to Santa himself! But which Santa? Is it Nick Claus, Père Noël, Sinterklaas, Ded Moroz, der Weihnachtsmann, Sheng dan Lao ren, Baba Noël, or someone else entirely?
Woven with enough Christmas references to choke a reindeer, find out if Sam succeeds in catching the killer in Death of a Christmas Tree Salesman.
A fantastical Christmas cozy mystery perfect for enjoying with a cup of hot cocoa and a cookie any time of year!
“I see Sam Shovel right up there with Frosty and Rudolph—he’ll go down in history!” — Kathy Buckmaster
"A brilliant, thought-provoking look into the world of the North Pole, with a take on Santa Claus that you’ve never seen!” — Noelle Austin
238 pages, Hardcover
Published November 13, 2023
7 people are currently reading
116 people want to read
About the author
Patricia Meredith
13 books94 followerslinktr.ee/pmeredithauthor
Patricia Meredith is an author of historical and cozy mysteries. When she’s not writing, she’s playing board games with her husband, creating imaginary worlds with her two children, or out in the garden reading a good book with a cup of tea. Patricia's first series, the Spokane Clock Tower Mysteries, is the product of uncovering fascinating local history circa 1901, making it the first historical mystery series set in Spokane, Washington. Her second series about Anna Katharine Green is the first and only historical fiction featuring the Mother of Detective Fiction. Her mysteries are clean, cozy reads known for their quirky yet believable characters.
Before taking the dive into mystery, Patricia Meredith was the fiction editor of over 20 novels and miscellaneous publications, working with magazines, businesses, and publishers on a variety of projects from art books (such as The Art of George R.R. Martin’s A Song of Ice and Fire) to fantasy novels (such as Rising Sun, Falling Shadows, winner of the 2013 Scribe Award for Best Original Novel). Her specialty is science-fiction and fantasy novels. She has worked with such names as George R.R. Martin, Tracy Hickman, and Graham McNeill. She launched the novel department for Fantasy Flight Games, so she also has experience in the behind-the-scenes of publication.
Patricia Meredith is an author of historical and cozy mysteries. When she’s not writing, she’s playing board games with her husband, creating imaginary worlds with her two children, or out in the garden reading a good book with a cup of tea. Patricia's first series, the Spokane Clock Tower Mysteries, is the product of uncovering fascinating local history circa 1901, making it the first historical mystery series set in Spokane, Washington. Her second series about Anna Katharine Green is the first and only historical fiction featuring the Mother of Detective Fiction. Her mysteries are clean, cozy reads known for their quirky yet believable characters.
Before taking the dive into mystery, Patricia Meredith was the fiction editor of over 20 novels and miscellaneous publications, working with magazines, businesses, and publishers on a variety of projects from art books (such as The Art of George R.R. Martin’s A Song of Ice and Fire) to fantasy novels (such as Rising Sun, Falling Shadows, winner of the 2013 Scribe Award for Best Original Novel). Her specialty is science-fiction and fantasy novels. She has worked with such names as George R.R. Martin, Tracy Hickman, and Graham McNeill. She launched the novel department for Fantasy Flight Games, so she also has experience in the behind-the-scenes of publication.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews
December 2, 2023
4.5 stars (rounded up)
Well, who knew that a murder mystery could be this cosy, charming, and cheerful?! Full of cold snowy landscapes, delicious seasonal treats, and nostalgic Christmas traditions from all over the world, Death of a Christmas Tree Salesman is the perfect story to get you into the Christmas spirit!
The most wonderful time of the year is fast approaching, which means that snowman Sam Shovel has come alive again for twelve short but festive days at the North Pole. However, with the recent mysterious death of the world’s largest Christmas tree supplier, things are not as jolly as they should be. The various santa’s from all across the world have met up for their annual meeting, but as they are obviously way too busy with preparing for all the festivities, it’s left to Sam to investigate and solve the mystery.
Right from the very first page, this story just enchanted me and filled me with wonder. The magical setting of the North Pole just came to life before my eyes, and I absolutely loved meeting all the different versions of Santa from all across the world.
Learning about all the Christmas traditions from so many different countries/cultures was so much fun, and I (selfishly) really enjoyed seeing how authentically the Dutch Sinterklaas was depicted. As with all of Patricia Meredith’s books, it’s evident how much time, care, and passion she has poured into her research, and that just gives her works so much heart!
Speaking of heart, these characters are just unacceptably endearing and will undoubtedly melt even the coldest of hearts. And I have to say, for a snowman who is only alive for twelve days a year and can barely recall his past lives, Sam is an astonishingly compelling protagonist. He is quite a competent investigator, and I loved the sort of ‘Holmes & Watson’ dynamic between him and his slightly chaotic companion. What’s more, seeing him interact with and interrogate all the vibrant and quirky characters at the North Pole brought me so much joy, as each of them is just slightly more hysterical than the next.
I also really loved how the tension and suspense steadily increased as we worked our way down the suspect list together with Sam, and seeing all the puzzle pieces of the mystery slowly starting to fall into place. Every single thread of the story is so masterfully woven together in the end, and looking back you can see that all the breadcrumbs (or maybe Christmas cookie crumbs?) were there all along.
And now, if you really want to go for the full immersive experience, I highly recommend listening to the audiobook narrated by the wonderful Andrew D. Meredith. He completely captures the spirit of the story and just brings these characters to life with all his distinct voices. I devoured this book in one morning because I was so fully entranced by his narration. It’s almost like listening to a full-cast production, what a performance!
Safe to say, this story was a true homerun and Patricia Meredith has done it again! This is her most magical work yet, and I think any reader, no matter their age or reading preferences, should treat themselves to this wonderful story! Utterly charming, darkly mysterious, and delightfully entertaining, Death of a Christmas Tree Salesman is the festive cosy mystery of your dreams!
Well, who knew that a murder mystery could be this cosy, charming, and cheerful?! Full of cold snowy landscapes, delicious seasonal treats, and nostalgic Christmas traditions from all over the world, Death of a Christmas Tree Salesman is the perfect story to get you into the Christmas spirit!
The most wonderful time of the year is fast approaching, which means that snowman Sam Shovel has come alive again for twelve short but festive days at the North Pole. However, with the recent mysterious death of the world’s largest Christmas tree supplier, things are not as jolly as they should be. The various santa’s from all across the world have met up for their annual meeting, but as they are obviously way too busy with preparing for all the festivities, it’s left to Sam to investigate and solve the mystery.
Right from the very first page, this story just enchanted me and filled me with wonder. The magical setting of the North Pole just came to life before my eyes, and I absolutely loved meeting all the different versions of Santa from all across the world.
Learning about all the Christmas traditions from so many different countries/cultures was so much fun, and I (selfishly) really enjoyed seeing how authentically the Dutch Sinterklaas was depicted. As with all of Patricia Meredith’s books, it’s evident how much time, care, and passion she has poured into her research, and that just gives her works so much heart!
Speaking of heart, these characters are just unacceptably endearing and will undoubtedly melt even the coldest of hearts. And I have to say, for a snowman who is only alive for twelve days a year and can barely recall his past lives, Sam is an astonishingly compelling protagonist. He is quite a competent investigator, and I loved the sort of ‘Holmes & Watson’ dynamic between him and his slightly chaotic companion. What’s more, seeing him interact with and interrogate all the vibrant and quirky characters at the North Pole brought me so much joy, as each of them is just slightly more hysterical than the next.
I also really loved how the tension and suspense steadily increased as we worked our way down the suspect list together with Sam, and seeing all the puzzle pieces of the mystery slowly starting to fall into place. Every single thread of the story is so masterfully woven together in the end, and looking back you can see that all the breadcrumbs (or maybe Christmas cookie crumbs?) were there all along.
And now, if you really want to go for the full immersive experience, I highly recommend listening to the audiobook narrated by the wonderful Andrew D. Meredith. He completely captures the spirit of the story and just brings these characters to life with all his distinct voices. I devoured this book in one morning because I was so fully entranced by his narration. It’s almost like listening to a full-cast production, what a performance!
Safe to say, this story was a true homerun and Patricia Meredith has done it again! This is her most magical work yet, and I think any reader, no matter their age or reading preferences, should treat themselves to this wonderful story! Utterly charming, darkly mysterious, and delightfully entertaining, Death of a Christmas Tree Salesman is the festive cosy mystery of your dreams!
December 27, 2024
4.5⭐️
One of the best Christmas books I’ve ever read! You have the Christmas charm with every character being a stereotypical Christmas character (think snowman, Santa, gingerbread man, sugarplum fairy etc) mixed with a legit murder mystery crime to solve!
Loved this from start to finish! Will most likely reread it next Christmas!
Can’t wait for more in this series!!
The negative: it’s in first person
One of the best Christmas books I’ve ever read! You have the Christmas charm with every character being a stereotypical Christmas character (think snowman, Santa, gingerbread man, sugarplum fairy etc) mixed with a legit murder mystery crime to solve!
Loved this from start to finish! Will most likely reread it next Christmas!
Can’t wait for more in this series!!
The negative: it’s in first person
December 1, 2023
I LOVED this! It was so much fun. It's a Christmas mystery set in the north pole, and It feels like a mixture of Shrek, Rudolph, and a crime noir, which might seem weird, but it really works. There are tons of lines from Christmas movies and songs, and I had a blast trying to catch them all. It also has lots of references on how Christmas is celebrated in other countries, which I found really interesting. The characters were so funny, I actually laughed out loud multiple times. I listened to this on Scribd and the narration is perfect!
February 21, 2024
A WONDERFUL Christmas mystery! Patricia Meredith has done it again.
October 7, 2023
4.75 stars!
Well this was the most adorable story! Which is weird to say about a murder mystery but it’s true! Sam Shovel is a snowman, that’s right a snowman, who is investigating a murder that has taken place at the North Pole. The Christmas Tree Salesman has been murdered. Sam goes around questioning everyone. We have all kinds of fun Christmas characters: nutcracker, sugar plum fairy, gnomes, gingerbread man, and even Santa ( and other Santas from around the world). I really enjoyed this story. I loved how many Christmas puns there were. I also liked how much the author included about different Santas around the world and their countries Christmas traditions. If you love cozy mysteries with big Christmas spirit this is the book for you! Wonderfully written and a joy to read! I definitely recommend!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.75
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
Well this was the most adorable story! Which is weird to say about a murder mystery but it’s true! Sam Shovel is a snowman, that’s right a snowman, who is investigating a murder that has taken place at the North Pole. The Christmas Tree Salesman has been murdered. Sam goes around questioning everyone. We have all kinds of fun Christmas characters: nutcracker, sugar plum fairy, gnomes, gingerbread man, and even Santa ( and other Santas from around the world). I really enjoyed this story. I loved how many Christmas puns there were. I also liked how much the author included about different Santas around the world and their countries Christmas traditions. If you love cozy mysteries with big Christmas spirit this is the book for you! Wonderfully written and a joy to read! I definitely recommend!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.75
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
January 4, 2024
I absolutely love the title. It might be a top three book title ever. And the red of the cover is great too, so I knew I needed to read it right away this holiday season.
I read this across day 4 and 5 of Covid, in a kind of semi-fugue state, and I think it kind of struck me that the author must have been in something similar to have thought this sucker up…
…joking aside, this is an incredibly clever idea that’s whimsical, fantastical, and original.
It has so many references that I was constantly highlighting and rereading snippets. Perhaps you’ll understand the one below, which was my favorite: “…loose newell post, or cleaning up after the fried cat under the armchair in the lobby, or fixing the furnace, or...” it was like reading one giant Christmas reference and I absolutely loved it. It made the North Pole seem like fantasy, but with references to known culture, pulling it back down towards magical realism at the same time.
With that said, this is a murder mystery! Sam Shovel is a snowman that comes to life every year for the twelve days of Christmas at the North Pole. Not only does he have a knack for detecting, but his corncob pipe biting, fedora wearing antics felt very noir crime novel without his personality being the usual grit.
The author’s knowledge of Christmas, and the actual past history of it, is clearly on display through various characters and traditions. And it was so interesting to see the murder mystery (the murder of O. Tannenbaum) intertwine with them.
The character’s names, all references of their own, should honestly earn the author some kind of award. The book is silly but serious the entire time, and I laughed more than once.
I’m really not sure how, but this is somehow like a warm blanket, a cup of warm coco, and a hug. All while investigating murder. It’s cozy, and feels kind of safe even though it’s mysterious at the same time. It also didn’t read as ‘cozy’ in the kind of corny sense that has begun to be associated with the term. I cannot stress enough how enjoyable this was. Personally a 5/5*. This is a first for me from the author, but with a Hercule Poirot reference, it certainly won’t be the last.
https://fanfiaddict.com/review-death-...
I read this across day 4 and 5 of Covid, in a kind of semi-fugue state, and I think it kind of struck me that the author must have been in something similar to have thought this sucker up…
…joking aside, this is an incredibly clever idea that’s whimsical, fantastical, and original.
It has so many references that I was constantly highlighting and rereading snippets. Perhaps you’ll understand the one below, which was my favorite: “…loose newell post, or cleaning up after the fried cat under the armchair in the lobby, or fixing the furnace, or...” it was like reading one giant Christmas reference and I absolutely loved it. It made the North Pole seem like fantasy, but with references to known culture, pulling it back down towards magical realism at the same time.
With that said, this is a murder mystery! Sam Shovel is a snowman that comes to life every year for the twelve days of Christmas at the North Pole. Not only does he have a knack for detecting, but his corncob pipe biting, fedora wearing antics felt very noir crime novel without his personality being the usual grit.
The author’s knowledge of Christmas, and the actual past history of it, is clearly on display through various characters and traditions. And it was so interesting to see the murder mystery (the murder of O. Tannenbaum) intertwine with them.
The character’s names, all references of their own, should honestly earn the author some kind of award. The book is silly but serious the entire time, and I laughed more than once.
I’m really not sure how, but this is somehow like a warm blanket, a cup of warm coco, and a hug. All while investigating murder. It’s cozy, and feels kind of safe even though it’s mysterious at the same time. It also didn’t read as ‘cozy’ in the kind of corny sense that has begun to be associated with the term. I cannot stress enough how enjoyable this was. Personally a 5/5*. This is a first for me from the author, but with a Hercule Poirot reference, it certainly won’t be the last.
https://fanfiaddict.com/review-death-...
November 12, 2023
4/5 Stars
I received an eARC from the author in exchange for an honest review.
Charming, mysterious, and full of wonder. Death of a Christmas Tree Salesman captures the Christmas spirit with a dash of murder.
Throughout the story we follow Sam Shovel, a snowman living in the North Pole. Coming to life for twelve days every year at Christmastime, Sam’s memory can be a little slushy on his previous lives. This year however, he’s been tasked with solving the murder of O. Tannenbaum, the world’s largest Christmas tree supplier.
Following Sam on his investigative efforts was an absolute delight. I found his character to be endearing, and even though he only has twelve days to solve the case he’s given satisfying developments. The side cast was also diverse and added great intrigue to the mystery. Even the interactions between characters throughout were thoughtfully done, creating slice of life moments and suspense.
From the moment Sam comes to life, we’re met with a plethora of Christmas references, histories, traditions, and foods. Some familiar and others new, this helped me get in the Christmas mood and often made me nostalgic. There were even some Christmas recipes from the book included at the end for holiday baking.
Now, something that surprised me was the balance of magical wonder and suspicion. Having never read a cozy murder mystery before, I wasn’t sure how well the two would mix for me. Especially with a Christmas theme, often related to a joyous time of year. However, I’m pleased to say Patricia Meredith balanced it well and didn’t skimp on a compelling mystery for the sake of a cozy read.
This is filled with sugar plum fairies, cookies, snowy forests, candy canes, and a variety of Santa’s from various traditions around the world.
If you’re looking for a cozy read with fun characters and a murder to solve for the holiday season, this is definitely one out.
I received an eARC from the author in exchange for an honest review.
Charming, mysterious, and full of wonder. Death of a Christmas Tree Salesman captures the Christmas spirit with a dash of murder.
Throughout the story we follow Sam Shovel, a snowman living in the North Pole. Coming to life for twelve days every year at Christmastime, Sam’s memory can be a little slushy on his previous lives. This year however, he’s been tasked with solving the murder of O. Tannenbaum, the world’s largest Christmas tree supplier.
Following Sam on his investigative efforts was an absolute delight. I found his character to be endearing, and even though he only has twelve days to solve the case he’s given satisfying developments. The side cast was also diverse and added great intrigue to the mystery. Even the interactions between characters throughout were thoughtfully done, creating slice of life moments and suspense.
From the moment Sam comes to life, we’re met with a plethora of Christmas references, histories, traditions, and foods. Some familiar and others new, this helped me get in the Christmas mood and often made me nostalgic. There were even some Christmas recipes from the book included at the end for holiday baking.
Now, something that surprised me was the balance of magical wonder and suspicion. Having never read a cozy murder mystery before, I wasn’t sure how well the two would mix for me. Especially with a Christmas theme, often related to a joyous time of year. However, I’m pleased to say Patricia Meredith balanced it well and didn’t skimp on a compelling mystery for the sake of a cozy read.
This is filled with sugar plum fairies, cookies, snowy forests, candy canes, and a variety of Santa’s from various traditions around the world.
If you’re looking for a cozy read with fun characters and a murder to solve for the holiday season, this is definitely one out.
July 11, 2024
Christmas in July? Why not! I originally beta read this book and had a great time, but I decided to do an audio reread, and man, that just pushed my experience even higher, so updating this to 5 stars!
Death of a Christmas has everything you need for the Christmas season (or the middle of summer): a living snowman detective, all kinds of cookies, candies, and international treats, and of course...murder!
We follow Sam Shovel, a snowman who fancies himself a bit of a detective as he wakes for the 12 days of the year he is alive and immediately begins to investigate the mureder of O. Tannenbaum. This book is chock full of great references and puns as well as all kinds of really interesting characters/traditions from various countries many readers may not be aware of.
This has the trademark Patricia Meredith feel with a great mystery, great dialogue, and of course great food, but Andrew Meredith's narration really helps it shine even more (never knew I needed to hear him doing fairy voices in my life but here we are) by making it somehow cheesier in a great way when it's going that route, but also more serious in the serious scenes.
Overall I'm very glad I decided to give this one a listen my second time through, and definitely recommend checking this one out if you want a fun Christmas romp!
Death of a Christmas has everything you need for the Christmas season (or the middle of summer): a living snowman detective, all kinds of cookies, candies, and international treats, and of course...murder!
We follow Sam Shovel, a snowman who fancies himself a bit of a detective as he wakes for the 12 days of the year he is alive and immediately begins to investigate the mureder of O. Tannenbaum. This book is chock full of great references and puns as well as all kinds of really interesting characters/traditions from various countries many readers may not be aware of.
This has the trademark Patricia Meredith feel with a great mystery, great dialogue, and of course great food, but Andrew Meredith's narration really helps it shine even more (never knew I needed to hear him doing fairy voices in my life but here we are) by making it somehow cheesier in a great way when it's going that route, but also more serious in the serious scenes.
Overall I'm very glad I decided to give this one a listen my second time through, and definitely recommend checking this one out if you want a fun Christmas romp!
December 12, 2023
Sprinkled with snow and cinnamon, the Death of a Christmas tree salesman is perfect to get you in the mood for the winter season! I have not read many cozy mysteries (especially not one with a snowman detective as a lead character!), and this book has me hankering for more! I loved all the nods to Christmas movies and songs (and I don’t even like that sort of thing!). I’d love to know if Mrs Claus’s cookies only come in sweet flavours or can you get savoury ones too (mine will probably be buttercream flavoured), regardless I want a whole plate full! Super sweet, with adorable characters, this warmed my little Grinch heart.
December 22, 2023
9/10
This audiobook put the pep in my step during my finals week this last semester. The Meredith’s came together, both with Patricia Meredith’s writing and the hammed up and fun audiobook performance by Andrew D Meredith to make this fun Christmas mystery that I will most definitely be revisiting next Christmas!
This audiobook put the pep in my step during my finals week this last semester. The Meredith’s came together, both with Patricia Meredith’s writing and the hammed up and fun audiobook performance by Andrew D Meredith to make this fun Christmas mystery that I will most definitely be revisiting next Christmas!
December 10, 2025
How fun! I loved the North Pole setting with anthropomorphized, festive characters including a detective snowman, gingerbread man baker, fairy, and more! This was such a cozy, entertaining whodunit and a true explosion of all things Christmas! The holiday references, puns, and quips were innumerable and made for such a fun reading (and listening) experience. I would also highly recommend the audiobook. ☃️🎅🏽🧑🏼🎄🦌🎄❄️
December 21, 2024
Unlike anything else I've ever read. 😂😍 I this one up mainly so I could get to the sequel, but it ended up being so much fun! It was full of puns, movie references, Christmas music lyrics, and worldwide traditions, but it was also an intriguing mystery with some dark twists?!
It felt like I was reading something that is going to become a classic.
It felt like I was reading something that is going to become a classic.
December 11, 2023
Great listen. Both my brother and I enjoyed listening to it. And I didn't guess the culprit. A fun and family friendly read and listen.
December 3, 2024
Let me start by saying that this book is absolutely magical, charming, and so much fun. A true Christmas classic. I personally think it should be made into a movie as well.
I’ve been excited to read this since it came out around the 2023 holidays, and I’m so glad I finally read it.
There are plenty of references to all of our favorite holiday movies and songs. Most especially Rudolph, Frosty, and even Elf. There are even more subtle nods to classic movies like the Thin Man and Casablanca, which I really appreciated. She even has a reformed candlestick taker, which I’m not sure Patricia intended as an Easter egg, but I thought it might be.
Not only was there plenty of cheeky humor, and Christmas references galore, but the method for delivering Christmas presents was really unique and quite clever.
As with her previous book I read, there are holiday recipes for all the food talked about in the book, and you will get very hungry.
This is a must read masterpiece Patricia. You should be very proud.
I’ve been excited to read this since it came out around the 2023 holidays, and I’m so glad I finally read it.
There are plenty of references to all of our favorite holiday movies and songs. Most especially Rudolph, Frosty, and even Elf. There are even more subtle nods to classic movies like the Thin Man and Casablanca, which I really appreciated. She even has a reformed candlestick taker, which I’m not sure Patricia intended as an Easter egg, but I thought it might be.
Not only was there plenty of cheeky humor, and Christmas references galore, but the method for delivering Christmas presents was really unique and quite clever.
As with her previous book I read, there are holiday recipes for all the food talked about in the book, and you will get very hungry.
This is a must read masterpiece Patricia. You should be very proud.
October 17, 2023
This is a pretty jolly book, even though it does involve murders. The main character is a snowman named Sam Shovel, and if that fact combined with the cheeky book title doesn't clue you in to the kind of festive, referential fun this book contains, probably nothing will. References to classic mystery books and characters abound, from Sam Shovel (think of Sam Spade) to Nick and Nora Claus (instead of Nick and Nora Charles). And references to Christmas carols and poems pop up everywhere, as well as innumerable iterations of Santa Claus from around the world.
I absolutely loved how Meredith created a Santa network, with international Santas like Egypt's Baba Noel, Germany's Der Weihnachtsmann, Russia's Ded Moroz, Italy's Babbo Natale, and China's Sheng Dan Lao Ren all being distinct people who work together with Nick Claus to spread Christmas presents and joy around the world. That was so clever, and it created a natural way to include all kinds of different Christmas traditions and treats in the story.
I am not ordinarily a big fan of cozy mysteries, as they can often be too cutesy for my taste. I prefer hard-boiled mysteries where murder is shown to be the abomination it is. BUT I make an exception for Christmas mysteries, which can be as cozy and cute as they please, and still not annoy me. This particular book was such a delicious confection of Christmas-y elements that there was no way I wouldn't enjoy it! In fact, I suspect it's a book I'll reread in Christmastimes to come.
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher. I was not required to provide a review of it, positive or otherwise.
I absolutely loved how Meredith created a Santa network, with international Santas like Egypt's Baba Noel, Germany's Der Weihnachtsmann, Russia's Ded Moroz, Italy's Babbo Natale, and China's Sheng Dan Lao Ren all being distinct people who work together with Nick Claus to spread Christmas presents and joy around the world. That was so clever, and it created a natural way to include all kinds of different Christmas traditions and treats in the story.
I am not ordinarily a big fan of cozy mysteries, as they can often be too cutesy for my taste. I prefer hard-boiled mysteries where murder is shown to be the abomination it is. BUT I make an exception for Christmas mysteries, which can be as cozy and cute as they please, and still not annoy me. This particular book was such a delicious confection of Christmas-y elements that there was no way I wouldn't enjoy it! In fact, I suspect it's a book I'll reread in Christmastimes to come.
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher. I was not required to provide a review of it, positive or otherwise.
October 7, 2023
Patricia Meredith crafts cozy murder mysteries with finesse, and this Christmas-infused story taps on the nostalgia from the old Claymation films.
The North Pole is the global hub of Christmas preparation as the counsel of Santas from every corner of the world come to plan and make decisions ahead of their famous gift-giving activities. But a sudden murder looms behind the twinkling lights...
The first person narrative places us in the surprisingly amiable and warm mind of Sam Shovel. I say surprisingly because he is a snowman. Coming to life for only a few days each year, he has begun keeping track of his previous lives in a little notebook. And this time, when he wakes up, he takes on the task of tracking down the murderer of the Christmas tree salesman.
Sam Shovel is joined by an eclectic Yuletide cast made up of gnomes, fairies, reindeer, elves, Santas... and even a turkey.
There is so much global Christmas lore packed into this story, and with her usual style, Meredith weaves cold-blooded murder into a delightfully cozy world.
I had a really good time with this story. I did guess the answer to the mystery fairly early on in the story, but it didn't necessarily impact my enjoyment. There were a few moments where I felt like there was a lot of worldbuilding information being told through the dialogue, which did slow down the pace of the story.
A definite winner read for anyone looking for that cozy, nostalgic Christmas feel with murder thrown in!
3.5/5
The North Pole is the global hub of Christmas preparation as the counsel of Santas from every corner of the world come to plan and make decisions ahead of their famous gift-giving activities. But a sudden murder looms behind the twinkling lights...
The first person narrative places us in the surprisingly amiable and warm mind of Sam Shovel. I say surprisingly because he is a snowman. Coming to life for only a few days each year, he has begun keeping track of his previous lives in a little notebook. And this time, when he wakes up, he takes on the task of tracking down the murderer of the Christmas tree salesman.
Sam Shovel is joined by an eclectic Yuletide cast made up of gnomes, fairies, reindeer, elves, Santas... and even a turkey.
There is so much global Christmas lore packed into this story, and with her usual style, Meredith weaves cold-blooded murder into a delightfully cozy world.
I had a really good time with this story. I did guess the answer to the mystery fairly early on in the story, but it didn't necessarily impact my enjoyment. There were a few moments where I felt like there was a lot of worldbuilding information being told through the dialogue, which did slow down the pace of the story.
A definite winner read for anyone looking for that cozy, nostalgic Christmas feel with murder thrown in!
3.5/5
December 10, 2023
Loved it! This was such a fun read full of wit and humor great characters and Christmas lore. Pure entertainment, I can't recommend it enough.
November 26, 2023
This is the most fun Christmas read I've ever read! As you read it, I dare you not to see it all taking place in claymation in your mind haha! As is typical for the author Patricia Meredith, her research is deep even for this cozy mystery. The details about Santas from different countries is so interesting. I learned a lot about how Christmas is celebrated in various cultures. There are even recipes at the back of the book -- can't wait to try them :o) The bonus is all the quotes from Christmas movies that are so fun to catch. And of course it's a great mystery as well! Great Christmas gift for the cozy mystery readers you love!
October 3, 2023
This was an absolutely charming and unique Christmas story. I really enjoyed the world building of this particular Christmas-land! I really appreciated all research and attention to detail of different Christmas traditions and foods from all around the world and how they were brought together. There was such an interesting mix of of characters and I particularly enjoyed Sam and his slushy brain and he pieces things together after a year and then goes on to work out whodunnit. The mystery kept me guessing all the way. I hope to see Sam back again next year.
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January 6, 2026Thank you, dear Readers, for joining me on a journey to the north pole this Christmas! If you enjoyed the book, would you do me the honor of writing a review to let others know? Be sure to add the sequel to your TBR, as well, as it releases Dec 2, 2024! You can learn more about me and my writing at Patricia-Meredith.com and subscribe to my YouTube channel @PMeredithAuthor. Thank you!
December 2, 2024
I didn’t expect to love this as much as I did but hey, I love this so much
The ending made me depressed 🥹I want the second one to be out in Spotify already.. I hope this is the beginning to a long series!
So this is so unhinged. The part when someone threw a snowball at Sam and he was knocked into a snow bank.. and he couldn’t find his body💀💀the part when he was surrounded by hungry reindeer and he said “I might’ve chosen the wrong nose wear to talk to Santa’s deer..” or something like that💀the way they wanted to eat his carrot nose😭ALSO THE PART WHERE CURTIS BIT THE HEAD OFF THE GINGERBREAD COOKIE IN FROMT OF THE GINGERBREAD MAN AND MERRY FLINCHED😭
Sinterklaas💀💀 I’m sorry that’s such an iconic name for good ol Saint Nick from Germany
I didn’t see the plot twist coming.. or the SUICIDE?? Man. Crazy
This is so cute and funny and so unserious for like 50%💀what a cute and easy read!
The ending made me depressed 🥹I want the second one to be out in Spotify already.. I hope this is the beginning to a long series!
So this is so unhinged. The part when someone threw a snowball at Sam and he was knocked into a snow bank.. and he couldn’t find his body💀💀the part when he was surrounded by hungry reindeer and he said “I might’ve chosen the wrong nose wear to talk to Santa’s deer..” or something like that💀the way they wanted to eat his carrot nose😭ALSO THE PART WHERE CURTIS BIT THE HEAD OFF THE GINGERBREAD COOKIE IN FROMT OF THE GINGERBREAD MAN AND MERRY FLINCHED😭
Sinterklaas💀💀 I’m sorry that’s such an iconic name for good ol Saint Nick from Germany
I didn’t see the plot twist coming.. or the SUICIDE?? Man. Crazy
This is so cute and funny and so unserious for like 50%💀what a cute and easy read!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 15, 2023
This was fun, with a lot of great Christmas and pop culture references, and I enjoyed it. I'm not really a big mystery or detective novel guy, so that may be why I can't see this being a Christmas classic for me, but I'm glad I listened to it. Also, the narrator, Andrew D. Meredith did a fantastic job.
December 20, 2024
I listened to this one via spotify audiobooks because I’m desperate to hit my goal for the month and boy oh boy, I had a blast. The narrator did voices for all the characters and so I was fully immersed in these North Pole shenanigans and LOVING it.
Will say, this book definitely leans into the cliches and the full-cheese factor, but I just finished In Five Years and I needed this so badly.
Will say, this book definitely leans into the cliches and the full-cheese factor, but I just finished In Five Years and I needed this so badly.
January 20, 2024
I thoroughly enjoyed this fun mystery. Sam Shovel is a snowman at the North Pole, and this Christmas, he is determined to find out who killed O. Tannenbaum. Yes, the book is also filled with Christmas puns, songs, references, and historical facts. Definitely a fun read in the Christmas season.
December 11, 2023
What a cute story and all the characters were great in the audiobook!
December 7, 2023
Super cute, quirky cozy mystery! ⛄️
November 22, 2023
Extremely fun read! This story follows a detective snowman who tries to solve a murder at the North Pole. I loved the fun characters and the many references and moments of holiday cheer. Really fun read for anyone!
December 13, 2023
If a murder mystery could be adorable, this author definitely found the recipe!
December 29, 2023
What a delicious, wonderful, scrumptuous story. As we follow snowman Sam Shovel in sloving the murder of the Christmas Tree Salesman we get a deep dive into all kinds of christmas traditions. We meet many wonderful figures from the lore surrounding the christmas days from many different cultures. And we are swept away with an avalanche of Christmas puns and references to christmas movies and songs.
It's an easy cosy read that evokes many of the warm feelings of christmas, while at the same time providing you with a fun puzzle, that can be solved before the reveal. And it's so humorous, I kept giggling and laughing.
Now I still have to playfully address a few minor historical inaccuracies (one minor, one bigger). To be clear, I highly respect the amount of research Meredith has clearly done for such a short novel, so no gripes here at all. Furthermore, what I'm addressing does not detract from the story at all, but well, something about feeling the compulsive duty to always correct misinformation for whoever is interested.
First, the minor thing I have to correct, being a Dutch person myself, is that at no point do we set out the 'pepernoten' for 'Sinterklaas'. His Piets and himself give them to the children (at a series of occasions really). We just provide fruit or vegetables and some water for his horse.
Second, more cultural appropriationately (read with playful smirk tone), like many contemporary media this book positions Christmas and santa as being an American thing that then spread around the world, so there had to be all kinds of local helper santa's to be hired. And it is a common story beat. Brilliant Americans create a commercial success and the rest of the world adores it. However, let's be fair. It is the other way around.
The US is a country founded by Europeans. Historical evidence points in the direction that Sinterklaas as a figure was explicitly imported to the US and the his characteristics were mixed with the British Father Christmas. Then the elves were added from Scandinavian folklore and Mrs. Claus was added locally (at least that's what my small deep dive brought up). It's not American export, it's import from Europe, where many of these traditions existed before the US existed. Anyway, it by no means affects the story, which is wonderful. And I believe Meredith is clearly aware of connections but als seperateness between all these traditions, so it is probably as much a device to make the story work than meant as historically accurate. Still let's not pretend that the US is the center of the universe in everything.
With that historical rant being over. Do read this book. It is so much fun!
It's an easy cosy read that evokes many of the warm feelings of christmas, while at the same time providing you with a fun puzzle, that can be solved before the reveal. And it's so humorous, I kept giggling and laughing.
Now I still have to playfully address a few minor historical inaccuracies (one minor, one bigger). To be clear, I highly respect the amount of research Meredith has clearly done for such a short novel, so no gripes here at all. Furthermore, what I'm addressing does not detract from the story at all, but well, something about feeling the compulsive duty to always correct misinformation for whoever is interested.
First, the minor thing I have to correct, being a Dutch person myself, is that at no point do we set out the 'pepernoten' for 'Sinterklaas'. His Piets and himself give them to the children (at a series of occasions really). We just provide fruit or vegetables and some water for his horse.
Second, more cultural appropriationately (read with playful smirk tone), like many contemporary media this book positions Christmas and santa as being an American thing that then spread around the world, so there had to be all kinds of local helper santa's to be hired. And it is a common story beat. Brilliant Americans create a commercial success and the rest of the world adores it. However, let's be fair. It is the other way around.
The US is a country founded by Europeans. Historical evidence points in the direction that Sinterklaas as a figure was explicitly imported to the US and the his characteristics were mixed with the British Father Christmas. Then the elves were added from Scandinavian folklore and Mrs. Claus was added locally (at least that's what my small deep dive brought up). It's not American export, it's import from Europe, where many of these traditions existed before the US existed. Anyway, it by no means affects the story, which is wonderful. And I believe Meredith is clearly aware of connections but als seperateness between all these traditions, so it is probably as much a device to make the story work than meant as historically accurate. Still let's not pretend that the US is the center of the universe in everything.
With that historical rant being over. Do read this book. It is so much fun!
December 25, 2023
In „Death of a Christmas Tree Salesman“ by Patricia Meredith we follow the snowman Sam Shovel on his endeavor to solve the murder of the christmas tree salesman O.Tannenbaum on the North Pole.
This book was so full of great characters and christmas cheer! I absolutely adored it!
It has a great cozy mystery in a perfect christmas setting. The description of the North Pole and its inhabitants was very vivid and I felt transported there. I chuckled a lot about the many Christmas themed puns! I also really enjoyed the protagonist detective that is only alive for 12 days a year around Christmas and doesn’t retain his memories.
This predicament made it easy to dive into the world as a reader and it also holds great potential for future books.
Another aspect I really liked is the representation of Christmas traditions around the world. I find the subject fascinating and to have all those characters in one place made it even cozier.
The last thing I would like to highlight is the audiobook narration by Andrew D. Meredith! His cool snowman detective voice was absolutely spot on! Listening to this on audiobook was definitely the right decision and I would wholeheartedly recommend it!
This book made my Christmas even more merry and I’m looking forward to the next installment in the series.
This book was so full of great characters and christmas cheer! I absolutely adored it!
It has a great cozy mystery in a perfect christmas setting. The description of the North Pole and its inhabitants was very vivid and I felt transported there. I chuckled a lot about the many Christmas themed puns! I also really enjoyed the protagonist detective that is only alive for 12 days a year around Christmas and doesn’t retain his memories.
This predicament made it easy to dive into the world as a reader and it also holds great potential for future books.
Another aspect I really liked is the representation of Christmas traditions around the world. I find the subject fascinating and to have all those characters in one place made it even cozier.
The last thing I would like to highlight is the audiobook narration by Andrew D. Meredith! His cool snowman detective voice was absolutely spot on! Listening to this on audiobook was definitely the right decision and I would wholeheartedly recommend it!
This book made my Christmas even more merry and I’m looking forward to the next installment in the series.
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