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The Most Unusual Mysteries #2
A Most Curious Christmas
Christmas in Blackheath has never been bloodier…
May Morrigan was hoping for mulled wine and minimal drama this festive season. But when your eccentric mother asks you to hide a bloody knife, your estranged twin sister moves in, and your housemate is staging a chaotic pantomime starring a washed-up TV actor with a stalker… a quiet Christmas is off the cards.
When a string of mysterious stabbings shatters the peace on the heath, May finds herself sleuthing through a flurry of secrets involving long-lost babies, pantomime politics, and more than one case of mistaken identity. With her divorce finale looming, her love life in tatters, and her sister revealing a life-altering secret of her own, May must untangle a knot of lies stretching back decades.
As snow falls and secrets unravel, the Morrigan women must reckon with the past—before another body drops.
Murder, mayhem and mistletoe... This deliciously twisty, darkly comic mystery is perfect for fans of Richard Osman, Janice Hallett and The Thursday Murder Club.
May Morrigan was hoping for mulled wine and minimal drama this festive season. But when your eccentric mother asks you to hide a bloody knife, your estranged twin sister moves in, and your housemate is staging a chaotic pantomime starring a washed-up TV actor with a stalker… a quiet Christmas is off the cards.
When a string of mysterious stabbings shatters the peace on the heath, May finds herself sleuthing through a flurry of secrets involving long-lost babies, pantomime politics, and more than one case of mistaken identity. With her divorce finale looming, her love life in tatters, and her sister revealing a life-altering secret of her own, May must untangle a knot of lies stretching back decades.
As snow falls and secrets unravel, the Morrigan women must reckon with the past—before another body drops.
Murder, mayhem and mistletoe... This deliciously twisty, darkly comic mystery is perfect for fans of Richard Osman, Janice Hallett and The Thursday Murder Club.
236 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 11, 2025
53 people are currently reading
82 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 47 reviews
November 7, 2025
Oh how I would love to go to a Morrigan Christmas party!
In this delightful book we meet May Morrigan. Her divorce is looming, her eccentric mother Minty is causing chaos, and her twin sister Cass has suddenly reappeared.
When preparations for her village's first Christmas panto are overshadowed by a series of alarming stabbings on the Heath, May decides to swap her personal drama for some amateur sleuthing.
This is a truly delightful and richly layered cozy mystery.
The narrative is fast-paced and packed with incredibly funny moments, balanced by genuinely interesting and nuanced characters.
We are absolutely rooting for May as she navigates family turmoil, village panic, and the investigation with relentless determination.
This is an absolute must read for fans of interesting, quirky mysteries and the ending is tied up as neatly as a gift wrapped box of green smoothies tied up with a bow.
I'm grateful for an advance copy and this is my own opinion.
In this delightful book we meet May Morrigan. Her divorce is looming, her eccentric mother Minty is causing chaos, and her twin sister Cass has suddenly reappeared.
When preparations for her village's first Christmas panto are overshadowed by a series of alarming stabbings on the Heath, May decides to swap her personal drama for some amateur sleuthing.
This is a truly delightful and richly layered cozy mystery.
The narrative is fast-paced and packed with incredibly funny moments, balanced by genuinely interesting and nuanced characters.
We are absolutely rooting for May as she navigates family turmoil, village panic, and the investigation with relentless determination.
This is an absolute must read for fans of interesting, quirky mysteries and the ending is tied up as neatly as a gift wrapped box of green smoothies tied up with a bow.
I'm grateful for an advance copy and this is my own opinion.
November 14, 2025
This was an absolute riot! I went into expecting a cosy murder mystery but what I got was so much more.
We have the gorgeous Morrigan family. Twins May & Cass and their eccentric mother, Minty.
All 3 are back in the family home trying to navigate living together again and all the challenges that it brings.
As well as the Morrigans, we also meet Fletcher & Gus who are just quirky and wonderful.
I would say Fletch is my favourite but with a delicious array of characters, it is hard to choose. They all add something unique to the tale.
I feel I was hoping for a little more on the stabbing/murder side of things but what I did love was the intricate nature of the mystery and how everything connected together.
There is so much packed into this fantastic book I definitely want to check out the others in The Most Unusual Mysteries series.
Oh, one thing I will say about Minty is:
Minty + Panto - something (I’ll let you discover what the minus is) = pure brilliance! 😂
This book is full of humour, warmth, mystery, intrigue and, most importantly, love. It was a pure joy to read.
Oh, and I love that it deals with difficult, heartbreaking subjects but in a real and genuine way.
Thank you, Katherine & Love Books Tours, for having me on the tour. 🥰
Apologies for my review being late. ♥️
Official rating 4.5 ⭐️
We have the gorgeous Morrigan family. Twins May & Cass and their eccentric mother, Minty.
All 3 are back in the family home trying to navigate living together again and all the challenges that it brings.
As well as the Morrigans, we also meet Fletcher & Gus who are just quirky and wonderful.
I would say Fletch is my favourite but with a delicious array of characters, it is hard to choose. They all add something unique to the tale.
I feel I was hoping for a little more on the stabbing/murder side of things but what I did love was the intricate nature of the mystery and how everything connected together.
There is so much packed into this fantastic book I definitely want to check out the others in The Most Unusual Mysteries series.
Oh, one thing I will say about Minty is:
Minty + Panto - something (I’ll let you discover what the minus is) = pure brilliance! 😂
This book is full of humour, warmth, mystery, intrigue and, most importantly, love. It was a pure joy to read.
Oh, and I love that it deals with difficult, heartbreaking subjects but in a real and genuine way.
Thank you, Katherine & Love Books Tours, for having me on the tour. 🥰
Apologies for my review being late. ♥️
Official rating 4.5 ⭐️
November 22, 2025
This book is the third in the series and, while it stands alone perfectly well, I would definitely read books 1 (A Most Unusual Demise) and 2 (A Most Malicious Messenger) as well. Why? Because they are refreshing, delightful and great fun! And I can assure you I have put my money where my mouth is, as I realised on reading this book that I had somehow missed the second in the series, so immediately treated myself to it to catch up with afterwards.
My favourite thing about this series is the characters, especially main characters May and Fletcher (best friends, not a couple!), but all of them really. They are all charmingly eccentric and so dialogue and interactions are all unpredictable and often very funny. The banter between Fletch and May is witty and wonderful, of course, but the humour is sprinkled throughout even the most serious moments.
Which brings me to another unique and refreshing point about this (and the other two) books… how May (and now Fletch) react to serious events like sudden death, murder and intrigue. Not with horror, shock or pleasurable thrills of excitement, like the protagonists of other cosy mysteries. No, May and Fletch react with cool heads, quick thinking, practical action and an unflappable wit that makes me want to cheer them, be their friend and be afraid in equal portions.
In this mystery there are numerous intrigues to unravel, including some within May’s own family as her ex-husband continues to make a nuisance of himself and her identical twin sister joins their mother in filling May’s family home with complications, aggravations and deceptions as an extra Christmas treat. That’s not to mention Fletch being distracted with running the Christmas panto for some very tempestuous players and Spark’s seasonal absence causing his heart to grow hornier!
I love the immature escapades – romantic, investigative and prankish – of these two mature besties and their ensemble and the whole series is top of my cosy mystery recommendations at the moment for the joyful entertainment I get reading them. And with this latest book being Christmas-themed too, there’s no excuse not to give them a go… ’tis the season!
My favourite thing about this series is the characters, especially main characters May and Fletcher (best friends, not a couple!), but all of them really. They are all charmingly eccentric and so dialogue and interactions are all unpredictable and often very funny. The banter between Fletch and May is witty and wonderful, of course, but the humour is sprinkled throughout even the most serious moments.
Which brings me to another unique and refreshing point about this (and the other two) books… how May (and now Fletch) react to serious events like sudden death, murder and intrigue. Not with horror, shock or pleasurable thrills of excitement, like the protagonists of other cosy mysteries. No, May and Fletch react with cool heads, quick thinking, practical action and an unflappable wit that makes me want to cheer them, be their friend and be afraid in equal portions.
In this mystery there are numerous intrigues to unravel, including some within May’s own family as her ex-husband continues to make a nuisance of himself and her identical twin sister joins their mother in filling May’s family home with complications, aggravations and deceptions as an extra Christmas treat. That’s not to mention Fletch being distracted with running the Christmas panto for some very tempestuous players and Spark’s seasonal absence causing his heart to grow hornier!
I love the immature escapades – romantic, investigative and prankish – of these two mature besties and their ensemble and the whole series is top of my cosy mystery recommendations at the moment for the joyful entertainment I get reading them. And with this latest book being Christmas-themed too, there’s no excuse not to give them a go… ’tis the season!
November 16, 2025
I love to read a good cosy mystery at Christmas time. There is just something about the Christmas sparkle that makes me very happy and this latest book in The Most Unusual Mysteries series does not disappoint.
May Morrigan lives an eccentric life in the town of Blackheath and this time she is joined by her twin sister who has a few secrets she needs to share. I love the main characters in this series - May, Minty and Fletcher especially - they just seem to lead such fun lives. I’m starting to think that when I am in my late sixties I might want to move to a tiny village and start investigating local crime. If you are looking for a light hearted and entertaining Christmas cosy mystery then look no further than this book.
May Morrigan lives an eccentric life in the town of Blackheath and this time she is joined by her twin sister who has a few secrets she needs to share. I love the main characters in this series - May, Minty and Fletcher especially - they just seem to lead such fun lives. I’m starting to think that when I am in my late sixties I might want to move to a tiny village and start investigating local crime. If you are looking for a light hearted and entertaining Christmas cosy mystery then look no further than this book.
October 22, 2025
This is a great series and this is a fantastic addition. The discovery of a murdered local man on the heath has May determined to investigate. Meanwhile Fletcher is busy with the upcoming musical.
This was such a funny read. The characters are brilliant, particularly Minty. Despite May's vindictiveness, you have to love her and her antics. There's lots of surprising moments and I loved how the inclusion of her twin sister Cath plays out. It's been a while since the last book but it's well worth the wait. It also works fine as a standalone but why bother as the other books should not be missed.
This was such a funny read. The characters are brilliant, particularly Minty. Despite May's vindictiveness, you have to love her and her antics. There's lots of surprising moments and I loved how the inclusion of her twin sister Cath plays out. It's been a while since the last book but it's well worth the wait. It also works fine as a standalone but why bother as the other books should not be missed.
November 10, 2025
What a hoot. May Morrigan is late 60s and going through a tough divorce. Living with her friend Fletcher, 96 year old mother Minty and now twin sister Cass has moved back in to the big old family home in Blackheath. A calm and quiet place where everyone knows each other until a series of murders occur. In the midst of this, Fletcher is directing a local pantomime and has to keep recasting. It’s one mishap after another and when the detective investigating becomes romantically involved with May things just get even more complicated. A real Christmas romp! #amostcuriouschristmas #bloodhoundbooks #book146of2025 #novemberbook2
October 3, 2025
I was lucky enough to get an ARC copy of this book from Bloodhound Books, The review is my all my own
I was so looking forward to reading this book, as I have read both of Katherine’s other books & loved them, it certainly did not disappoint. I love the quirky characters and all their antics. The books are well written and it’s easy to get lost in the plot.
Another brilliant story Katherine, hope there’s another in the series xx
I was so looking forward to reading this book, as I have read both of Katherine’s other books & loved them, it certainly did not disappoint. I love the quirky characters and all their antics. The books are well written and it’s easy to get lost in the plot.
Another brilliant story Katherine, hope there’s another in the series xx
October 29, 2025
Another enjoyable book in this series, though I think it would work equally well as a stand alone if you haven't read the previous books.
May and Fletch are such loveable main characters, even where people are being murdered all around them they continue to have their own adventures, and May even starts a new romance with the lead detective!
This is a great example of cosy crime, low on gore but high on storyline and great characters.
I'd thoroughly recommend this book...and the previous ones.
May and Fletch are such loveable main characters, even where people are being murdered all around them they continue to have their own adventures, and May even starts a new romance with the lead detective!
This is a great example of cosy crime, low on gore but high on storyline and great characters.
I'd thoroughly recommend this book...and the previous ones.
October 18, 2025
There are few things I want more than to be invited to May Morrigan’s Christmas party. To sit with Bastian and share town gossip. Or debate with Fletcher about the best musical theatre productions. Or sit by the fire and get tipsy with Minty. Katherine has created such a rich world full of characters you can’t help but root for. And now May’s sister has joined the crew. While going through a messy divorce with a twat of an ex husband, May is warmly surrounded by her loved ones, as complex as those relationships are. Oh, and murder. Lots of murder. And we get to witness all the fun, including a wild plot twist I never saw coming! I can’t wait to see the crew’s next adventure. I’m already rooting for their success!
November 9, 2025
May Morrigan and her best friend of fifty years since their Cambridge university days Dr Fletcher Redmond have once again found themselves housemates in the Morrigan Georgian family home of Greenway in Blackheath village, south of the Thames. After the departure of her cheating husband two years ago, May seems to be returning to her exuberant old self again, although James is still being a pain about the divorce settlement. She’s also having doubts about her new romance with artist Asa who behaves very oddly at times. Having been joined by her 96-year-old mother Minty in the last story, May’s twin sister Cass has also returned from America to the family home and has some very big secrets to share. May owns the Burgos Books bookshop and leaves the day to day running to manager (Se)Bastian, a flamboyant and enigmatic character. Fletcher used to cross dress into Barbara Bouvier, a romantic novelist, but after fifty years of penning her bestselling books has now started to write under his own name. He's still in a wonderful passionate relationship with semi-retired computer science teacher Sparks, another delightful character, while May, still carrying two concealed knives and pretty adept at Krav Maga, wickedly continues to torment her annoying neighbour MP Geoffrey Crichton. Oh, and there’s the small matter of directing the Blackheath theatre’s Christmas panto for Fletcher to cope with, no mean feat in itself. A jogger and friend of the family is discovered stabbed to death on the heath. Not obviously a mugging gone wrong, everyone wonders as to the motive. Then another murder occurs with a very different victim. As the body count rises again, the question is how many killers are roaming the heath? May sets her sights on the rather dishy detective in charge of the case and makes it her business to give him a hand.
This is another deliciously dark story with a whole host of vibrant and entertaining characters, and there’s certainly more to May, Cass and Minty than first meets the eye. It was great to have all the old favourites back, joined this time by some marvellous new ones, and there are some very humorous interactions between all of them. It’s another devilishly funny read with a shocking but smashing ending and I do hope there will be more to come from this very loveable set of characters.
This is another deliciously dark story with a whole host of vibrant and entertaining characters, and there’s certainly more to May, Cass and Minty than first meets the eye. It was great to have all the old favourites back, joined this time by some marvellous new ones, and there are some very humorous interactions between all of them. It’s another devilishly funny read with a shocking but smashing ending and I do hope there will be more to come from this very loveable set of characters.
December 1, 2025
I love cozy mysteries. Somehow, the majority of the ones I've read have all featured lithe young women traipsing through town, nearly befalling all kinds of mischief on their way to solving crimes they have no reasonable business solving—the basic formula.
But the original formula involved a different lead - Ms. Marple - a more mature, seasoned leading lady, which honestly makes a little more sense in some regards because they've seen more so had more time to build up these skills and knowledge. And, while I have run into some middle-aged, plus-size, and other "different" leads, the majority of the lot have been younger over the past decade or so.
So this resurgence of older sleuths is just so charming! Not just older friends or parents politely included in the fun, but at the center of the story - full of life and joie de vivre. And the characters in Katherine Black's novels absolutely have that in spades - right down to the adorable little dachshunds running around the heath. Without any major spoilers, this time those little guys are even central to helping discover a body!
Beloved characters - like Fletcher and .. return - and new ones like May's sister Cass make a grand entrance. And the book is full of everything you'd want a quintessential holiday English cozy mystery to have - murder, cops, kissing, panto, secrets, intrigue, and so much more!
If you love cozy mysteries filled with class charm, wild comedy, and wild twists, you will absolutely love this book - as well as her first two. If you haven't read those yet, there's still plenty of time before Christmas to do just that.
I can't wait to see what comes next! I have grown to love these characters, and I want to see their adventures.
But the original formula involved a different lead - Ms. Marple - a more mature, seasoned leading lady, which honestly makes a little more sense in some regards because they've seen more so had more time to build up these skills and knowledge. And, while I have run into some middle-aged, plus-size, and other "different" leads, the majority of the lot have been younger over the past decade or so.
So this resurgence of older sleuths is just so charming! Not just older friends or parents politely included in the fun, but at the center of the story - full of life and joie de vivre. And the characters in Katherine Black's novels absolutely have that in spades - right down to the adorable little dachshunds running around the heath. Without any major spoilers, this time those little guys are even central to helping discover a body!
Beloved characters - like Fletcher and .. return - and new ones like May's sister Cass make a grand entrance. And the book is full of everything you'd want a quintessential holiday English cozy mystery to have - murder, cops, kissing, panto, secrets, intrigue, and so much more!
If you love cozy mysteries filled with class charm, wild comedy, and wild twists, you will absolutely love this book - as well as her first two. If you haven't read those yet, there's still plenty of time before Christmas to do just that.
I can't wait to see what comes next! I have grown to love these characters, and I want to see their adventures.
November 7, 2025
Blackheath, during the approach to Christmas, is blighted by the murder of Caspar Campbell, a friend of the Morrigan household.
The Morrigan family home, Greenway, is due to host its first family Christmas for many years. The celebrations include the return to the family home of May Corrigan’s identical twin sister, Cass, on the insistence of Minty. Minty is May and Cass’s somewhat unconventional ninety-six-year-old mother.
Fletcher, May’s friend, is the other member of the household, apart from May’s mini Dachshunds, Bess and George. Fletcher is writing, directing and producing the village pantomime, Peter Pan.
The star of the show, a fading, predatory actor, Clarke Woolf, is playing Widow Twankey and causing Fletcher problems trying to manage Woolf’s attempted philandering.
The run-up to Christmas brings the sharing of family secrets, while May is trying to navigate her way through an acrimonious divorce.
This is a great book. I read it very quickly, putting aside things I shouldn’t have put aside to find out how the story ends. It certainly turns out to be a most curious Christmas.
The Morrigan family home, Greenway, is due to host its first family Christmas for many years. The celebrations include the return to the family home of May Corrigan’s identical twin sister, Cass, on the insistence of Minty. Minty is May and Cass’s somewhat unconventional ninety-six-year-old mother.
Fletcher, May’s friend, is the other member of the household, apart from May’s mini Dachshunds, Bess and George. Fletcher is writing, directing and producing the village pantomime, Peter Pan.
The star of the show, a fading, predatory actor, Clarke Woolf, is playing Widow Twankey and causing Fletcher problems trying to manage Woolf’s attempted philandering.
The run-up to Christmas brings the sharing of family secrets, while May is trying to navigate her way through an acrimonious divorce.
This is a great book. I read it very quickly, putting aside things I shouldn’t have put aside to find out how the story ends. It certainly turns out to be a most curious Christmas.
November 15, 2025
As someone who’s been following May Morrigan since A Most Unusual Demise I was delighted to see Katherine Black’s trademark blend of dark humour, eccentric characters, and twisty plotting in her latest book A Most Curious Christmas.
This third instalment raises the stakes while keeping the cozy, slightly chaotic charm that makes the series so addictive. May is back in Blackheath, hoping for a drama-free festive season, but of course, that’s never going to happen. From the moment her mother hands her a bloody knife to hide, you know you’re in for a wild ride. Add in an estranged twin sister with secrets, a pantomime production spiralling out of control, and a washed-up TV actor with a stalker, and you’ve got a Christmas cocktail of murder and mayhem.
What I loved most is how Katherine Black continues to deepen May’s character. She’s juggling a looming divorce, a messy love life, and family revelations that could change everything. The pacing is brisk, the dialogue sharp, and the humour perfectly pitched against the backdrop of snow and blood. This instalment is full of festive fun and perfect for this time of year.
This third instalment raises the stakes while keeping the cozy, slightly chaotic charm that makes the series so addictive. May is back in Blackheath, hoping for a drama-free festive season, but of course, that’s never going to happen. From the moment her mother hands her a bloody knife to hide, you know you’re in for a wild ride. Add in an estranged twin sister with secrets, a pantomime production spiralling out of control, and a washed-up TV actor with a stalker, and you’ve got a Christmas cocktail of murder and mayhem.
What I loved most is how Katherine Black continues to deepen May’s character. She’s juggling a looming divorce, a messy love life, and family revelations that could change everything. The pacing is brisk, the dialogue sharp, and the humour perfectly pitched against the backdrop of snow and blood. This instalment is full of festive fun and perfect for this time of year.
November 12, 2025
Get ready for a Christmas cozy mystery centered around a pantomime and the discovery of a body. May and Fletcher are back and they are joined by the other Morrigan women, Minty, May’s mother, and her twin sister Cass. Fletcher is in charge of the pantomime and it seems destined for disaster. May can’t help herself; she wants Fletcher to be successful so she has to assist with figuring out what is going on, if the incidents are connected. The characters are quirky and some of the situations make me laugh. With both Minty and Cass around, family secrets are revealed and May has a full house. I enjoy May but there are moments that have me wondering if we will ever know what she is really capable of. This is book 3 in the series and it can be read as a standalone but will be more enjoyable if you have read the others.
I recommend this to readers that like their cozy mysteries with mature, quirky characters that keep you guessing.
Thanks to Love Book Tours and the author for the gifted copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I recommend this to readers that like their cozy mysteries with mature, quirky characters that keep you guessing.
Thanks to Love Book Tours and the author for the gifted copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
November 11, 2025
A most curious christmas was a warm, festive and cosy book. It felt like a big hug from a good friend when I was reading it. There was a wonderful cast of fabulous characters. Flecher and Mays friendship was beautifully written. Minty’s one liners were perfect making me laugh out loud several times. Cass’s backstory was so tender and heartbreaking. While Geroge and Bess gave relief from the heaviness of the story at times. Who doesn't love Dachshund’s!
Amoungst all the festivities there was also the situation of the crime spate which was taking Blackheath by storm. I enjoyed the mystery element of finding who was behind the stabbings and all the reasons why they were happening. However I felt the conclusion was quite rushed. Personally seeing May and Flecther investigating more would have been enjoyable for me.
Overall it made for a enjoyable, cosy, mysterious and fstive read. It touched on some heavy subjects that the characters were dealing with and these were dealt with in a sensitve nature. While also been scattered with lighthearted and entertaining moments.
Thankyou so much to lovebooktours, Katherine Black and Bloodhound books for the early copy in exchange for my honest review.
Amoungst all the festivities there was also the situation of the crime spate which was taking Blackheath by storm. I enjoyed the mystery element of finding who was behind the stabbings and all the reasons why they were happening. However I felt the conclusion was quite rushed. Personally seeing May and Flecther investigating more would have been enjoyable for me.
Overall it made for a enjoyable, cosy, mysterious and fstive read. It touched on some heavy subjects that the characters were dealing with and these were dealt with in a sensitve nature. While also been scattered with lighthearted and entertaining moments.
Thankyou so much to lovebooktours, Katherine Black and Bloodhound books for the early copy in exchange for my honest review.
November 24, 2025
This was my first time reading anything by Katherine Black. The story pulled me in quickly. It’s set around Christmas in a quiet village, but things are far from peaceful. There’s a murder, a pantomime, and a whole lot of family drama.
The main character, May Morrigan, is dealing with a messy divorce and trying to keep things together at her family home. Her mother Minty is full of surprises, her twin sister Cass shows up out of the blue, and her friend Fletcher is busy directing the village play. Just when things couldn’t get more chaotic, a murder shakes up the town, and May finds herself trying to solve it.
I liked how the book mixed mystery with humour and everyday life. The characters were quirky and fun, and the dialogues made me smile. Even with the serious parts, the story never felt too heavy.
The holiday setting added a cozy feel, even with all the chaos going on. I didn’t feel lost even though it’s part of a series, so it works well as a standalone.
The main character, May Morrigan, is dealing with a messy divorce and trying to keep things together at her family home. Her mother Minty is full of surprises, her twin sister Cass shows up out of the blue, and her friend Fletcher is busy directing the village play. Just when things couldn’t get more chaotic, a murder shakes up the town, and May finds herself trying to solve it.
I liked how the book mixed mystery with humour and everyday life. The characters were quirky and fun, and the dialogues made me smile. Even with the serious parts, the story never felt too heavy.
The holiday setting added a cozy feel, even with all the chaos going on. I didn’t feel lost even though it’s part of a series, so it works well as a standalone.
November 3, 2025
Cosy crime is not one of my favourite genres however, I gave this one a go, not realising the book is part of a series. This quickly became apparent when a variety of eccentric characters are introduced en masse, all of whom have back stories previously explored.
I'm not sure what kind of vibe the author is aiming for, to be honest.
On the one hand, we have totally OTT performances by main characters..Minty the 96 year old mother is one...whose antics I presume the reader is supposed to find hilarious. On the other hand we have foul-mouthed, gay and paedophilic character interactions which jarred a bit with the cosy Christmas themes.
The murders came thick and fast, albeit a bit muddled. The ending felt rushed and totally unbelievable.
However, it was enjoyable enough and passed a few weary hours.
Thanks to Bloodhound Books for the ARC
I'm not sure what kind of vibe the author is aiming for, to be honest.
On the one hand, we have totally OTT performances by main characters..Minty the 96 year old mother is one...whose antics I presume the reader is supposed to find hilarious. On the other hand we have foul-mouthed, gay and paedophilic character interactions which jarred a bit with the cosy Christmas themes.
The murders came thick and fast, albeit a bit muddled. The ending felt rushed and totally unbelievable.
However, it was enjoyable enough and passed a few weary hours.
Thanks to Bloodhound Books for the ARC
November 9, 2025
It was a joy to catch up with the residents of Greenway, Blackwell Heath - May Morrigan, her mum Minty, twin sister Cass, her oldest friend and housemate Fletcher Redmond and mini dachshunds Bess and George. This is one Christmas that May won't forget as she begins sleuthing through a curious stabbing on the heath whilst Fletch is directing a Panto and her Mum finds a bloody knife! On the personal front, May is dealing with her divorce, her sister Cass decides to be upfront with her own personal secrets and learning some truths about some of the Blackheath Village residents. It was engrossing, entertaining, full of festive cheer with a few twists and turns along the way, and unstoppable when the secrets and lies are revealed. All the sub plots wove together to a complete and satisfying ending!
November 12, 2025
Is there anything better than a good Christmas book with a little bit of murder and mischief mixed in.
There never seems to be a dull moment in Blackheath especially when the Morrigans and Fletcher are around.
This third book in the series was a read that brought laughter and heart alongside a few more serious and sad moments.
May and Minty (this time joined by Cass May’s sister) have proven than blood is thicker than water and somethings that run in the family are probably best kept as secrets.
The characters in the book are so wonderfully written and developed that you really feel like you are part of the group.
Although the third book in the series I feel that this would work as a standalone very well so if you haven’t yet read the others but are looking for a festive read then this is a perfect choice.
There never seems to be a dull moment in Blackheath especially when the Morrigans and Fletcher are around.
This third book in the series was a read that brought laughter and heart alongside a few more serious and sad moments.
May and Minty (this time joined by Cass May’s sister) have proven than blood is thicker than water and somethings that run in the family are probably best kept as secrets.
The characters in the book are so wonderfully written and developed that you really feel like you are part of the group.
Although the third book in the series I feel that this would work as a standalone very well so if you haven’t yet read the others but are looking for a festive read then this is a perfect choice.
November 17, 2025
I received a copy of this slow leisurely paced plot contrasting against the manic preparations for the Panto and Christmas is a witty and fun read with lots of humour and banter between characters and LOL moments. I loved the dynamics and interactions between twin sisters Cass and May.
With its twists, turns and red herrings a plenty due to the various murders and the consequent mystery they created. I was constantly trying to work out who killed who...one person...more than one? and what the motive or motives were?
At the end it took me a while to get my head around who killed who and why and I was left with mixed emotions of a feeling sadness and empathetic loss and varying levels of justification.
Bess and George the daschunds are adorable and I could just imagine them in little Christmas outfits in the setting of Blackheath Park.
With its twists, turns and red herrings a plenty due to the various murders and the consequent mystery they created. I was constantly trying to work out who killed who...one person...more than one? and what the motive or motives were?
At the end it took me a while to get my head around who killed who and why and I was left with mixed emotions of a feeling sadness and empathetic loss and varying levels of justification.
Bess and George the daschunds are adorable and I could just imagine them in little Christmas outfits in the setting of Blackheath Park.
November 19, 2025
Ah, back with May and Fletcher in book 3 of the Most Unusual series and this time our cosy mystery has a christmas vibe complete with a panto that made me laugh out loud!
With this story, I felt like the cosy mystery side of it didn't become a bigger part of the story until quite the way through the tale. I quite liked that and we got lots of what else was going on around the Heath instead.
I loved meeting Cass and found my heart breaking for what she has been through.
Minty and Desi's friendship provided much comic relief as well as being really heartwarming.
There is some really exciting things to come from all of these characters it seems, with lots of threads being dangled throughout so I am looking forward to seeing how this all plays out!
With this story, I felt like the cosy mystery side of it didn't become a bigger part of the story until quite the way through the tale. I quite liked that and we got lots of what else was going on around the Heath instead.
I loved meeting Cass and found my heart breaking for what she has been through.
Minty and Desi's friendship provided much comic relief as well as being really heartwarming.
There is some really exciting things to come from all of these characters it seems, with lots of threads being dangled throughout so I am looking forward to seeing how this all plays out!
November 21, 2025
A cosy murder mystery with larger than characters and a festive atmosphere. There's family drama, secrets and murders to solve. I loved all of the characters, particularly Minty, she is someone I'd love to hang out with and I hope I'm like her at that age! May is dealing with her divorce, Fletcher is putting on a pantomime and someone is going round stabbing people on the heath. I would say the murder mystery is secondary to the chaos of the Morrigan's lives and I enjoyed them as characters more than the murder mystery element. It's a lovely festive read.
Thank you to the author and Love Book Tours for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
Thank you to the author and Love Book Tours for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
October 25, 2025
This is a most enjoyable and captivating book , from start to finish.
Among the seriousness of murder is plenty of humour.
It has likeable, strong, interesting characters who are quite outrageous at times.
Along with trying to guess who I had a good laugh, especially at a part nearing the end. It's a good job nobody was about .
I do enjoy this authors books, and I wouldn't hesitate to recommend this one.
My thanks to Bloodhound books for the advanced copy. This is my honest and unbiased review of this book.
Among the seriousness of murder is plenty of humour.
It has likeable, strong, interesting characters who are quite outrageous at times.
Along with trying to guess who I had a good laugh, especially at a part nearing the end. It's a good job nobody was about .
I do enjoy this authors books, and I wouldn't hesitate to recommend this one.
My thanks to Bloodhound books for the advanced copy. This is my honest and unbiased review of this book.
October 29, 2025
A “cosy” murder mystery. This is not my favourite genre, but this novel was light hearted and amusing, so, perfectly readable. That’s a compliment, coming from me! The murders and bodies piled up rather too readily for my tastes, but, as the deaths didn’t seem to be particularly lamented, this doesn’t cause the anguish one would expect. The characters are totally unbelievable, but humorous in their eccentricity. There are several more serious themes running through the book, which do maintain the reader’s interest. Harmless and readable, if you take it all with the necessary pinch of salt.
November 16, 2025
Definitely recommend.
A Most Curious Christmas by Katherine Black.
The most unusual mysteries book 2.
I really did enjoy this book. I love this author. I have read all her books so far. Its great that May Fletcher Cass Minty are back. Even Armstrong. I loved the writing style and the story. I listened to this book on kindle unlimited. I loved the short chapters. I was able to listen to this in one sitting. I couldn't put it down. Wow. I didn't see that coming. I certainly got it wrong. It wasn't who I thought it was. Definitely recommend.
A Most Curious Christmas by Katherine Black.
The most unusual mysteries book 2.
I really did enjoy this book. I love this author. I have read all her books so far. Its great that May Fletcher Cass Minty are back. Even Armstrong. I loved the writing style and the story. I listened to this book on kindle unlimited. I loved the short chapters. I was able to listen to this in one sitting. I couldn't put it down. Wow. I didn't see that coming. I certainly got it wrong. It wasn't who I thought it was. Definitely recommend.
December 24, 2025
Ahhh! It was so amazing to see this new release from Katherine and the third book in The Most Unusual Mysteries series.
It's been a while since I read the first two books - A Most Unusual Demise and A Most Malicious Messenger, but how could I forget how absolutely brilliant they both were.
And so it was no surprise that I jumped at reading this book as soon as I could get my hands on it!
It might have been a while, but Blackheath is bloodier than ever and poor May hasn't had a minute to relax and enjoy the festive season.
Still, at least with everything that's going on around her, she doesn't have to dwell on her personal problems too much....
I find May is so relatable, even with all the chaos surrounding her, she gets stuck in and shows up, determined to solve the case and keep everyone happy too.
With Fletcher planning a pantomime and her mum and sister staying too, life is never dull!
This was another perplexing case and I loved following the clues laid out for May - and us - and coming up with my own theories throughout - did I guess what happened - nope! But I had a great time while I was getting there.
This is such a great book to immerse yourself in over a chilly weekend - even giving a few of those festive vibes too.
The writing style and loveable characters draw us in and I just can't help racing through the pages.
I know it's hard, but I really hope that we'll be seeing much more of May in future books soon!
It's been a while since I read the first two books - A Most Unusual Demise and A Most Malicious Messenger, but how could I forget how absolutely brilliant they both were.
And so it was no surprise that I jumped at reading this book as soon as I could get my hands on it!
It might have been a while, but Blackheath is bloodier than ever and poor May hasn't had a minute to relax and enjoy the festive season.
Still, at least with everything that's going on around her, she doesn't have to dwell on her personal problems too much....
I find May is so relatable, even with all the chaos surrounding her, she gets stuck in and shows up, determined to solve the case and keep everyone happy too.
With Fletcher planning a pantomime and her mum and sister staying too, life is never dull!
This was another perplexing case and I loved following the clues laid out for May - and us - and coming up with my own theories throughout - did I guess what happened - nope! But I had a great time while I was getting there.
This is such a great book to immerse yourself in over a chilly weekend - even giving a few of those festive vibes too.
The writing style and loveable characters draw us in and I just can't help racing through the pages.
I know it's hard, but I really hope that we'll be seeing much more of May in future books soon!
November 10, 2025
It's Christmas in Black heath, and May Morrigan has a lot to cope with - not only the appearance of her estrangedtwin sister, invited by her mother, but also finalising her divorce from James. And her friend Fletcher is absorbed in producing the local panto. Then a man is murdered on the heath, & May can't help getting involved.
.
Another darkly comic adventure for May and Fletcher - I really wanted to read this slowly, to make it last - but I couldn't help myself & read it in two sittings.
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Another darkly comic adventure for May and Fletcher - I really wanted to read this slowly, to make it last - but I couldn't help myself & read it in two sittings.
November 24, 2025
I love these books, the characters are a joy.
I find the humour effortless it flows so well and this one has the added humour of the banter between twins May and Cass.
If you want a cosy festive mystery this is a really good one to go for.
I can’t believe it’s nearly a year since I read the last one, it’s like meeting up with friends as soon as I started reading this one, I cannot wait to see what happens next.
I find the humour effortless it flows so well and this one has the added humour of the banter between twins May and Cass.
If you want a cosy festive mystery this is a really good one to go for.
I can’t believe it’s nearly a year since I read the last one, it’s like meeting up with friends as soon as I started reading this one, I cannot wait to see what happens next.
October 28, 2025
What a great read! Plenty of different characters, plenty of action, from stabbings to the local pantomime.
Christmas is certainly different at May Morrigan's house, never a dull moment.
Lovely book to sit and read with Christmas approaching. It didn't disappoint.
Thanks for the opportunity to read. A book I highly recommend.
Christmas is certainly different at May Morrigan's house, never a dull moment.
Lovely book to sit and read with Christmas approaching. It didn't disappoint.
Thanks for the opportunity to read. A book I highly recommend.
November 16, 2025
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. It's a perfect cosy read for Christmas time! The plot is interesting and the characters are so much fun. I also enjoyed the Christmas/Christmas song references for each chapter title and the movie and literature references throughout the book. If you're looking for a fun and festive mystery, I recommend this one!
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