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Deadly Traditions: A Cozy Mystery Christmas Anthology
Have yourself a DEADLY little Christmas.
Celebrate the holidays with mistletoe, mayhem, and murder. Join your favorite authors as they cozy up by the fire with twelve festive short mysteries that feature treasured holiday traditions. Serve up a slice of fatal fruitcake and deck the halls with danger, because the holiday season has never been so much fun.
This original collection is available for a limited time only, so grab your copy today.
Includes:
A Pickle in a Pear Tree by Erin Scoggins
Mistletoe and Murder by Dianne Ascroft
O Deadly Night by Estelle Richards
Larceny and Gingerbread Lattes by Justine Maxwell
...and more!
Celebrate the holidays with mistletoe, mayhem, and murder. Join your favorite authors as they cozy up by the fire with twelve festive short mysteries that feature treasured holiday traditions. Serve up a slice of fatal fruitcake and deck the halls with danger, because the holiday season has never been so much fun.
This original collection is available for a limited time only, so grab your copy today.
Includes:
A Pickle in a Pear Tree by Erin Scoggins
Mistletoe and Murder by Dianne Ascroft
O Deadly Night by Estelle Richards
Larceny and Gingerbread Lattes by Justine Maxwell
...and more!
- GenresContemporaryMystery
474 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 27, 2022
22 people are currently reading
119 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 55 reviews
September 11, 2022
This review is really just a place holder for when I get my hands on this complete Christmas themed cozy anthology. I have read one of the stories - Christmas Card and Feathered from Mollie Cox Bryan - and can't wait to read the rest!! I will add the list of other stories and authors once I have my hands on the full book!
When the weather starts to cool off each year and it edges to Halloween season and straight through to Christmas, I find myself binge reading cozy mysteries. Not sure why other than I enjoy them and there are so many with holiday/season themes. Each year I grab the Halloween and Christmas cozy anthologies and get introduced to so many new-to-me authors and series I haven't read yet -- plus many favorites that keep me coming back for each new book or short story.
Mollie Cox Bryan's story that will be in Deadly Traditions is part of her Victoria Town Mystery series. Victoria Town, VA brings in tourists for all things Victorian. It's like a trip back in time. I read the first book in this series when it came out, but after reading this new short story I'm going back and reading through all 3 books in this series. Adding it to my cozy reading list for this year! I like the setting, the characters and the basic premise, plus I enjoy all of Mollie Cox Bryan's books. Woot! See? An anthology found me a series to read by a fav author -- and I've only read one of the stories so far! I'm sure the rest of the anthology will have me adding other authors/books/series to my list! Can't wait!
I love the cover!! So festive!
**I voluntarily read a review copy of this upcoming short story from the author. All opinions expressed are entirely my own.**
When the weather starts to cool off each year and it edges to Halloween season and straight through to Christmas, I find myself binge reading cozy mysteries. Not sure why other than I enjoy them and there are so many with holiday/season themes. Each year I grab the Halloween and Christmas cozy anthologies and get introduced to so many new-to-me authors and series I haven't read yet -- plus many favorites that keep me coming back for each new book or short story.
Mollie Cox Bryan's story that will be in Deadly Traditions is part of her Victoria Town Mystery series. Victoria Town, VA brings in tourists for all things Victorian. It's like a trip back in time. I read the first book in this series when it came out, but after reading this new short story I'm going back and reading through all 3 books in this series. Adding it to my cozy reading list for this year! I like the setting, the characters and the basic premise, plus I enjoy all of Mollie Cox Bryan's books. Woot! See? An anthology found me a series to read by a fav author -- and I've only read one of the stories so far! I'm sure the rest of the anthology will have me adding other authors/books/series to my list! Can't wait!
I love the cover!! So festive!
**I voluntarily read a review copy of this upcoming short story from the author. All opinions expressed are entirely my own.**
September 27, 2022
4.5 stars
I’ve been looking forward to this collection since the moment I learned it would include Have Yourself a Scary Little Christmas by one of my fave cozy mystery authors, Gayle Leeson. In fact, even though it’s not the first story in the collection and I’m usually a stickler for reading in order, I read her novella first… and I grinned nearly the whole way through it. I already love Max and the non-ghost characters from Leeson’s Ghostly Fashionista Mystery series, so it was lots of fun to be treated to a Christmas ghost story…. from a ghost. The author infused this novella with wit and warmth, and readers will love how Max’s family bands together in a sticky situation.
The other novellas in this holiday collection of short story cozy mysteries were all by relatively new to me authors. Other than Mollie Cox Bryan, whose Cora Crafts Mystery series I’ve read, this was my introduction to the rest. I’ve seen their books on Amazon and thought about trying them, which is the beauty of a collection such as this – it gives you a taste of each author’s writing style and (in many cases) ongoing series. I am happy to report that I’ve found several authors whose backlists I’ll now be combing through because I read Deadly Traditions. I’m particularly eager to catch up on Justine Maxwell’s Coffee Truck Cozy Mystery series – I really loved this introduction to the setting and the characters, as well as her writing voice. And then I’ll track down all the other authors who have series, too, because I honestly enjoyed each one!
Bottom Line: Even small joys and casual traditions mean more at Christmas, don’t they? And, in the same manner, even small crises seem more magnified during the holidays. In Deadly Traditions, readers are treated to twelve different stories brimming with Christmas traditions gone awry in some form or fashion. From a destroyed gingerbread masterpiece to a murdered farmer and everything in between – including a missing Santa, a missing engagement ring, a retiree held hostage, a murdered elf, and even a couple of poisoned cookie eaters – we also meet a variety of amateur sleuths, including the fabulous Mrs. Claus herself. If you love Christmas, cozy mysteries, and great writing, then you need to get a copy of the Deadly Traditions cozy mystery Christmas anthology by these twelve festive authors!
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
first reviewed at Reading Is My SuperPower
I’ve been looking forward to this collection since the moment I learned it would include Have Yourself a Scary Little Christmas by one of my fave cozy mystery authors, Gayle Leeson. In fact, even though it’s not the first story in the collection and I’m usually a stickler for reading in order, I read her novella first… and I grinned nearly the whole way through it. I already love Max and the non-ghost characters from Leeson’s Ghostly Fashionista Mystery series, so it was lots of fun to be treated to a Christmas ghost story…. from a ghost. The author infused this novella with wit and warmth, and readers will love how Max’s family bands together in a sticky situation.
The other novellas in this holiday collection of short story cozy mysteries were all by relatively new to me authors. Other than Mollie Cox Bryan, whose Cora Crafts Mystery series I’ve read, this was my introduction to the rest. I’ve seen their books on Amazon and thought about trying them, which is the beauty of a collection such as this – it gives you a taste of each author’s writing style and (in many cases) ongoing series. I am happy to report that I’ve found several authors whose backlists I’ll now be combing through because I read Deadly Traditions. I’m particularly eager to catch up on Justine Maxwell’s Coffee Truck Cozy Mystery series – I really loved this introduction to the setting and the characters, as well as her writing voice. And then I’ll track down all the other authors who have series, too, because I honestly enjoyed each one!
Bottom Line: Even small joys and casual traditions mean more at Christmas, don’t they? And, in the same manner, even small crises seem more magnified during the holidays. In Deadly Traditions, readers are treated to twelve different stories brimming with Christmas traditions gone awry in some form or fashion. From a destroyed gingerbread masterpiece to a murdered farmer and everything in between – including a missing Santa, a missing engagement ring, a retiree held hostage, a murdered elf, and even a couple of poisoned cookie eaters – we also meet a variety of amateur sleuths, including the fabulous Mrs. Claus herself. If you love Christmas, cozy mysteries, and great writing, then you need to get a copy of the Deadly Traditions cozy mystery Christmas anthology by these twelve festive authors!
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
first reviewed at Reading Is My SuperPower
September 21, 2022
Are you ready for Christmas? Of course you are….Christmas books that is! Deadly Traditions will definitely get you in the mood for the season of cozy Christmas mysteries. It’s the perfect way to enjoy Christmas in short blocks of time.
This Christmas anthology contains twelve Christmas-themed short stories. As a whole, I found Deadly Traditions to be a delightful read.. There were only a couple of stories I didn’t finish because they just weren’t for me; however, the others were so enjoyable that it made me give this book 5 stars. Several of the stories were very entertaining and had characters I really liked from the authors’ other cozy mysteries; so, since I haven’t read them yet, I’ll be putting them in my TBR pile!
Each story has a unique mystery which is easily solved over the course of just a few chapters, so you’re not going to get anything unnecessary thrown into these stories. There are lots of clues, lots of Christmas decorations, lots of parties, lots of cookies…you get my point. The stories are well-written, and they certainly gave me a cozy Christmas feeling. I’m ready to put up the tree, but no one in the house will let me since it’s only September.
If you love Christmas and you love cozy mystery books, I think you’ll definitely be entertained by Deadly Traditions.
This Christmas anthology contains twelve Christmas-themed short stories. As a whole, I found Deadly Traditions to be a delightful read.. There were only a couple of stories I didn’t finish because they just weren’t for me; however, the others were so enjoyable that it made me give this book 5 stars. Several of the stories were very entertaining and had characters I really liked from the authors’ other cozy mysteries; so, since I haven’t read them yet, I’ll be putting them in my TBR pile!
Each story has a unique mystery which is easily solved over the course of just a few chapters, so you’re not going to get anything unnecessary thrown into these stories. There are lots of clues, lots of Christmas decorations, lots of parties, lots of cookies…you get my point. The stories are well-written, and they certainly gave me a cozy Christmas feeling. I’m ready to put up the tree, but no one in the house will let me since it’s only September.
If you love Christmas and you love cozy mystery books, I think you’ll definitely be entertained by Deadly Traditions.
September 24, 2022
I read and am reviewing “Have Yourself A Scary Little Christmas” by Gayle Leeson. This was quick and easy read that takes us to Max’s childhood and a mystery over Christmas. I enjoyed this look at Max’s history and the mystery involving her father and a childhood friend of his. This was a fun story and I look forward to more in the Ghostly Fashionista series which is a favorite cozy series of mine.
September 24, 2022
DEADLY TRADITIONS: A COZY MYSTERY CHRISTMAS ANTHOLOGY
Christmas cookie contests, kidnapped Santas, gingerbread crises, and more await you in the stories of this new Christmas themed anthology. A professional mourner, retired opera singer, and wedding planner are just a few of the careers from which our protagonists hail and locations are just as varied including a retirement community in Minnesota and a yacht on the North Carolina coast.
I really enjoyed the stories, each of which is a quick read, easily finished before bed...or on a lunch break. I wasn't familiar with many of the authors, but I'll definitely be looking some up! Most of the stories seem to be inhabited by characters from full length books in mystery series. Being unfamiliar with the background wasn't confusing and I didn't have a problem being thrown into their world, though some authors made it easier than others. I'm sure readers who follow the series will appreciate these stories even more.
DEADLY TRADITIONS: A COZY MYSTERY CHRISTMAS ANTHOLOGY is filled with fun, quick reads to get you into the holiday spirit.
Christmas cookie contests, kidnapped Santas, gingerbread crises, and more await you in the stories of this new Christmas themed anthology. A professional mourner, retired opera singer, and wedding planner are just a few of the careers from which our protagonists hail and locations are just as varied including a retirement community in Minnesota and a yacht on the North Carolina coast.
I really enjoyed the stories, each of which is a quick read, easily finished before bed...or on a lunch break. I wasn't familiar with many of the authors, but I'll definitely be looking some up! Most of the stories seem to be inhabited by characters from full length books in mystery series. Being unfamiliar with the background wasn't confusing and I didn't have a problem being thrown into their world, though some authors made it easier than others. I'm sure readers who follow the series will appreciate these stories even more.
DEADLY TRADITIONS: A COZY MYSTERY CHRISTMAS ANTHOLOGY is filled with fun, quick reads to get you into the holiday spirit.
September 14, 2022
What a fun set of cozy Christmas stories. I read Mollie Bryan’s “Christmas Card and Feathers”. When their friend’s body is found in their shop, Irene and Vic are shocked. Can they help police find the killer? This short story packs in a lot of mystery. I received a complimentary copy of this story and chose to write a voluntary, unbiased review.
February 2, 2024
Review for “A Pickle in a Pear Tree” by Erin Scoggins
It’s a “Wedding Crashers Holiday Mystery” written by Erin Scoggins included in the “Deadly Traditions: A Cozy Mystery Christmas Anthology”. The story focuses on wedding and event planner, Glory that once again has to solve the mystery behind a stolen engagement ring during an engagement Christmas party. There are many suspects on the yacht. Will Glory be able to find the ring and save the night?
The author attracts the reader through her writing style that is easy to digest. The world she created reminds us of Agatha Christie’s novels, mostly “Death on the Nile” and the “Miss Marple” series with a pinch of humor added to it, the “Geronimo Stilton” series by Elisabetta Dami a.k.a. Thea Stilton, the “Agatha: Girl of Mystery” series by Sir Steve Stevenson, Gosho Aoyama’s detective manga series “Case Closed” a.k.a. “Detective Conan” and Dr. Robert Quakenbush’s “A Miss Mallard Mystery” book series.
Glory is similar to Raymond West, Miss Marple’s nephew. She’s a wedding and event planner, who often has to become a detective to solve crimes and mysteries during the events she’s hired to organize. She’s smart, clever, poised, understanding and she’s always there to help others like in this story.
Beverlee Wells-Bartholomew is the main character’s flirtatious motherly clever aunt that helps her niece solve cases. She’s the funny version of Miss Marple. Eliza Bullard is the socialite stereotype and the dotting mother of Hampton. She’s quick to judge others when the ring was stolen. Hampton is Eliza’s son who learns from Glory in the end to set boundaries with his mother and live a happy fulfilling life with his girlfriend, Mia.
True love, hard work, setting boundaries, mother-son relationship, toxic parents, false accusations, prejudice and quick wit are some of the themes discussed in this story. The readers will learn about the German Christmas traditions and will also laugh at some scenes.
There are many things with special meanings like the pear – wealth, prosperity, abundance, longevity; the sunset – transition, the ending of Eliza’s control over her son in this case; the sea – a place to reflect on the past, dream and hope about the future; the yacht – the sea, wealth, power, freedom; the gold – luxury, royalty, fortune; the diamond – light, life, purity, the sun, perfection, commitment, faithfulness etc.
Together with Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, Mihail Sadoveanu, Agatha Christie, Hergé, Thea Stilton (Elisabetta Dami), Jonathan W. Stokes, Sir Steve Stevenson and many others, Erin Scoggins revolutionized crime mystery literature through the world that she created.
I recommend this book to readers 14+ due to some scenes that can’t be understood by younger readers.
It’s a “Wedding Crashers Holiday Mystery” written by Erin Scoggins included in the “Deadly Traditions: A Cozy Mystery Christmas Anthology”. The story focuses on wedding and event planner, Glory that once again has to solve the mystery behind a stolen engagement ring during an engagement Christmas party. There are many suspects on the yacht. Will Glory be able to find the ring and save the night?
The author attracts the reader through her writing style that is easy to digest. The world she created reminds us of Agatha Christie’s novels, mostly “Death on the Nile” and the “Miss Marple” series with a pinch of humor added to it, the “Geronimo Stilton” series by Elisabetta Dami a.k.a. Thea Stilton, the “Agatha: Girl of Mystery” series by Sir Steve Stevenson, Gosho Aoyama’s detective manga series “Case Closed” a.k.a. “Detective Conan” and Dr. Robert Quakenbush’s “A Miss Mallard Mystery” book series.
Glory is similar to Raymond West, Miss Marple’s nephew. She’s a wedding and event planner, who often has to become a detective to solve crimes and mysteries during the events she’s hired to organize. She’s smart, clever, poised, understanding and she’s always there to help others like in this story.
Beverlee Wells-Bartholomew is the main character’s flirtatious motherly clever aunt that helps her niece solve cases. She’s the funny version of Miss Marple. Eliza Bullard is the socialite stereotype and the dotting mother of Hampton. She’s quick to judge others when the ring was stolen. Hampton is Eliza’s son who learns from Glory in the end to set boundaries with his mother and live a happy fulfilling life with his girlfriend, Mia.
True love, hard work, setting boundaries, mother-son relationship, toxic parents, false accusations, prejudice and quick wit are some of the themes discussed in this story. The readers will learn about the German Christmas traditions and will also laugh at some scenes.
There are many things with special meanings like the pear – wealth, prosperity, abundance, longevity; the sunset – transition, the ending of Eliza’s control over her son in this case; the sea – a place to reflect on the past, dream and hope about the future; the yacht – the sea, wealth, power, freedom; the gold – luxury, royalty, fortune; the diamond – light, life, purity, the sun, perfection, commitment, faithfulness etc.
Together with Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, Mihail Sadoveanu, Agatha Christie, Hergé, Thea Stilton (Elisabetta Dami), Jonathan W. Stokes, Sir Steve Stevenson and many others, Erin Scoggins revolutionized crime mystery literature through the world that she created.
I recommend this book to readers 14+ due to some scenes that can’t be understood by younger readers.
September 28, 2022
Read my review on NovelsAlive.com by clicking the link below. It is also posted in full.
https://novelsalive.com/2022/09/28/4-...
Deadly Traditions: A Cozy Mystery Christmas Anthology consists of twelve short stories penned by twelve new-to-me authors. Set in a variety of locales and even in different countries, they all have Christmas, amateur sleuths, and a mystery to be solved in common.
Each story was introduced with a short blurb which was a nice touch. The stories drew me in, introducing me to various characters and lots of amateurs sleuths who think they are helping the local police—some are, and some aren’t.
It was fun to figure out whodunnit with Christmas as the backdrop, but all the stories ended too abruptly, in my opinion. There were Santas, gingerbread houses, Christmas cookies galore, parties and get-togethers, a quaint Victorian town, caroling, holiday décor, and even a hayride, but all had the town’s traditions or a family’s tradition at its core. Some stories are part of a series the author writes, and I might try a few of their books just to get to know the characters or the town a little better.
Some of the stories had more depth than others, but all were an enjoyable read. There was a multitude of characters—family and friends and even some enemies and exes. There were some corpses but also injuries and illnesses. There were cities, towns, and villages, along with farms and various animals. There were a few twists and turns throughout. The cover is simplistic but conveys the Christmas season.
With twelve fabulous authors contributing to Deadly Traditions: A Cozy Mystery Christmas Anthology, set during the holiday season, how can you possibly go wrong? Sit back and relax and maybe nibble on a cookie or two!
https://novelsalive.com/2022/09/28/4-...
Deadly Traditions: A Cozy Mystery Christmas Anthology consists of twelve short stories penned by twelve new-to-me authors. Set in a variety of locales and even in different countries, they all have Christmas, amateur sleuths, and a mystery to be solved in common.
Each story was introduced with a short blurb which was a nice touch. The stories drew me in, introducing me to various characters and lots of amateurs sleuths who think they are helping the local police—some are, and some aren’t.
It was fun to figure out whodunnit with Christmas as the backdrop, but all the stories ended too abruptly, in my opinion. There were Santas, gingerbread houses, Christmas cookies galore, parties and get-togethers, a quaint Victorian town, caroling, holiday décor, and even a hayride, but all had the town’s traditions or a family’s tradition at its core. Some stories are part of a series the author writes, and I might try a few of their books just to get to know the characters or the town a little better.
Some of the stories had more depth than others, but all were an enjoyable read. There was a multitude of characters—family and friends and even some enemies and exes. There were some corpses but also injuries and illnesses. There were cities, towns, and villages, along with farms and various animals. There were a few twists and turns throughout. The cover is simplistic but conveys the Christmas season.
With twelve fabulous authors contributing to Deadly Traditions: A Cozy Mystery Christmas Anthology, set during the holiday season, how can you possibly go wrong? Sit back and relax and maybe nibble on a cookie or two!
September 19, 2022
This review is for two of the stories in the anthology. As these are short stories my reviews will be short and basic as I do not want to spoil things. A favorite thing with anthologies is reading new authors or reading from a series I am unfamiliar with. I read Christmas Card and Feathered by Mollie Cox Bryan and Mistletoe and Murder by Dianne Ascroft.
Christmas Card and Feathered is from the Victoria Town Mystery series. I am enchanted with the idea of a Victorian town so I was excited to read this story. Irene is preparing to host a card-making party at her shop, Mourning Arts, (isn't that a fabulous name?). When Viv brings news of a fellow shop keeper missing and a body is discovered, Irene and Viv try to figure out what is going on. The characters were likable and the mystery was good. I haven't read any books in this series and am interested in reading it. I have enjoyed other series by Mollie Cox Bryan.
Mistletoe and Murder is from the Century Cottage Mystery series. When a guest at a Christmas party dies it appears to be an accident. Things aren't always as they appear though. Marge takes the lead and begins asking questions with support from Lois. Was it an unfortunate accident or something more sinister? This is my first time reading from this series. Marge and Lois are likeable characters. I enjoyed the mystery. I do have a couple books from this series and plan to read those based on my enjoyment with this story.
I have pre-ordered this anthology and, after reading these two stories, I can't wait for its release!
Christmas Card and Feathered is from the Victoria Town Mystery series. I am enchanted with the idea of a Victorian town so I was excited to read this story. Irene is preparing to host a card-making party at her shop, Mourning Arts, (isn't that a fabulous name?). When Viv brings news of a fellow shop keeper missing and a body is discovered, Irene and Viv try to figure out what is going on. The characters were likable and the mystery was good. I haven't read any books in this series and am interested in reading it. I have enjoyed other series by Mollie Cox Bryan.
Mistletoe and Murder is from the Century Cottage Mystery series. When a guest at a Christmas party dies it appears to be an accident. Things aren't always as they appear though. Marge takes the lead and begins asking questions with support from Lois. Was it an unfortunate accident or something more sinister? This is my first time reading from this series. Marge and Lois are likeable characters. I enjoyed the mystery. I do have a couple books from this series and plan to read those based on my enjoyment with this story.
I have pre-ordered this anthology and, after reading these two stories, I can't wait for its release!
September 25, 2022
Deadly Traditions: A Cozy Mystery Christmas Anthology is a collection of cozy mystery stories.
Christmas Card and Feathered (Victoria Town Mysteries) by Mollie Cox Bryan - 4 stars
If you haven’t read the Victoria Town Mysteries, this is a good introduction to the series. If you’re familiar with the series, this is a nice addition to it. You’ll be ready for hot chocolate and making Christmas cards.
Killing the Carol (Grave Theatrics) by Sam Cheever - 5 stars
I’ve read several books by Sam Cheever, but I wasn’t aware of this series. This was an entertaining mystery and I definitely want to read more stories with May, Eddie, Argh, and sweet Shakespeare.
Have Yourself a Scary Little Christmas (Ghostly Fashionista Mystery) by Gayle Leeson - 5 stars
Max was asked about her Christmas traditions including telling ghost stories. She told a ghost story that led to a mystery. I enjoyed this story, but think that is a tradition I’m glad we don’t follow.
I have a copy of the book pre-ordered and will review the rest of the stories when I get the book.
I received an Advanced Reader Copy (ARC) of this book and I am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
Christmas Card and Feathered (Victoria Town Mysteries) by Mollie Cox Bryan - 4 stars
If you haven’t read the Victoria Town Mysteries, this is a good introduction to the series. If you’re familiar with the series, this is a nice addition to it. You’ll be ready for hot chocolate and making Christmas cards.
Killing the Carol (Grave Theatrics) by Sam Cheever - 5 stars
I’ve read several books by Sam Cheever, but I wasn’t aware of this series. This was an entertaining mystery and I definitely want to read more stories with May, Eddie, Argh, and sweet Shakespeare.
Have Yourself a Scary Little Christmas (Ghostly Fashionista Mystery) by Gayle Leeson - 5 stars
Max was asked about her Christmas traditions including telling ghost stories. She told a ghost story that led to a mystery. I enjoyed this story, but think that is a tradition I’m glad we don’t follow.
I have a copy of the book pre-ordered and will review the rest of the stories when I get the book.
I received an Advanced Reader Copy (ARC) of this book and I am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
September 28, 2022
Cozy Mystery Christmas Anthology . . .
“Killing the Carol”, actually part of Sam Cheever’s GRAVE THEATRICS COZY MYSTERY series, is the author’s contribution to the DEADLY TRADITIONS Multi-Author Anthology. There are so many wonderful stories included there. Below is a quick review of one of them to give you an idea of what’s included in this variety of stories.
*** Reviewing “KILLING THE CAROL” by Sam Cheever ***
Carol Ling, the leader of the Theatrics group, is participating in a caroling show when she is murdered, strangled with the ties on her velvet cape. May Ferth and her PI boyfriend, Eddie Dietz, are on the case immediately to find the killer. Add in the help from her Pomeranian, Shakespeare, and they are hot on the trail to get justice for Carol. Of course, you know that May will get into some trouble! The twists and turns are numerous and clever. By the time the author stops spinning the reader around, the identity of the bad guy will be an absolutely surprise!
Grab your copy of this limited edition Anthology to enjoy this story and the many others that are included for your entertainment. You won’t regret it!
“Killing the Carol”, actually part of Sam Cheever’s GRAVE THEATRICS COZY MYSTERY series, is the author’s contribution to the DEADLY TRADITIONS Multi-Author Anthology. There are so many wonderful stories included there. Below is a quick review of one of them to give you an idea of what’s included in this variety of stories.
*** Reviewing “KILLING THE CAROL” by Sam Cheever ***
Carol Ling, the leader of the Theatrics group, is participating in a caroling show when she is murdered, strangled with the ties on her velvet cape. May Ferth and her PI boyfriend, Eddie Dietz, are on the case immediately to find the killer. Add in the help from her Pomeranian, Shakespeare, and they are hot on the trail to get justice for Carol. Of course, you know that May will get into some trouble! The twists and turns are numerous and clever. By the time the author stops spinning the reader around, the identity of the bad guy will be an absolutely surprise!
Grab your copy of this limited edition Anthology to enjoy this story and the many others that are included for your entertainment. You won’t regret it!
October 1, 2022
Killing the Carol by Sam Cheever
Oh, my goodness. So love this story, had to read it for the second time. You will find this with a group of other stories in a book of Anthology. I'm sure they are just as good. But Sam Cheever did an amazing job on this Christmas story.
Carol Ling, what a name. but this story not about her name as much as it is about who killed her. But it does make you wonder why her parents named her this, they had to know she would get picked on during the holidays. Oh back to the reason she was killed. This is what we are here to do.
My boyfriend and partner in a P.I. company is here to figure this out before the killer is gone or kills again. Did I mention we have a peculiar dog name Shakespeare (I know) that helps us, special in his way. Smile...
During this investigation we came across some interesting neighbors who would have you going MMMMM.... As you shake your head.
I was so surprise and didn't expect who the killer was. Well done.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Oh, my goodness. So love this story, had to read it for the second time. You will find this with a group of other stories in a book of Anthology. I'm sure they are just as good. But Sam Cheever did an amazing job on this Christmas story.
Carol Ling, what a name. but this story not about her name as much as it is about who killed her. But it does make you wonder why her parents named her this, they had to know she would get picked on during the holidays. Oh back to the reason she was killed. This is what we are here to do.
My boyfriend and partner in a P.I. company is here to figure this out before the killer is gone or kills again. Did I mention we have a peculiar dog name Shakespeare (I know) that helps us, special in his way. Smile...
During this investigation we came across some interesting neighbors who would have you going MMMMM.... As you shake your head.
I was so surprise and didn't expect who the killer was. Well done.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 11, 2022
"Have Yourself a Scary Little Christmas" by Gayle Leeson is a gem of a story found within this multi-author anthology. It's a story that Maxine, the fashionista ghost from the Ghostly Fashionista Mystery series, relates from her childhood. It's a delightful period piece about Christmas many years ago when Max and her sister Dot were young girls. The book seamlessly flows from the present to a story about a haunted house from Max's father's youth and into the Christmas season years later. Good characters that were portrayed perfectly for the times came alive as Max uses humor and a range of emotions in the story.
This is the perfect length for lunch hours, waiting for children's activities to be over, or just a little time carved out to relax with a cup of tea in a comfy chair. I found it enchanting and just the right touch of mystery and mayhem added to a family Christmas story.
This is the perfect length for lunch hours, waiting for children's activities to be over, or just a little time carved out to relax with a cup of tea in a comfy chair. I found it enchanting and just the right touch of mystery and mayhem added to a family Christmas story.
September 16, 2022
Killing the Carol by Sam Cheever is part of the Grave Theatrics Cozy Mystery series that is being offered as a part of the DEADLY TRADITIONS Multi-Author Anthology. It’s a short murder mystery novella. Carol Ling is murdered while caroling. May and her PI boyfriend Eddie are trying to investigate it even after her detective brother, Argh tells her to back off. She ends up in trouble and has to give Argh a cryptic message and hope he figures it out. Will he be able to save her in time? I have only read this book and not the full Anthology, so this review is only for Killing the Carol. This is a nice introduction to the Grave Theatrics series, and I look forward to reading it.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 21, 2022
This review is for Sam Cheever's Killing the Carol which I got a copy of from Booksprout
This is the first book I have read in the Grave Theatrics series, but it didn't matter to my understanding of the story. May is part of a Theatrics group which is putting on a caroling show when the leader of the group, Carol Ling (yep, that's her name. Her mother must not have liked her either.), is murdered. The rest of the story involves her and her boyfriend, Eddie, running around trying to find the killer; no matter that her brother is a cop and wants her to stay out of it. Her Pomeranian, Shakespeare, is her constant companion and barely manages to not get himself killed when the murderer....oops, can't tell you that! Cute story. I hope I get to read more of the series.
This is the first book I have read in the Grave Theatrics series, but it didn't matter to my understanding of the story. May is part of a Theatrics group which is putting on a caroling show when the leader of the group, Carol Ling (yep, that's her name. Her mother must not have liked her either.), is murdered. The rest of the story involves her and her boyfriend, Eddie, running around trying to find the killer; no matter that her brother is a cop and wants her to stay out of it. Her Pomeranian, Shakespeare, is her constant companion and barely manages to not get himself killed when the murderer....oops, can't tell you that! Cute story. I hope I get to read more of the series.
September 26, 2022
This is my review for "Larceny and Gingerbread Lattes"!
I absolutely love the coffee truck cozy mystery series! This novella was simple but intriguing. I love the small town feel to the series and adding Christmas to it with the town's special gingerbread house contest was the whipped cream on my mug of hot cocoa!
Hazel is definitely the best part of the series! Her quirky way of "playing cop" is so relatable (as a fellow crime show junky) and just how much she cares about the town (and the people in it) is inspiring. I'm so excited for the next installment of this series to come out and see what crime Hazel helps solve next! Also, can we acknowledge that the addition of Nico to this series and his banter with (and obvious feelings for) Hazel makes each story even better?!
I absolutely love the coffee truck cozy mystery series! This novella was simple but intriguing. I love the small town feel to the series and adding Christmas to it with the town's special gingerbread house contest was the whipped cream on my mug of hot cocoa!
Hazel is definitely the best part of the series! Her quirky way of "playing cop" is so relatable (as a fellow crime show junky) and just how much she cares about the town (and the people in it) is inspiring. I'm so excited for the next installment of this series to come out and see what crime Hazel helps solve next! Also, can we acknowledge that the addition of Nico to this series and his banter with (and obvious feelings for) Hazel makes each story even better?!
September 16, 2022
This is my review of “Larceny and Gingerbread Lattes” written by Justine Maxwell.
Hazel, her mom and grandmother own and operate The Busy Bean, brick and mortar coffee shop, and Bean Around Town, mobile coffee bar. Their business is very successful and they were asked to provide hot beverages during the Pine Lakes Annual Gingerbread House Competition. Everything is going well at the competition until the big reveal of the winners. The whole crowd is amazed at what is revealed! Can Hazel solve the mystery before the police?
I really enjoyed getting to know the people of Pine Lakes and following along as Hazel investigates.
Hazel, her mom and grandmother own and operate The Busy Bean, brick and mortar coffee shop, and Bean Around Town, mobile coffee bar. Their business is very successful and they were asked to provide hot beverages during the Pine Lakes Annual Gingerbread House Competition. Everything is going well at the competition until the big reveal of the winners. The whole crowd is amazed at what is revealed! Can Hazel solve the mystery before the police?
I really enjoyed getting to know the people of Pine Lakes and following along as Hazel investigates.
September 16, 2022
In Larceny and Gingerbread Lattes by Justine Maxwell, Hazel cannot let a mystery pass her by without at least asking a few questions. She has a sharp mind and is constantly thinking. Hazel enjoys her coffee truck, and she also loves a good mystery – but she hates not being able to solve it right away. There is an attraction between Hazel and her brother’s partner, Nico, but that is moving slowly, with the sleuthing taking first place. Hazel’s brother and Nico do not want Hazel to get in harm’s way, so that causes some mild friction, but does not stop Hazel. This is a fun series, and I really enjoyed this book.
September 25, 2022
Killing the Carol by Sam Cheever
A novella in the Grave Theatrics Cozy Mystery series. This story contains a delightfully twisty little mystery that has May, Eddie, and Shakespeare chasing their tails all over town as they try to figure out who killed the committee head for the caroling event. All the red herrings kept me guessing the whole way through, to the point that the revelation of the villain came as quite the surprise to me. So far, I’ve loved everything I’ve ever read from this author so I already can’t wait to get my hands on whatever’s coming next.
I received a complimentary advanced copy of this story through Booksprout.
A novella in the Grave Theatrics Cozy Mystery series. This story contains a delightfully twisty little mystery that has May, Eddie, and Shakespeare chasing their tails all over town as they try to figure out who killed the committee head for the caroling event. All the red herrings kept me guessing the whole way through, to the point that the revelation of the villain came as quite the surprise to me. So far, I’ve loved everything I’ve ever read from this author so I already can’t wait to get my hands on whatever’s coming next.
I received a complimentary advanced copy of this story through Booksprout.
September 28, 2022
Festive stories!
I read the stories by Justine Maxwell, Sam Cheever, Estelle Richards, Erin Scoggins and Dianne Ascroft. Great stories to get in that festive mood!
Justine Maxwell Larceny and Gingerbread Lattes - 5 stars - great story, highly recommend!
Sam Cheever Killing the Carol - 5 stars - so good, such fun!
Estelle Richards O Deadly Night - 4.5 stars - intriguing, pleasant to read
Erin Scoggins A Pickle in a Pear Tree - 4.5 stars - enjoyable, easy-to-read
Dianne Ascroft Mistletoe and Murder - 5 stars - suspenseful, well-written story!
I’ll edit my review once I’ve read more!
I read the stories by Justine Maxwell, Sam Cheever, Estelle Richards, Erin Scoggins and Dianne Ascroft. Great stories to get in that festive mood!
Justine Maxwell Larceny and Gingerbread Lattes - 5 stars - great story, highly recommend!
Sam Cheever Killing the Carol - 5 stars - so good, such fun!
Estelle Richards O Deadly Night - 4.5 stars - intriguing, pleasant to read
Erin Scoggins A Pickle in a Pear Tree - 4.5 stars - enjoyable, easy-to-read
Dianne Ascroft Mistletoe and Murder - 5 stars - suspenseful, well-written story!
I’ll edit my review once I’ve read more!
September 24, 2022
I am reviewing the story by Justine Maxwell titled "Larceny and Gingerbread Lattes".
This is the first book (story) I've read in this particular series.
I really had fun with this! Someone has destroyed a gingerbread house!
The owner of a local coffee vendor is leading the charge to find out who the culprit is. I loved her character as she was a spitfire who has attitude!
Will she find the destroyer of gingerbread houses or will she not? You'll have to read it to find out.
I received an ARC of this story and am leaving my review voluntarily.
This is the first book (story) I've read in this particular series.
I really had fun with this! Someone has destroyed a gingerbread house!
The owner of a local coffee vendor is leading the charge to find out who the culprit is. I loved her character as she was a spitfire who has attitude!
Will she find the destroyer of gingerbread houses or will she not? You'll have to read it to find out.
I received an ARC of this story and am leaving my review voluntarily.
October 8, 2022
I received a free copy of Larceny and Gingerbread Lattes from the author directly in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.
I really enjoyed reading Larceny and Gingerbread Lattes by Justine Maxwell. Even though its novella length I felt like the author did a great job in building the mystery up. The characters and town setting are so fun, you'll want to keep revisiting them in future books. Based on this book alone, I'd definitely pick up a copy of this collection.
I really enjoyed reading Larceny and Gingerbread Lattes by Justine Maxwell. Even though its novella length I felt like the author did a great job in building the mystery up. The characters and town setting are so fun, you'll want to keep revisiting them in future books. Based on this book alone, I'd definitely pick up a copy of this collection.
September 10, 2022
I am reviewing “Have Yourself a Scary Little Christmas” by Gayle Leeson, one if the stories in this compilation. This is a quick reading Ghost Story from Max the ghost. She haunts a current day boutique in what used to be her living room. She relates a Christmas story from her own life to the handful of people who can see her and converse with her. Fun story. I was provided a copy by the author. This is my honest review.
September 10, 2022
I received a copy of Have Yourself a Scary Little Christmas by Gayle Leeson. I absolutely love her ghostly fashionista cozies and this one was fabulous! I really enjoyed that it was being told by Max, who happens to be a ghost, and takes you back to her childhood on a Christmas Eve. It was a wonderful story and full of action and suspense. I hope there are many more ghostly fashionista mysteries to come!
September 18, 2022
I read Mollie Cox Bryan's Christmas Card and Feathered from this anthology and enjoyed being back in Victoria Town with Viv, Irene and Aunt Libby. When a local business owner's body is found in Mourning Arts, Irene and Viv want to help the police solve the murder. Fans of short stories will enjoy this well written mystery.
I received a complimentary copy of this short story from the author. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
I received a complimentary copy of this short story from the author. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
September 19, 2022
My review is for “Larceny & Gingerbread Lattes” by Justine Maxwell
I loved this fun-filled, festive small town mystery. The characters are authentic with depth and traits that blend and flow, transforming into genuinely relatable personalities. The scenes are strikingly sharp with abundant details and descriptions creating a colorful backdrop that makes the storyline pop. Grab yourself a latte and a cozy blanket to read this Christmas mystery.
I loved this fun-filled, festive small town mystery. The characters are authentic with depth and traits that blend and flow, transforming into genuinely relatable personalities. The scenes are strikingly sharp with abundant details and descriptions creating a colorful backdrop that makes the storyline pop. Grab yourself a latte and a cozy blanket to read this Christmas mystery.
September 26, 2022
Larceny and Gingerbread Lattes by Justine Maxwell
When a gingerbread house competition ends with the winning house destroyed, the police are not terribly interested in solving the case. Hazel, on the other hand is determined to find out what happened to cause the destruction of a beautiful gingerbread house, and she soon discovers more than she ever imagined. This quick read is an entertaining and engaging book.
When a gingerbread house competition ends with the winning house destroyed, the police are not terribly interested in solving the case. Hazel, on the other hand is determined to find out what happened to cause the destruction of a beautiful gingerbread house, and she soon discovers more than she ever imagined. This quick read is an entertaining and engaging book.
September 28, 2022
This review is for Larceny and Gingerbread Lattes by Justine Maxwell. Hazel now has a coffee and latte truck to make their business more flexible and gets caught up in a crime after catering at a gingerbread contest. Of course, instead of leaving the investigation to her brother that is a cop, Hazel has to do some investigating on her own and try to stay out of trouble. Not easy for her. Great story!
October 6, 2022
Larceny and Gingerbread Lattes was adorable! Hazel has her Bean Around Town VW bus selling hot beverages at the Pine Lakes Annual Gingerbread House Competition, when the winning house is mysteriously smashed! Hazel immediately has her suspects in mind, the second place winner who had hoped to claim her 10th win and one of the judges who disapproved of the winning house. But were they really angry enough to smash a gingerbread house?
It soon becomes clear that the smashed gingerbread house was a distraction to keep the police away from the real crime. Will Hazel, her brother Ryan and his police partner Nico be able to solve the mystery before anything else is stolen?
I can't wait to read the rest of the cozy mysteries featured in Deadly Traditions!
I received a free copy of Larceny and Gingerbread Lattes and am voluntarily providing my honest review.
It soon becomes clear that the smashed gingerbread house was a distraction to keep the police away from the real crime. Will Hazel, her brother Ryan and his police partner Nico be able to solve the mystery before anything else is stolen?
I can't wait to read the rest of the cozy mysteries featured in Deadly Traditions!
I received a free copy of Larceny and Gingerbread Lattes and am voluntarily providing my honest review.
October 7, 2022
"Larceny and Gingerbread Lattes" by Justine Maxwell is a delightful mystery - no bodies - involving a gingerbread house contest. Hazel hears things selling coffee from the Busy Bean mobile truck - can she help find the culprit? A great read for a lazy evening, even a little hint of romance. - I received an ARC for this story and freely leave an honest review. I'm looking forward to the whole Deadly Traditions anthology!
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