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Dr. Maxwell Thornton Murder Mysteries #5
It's a Wonderful Knife
It's beginning to look a lot like murder.
Chopping down a Christmas tree has never been something Dr. Maxwell Thornton aspired to. But his boyfriend, Sheriff Royce Callum, has a tradition of visiting Giggly Elves Tree Farm every Christmas to do just that.
Trying to prove he’s a team player, Maxwell agrees to accompany Royce on his week-long tree-felling adventure. It’s a chance to spend some quality time with Royce, and also get a break from Rainy Dale.
All guests are required to turn in their cell phones upon arrival because Giggly Elves Farm is for people who yearn to escape modern-day stresses. Maxwell endures a lumpy mattress and high sodium meals of bacon, beans, and more bacon, with a fairly good attitude. But when a freak storm washes out the road back home, Maxwell begins to feel the strain.
Things turn downright terrifying when a guest is found stabbed to death in the reindeer barn, and all of the cell phones are found destroyed. It seems there’s a murderer on the loose, and he or she has a very different interpretation of how to bring out the holiday spirit in others.
Chopping down a Christmas tree has never been something Dr. Maxwell Thornton aspired to. But his boyfriend, Sheriff Royce Callum, has a tradition of visiting Giggly Elves Tree Farm every Christmas to do just that.
Trying to prove he’s a team player, Maxwell agrees to accompany Royce on his week-long tree-felling adventure. It’s a chance to spend some quality time with Royce, and also get a break from Rainy Dale.
All guests are required to turn in their cell phones upon arrival because Giggly Elves Farm is for people who yearn to escape modern-day stresses. Maxwell endures a lumpy mattress and high sodium meals of bacon, beans, and more bacon, with a fairly good attitude. But when a freak storm washes out the road back home, Maxwell begins to feel the strain.
Things turn downright terrifying when a guest is found stabbed to death in the reindeer barn, and all of the cell phones are found destroyed. It seems there’s a murderer on the loose, and he or she has a very different interpretation of how to bring out the holiday spirit in others.
311 pages, Paperback
First published December 12, 2021
38 people are currently reading
124 people want to read
About the author
S.C. Wynne
67 books588 followersS.C. Wynne is a Lambda Award-winning author for Gay Romance. S.C. started writing m/m romance and mystery in 2013. Her characters are usually a little jaded, funny, and ultimately redeemed through love.
If you’d like to contact S.C. Wynne she'd love to hear from you. You can contact her at scwynne@scwynne.com
If you’d like to contact S.C. Wynne she'd love to hear from you. You can contact her at scwynne@scwynne.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 75 reviews
September 23, 2024
Maxwell va con Royce y un grupo del pueblo a un paseo para una granja a cortar su propio árbol de Navidad y disfrutar de unas pequeñas vacaciones pre-navideñas. Pero Max no lo esta pasando bien en el viaje, y cuando uno de los huéspedes de la posada aparece muerto, parece que las "vacaciones" se volvieron trabajo para Royce. Para empeorar las cosas, quedan incomunicados por una fuerte tormenta, y solo la experiencia y liderazgo de Royce puede ayudarlos a encontrar a quien cometió el asesinato. Pero, serán capaces de descubrir quien es el asesino entre ellos? Como lograrán identificarlo? Cuando podrán salir de ahí?
Este libro es un claro ejemplo de como los autores logran que el lector se mantenga adivinando durante toda la historia. Sin embargo, las pistas estaban ahí, unas mas claras que otras, y si se vuelve a leer el libro las puedes ver.
Nuestros protas, no tienen mucho protagonismo en este libro, aunque Royce y Max fueron los que se "encargaron" de descubrir el asesino, realmente se robo el protagonismo la relación de la familia dueña de la posada. Personalmente estaba mas interesada en el drama entre Mona y Leo, o en la relación de Rayne y Lucas, que en quien era el asesino.
En fin, este libro fue mas de drama externo que otra cosa, pero quiero saber como se sigue desarrollando la relación entre nuestros protas, así que voy a continuar con la lectura de la serie.
Este libro es un claro ejemplo de como los autores logran que el lector se mantenga adivinando durante toda la historia. Sin embargo, las pistas estaban ahí, unas mas claras que otras, y si se vuelve a leer el libro las puedes ver.
Nuestros protas, no tienen mucho protagonismo en este libro, aunque Royce y Max fueron los que se "encargaron" de descubrir el asesino, realmente se robo el protagonismo la relación de la familia dueña de la posada. Personalmente estaba mas interesada en el drama entre Mona y Leo, o en la relación de Rayne y Lucas, que en quien era el asesino.
En fin, este libro fue mas de drama externo que otra cosa, pero quiero saber como se sigue desarrollando la relación entre nuestros protas, así que voy a continuar con la lectura de la serie.
January 29, 2022
After reading two rather enjoyable books in this series, I had high hopes for this one. Unfortunately, this installment in the series was not so good.
This book tskes us outside the town in which the series takes place. The main characters take a bus ride (?) to an isolated Christmas tree farm in order to cut down their own tree. This brings up the question of how a busload of people who cut down their own Christmas trees can get the trees back to their hometown. Obviously, there's no room on the bus. Another inconsistency with the plot is that the MC who's a sheriff did not bring his gun because he didn't feel there was a need to do so. Yet, near the end of the book when a violent turn takes place, he pulls out a gun. Now these books are written through the alternating voices of the two main characters. So, when it was mentioned that the sheriff had not brought his gun, it may have been the OTHER character who brought it up. But, I don't think so. It's just sloppy writing.
This particular author drops books online quite frequently. She writes several series. In the third book in this series in my review I mentioned that the book read like it was written by two different people. Is S.C. Wynne a real person or is this a name used by a conglomerate to crank out books on a frequent basis? The writing is uneven and the events that take place in the books are often illogical. There is something to be said about well-established publishing houses. They have a sense of professionalism that self-publishing entities lack. This series (and maybe all the books written by S. C. Wynne) are published by Wynne Wynne Publishing. I don't know that S. C. Wynne couldn't get a reputable publisher to publish her books but I can say that Wynne Wynne Publishing does not hold a very high standard to what they release to the public to read. It seems that the desire to keep a steady stream of non-taxing books filtering onto Amazon is greater than a sincere concern to place something more than substandard stories into the hands of readers.
It's January and where I live we just had our third snowstorm. I am retired and don't drive. Sometimes I like to read what I refer to as bon-bon books, low nutritious books that lend a bit of sunshine to an otherwise drab moment in time. Let's face it: January is a month a lot of us could do without and we all have times when we indulge in guilty pleasures to brighten our days. The Dr. Maxwell Thornton Murder Mysteries is a light, albeit, uneven escape. For this reason alone, they serve a purpose. But, even at that, It's a Wonderful Knife is poorly written and lacking evenly consistent writing.
This book tskes us outside the town in which the series takes place. The main characters take a bus ride (?) to an isolated Christmas tree farm in order to cut down their own tree. This brings up the question of how a busload of people who cut down their own Christmas trees can get the trees back to their hometown. Obviously, there's no room on the bus. Another inconsistency with the plot is that the MC who's a sheriff did not bring his gun because he didn't feel there was a need to do so. Yet, near the end of the book when a violent turn takes place, he pulls out a gun. Now these books are written through the alternating voices of the two main characters. So, when it was mentioned that the sheriff had not brought his gun, it may have been the OTHER character who brought it up. But, I don't think so. It's just sloppy writing.
This particular author drops books online quite frequently. She writes several series. In the third book in this series in my review I mentioned that the book read like it was written by two different people. Is S.C. Wynne a real person or is this a name used by a conglomerate to crank out books on a frequent basis? The writing is uneven and the events that take place in the books are often illogical. There is something to be said about well-established publishing houses. They have a sense of professionalism that self-publishing entities lack. This series (and maybe all the books written by S. C. Wynne) are published by Wynne Wynne Publishing. I don't know that S. C. Wynne couldn't get a reputable publisher to publish her books but I can say that Wynne Wynne Publishing does not hold a very high standard to what they release to the public to read. It seems that the desire to keep a steady stream of non-taxing books filtering onto Amazon is greater than a sincere concern to place something more than substandard stories into the hands of readers.
It's January and where I live we just had our third snowstorm. I am retired and don't drive. Sometimes I like to read what I refer to as bon-bon books, low nutritious books that lend a bit of sunshine to an otherwise drab moment in time. Let's face it: January is a month a lot of us could do without and we all have times when we indulge in guilty pleasures to brighten our days. The Dr. Maxwell Thornton Murder Mysteries is a light, albeit, uneven escape. For this reason alone, they serve a purpose. But, even at that, It's a Wonderful Knife is poorly written and lacking evenly consistent writing.
December 20, 2021
5 Stars!!!
This series keeps getting better and better with each new book! In case you haven't, you need to start with Strange Medicine and read the books in order. It's a great series to binge on, I swear!
Max is trying so hard to suppress his natural inclination to avoid interacting with people or snap at them—which makes me relate with him so much—to make Royce happy as they travel to the Giggly Elves Tree Farm to cut a Christmas tree. He is definitely my favorite and was a great asset in helping Royce during his investigation when one of the other guests at the farm turns up dead in the reindeer barn. Royce was great, too, and I loved seeing him and Max in action. Their relationship keeps growing and the intimacy and small gestures each has with the other had me smiling like a loon. I just love them together!
I absolutely hate River and I'm holding out my judgment over Lucas, but the little teaser at the end of what's to come in the next book, makes me want to throttle them both.
The case was really interesting. I was absolutely riveted with all the twists and turns as I tried to deduce who the killer was, and I didn't see it coming at all!
Overall, I think this is now my favorite installment so far. Not only did we get to see how well Max and Royce are doing relationship-wise, but we got a fascinating case to enjoy. May can come soon enough for Kiss Marry Kill!
*** Copy provided by the author for my reading pleasure, a review wasn't a requirement. ***
This series keeps getting better and better with each new book! In case you haven't, you need to start with Strange Medicine and read the books in order. It's a great series to binge on, I swear!
Max is trying so hard to suppress his natural inclination to avoid interacting with people or snap at them—which makes me relate with him so much—to make Royce happy as they travel to the Giggly Elves Tree Farm to cut a Christmas tree. He is definitely my favorite and was a great asset in helping Royce during his investigation when one of the other guests at the farm turns up dead in the reindeer barn. Royce was great, too, and I loved seeing him and Max in action. Their relationship keeps growing and the intimacy and small gestures each has with the other had me smiling like a loon. I just love them together!
I absolutely hate River and I'm holding out my judgment over Lucas, but the little teaser at the end of what's to come in the next book, makes me want to throttle them both.
The case was really interesting. I was absolutely riveted with all the twists and turns as I tried to deduce who the killer was, and I didn't see it coming at all!
Overall, I think this is now my favorite installment so far. Not only did we get to see how well Max and Royce are doing relationship-wise, but we got a fascinating case to enjoy. May can come soon enough for Kiss Marry Kill!
*** Copy provided by the author for my reading pleasure, a review wasn't a requirement. ***
December 22, 2021
Vacation
Wonderful continuing of the lives of Royce and Max. Loved all of the suspense on the the unfortunate trip to a tree farm. I am so loving that Royce and Max are together and trying with one another.
I do recommend you read in order.
Wonderful continuing of the lives of Royce and Max. Loved all of the suspense on the the unfortunate trip to a tree farm. I am so loving that Royce and Max are together and trying with one another.
I do recommend you read in order.
Currently reading
December 11, 2021It's coming December 21 2021! The book is off to the editor and I can't wait for you guys to read it.
December 22, 2021
So Good to be Back in Maxwell’s World
It was so good to be back in the world of Max and Royce, I had really missed Dr Maxwell Thornton. This is book 5 in the series and it starts with Royce taking Max away for a week, along with some of the Rainy Dale residents, to a Christmas tree farm call Giggly Elves. They are on a rickety old bus, Max and Royce didn’t get to sit together and Max is trying so hard to be a better person for Royce. He is biting his tongue and being more tolerant but we are still treated to his sharp and cutting wit as his thoughts are written in.
Max didn’t have high hopes for the week but the events that unfolded were far worse than his nightmares. We were treated to a fast paced who done it where all the guests, owners and farm workers were cut off due to horrendous storms which brought the only bridge down. Telephone and Wi-Fi was cut off, literally cut! And poor Royce as Sheriff found he had a murder to solve with no back up or forensics.
This book was so entertaining as well as murder there were other sub plots to solve and I did not guess the murderer. Max and Royce really have got their relationship back on track and it was so lovely to see Max opening up and when he told Royce that he loved him I could have cried. Max has never been told or told anyone that before. His cold and unemotional parents shaped him into the socially awkward person he is but Royce is peeling back his layers.
I can’t wait for book 6 and I just have to say that I hate River Martin!
It was so good to be back in the world of Max and Royce, I had really missed Dr Maxwell Thornton. This is book 5 in the series and it starts with Royce taking Max away for a week, along with some of the Rainy Dale residents, to a Christmas tree farm call Giggly Elves. They are on a rickety old bus, Max and Royce didn’t get to sit together and Max is trying so hard to be a better person for Royce. He is biting his tongue and being more tolerant but we are still treated to his sharp and cutting wit as his thoughts are written in.
Max didn’t have high hopes for the week but the events that unfolded were far worse than his nightmares. We were treated to a fast paced who done it where all the guests, owners and farm workers were cut off due to horrendous storms which brought the only bridge down. Telephone and Wi-Fi was cut off, literally cut! And poor Royce as Sheriff found he had a murder to solve with no back up or forensics.
This book was so entertaining as well as murder there were other sub plots to solve and I did not guess the murderer. Max and Royce really have got their relationship back on track and it was so lovely to see Max opening up and when he told Royce that he loved him I could have cried. Max has never been told or told anyone that before. His cold and unemotional parents shaped him into the socially awkward person he is but Royce is peeling back his layers.
I can’t wait for book 6 and I just have to say that I hate River Martin!
March 19, 2022
This festive seasonal whodunnit has our MCs Royce and Max trapped in isolation with a killer on the loose ... something that has been done before (just not in the December period) by other authors ... Emery and John-Henry in Transposition or Kit and J.X. in All She Wrote. It was nice seeing Max making some effort to 'get along' with others whilst still being his curmudgeonly self - and the isolated locale provided opportunities for our MCs to 'work together' in keeping others safe whilst tracking down the killer.
Birdy's presence was rather wasted IMO as she wasn't really given much to do. And whilst they say it's better to keep one's enemies close, I'm not entirely sure why the author decided to have River and Lucas tag-along other than to be thorns in Max's side 3.5 stars rounded up to 4.
Birdy's presence was rather wasted IMO as she wasn't really given much to do. And whilst they say it's better to keep one's enemies close, I'm not entirely sure why the author decided to have River and Lucas tag-along other than to be thorns in Max's side 3.5 stars rounded up to 4.
April 11, 2022
3.25 Stars
It’s a Wonderful Knife, the fifth book in S.C. Wynne’s ‘Dr. Maxwell Thornton Murder Mysteries’ series, is the first book of the series to disappoint.
The problem is perfectly summed up by Maxwell himself when he tells his boyfriend, Sheriff Royce Callum, “There are too many people and no way to know where anyone was at any given moment.”
The developing relationship between Max and Royce is now firmly established. That part of the series could not have been better. Max is trying his best to be more open - even agreeing to accompany Royce on Royce's annual Christmas excursion to cut their own Christmas tree.
Unfortunately, the mystery of the murders at the Giggly Elves Tree Farm and Bed and Breakfast is, for the first time in this series, pretty naive. There is way too much amateur psychoanalysis going on. And somehow terms such as “Golly” and “Oh, geez” have found their way into serious dialogue.
The one thing that is certain is that homeopathic physician, Dr. River Martin, is doing everything he can to force Maxwell to leave town, and Maxwell is not about to let River get what he wants.
The teaser for Kiss Marry Kill, the next and perhaps final volume in the series, makes it clear that particular plot element will come to a head. My bet is on Max.
It’s a Wonderful Knife, the fifth book in S.C. Wynne’s ‘Dr. Maxwell Thornton Murder Mysteries’ series, is the first book of the series to disappoint.
The problem is perfectly summed up by Maxwell himself when he tells his boyfriend, Sheriff Royce Callum, “There are too many people and no way to know where anyone was at any given moment.”
The developing relationship between Max and Royce is now firmly established. That part of the series could not have been better. Max is trying his best to be more open - even agreeing to accompany Royce on Royce's annual Christmas excursion to cut their own Christmas tree.
Unfortunately, the mystery of the murders at the Giggly Elves Tree Farm and Bed and Breakfast is, for the first time in this series, pretty naive. There is way too much amateur psychoanalysis going on. And somehow terms such as “Golly” and “Oh, geez” have found their way into serious dialogue.
The one thing that is certain is that homeopathic physician, Dr. River Martin, is doing everything he can to force Maxwell to leave town, and Maxwell is not about to let River get what he wants.
The teaser for Kiss Marry Kill, the next and perhaps final volume in the series, makes it clear that particular plot element will come to a head. My bet is on Max.
January 20, 2022
Entertaining mystery will keep you guessing
I enjoy this series so much and it kills me to have to wait for each book to come out!
I was so excited to get the notice that my pre-order on this book had dropped. I read it in one sitting. I just adore grumpy Max and the kind and patient Royce. Both MCs are more likeable now that they are back together. I’ve always had a soft spot for Max for some reason but Royce could annoy me at times. Not in this book though.
The setting is one of your standard Murder mystery format. We meet a bunch of characters, many of whom are unlikeable and many of whom have reasons to want other characters dead. Then one turns up dead and the rest of the group is stranded with no way to leave and no way to communicate with the outside world.
There are lots of cleverly devised red herrings and there are a couple of sub plots that I think most readers will figure out but that won’t interfere with your enjoyment of the story.
As is the case in the previous books, this book ends with a scene that sets up the next book. Not a cliffhanger to this story but a cliffhanger in the sense that you want to know what is going to happen next. I’m so annoyed I have to wait until May (5 months from now!) to find out!
I enjoy this series so much and it kills me to have to wait for each book to come out!
I was so excited to get the notice that my pre-order on this book had dropped. I read it in one sitting. I just adore grumpy Max and the kind and patient Royce. Both MCs are more likeable now that they are back together. I’ve always had a soft spot for Max for some reason but Royce could annoy me at times. Not in this book though.
The setting is one of your standard Murder mystery format. We meet a bunch of characters, many of whom are unlikeable and many of whom have reasons to want other characters dead. Then one turns up dead and the rest of the group is stranded with no way to leave and no way to communicate with the outside world.
There are lots of cleverly devised red herrings and there are a couple of sub plots that I think most readers will figure out but that won’t interfere with your enjoyment of the story.
As is the case in the previous books, this book ends with a scene that sets up the next book. Not a cliffhanger to this story but a cliffhanger in the sense that you want to know what is going to happen next. I’m so annoyed I have to wait until May (5 months from now!) to find out!
December 24, 2021
There’s a lot to like about this story— a compelling mystery, of course, and a chance to see Max and Royce at a point in their relationship where all the little pieces of their dynamic feel almost perfectly set into place. In terms of plot and character enjoyment, this book has you covered (if you haven’t read the rest of the series, what are you waiting for? Do that first, it’s definitely worth it to have the context that builds into this one). Max continues to be such an amazing character. He’s doing his level best here, for Royce, to reign in his natural inclination for blunt and/or cutting wit and pointed insight— meaning he’s trying not to *say* the things in his head, but I’m definitely glad that readers get to still see them. Well worth a read, and I can’t wait to see what’s next for Max and Royce.
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.
December 26, 2021
MURDER AT THE CHRISTMAS TREE FARM
Another great installment in S.C. Wynne’s Dr. Maxwell Thornton Murder Mystery Series (Book 5). Amidst the holiday hi-jinx and mayhem of Max’s first Christmas with Royce at the Giggly Elves Christmas Tree Farm and Resort, another guest receives an early Christmas gift—a knife in his chest. As a storm cuts off the merrymakers from the outside world, a killer still on the loose, and Max’s arch-nemesis River scheming and skulking, and sniffing at their heels with evil intent, Royce is the one present who can solve the murder—with Max’s help whether he wants it or not. And where there’s one body, why not two? A fun story, a great mystery, and an all-around good time.
Another great installment in S.C. Wynne’s Dr. Maxwell Thornton Murder Mystery Series (Book 5). Amidst the holiday hi-jinx and mayhem of Max’s first Christmas with Royce at the Giggly Elves Christmas Tree Farm and Resort, another guest receives an early Christmas gift—a knife in his chest. As a storm cuts off the merrymakers from the outside world, a killer still on the loose, and Max’s arch-nemesis River scheming and skulking, and sniffing at their heels with evil intent, Royce is the one present who can solve the murder—with Max’s help whether he wants it or not. And where there’s one body, why not two? A fun story, a great mystery, and an all-around good time.
December 21, 2021
I am once again captivated by the story telling of S.C. Wynne.
It's a Wonderful Knife is a terrific addition to the Dr. Maxwell Thornton Murder Mysteries series.
Watching Maxwell adjust to small town life is epic! I love how he really puts forth such effort to be a good partner to Royce.
That this inevitabley ends in some sort of chaos is just an added bonus.
I loved the murder/mystery component of this story. I was drawn in and kept guessing throughout the story. There were enough twists and turns to satisfy this mystery lover.
I can't wait for more Max/Royce stories!
It's a Wonderful Knife is a terrific addition to the Dr. Maxwell Thornton Murder Mysteries series.
Watching Maxwell adjust to small town life is epic! I love how he really puts forth such effort to be a good partner to Royce.
That this inevitabley ends in some sort of chaos is just an added bonus.
I loved the murder/mystery component of this story. I was drawn in and kept guessing throughout the story. There were enough twists and turns to satisfy this mystery lover.
I can't wait for more Max/Royce stories!
January 1, 2022
This book takes a classic murder mystery plot and updates it gracefully for the modern world. Throw in two of my favorite (albeit flawed in a good way) characters and you have another phenomenal read. Group of friends and strangers, check. Hotel, house, or other gathering spot, check. A few strange behaving staff and guests, check. Murder, check. Romance, check. Storm, check.
This was an all around fun read - no regrets!
This was an all around fun read - no regrets!
January 11, 2022
I wish I could give this more than five stars!! This series is best if you start from the beginning. Maxwell and Royce work to solve a murder at a tree farm. Lots of suspense! Overall this was fantastic! It kept me engaged and reading all night! It was really well written, highly recommend.
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.
June 9, 2023
4,5 stars .... love Max and Royce together
December 30, 2021
I really enjoyed this book. I don't read mysteries, but the premise of this book interested me and I decided to pick it up. So glad I did. The story was exciting and suspenseful. It should have been a trip to de-stress and sign off on technology during a week at a tree farm and bed-and-breakfast with his boyfriend. The trip turns terrifying when one of the guests is found stabbed to death, all the cell phones were destroyed, and a storm washed out the road, leaving them all with a murderer on the loose. Can they solve the mystery of who was behind it before anyone else is killed? Well written and a really enjoyable read. It's the first I've read by this author and I recommend it. 5 stars.
December 20, 2021
being back with max and Royce was such a incredible place to be and felt like coming home
max and Royce give us a fantastic murder mystery to solve well away for Christmas they had me so hooked wondering and guessing what was going to happen next on every chapter and every word I loved it so much
max and Royce give us a fantastic murder mystery to solve well away for Christmas they had me so hooked wondering and guessing what was going to happen next on every chapter and every word I loved it so much
December 14, 2021
I waited so patiently for this book!! Yes I loved it!! I fell in love with Maxwell and his parsnickity ways right from the beginning of the series.
The cast of characters in this story was a great mix of likable and please can we kill this one off types (River). I could not put this down once I started.
I have said before that I love the scenario of being trapped with the killer in a remote area and weather isolates and no one can leave.... Who dunnit!!! It's Royce and Maxwell against the world! Ok maybe a bit over dramatic.
The twists and turns, some things were obvious, as people can be, some people jumped out and surprised me.
Totally going into my reread pile!!
The cast of characters in this story was a great mix of likable and please can we kill this one off types (River). I could not put this down once I started.
I have said before that I love the scenario of being trapped with the killer in a remote area and weather isolates and no one can leave.... Who dunnit!!! It's Royce and Maxwell against the world! Ok maybe a bit over dramatic.
The twists and turns, some things were obvious, as people can be, some people jumped out and surprised me.
Totally going into my reread pile!!
December 20, 2021
I was given an ARC in return for an honest review but right now I am so worked up. I want to know now. That's not to say we don't find out who the murderer is and the reason why the murders took place because we do but I have so much invested in the story of Max and Royce the the revolting River and I need to know why. I do have one idea right now but I am not going to divulge it as I don't want to spoil the story for anyone else. I could also be very wrong.
I have enjoyed the story of Max and Royce from book 1. Max is so perfectly imperfect and Royce is the man that he needs. These two have been through so much throughout the books that they deserve their happily ever after but we have to wait that little bit longer. The next book in the series is coming in May of 2022 and I shall have to grit my teeth and bear it I guess.
The writing is very good and the storyline engaging. The series is well worth reading but make sure that you start at book 1. This is not a series to jump into from this book. You need the backstory.
I have enjoyed the story of Max and Royce from book 1. Max is so perfectly imperfect and Royce is the man that he needs. These two have been through so much throughout the books that they deserve their happily ever after but we have to wait that little bit longer. The next book in the series is coming in May of 2022 and I shall have to grit my teeth and bear it I guess.
The writing is very good and the storyline engaging. The series is well worth reading but make sure that you start at book 1. This is not a series to jump into from this book. You need the backstory.
July 2, 2023
I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. Maxwell is trying so hard to fit into small town life and - it's progress... Now he and Royce and a bunch of Rainy Dale residents are in for a treat. Namely, a murderer on the lose and bodies piling up. A lot of suspects are a nightmare for Royce, trying to keep everyone safe and finding the killer before they strike again. Great story.
Update:
I voluntarily reviewed an ALC of this book as well and Matt Haynes has a perfect way to bring the people of Rainy Dale to life. Very entertaining to not only read but listen to Maxwell „struggling“ to fit right into the small town.
Update:
I voluntarily reviewed an ALC of this book as well and Matt Haynes has a perfect way to bring the people of Rainy Dale to life. Very entertaining to not only read but listen to Maxwell „struggling“ to fit right into the small town.
December 24, 2021
Max is on his way with Royce for a few days at a christmas tree farm with all kinds of activities planned. Not really his kind of thing but he is trying. Unfortunately during a bad storm, Max and Royce discover a murder victim. As the river is flooded, they can not get any help so they are on their own.
Again the mystery had me guessing right to the end.Now we have to wait 6 months for the end of the series.
Again the mystery had me guessing right to the end.Now we have to wait 6 months for the end of the series.
August 25, 2025
Maxwell and Royce.
MM.
Can I just upfront say I HATE RIVER. I despise this character.
Apart from River who I want to wipe into oblivion, the story and characters are Great.
Recommend.
MM.
Can I just upfront say I HATE RIVER. I despise this character.
Apart from River who I want to wipe into oblivion, the story and characters are Great.
Recommend.
January 5, 2022
This is the first book I've read in this series but it won't be the last. The story and the characters are interesting. I really enjoyed this book.
June 13, 2023
This is #5 of the Dr. Thornton Murder Mysteries series, back with Maxwell and Royce as they travel to the Giggly Elves Farm for a holiday getaway and a tree cutting experience before Christmas. It is a mix of Rainy Dale residents and some holiday goers from other places, but most get along until a guest is discovered murdered and Royce is the one charged with figuring it out. There are several possible suspects, as things keep getting more complicated, not just with a body but also a homeless person, a strange banker, possible drug use, tension between owners and workers on the farm, and local complications from River and Lucas (from a previous book). The plot moved along well with solid clues and red herrings, Royce and Maxwell worked well together as Royce investigated, supporting characters were interesting and varied with possible motives, and a severe storm complicated everything.
This isn’t a long read, and can be a standalone, but reading previous books would enhance context. I didn’t read book 4 first, so don’t know the backstory about River and Lucas ( which was frustrating in a way), but it wasn’t necessary to the solution of the murder. I will go back and read the books I have missed in order to gain the context before moving on to books 6 and 7. An enjoyable read.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This isn’t a long read, and can be a standalone, but reading previous books would enhance context. I didn’t read book 4 first, so don’t know the backstory about River and Lucas ( which was frustrating in a way), but it wasn’t necessary to the solution of the murder. I will go back and read the books I have missed in order to gain the context before moving on to books 6 and 7. An enjoyable read.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
November 3, 2023
3.5 stars
This was a typical closed world mystery, so the plot wasn’t particularly original. This time the setting was on vacation at a Christmas Tree farm resort. There were a lot of characters to keep track of but the author did a good job of making each person unique so it was easy to follow. There wasn’t any real action but there were some scary moments for the characters.
There was kind of an inappropriate and ill-placed red herring thrown in near the end and the actual culprit wasn’t believable to me. I figured out what was going on near the beginning but there was enough randomness that I couldn’t be sure until the very end and the final reveal blindsided me.
One thing I learned from this book is that I would make a terrible investigator and a terrible detective fiction writer. The author covered bases and thought of things that would or wouldn’t be thought of or said that I kept saying to myself, “oh that’s true.” Only near the end did I think of one thing the author missed.
However, I loved the interaction between Max and Royce. I’m finally seeing the attraction and like what I see each contributing to the relationship. Even though I didn’t think the story was that great, I loved them together which left me with a positive feeling about the book. I also loved that this wasn’t a sappy always-positive typical Christmas story. Christmas took a back seat to the plot.
So 3 stars for the story and 4 stars for the relationship so I’ll go with 3.5 stars.
This was a typical closed world mystery, so the plot wasn’t particularly original. This time the setting was on vacation at a Christmas Tree farm resort. There were a lot of characters to keep track of but the author did a good job of making each person unique so it was easy to follow. There wasn’t any real action but there were some scary moments for the characters.
There was kind of an inappropriate and ill-placed red herring thrown in near the end and the actual culprit wasn’t believable to me. I figured out what was going on near the beginning but there was enough randomness that I couldn’t be sure until the very end and the final reveal blindsided me.
One thing I learned from this book is that I would make a terrible investigator and a terrible detective fiction writer. The author covered bases and thought of things that would or wouldn’t be thought of or said that I kept saying to myself, “oh that’s true.” Only near the end did I think of one thing the author missed.
However, I loved the interaction between Max and Royce. I’m finally seeing the attraction and like what I see each contributing to the relationship. Even though I didn’t think the story was that great, I loved them together which left me with a positive feeling about the book. I also loved that this wasn’t a sappy always-positive typical Christmas story. Christmas took a back seat to the plot.
So 3 stars for the story and 4 stars for the relationship so I’ll go with 3.5 stars.
December 15, 2021
This series just keeps getting better and better, every single book in this series is OFF THE CHARTS!
On this particular adventure, Max and Royce go on a one week holiday to Giggly Elves Tree Farm. This is something that Royce does every year and he loves it. Max knows that this will be out of his comfort zone, but he is determined to make the best of it for Royce. Seriously, how bad could it be. Max can do this. Well until someone decides to get a little stabby.
Stuck on the farm in a storm with no phone, no way out, too much bacon (like that's even a thing), a dead guest and a murderer on the loose, it's a race against time to catch the killer before they decide to get stabby again.
This story flows so nicely, absolutely entertaining from start to finish and it keeps you guessing as to who dunnit and flipping the pages. Beautifully written and loveable characters (ok...Max and Royce for sure...maybe not River so much).
I received a ARC of this book and willingly leave my honest review.
On this particular adventure, Max and Royce go on a one week holiday to Giggly Elves Tree Farm. This is something that Royce does every year and he loves it. Max knows that this will be out of his comfort zone, but he is determined to make the best of it for Royce. Seriously, how bad could it be. Max can do this. Well until someone decides to get a little stabby.
Stuck on the farm in a storm with no phone, no way out, too much bacon (like that's even a thing), a dead guest and a murderer on the loose, it's a race against time to catch the killer before they decide to get stabby again.
This story flows so nicely, absolutely entertaining from start to finish and it keeps you guessing as to who dunnit and flipping the pages. Beautifully written and loveable characters (ok...Max and Royce for sure...maybe not River so much).
I received a ARC of this book and willingly leave my honest review.
January 8, 2023
2,5 stars. It’s probably a bit of an unfair rating but this series is frustrating me more than I expected. Im usually a sucker for a cozy mystery and particularly a snowed in type of mystery where a killer is slowly picking off characters. But this was just boring. Overdrawn and boring. First of all, for as much as Maxwell is painted as the uncaring, un accommodating one in the relationship, Royce doesn’t actually really take his feelings or preferences into account much. Secondly, River is such a boring antagonist. His motive and backstory is obvious a mile away and he’s just so uninteresting. Thirdly, the cast of characters is kind of uninteresting too in this instalment. There are far too many with far too few differences, which can get confusing, and a handful that barely participate.
Finally, the writing is still kind of awkward. There is a lot of exposition and choppy writing which makes for a less than smooth reading experience. Overall enjoyable but could be greatly improved with some strategic editing.
Finally, the writing is still kind of awkward. There is a lot of exposition and choppy writing which makes for a less than smooth reading experience. Overall enjoyable but could be greatly improved with some strategic editing.
February 18, 2023
This was another great book in the series following Max and Royce, this time as they take a trip away from Rainy Dale. It was still packed full of interesting (and some familiar) characters though. I loved the vibe of this one; it was very much like a classic murder mystery where a group of people are trapped together and one is the killer. I didn't see the end result coming and it kept me hooked from start to finish. Maxwell is definitely trying hard to fit in and be more considerate of other people's feelings. I have to say though, I still love it when he tells someone the brutal truth! There were quite a few funny bits to this, most of which involved some of his inner commentary about what was going on. The very end of the book also intrigued me and I'll now immediately be reading book 6 too!
Overall, this is a great murder mystery story with a strong MM romance too (already established). If you're familiar with the series then I'd definitely recommend this book. For me, it was a great read and I'm looking forward to more.
I received an ARC and this is my honest review.
Overall, this is a great murder mystery story with a strong MM romance too (already established). If you're familiar with the series then I'd definitely recommend this book. For me, it was a great read and I'm looking forward to more.
I received an ARC and this is my honest review.
Read
October 16, 2022It's a wonderful knife is the fifth book in the Dr Thornton Murder Mysteries Series by S. C. Wynne.
This time we're in for a bus ride along with Max, Royce, and other members of the Rainy Dale community, as they spend a week at Giggly Elves Farm to do all kinds of Christmassy things.
For those who've read previous books in this series, the idea of Doctor Max Thornton engaging in anything to do with Christmas would be a stretch for anyone's imagination.
This series works because the protagonists Max and his partner, Sheriff Royce Callum are easy to like. They have a relationship that is growing as the characters evolve.
The plots are written to be entertaining more than to be taken seriously, and for the author, this works.
I recommend this book to readers who like an excellent old-style mystery. I found it to be enjoyable and an easy read.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This time we're in for a bus ride along with Max, Royce, and other members of the Rainy Dale community, as they spend a week at Giggly Elves Farm to do all kinds of Christmassy things.
For those who've read previous books in this series, the idea of Doctor Max Thornton engaging in anything to do with Christmas would be a stretch for anyone's imagination.
This series works because the protagonists Max and his partner, Sheriff Royce Callum are easy to like. They have a relationship that is growing as the characters evolve.
The plots are written to be entertaining more than to be taken seriously, and for the author, this works.
I recommend this book to readers who like an excellent old-style mystery. I found it to be enjoyable and an easy read.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
December 26, 2021
This one was really good; the writing has improved a lot, the mystery was well-done and with smart red-herrings throwing on the way :P
It still had some cringey moments, times in which Max still chastised humself for.... being himself; but particularly this one:
Because no, that's not romantic, that's... awfully one-sided. Should you try to be a better person? Yes, of course! Should you change yourself to fit other person's expectations? Nope. This way of thinking troubles me a lot.
But at least we know what is River's plan. We had to wait until the end of the book, but we got it. I still don't know how he could do it, but I guess I'll have to wait until the next book to discover it.
It still had some cringey moments, times in which Max still chastised humself for.... being himself; but particularly this one:
"...Change is never easy, right?” I shrugged. “But easy or hard, I’ll do whatever it takes to be with Royce.”
She smiled. “That was actually really romantic, Max.”
Because no, that's not romantic, that's... awfully one-sided. Should you try to be a better person? Yes, of course! Should you change yourself to fit other person's expectations? Nope. This way of thinking troubles me a lot.
But at least we know what is River's plan. We had to wait until the end of the book, but we got it. I still don't know how he could do it, but I guess I'll have to wait until the next book to discover it.
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