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Marshmallow Hollow Mysteries #3
One Corpse Open Slay (The Marshmallow Hollow Mysteries)
Halliday Valentine here! It's a week before Christmas, and my quaint holiday town, Marshmallow Hollow, is chock-a-block with seasonal activities. Some less fun than others . . . like the ice sculpting competition my bestie, Stiles, has talked me into. Let's just say, as a pair, Michelangelo we ain't. I'm secretly relieved when our epically awful ice display gets damaged. It gives me a chance to watch my new beau, Hobbs, compete in the sled race.
But not five seconds in, and Hobbs's sled-loving dog, Stephen King, escapes my grip to get in on the action--and boy, does he. He even manages to find himself a sled to ride. Too bad it's already occupied. With the corpse of a renowned ice sculpting judge.
True-crime lovers that we are, Hobbs and I jump right into the investigation. It's not nosiness, I swear. A little kitten's fate is on the line, after all (long story)!
Only problem? A bajillion suspects. The victim was nothing if not an equal-opportunity jerk, universally hated by everyone he'd ever met. And every suspect has an air-tight alibi. Not to mention, the murder weapon is a giant mystery the police can't solve.
But not five seconds in, and Hobbs's sled-loving dog, Stephen King, escapes my grip to get in on the action--and boy, does he. He even manages to find himself a sled to ride. Too bad it's already occupied. With the corpse of a renowned ice sculpting judge.
True-crime lovers that we are, Hobbs and I jump right into the investigation. It's not nosiness, I swear. A little kitten's fate is on the line, after all (long story)!
Only problem? A bajillion suspects. The victim was nothing if not an equal-opportunity jerk, universally hated by everyone he'd ever met. And every suspect has an air-tight alibi. Not to mention, the murder weapon is a giant mystery the police can't solve.
6 pages, Audio CD
First published November 30, 2020
32 people are currently reading
153 people want to read
About the author
Dakota Cassidy
167 books1,944 followersDakota Cassidy is a national bestselling author with over thirty books. She writes laugh-out-loud romantic comedy, grab-some-ice erotic romance, hot and sexy alpha males, paranormal shifters, contemporary kick-ass women, and more.
Invited by Bravo TV, Dakota was the Bravoholic for a week, wherein she snarked the hell out of all the Bravo shows. She received a starred review from Publisher Weekly for Talk Dirty to Me, won an RT Reviewers Choice Award for Kiss and Hell, along with many review site recommended reads and reviewer top pick awards.
Dakota lives in the gorgeous state of Oregon with her real life hero and her dogs, and she loves hearing from readers!
Connect with Dakota online: https://twitter.com/DakotaCassidy https://www.facebook.com/DakotaCassid...
Join Dakota Cassidy’s Newsletter The Tiara Diaries! Join here: http://mad.ly/signups/100255/join
Invited by Bravo TV, Dakota was the Bravoholic for a week, wherein she snarked the hell out of all the Bravo shows. She received a starred review from Publisher Weekly for Talk Dirty to Me, won an RT Reviewers Choice Award for Kiss and Hell, along with many review site recommended reads and reviewer top pick awards.
Dakota lives in the gorgeous state of Oregon with her real life hero and her dogs, and she loves hearing from readers!
Connect with Dakota online: https://twitter.com/DakotaCassidy https://www.facebook.com/DakotaCassid...
Join Dakota Cassidy’s Newsletter The Tiara Diaries! Join here: http://mad.ly/signups/100255/join
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews
December 20, 2024
The third murder in Marshmallow Hollow - boy, who knew Christmas would be so bloody?! But I'm definitely here for it! :D
A Christmas-y town like the one in this book has LOTS of Christmas traditions like ice sculpting and sled racing. Apparently, it's quite a big deal and everyone is taking it very seriously. Unfortunately, it actually becomes very serious once a corpse is found in one of the sleds. As if Hal and her cop buddie having to drop out of the ice sculpting competition on account of their "sculpture" having been smashed by someone wasn't enough.
I can't believe we got all these cases in one and the same year but hey, who knows what some people are capable enough once they've had enough eggnog or mulled wine!
Oh, and there's an adorable kitten in this! *squeals delightedly*
Some of Hal's earlier visions (details thereof to be exact) are starting to make sense and it's enough to make my stomach drop.
More Christmas cheer, another murder, more lovely people one of which definitely isn't all THAT lovely, a terrible excuse for a human being (I really think he deserved having been killed), adorable animals galore and a little bit (more) of romance ... not bad at all.
A Christmas-y town like the one in this book has LOTS of Christmas traditions like ice sculpting and sled racing. Apparently, it's quite a big deal and everyone is taking it very seriously. Unfortunately, it actually becomes very serious once a corpse is found in one of the sleds. As if Hal and her cop buddie having to drop out of the ice sculpting competition on account of their "sculpture" having been smashed by someone wasn't enough.
I can't believe we got all these cases in one and the same year but hey, who knows what some people are capable enough once they've had enough eggnog or mulled wine!
Oh, and there's an adorable kitten in this! *squeals delightedly*
Some of Hal's earlier visions (details thereof to be exact) are starting to make sense and it's enough to make my stomach drop.
More Christmas cheer, another murder, more lovely people one of which definitely isn't all THAT lovely, a terrible excuse for a human being (I really think he deserved having been killed), adorable animals galore and a little bit (more) of romance ... not bad at all.
November 21, 2020
If Marshmallow Hollow were a real place, I would want to visit. I adore this series and these characters, this book does not disappoint. I laughed and was on the edge of my seat in anticipation and suspense keeping me turning the pages until I finished the book. The author has crafted a delightful mystery that has me hoping for more.
June 27, 2021
3.5 stars
Another cute cozy mystery from Dakota Cassidy. I always enjoy these books as a quick, light escape to a place where it feels like Christmas all the time and there's all sorts of wonderful animal friends (not to mention real ones).
The characters are what keep bringing me back to this series (and others by Dakota Cassidy). They're just so lovable. I think what I loved most about Hal in this book is her unapologetic honesty about herself. She and her best friend Stiles created an ice sculpture that was really awful and Hal pokes fun about it the entire book. And then she and her crime solving / romantic interest partner Hobb's are once again working to solve a mystery and this time her involvement really doesn't make sense. Well, Hal very matter-of-factly states that she's just nosy (and also wants to be helpful. there also is a kitten to save as a side-excuse). I love that about her.
The mystery is always fun and interesting as well. This one had me kind of guessing back and forth to the end. And when the person killed is such an awful human being, it's hard to peg down exactly who finally did them in. It all came together really well, with a bit of help from Hal's visions and magic. Which is another part I enjoy about this series - the magic, which gives us not just visions and wonky spells (Hal isn't always accurate in her spell casting lol) but also some hilarious animal sidekicks.
Hollie Jackson really does a great job narrating this series and I'm really glad I've been able to listen. She's brings the characters to life really well, especially those animal sidekicks. Looking forward to listening to more in the series as soon as another book is released!
Another cute cozy mystery from Dakota Cassidy. I always enjoy these books as a quick, light escape to a place where it feels like Christmas all the time and there's all sorts of wonderful animal friends (not to mention real ones).
The characters are what keep bringing me back to this series (and others by Dakota Cassidy). They're just so lovable. I think what I loved most about Hal in this book is her unapologetic honesty about herself. She and her best friend Stiles created an ice sculpture that was really awful and Hal pokes fun about it the entire book. And then she and her crime solving / romantic interest partner Hobb's are once again working to solve a mystery and this time her involvement really doesn't make sense. Well, Hal very matter-of-factly states that she's just nosy (and also wants to be helpful. there also is a kitten to save as a side-excuse). I love that about her.
The mystery is always fun and interesting as well. This one had me kind of guessing back and forth to the end. And when the person killed is such an awful human being, it's hard to peg down exactly who finally did them in. It all came together really well, with a bit of help from Hal's visions and magic. Which is another part I enjoy about this series - the magic, which gives us not just visions and wonky spells (Hal isn't always accurate in her spell casting lol) but also some hilarious animal sidekicks.
Hollie Jackson really does a great job narrating this series and I'm really glad I've been able to listen. She's brings the characters to life really well, especially those animal sidekicks. Looking forward to listening to more in the series as soon as another book is released!
December 23, 2025
My rating is 4.9 stars.
I find myself utterly captivated by these richly developed characters, each one vividly crafted to the point where I’m seamlessly drawn into their world. They invite me on a thrilling journey, and I'm eager to accompany them as they delve into an intriguing mystery. Their personalities radiate charm and vitality, enhanced by some of the most delightful sidekicks imaginable. The dynamic duo of Halliday and Hobbs is compelling, but it’s Halliday’s quirky companions—a sassy hummingbird named Atticus, complete with a delightful British accent, and her spirited grandmother who is reminiscent of a reindeer—that truly steal the show.
As the Christmas season grows near, the quaint town of Marshmallow Hollow bursts into a flurry of festive activities, each corner alive with holiday spirit. However, not every event is brimming with joy. Halliday finds herself reluctantly persuaded by her enthusiastic friend, Stiles, to participate in an ice sculpting competition, which turns out to be more of a comedic disaster than a triumph. Let’s just say, Michelangelo would shake his head in dismay. Secretly relieved when their hilariously flawed ice sculpture takes a tumble, Halliday seizes the opportunity to watch her new love interest, Hobbs, as he gears up to race in the thrilling sled competition.
Things take an unexpected turn just moments into the race when Hobbs’s exuberant dog, named Stephen King, makes a break for it, eager to join in the action. With uncontainable energy, he finds a sled—unfortunately, it’s already occupied by none other than the lifeless body of a notorious ice sculpting judge.
Driven by their love of true crime, Halliday and Hobbs dive headfirst into the investigation, their curiosity ignited. However, the stakes are high; there’s a vulnerable little kitten caught up in the chaos that they are determined to help.
The labyrinth of suspects is daunting. The victim was infamous for being an equal-opportunity jerk, uniformly reviled by everyone he crossed paths with. Each potential culprit seems to have a solid alibi, adding layers to the web of intrigue. To complicate matters further, the murder weapon remains an unsolved enigma that baffles even the local authorities.
This whole investigation would be significantly simpler if Halliday could rely on her magical abilities. Yet, she wrestles with a critical question: can she trust Hobbs with the truth about her powers? More importantly, is he ready to accept that revelation?
This mystery unfolded with delightful twists and clever dialogue that felt so relatable and authentic. I particularly loved the nod to one of my all-time favorite films, "Santa Claus Conquers the Martians," which added an enjoyable touch to the narrative. Hollie Jackson has truly excelled in bringing this episode to life with her engaging storytelling.
I find myself utterly captivated by these richly developed characters, each one vividly crafted to the point where I’m seamlessly drawn into their world. They invite me on a thrilling journey, and I'm eager to accompany them as they delve into an intriguing mystery. Their personalities radiate charm and vitality, enhanced by some of the most delightful sidekicks imaginable. The dynamic duo of Halliday and Hobbs is compelling, but it’s Halliday’s quirky companions—a sassy hummingbird named Atticus, complete with a delightful British accent, and her spirited grandmother who is reminiscent of a reindeer—that truly steal the show.
As the Christmas season grows near, the quaint town of Marshmallow Hollow bursts into a flurry of festive activities, each corner alive with holiday spirit. However, not every event is brimming with joy. Halliday finds herself reluctantly persuaded by her enthusiastic friend, Stiles, to participate in an ice sculpting competition, which turns out to be more of a comedic disaster than a triumph. Let’s just say, Michelangelo would shake his head in dismay. Secretly relieved when their hilariously flawed ice sculpture takes a tumble, Halliday seizes the opportunity to watch her new love interest, Hobbs, as he gears up to race in the thrilling sled competition.
Things take an unexpected turn just moments into the race when Hobbs’s exuberant dog, named Stephen King, makes a break for it, eager to join in the action. With uncontainable energy, he finds a sled—unfortunately, it’s already occupied by none other than the lifeless body of a notorious ice sculpting judge.
Driven by their love of true crime, Halliday and Hobbs dive headfirst into the investigation, their curiosity ignited. However, the stakes are high; there’s a vulnerable little kitten caught up in the chaos that they are determined to help.
The labyrinth of suspects is daunting. The victim was infamous for being an equal-opportunity jerk, uniformly reviled by everyone he crossed paths with. Each potential culprit seems to have a solid alibi, adding layers to the web of intrigue. To complicate matters further, the murder weapon remains an unsolved enigma that baffles even the local authorities.
This whole investigation would be significantly simpler if Halliday could rely on her magical abilities. Yet, she wrestles with a critical question: can she trust Hobbs with the truth about her powers? More importantly, is he ready to accept that revelation?
This mystery unfolded with delightful twists and clever dialogue that felt so relatable and authentic. I particularly loved the nod to one of my all-time favorite films, "Santa Claus Conquers the Martians," which added an enjoyable touch to the narrative. Hollie Jackson has truly excelled in bringing this episode to life with her engaging storytelling.
December 27, 2022
I love this series! Each book is better than the last. I love all the characters, especially the cats and Atti. I love that Hobbs is not an alpha male jerk and is, instead, someone who is kind, caring, accepting, and willing to talk about things. I love Hal's relationship with her best friend. I love the mysteries. They get stronger with every book. I only had two complaints. The first is the reason I dropped a star; the second is just something that has been bugging me throughout the series.
1. I really, really do not like when rape is an integral part of a story line.
2. It's the weather! I don't live in Maine, but I do live on the north Atlantic coast, and the amount of snow in Hal's town is VERY unusual for a town on the water in this part of the world. The Atlantic Ocean makes weather more mild/warmer in the winter than it is inland (with much less snow.) The excessive snowfall paired with the reminder that they live on the ocean often takes me out of the story. This, of course, is nitpicky and does not affect my ratings for any of the books.
Anyway, as I mentioned, I love this series, and I would recommend it to anyone who likes warm, wonderful characters, animals, and fun story lines.
1. I really, really do not like when rape is an integral part of a story line.
2. It's the weather! I don't live in Maine, but I do live on the north Atlantic coast, and the amount of snow in Hal's town is VERY unusual for a town on the water in this part of the world. The Atlantic Ocean makes weather more mild/warmer in the winter than it is inland (with much less snow.) The excessive snowfall paired with the reminder that they live on the ocean often takes me out of the story. This, of course, is nitpicky and does not affect my ratings for any of the books.
Anyway, as I mentioned, I love this series, and I would recommend it to anyone who likes warm, wonderful characters, animals, and fun story lines.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 18, 2020
One Corpse Open Slay is the third in the bewitching Marshmallow Hollow Mysteries series. The mysteries are challenging but what make this series special is the cast of characters. Halliday Valentine is a witch whose spells go slightly wonky if she works under pressure. Her familiar is a hummingbird with a deep voice and an attitude. Hal’s grandmother is a talking reindeer (not Hal’s fault). Her best friend is a gay cop. And then there is her developing relationship with Dainty Hobbs the hunky Texan that lives on her property and his dog Stephan King.
Marshmallow Hollow is a charming town and Hal owns a factory that makes everything Christmas. That factory is closed for the entire month of December leaving Hal too much time on her hands.
In this installment Hal rescues a kitten (and names it Barbara after Streisand whom I adore) and solves a murder by almost becoming a victim herself. This adorable mystery will have you laughing and sighing and will leave you with a little bit of hope.
Marshmallow Hollow is a charming town and Hal owns a factory that makes everything Christmas. That factory is closed for the entire month of December leaving Hal too much time on her hands.
In this installment Hal rescues a kitten (and names it Barbara after Streisand whom I adore) and solves a murder by almost becoming a victim herself. This adorable mystery will have you laughing and sighing and will leave you with a little bit of hope.
December 16, 2020
5 Stars... Here is what I love about Dakota Cassidy's writing, she embeds an intricate mystery that has some darker elements into the shell of a cozy mystery with all it's, let's face it, coziness... She gives us all the elements we crave in a good "Who dun it?" but with magic, humor, and a sweet romance... As she combines these pieces, the reader experiences the excitement and intrigue of the mystery attempting to solve the case but at the same time we get to relax and unwind with a fun read... This one was no exception... Halliday and her crew of amateur sleuths must discover the hidden truths behind the murder of a Casanova ice sculpting critic which leads to a decades old secret that the murderer never wanted revealed and will stop at nothing to keep buried... This one twists and turns until the very end keeping readers on the edge of their seats to solve the case... Romance is also heating up in this read as well as additional intrigue associated with a, typewriter??? So much more to learn in this sleepy little town of Marshmallow Hollow:)
May 26, 2022
I am very glad this book is so well written! The mystery is excellent and romance is growing. Halliday and Hobbs are developing a nice romance as well as their sleuthing skills. Her magic is not any better but she is sharing her visions with Hobbs. In this story a man who is not the nicest is killed and the search is on for who did it. Hal has a vision which involves a kitten who she names Barbra and keeps.
As the story develops you will find that Hal will end up sharing with Hobbs her secrets because they are at the boyfriend girlfriend stage. It is a new beginning for some but the past will cause problems which almost cost others their life. Read and enjoy magic mistakes and watch the romance bloom.
As the story develops you will find that Hal will end up sharing with Hobbs her secrets because they are at the boyfriend girlfriend stage. It is a new beginning for some but the past will cause problems which almost cost others their life. Read and enjoy magic mistakes and watch the romance bloom.
December 29, 2022
This is a very fun holiday series I have been devouring in 2022. You do need to read them in order for the best experience.
Hal's new beau, Hobbs, now knows her "migraines" are visions that have helped them solve two previous murders. This story is a bit darker in background than the past 2 and it's easy to feel sympathy for the bad guy.
Stiles has convinced his best friend Hal to take a course and compete in ice carving so he can get to know the instructor better. Hal does not want them to humiliate themselves with their entry. But it's destroyed and while Hobbs competes in the sled race, a dead body comes down the slope in a sled with a dog. Oh, and there's also a kitten who may be involved in the murder....
Hal's new beau, Hobbs, now knows her "migraines" are visions that have helped them solve two previous murders. This story is a bit darker in background than the past 2 and it's easy to feel sympathy for the bad guy.
Stiles has convinced his best friend Hal to take a course and compete in ice carving so he can get to know the instructor better. Hal does not want them to humiliate themselves with their entry. But it's destroyed and while Hobbs competes in the sled race, a dead body comes down the slope in a sled with a dog. Oh, and there's also a kitten who may be involved in the murder....
December 18, 2021
Becoming a Favorite!!!
This series Just Gets better and better! I am loving it. Toni is such a feisty thing and I adore the friendship that has grown between her, Katherine and Megan. The interactions between her and everyone is so funny. she has my sarcastic mouth, but a big heart! I love it! And add the sweetest, hottest man on earth, Henry...who can go wrong! And the cherry on top is a murder mystery! And if you want two cherries on top, have Ava Lucas do your narration!!! pure perfection!!! I can't wait for the next one!!! ❤❤❤
This series Just Gets better and better! I am loving it. Toni is such a feisty thing and I adore the friendship that has grown between her, Katherine and Megan. The interactions between her and everyone is so funny. she has my sarcastic mouth, but a big heart! I love it! And add the sweetest, hottest man on earth, Henry...who can go wrong! And the cherry on top is a murder mystery! And if you want two cherries on top, have Ava Lucas do your narration!!! pure perfection!!! I can't wait for the next one!!! ❤❤❤
January 14, 2024
Audiobook. Favorite series. Favorite author. Cozy mystery. Christmas-themed. Supernatural/paranormal. Female protagonist. Female author.
I make the Marshmallow Hollow series part of my annual winter reading/listening. I enjoy quirky witch Halliday and her boo Hobbes, Nana Karen the Reindeer and Atticus the hummingbird familiar who’s also a proper English gentleman. This mystery didn’t disappoint and the resolution was heartbreaking. One more left in the series and I hope there are more to come.
4 Halliday holiday stars
I make the Marshmallow Hollow series part of my annual winter reading/listening. I enjoy quirky witch Halliday and her boo Hobbes, Nana Karen the Reindeer and Atticus the hummingbird familiar who’s also a proper English gentleman. This mystery didn’t disappoint and the resolution was heartbreaking. One more left in the series and I hope there are more to come.
4 Halliday holiday stars
November 29, 2020
This is the third book in the marshmallow hollow series. What a fantastic read. Hal and Hobbs are at it again trying to solve a mystery in their town. With HAL being a witch who’s magic always goes a little wonky and HAL being her new boyfriend can they put their emotions aside long enough to find the murderer? Will this mystery be solved before someone else is hurt? Will this murder be someone close to them?
December 26, 2020
Adding this to the top of my favorite series list. Hal is a wonderful heroine and Hobbs is about as good as it gets when it comes to heroes. The animals are all adorable and how could anyone not love a series with characters who are such huge animal lovers? Hal's magical mishaps are pretty freakin' funny as well. Such a good time. I hope there are many more stories to come from Marshmallow Hollow.
December 20, 2024
I'm still enjoying this UF mystery filled with magical fluff. It's all the joys of cozy murders AND xmas. So, just like the classic seasonal drink of egg-nog, it's very sweet AND fattening.
The best part is how short it is. You don't want to overload on sweets.
Personal note:
If anyone reading my reviews might be interested in reading my own SF, I'm going to be open to DM requests. I think it's about time I get some eyes on them.
Arctunn.com
The best part is how short it is. You don't want to overload on sweets.
Personal note:
If anyone reading my reviews might be interested in reading my own SF, I'm going to be open to DM requests. I think it's about time I get some eyes on them.
Arctunn.com
November 20, 2020
Another fantastic adventure with Hal & Hobbs as well as their foray into amateur sleuthing. So if your a fan of a good cozy mystery I totally recommend that you one click this series believe me you won't regret it. As always my review are totally voluntarily and no monetary compensation was received the opinions I have expressed are my own.
November 25, 2020
Fantastic read!
I love this series! The characters and world have me reading the book as quickly as I can but wishing it wouldn't end all at the same time! There's a lot of laughter, a healthy dash of romance, and of course mystery. I highly recommend this book and the series!
I love this series! The characters and world have me reading the book as quickly as I can but wishing it wouldn't end all at the same time! There's a lot of laughter, a healthy dash of romance, and of course mystery. I highly recommend this book and the series!
April 10, 2021
This was my favorite of the series. The characters finally came together and I started to care for them and their story. I found these very similar to her Witchless series (understandably as they are from the same universe). I'll be interested to see where she takes the series from here.
December 31, 2022
I'm so glad I discovered these over the holidays; my boyfriend & I have been using them as a decompress from everything hectic. My favorite series thus far in my recent forays into the supernatural cozy mystery subgenre.
July 9, 2023
Enjoyable little story. In this age of the snarky, kick-ass heroine, it is nice to discover at least one author is writing series with heroines who are genuinely nice...not buried under attitude nice, but just, simply NICE. Refreshing.
November 23, 2020
Another great mystery to solve in Marshallow Hollow, a town of all things Christmas. Love Halliday and the gang. Dont miss a great read!
November 25, 2020
Loved it, can't wait for the next one
November 25, 2020
Open slay
This was another fun read. I really wanted someone else to be the killer but that is how it goes
This was another fun read. I really wanted someone else to be the killer but that is how it goes
November 26, 2020
Loved it! I am really enjoying this new series by Dakota Cassidy. I can't wait to find out what is in store next for Hal and Hobbs.
December 3, 2020
Fun.
Wonderful fun storyline, entertainment at its best, highly recommend this author's books.She never fails to deliver a good read
Great yourself
Wonderful fun storyline, entertainment at its best, highly recommend this author's books.She never fails to deliver a good read
Great yourself
January 11, 2021
A fun Christmas murder mystery loved the characters and descriptions . Was a quick and fun read
June 6, 2021
Good series
I'm enjoying this series as I have other books from Dakota Cassidy. I can not wait for the next book
I'm enjoying this series as I have other books from Dakota Cassidy. I can not wait for the next book
December 26, 2021
Oh YEAH JUST THE WAY TO SPEND CHRISTMAS
Hal and Hobs are just the best duo!!!!!! What a super fun Christmas read!!!! I am already on to the next!!!!!!
Hal and Hobs are just the best duo!!!!!! What a super fun Christmas read!!!! I am already on to the next!!!!!!
January 18, 2022
OMG I can't believe she finally told him. They're like the cutest couple ever. I'm very swoony at the moment.
January 19, 2022
OMG this series is fun. I love that she is different than Stevie, but the fact that her Grandma is now a reindeer... it always adds a bit of comedic relief.
April 27, 2022
This is a fun series but there are a couple of dark moments. But mostly entertaining and silly and interesting.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews