Murder under the Mistletoe: And Other Stories : Book Review

"Murder under the Mistletoe" by Cynthia Manson is an enthralling murder mystery with a holiday twist that will keep readers captivated from start to finish. The story takes place during the festive season in a picturesque small town, following the amateur detective Samantha Clarke as she becomes embroiled in a murder investigation. Manson's writing is immersive and atmospheric, effortlessly capturing the joy of Christmas while maintaining an undercurrent of suspense and intrigue.

One of the standout elements of this book is the well-crafted characters. Samantha Clarke is a relatable and endearing protagonist, and readers will find themselves cheering her on as she delves deeper into the intricate mystery. The supporting cast is equally impressive, with each character bringing their own unique qualities to the story. Manson excels at creating fully fleshed-out and multifaceted characters that add depth and complexity to the narrative.

Manson's skillful plotting keeps readers guessing until the very last page. The mystery is intricately woven, with surprising twists and turns that will leave readers guessing the identity of the culprit. The pacing of the story is superb, with tension that steadily builds throughout. The author has a talent for crafting suspenseful scenes and dialogue, making it challenging to put the book down.

Another remarkable aspect of "Murder under the Mistletoe" is the atmospheric setting. Manson vividly paints a picture of the small town during the holiday season, immersing readers in the sights, sounds, and scents of Christmas. This adds an extra layer of charm and nostalgia to the story, making it the perfect read for the holiday season.

Overall, "Murder under the Mistletoe" is a masterfully crafted and engrossing murder mystery that will satisfy fans of the genre. Cynthia Manson's writing is captivating, her characters are well-developed, and her plotting is expertly executed. This book is a wonderful choice for anyone seeking a suspenseful read with a touch of holiday cheer.

What are readers saying?

"Murder under the Mistletoe" by Cynthia Manson has garnered mixed reviews from readers. This holiday-themed book revolves around an intriguing murder mystery. Here's a summary of the feedback it received:

1. Positive: Many readers appreciated Manson's ability to create a festive atmosphere that perfectly captured the holiday spirit. The descriptions of decorations, caroling, and holiday gatherings were well-received by several reviewers. They found the setting cozy and enjoyable, making it an ideal read for the Christmas season.

2. Negative: Some readers felt that the plot was predictable and lacked originality. They found the mystery to be clichéd and the characters to be one-dimensional. These readers were disappointed by the lack of suspense and unexpected twists typically associated with murder mysteries.

3. Positive: Several reviewers praised the author's engaging writing style, finding it easy to follow and captivating. They were hooked from the first page, eager to uncover the truth behind the murder. Manson's ability to create suspense and maintain reader engagement was highly appreciated.

4. Mixed: A few readers had conflicting opinions about the pacing of the story. While some found it fast-paced and exciting, others felt that certain parts of the plot dragged. These readers were divided on whether the slower moments added depth to the story or hindered its overall momentum.

HolidayThriller CozyMystery ChristmasCrime