I know what you're thinking. What is a Christmas story doing here in the middle of spooky season? While October typically revolves around tales of ghouls, ghosts, and chilling narratives, it also marks the beginning of the holiday season in the publishing world. Many authors release their festive stories early, hoping to capture readers' attention before the holiday rush. When my friends at Atria Books presented me with the chance to read Janice Hallett's holiday-themed follow-up to her book The Appeal, I couldn't help but get swept up by the holiday spirit. It provides a gentle introduction to the season, one tinged with a touch of mystery that I couldn't resist.
Lower Lockwood is embracing the Christmas season, with the Fairway Players fervently rehearsing their holiday production of "Jack and the Beanstalk" to raise funds for a new church roof. However, goodwill is in short supply among amateur theater enthusiasts, with petty rivalries, concerns about asbestos in the beanstalk, and persistent absenteeism among the cast.
On the night of their production, a dead body is discovered onstage. Who could have harbored ill intentions toward the victim during this festive season? Lawyers Femi and Charlotte embark on an investigation that involves analyzing Christmas letters, scrutinizing emails, and delving into police transcripts to unmask both the victim and the killer before the final curtain falls on the holiday production.
The Christmas Appeal provided a much-needed respite from my spooky reading. Hallett presents the story through firsthand correspondence, offering insights into the lives and motivations of the Fairway Players members. I couldn't help but become engrossed in the petty drama that permeates this community theater organization, reminiscent of my own experiences with church music groups. Everyone is a volunteer, and everyone believes they're in charge. While the murder mystery itself may be somewhat ordinary, the vividly portrayed characters and their interpersonal conflicts make the narrative incredibly engaging. The added stress of the holiday season heightens the tension. The Christmas Appeal is a delightful and brisk read, offering an escape into the holiday spirit ahead of the bustling season.
For more information, visit the author's website, Amazon, and Goodreads.
(2023, 70)
This sounds like a fun one to transition from spooky to festive (ish...there is murder lol)
ReplyDeleteKaren @For What It's Worth
It is, indeed. I really want to go back and read The Appeal now!
DeleteSounds like fun. I haven't read any of Hallett's books, but I do have The Twyford Code on my TBR list. Looks like I might need to add this one, too.
ReplyDeleteThe expository format really works in this one and makes it a quick read!
DeleteI have a couple on my radar that are Christmas mysteries. The season is upon us whether we are ready or not, LOL!
ReplyDeleteI've got a few more Christmas mysteries on my pile for December!
DeleteI have this one as well and I'm looking forward to it!
ReplyDeleteIt is a quick read that's perfect for the holidays!
DeleteA dead body on opening night is never a good omen. It's something that makes me smile to see a murder mystery called "delightful". Gotta love those cozies and the authors who can make this happen. With the publisher shutting down (it seems) in the beginning of December, I have read a LOT of Christmas books so far too. I love them!
ReplyDeleteI'm trying to save the rest of mine for December, but we'll see how that goes haha
DeleteThe holiday season seems to bring out either the worst or best in people. Petty drama, a dead body and a play sounds like just the right amount of mystery to keep a reader engaged.
ReplyDeleteIt makes for a killer combination! (pun absolutely intended :D)
DeleteI used to read lots of romance books in October cos that is when they come out, lol
ReplyDeleteSoon it will be the season
Isn't it funny how publishing trends influence what and when we read something?
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