Title: Mistletoe Murder
Author: Leslie Meier
First published January 1, 1991
224 pages, Paperback
ISBN: 9780758203373 (ISBN10: 0758203373)
Rating: 3.58
Overview
Lucy Stone is back in action, juggling a myriad of tasks in preparation for the most wonderful time of the year. Between baking Christmas goodies, knitting gifts for loved ones, and helping out with the church pageant, Lucy is also working night shifts at a local mail-order company.
However, when the wealthy founder of the company, Samuel Miller, is found dead in his car under mysterious circumstances, Lucy’s sleuthing instincts kick in. She’s convinced that Miller was murdered, but who could be responsible?
As she delves deeper into the investigation, Lucy uncovers a web of secrets and lies that lead her closer to the truth. With Christmas fast approaching, Lucy finds herself in the crosshairs of a killer who will stop at nothing to ensure that his dark secrets remain buried.
Join Lucy in this cozy mystery by Leslie Meier, set in her hometown of Tinker’s Cove, Maine, and get ready for a festive and fun holiday read. “Leslie Meier’s Lucy Stone Mysteries are the perfect cozy escape.” —Ellery Adams, New York Times bestselling author of The Book Retreat Mysteries
About the Author
Leslie Meier resides in two lovely locations – Braintree and Harwich (located on Cape Cod) in Massachusetts. She’s the mastermind behind the character ‘Lucy Stone’, a journalist and novice detective who resides in the imaginary coastal town of Tinker’s Cove, Maine.
Editoral Review
Mistletoe Murder, by Leslie Meier, is a cozy mystery novel that was first published on January 1, 1991. The author is known for her Lucy Stone series, where the main character is a sleuth who solves crimes in the small town of Tinker’s Cove.
In Mistletoe Murder, Meier takes readers on a holiday-themed murder investigation in the quaint village. The plot revolves around a Christmas party that turns deadly when the host is poisoned.
The story follows Lucy Stone as she works with the police to solve the crime, interviewing suspects and examining motives. The murder investigation takes place in the charming town of Tinker’s Cove, where the characters embrace the holiday spirit despite their fears of a killer lurking among them.
Throughout the novel, Meier infuses the story with cozy holiday traditions that add warmth to the plot. Characters rely on each other as they face challenges together and share the spirit of the season.
Meier also incorporates themes of forgiveness, redemption, and second chances, adding depth to the characters. The writing in Mistletoe Murder is easy to follow and enjoyable to read.
Meier crafts a compelling mystery that keeps the reader engaged until the end. She builds suspense with plausible red herrings and cliffhangers that keep the mystery a mystery until the big reveal at the end.
While Mistletoe Murder is enjoyable, it does not stand out in the mystery genre, and falls short in character development. The characters are forgettable, with few memorable quirks or traits that make them stand out.
The novel is also somewhat predictable, with few surprises or twists that readers may not have seen coming. That being said, Mistletoe Murder delivers a classic cozy mystery experience that will make readers feel like they are part of the tight-knit community of Tinker’s Cove.
Fans of the genre will appreciate the holiday-themed murder mystery, and Meier’s expert use of the cozy formula. In conclusion, Mistletoe Murder is a solid cozy mystery that delivers a fun, holiday-themed whodunit.
While it may lack depth in character development and surprise, it delivers a comfortable read that will delight cozy mystery fans. I would recommend this book for those who enjoy a lighthearted mystery with a festive feel.
Overall, I give Mistletoe Murder three out of five stars.
