Readers

Tuesday, December 5, 2023

# 2023 # Book Review

#BookReview: The Twelve Suspects of Christmas



Description

Grannies, gangsters, murders—and a rollicking journey across France!

It’s January 4, 1961, and Marseilles housemaid Annie Malian is in love. It’s also the day her fiancé René takes his life under peculiar circumstances.

Many decades later, an old Christmas postcard addressed to Annie arrives, and all her doubts come flooding back.

At 84, there’s no time to waste!

Annie enlists the help of Rose Tassy, an eccentric retired teacher and amateur sleuth.

Thus begins an unforgettable journey from Provence to a quaint village in Picardie and then on to the sparkling Riviera, with a detour through wintry Paris.

Amid yuletide festivities, Annie and Rose navigate perilous terrain. Their list of suspects quickly grows. Was it Rene’s older brother? Maybe the ex-gangster turned chicken farmer? The powerful Monegasque tycoon?

Stumped, Rose begins to question her detective mettle when a new death compounds the plot…

This Christmas, will Annie receive the overdue truth as a gift?

MY REVIEW:
The 12 Suspects of Christmas by Ana T. Drew is a delightful and entertaining holiday-themed mystery that is guaranteed to put you in a festive mood. This lighthearted whodunit is filled with quirky characters, clever plot twists, and a healthy dose of humor that will keep readers guessing until the very end.

The story revolves around Julia Blake, a private investigator who finds herself spending Christmas in the idyllic town of Mistletoe-on-Sea. She soon discovers that a murder has occurred, and with twelve eccentric suspects all with motives, it's up to Julia to gather clues and unravel the mystery. Drew's writing style is engaging and flows smoothly, allowing readers to become fully immersed in the world she has created.

One of the strengths of The 12 Suspects of Christmas is the colorful cast of characters. Each suspect is wonderfully developed, with their own unique quirks and personalities. From the grumpy old lady who believes she's Santa Claus to the mysterious magician with a bag full of tricks, Drew has created a captivating ensemble that adds depth and entertainment to the story. The interactions between the characters are witty and often humorous, making them all the more memorable.

Another aspect that shines in this book is the clever and intricate plot. Drew crafts a puzzle-like mystery that keeps readers engaged from beginning to end. The clues are cleverly sprinkled throughout the narrative, allowing readers to play detective alongside Julia. Every chapter reveals new tidbits of information and unexpected twists that heighten the suspense and keep you eagerly turning pages.

The holiday setting adds a charming and whimsical touch to the story. Mistletoe-on-Sea is beautifully described, with its cozy little shops, festive decorations, and the excitement of the Christmas season in the air. The author successfully creates a warm and inviting atmosphere that enhances the reading experience and adds an extra layer of enjoyment.

While The 12 Suspects of Christmas is undeniably a fun and engaging read, there were a few moments when the pacing seemed to slow down slightly, which prevented me from giving it a full five-star rating. However, this minor issue didn't significantly detract from the overall enjoyment of the book.

The 12 Suspects of Christmas is a delightful holiday-themed mystery that will leave you guessing until the very end. Ana T. Drew's knack for creating charming characters, weaving clever plot twists, and incorporating humor make this a highly enjoyable read. If you're looking for a lighthearted and entertaining mystery to curl up with during the holiday season, this book is the perfect choice.

Grab a cup of hot cocoa, snuggle under a cozy blanket, and get ready to embark on a merry adventure through the puzzling case of The 12 Suspects of Christmas.

RATING: 4/5




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