A Nutcracker Nightmare
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Average rating3.5
Perfect for fans of Joanne Fluke and Laura Childs, when twin sisters Hanna and Alex help out at the local high school reunion, volunteering takes a turn when they find a former classmate's dead body. Hanna and Alex, owners of the Murder and Mayhem book and chocolate shop, are busy preparing for the Harriston High School’s reunion weekend. Neighbors will connect with old friends and perhaps try to avoid old foes. One person no one can avoid is Kyle, the former star quarterback, who is busy using his entire playbook to try and score with Hanna, even threatening her if she doesn’t play nice. At the reunion, Alex glimpses more drama than nostalgia as insults are flung around like a football at a Friday night game. The party is put on hold when Alex finds the dead body of none other than Kyle himself, bludgeoned to death by a nutcracker that the sisters admired earlier in the night. Hanna quickly becomes the prime suspect—someone saw her slap Kyle in the face at the reunion dance. She’ll need her sister, their sleuthing canine, Watson, and their old friends and colleagues to help break this case wide open. While looking through old yearbooks and taking a stroll down memory lane, Alex uncovers a few secrets about Kyle, now, it seems like everyone had a motive to kill him. But when the suspects start becoming the victims, Alex and Hanna know that they can’t melt under the pressure—they must find the killer before they become just another yearbook memory.
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2 primary books#2 in Killer Chocolate
Killer Chocolate is a 2-book series with 2 primary works first released in 2022 with contributions by Christina Romeril.
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Book Review: A Nutcracker Nightmare by Christina Romeril
Rating: 3 Stars
First off, let me start by saying that I absolutely adore the festive and eye-catching cover of A Nutcracker Nightmare by Christina Romeril. It immediately drew me in and set the tone for a cozy holiday-themed mystery. However, as much as I wanted to love this book like its predecessor, I found myself slightly disappointed.
The story revolves around twin sisters Hanna and Alex, owners of the Murder and Mayhem book and chocolate shop, as they prepare for Harriston High School's reunion. Excited to reunite with old friends and perhaps avoid old enemies, the sisters find themselves in the midst of a murder investigation when they stumble upon the dead body of a former classmate.
One of the book's strengths lies in its unique setting—a bookstore slash chocolate shop with chocolates named after poisons. This quirky concept adds an intriguing twist to the story and sets it apart from other cozy mysteries. Romeril's attention to detail in describing the shop and its delectable offerings is notworthy, making it a delight to imagine being there.
However, while the setting shines, the same cannot be said for the characters. In comparison to the first book in the series, Hanna and Alex were less likable in A Nutcracker Nightmare. Their actions and decisions at times left me frustrated and disconnected from their journey. Additionally, the sheer number of characters introduced throughout the story made it difficult to keep track of everyone, leading to confusion and a lack of depth in their development.
Furthermore, I found the identity of the culprit glaringly obvious from very early on. There was a lack of suspense and surprises, which are essential elements in a mystery novel. As a result, the plot felt predictable, leaving me wanting more intricate twists and turns.
In conclusion, while A Nutcracker Nightmare didn't quite live up to my expectations, it still had its charms. The unique setting of a bookstore slash chocolate shop is undoubtedly captivating, and I commend Romeril's ability to create an immersive environment within her writing. Although I found the characters less likable and the plot somewhat predictable, I am willing to give this series another chance with book three. Romeril has shown promise in her storytelling, and I hope to see growth and improvement in future installments.
⚠️This review was written based on personal opinions and experiences with the book. Individual preferences may vary⚠️
This is such a fun cozy mystery series. A Nutcracker Nightmare was a quick read that was the perfect way to kick off my Christmas reading.
This time the twins are helping out with a high school reunion that goes wrong and attendees end up dead. Alex, the ever sleuthing wonder, decides to investigate which, of course, surrounds her in danger.
I absolutely love the twins and their Murder and Mayhem book and chocolate shop. I seriously wish there was something like this where I live. I also love the way Alex thinks things through as we follow along her investigation.
Perfect for cozy mystery fans. Definitely go grab this one, and the first book as well, and enjoy! I sincerely appreciate the publisher and NetGalley for the review copy. All opinions expressed are my own.
