Murder She Wrote meets Knives Out in Ally Carter’s newest release, a festive (and deliciously suspenseful) rivals to lovers mystery romance that had me utterly hooked. 

Much like her adult debut (The Blonde Identity), Carter weaves a heart-poundingly swift and swoon-worthy read with two phenomenally depth filled and endearing protagonists I couldn’t get enough of.

Maggie Chase, our self doubting, cosy mystery writer is still trying to come to terms with the loss of her husband when we first meet her. A year on from finding him in bed with her best (and only) friend. Emotionally bereft, her self esteem in the gutters and facing the first Christmas alone since her parents died (when she was eighteen) I was emotionally invested almost immediately. 

Her heartache and pain was incredibly evocative snd had me desperate to give her a hug soo much— especially with the flashbacks and anecdotes she lets slip as the story progresses. 

Ethan Wyatt, Maggie’s leather jacket wearing, thriller author rival (who she blames for every professional misfortune that has ever befallen her) was really endearing as well. 

His effortless ability to win over everyone riles up Maggie like nobody else, but their chemistry and banter was absolutely delicious! Ethan’s past and previous interactions with Maggie also gave amazing insight into his thoughts and feelings—which only made me love him more.

I adored the cleverly crafted plot twists too, which had me in super sleuth mode trying to figure them out. Alas, I was unsuccessful but I did guess a couple of the smaller things that were connected to the main twists— but the surprises were what really made this soo enjoyable. 

Overall, a thoroughly entertaining (locked room) mystery romance that even Agatha Christie would’ve been impressed with. I can’t wait to see what Carter writes nexts! 

Also thanks to Chloe over at Pan Macmillan for the finished copy.