Christmas Is Murder

I found the book a delicious read that would bed perfect for some stolen moments around Christmas time especially. A touch of sophistication with the manor setting, the building unease with the locked room and the Christie-esque Graves looking into it all. History, atmosphere, somewhere exotic to be transformed to, the delight of peering into other people's lives...what is not to like? I hope that there will be more to follow.

This novel is a contemporary English manor house mystery centering on a "closed group" of suspects, per the classic style of mystery writing of the 1920s and 30s. The puzzle is solved by a vacationing Scots barrister who uses observation, gossip, and a keen insight into human nature to solve the multiple murders. A budding romance between the sleuth and one of the suspects is thrown into the mix, as are references to the Iraq War. The cast includes a gay couple in the antiques business, a nosy divorcee, a New York literary agent, a pair of newlyweds, an eccentric aristocrat, etc. Despite the murder and mayhem, the underlying theme, in the Christmas tradition, is goodwill to all men. "Christmas is Murder" received a starred review from Booklist (the American Library Association) and has been praised by many mystery reviewers. If you like cozy mysteries, it probably won't disappoint. If you prefer hard-boiled P.I. novels, this may not be your cup of tea... #2 in the Rex Graves Mystery Series: Murder in the Raw: A Rex Graves Mystery (Rex Graves)

This was like Agatha Christies "And Then There Were None" but more readable. I liked the sleuth Rex Graves. He does not try to be enigmatic like many mystery sleuths. I will read the next book when it comes out.

This mystery was recommended and had me turning the pages in total absorption until the very end. Good plot, compelling characters, humorous, and a little romance to-boot. The sleuth is a Scottish barrister from Edinburgh, very principaled and likeable. There's an exerpt at the back for the next Rex Graves mystery, "Murder in the Raw," which is set at an exclusive nudist resort in the French West Indies, and which I'll definitely read when it comes out!!

Rex Graves is a red-haired Scottish barrister who wants to spend Christmas in Swanmere Manor, an historic hotel in East Sussex. But a harsh blizzard and an unexpected murder ruin those plans. The murderer must be among the guests. There are several possibilities, and Rex must sort through several intriguing clues in a search for the truth. Challinor presents strong elements of mystery and suspense in a literary style that will remind you of Agatha Christie - at her best. This novel is one of the finest novels I've read in a long time. Fans of mystery will not be disappointed. Challinor is an author who will cause you to clear some space on your bookshelf in anticipation of her next offerings. Highest Recommendation!