Synopsis

In Nancy Coco’s eighth Candy-Coated Mystery, Christmas on Mackinac Island brings a flurry of festive activity for fudge shop owner Allie McMurphy–but also a body in a snowbank. With fun recipes, cute pets, quirky characters, and an endearing young protagonist, the Candy-Coated Mysteries have the perfect ingredients for cozy mystery fans!

All Allie wants for Christmas is for renovations to be finished on the Historic McMurphy Hotel and Fudge Shop so she can move back home for the holidays. But for now she’s staying in her friend Frances’ apartment, busily baking batches of holiday fudge. After someone leaves a mysterious note on the door to meet up, the curious fudge maker goes to the rendezvous with her Bichonpoo, Mal–only to discover a woman facedown in a snowdrift. With her dying breath, the woman gasps, “Frances.” The police suspect she named her killer, but Allie knows that’s impossible. She needs to wrap up this case before the trail runs cold–and give her friend the gift of freedom this Christmas season…

Review

Have Yourself a Fudgy Little Christmas by Nancy CoCo

My rating: 3 of 5 stars

This was so fun. I’d recommend it to anyone looking for a cute, linear mystery storyline that will make you feel the Christmas spirit. And dog lovers.

The Story
It was amusing with an adorable backdrop in Mackinac Island, complete with a fudge, shops, pets, and a snow storm.

It was I’m just realizing this is a series. I felt there were a lot of characters to keep track of, being introduced to so many in one book, but now this makes sense. I think those reading in series will have a certain deeper connection to some I don’t think I had and a better orientation to who is who which might make for a fuller experience than I had. Everyone had a lot of character though, especially on the pet side of things which I really loved. Some parts were so hilarious too.

I liked the lightheartedness and made for a perfect, finish in one sitting, Christmas Day read.

The Writing
It was quick and snappy, which I quite enjoyed for the most part. There were some bits that were drawn out and a lot more dialogue than I cared for, at times it seemed repetitive. However, it is such a short read that my book reading progression wasn’t overshadowed by it too much.

Also the recipes, namely various types of quick-made fudge, were delightful.

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