Love love love this series! The whole town, all the characters. Their is always a great mystery and a great tense resolution. My complaint about this one was Holly, she just kind of got on my nerves in this one. She kept acting as if she never gets herself in any sort of trouble sleuthing when she has been almost killed a few times! I love the town and the games so that helped me still enjoy this one. Hope Holly is better in the next one.

“I’ll Be Home for Mischief” by Jacqueline Frost is a delightful addition to the Christmas Tree Farm Mystery series. Set in the charming town of Mistletoe, Maine, it perfectly captures the cozy holiday atmosphere while delivering a fun mystery. This time, innkeeper Holly White juggles festive preparations, a massive gingerbread project, and, of course, an unexpected murder investigation.

I loved revisiting Mistletoe and its quirky residents. The setting is so vivid and festive that it feels like stepping into a Hallmark movie—but with a bit more intrigue! The mystery itself is engaging, though not the most intense, but that’s part of the book’s charm. It’s more about enjoying the characters, the holiday spirit, and the small-town dynamics.

If you’re a fan of cozy mysteries, especially ones with a festive twist, this is a great addition to your holiday reading list. It’s light, entertaining, and filled with Christmas cheer—perfect for curling up with a warm drink on a winter night.

Another great cozy mystery! Thank you for the opportunity to review this book!

It was a fun installment for the holidays! Very enjoyable!

Jacqueline Frost delivers another charming holiday mystery with I’ll Be Home for Mischief, blending small-town coziness with a touch of suspense. Set in the festive town of Mistletoe, the story follows Holly White as she once again finds herself entangled in a whodunit just as the holiday season kicks off. With lovable characters, a dash of romance, and plenty of holiday charm, this book is perfect for cozy mystery lovers.

Frost’s writing keeps the pace engaging, balancing humor and intrigue while wrapping everything in a warm, Christmasy atmosphere. If you enjoy cozy mysteries with holiday magic and a bit of mischief, this one’s a must-read!

Mistletoe, Maine—where the snow is pristine, the gingerbread might be record-breaking, and the murder rate is starting to make Cabot Cove look downright peaceful. In "I'll Be Home for Mischief," Holly White is juggling life as an innkeeper, amateur sleuth, and wife to the very patient Sheriff Evan Gray. The town’s 150th anniversary is in full swing, complete with Victorian-themed festivities and the return of the mysterious Snow family. Meanwhile, Holly’s mom is out here dreaming big, hoping to put Mistletoe on the map for something other than murder by baking the world’s largest gingerbread man. But when Mr. Snow himself turns up dead in the batter, things go from festive to felonious faster than you can say Christmas calamity.

Jacqueline Frost once again delivers a perfect blend of holiday cheer, small-town quirk, and a mystery sharp enough to cut through the thickest fruitcake. Holly’s determination to clear mistletoe farmer Mr. Moore’s name lands her in a sleigh-load of trouble, complete with shady threats and sketchy break-ins. The chemistry between Holly and Evan is as cozy as a fireside cup of cocoa, and the town’s residents are as delightfully nosy and suspicious as ever. If there’s a downside, it’s that the middle gets a little slow, but the final reveal makes it all worth it—delivering a satisfying and twisty conclusion wrapped up in a big, glittery bow.

Never read the "Christmas Tree Farm Mystery" series? No worries—this book is as sturdy as a well-constructed gingerbread house (minus the structural integrity issues). Those returning will enjoy the deepening relationships and inside jokes, but newcomers can jump in without getting lost in a snowbank. I'm giving this latest entry in the series 4 out of five stars, because nothing says "holiday spirit" like murder, mayhem, and a gingerbread crime scene.

I’m late to reading this book but it definitely did not disappoint, a well written addition to this series!
The quirkiness makes for great storytelling, I loved the storyline and pace of the writing, highly recommend!
The main character Holly sees the seriousness of something going wrong when the little town of Mistletoe is attacked at Christmas time. With a world record attempt underway and preparations in full swing for the town’s 150th Anniversary, Holly prepares to make sure that no one’s disappointed.
The storyline concentrates on a cozy town at Christmas, the close knit community are all hopeful of wonderful celebrations. Holly is determined to right the wrongs and devotes herself to solving the crime, ensuring a merry Christmas for all!

Much appreciation to the publisher, NetGalley and the author for the opportunity to read and review this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

I received a copy of this book through Netgalley, but then the audiobook was part of a 2 for 1 credit sale on Amazon, so I ended up getting and listening to the audiobook. This is my honest review.

I listened to this as one of my 12 Books of Christmas challenge books, but then I failed to review it in time to count. Surely next year I'll do better, maybe. I knew I'd tire of Christmas romance cheese before the season was over, so this mystery was a very welcome change of pace that still included some fun Christmas magic scenes. For one thing, the plot circles around an attempt to break the world record for largest baked gingerbread cookie. While that's not necessarily typical Christmas tale fare, it's not far removed from holiday cookie decorating.

My main issue, and maybe the reason cozy mysteries really aren't for me is that I struggle to accept the idea that a local resident is a better detective than the actual detectives. Like if you're so good at it, why not get paid to do it. Granted some of why they are successful is because people are more willing to talk to them than the cops, but still.

That being said, I enjoyed most of the twists and turns this story took. I'm also intrigued by the sisters staying at the inn who seem to be connected to Santa.

Overall I give I'll Be Home for Mischief 2.9648 out of 5 stars.

I'll Be Home for Mischief by Jacqueline Frost is a delightful holiday mystery that combines festive cheer with a healthy dose of suspense. The fifth installment in the Christmas Tree Farm Mystery series, this book takes readers to the charming town of Mistletoe, Maine, where innkeeper Holly White is preparing for a magical Christmas. But when a body is discovered in the batter of a giant gingerbread man, Holly’s holiday plans quickly take a dark turn.

The town is celebrating its 150th anniversary, and with the Snow family returning for the occasion, tensions run high. Holly's mother, known for her delicious baked goods, had planned to make history by creating the world's largest gingerbread man—until a dead body turns up instead. Holly must now use her sleuthing skills to protect the innocent, particularly Mr. Moore, the local mistletoe farmer who’s accused of the crime.

With a mix of family dynamics, Christmas traditions, and a bit of danger, Frost weaves a cozy yet thrilling mystery. Holly’s balancing act between investigating the crime, supporting her guests, and preparing for her first wedding anniversary with Sheriff Evan Gray adds a personal touch to the story. The stakes rise as Holly receives threatening messages and an ominous warning, making for a race against time to uncover the truth.

Filled with Christmas charm and unexpected twists, I'll Be Home for Mischief is the perfect cozy mystery for fans of holiday-themed thrillers. Jacqueline Frost masterfully combines heartwarming moments with gripping suspense, making this a must-read for those who love a good mystery with their holiday cheer.

I'm always excited for another new installment in a "Christmas Tree Farm Mystery" series and eagerly await when the next one will arrive. Whenever trouble - usually murder - occurs, Holly is the perfect sleuth to take it up and solve the case with humor and Christmas-themed hijinks. There's lots of joy in this story as Holly and Evan are celebrating an anniversary - though even the celebration isn't without some drama - and Frost once again captures the beauty and community found in this town. It felt amazing stepping back into the world and spending time with these endearing characters. I can't wait to see what adventures await Holly and her friends next!

I love this Christmas tree farm series. The fifth book am doesn’t fail to deliver. The author really has expanded the characters and keeps delivering a Christmas themed murder.

I’ll be home for mischief by Jacqueline Frost was published November 12th 2024.

This book is the fifth installment in the Christmas Tree Farm Mystery and is the second book I’ve read in the series. I’ve heard so many mixed reviews from friends about this author but getting a chance to read book four and now five of this series I absolutely love the author and her writing is fantastic and really draws you in.

It was a week out from Christmas in the small town of Mistletoe in Maine and on Christmas Tree Farm, Holly White (now Gray) and her family were in full preparation. Holly's mum, a top baker who ran the Hearth, was preparing to attempt a world record for the largest gingerbread man. With the two judges due to arrive, Holly had the Inn well prepared for their guests. The original founders of Mistletoe, the Snow tamily, had a couple of tamily representatives arriving as well.
The town's 150th anniversary was set to be huge; the tourists expected would see the local businesses flat out - a real bonus for all concerned.
With staff and guests, podcasters, tourists and locals all surrounding the start of the big bake-off, the freezing temperatures and thick snow deterring no one, the shock of discovering a body in the batter saw Sheriff Evan Gray (Holly's husband) swing into action. And Holly, against the advice of Evan and her parents, once again began investigating. Would they discover who had committed murder and upset the spirit of Christmas? Or was Holly bringing danger on herself once again? And would Holly find the perfect gift for her and Evan's first anniversary?

I highly recommend this series to anyone to loves a good holiday cozy mystery.

Thank you author , Netgalley and publisher for allowing me the chance to read this ARC.

I'll Be Home for Mischief is the 5th book in The Christmas Tree Farm Mysteries. Each book can be read as a standalone, but you would miss some character development and personal story arcs. It’s Christmas time in Mistletoe, Maine, and also the town's 150th anniversary. As part of the celebrations, descendants of the founding family, the Snows, have returned for the first time in years. In an attempt to put Mistletoe on the map, Holly’s mother, and local baker, attempts to break a record by baking the world’s largest gingerbread man. The morning of the unveiling doesn't start well when Mr. Snow’s body ends up in the batter. When Mr. Moore, the local mistletoe farmer, is accused of the crime, Holly is determined to protect the sweet older man and begins her own investigation. Between hosting the inconsolable Mrs. Snow and other guests at the inn, receiving threatening messages telling her to stop her investigation, and preparing for her first wedding anniversary with Sheriff Evan Gray, she is one busy lady. Will she figure out who the killer is before she ends up in batter of her own?

I enjoy being back in Mistletoe and seeing all the characters that I have gotten to know over the last four books. Holly puts herself right in the middle of this one, even though both her parents and her husband, Sheriff Evan Gray, beg her to leave it alone. There aren't a lot of suspects, but I was sure I had it figured out, but as usual, I was wrong. This story had Holly in the most danger I have seen her in before. This is a suspenseful story with some twists, lots of danger, festive fun with games at the tree farm, a little romance, Christmas magic and a great mystery. Another great addition to this series.

I will never look at a gingerbread cookie the same way again! This fifth installment in the Christmas Tree Farm Mystery series was an absolute delight, mixing festive charm with a cleverly plotted murder mystery.

Where did that ending come from? I did not see it coming! With so much happening and a long list of suspects, the twists kept me on my toes right until the final reveal. This book reminded me exactly why I adore cozy mysteries—add Christmas into the mix, and it’s a definite win.

While I hadn’t read the first few books in the series, this didn’t hinder my enjoyment. That said, I’m now on the hunt to get my hands on the earlier installments! Jacqueline Frost’s easy, engaging writing style made for a relaxing and enjoyable read.

If you’re a fan of cozy mysteries with a festive flair, I highly recommend I'll Be Home for Mischief. It’s a perfect holiday escape that will leave you craving both cookies and more of Holly White’s sleuthing adventures.

Thank you to NetGalley, the author Jacqueline Frost, and the publisher Crooked Lane Books for providing an audiobook ARC in exchange for an honest review. #IllBeHomeforMischief #NetGalley

Part of series.
Love the whole Christmas theme stories.
Great characters with humor, mystery, suspense ,fun ,romance.
Voluntarily reviewed.

I loved book 4 in the series, but this book felt a bit like Holly’s character arc went backwards. I’m sure she has some PTSD from her nosy ass always getting in trouble. But she seemed oblivious about basic things during this book and it drove me insane.

I did enjoy the ending and Christmas surprises. And I love love the farm and reindeer games and all the little nods to Christmas magic hidden in plain sight. So I will continue to read these every Christmas season. But hopefully the next book doesn’t seem so meh.

This was by far my favorite book in this series! While you do not need to read the first four books, there are so many little inside jokes that are so much better if you do! Such a fun mystery read just in time for Christmas!

I love this series! After reading the first one, I've eagerly awaited the next installment in the series. Holly is looking forward to the Christmas season at Reindeer Games and celebrating her 1st anniversary with Evan. The town is hosting a Victorian Christmas, and her mother is trying to set a World Record for the largest gingerbread cookie when a body turns up in the batter. Holly, of course, can resist sticking her nose into the investigation.

It has all the Christmas feels. I love that they had two characters that may or may not be Mrs. Santa and Jack Frost. Always a solid mystery and wished the town actually existed. It would be a fun place to visit.

I’ll Be Home for Mischief

by Jacqueline Frost

The weather outside may be “frightful,” but an afternoon spent in Mistletoe, Maine, will be quite delightful for the readers of Jacqueline Frost’s I’ll Be Home for Mischief. With the whole tourist town celebrating its 150th Anniversary with full Victorian decor, the reader is immersed in all things Christmas. In fact, that is the town’s goal for visitors year round.

The main character, Holly, is the innkeeper for Reindeer Games Inn located on her parents’ Reindeer Games Tree Farm. As with most things in Mistletoe, citizens jump in to help each other when needed. Everything in Mistletoe has a Christmas theme and is intended to generate excitement and sales throughout the year.

Holly’s mom is determined to keep Mistletoe on everyone’s radar as she attempts to win the Guinness Book of World Records by baking the world’s largest gingerbread man. Everything has been carefully thought through and prepared, but when the dump truck disguised as a huge sleigh receives the tray with cookie dough on it via a crane, the unveiling for the audience produces an unwelcome surprise. Holly’s husband Evan is the local sheriff and he is immediately called to the scene.

The rest of I’ll Be Home for Mischief follows the usual next steps for a cozy mystery. Holly, who has a reputation for amateur investigating, just can’t resist despite her husband’s concern and warnings. There are lots of suspects and some danger lurking in the shadows. A little romance and some positive surprises are thrown into the mix.

Warning: these people bake and eat high carb treats like there is no tomorrow. They also caffeinate regularly. I think that must be how people survive the cold and snow of Maine. So, have some snacks and hot chocolate available for yourself while reading. After all, ambiance is critical when reading Christmas books!

I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Rating: 5/5

Category: Mystery, Fiction, Women’s Fiction

Notes: #5 in the Christmas Tree Farm Mystery Series. Thanks to the author’s skillful writing, it can easily be read as a standalone.

Publication: November 12, 2024—Crooked Lane Books

Memorable Lines:

My maternal grandmother had infuriatingly tight lips. She never repeated anything that might be construed as gossip. Her advice, on the other hand, rarely stopped flowing. Especially when no one asked.

No amount of caffeine would ever get me moving like a ten-degree morning.

The lesson I hated most was that people sometimes did things in the space of a few minutes that they’d regret for the rest of their lives.

This is the fifth book in the Christmas Tree Farm series and I thoroughly enjoyed it! I don't think it's my favorite in the series but overall I have loved these characters and the mysteries surrounding this Christmas town. I hope there will be more in the series yet to come. I enjoyed the sweet romance and the mystery, and I have loved that these are clean and honestly not much romance either so if you are not a huge romance lover you may enjoy these as well. I think this book probably had the most romance in it so far in the series.

*thank you to #NetGalley for a complimentary copy of this book to read. All thoughts are my own.

I love the cozy murder mysteries, especially the ones by Jacqueline Frost. I love how all the characters fit together and care about each other. I gave it three stars because although I enjoyed it, I just feel like after 5 books it is getting a little redundant. If there is another one I hope it is a little different then what has been happening in all the others. That being said, I know I can always get that cozy, christmasy feeling from this series.