Holiday Homicide is the 4th book in the Secret Bookcase Mystery series by Ellie Alexander. It's nearing Christmas and Annie gets a request from her friend Sugar at the local bakery. An influencer that has made baking fashionable, wants to hold an event in Redwood Grove, specifically at the Secret Bookcase Bookshop. She wants to host a Gingerbread House contest. Annie immediately agrees and they will also participate. The idea is to put Redwood Grove and Sugar's Baker on the map. Lily is not a very nice person, she is self-centered and not happy with anyone who might take the attention away from her. When she "accidentally" destroys Sugar's gingerbread town, it seems to be because it is better than what she created. When she ends up dead, Sugar is one of the main suspects, but so is her superfan/stalker. Lily's assistant, Becca wants the show to go one and puts together a speech that she wants Annie to give about how wonderful Lily was. Who killed Lily and why?

I am not a fan of influencers and this story shares a big reason why. They seem to be narcissistic and not very nice, at least that is my impression and definitely how Lily is portrayed in this story. I enjoyed this mystery, although I figured out who the murderer was quite early. The investigation was okay, with Liam helping out when needed. There were only a few viable suspects, which is why I figured this one out. I still enjoyed the story and once again, enjoyed seeing Liam's and Annie's relationship growing. The ending shared information about Annie's friend Scarlet who was killed ten years ago. With only two more books before this series ends, I sure hope we get an answer soon. The characters in this series are like a family. They are well drawn, support one another, are great friends and all play a role in the mystery. Although I enjoyed this one, it was a bit too easy to solve.

The link blelow is my spoiler free review of A Holiday Homicide. If you have any questions please feel free to reach out.

https://youtu.be/fAauBBzVlQE

I believe by far this is my favorite book of this series. From the cover art; the colors are captivating along with the design of the town.

Although I love Annie and The Secret Bookcase environ, there was a bit more darkness in 'A Holiday Homicide' than I normally like. I appreciate the progression of the relationship with Liam, yet still with secrets to be shared. Ellie Alexander is a master at creating opportunities for future reveals that don't qualify as annoying cliff hangers. I for one am looking forward to those reveals and look forward to more in the A Secret Bookcase Mystery series.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley. The opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.

*A Holiday Homicide* is a cozy mystery that brings holiday cheer with a dash of suspense. Annie Murray’s quiet plans at the Secret Bookcase are quickly derailed when a celebrity baker is found dead during a gingerbread-baking competition, and what was supposed to be a festive event becomes the scene of a sinister crime.

The small-town setting of Redwood Grove is a charming backdrop for this mystery, and Annie is an engaging protagonist who, with the help of her colleagues and new love interest, Liam, sets out to uncover the truth. The dynamics of the baking community add an interesting layer to the plot, showing that the world of sugar and spice might not be as sweet as it appears. The pacing is steady, and the mystery unfolds with enough twists and turns to keep you intrigued.

The interactions between Annie and her colleagues, particularly her blossoming romance with Liam, provide warmth and light-hearted moments amid the darker mystery. However, there are moments where the story feels a little predictable, and some of the small-town rivalries could have been explored in more depth.

That said, *A Holiday Homicide* does a solid job of blending holiday cheer with the thrills of a cozy mystery. The ending provides a satisfying resolution, making it a fun, quick read for fans of the genre. While not a standout, it’s an enjoyable addition to the seasonal mystery lineup.

You can’t go wrong with cozy mystery’s it’s so much fun to read them and enjoy the simple who done it with less gross scenes. I will definitely be reading more books by this author.

Note: Thank you to NetGalley, Storm Publishing, and author Ellie Alexander for the advanced reader copy of this book. What follows is my unbiased review of the book.

This is the fourth book in author Ellie Alexander’s Secret Bookcase Mystery series. It’s not that far into the series that I felt like I missed a lot. There are a few things that left me wondering exactly what had gone on in previous books as part of an ongoing story that seems to occupy the central figure of the series. Overall, however, this did very well on its own.

In the town of Redwood Grove, the festive holiday season is a big deal. Annie Murray has ambitious plans for a gingerbread competition at the Secret Bookcase, which is the bookshop she works in. They’ve managed to snag a popular baking influencer, Lily Hawthorne, as a judge. At the same time, Annie is struggling to decide where her life is going to go from here. She’s in a relatively new relationship with Liam, owner of a local pub. She has a degree in criminal justice but has been happy working at the bookstore. Hal, the owner, would like Lily and her coworker Fletcher to buy him out.

The day of the gingerbread competition arrives. There are some great entries, including a local baker named Sugar who is giving Lily’s entry a run for her money. Unfortunately, as Lily is streaming to her followers, she “accidentally” falls into Sugar’s creation, ruining it. The remainder of the first day seems to go off without a hitch until Annie is trying to clean up at closing time and discovers Lily, dead.

Annie is drawn into the mystery surrounding Lily’s death. At first, it seems like it might be due to a heart condition she’s had since birth. The investigation leads Annie and local law enforcement to believe it was murder. Could it be the overzealous stalker Lily rebuffed earlier that day? Could it be Sugar, who was promised all kinds of favorable promotions by Lily only to end up on the receiving end of unwarranted vitriol? Could it be Lily’s prickly assistant, Becca, who seems to be the real talent behind Lily’s success? Or the high school culinary teacher who may have stolen Lily’s prize recipe? Or the corporate lackey who’s been trying to rope Lily into an endorsement deal?

While Annie is investigating all of this, an ongoing mystery of her best friend’s murder seems to catch a break. A former worker at the company Annie and Scarlet (the deceased friend) were investigating agreed to talk to her. While she is dealing with the holiday rush and trying to solve Lily’s murder, she’s also wondering if talking to this man will put her in danger.

The Holiday Homicide is a good read. I was lost a bit with the ongoing cold case surrounding the murder of Scarlet. There’s enough information given that I was generally able to follow it. The same goes for the romance between Annie and Liam. It’s apparent there was some friction between them for a while before they started dating, but the background isn’t given. To learn more about either of these, I would have to go back to the first three books.

Overall, though, I enjoyed it. The characters were interesting and well-written. Annie encounters a lot of people in the California town. It seems like the perfect setting for Christmas in California, and the townspeople exhibit a festive spirit. Handling the death of an internet celebrity means trying to control the information getting out, especially before her family is informed. Becca seems more concerned with maintaining Lily’s brand than mourning her friend, which is suspicious but not unheard of. I second-guessed myself a bunch of times while reading this book and it kept me guessing as to what was happening.

I would definitely go back to the beginning as the characters and setting are interesting enough to keep me watching this series. I don’t think you have to have read the previous books to enjoy The Holiday Homicide, but it would help. The ongoing mystery gets another piece of the puzzle here, which seems like it’s going to be continued throughout the series. To understand that, I’d have to read earlier books, but just for the mystery at the heart of this book I could follow the characters with no problems.

Visiting the Secret Bookcase in Redwood Grove, California, is a delight for mystery lovers throughout the year. The allure of this independent bookstore can be found in every cozy corner of the old manor house, with décor designed to honor Agatha Christie. During the Christmas holiday season, the enchantment is particularly magical. Soon, all visitors' senses would tingle during the first-ever Gingerbread Bake-off, hosted in partnership with Sweet Room, the local bakery with a prominent social media influencer as a special guest. Even before the winners are tabulated, an unexpected event will spark conversations that extend beyond the gingerbread entries.

The bookshop owner and employees share a close-knit relationship in a small-town setting. The author’s descriptive writing vividly brings the holiday season to life, starting the storyline with sparkling visions of delectable gingerbread crafted into dreamy creations that will be announced as the winner of one of the six event categories.

Readers of the series are familiar with investigations that never fail to intrigue. The cleverly placed red herrings play a crucial role in building suspense, shifting the focus from a certain person of interest to the implausible suspect. The progress in Rebecca’s ongoing investigation of a cold case that is deeply personal to her, along with growth in her romantic interest, especially with seasonal magic, adds to the charm of this holiday offering.

Reviewer’s Note: Each novel can be enjoyed on its own; however, reading them in order highlights the gradual evolution of the bookstore’s marketing strategies, the development of Rebecca’s investigation into a cold case, and the progression of her relationship with a local pub owner.

Thank you to Ellie Alexander, Storm Publishing, and NetGalley for the opportunity to read an eARC of this novel.

**3.5-Star Review:**

*A Holiday Homicide* (A Secret Bookcase Mystery Book 4) by Ellie Alexander is a solid cozy mystery that delivers on suspense and intrigue. The bookshop setting is a fantastic idea, and I loved the clever mystery that unfolds within its walls. The plot kept me entertained, and there were some great twists along the way. However, I did feel like the romance aspect could have been more fleshed out. It was a bit lacking compared to the suspense, which left me wanting a bit more from that side of the story. Still, it's a fun and enjoyable read for anyone who loves a good cozy mystery with a hint of holiday cheer!

A celebrity baker, a top hot influencer arrives to promote a gingerbread house competition at the book store. Annie is delighted and the fun is only starting when the influencer dies. Is it murder or was it just a sad death. Annie is on the job and it might be the first investigation of the new business she’s is ready to commence. There are a lot of moving parts, including possible stalkers, jealous rivals and so many others. And how does this fit into the overwhelming investigation of her best friend Scarlet’s murder. While she does attempt to keep as safe as possible, Annie is going into dangerous situations. Luckily, there are friends who have her back. But even they cannot keep an eye on her every moment of the day.

Lots of questions pop up as Annie seems to make headway. Even once she figures out the primary murder, the long term questions about the murder that makes the most difference to Annie are still unanswered. She is going to have to proceed with caution.

Four purrs and two paws up.

Not sure if it was because I’d not read any of the previous books but I really struggled to get into this book. You are a quarter of the way in before the death occurs and by that point I was already bored. Too much waffle for my liking which is why I then ended up more skim reading the rest of the book rather than being glued to it.

Brought to you by OBS reviewer Andra

The fourth book in the Secret Bookcase Mystery series by Ellie Alexander is a definite hit with me! A Holiday Homicide embraces all that I cherish in a cozy mystery, infused with a holiday seasoned theme – what more could one ask for? Engaging characters, interesting whodunit which captured my interest throughout and wonderful character development.

Redwood Grove is abuzz with the latest event being hosted by the Secret Bookcase – a gingerbread house competition. Talk about getting someone in the holiday mood – the following passage certainly got to me:

“The bookstore was my favorite place on the planet on an average ordinary day, but during the holidays, it was pure magic. Festive jazz music drifted along the corridors of the restored English country estate that now housed the largest mystery bookshop on the West Coast. I made my way to the Foyer, where dazzling golden twinkle lights greeted me, along with two small Christmas trees flanking the front doors.”

Okay – back to the story. The Secret Bookcase is holding a competition, with many Gingerbread House baker’s in attendance. Stiff competition unfortunately yields a tragic event – the death of Lily – a social media influencer and baker! And of course with this happening, Annie is driven to piece together the series of events that have lead to this death. We find out the baking community is certainly not all sweetness, but a ruthless bunch of baker’s! Who would have thought? There are many red herrings to keep readers guessing. And if I am being truthfully honest – that is the way I like my cozy mysteries – guessing until the end.

Annie and her new beau Liam are also progressing nicely in the advancement of their relationship. I am quite enjoying this slow burn; happy they are not rushing their relationship.

I enjoyed the interaction between Pri (Annie’s bestie) and Annie as they are walking to the pub, moving towards Annie’s opportunity of taking a step to bringing Scarlett’s killer to justice – talk about nervous (both Annie and this reader). This also reminded me of discussions re: Santa I had with my parents previously as a child:

“I can’t remember a time I was this nervous, and also strangely excited,” I admitted. “It’s kind of like Christmas Eve. I was also super excited for presents and slightly terrified of actually seeing Santa Claus.”

“Totally normal. It’s a strange dude coming down the chimney. Think about the lyrics to ‘Santa Claus is Comin’ to Town’. ‘He sees you when you’re sleeping. He knows when you’re awake.’ Stalker much?” She laughed and squeezed my hand tighter as the pathway spilled out onto the village square.”

Concurrently, she is also moving along her fact finding mission with respect to the events that lead to Scarlet’s death all those years ago. The death which occurred while Annie and Scarlet were investigating a cold case as part of the requirements for a criminology course they were taking.

The continuing steps Annie is taking towards solving the murder of Scarlett throughout this series is a theme which, if you have not read the series from the beginning, warrants the reader to start the series at the beginning as this will add depth to the stories as each are read. The reader will understand Annie’s motivation and get a real sense of her history. Though note that A Holiday Homicide can be read as a stand alone.

I am so thrilled with this series and this latest installment. If you enjoy cozy mysteries, excellent story telling, Christmas themed stories and baked goods (and who doesn’t), then pick up a copy of A Holiday Homicide and get settled for a cozy read 🙂

Christmas is just around the corner, and Annie Murray, a local bookstore worker, is stoked to be hosting a gingerbread baking competition at the Secret Bookcase in Redwood Grove. I mean, who doesn't love gingerbread? Local baker Sugar has managed to score a celebrity influencer to attend, which basically guarantees a sold-out event. But things take a dark turn when a body is discovered in the bookstore, and Annie finds herself trading in her baking skills for sleuthing. On top of that, she's got some major life decisions to make - two job offers, a new romance, and the chance to finally uncover the truth about her best friend's death a decade ago. With danger lurking around every corner, Annie's got her work cut out for her. Luckily, she's got her friends to help her out. Book four in Ellie Alexander's Secret Bookcase Mystery Series is a real game-changer. With a murder investigation, job offers, and a romantic Christmas on the horizon, Annie's got her plate full. But somehow, it all works together seamlessly. I'm loving Annie, Pri, Liam, and the rest of the gang, and the scenes in the bookstore are always a hoot. Book five is just around the corner, and I'm dying to know what's next for these intertwining storylines. This book is a real treat, but fair warning - there are some spoilers, so you might want to read these in order.

When a popular influencer baker comes to town to host a gingerbread bake-off at the Secret Bookcase, local baker Sugar and bookstore manager Annie are thrilled by the opportunity to promote their businesses and the town. But things quickly go awry when the influencer accidentally topples Sugar's gingerbread house, a stalker fan arrives, and the influencer ends up dead. As chaos unfolds, Annie steps up, eager to apply her criminology expertise and team up with the local police to solve the mystery.

I’ve really enjoyed this series! Having read the first five books (and eagerly awaiting the sixth and final one), I can easily say it’s become one of my favorites.

Ellie Alexander's latest installment in the Secret Bookcase Mystery series is just what you would hope to find in a Christmas Cozy mystery. I enjoyed the characters, the setting, and the storyline. I looked forward to curling up with this book and read it quickly. Thank you to NetGalley and Storm Publishing for the ARC!

I absolutely love this series, and this was another wonderful installment. Great characters, wonderful pacing, and a fun mystery. I can’t wait for more!!

Another fun entry in the Secret Bookcase mystery series! I loved the gingerbread festival/competition idea and thought it added a lovely touch. As always, Alexander weaves a solid mystery with enough red herrings to keep you guessing. I’m super intrigued to see how the next stage of Annie’s long term investigation goes and I’m looking forward to the evolution of the bookshop!

I am in love with the Secret Bookcase Mystery series. This is the 4th title featuring Annie Murray & friends at the Secret Bookcase bookstore. This time around, the holidays are coming & Annie has arranged for a baking influencer to come to the bookstore for a gingerbread baking competition. The store is getting featured, a local bakery is being featured, and things are going great until someone drops dead at the event. Annie, her boyfriend Liam, her best friend Pri, and coworker/friend, Fletcher are on the case.

Another enjoyable read. The characters & setting are fun. Annie continues to develop across the series. The mystery is engaging. There's a charm to this series & this character that I truly appreciate. I'd recommend this title & the entire series (starting with The Body in the Bookstore). I would love to go to Redwood Grove to visit the Secret Bookcase & all of the other locations mentioned in this book if they existed. It's warm & cozy.



I requested and received an Advance Reader Copy of this book from Storm Publishing and NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my OWN.

In the fourth Secret Bookcase mystery novel, readers join Annie Murray and her friends in Redwood Grove for a new holiday-themed event at the Secret Bookcase that will continue to boost local businesses and bring the community together when their guest celebrity baker drops dead during the gingerbread house competition. As whispers of foul play and of secret rivalries and stolen recipes consume the town and the investigation, Annie once again finds herself at the center of the mystery working to solve it with the support of Liam and her colleagues at the bookstore. Before the murderer strikes again, Annie must learn that the world of baking social media is not what it seemed -- and figure out who is trying to kill her. A fantastic holiday continuation of this already brilliant cozy small-town mystery series, the newest title is a thrilling and high stakes holiday murder mystery that readers of the series and other similar titles will absolutely love. The characters, particularly Annie, continue to draw attention as they grow and develop, while readers will love returning to Redwood Grove for the holiday season and a new murder mystery that will make Annie and her friends work to solve it in time.

When an influencer baker arrives in town to host a gingerbread bake-off at the Secret Bookcase, local baker Sugar and bookstore manager Annie think it will be a great way to help publicize their businesses and the town. But when the influencer knocks over Sugar's gingerbread house, a stalker fan shows up, and the influencer ends up dead, the event goes from bad to worse. Thankfully, Annie is prepared to put her criminology background and skills to use, and teams up with the local police to catch a killer.

I have, really, really been enjoying this series. After now having read the first five books (and not-so-patiently waiting for the sixth and final one), I can say that this is one of my favorites. Of course, a dash of holiday cheer really levels up a cozy mystery, and it didn't hurt that I was reading it in December. But Annie and the gang are a fun cast of characters and each mystery has been cleverly constructed. I can also tell we're getting closer to the final reveal of who murdered Annie's best friend, back in college! Can't wait to see the conclusion...

Thanks to the publisher for my eARC! All thoughts and opinions are my own.

5 stars - 9/10