Publishers Weekly
08/19/2024
Carter (The Blonde Identity) spins a clever romantic mystery with a Christmassy twist. It’s cozy mystery author Maggie Chase’s first Christmas since her husband left her for her best friend, in the wake of which she developed mild agoraphobia. Making things worse, practically every traumatic incident in Maggie’s life has happened around Christmas, including the deaths of both her parents. But her luck might be changing: Maggie’s publisher forces her into attending a Christmas house party in England hosted by Eleanor Ashley, her longtime literary idol. Eleanor’s gathered a who’s who of mystery authors, including Maggie’s nemesis, Ethan Wyatt. Maggie hopes Ethan’s presence will be the only wrinkle in an otherwise delightful holiday—until Eleanor disappears. At first, it seems Eleanor’s playing a game, forcing the authors to compete for the privilege of being her coauthor by following clues to find her. But when a fellow houseguest is poisoned, the stakes become all too real. As Maggie and Ethan join forces to investigate, their animosity slowly turns to love. Carter’s impressive plotting means the final, Agatha Christie–esque reveal is a genuine surprise, and she pulls off the enemies-to-lovers trope beautifully. Romantic suspense fans on the hunt for something festive will want to snap this up. Agent: Kristin Nelson, Nelson Literary. (Sept.)
From the Publisher
The Most Wonderful Crime of the Year by Ally Carter blends genres with the expert hand of a bartender crafting the perfect gingerbread martini.”
— People
"Full of tongue-in-cheek humor, excellent dialogue, and fantastic characters, this expertly crafted story from Carter (The Blonde Identity) is a heart-melting rivals-to-lovers romance combined with a delightful locked-room mystery." — Library Journal (starred review)
“Perfect for fans of “Knives Out” and “The Hating Game,” this enemies-to-lovers cat-and-mouse game boasts serious stakeouts and charged make-outs.” — Washington Post
"A vastly entertaining rom-com/mystery hybrid." — BookPage (Starred review)
“Carter spins a clever romantic mystery with a Christmassy twist. [Her] impressive plotting means the final, Agatha Christie–esque reveal is a genuine surprise, and she pulls off the enemies-to-lovers trope beautifully. Romantic suspense fans on the hunt for something festive will want to snap this up.” — Publishers Weekly
“If you watched Knives Out and thought it could have used a little more romance, Ally Carter’s upcoming enemies-to-lovers romance should be right up your alley.” — Paste Magazine
“This book with Knives Out vibes is a fast-paced, witty treat.” — Bookriot
“If you’re not a fan of Ally Carters, you will be after reading this book!” — Fresh Fiction
“The book is chock-full of romance, mystery and wintry vibes. It is the ultimate love letter to the cozy mystery genre: fun, funny and smart.”
— The Michigan Daily
“This book is charming in every possible way. This book just got better and better with every twist and reveal. Original, compelling, well-written and immersive, this is a great book to escape into. It is perfect for right now, for the holidays, and for re-reading, which I will definitely be doing very soon.” — Smart Bitches, Trashy Books
“Carter cleverly and comedically pokes fun at clichés that are sure to bring comfort and joy to readers familiar with the tropes of genre fiction.” — Crime Reads
Library Journal
★ 08/01/2024
Mystery writer Maggie Chase accepts an anonymous invitation to spend Christmas at an English country house, but she's horrified to find thriller writer Ethan Wyatt, whom she detests, headed to the same place. When they arrive, she is also surprised to learn that her hero, mystery author Eleanor Ashley, is their host. As the remaining guests arrive, a snowstorm descends on the remote estate, and Eleanor disappears from her locked office. Convinced that this must be a game, Maggie searches for clues, but when someone shoots at her, she reluctantly teams up with Ethan to figure out what's going on. As they investigate, Maggie realizes that there is far more to Ethan than the smug, self-assured persona he presents to the world. Still recovering from her divorce and years of gaslighting by her ex-husband, Maggie finds it difficult to trust Ethan—or herself. As flashbacks reveal the history between Maggie and Ethan and the present offers moments of confession, readers will adore how Ethan makes Maggie feel seen and cherished and will cheer as Maggie gains confidence. VERDICT Full of tongue-in-cheek humor, excellent dialogue, and fantastic characters, this expertly crafted story from Carter (The Blonde Identity) is a heart-melting rivals-to-lovers romance combined with a delightful locked-room mystery.—Melissa DeWild
OCTOBER 2024 - AudioFile
Saskia Maarleveld and Zachary Webber narrate this suspenseful romantic suspense. Maggie Chase writes cozy mysteries, and Ethan Wyatt writes popular thrillers. Maggie hates Ethan. Both have been invited to attend a Christmas party at an English estate. Upon arrival, Maggie and Ethan are stunned to find out that world-famous mystery writer Eleanor Ashley is hosting the party; then she disappears. Maarleveld expressively portrays Maggie's inquisitive and passionate nature as she works diligently to learn what happened to Eleanor. Webber's warm, mellow voice gives Wyatt a calm assurance as he helps Maggie--and falls for her along the way. Listeners will be fully immersed from start to finish as these two team up to solve the mystery. J.J.M. © AudioFile 2024, Portland, Maine
