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

I've really come to enjoy the Secret Bookcase mystery series by Ellie Alexander. I actually finished this book well before christmas, but I'm a little behind on posting my reviews. I'm really happy that the author has decided to have Annie and Fletcher buy the store from Hal. I'm really looking forward to future books in this series because the author is really good at crafting a murder mystery.

A Holiday Homicide is book 4in a series. I haven't read the previous books, and this works as a standalone. However, I do want to read the rest now, as it would help with the continuing story throughout.

Annie decides to hold a gingerbread baking competition at her bookstore. When an influencer is found dead during the event, Annie knows she has to solve the crime to save the event, and the reputation of her store. Can she figure it out?

I really like the mix of characters, and the bookstore sounds amazing, somewhere I'd like to visit! I like the story of Annie's murdered friend running throughout the series, I will definitely be looking out for the next book to see where that goes. A good cosy mystery.

A Holiday Homicide by Ellie Alexander is the fourth book in the Secret Bookcase Mystery series. It is the holiday season in Redwood Grove, and Annie Murray has once again agreed to host an event at the Secret Bookcase, This time, she is in charge of a town-wide gingerbread house building contest. To make things even more exciting, Lily Hawthorne, an extremely popular baking social media influencer, has come to town to stream the contest on her platform, and to announce the winners of the contest live. Annie is excited because this will mean more well deserved publicity for the bookstore, and for her friend, Sugar's, bakery. However, it soon becomes apparent to Annie that there is tension within Lily's entourage and that Lily is not as sweet as she appears online. Annie gets pulled into another mystery when she unfortunately finds Lily dead in the bookstore. Were the circumstances surrounding her death due to natural causes, or did someone want Lily dead?

This is my favorite book in the series so far. I love Annie! She is smart, caring, compassionate, and incredibly capable in handling these murder mysteries. I also love her friends, who are always supportive of her and her need to continue to solve these murders. I love her continuing relationship with Liam and how sweet he is to her. He obviously cares about her, and is there to lend a hand if needed. I can't wait to read the next one!

Thank you to #NetGalley and #Storm Publishing for the opportunity to this read this book.

So many unexpected things happens and the mystery engulfs Anna in the complex web of secrets, mystery, rivalry and suspense. While celebrity baker is found dead and investigation gets interesting.

Thanks to the Publisher

This is the fourth installment of this cozy mystery series, and this one sees the bookshop hosting a gingerbread baking competition.

When the baking competition goes
horribly wrong, Annie is back on the
case. Annie is always a likable character and a diligent detective. With the whole host of Christmas characters, this story is
perfect for those looking for a cozy
but fun holiday mystery that will keep you guessing until the very end!

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are my own.