It’s December in Cornwall, and newlywed Jodie “Nosey” Parker is looking forward to Christmas with husband, DCI Nathan Withers; teenaged daughter, Daisy; and feisty 70-something mum, Shirley, now firmly settled in an adjacent mother-in-law apartment. Jodie, a copper turned trained chef, has agreed to cater the opening night of the Penstowan Player’s annual Christmas pantomime. The players are performing Aladdin this year, and Daisy, childhood bestie Tony Penhaligon, and Shirley (not to mention half the village) are all taking part. But when murder strikes on opening night, long-held secrets are unearthed and the lives of the cast and crew are upended. Soon enough, Jodie gets to do what she does best—solving murders and poking her nose where it doesn’t belong.

Those jonesing for a pre-holiday mystery treat will not be disappointed. There’re mince pies galore, lots of red herrings, old secrets, and a town adjusting to the shock of the new while still maintaining time-worn traditions. I love reading Christmas cozy mysteries before the season begins, and The Cornish Christmas Pantomime Murder doesn’t disappoint. Those navigating blended families, multigenerational living, and perimenopause will appreciate Fiona Leitch’s modern take on juggling families, career, friendships, perimenopause, and murder. A fun, fast read that will put you in the Christmas spirit—I highly recommend.

Many thanks to NetGalley and Harper Collins’s One More Chapter for an ARC.

My thanks to NetGalley and the publisher, One More Chapter, for letting me read and review an advanced copy of ‘The Cornish Christmas Pantomime Murder’, by Fiona Leitch.

What’s more to love! It’s Cornwall, it’s Christmas, it’s theater! Unfortunately, there is a murder. Ex-cop, Jodie Parker, and her husband, DCI Nathan Withers, must solve the case, especially, since her family members are part of the suspect pool (members of the pantomime cast).

This was a delightful Christmas read, as it had engaging characters, a murder investigation with the usual twists, a wonderful Christmas in Cornwall setting, and the right amount of mystery.

This cosy murder mystery is even better because it’s set at Christmas! While possibly the best in the series so far, it could also be read as a stand alone. There is humour throughout the book and the relationships between the characters are a real strength. I also love the Cornish setting. This is a great read in the run up to Christmas.

"Pantomime season has arrived in the brand new hilarious murder mystery from Fiona Leitch. Available to pre-order now!

It's Christmas in Penstowan, and local amateur dramatics group the Penstowan Players are putting on their annual pantomime.

This year it's 'Aladdin,' and half the town have been drafted in to help, including Shirley Parker, who only has a small part in the chorus but will no doubt upstage everybody, and Tony Penhaligon, who's treading the boards as the baddie, Abanazar. Ex-Metropolitan police officer turned caterer Jodie Parker has managed to get away with not appearing, but only if she agrees to cater the opening night party.

But it's not just terrible jokes, quick costume changes and backstage chaos that wait in the wings...When the Widow Twankey (otherwise known as Tim, the mayor's husband) trips over a corpse lying next to Aladdin's bloodstained magic lamp, it's time for Jodie and her partner, DCI Nathan Withers, to find the killer.

Was it the genie of the lamp or an overly harsh theatre critic? Or does someone in the Penstowan Players have a dark secret they will do anything to protect?"

I mean, this is ticking all the boxes for my holiday reading, murder, panto, AND Cornwall.

What is better than a Christmas murder? A Christmas murder and laughter. This book has both. What a fun and cozy read for the Christmas season ahead of us. Highly recommend this book to anyone who loves to read about murder at Christmas time.

I really enjoyed reading this book. It was interesting to read something about plays and actors, I don't remember the last time I read a novel which included that in the storyline.

The story flows really nicely. I enjoyed the connection between characters, mostly between mother, daughter and grandmother. The author gives these characters dept, e.g., when mentioning relationships, sex, contraception, menopause, etc. I think it's amazing to educate people in such a way and to also "lighten up" the book (aka giving it a break from the main action).

Jodie is a pretty lovable character, I could really relate to her. Alongside Nathan, they make the best couple (both when it comes to personal life, as well as in solving murders haha).

Overall, it's a solid four-star read. I don't think the ending is that extraordinary, but it's a great cozy mystery that kept me wanting to know more and more!

What a fun romp! This was my first Fiona Leitch novel in the Cornish murder mystery / Jodie Parker series and now I get the joy of flipping back to the start and reading all the ones I've missed! For fans of the whistable pearl books and midsomer murders, the story unfolds at during Christmas which, in the UK, means all the fixings: roastie potatoes, mince pies, and the panto (the local theatre production).

This book had a swift pace, a lovely number of suspects and back stories, and all neatly wrapped up in time for the plum pudding. Made me miss living in Glasgow! But, as a great second best option, I look forward to reading the rest of the series. Thanks to #NetGalley for the chance to read and review!

Thanks to the publishers and Netgalley for an advance copy of this book in exchange for a review.

This is the 9th in the series and I'd definitely recommend reading them in order.

It's Chirstmas time in Penstowan (oh yes it is) and it's time for the panto. Unfortunately someone comes to a sticky end. With lots of potential suspects will Nathan and his team (and obviously Jodie) find the murderer?

Loved this and it was like being back with some old friends.

I've read all the Cosy Cornish Murder books by Leitch. Even being the ninth it doesn't disappoint and is another brilliant read.. This is a series so should be read in order as Jodie's life and family play an important part.
She is now married to Nathan, the local DCI so gets involved when one of the actors is murdered halfway through the first performance of the Christmas panto. Although the stories are written to be amusing, they do touch on the sadness of the death of the victim. I do wish she didn't keep mentioning food as it makes me hungry though I might try the chocolate orange trifle recipe at the end of the book.
A thoroughly enjoyable read and I can't wait for the next one.
This is an honest review of a complementary copy.

Thanks to NetGalley for the opportunity to read 'The Cornish Christmas Pantomime Murder' by Fiona Leitch.

This was such a delightful read. I almost regret not waiting until Christmas to read it.

During the first performance of the Penstowan local amateur dramatics Christmas pantomime (Aladdin) a young woman is found murdered backstage. With family and friends in the cast, the investigation into her murder is bound to ruffle feathers as Jodie and her partner DCI Winters question alibis and question motives.

A cozy, festive read. A perfect stocking stuffer gift.

A Cornish Christmas Pantomime Murder
by Fiona Leitch, is the ninth book in the delightful Nosy Parker Mysteries series. And is rapidly becoming one of favourite cozy mystery series.
Our main cast of characters consists of:
• Former detective Jodie 'Nosey Parker
• Her teenage daughter Daisy
• Her utter hilarious mother Shirley
• And new partner (husband) Nathan, a Detective
Now, first of all, I love Christmas and books about Christmas are my guilty secret - especially books that include fab recipes!
Josie Parker is a former police detective, turned chef and now runs her own catering business. She has an incredible knack for finding her way into a murder investigation. Alby assisted by Daisy and Shirley - and of course, Nathan who must tread a very fine line as the actual detective leading the case.
This is a lighthearted tale with some genuine laugh out loud moments - often courtesy of Shirley and her 'speak as I find' approach.
Plenty of fun and laughter in a light-hearted read.

A very cozy, cozy crime.
Thankyou to NetGalley and HarperCollins UK, One More Chapter for the ARC.my review is given volantarily.
One of the stars of the local Christmas pantomime has been murdered, and Jodie can't resist assisting her husband, DCI Nathan Withers, in solving the case.
If you’re British and a fan of pantomimes, this book is a must-read. If you’re not British, get ready to dive into this uniquely British tradition. The book is highly relatable, packed with references to contemporary life in the UK—social, cultural, and political. It’s also rich in domestic details—plenty of them! the relationships are very realistic, particularly Jodie's with her mother and daughter.
This book is perfect for anyone seeking a cozy crime story deeply rooted in everyday contemporary life.

It is Christmas time in Penstowan and that means time for the community pantomime, aka Panto. Almost everyone in Jodie Parker's family is involved with the Panto somehow. She might only be doing the catering, but Daisy and her mum are part of the cast and crew, so it's all hands on deck for opening night. Just as the second act begins, a body is discovered backstage, so DCI Nathan Withers, Jodie's new husband is immediately in investigator mode, with Jodie as his informal consultant. Everyone in the cast and crew along with most of the audience are suspects and it is the week before Christmas! As the police investigate the crime, with Jodie's help, like it or not, they narrow the suspect list, but they also find themselves looking at a 40 year old cold case that might be related to this murder. Can they solve these cases before it's time for Christmas dinner. read on to find out!
Twisty plot with lots of possible suspects, even as the list is narrowed and while I did suspect the villains, it wasn't until late in the book and it was truly fun to see how it all played out.
I loved so many things about this book. First and foremost, the characters dish out just enough snark to keep me laughing and I found myself thinking of members of my own family as I read about Jodie and her family and friends. so much alike in so many ways! Penstowan calls out for a visit, preferably when the weather is a bit warmer, perhaps during beach season instead of Christmas, although I'd hate to miss the Panto!
My thanks to NetGalley and Kensington for the opportunity to read an early copy of this book in exchange for my honest thoughts.

Sassy dialogue and plot moving along at a good pace. I enjoyed reading it . It isn’t a 'cannot-put-it -down' novel for me. I was able to go off and do other things while reading it but sometimes that slower pace is what I need. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Wasn’t enjoying any of the characters and the tone was too cosy for me. So sadly I did not finish it

I really enjoy this cosy crime series. Jodie 'Nosey' Parker is back with Nathan and her family for more mysteries and murder to solve. Cornwall, Christmas and a pantomime, what's not to love.

This festive cozy mystery was a delightful seasonal escape filled with charm, quirky characters, and a healthy dose of small-town intrigue. Fiona Leitch’s writing shines with warmth and humor, and the Cornish setting creates the perfect backdrop for a Christmastime whodunnit.
The murder mystery itself was cleverly layered, and the pantomime theme added a fresh twist that kept things fun and lighthearted. I enjoyed the community feel of the story—the interactions between townsfolk made the world feel alive and bustling with personality.
That said, the pacing did lag in places, and at times the plot felt a little too drawn out. While the humor worked well overall, some parts leaned a bit heavily on quirky banter, slowing down the momentum of the mystery.
Still, this is a cozy read that perfectly balances holiday spirit with a good old-fashioned murder puzzle. If you enjoy small-town settings, amateur sleuthing, and a dash of holiday magic, this one will definitely make a nice addition to your winter TBR.

I received a free copy of, The Cornish Christmas Pantomime Murder, by Fiona Leitch, , from the publisher and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. The panto this Christmas in Penstowan, is Aladdin, which is not Christmasy at all. I liked this cozy Christmas mystery so much.

I love this series so I was happy to read the next instalment. I really enjoyed the story! It was exciting without having too much gory details. I followed the clues and tried to guess the culprit before they were revealed. I had my suspicions...
I love the characters in this series. I even feel as if they were my own friends and family members sometimes. It must be great to live in a small town like this with a supportive community.
Not being British I also found the author's notes about the Christmas panto very interesting. The short scene that is described in the story sounded hilarious. Maybe one day I will see a Christmas pantomime myself.
I was really sorry when the book ended. I had some really enjoyable time with the story and I can wholeheartedly recommend to everyone.

There’s something very satisfying about a murder mystery, one of a series, being published on Halloween. Though in the village of Penstowan, it’s Christmas already, as the local am dram group is putting on its annual panto. Jodie ‘Nosey’ Parker is on board to the catering, and thankfully, not appear on stage. However, let’s just say that the cast of Aladdin does not start as it means to go on… on opening night, one member is, well, dead. Jodie – a former police officer – and her partner, DCI Nathan Withers, must once again team up to find the culprit and ensure it’s as happy a festive time for everyone as is possible. While the primary characters are endearing, Fiona’s secondary characterisation offers another layer – we defy not to love Jodie’s mum, Shirley.