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Melanie Travis
A Furry Little Christmas
It’s the most wonderful time of the year in Connecticut, but Melanie Travis and her brood of Standard poodles finds surviving the holiday season deadlier than expected in these two cozy mystery holiday romps bundled together for your yuletide pleasure . . .
The perfect stocking stuffer for mystery lovers and fans of dog mysteries by David Rosenfelt and Spencer Quinn!
"The perfect introduction to the delightful Berenson, this volume brings together two previously published novellas—and five standard poodles!—set during Christmas in Connecticut." - firstCLUE
WAGGING THROUGH THE SNOW
With a demanding teaching job and five poodles scampering around the house, Melanie Travis barely has energy for the upcoming Christmas rush. When an unexpected business venture leads to a dead body, Melanie must run through a flurry of likely suspects and muzzle a dogged murderer in time—or she’ll be next on someone’s deadly list.
HERE COMES SANTA PAWS
As Melanie attempts to deck the halls in a house overrun by pampered Poodles, her event planner friend, Claire, is busy playing Santa for the wealthiest clientele on Connecticut’s Gold Coast. But when Claire’s stylish stint uncovers a dead body, Melanie and her nosy Aunt Peg dash into a dizzying investigation to rein in a sinister Kris Kringle before they’re the next ones on someone’s deadly wish list . . .
The perfect stocking stuffer for mystery lovers and fans of dog mysteries by David Rosenfelt and Spencer Quinn!
"The perfect introduction to the delightful Berenson, this volume brings together two previously published novellas—and five standard poodles!—set during Christmas in Connecticut." - firstCLUE
WAGGING THROUGH THE SNOW
With a demanding teaching job and five poodles scampering around the house, Melanie Travis barely has energy for the upcoming Christmas rush. When an unexpected business venture leads to a dead body, Melanie must run through a flurry of likely suspects and muzzle a dogged murderer in time—or she’ll be next on someone’s deadly list.
HERE COMES SANTA PAWS
As Melanie attempts to deck the halls in a house overrun by pampered Poodles, her event planner friend, Claire, is busy playing Santa for the wealthiest clientele on Connecticut’s Gold Coast. But when Claire’s stylish stint uncovers a dead body, Melanie and her nosy Aunt Peg dash into a dizzying investigation to rein in a sinister Kris Kringle before they’re the next ones on someone’s deadly wish list . . .
320 pages, Paperback
Published September 26, 2023
65 people are currently reading
135 people want to read
About the author
Laurien Berenson
58 books843 followersLaurien Berenson is the award-winning author of the long running Melanie Travis canine mystery series and the new Senior Sleuths series starring Peg Turnbull and Rose Donovan as a pair of seventyish sisters-in-law who are learning to put aside old grudges as they work together to solve mysteries. DIE ANOTHER DANE (#31 in the Melanie Travis series) is out now.
Laurien's work has appeared numerous magazines and the New York Times. She and her husband live on a farm in Kentucky, surrounded by horses and dogs.
Laurien's work has appeared numerous magazines and the New York Times. She and her husband live on a farm in Kentucky, surrounded by horses and dogs.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 49 reviews
September 10, 2023
I’ll be the first to admit I’m a sucker for any story with a dog. And who could resist the cover of this one? I’ve not read any of the prior Melanie Travis series. But it wasn’t a problem and these two novellas can easily be read as stand-alones.
Melanie is a math tutor at the local school, but she’s also the pet parent to five poodles and a mutt. In the first story, Melanie’s brother buys a Christmas tree farm at auction. When they go to see it, they discover a dead body on the property. The body is a homeless man and his death is initially believed to be accidental. The man was supposedly an alcoholic who had burned all his bridges. But it turns out there was no alcohol in his system when he died.
I struggle with crime mysteries where the “investigator” isn’t a professional. Why was Melanie so invested? Her time spent on this mission, given her full life, felt forced and questionable. But maybe I’m missing something from not having read the prior books. Berenson doesn’t spend a lot of time providing much depth to Melanie’s character (or anyone’s, to be honest).
In the second story, Claire’s friend finds her personal shopping client dead when she enters her house to deliver presents. Berenson sets up several silly plot premises to move the story forward. Again, Melanie deciding to investigate doesn’t make a lot of sense.
Comic relief in both stories is provided by her Aunt Peg who was the only character I really enjoyed. In the Author’s Note, Berenson indicates that Aunt Peg will be getting her own series. Now, that’s a series I would check out.
My thanks to Netgalley and Kensington Books for an advance copy of this book.
Melanie is a math tutor at the local school, but she’s also the pet parent to five poodles and a mutt. In the first story, Melanie’s brother buys a Christmas tree farm at auction. When they go to see it, they discover a dead body on the property. The body is a homeless man and his death is initially believed to be accidental. The man was supposedly an alcoholic who had burned all his bridges. But it turns out there was no alcohol in his system when he died.
I struggle with crime mysteries where the “investigator” isn’t a professional. Why was Melanie so invested? Her time spent on this mission, given her full life, felt forced and questionable. But maybe I’m missing something from not having read the prior books. Berenson doesn’t spend a lot of time providing much depth to Melanie’s character (or anyone’s, to be honest).
In the second story, Claire’s friend finds her personal shopping client dead when she enters her house to deliver presents. Berenson sets up several silly plot premises to move the story forward. Again, Melanie deciding to investigate doesn’t make a lot of sense.
Comic relief in both stories is provided by her Aunt Peg who was the only character I really enjoyed. In the Author’s Note, Berenson indicates that Aunt Peg will be getting her own series. Now, that’s a series I would check out.
My thanks to Netgalley and Kensington Books for an advance copy of this book.
September 10, 2023
I love Laurien Berenson books. These two stories are reprint from previous years and worth reading again and again. Her love of family and dogs shows though the stories.
December 18, 2023
I enjoy these characters. The mystery kept me guessing and Faith is such a great dog. I look forward to more in the series.
Thank you to the author, publisher and NetGalley for my eARC in exchange for an honest review.
Thank you to the author, publisher and NetGalley for my eARC in exchange for an honest review.
August 26, 2023
A Furry Little Christmas is my first time to this series and author and I highly enjoyed this book. What happens when Melanie's brother and her ex buy a Christmas tree farm ? Let just say things get complicated for them when they discover the former resident dead. Then the second part of the book Melanie's friend Claire discovers one of her clients dead. Not soon after Claire vanishes. What is really going on with these mysteries? If you like dog's or cozy mysteries in general then I highly suggest you read this one. Highly recommend. Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC book of this.
September 21, 2023
A Furry Little Christmas bundles two previously published shorter novels by Laurien Berenson into one book. Each features dog lover Melanie Travis who solves crimes, with some help from her outspoken Aunt Peg. Dog lovers and fans of this series will enjoy both stories.
The first story, Wagging through the Snow, is about a murder of a homeless man which takes place on a Christmas tree farm recently purchased by her brother and her ex-husband. The local police brush it off as an unfortunate accident, so Melanie decides to do some sleuthing of her own to get justice for Pete.
The second story is Here Comes Santa Paws, one that I had already read. Aunt Peg is shocked to find newborn puppies left in a stocking she had used to decorate her mailbox. While Peg deals with the puppies, Melanie puts her Christmas preparations on hold to investigate a murder after receiving an urgent call from a friend.
I received an advance copy of this ebook at no cost from NetGalley and Kensington Books. My review is voluntary and unbiased.
The first story, Wagging through the Snow, is about a murder of a homeless man which takes place on a Christmas tree farm recently purchased by her brother and her ex-husband. The local police brush it off as an unfortunate accident, so Melanie decides to do some sleuthing of her own to get justice for Pete.
The second story is Here Comes Santa Paws, one that I had already read. Aunt Peg is shocked to find newborn puppies left in a stocking she had used to decorate her mailbox. While Peg deals with the puppies, Melanie puts her Christmas preparations on hold to investigate a murder after receiving an urgent call from a friend.
I received an advance copy of this ebook at no cost from NetGalley and Kensington Books. My review is voluntary and unbiased.
September 16, 2023
"As Melanie attempts to deck the halls in a house overrun by pampered Poodles, her event planner friend, Claire, is busy playing Santa for the wealthiest clientele on Connecticut’s Gold Coast. But when Claire’s stylish stint uncovers a dead body, Melanie and her nosy Aunt Peg dash into a dizzying investigation to rein in a sinister Kris Kringle before they’re the next ones on someone’s deadly wish list "
A jealous wife leads to murder and mayhem.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher and NetGalley. This in no way affects my opinion of this book which I read and reviewed voluntarily.. .
A jealous wife leads to murder and mayhem.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher and NetGalley. This in no way affects my opinion of this book which I read and reviewed voluntarily.. .
August 28, 2023
This adorable cover drew my attention and I didn’t read the blurb to know I was getting two books in one. I am not familiar with this cozy mystery series featuring Melanie Travis. She has a blended family with two sons and co-parents well with her ex and his wife. She has four full sized poodles and a nose for solving murders. This book includes two holiday themed mysteries that were previously published.
Wagging through the Snow (#21, published Sept 2017). This involves a body of a homeless man found on a tree farm that Melanie’s brother spontaneously buys as an investment. The police aren’t that interested assuming he was drunk but Melanie investigates his history and visits people from the town where he grew up.
Here Come Santa Paws (#24, published Sept 2019). Melanie gets a frantic phone call from her friend Claire (her ex-husbands wife). She has found a dead body when dropping off some gifts for a side gig she has being a personal shopper for the holidays.
Melanie is pretty fearless as she talks to people and tries to figure out who perpetrated the crimes. She is helped by her Aunt Peg who evidently gets her own mystery book as there is a couple bonus chapters included with this book. I had no problem jumping into this series for these small mysteries. There are well plotted and include lots of cute dogs. I didn’t love it enough to seek out the other 29 and counting books. But if you like cozy mysteries these are quick and entertaining.
Thank you to NetGalley and Kensington Books for the ARC and I am leaving a voluntary review.
Wagging through the Snow (#21, published Sept 2017). This involves a body of a homeless man found on a tree farm that Melanie’s brother spontaneously buys as an investment. The police aren’t that interested assuming he was drunk but Melanie investigates his history and visits people from the town where he grew up.
Here Come Santa Paws (#24, published Sept 2019). Melanie gets a frantic phone call from her friend Claire (her ex-husbands wife). She has found a dead body when dropping off some gifts for a side gig she has being a personal shopper for the holidays.
Melanie is pretty fearless as she talks to people and tries to figure out who perpetrated the crimes. She is helped by her Aunt Peg who evidently gets her own mystery book as there is a couple bonus chapters included with this book. I had no problem jumping into this series for these small mysteries. There are well plotted and include lots of cute dogs. I didn’t love it enough to seek out the other 29 and counting books. But if you like cozy mysteries these are quick and entertaining.
Thank you to NetGalley and Kensington Books for the ARC and I am leaving a voluntary review.
September 26, 2023
A couple of enjoyable Christmas populated by a protagonist we all know well and plenty of puppies. What more could you want?
June 6, 2023
I have loved Laurien Berenson's books ever since I found two in my local library (they can be rather difficult to get hold of in Australia). To find these two little beauties on Netgalley and be approved to read them has just been an absolute joy, the language, the dogs, the characters, the settings being one year apart was just perfect. In Wagging Through the Snow, the murderer was not who I expected it to be, and goes to show that not everything is as it seems. Here Comes Santa Paws, who can resist those puppies (I would have had all three in a heartbeat) and to have it inspired by a true story is fabulous. To top it all off, we get two chapters for Aunt Peg's book (I hope this will become a series as well) in these two chapters the characters seem well rounded, the language suits Aunt Peg and where else would be a better start than a dog show? I hope I get the opportunity to read the full version of Peg and Rose Solve a Murder as well. I'm trying to get the full series of Melanie Travis just to be able to start at the beginning of the series. Thank you so much to #Laurien Berenson for writing such fantastic books, thank you to #Kensington Books and #Netgalley for giving me the opportunity to read Laurien Berenson's books when I don't have a lot of a social media presence as well.
June 17, 2023
Two previously published novellas brought together for the first time.
In “Wagging Through the Snow” first published in 2017, Melanie’s brother purchases a wreck of Christmas tree farm. While touring the place Melanie, Aunt Peg hear a whimpering noise. As they follow the sound out into the trees they find a dead man. First discounted as the sad accidental death of a homeless alcoholic, Melanie takes time out of her busy holiday schedule to search for the man’s family and discover what really happened to him.
In “Here Comes Santa Paws” first published in 2019, Melanie is called by her friend Claire to come and help her. Upon arriving, she discovers that Claire has found the dead body of one of her clients. Of course, Melanie can’t let Claire be railroaded for the murder and investigates with help from Aunt Peg.
Both stories are short, entertaining and the mysteries are well done. The characters and always evolving and the first novella shows a big step in Frank’s character. We learn more about Claire in the second novella as well. I read for character development and enjoyed both stories.
In “Wagging Through the Snow” first published in 2017, Melanie’s brother purchases a wreck of Christmas tree farm. While touring the place Melanie, Aunt Peg hear a whimpering noise. As they follow the sound out into the trees they find a dead man. First discounted as the sad accidental death of a homeless alcoholic, Melanie takes time out of her busy holiday schedule to search for the man’s family and discover what really happened to him.
In “Here Comes Santa Paws” first published in 2019, Melanie is called by her friend Claire to come and help her. Upon arriving, she discovers that Claire has found the dead body of one of her clients. Of course, Melanie can’t let Claire be railroaded for the murder and investigates with help from Aunt Peg.
Both stories are short, entertaining and the mysteries are well done. The characters and always evolving and the first novella shows a big step in Frank’s character. We learn more about Claire in the second novella as well. I read for character development and enjoyed both stories.
July 2, 2023
I don't remember reading anything from Laurien Berenson before and now I wonder why. This book was really good and that mad it hard to put down.
Wagging through the Snow was the first book in this set and I loved Melanie but I also loved Aunt Peg, she seemed feisty and seemed like a woman who always speaks her mind. And her love for dogs made her priceless. She knew her breeds of dogs well and you could tell she was an animal lover.
I loved how they took Pete's accident death and realized things seemed a little off. Check out the book I think you will enjoy it too
Wagging through the Snow was the first book in this set and I loved Melanie but I also loved Aunt Peg, she seemed feisty and seemed like a woman who always speaks her mind. And her love for dogs made her priceless. She knew her breeds of dogs well and you could tell she was an animal lover.
I loved how they took Pete's accident death and realized things seemed a little off. Check out the book I think you will enjoy it too
October 11, 2023
I read Here Comes Santa Paws previously; it is a very well-written story. Ms. Berenson writes delightful cozies that make readers happy. The descriptions of Melanie’s home, family, friends, and of course, her poodles all combine to give you a sense of home, comfort, and joy.
I had not read Wagging Through the Snow and found it to be equally delightful, well-written, and containing all the elements that make for a wonderful, cozy read. I love the Christmas Tree farm. Who would ever buy such a thing in the age of fake trees and online shopping? Melanie and her family, that’s who! She is ready to go even though she feels it is a crazy idea; she nevertheless backs the decision to purchase the farm and bring it back to the fun, exciting place she remembered from childhood. Finding a man dead on the farm just seems to be power for the course. Finding this killer has tantalizing consequences for more people than you would think. This is a feel-good story that just happens to have a murder in the middle of it, but that doesn’t stop readers from enjoying this story from start to finish.
I had not read Wagging Through the Snow and found it to be equally delightful, well-written, and containing all the elements that make for a wonderful, cozy read. I love the Christmas Tree farm. Who would ever buy such a thing in the age of fake trees and online shopping? Melanie and her family, that’s who! She is ready to go even though she feels it is a crazy idea; she nevertheless backs the decision to purchase the farm and bring it back to the fun, exciting place she remembered from childhood. Finding a man dead on the farm just seems to be power for the course. Finding this killer has tantalizing consequences for more people than you would think. This is a feel-good story that just happens to have a murder in the middle of it, but that doesn’t stop readers from enjoying this story from start to finish.
September 27, 2023
This was actually a combination of two novellas which were delightful! I adore Melanie Travis and her family … including the four-legged ones! Her youngest son, Kevin, is a joy and I find myself smiling and chuckling whenever he appears in the story. Even Aunt Peg and her crotchety overbearing ways will have you rolling your eyes and wondering how Melanie keeps her cool.
Wagging Through the Snow
This murder mystery has you traveling along with Melanie as she worked to try to figure out who the man found in the forest is. The characters are well developed and the side story of her brother buying and starting a Christmas tree farm just added to the entertainment.
Here Comes Santa Paws
This novella has a great murder mystery that pulls in Melanie’s ex-husband’s new wife. Luckily they have a great relationship and she knows that she can count on Melanie to come to her aid.
The mysteries have you flipping through the pages to see who is guilty of murder. And with both of these books, you will be surprised! Lots of twists and turns that has you guessing until the end. I can’t wait for the next adventure with Melanie and her family. It will definitely be entertaining.
These short stories are set a year apart … both during the Christmas season and will be delightful reads during the holidays as you curl up by the fireplace.
Thank you to NetGalley and Kensington Cozies for my advanced review copy. All opinions and thoughts are my own.
For more reviews, please visit my blog at: https://www.msladybugsbookreviews.com/. Over 1000 reviews posted!
Wagging Through the Snow
This murder mystery has you traveling along with Melanie as she worked to try to figure out who the man found in the forest is. The characters are well developed and the side story of her brother buying and starting a Christmas tree farm just added to the entertainment.
Here Comes Santa Paws
This novella has a great murder mystery that pulls in Melanie’s ex-husband’s new wife. Luckily they have a great relationship and she knows that she can count on Melanie to come to her aid.
The mysteries have you flipping through the pages to see who is guilty of murder. And with both of these books, you will be surprised! Lots of twists and turns that has you guessing until the end. I can’t wait for the next adventure with Melanie and her family. It will definitely be entertaining.
These short stories are set a year apart … both during the Christmas season and will be delightful reads during the holidays as you curl up by the fireplace.
Thank you to NetGalley and Kensington Cozies for my advanced review copy. All opinions and thoughts are my own.
For more reviews, please visit my blog at: https://www.msladybugsbookreviews.com/. Over 1000 reviews posted!
September 27, 2023
I adore Laurien Berenson’s cozy mystery series and this Christmas themed twofer is a real gift! Melanie and Aunt Peg are a great combination. Add in the pups and mystery and you have al little slice of cozy heaven. I’m so glad to see this book come out, it’ll be a great cozy loving friends.
September 14, 2023
A Furry Little Christmas
Laurien Berenson
September 26, 2023
In Berensonś's latest book she gives us two of her past holiday stories. Wagging Through the Snow features Melanie and her family off on holiday vacation. Her brother, Frank has recently purchased a Christmas tree farm. When he and his partner, Bob, Melanieś ex-husband, take her and the family on their first tour they find a large acreage of trees and a very old, broken down office and customer service building. It will need a lot of work but Frank maintains that it can be brought up to code, ready for the upcoming Christmas tree buying season. What they didn´t predict was a lonerś body being found amongst the trees.
The second selection is Here Comes Santa Paws. Aunt Peg has put a large socking attached to her mail post. It is colorful and she thinks itś a perfect seasonal addition. However not long after, she goes out front to a commotion coming from the stocking. Inside someone has put 3 tiny Australian Shepherd puppies. They were adorable but way too small to be taken away from their mother. Of course as the story goes on another crisis is discovered to bring suspense into her delightful tales.
A Furry LIttle Christmas will be published by Kensington Publishing on September 26, 2023. I was able to read and review Laurien Berensonś latest publication via NetGalley. Each new book is full of humorous tales of poodles, Kevin, Scott and Melanieś youngest preschooler, and of course Aunt Peg. I have enjoyed them all. They are entertaining and fun to read. Do enjoy!
Laurien Berenson
September 26, 2023
In Berensonś's latest book she gives us two of her past holiday stories. Wagging Through the Snow features Melanie and her family off on holiday vacation. Her brother, Frank has recently purchased a Christmas tree farm. When he and his partner, Bob, Melanieś ex-husband, take her and the family on their first tour they find a large acreage of trees and a very old, broken down office and customer service building. It will need a lot of work but Frank maintains that it can be brought up to code, ready for the upcoming Christmas tree buying season. What they didn´t predict was a lonerś body being found amongst the trees.
The second selection is Here Comes Santa Paws. Aunt Peg has put a large socking attached to her mail post. It is colorful and she thinks itś a perfect seasonal addition. However not long after, she goes out front to a commotion coming from the stocking. Inside someone has put 3 tiny Australian Shepherd puppies. They were adorable but way too small to be taken away from their mother. Of course as the story goes on another crisis is discovered to bring suspense into her delightful tales.
A Furry LIttle Christmas will be published by Kensington Publishing on September 26, 2023. I was able to read and review Laurien Berensonś latest publication via NetGalley. Each new book is full of humorous tales of poodles, Kevin, Scott and Melanieś youngest preschooler, and of course Aunt Peg. I have enjoyed them all. They are entertaining and fun to read. Do enjoy!
August 13, 2023
A Furry Little Christmas by Laurien Berenson is a re-release of two previous holiday themed Melanie Travis mysteries, Wagging through the Snow and Here Comes Santa Paws. Although if you are like me, you may have snapped up the book before realizing that it wasn’t a new story. All that said, reading this book was an enjoyable visit down Melanie’s memory lane. Laurien Berenson does not disappoint. (I reviewed an advance reader copy and all opinions are my own.) So if you want an enjoyable holiday read, don’t hesitate to pick up this book.
October 3, 2023
I really enjoyed these short, cozy mysteries. I liked how fast they went and I am always a sucker for dogs. One of the main things I liked about them, besides the dogs, was how it had a blended family and how much they worked together. It is nice to see a story that does not have a co-parenting situation that is hostile. This would be a wonderful book to read during the holidays especially for someone that wants a good, cozy mystery.
August 15, 2024
A Furry Little Christmas by Laurien Berenson is an adorable two-novella collection with just the right amount of Christmas, darling doggies and sleuthing. I enjoyed the small town setting and the inquisitive heroin and her aunt. No doubt I will look for more entertaining reading from Ms. Berenson in the future. Thank you to NetGalley, Ms. Berenson and Kensington Books for the opportunity to review this gem!
July 23, 2023
I discovered Laurien Berenson last year---I am catching up on her series now These cozies are guaranteed to please, whether or not you are a dog lover. In this book, two of her holiday short stories are a double dip of Christmas any time of year. I can't get enough of feel good holiday reads!
A Christmas tree farm is the setting in the first story, Wagging Through the Snow. When a dead body is discovered on her brother's new farm, Melanie jumps in to help him find the killer.
The second story, Here Comes Santa Paws, finds Claire with a dead customer and then a disappearance. Melanie and Aunt Peg join forces to get to the bottom of this one.
It is difficult to choose a favorite because I enjoyed both so much! Thank you #NetGalley, #KensingtonCozies for an advanced reader's copy that I received on my request. All opinions and thoughts are my own. #AFurryLittleChristmas #KensingtonCozies
A Christmas tree farm is the setting in the first story, Wagging Through the Snow. When a dead body is discovered on her brother's new farm, Melanie jumps in to help him find the killer.
The second story, Here Comes Santa Paws, finds Claire with a dead customer and then a disappearance. Melanie and Aunt Peg join forces to get to the bottom of this one.
It is difficult to choose a favorite because I enjoyed both so much! Thank you #NetGalley, #KensingtonCozies for an advanced reader's copy that I received on my request. All opinions and thoughts are my own. #AFurryLittleChristmas #KensingtonCozies
December 1, 2023
A Furry Little Christmas written by Laurien Berenson is a Christmas mystery, don't let that gorgeous cover fool you. I fell in love with that cute little puppy, ugh he just warmed my heart so much. As many of you don't know by now, I'M IN LOVE WITH DOGS!!!!!! So, seeing this cover literally made me kick my feet up in the air. This book is part of a series but can be read as a standalone, it's just two novellas put into one book. Christmas ornaments, candy canes, a beautiful puppy, what's not to love? I LOVED EVERY SINGLE MINUTE OF THIS BOOK!!!!!! If you love being a detective and finding out the clues of who killed who, then don't let this book slip through your fingers. At times, I felt like I knew who did what, but with the twists and turns, I was completely shocked. I have never read a book by Laurien Berenson before, but holy moly, after enjoying this one, I won't hesitate to pick up another one of her books. I loved this book, but I felt like it was too short, I just wanted more. It's safe to say I have an obsession with Christmas mysteries now, I feel like I shouldn't love a Christmas book where people die, but man I just enjoyed this book a little too much and I do feel guilty. Please do yourself a huge favor and read this book immediately during this holiday season.
THANK YOU TO NETGALLEY AND KENSINGTON BOOKS FOR AN ARC OF THIS BOOK IN EXCHANGE FOR AN HONEST REVIEW!!!!!!!
Wagging Through The Snow- Melanie Travis has a demanding teaching job and five poodles scampering around her house. FIVE POODLES? OKAY, I MIGHT BE A LITTLE JEALOUS. With five scampering poodles, a demanding teaching job, a family to take care of, Melanie Travis barely has any energy for the upcoming Christmas rush. Melanie has a blended family, she has a son with her now husband, and a son from her previous marriage. Melanie's ex-husband and her brother run a coffee shop together, but they are now looking for a bigger place. Frankie, Melanie's brother found a new place, but instead of telling his business partner, he just buys this new building. When Melanie and her family go to tour this new building, Melanie's sons hear weird noises, Melanie and her aunt go and check it out. It's a dying man and his puppy. Why would anyone want to kill a man who is struggling with an alcohol addiction? This part truly broke my heart, it's so sad that people have to kill others because of their addiction.
Here Comes Santa Paws- Melanie Travis attempts to deck the halls in a house overrun by five scampered poodles, her event planner best friend, Claire is busy playing Santa for the wealthiest clientele on Connecticut's Gold Coast. Claire has clients where she plays Santa for them and buys their Christmas gifts, these clients give Claire a list of everything they want and she goes and buys these gifts for her clients. When Claire returns to this clients house, Claire stumbles upon her dead body. At this point it may seem like Claire is the main suspect since she was the only there, but that is until the police start their investigation. Claire decides to call her best friend Melanie, since Melanie loves uncovering clues and finding the main suspect. Instead of waiting on the police to do their investigation, Melanie and her nosy aunt Peg decide to start a dizzying investigation of their own. Aunt Peg had such a smart mouth, I loved her so much. But, let me just say Melanie and Aunt Peg had the best noses to sniff out clues and find the real murderers.
THANK YOU TO NETGALLEY AND KENSINGTON BOOKS FOR AN ARC OF THIS BOOK IN EXCHANGE FOR AN HONEST REVIEW!!!!!!!
Wagging Through The Snow- Melanie Travis has a demanding teaching job and five poodles scampering around her house. FIVE POODLES? OKAY, I MIGHT BE A LITTLE JEALOUS. With five scampering poodles, a demanding teaching job, a family to take care of, Melanie Travis barely has any energy for the upcoming Christmas rush. Melanie has a blended family, she has a son with her now husband, and a son from her previous marriage. Melanie's ex-husband and her brother run a coffee shop together, but they are now looking for a bigger place. Frankie, Melanie's brother found a new place, but instead of telling his business partner, he just buys this new building. When Melanie and her family go to tour this new building, Melanie's sons hear weird noises, Melanie and her aunt go and check it out. It's a dying man and his puppy. Why would anyone want to kill a man who is struggling with an alcohol addiction? This part truly broke my heart, it's so sad that people have to kill others because of their addiction.
Here Comes Santa Paws- Melanie Travis attempts to deck the halls in a house overrun by five scampered poodles, her event planner best friend, Claire is busy playing Santa for the wealthiest clientele on Connecticut's Gold Coast. Claire has clients where she plays Santa for them and buys their Christmas gifts, these clients give Claire a list of everything they want and she goes and buys these gifts for her clients. When Claire returns to this clients house, Claire stumbles upon her dead body. At this point it may seem like Claire is the main suspect since she was the only there, but that is until the police start their investigation. Claire decides to call her best friend Melanie, since Melanie loves uncovering clues and finding the main suspect. Instead of waiting on the police to do their investigation, Melanie and her nosy aunt Peg decide to start a dizzying investigation of their own. Aunt Peg had such a smart mouth, I loved her so much. But, let me just say Melanie and Aunt Peg had the best noses to sniff out clues and find the real murderers.
July 16, 2023
I love Christmas books anytime, especially Christmas books with a big helping of dogs. This dog mystery offers up two novellas from Laurien Berenson, one of my go-to authors, so it was a win-win-win for me.
The stories are set a year apart, focusing on the weeks leading up to Christmas. In the first, "Wagging Through the Snow", Melanie's brother Frank, routinely a thorn in her side but loved, buys unseen a Christmas tree farm. As if that isn't bad enough, especially since he didn't do it with his partner's knowledge, a dead body is found in the trees. What leads them into the deeper part of the tree farm? A strange whimpering sound. Bet you can guess what they find. Who was the dead man and why was he there? Will Melanie be able to find time between herding kids and dogs and shopping and decorating her own home to investigate? Will it get her in trouble?
The second story, "Here Comes Santa Paws", takes place a year later. In this case, three very young Australian Shepherds are dumped in an oversized stocking hung at the end of Aunt Peg's driveway. Melanie is visiting to cuddle puppies when Claire, her ex-husband's current wife, calls, pleading for help. Seems she has stumbled over a body. Who is it? Why are there no real records of the victim's past? Why is the gatehouse she's living in in such poor repair?
Who... oh, enough teasers. Both stories are short, easy reads with strong characters and, yes, lots of dogs. I've increasingly become a fan of character driven books and the characters here are fully fleshed out, even the dogs, and you'll chuckle as you observe the often chaotic scenes at Melanie's home, not to mention her not so adept efforts to evade the strength of will that seems to radiate from Aunt Peg. In my mind, although Melanie is doing the legwork and is the one ultimately in danger, Aunt Peg simply dominates the tale. Needless to say, I'm fully enjoying the new series where Aunt Peg and her sister-in-law Rose are the sleuths, not Melanie, so it was fun to watch the action. Thanks #NetGalley and #KensingtonBooks - #KensingtonCozies for inviting me along to cuddle with the puppies and watch Melanie and Aunt Peg in action. This series is one of my favorites!
The stories are set a year apart, focusing on the weeks leading up to Christmas. In the first, "Wagging Through the Snow", Melanie's brother Frank, routinely a thorn in her side but loved, buys unseen a Christmas tree farm. As if that isn't bad enough, especially since he didn't do it with his partner's knowledge, a dead body is found in the trees. What leads them into the deeper part of the tree farm? A strange whimpering sound. Bet you can guess what they find. Who was the dead man and why was he there? Will Melanie be able to find time between herding kids and dogs and shopping and decorating her own home to investigate? Will it get her in trouble?
The second story, "Here Comes Santa Paws", takes place a year later. In this case, three very young Australian Shepherds are dumped in an oversized stocking hung at the end of Aunt Peg's driveway. Melanie is visiting to cuddle puppies when Claire, her ex-husband's current wife, calls, pleading for help. Seems she has stumbled over a body. Who is it? Why are there no real records of the victim's past? Why is the gatehouse she's living in in such poor repair?
Who... oh, enough teasers. Both stories are short, easy reads with strong characters and, yes, lots of dogs. I've increasingly become a fan of character driven books and the characters here are fully fleshed out, even the dogs, and you'll chuckle as you observe the often chaotic scenes at Melanie's home, not to mention her not so adept efforts to evade the strength of will that seems to radiate from Aunt Peg. In my mind, although Melanie is doing the legwork and is the one ultimately in danger, Aunt Peg simply dominates the tale. Needless to say, I'm fully enjoying the new series where Aunt Peg and her sister-in-law Rose are the sleuths, not Melanie, so it was fun to watch the action. Thanks #NetGalley and #KensingtonBooks - #KensingtonCozies for inviting me along to cuddle with the puppies and watch Melanie and Aunt Peg in action. This series is one of my favorites!
February 24, 2025
Laurien Berenson’s A Furry Little Christmas is basically the festive cozy-mystery equivalent of an overloaded holiday dessert platter: sweet, indulgent, and full of surprises that might occasionally be murder-related. This charming pair of Christmas novellas sees our beloved sleuth Melanie Travis juggling holiday chaos, suspiciously festive murders, and her delightful circus of Standard Poodles—because nothing says "Merry Christmas" like canine shenanigans and casual sleuthing!
In Wagging Through the Snow, Melanie's holiday goes from festive cheer to full-on crime-solving mode faster than you can say "ho ho homicide." Launching a Christmas-tree-delivery business seems harmless enough until a body shows up in the snow (cue dramatic gasp!). While the mystery isn’t exactly Sherlock-level complex, Melanie’s witty banter and Aunt Peg’s salty commentary keep things deliciously entertaining. Plus, five poodles doing holiday deliveries? That’s Hallmark-level adorable.
Here Comes Santa Paws doubles down on festive charm as Melanie reluctantly investigates yet another untimely death at a Christmas event, thanks largely to her friend Claire’s knack for landing them in merry trouble. The best part is watching Melanie juggle decorating disasters, poodle antics, and Aunt Peg's bluntly hilarious wisdom—though the culprit might be obvious faster than you unwrap an ugly sweater on Christmas morning.
Landing a jolly 4.5 out of 5 stars, A Furry Little Christmas is the perfect literary treat for anyone craving cozy holiday cheer with a dash of murder and a generous helping of dog fluff. Predictability aside, Berenson’s snappy humor and loveable characters make these mysteries genuinely fun. Pour a festive drink, ignore your own holiday to-do list, and settle in—this delightful read might just become your new Christmas tradition.
In Wagging Through the Snow, Melanie's holiday goes from festive cheer to full-on crime-solving mode faster than you can say "ho ho homicide." Launching a Christmas-tree-delivery business seems harmless enough until a body shows up in the snow (cue dramatic gasp!). While the mystery isn’t exactly Sherlock-level complex, Melanie’s witty banter and Aunt Peg’s salty commentary keep things deliciously entertaining. Plus, five poodles doing holiday deliveries? That’s Hallmark-level adorable.
Here Comes Santa Paws doubles down on festive charm as Melanie reluctantly investigates yet another untimely death at a Christmas event, thanks largely to her friend Claire’s knack for landing them in merry trouble. The best part is watching Melanie juggle decorating disasters, poodle antics, and Aunt Peg's bluntly hilarious wisdom—though the culprit might be obvious faster than you unwrap an ugly sweater on Christmas morning.
Landing a jolly 4.5 out of 5 stars, A Furry Little Christmas is the perfect literary treat for anyone craving cozy holiday cheer with a dash of murder and a generous helping of dog fluff. Predictability aside, Berenson’s snappy humor and loveable characters make these mysteries genuinely fun. Pour a festive drink, ignore your own holiday to-do list, and settle in—this delightful read might just become your new Christmas tradition.
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November 29, 2023Originally posted on my blog Nonstop Reader.
A Furry Little Christmas is a set of two holiday-themed novella-length mysteries featuring canines galore (and Melanie Travis & co.) by Larien Berenson. Released 26th Sept 2023 by Kensington, it's 320 pages and is available in paperback and ebook formats. It's worth noting that the ebook format has a handy interactive table of contents as well as interactive links and references throughout.
These are both fully developed novellas and delightfully cozy reads. As always, the author has well developed characters and scene driven plots with well devised mysteries. The denouement and resolution are satisfying in both cases. Both stories are easily read in one sitting (each) and will make a nice interlude and relaxation from holiday stresses.
Both of the stories were previously published in 2017 and 2019 respectively, but this is a new re-format and re-release from the publisher. The book also includes a teaser chapter from the author's tie-in series featuring Melanie's Aunts Peg & Rose, some background info and author's notes which were fun to read.
Four stars. Likely higher for fans of the author. Very well written and worth a look for fans of Donna Andrews, Nancy Atherton, and Laurie Cass to name a few.
Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.
A Furry Little Christmas is a set of two holiday-themed novella-length mysteries featuring canines galore (and Melanie Travis & co.) by Larien Berenson. Released 26th Sept 2023 by Kensington, it's 320 pages and is available in paperback and ebook formats. It's worth noting that the ebook format has a handy interactive table of contents as well as interactive links and references throughout.
These are both fully developed novellas and delightfully cozy reads. As always, the author has well developed characters and scene driven plots with well devised mysteries. The denouement and resolution are satisfying in both cases. Both stories are easily read in one sitting (each) and will make a nice interlude and relaxation from holiday stresses.
Both of the stories were previously published in 2017 and 2019 respectively, but this is a new re-format and re-release from the publisher. The book also includes a teaser chapter from the author's tie-in series featuring Melanie's Aunts Peg & Rose, some background info and author's notes which were fun to read.
Four stars. Likely higher for fans of the author. Very well written and worth a look for fans of Donna Andrews, Nancy Atherton, and Laurie Cass to name a few.
Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.
April 9, 2023
I've been a huge fan of the Melanie Travis series since I first started reading it several years ago. These shorter Christmas novels are a great addition to the series, quick reads that'll keep you up late at night to read just one more chapter (and then maybe one more).
Wagging Through the Snow
Of the two stories, this one was my favorite. Melanie's brother and her ex buy an old Christmas tree farm but things get complicated when they discover the former resident dead. I've never actually been to a real Christmas tree farm but I love tree farm settings in novels.
Here Comes Santa Paws
Melanie's friend Claire finds one of her customers dead and then Claire vanishes. There are so many questions, why was the customer there? Who was she really? And where did Claire run off to and why did she feel the need to leave? I loved the story but I was a bit disappointed with the length. I think there was a lot more story to be told and I felt like it didn't get developed like it could have. It was still a really good story but it could have been even better.
If you're a fan of cozies or of Poodles this series is a must read!
Thank you to the author, publisher, and to NetGalley for providing me with an ARC.
Wagging Through the Snow
Of the two stories, this one was my favorite. Melanie's brother and her ex buy an old Christmas tree farm but things get complicated when they discover the former resident dead. I've never actually been to a real Christmas tree farm but I love tree farm settings in novels.
Here Comes Santa Paws
Melanie's friend Claire finds one of her customers dead and then Claire vanishes. There are so many questions, why was the customer there? Who was she really? And where did Claire run off to and why did she feel the need to leave? I loved the story but I was a bit disappointed with the length. I think there was a lot more story to be told and I felt like it didn't get developed like it could have. It was still a really good story but it could have been even better.
If you're a fan of cozies or of Poodles this series is a must read!
Thank you to the author, publisher, and to NetGalley for providing me with an ARC.
October 5, 2023
A Furry Little Christmas by Laurien Berenson contains Wagging through the Snow and Here Comes Santa Paws. These are two previously published A Melanie Travis Mystery Holiday Novellas. I like the author’s writing style. It is friendly and engaging which makes her stories easy to read. The characters are developed and relatable. Melanie’s relatives are certainly entertaining (her brother, Frank is a piece of work and Aunt Peg is a force of nature). Of course, you can always count on Melanie’s youngest son, Kevin, to provide some laugh out loud moments as well as the brood of dogs (especially Bud). I like the silent communication that transpires between Melanie and Faith. The mysteries are fun and suit the length of the story. There are clues to help readers solve the whodunits before the reveal. The reveal in Wagging through the Snow is suspenseful. I loved the heartwarming ending of that tale. I do not know how Melanie is going to get everything done before Christmas in Here Comes Santa Paws. Adding an investigation into the mix does not help. Of course, Melanie does have Aunt Peg to help her. I loved it when Sam asked if he should gather bail money when Melanie leaves the house on a dubious mission. Sam is the perfect husband for Melanie. I have read both tales previously, but I enjoyed reading them again. They are lighthearted and entertaining (I laughed often while reading them). I look forward to Melanie’s next adventure. A Furry Little Christmas contains two cozy Christmas tales with an impulse purchase, tree trimming, a persistent Aunt Peg, precious puppies, a concerned Claire, an extended to do list, family fun, and a happy holiday.
November 28, 2023
Princess Fuzzypants here: I always know I will enjoy the adventures that Melanie and her aunt Peg and their respective poodles encounter. This book gives us two for one, both with a Christmas theme set one year apart. In the first, Melanie’s brother impulsively buys a Christmas tree farm and it is going to be all family hands on deck just to get the place ready for customers. They most certainly do not need to find a body in the woods. They rescue a sweet little dog but their good deeds do not stop there. They uncover the sad tale of the deceased who has wronged many people in his life. Only one of them, however, has been hurt enough to kill him.
In the second, Melanie is called by a frantic Claire who has discovered a body. The dead woman has a complicated and sad life which is a mystery to almost all who knew her. She was not the nicest of people but there is one person who feels so aggrieved that they murder her. Melanie and Peg get involved to save Claire at first but get sucked in by the mystery. In both stories they are confronted by the killer but manage to snoop another day.
Four purrs and two paws up.
In the second, Melanie is called by a frantic Claire who has discovered a body. The dead woman has a complicated and sad life which is a mystery to almost all who knew her. She was not the nicest of people but there is one person who feels so aggrieved that they murder her. Melanie and Peg get involved to save Claire at first but get sucked in by the mystery. In both stories they are confronted by the killer but manage to snoop another day.
Four purrs and two paws up.
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January 22, 2024Just in time for the holidays—and the perfect stocking stuffer for the mystery lover in your life—two Melanie Travis mysteries, WAGGING THROUGH THE SNOW and HERE COMES SANTA PAWS, are collected in one trade paperback volume! It will also appeal to fans of dog mysteries written by David Rosenfelt and Spencer Quinn.WAGGING THROUGH THE SNOW With a demanding teaching job and five poodles scampering around the house, Melanie Travis barely has energy for the upcoming Christmas rush. When an unexpected business venture leads to a dead body, Melanie must run through a flurry of likely suspects and muzzle a dogged murderer in time—or she’ll be next on someone’s deadly list. HERE COMES SANTA PAWS As Melanie attempts to deck the halls in a house overrun by pampered Poodles, her event planner friend, Claire, is busy playing Santa for the wealthiest clientele on Connecticut’s Gold Coast. But when Claire’s stylish stint uncovers a dead body, Melanie and her nosy Aunt Peg dash into a dizzying investigation to rein in a sinister Kris Kringle before they’re the next ones on someone’s deadly wish list . . .
September 17, 2024
A Furry Little Christmas is really a combination of two novels, Wagging Through the Snow and Here Comes Santa Paws. I really enjoyed the first one where her brother Frank buys a Christmas tree farm. It's rundown and overgrown, but he got it for a bargain! During the first visit, there's body found in the snow. Melanie doesn't believe he was just a homeless drunk who got clobbered by a falling tree limb and died of exposure. Her prying sets off a whole chain of events that puts her in danger.
The second one, Here Comes Santa Paws, involves Claire who is married to Melanie's ex-husband. She's a personal Christmas shopper. She calls Melanie up in a panic when she discoveres one of her clients is dead. Again, Melanie can't leave it be and someone gets angry with her meddling.
I really liked the first one better than the second, but they were both fun reads. I like the whole relationship she has with Peggy, with her kids, husband and her dogs. It's easy reading, very smoothly written.
The second one, Here Comes Santa Paws, involves Claire who is married to Melanie's ex-husband. She's a personal Christmas shopper. She calls Melanie up in a panic when she discoveres one of her clients is dead. Again, Melanie can't leave it be and someone gets angry with her meddling.
I really liked the first one better than the second, but they were both fun reads. I like the whole relationship she has with Peggy, with her kids, husband and her dogs. It's easy reading, very smoothly written.
January 8, 2024
This is a pair of previously published stories featuring Melanie Travis, her Standard Poodles, friends and family. Centered around Christmas events, Melanie helps family members and friends solve murders before they’re arrested for the crimes.
In Wagging Through the Snow, Melanie’s brother has purchased a Christmas tree farm, and everyone is talked into helping out during the busy season. And then a body is discovered…
In Here Comes Santa Paws, Melanie gets an urgent call from her friend Claire. Claire has been a personal Christmas shopper for some of the wealthiest people in the area. And then a body is discovered…
These two novellas are easy reads with Laurien Berenson’s signature dog knowledge and the great telling of a story. The style is casual and draws you into solving the mysteries offered.
Always an enjoyable read.
In Wagging Through the Snow, Melanie’s brother has purchased a Christmas tree farm, and everyone is talked into helping out during the busy season. And then a body is discovered…
In Here Comes Santa Paws, Melanie gets an urgent call from her friend Claire. Claire has been a personal Christmas shopper for some of the wealthiest people in the area. And then a body is discovered…
These two novellas are easy reads with Laurien Berenson’s signature dog knowledge and the great telling of a story. The style is casual and draws you into solving the mysteries offered.
Always an enjoyable read.
October 2, 2023
Two fun shorts that will get you into the Christmas mood and feed your need to solve a mystery. In Wagging Through the Snow Melanie is trying to keep up with the holiday rush along with her household. During all the hubbub Melanie is faced with a new business venture that leads to a dead body. Melanie knows she has to figure out who the killer is before she ends up dead herself.
In Here Comes Santa Paws Melanie's event planner friend is working an event for the elites of Connecticut. When a body is discovered Melanie wants to help her friend out and figure out just who the killer is. With the help of her Aunt Peg she jumps into the investigation and hopes to find the killer before anyone else ends up.dead.
In Here Comes Santa Paws Melanie's event planner friend is working an event for the elites of Connecticut. When a body is discovered Melanie wants to help her friend out and figure out just who the killer is. With the help of her Aunt Peg she jumps into the investigation and hopes to find the killer before anyone else ends up.dead.
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