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The Liturgical Mystery #10
The Christmas Cantata
St. Germaine, North Carolina was in a crabby mood. Yes, the whole town. If a temperament could affect an entire populace, "crabby" was what St. Germaine was. Noylene's new personal Christian astrologer, a woman named Goldi Fawn Birtwhistle, blamed it on the convergence of Pluto and the third moon of Jupiter.Pete Moss, the owner of the Slab Café, thought that the crabbiness might have something to do with the increasing levels of positive ion bombardment from outer space. Also included in Pete's theory were sunspots, an ever-widening hole in the ozone layer, the federal deficit, CNN election coverage, armadillo migration, and the cancellation of two long-running soap operas.Usually in St. Germaine, the three weeks before Christmas were marked by an increase in good feelings toward one's fellow man. Not this year.St. Germaine's police chief, Hayden Konig, and all the usual suspects, return in this heartwarming Christmas tale. When a long-lost cantata is found in the basement of the courthouse, a Christmas Eve performance is the order of the day. What happens next is anyone's guess.A St. Germaine Christmas EntertainmentThe Christmas CantataIt's not what you expect...it's even funnier!
98 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2011
19 people are currently reading
129 people want to read
About the author
Mark Schweizer
37 books84 followersIn 1974, Mark Schweizer, a brand-new high-school graduate decided to eschew the family architectural business and become an opera singer. Against all prevailing wisdom and despite jokes from his peers such as "What does the music major say after his first job interview?" (answer: You want fries with that?), he enrolled in the Music School at Stetson University. To his father, the rationale was obvious. No math requirement.
Everything happens for a reason, however, and he now lives and works as a musician, composer, author and publisher in Tryon, North Carolina with his lovely wife, Donis. If anyone finds out what he’s up to, he’ll have to go back to work at Mr. Steak. He actually has a bunch of degrees, including a Doctor of Musical Arts from the University of Arizona. I know! What were they thinking?
In the field of bad writing, Mark had the distinction of receiving a Dishonorable Mention in the 2006 Bulwer-Lytton Fiction Contest, an annual contest in which the entrants compete for the dubious honor of having composed the worst opening sentence to an imaginary novel. In 2007, his sentence now found on page 17 of The Mezzo Wore Mink was runner-up in the Detective Category. This, and two other of his entries, were featured in It Was A Dark and Stormy Night: A Collection of the Worst Fiction Ever Written, edited by Scott Rice and published by The Friday Project.
In varying stages of his career, Mark has waited tables, written articles for Collgehumor.com, won opera competitions, sung oratorios, taught in college music departments, raised pot-bellied pigs and hedgehogs, directed church choirs, sung the bass solo to Beethoven’s 9th with the Atlanta Symphony, hosted a classical music radio show, taught in a seminary, sung recitals, started a regional opera company, published choral music, built a log cabin, written opera librettos, directed stage productions, helped his wife to raise their two children and managed to remain married for thirty-two years. He also owns several chainsaws.
“Well,” Donis says, “it’s never boring.
In the fall of 2001, I began what I hoped would be a funny little book about an Episcopal choir director/ detective that had a flair for bad writing. Now, nine years later, that book, The Alto Wore Tweed, has had its ninth printing and the rest of the books (bad writing aside) are winning awards and working hard to catch up. Thanks to you, the Hayden Konig adventures continue to make their way into the hands of mystery lovers and across church choirs, one reader and singer at a time.
Everything happens for a reason, however, and he now lives and works as a musician, composer, author and publisher in Tryon, North Carolina with his lovely wife, Donis. If anyone finds out what he’s up to, he’ll have to go back to work at Mr. Steak. He actually has a bunch of degrees, including a Doctor of Musical Arts from the University of Arizona. I know! What were they thinking?
In the field of bad writing, Mark had the distinction of receiving a Dishonorable Mention in the 2006 Bulwer-Lytton Fiction Contest, an annual contest in which the entrants compete for the dubious honor of having composed the worst opening sentence to an imaginary novel. In 2007, his sentence now found on page 17 of The Mezzo Wore Mink was runner-up in the Detective Category. This, and two other of his entries, were featured in It Was A Dark and Stormy Night: A Collection of the Worst Fiction Ever Written, edited by Scott Rice and published by The Friday Project.
In varying stages of his career, Mark has waited tables, written articles for Collgehumor.com, won opera competitions, sung oratorios, taught in college music departments, raised pot-bellied pigs and hedgehogs, directed church choirs, sung the bass solo to Beethoven’s 9th with the Atlanta Symphony, hosted a classical music radio show, taught in a seminary, sung recitals, started a regional opera company, published choral music, built a log cabin, written opera librettos, directed stage productions, helped his wife to raise their two children and managed to remain married for thirty-two years. He also owns several chainsaws.
“Well,” Donis says, “it’s never boring.
In the fall of 2001, I began what I hoped would be a funny little book about an Episcopal choir director/ detective that had a flair for bad writing. Now, nine years later, that book, The Alto Wore Tweed, has had its ninth printing and the rest of the books (bad writing aside) are winning awards and working hard to catch up. Thanks to you, the Hayden Konig adventures continue to make their way into the hands of mystery lovers and across church choirs, one reader and singer at a time.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 61 reviews
December 15, 2018
Having just finished a particularly sad and dense book, I needed something really light. Well, nothing fits that bill like one of the Liturgical Mysteries by Mark Schweizer. And it’s almost Christmas, so The Christmas Cantata it is.
Schweizer might not be everyone’s cup of tea. Hayden Konig, the main character, is not only the police chief of little St. Germaine, but also the choir director at St. Barnabas Episcopal Church. As an Episcopalian myself, who sings in the choir, I get he musical references and the sly church humor. I still count the first book in this series, The Alto Wore Tweed, as one of the funniest books I’ve ever read. This book doesn’t rise anywhere close to that level but that’s a high bar to reach.
This book doesn’t have the typical mystery. Here, the mystery is the origins of a newly found Christmas Cantata that was just found and is to be performed at the church’s Xmas Eve service.
But you don't have to be an Episcopalian to enjoy the feel good Christmas joy. You’ll chuckle, you’ll smile and you may even shed a few tears.
June 24, 2015
As the title reveals, it's Christmas time in St. Germaine, North Carolina, and Hayden Konig, police chief and organist/choir master, is putting on a cantata for the Christmas Eve service. Found in the archives of the city hall, from the pen of an unknown composer and long forgotten, this cantata had been debuted on Christmas Eve of 1942. Konig figures that's a good reason to give it a re-run this year. But even more interesting: who was the composer?
I simply adore the Liturgical Mysteries. In most of them, I laugh myself silly over the antics of the characters. This particular volume wasn't as humorous and the mystery wasn't the typical one that starts with a dead body. Instead, it was a more gentle episode, quite appropriate for the winter holiday—full of good cheer.
I simply adore the Liturgical Mysteries. In most of them, I laugh myself silly over the antics of the characters. This particular volume wasn't as humorous and the mystery wasn't the typical one that starts with a dead body. Instead, it was a more gentle episode, quite appropriate for the winter holiday—full of good cheer.
June 28, 2020
These "Liturgical Mysteries" by Mark Schweizer are delightful reading. During this pandemic, trying to move away from the almighty Kindle/Amazon, I ordered this one on my Nook and got to add the edition to GoodReads. This series does not need to be read in order, though of course, things grow and change so I am sure some like that orderliness.
In the 1930s a young U.S. woman follows the passion of her heart to study music in France, falls in love, and eventually writes a Christmas cantata, using some poems by Sara Teasdale (real poet). Sometime in the early 2000s the manuscript is found in St. Germaine, North Carolina, and captivates first the organist-detective, his choir, and then the whole town. But who is it by? Why does no one remember the premier performance? Where is the final movement? Will it all be ready by Christmas?
In all of Schweizer's book are clever characters, lovely western Carolina scenery, silliness, musical and liturgical wisdom, and good hearts. I think I will pull this one out to read again at Christmastime or maybe Advent (because they are not the same, you know). Just six months away.
In the 1930s a young U.S. woman follows the passion of her heart to study music in France, falls in love, and eventually writes a Christmas cantata, using some poems by Sara Teasdale (real poet). Sometime in the early 2000s the manuscript is found in St. Germaine, North Carolina, and captivates first the organist-detective, his choir, and then the whole town. But who is it by? Why does no one remember the premier performance? Where is the final movement? Will it all be ready by Christmas?
In all of Schweizer's book are clever characters, lovely western Carolina scenery, silliness, musical and liturgical wisdom, and good hearts. I think I will pull this one out to read again at Christmastime or maybe Advent (because they are not the same, you know). Just six months away.
January 30, 2018
4.5 stars really. I think this is my favorite in the series so far. There isn't a murder, but a mystery that needs to be solved. Wonderful.
September 9, 2014
What could be more magical than all my friends in St. Germaine from books #1-9 interacting in a special Christmas story of redemption and restoration? For this one special occasion, Mark Schweizer forgoes witty puns and his own special Raymond-Chandleresque mystery to tell a sweet tale of a newly discovered cantata written in 1942, but never performed. While the entire tone of the book is radically different from the tongue-in-cheek humor of the other books in the series, I found this difference spellbinding. I couldn't turn the pages fast enough. Who was this mysterious composer? Why wasn't her incredible work performed at St. Barnabas way back when? What caused the music to be so mood-altering for everyone who heard it? Truly a wonderful mystery. I loved the masterful way Schweizer unfolded clues, dribbling out drip by drip to amp up the suspense. This may be my new favorite liturgical mystery. Makes me feel the Christmas joy and peace on earth all over. SIGH!
December 10, 2011
This St. Germaine novella features everyone’s favorite mystery writer wannabee, Hayden Konig. But this time he isn’t penning those literary snippets. This novella is geared for the holidays where the residents of St. Germaine, NC, are grumpy and ornery. Interspersed through the story is a back story of 1937 when a young woman meets the love of her life before he is shipped off to war. Meanwhile, a cantata is found in the basement of the courthouse. At first it appears too difficult for the choir to handle. But once the notes fall into place, a strange feeling of Holiday cheer blankets the town. All the usual characters are on hand for this “feel good” ditty which can be read any time of the year.
January 5, 2012
I received this book as a Christmas present because anyone who know me knows I'm a big Mark Schweizer laugh. There are few writers than can have me laughing hysterically while riding on a bus, but Schweizer is one of them.
This however, was not the typical Mark Schweizer book. There was no murder, and no potboiler being written by Hayden. There was a lovely story, with some gentle humour thrown in. As well, there is not as much necessity to know about liturgy and church polity in this book than in his usual fare. I can recommend the book, simply because it's another story about Hayden, but I think it belongs more with those who are on the sentimental side.
This however, was not the typical Mark Schweizer book. There was no murder, and no potboiler being written by Hayden. There was a lovely story, with some gentle humour thrown in. As well, there is not as much necessity to know about liturgy and church polity in this book than in his usual fare. I can recommend the book, simply because it's another story about Hayden, but I think it belongs more with those who are on the sentimental side.
June 3, 2020
I adore this series, and there are usually at least 2 if not 3 story lines intertwined. The Christmas Cantata is different, and is one of the most moving books I've read. I've recently re-read all the books, and had forgotten how amazing this one was. This book has some lighter moments, but don't expect the same level of hilarity the other titles deliver. Read this one, enjoy it, and then read #11 when you're ready.
December 29, 2017
I received this as a Christmas gift and what a lovely little bonbon of Christmas sweetness it was. Both funny and touching. And the inside workings of the church made me laugh - because it's so *real*. Redemption rules in St. Germaine when the newly found Cantata is performed.
January 5, 2018
One of the best from Schweitzer
One of Schweitzer's best. Humorous as always, but also moving and musically interesting. I re-read it for the holiday season and enjoyed it on the repeat reading maybe more than the first time.
One of Schweitzer's best. Humorous as always, but also moving and musically interesting. I re-read it for the holiday season and enjoyed it on the repeat reading maybe more than the first time.
November 29, 2018
A wonderful surprise
Schweitzer’s liturgical liturgical mysteries are always a fun read, particularly if you know the blue ridge or church music. The Christmas Cantata goes beyond the norm. A sweet, uplifting story that remains true to the central characters.
Schweitzer’s liturgical liturgical mysteries are always a fun read, particularly if you know the blue ridge or church music. The Christmas Cantata goes beyond the norm. A sweet, uplifting story that remains true to the central characters.
February 7, 2019
Wonderful story
Should be a movie. Would be perfect if script stays with story. Mr Schweizer could write the musical score. St. Germane could be the new Bedford Falls. I believe Mr. Schweizer already has the roles cast in his mind.
Should be a movie. Would be perfect if script stays with story. Mr Schweizer could write the musical score. St. Germane could be the new Bedford Falls. I believe Mr. Schweizer already has the roles cast in his mind.
December 22, 2022
A mystery, but not one of the gruesome murder kind. Set in a village in North Carolina where a church choir is practicing a cantata for a Christmas service and shot through with gentle humor. Heartwarming, with appealing characters.
June 6, 2023
This book is a must read.
I loved this book. Not a murder but a who wrote the cantata story. I loved reading this story. I loved the love story and the story that he wrote. I’m going to reread the book.
I loved this book. Not a murder but a who wrote the cantata story. I loved reading this story. I loved the love story and the story that he wrote. I’m going to reread the book.
March 15, 2017
Too much Mitford and not enough St. Germaine. Still, I was entertained. And the part about how a choir can move and be moved by a piece of beautiful music -- I resonated with that. (No pun intended.)
November 1, 2017
More novella than novel, but full of beauty, faith, and joy.
December 21, 2017
A lovely tale
I have read this at Christmas for several years and it gets better each time I read it. A sweet story!
I have read this at Christmas for several years and it gets better each time I read it. A sweet story!
November 17, 2018
Different because of all the music references.
April 25, 2019
This is a very short book in the Liturgical Mysteries. A heartfelt storyline weaves its way through the storyline.
Would be great to read during the Christmas season!!
Would be great to read during the Christmas season!!
June 5, 2020
For the first couple of chapters I thought this one was going to be weaker than his others, which I love. But the darn thing made me get misty-eyed more than once. Crazy.
September 20, 2020
Fun "mystery" book ---- I pictured everyone several of my choir members in this book. ;-) ha ha!
December 28, 2020
It started off slow, but then improved and I liked it.
February 19, 2021
Fun read
December 24, 2022
A charming and uplifting addition to the liturgical mysteries series. Perfect for this time of year.
October 14, 2023
A lovely, charming Christmas story.
March 16, 2024
Another humorous tale by Mark Schweizer, with a wonderful Christmas story intertwined.
December 2, 2025
This is one of those little "want to read every year" books set at Christmas! A funny mystery, perfect for the season of cheer!
January 26, 2020
This is a lovely little book hidden in the middle of the Liturgical Mysteries series. A mystery with no body, but puzzling out a piece of the past. One of the sweetest holiday themed books I have read in years.
September 26, 2022
For fans of the liturgical mysteries, a sweet Christmas story with the series trademark humor and offbeat characters.
December 25, 2025
I discovered Mark Schweizer and his series of The Liturgical Mysteries just over 2 years ago. Last December I read the tenth installment, The Christmas Cantata, for the first time, and just completed the book for the second time this December. The Christmas Cantata is a must-read Christmas classic that I will read each year.
Though the rest of The Liturgical Mysteries series is thoroughly enjoyable and very well written (and I highly recommend them), Cantata is just a cut above the others.
It is not necessary to read the entire series to understand this particular volume of the story. Yes, it helps of course if one had, but that is because several years and a breadth of characters have culminated into this story. The author successfully gives just enough background without overrunning the narrative with backstory. For those reading this installment first, I believe it will easily turn you onto the rest of the series.
The other books in the series focus on Hayden Konig’s dream of being a writer in the vein of Raymond Chandler, thus we read Hayden’s writings as they are integrated into the storyline. This is a signature of the author, a notable voice in comedic writing. Cantata, however, takes a break and departs from this by paralleling a story of mystery that began 60-70 years earlier that is then woven into the present day plotline. (Though the witty writing of Hayden’s everyday life is as great as ever.)
A specific point I appreciate is that this particular book has a bit more universal appeal. Due to the book being only 95 pages, the focus is more directly on the plot itself. In Mark’s other books, there is a delicious wandering of the intricacies of the Episcopal Church and the characters that dwell in St. Germaine. I spent approximately 25 years in the Episcopal Church and having been a musician (and a church choir member), there are subjects that Mark draws into the stories that I can identify with because of this background. Cantata does not spend as much time on these subjects, and my appreciation in this is that I may introduce this specific book to more people than I feel I could if it were another book in the series.
This novella can easily be read in the midst of the holiday rush, as it flows quickly, and most people could read it within a couple of hours. The story invites you into the cozy mountain town of St. Germaine, makes you laugh, and will pull at your heartstrings. The Christmas Cantata truly is a beautiful piece. Slow down and savor this story this Christmas season.
Though the rest of The Liturgical Mysteries series is thoroughly enjoyable and very well written (and I highly recommend them), Cantata is just a cut above the others.
It is not necessary to read the entire series to understand this particular volume of the story. Yes, it helps of course if one had, but that is because several years and a breadth of characters have culminated into this story. The author successfully gives just enough background without overrunning the narrative with backstory. For those reading this installment first, I believe it will easily turn you onto the rest of the series.
The other books in the series focus on Hayden Konig’s dream of being a writer in the vein of Raymond Chandler, thus we read Hayden’s writings as they are integrated into the storyline. This is a signature of the author, a notable voice in comedic writing. Cantata, however, takes a break and departs from this by paralleling a story of mystery that began 60-70 years earlier that is then woven into the present day plotline. (Though the witty writing of Hayden’s everyday life is as great as ever.)
A specific point I appreciate is that this particular book has a bit more universal appeal. Due to the book being only 95 pages, the focus is more directly on the plot itself. In Mark’s other books, there is a delicious wandering of the intricacies of the Episcopal Church and the characters that dwell in St. Germaine. I spent approximately 25 years in the Episcopal Church and having been a musician (and a church choir member), there are subjects that Mark draws into the stories that I can identify with because of this background. Cantata does not spend as much time on these subjects, and my appreciation in this is that I may introduce this specific book to more people than I feel I could if it were another book in the series.
This novella can easily be read in the midst of the holiday rush, as it flows quickly, and most people could read it within a couple of hours. The story invites you into the cozy mountain town of St. Germaine, makes you laugh, and will pull at your heartstrings. The Christmas Cantata truly is a beautiful piece. Slow down and savor this story this Christmas season.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 61 reviews