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Afterlife Issues #4

The Trouble with Tinsel

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An unusual inheritance
A beloved niece
A Christmas like no other


When the St. Sebastian Christmas pageant goes wrong in a big way, Jess and Libby are called in to solve a crime that was eighty years in the making.

The ladies already had their hands full, battling a turkey infestation, a cranky cop, and the usual Christmas chaos when the town’s wealthiest resident turns up dead.

Alfie Nettles loved St. Sebastian, and the town loved him. But after a mysterious inheritance, everything changed, except for one special little person. Carmen Nettles loved her uncle and her pleas for help cannot be ignored.

Jess and Libby take the case, and the questions about Alfie’s death lead to questions about his life. Why did the town’s beloved handyman go into isolation? Why did he inherit, and where did the money come from?
Everyone hopes Alfie will turn up to solve his own murder but in the country’s most haunted hamlet you have to be careful what you wish for. It is St. Sebastian, after all.

"A Humorous Twisty Paranormal Ghost Mystery"

324 pages, Kindle Edition

Published October 3, 2023

203 people are currently reading
46 people want to read

About the author

A.W. Hartoin

47 books228 followers
USA Today bestselling author A.W. Hartoin grew up in rural Missouri, but her grandmother lived in the Central West End area of St. Louis. The CWE fascinated her with its enormous houses, every one unique. She was sure there was a story behind each ornate door. Going to Grandma’s house was a treat and an adventure. As the only grandchild around for many years, A.W. spent her visits exploring the many rooms with their many secrets. That’s how Mercy Watts and the fairies of Whipplethorn came to be.
As an adult, A.W. Hartoin decided she needed a whole lot more life experience if she was going to write good characters so she joined the Air Force. It was the best education she could’ve hoped for. She met her husband and traveled the world, living in Alaska, Italy, and Germany before settling in Colorado for nearly eleven years. Now A.W. has returned to Germany and lives in picturesque Waldenbuch with her family and two spoiled cats, who absolutely believe they should be allowed to escape and roam the village freely.

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5 stars
573 (72%)
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170 (21%)
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48 (6%)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 53 reviews
Profile Image for Brooke.
969 reviews49 followers
April 15, 2024
I adore this book and series, for that matter. It's like coming home after having a bad day. You sink into your favorite clothes and fall into your favorite chair and cuddle up with your favorite blanket.

Christmas is my favorite holiday and getting to see this family dynamic during this season warms my heart. Their season isn't like everyone else's, but they make it their own. I'm not going to lie, I was expecting it to be more like their Thanksgiving. More of them together, decorating their tree, baking, etc.

Unfortunately it didn't have near as much of it as I had hoped. But that didn't take away from everything else going on to bring them together. There was so much else going on to unpack towards the end that I can't help but hope to see another book in the series!
Profile Image for Julie Howard.
Author 2 books31 followers
September 10, 2023
Oh boy, this author does it again. I got told off for chuckling and when I tried to explain why, I got the strangest look and end up just saying you have to read it to find out. It sounds so bizarre but somehow when you are reading it all makes perfect sense and I love it. Turkey and tinsel takes on a whole new meaning. I never thought about animals coming back as ghost but it is hilarious the way this author writes it and so easy to imagine. The characters are like a ray of sunshine and are a pleasure to spend time with every single of them, including the ghosts. It was fun to read how the twins Christmas show turned out especially with all the build up in the previous books as they prepared, let's just say it's not you average show. It does work as a standalone but it is so much better when read from the start, you get to know the characters so much better. The mystery was unusual and had me wondering what was going on and what was going to happen next the whole way through. I can't wait for the next book.
It's finally show night and the twins hard work pays off, until a drunk crashes the performance and shouts at one of the young performers. The drunk was her uncle and the town's reclusive resident. He hides out in his mansion and won't even let his family visit, which means when he turns up dead Libby and Jess get called in. The town needs them to help the new ghost come to terms with his death and solve his murder because between him and a ghost cop trying to hand out tickets and causing accidents there is not going to be much of St. Sebastian left otherwise.
I was given this free review copy book at my request and have voluntary left this review.
1,062 reviews35 followers
October 1, 2023
It goes without saying that this oh so entertaining series by favorite author A. W. Hartoin just keeps getting better: funnier, new characters to get to know better and learning more about characters we already know, something you never would have imagined to be fixed, figured out or gotten rid of and that thread of strong family that runs throughout – things that still aren’t quite right, things that still need to be accepted, regrets, sorrow, hope.

Life in the St. Sebastian house is never dull. Life with the twins is never dull. They are clever, active, ambitious and exuberant. Considerate of their mother Libby and of Jess in the way that only teenage boys can be. Which is to say very considerate in intent but not always that considerate in fact. They try, but they always have another project going, another idea – or they’re just hungry. Mariah sometimes gets dragged along, sometimes joins in voluntarily, sometimes stubbornly decides to do her own thing. Considerate of her mother Jess and of Libby in the ways of a teenager girl, which is to say often very, very dramatic. And now, as the Christmas holiday is right around the corner, dull has moved the needle to frantic. There’s an extravagant Christmas pageant to put on, a ghost turkey infestation (and you thought the ducks were bad), a long-dead cop who just won’t go away and causes more trouble than you would think one ghost guy could do, and a new case involving a mysterious, secretive wealthy town resident, Alfie Nettles, who seems to have been murdered, but whose ghost won’t slow down enough from mischief making to help solve the crime. Add in the fact that this is the first Christmas without Hal for Jess and Mariah and that everyone is trying to cope with that.

Put it all together and you’ve got another well-plotted, fast-paced story with a dizzying number of events and clues that you keep you wondering and guessing (when you’re not laughing, groaning, or worrying about the residents of Number Eight) but all comes together and makes perfect sense in the end. And of course leaves a delightful little crumb of what might be next.

There’s a greedy family, an unexplained inheritance, an unsolved murder, random ghosts popping up here and there, often not knowing what to do so ending up doing the wrong thing and a new element tossed in for good measure – the ability to predict the future. Sounds great but maybe not so much. Libby’s mom is still staying with them, Libby has had to spend some time with Derek and it drives her crazy. Does she like it? Does she want to? Is the reason for his past behavior becoming any clearer, and does it even matter? Jess still doesn’t have Hal’s insurance, and Leo, the sexiest dead person ever, has a soft spot for Libby – whatever in the heck that means. So much going on, but it all blends together so perfectly into another delightful adventure in bizarre St. Sebastian, and every little hanging bit makes you want to keep reading to see where it connects and find the next hanging bit. And once again we are treated to a little blast from one of author Hartoin’s other not-to-be-missed series: a weird little oddball who can cook. Boy can he cook! Hello to Aaron.

Thanks to the author for providing an advance copy of The Trouble with Tinsel. I can hardly wait to get started in any new book of hers. It’s always a one-sitting read because I just can’t stop. This is another amazing addition to my Hartoin Library that I recommend without hesitation. I leave this review voluntarily; all opinions are my own.
14 reviews
November 5, 2023
Jess and Libby are starting over after experiencing heartache and loss in their lives. They and their children moved to St Sebastian into the locally known haunted house/former funeral home with such interesting characters that bring fun and life. The book keeps you engaged and entertained. This author is one of my favorites and this series keeps getting better and the cross references with her Mercy Watts series is super! Hope they get together one day!

It’s Christmas in St. Sebastian and there are ghost turkeys in the Volvo. There’s a murder at the twins’ Christmas pageant and they’re on the case! That’s because they can see ghosts!

Life gets complicated when the town’s ghost cop goes nuts and wants to help solve the case where the town’s richest man and recluse is murdered.

There was something taken during the murder and Jess and Libby have to find it to solve the case. The road they traveled was strange and weary. The ‘eggs’ as the two boys were called as they are always on the sunny side, kept everyone going with their fun antics as they met new ghosts and friends along the way. Libby was able to mend her relationship with her brother and the Historical Society Christmas tour including Number 18 was sold out and loved by all! Things were always better at Number 18 and Christmas morning was no different. They got the call and it’s off to the next mystery! Stay tuned! You won’t be disappointed!
Profile Image for Eve Calloway .
99 reviews3 followers
October 13, 2025
Lo que amo a esta serie y a estos personajes. No quiero se termine nunca. Fue una lectura entretenida, divertida, bizarra y misteriosa.

“I can’t believe this is my life.”
“’Tis the season.”
“For dead cops and insane turkeys?”
“That’s St. Seb for you,” said my son.


Esta historia, en particular, se convirtió en una de mis favoritas. Me divertí mucho con este nuevo misterio. Literalmente, me atrapó desde el primer momento y lo único que quería era saber cómo se iba a resolver. Me gustó ver un poco más de desarrollo de los personajes y verlos en su día a día con sus casos y sus vidas.

“And where do you have these turkeys, anyway?”
“They’re in my Volvo,” said Jess.
“You have turkeys in your Volvo?”
“Well, they’re not alive, obviously.”


Sé que este libro es con temática navideña, pero no podia no leerlo en esta época del año. Me encantaría leer los dos que faltan, pero, a la vez no quiero, porque se me van a terminar. Esta serie me encanta y se convirtió en una de mis favoritas.

“This is reckless driving. I am forced to give you a ticket.”
“You can’t give me a ticket. You’re dead.”
Profile Image for Lonny Johnson.
436 reviews13 followers
July 26, 2024
This is a great series of cozies. Small town life meets Ghost Story. St. Seb bills itself as the most haunted town in the world. Libby and Jess are the new women in town and they quickly become the Ghost Investigators. With the help of Leo, the ghost who built the ex-mortuary they now live in, they deal with the ghosts of a crying nanny, a tough 30's PI, angry factory workers killed in industrial accidents, and the chickens who have driven their live counterparts from the coop. Of course there are also family issues, small town life with everybody knowing your business, and financial issues as two single womwn trying to get by on their own. If you like ghost stories without a lot of scary moments you will love these books. I sincerely hope Ms. Hartoin continues the series.
Profile Image for Sandra Hernandez.
714 reviews4 followers
August 9, 2025
The more I read the series the more I enjoy it this time around we get learn more about Libby’s brother Cord. He’s her big brother and he’s always been pretty distant, but we get to know why. This mystery revolves around a recluse named Alfie he basically gets murdered sometime during the Christmas pageant, and since Libby finds the body and Jess is blamed at first, although really quickly they take her out as a suspect. Libby still feels like she needs to solve it. Definitely an interesting story little bit more supernaturally.
Profile Image for Melanie Underwood.
243 reviews5 followers
September 26, 2023
A thoroughly entertaining and brilliantly imaginative novel by the wonderfully talented author A.W. Hartoin. I've read several of her books and was lucky enough to read this in advance of publication - the second Jess and Libby book I've read.

I will certainly be treating myself to the other two in the series when I have a few days to relax and immerse myself in more wonderful and quirky stories.
38 reviews
October 7, 2023
Just good entertainment

So great to read a book and it is exactly what a good fictional story should be, a make believe entertaining story that takes you away from real life. Even the serious stuff stays light hearted bc of the characters and the writers great approach in humor and emotions. I really love this series, so cute, so fun, and very interesting. I can't wait for the next one!
68 reviews6 followers
November 10, 2023
takes a little while to get going

I very much enjoy the series and the situations that occur. However, the reader must be familiar with the supporting characters or it’s hopeless. Several times I considered going back to a previous book so I could refresh my memory. This particular entry felt a little weak, the stakes not as high - the main plot wasn’t fleshed out and the ending seemed abrupt.
Profile Image for JoAn.
2,453 reviews1 follower
February 20, 2025
Another fun adventure with Libby and Jess. It's Christmas time in St. Sebastian and there are several activities going on in town including a school Christmas pageant. Chaos ensues after a murder as the ghost of the victim is running amok through St. Sebastian. There are also a few personal issues that both Jess and Libby must face while trying to solve the case. Murder, chaos, two new ghosts that need their help and family make this one entertaining book from start to finish.
Profile Image for fred jones.
1,779 reviews11 followers
July 9, 2025
A laugh out loud cozy mystery

I really loved this one. I mean who wouldn't love a Volvo full of ghost turkeys and ghost hen alaying. Jess and Libby are at the town pageant when the local dunk if found dead and his ghost begins causing accidents all over town. A fabulous story with lots of ghosts, an entertaining storyline with seasonal fun, family secrets and did I mention the ghosts. Great characters. The best one yet. I highly recommend this series.
Profile Image for Karen Kerr.
121 reviews1 follower
October 4, 2023
I absolutely adored this book. The characters draw you in and you don't want to put the book down until you've gotten to the bottom of the mystery. I love all of these characters and the ghosts who create havoc in many different and funny ways. Buy this book...Read the whole series you won't regret it!
1,012 reviews1 follower
October 15, 2023
An Angle, A Curse & A Turkey

This is such a light hearted Chaotic series. I love the slightly flawed characters and the easy flow of the story from o e epic event to the next. I highly recommend this story and while it can be read as a stand alone this series is best read in order to get the most out of each story.
562 reviews4 followers
October 26, 2023
Another fun read

I am really enjoying this cosy mystery series. A fun and interesting twist with a town full of ghosts. Add in some lovable but quirky characters as well as a murder to solve and you have a laugh out loud, fast paced excellent read. Can't wait for the next book. Highly recommend.
Profile Image for Barbara Moore.
40 reviews
November 10, 2023
Entertaining!

Hartoin really does have a creative flair producing paranormal fantasies.
The writing flows and the rather eccentric plots and characters are amusing while the mystery, while not up to Christie or Sayers standards, are interesting.
A really good light and feel good series.
56 reviews
November 14, 2023
This is one of the most unusual series I’ve read

This series really keeps me confused. There is so much going on, I don’t know what I’m supposed to be watching for. I love Max, Henri and Mariah but I don’t think I could handle having the twins as my children.
I enjoy Jess and Libby’s interactions with ghosts and whatever else comes their way.
21 reviews
December 9, 2023
Accidents and traffic cop

Who would ever think that a traffic cop would cause so many accidents. I guess when you see said dead cop, as a ghost, directing traffic you might tend to hit the car next to you. And if that isn't enough imagine having your back seat filled with turkey ghosts.
36 reviews
January 13, 2024
Powerful reading

The characters were out of this world some literally . Funny, sad and the storylines are spell binding . once you think you know who the culprit is then you find out that you really don't !!! I am recommending the series to family and friends .. Thank you for the entertainment !!!
63 reviews1 follower
March 28, 2025
So good!

I dearly wish I could live in St. Seb, but failing that, these books are wonderful. It’s not just the ghosts as a funny sideline, but the very real and very serious emotional turmoil people are going through. Well, not the Eggs, of course.

I think these books are very full bodied and well rounded stories of a fantastical place full of very real people.
Profile Image for Fred Hewett.
174 reviews10 followers
October 7, 2023
Another chaotic adventure

Once again, Libby and Jess solve a mystery with chaos surrounding them. Also, family issues are addressed, and some solved.

My only complaint is a hit and run. It appears to be obvious who did it, but it is not even discussed. Oh well.
Profile Image for Mary Barna.
191 reviews
October 9, 2023
What a fun book!

A, W. Hartoin writes funny books. ALL of her books are fun to read, but this one is in her top ten best. Who can resist a Christmas filled with ghosts? Ghost traffic cops, smelly ghosts, and even ghost turkeys, appear in this delightful Christmas story,
Profile Image for SusanR.
124 reviews1 follower
October 19, 2023
This is a Great Series

This is turning out to be one.of my favorite series. Libby, Jess, Leo, and every one else in the books are fully real to me. I would love to live in St. Seb..
Profile Image for Andi.
2,199 reviews
October 27, 2023
3.5 stars. I love this series, but the pacing of this installment was a bit slow. I also didn’t enjoy the mystery surrounding Libby’s animosity with her brother.

But I did enjoy the turkeys and stinky trappers. I’m looking forward to the next one!
Profile Image for Lavada Haga.
147 reviews1 follower
October 31, 2023
Very good book

I really enjoyed reading this book and the other three in this series. The thing I liked best is how everyone, living and dead, contributed towards the solving of the mysteries. It was a lot of fun.
28 reviews
January 12, 2024
Read This Wonderful Series In Order!!!

To A.W.Hartoin: Please write more adventures with Jess and Libby.

We love all the amazing characters whether dead or alive.

Mahalo in advance.
81 reviews1 follower
June 1, 2024
This book is just as enjoyable as the previous three, maybe more so, with more ghosts popping up everywhere.
I got so involved with the mysteries and the families, that I'd like to see more of the series.
27 reviews
September 4, 2024
Entertaining

This series is hilarious. It is chock full of family fun and antics. I will read more from the author. It is extremely hard to put down the books once you start. You just want to see what happens next.
49 reviews1 follower
October 15, 2024
Amazing series. I'm captivated.

Two middle-aged best women friends going through personal crisis. They buy a mortuary home, start seeing ghosts, and solving haunting. I'm sooo glad I found this series and this author.
Profile Image for Jenn Miller.
40 reviews2 followers
October 5, 2023
Always fun

Another great adventure. This few is so fun and full of crazy. You never know what kind of ghost will pop up. I hope to see more of Pam.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 53 reviews

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