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The Skeleton Crew #3

A Merry Murderous Midwinter

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Welcome back to the Skeleton Crew. Bring your knitting needles, a good strong brew, and plenty of snacks. You’re going to need them.

Gender-fluid, autistic vampire Hyde Snodgrass is living their best life with their bookshop, cats, and witch girlfriend, Teresa Vega. The colours of autumn are beginning to blend into winter. An ordinarily joyous midwinter is spoiled by the arrival of their estranged family.

When their murderous uncle is found dead in front of their shop, Hyde finds themselves unwillingly dragged into the investigation. Accusations swirl around South Myrddin. It takes a village to untangle the mystery.

Can the true killer be unmasked in time to save them?

Will there be anything to celebrate in the coming Yuletide season?

131 pages, Kindle Edition

Published January 31, 2025

2 people are currently reading
62 people want to read

About the author

Dahlia Donovan

49 books778 followers
Dahlia Donovan wrote her first romance series after a crazy dream about shifters and damsels in distress. She prefers irreverent humour and unconventional characters. An autistic and occasional hermit, her life wouldn’t be complete without her husband and her massive collection of books and video games.

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Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews
Profile Image for Ashley.
382 reviews25 followers
January 27, 2025
Tropes:
found family
cozy murder mystery
autistic rep
genderfluid vampire
lgbqt+ reps
family drama

Another good cozy murder mystery by Dahlia Donovan! Taking place a few months after book 2, A Merry Murderous Midwinter picks up around the Yule season. Hyde and Teresa are as cute as ever, Bram is causing mischief, Emrys is being protective, and Pacheco being... nicer? Everything seems to have settled until Hyde's murderous uncle, aunt, and cousin arrive in town.

Hyde's uncle already tried to kill them over the family grimoire. Now, he's in town to.... apologize? Make amends? Something doesn't sound right... and then when he shows up as a pile of ashes on Hyde's doorstep, things take an interesting turn.

Who killed Hyde's uncle?

I enjoyed hanging out with Hyde and Teresa again. I also am excited for the new addition to South Myrddin, and hope to see them in future in books (no spoilers on who!). Also.... I want more information about this previous "romantic entanglement" between Pacheco and Emrys! WHAT! I hope we touch on that in the next book!

Overall, another great cozy book!
Profile Image for Lee ✨✨.
242 reviews10 followers
February 7, 2025
Thank you to hot tree publishing for providing me with an ARC in return for an honest review.

4⭐️

And so Hyde’s bad luck continues in the third book in The Skeleton Crew Paranormal Cozy Series… this time family has turned up in town, but when one of them is mysteriously murdered outside Hyde’s shop another case is opened!

Was I reading this book while experiencing 40 degrees Celsius Summer heat? Yes. Did I feel like cozy Winter vibes throughout this book and want a hot chocolate and a beanie? Also yes. This book really pulls you into the scenery and I was loving it!

As always the vibes were immaculate and I am falling more and more in love with this town and its residents the more I read!

I will definitely be keeping a keen eye out for more books in this series and recommend that people looking for a cozy supernatural murder mystery pick this series up ASAP!
Profile Image for Heidi H..
234 reviews9 followers
January 22, 2025
Hyde and Teresa's newest adventure in the diverse, open-minded village of South Myrddin is right on time.

This Winter Solstice tale once again contains mystery and intrigue. But the underlying message of love and acceptance for all people, as they are, is ever present.

Hyde is a genderfluid (they/she), autistic vampire, in love with Teresa, a latina witch with anxiety. The queer, bipoc, mental health, and disability representations are strong with all characters in this world. And they are all supportive of and care for each other, regardless of their differences. This is a beautiful message we all need right now.

If you enjoy a fun, mysterious, diverse romantasy, with great representation and a supportive message, get this book!

Closed door spice level: 🌶️ 1/5
Profile Image for Kascha.
111 reviews2 followers
January 8, 2025
Ever addicting cozy, quirky and romantic murder mystery.

Welcome back to the Skeleton Crew! Join Hyde Snodgrass, a gender-fluid, autistic vampire, as they navigate a cozy life with their bookshop, cats, and witch girlfriend, Teresa Vega. But when their estranged family arrives and their murderous uncle is found dead outside their shop, Hyde is unwillingly swept into a tangled investigation. With accusations flying in South Myrddin, Hyde must work with a quirky village of allies to uncover the true killer before the Yuletide season is ruined for good. Bring snacks, knitting needles, and a strong brew—you’re going to need them!

I can't help but fall in love with this series more with every new installment. It delivers the perfect blend of cozy, quirky chaos with just the right amount of mystery and murder. From the moment I start reading, I know I'm about to dive into a world of heartwarming friendships, humorous side characters, and unexpected twists. The signature balance of a slight romantic edge and a thrilling whodunit makes it impossible to put down.

There’s a colorful and dynamic cast of side characters. These characters, whether they're bringing a sense of tension or offering delightful comedic relief, add so much life to the narrative. The best part is how the author introduces new faces with each book while still allowing us to savor the familiar ones. I have a few favorites that always make me smile – including one with possessed rocks.

Another thing that keeps me hooked is the evolving mystery. While each book presents its own murder to solve, there’s an overarching storyline that connects them all. Here, we’re slowly peeling back the layers of Hyde’s family history. The tension builds as more secrets are revealed, and the shadow of something sinister lurking in the past makes the mystery even more compelling. These ongoing storylines really enrich the series and keep me coming back to uncover what’s next.

But beyond the mystery, it’s the character growth that really makes this series special. Watching Hyde and Teresa’s relationship blossom is a joy. Their connection feels real and organic, with both characters learning and adapting to each other’s needs and emotions. I can’t help but mention Teresa’s Yule gift to Hyde - it was such a beautiful, thoughtful gesture that really spoke to how well they understand each other.

In conclusion, A Merry Murderous Midwinter is another fantastic entry in a series that I absolutely adore. With its perfect mix of cozy vibes, quirky characters, and an intriguing mystery that unfolds with each book, I can’t wait for the next one!
Profile Image for ~lil maso~.
1,927 reviews49 followers
January 12, 2025
Reviewed by Robyn for Saucy Reviews on Kinky Korner

One of the best aspects of this series is the familial support the people in South Myrddin offer each other, no matter if they are biological or chosen family members. Everyone looks out for each other, and in particular Hyde with their needs. Honestly, when reading this story it feels like a warm hug engulfs you.

I love Teresa and Hyde and their little quirks that make this series so special—well, all of the villagers do really. Hyde is such an interesting character because when they become overwhelmed by too much happening around them, they are usually still aware of Teresa and the need to make sure she is okay, too.

The murder of Magnus, Hyde’s uncle, is a little perplexing because nobody truly stands out as an obvious suspect—apart from Hyde, who nobody believes did the dastardly deed. The twist and the reasoning behind it was a great touch.

Like all of Ms Donovan’s books, the humour element is very cleverly woven into the fabric of the story. So are the terrific descriptions of the characters and their feelings, the season and the scenes.

*ARC received in exchange for an honest review*

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Profile Image for Ash.
72 reviews3 followers
January 31, 2025
“A murder with a side quest of rekindled romance gone wrong?”

Once again Dahlia has written a wonderful new instalment in The Skeleton Crew series.
A Merry Murderous Midwinter can be read as a standalone as this book does reference what happened in the previous two books, however it will spoil those books for you so I'd definitely recommend reading them first.
As far as the plot goes, the story is consistent in following the same murder mystery formula as the previous two books.
Hyde's uncle is found dead in front of their shop, unlucky for Hyde they end up being dragged into the investigation again. The fabulous cast of character's all get involved in trying to solve the mystery.

There are so many touching moments within this story. Hyde is estranged from the family they were born into, understandably they are conflicted on how to feel about their murdered uncle. Teresa shows such empathy towards Hyde and trying to help them process those feelings.

“So, why am I sad? Am I sad?”
“Because family is complicated? And some part of you may always wish they’d treated you like you mattered?”

I know I say this every time but I just adore our two main characters Hyde and Teresa. This latest book really shows the growth in their relationship, it's filled with such love and kindness. Dahlia writes love in a way that I hope everyone in this life gets to experience.
2,293 reviews91 followers
January 12, 2025

I wrote this review for Saucy Reviews on Kinky Korner.
One of the best aspects of this series is the familial support the people in South Myrddin offer each other, no matter if they are biological or chosen family members. Everyone looks out for each other, and in particular Hyde with their needs. Honestly, when reading this story it feels like a warm hug engulfs you.

I love Teresa and Hyde and their little quirks that make this series so special—well, all of the villagers do really. Hyde is such an interesting character because when they become overwhelmed by too much happening around them, they are usually still aware of Teresa and the need to make sure she is okay, too.

The murder of Magnus, Hyde’s uncle, is a little perplexing because nobody truly stands out as an obvious suspect—apart from Hyde, who nobody believes did the dastardly deed. The twist and the reasoning behind it was a great touch.

Like all of Ms Donovan’s books, the humour element is very cleverly woven into the fabric of the story. So are the terrific descriptions of the characters and their feelings, the season and the scenes.
Profile Image for Witchetty Sophie.
258 reviews8 followers
January 5, 2025
“What a wonderfully merry, murderous midwinter we’re about to have.”

Another Skeleton Crew novel by Dahlia Donovan! Say no more because I’m there!

I have adored each book in this series so I was so excited to get my hands on a copy of this instalment.

We are back in the magical picturesque village in the Scottish highlands with a sprinkle of magic and murder on top. Hyde, Teresa and their sidekicks the chaos kitties Mortar and Pestle are back with all the magical characters of Myrddin.

I absolutely adore the way Dahlia Donovan writes and creates this story. They have a wonderful way of making it such an easy read that you get engrossed in.

This was wonderful as always and such a cosy binge read. I highly recommend this book and the whole series.

Ps All the shops have the best name

“Yule should be a time of celebration and reflection without the side of death.”


*Found family. Magical Beings. Paranormal. Mystery. Vampires. Magic. Witches. Druids. Pride Inclusive and rep. Neurodivergent rep. Fae. Cosy Mystery.

Thanks to Hot Trew Publishing for my copy! These are my totally honest and totally awesome opinions.
Profile Image for Heather Duff.
1,835 reviews37 followers
September 6, 2025
Blog | Instagram | Twitter | Facebook

I am smitten with this cozy paranormal series about Hyde and Theresa. Set in a small town, a paranormal haven in the Scottish Highlands.

Hyde is an inquisitive, autistic vampire bookshop owner. They are liked by all the townsfolk, who want to see them happy and safe. Along with the resident witch, and Taco bus owner, Theresa, who is completely smitten with Hyde.

They somehow end up in the middle of yet another murder mystery. This one involves the death of Hyde’s horrendous uncle on the door step of their bookshop.

As they try to focus on the joys of Midwinter and the festivities, they are also forced to confront Hyde’s family and the reasons behind the murder.

Love the whole town, and I secretly hope we’ll get stories for some of the other people in town. (especially a certain druid and vampire pairing!).
Profile Image for Anne Barwell.
Author 23 books108 followers
March 1, 2025
I’m enjoying this series with its quirky characters, cozy setting, and intriguing mystery. I love the relationship between Hyde and Teresa, the friendships amongst the villagers, and how they all look out for each other.

I liked how the overall mystery progressed with this story, and meeting some of Hyde’s family, although I prefer their found/chosen family. I did like their cousin, Phineas, though, and I hope he sticks around.

The various businesses sound wonderful. I love the details, like a seeing-eye crow, and the names of the shops, and how they all go out of their way to cater for everyone.

I also loved the hints of Emrys and Pacheco’s past, and would love more details about that – as I suspect would a lot of the residents of South Myrddin. I want to find out more about Bran too, now he’s back on the scene. Mortar and Pestle are still total scene stealers.

I’m pleased that, although, this mystery has been resolved, we haven’t seen the last of this series.
Profile Image for Kiirstyannee.reads.
502 reviews18 followers
January 27, 2025
Thank you Hot Tree Publishing & Dahlia Donovan for this read!

This book is different to my usual go to, but with the world around causing so much stress, this book provided me the vibes I needed.

It was full of quirky characters, and in this town the people are what make it special. There is wide representation in this book, which is so needed right now.

The mystery itself was cosy in nature and the book full of humor and intrigue as the mystery gets solved.

I binged this book in one sitting and feel this is the perfect book for anyone feeling the stress of the outside world who need the escape with a cosy mystery!
Profile Image for Dana Busenbark.
2,801 reviews29 followers
February 1, 2025
I loved how Hyde was given four pins to help people know what to do or not do on that day and when it came to them. The fact that their friends cared enough was remarkable. What happens when Hyde's aunt, uncle, and cousin appear in town? The interactions with Resa, Hyde, and Rosa were fun to read. My favorite part of the book was when the skeleton crew showed up, and they talked about villainy. As I was reading, I realized how much Dahlia's books mean to me as a Special Education teacher. I get to meet many Neurotypical students, not to mention I have several Neurotypical friends. I love reading her Neurodivergent main character mysteries.
Profile Image for Erin Reads.
112 reviews20 followers
January 20, 2025
I can’t get enough of Hyde and Resa and the entire Myrrdin town. This time, Hyde’s family are back and another murder happens - right on Hyde’s front door. While we rush to find out the killer before someone else turns up… ashy.. we also get the absolute sweetness of Hyde and Resa’s relationship.

These books are such lovely cozy, queer, murder mysteries. Every time a new one releases it just makes me so happy. These books may be fast paced and super quick reads but they’re heartwarming and accepting. If only we all lived in a town like this one. I can’t wait for book 4.
Profile Image for Kathy Wideman.
2,610 reviews43 followers
February 5, 2025
This is the third book in this series. They should be read in order. Hyde's relatives have come to the village. Nothing good can come of this. Then her uncle is found dead in front of her bookshop. No one believes Hyde killed him but that doesn't mean she won't be a part of the investigation. What is going on here? Why did her family really come to town? Does this have to do with the family book? Hyde just wants to be left alone to live her quiet life with her books, cats, and Teresa. Things have been crazy the last few months. These characters are fantastic and I love them. I would love to read more about them. Fantastic job Dahlia. Dahlia is a must read author for me. I love all her books.
Profile Image for Joanna C.
469 reviews2 followers
February 5, 2025
Another cozy mystery! Hyde once again finds themselves in the vicinity of another mysterious death. I wonder if they will ever be able to live a quiet life. Thankfully, they have a great support system around them, and, of course, Teresa! One of the things I love about these stories is the descriptions of the town. It just sounds so cozy when people aren't being murdered.

Thanks to Hot Tree Publishing for the arc!!
Profile Image for Lou Nova.
Author 1 book21 followers
Read
February 27, 2025
Thank you so much Hot Tree Publishing for a review copy!

This series is so delightful and I love every second of every one. It’s such a cozy read, has incredible characters, and storylines that can be read standalone but with easter eggs of past books.

I just wanna be friends with all these characters. I just love them!
Profile Image for Amber Upton.
99 reviews4 followers
January 18, 2025
I love this magical lil community! Great characters & strong relationships, plus all the cozy midwinter vibes
Profile Image for Kat.
307 reviews1 follower
December 22, 2025
This book series continues to be an incredibly anxiety-soothing read. I love the characters and the setting.
Profile Image for Lyndsey Miller.
199 reviews6 followers
February 12, 2025
Another cute easy read. Poor Hyde has more bad luck with unexpected murders and mayhem.

Definitely another murder mystery to solve and Hyde past comes back into play.

If you love found family, autistic representation and calm caring relationships, all among a murder mystery this is definitely for you.

I find this series such a delightful quick easy read!
Profile Image for Amy Elste.
214 reviews
January 29, 2025
I want to live in South Myrddin! I just love this town.
I don't know what Dahlia Donovan puts into these books but they are so addictive!

Hyde & Teressa are so cute and well written.
This book expanded on given us more of a glimpse into Hyde's history and I love the character development still continuing.

I am looking forward to the next boom!
Thank you Hot Tree Publishing for the copy.
Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews

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