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Little Red Truck Mysteries #3
Mistletoe and Mayhem
A Wildfire Races toward the Hadley Ranch
Breathe in the nostalgia of everything old red truck in book three of a new cozy mystery series.
It’s less than a week until Christmas in Mabank, Texas, and just a few days away from RaeLyn and Mason’s wedding on Hadley ranch. Unfortunately, a wildfire with mysterious origin is rapidly traveling across several counties and headed right for the Hadley acreage. Fire fighters rush to put it out before the family homestead goes up in flames, taking the business and the old red truck with it. Their perfect wedding may be ruined, and RaeLyn and Mason are determined to find the source of the fire.
Breathe in the nostalgia of everything old red truck in book three of a new cozy mystery series.
It’s less than a week until Christmas in Mabank, Texas, and just a few days away from RaeLyn and Mason’s wedding on Hadley ranch. Unfortunately, a wildfire with mysterious origin is rapidly traveling across several counties and headed right for the Hadley acreage. Fire fighters rush to put it out before the family homestead goes up in flames, taking the business and the old red truck with it. Their perfect wedding may be ruined, and RaeLyn and Mason are determined to find the source of the fire.
256 pages, Paperback
Published September 1, 2025
2 people are currently reading
106 people want to read
About the author
Janice Thompson
267 books757 followersWelcome to the wacky, wonderful world of inspirational author Janice Hanna Thompson, where romantic comedy rules the day! I hope you love to laugh, because I make it my goal to tickle your funny bone at every turn in my light-hearted tales.
Whether you’re looking for inspirational romance, quirky cozy mysteries, light-hearted historicals or fun books for younger readers, you will find it here. You will also find an abundance of non-fiction books, guaranteed to ease life’s burdens.
Why do I focus on the light-hearted stuff? Because life is hard! My readers lead busy, chaotic lives and need those special “Calgon, Take Me Away!” moments! Providing “Love, Laughter and Happily Ever Afters” brings me great delight. Lest you think it’s all fluff, think again!
Woven between the lines of each cheerful tale you will find the ultimate love story, one guaranteed to stir your soul and get your heart fluttering. Talk about a real happily ever after! There’s something for everyone on my site, so settle back in your chair, grab a cup of Earl Grey tea, and get ready to discover a light-hearted approach to life!
Whether you’re looking for inspirational romance, quirky cozy mysteries, light-hearted historicals or fun books for younger readers, you will find it here. You will also find an abundance of non-fiction books, guaranteed to ease life’s burdens.
Why do I focus on the light-hearted stuff? Because life is hard! My readers lead busy, chaotic lives and need those special “Calgon, Take Me Away!” moments! Providing “Love, Laughter and Happily Ever Afters” brings me great delight. Lest you think it’s all fluff, think again!
Woven between the lines of each cheerful tale you will find the ultimate love story, one guaranteed to stir your soul and get your heart fluttering. Talk about a real happily ever after! There’s something for everyone on my site, so settle back in your chair, grab a cup of Earl Grey tea, and get ready to discover a light-hearted approach to life!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews
September 5, 2025
4 stars, personally ⭐️ Christian Fiction - Cozy Mystery (non-murder)
About this book:
“A Wildfire Races toward the Hadley Ranch
It’s less than a week until Christmas in Mabank, Texas, and just a few days away from RaeLyn and Mason’s wedding on Hadley ranch. Unfortunately, a wildfire with mysterious origin is rapidly traveling across several counties and headed right for the Hadley acreage. Fire fighters rush to put it out before the family homestead goes up in flames, taking the business and the old red truck with it. Their perfect wedding may be ruined, and RaeLyn and Mason are determined to find the source of the fire.”
Series: Book #3 in “The Little Red Truck Mysteries” series. Book #1 Here! and Book #2 Here!
Spiritual Content- Isaiah 43:1-3 at the dedication & author’s note; Scriptures are read, mentioned, remembered, & quoted; Prayers & Thanking God; Church going & a Christmas Eve service; Witnessing a miracle (*Spoiler* ); Talks about God, praying, & miracles; 'H's are capital when referring to God; RaeLyn calls her best friend a “spiritual powerhouse”; Mentions of God, Jesus, & faiths; Mentions of prayers, praying, a prayer chain, thanking and praising God, & blessings over food; Mentions of Bibles, Bible reading, & a Bible study; Mentions of churches, church going, pastors, services, worship songs, & Sunday school classes; Mentions of blessings & being Blessed; Mentions of miracles & divine intervention; Mentions of Christmas nativities & hymns; A few mentions of those & events in the Bible; A few mentions of a priest; A couple mentions of a revival meeting & people being “slain in the Spirit”; A couple mentions of missions; A mention of a godly couple; A mention of a church denomination; A mention of gaining answers to hard questions one day in Heaven; A mention of a person not being a “religious person” but rethinking that after God saved her sons from a fire; A mention of religious paintings;
*Note: Religious phrases like ‘heavens!’ or ‘heavens, no’ are said four times; RaeLyn’s mother comments on owning something before she got married “a million years ago” and RaeLyn’s father mutters “before dinosaurs roamed the earth, apparently”; Bessie Mae comments on a man not knowing what Blue Bell (ice cream) is being “practically a sin” and she’s going to “baptize” him in homemade vanilla; Mentions of luck & being lucky.
Negative Content- Minor cussing including: a ‘duh’, a ‘dumb’, a ‘stupid’, five ‘my stars’s, and ‘good grief’s; Eye rolling & Sarcasm; Pain, Injuries, & Throwing up (up to semi-detailed); RaeLyn and her family have a nearby wildfire & have to soak down their home and property (they all fear the worst happening, but praying for the best & have many emotions about it all, semi-detailed); All about & many mentions of fires, losing home and property, two young boys being separated from their family in the fire, smoke, & a possible arsonist (up to semi-detailed); Mentions of a car accident, death, & grief (Mason for his father); Mentions of other deaths & grief (including RaeLyn for her grandfather & a woman for her husband); Mentions of injuries & pain; Mentions of nightmares (including of fires); Mentions of divorces & a man who “traded in wives like old cars”; Mentions of lies, lying, & liars; Mentions of gossip & rumors; Mentions of chewing tobacco; A few mentions of throwing up; A few mentions of drinking & AA; A few mentions of lottery tickets & gambling; A few mentions of jealousy; A mention of a woman disappearing on a cruise (implied possible murder by her husband); A mention of a man possibly being an ax murderer or escaped convict; A mention of skin cancer; A mention of cheating; A mention of a child being bitten by a dog & being scarred by it;
*Note: RaeLyn’s mother treats her daughter-in-law coldly because of her and the son eloping without telling anyone (*Spoiler* ); RaeLyn’s father always gives his (adult) kids a lottery ticket in their Christmas stockings (which their mother scolds him for because neither of them believe in gambling); Mentions of stores (Walmart, Brookshire Brothers, & Amazon); Mentions of brand names & items (Blue Bell Ice Cream, Life Savers, Tupperware, Barbie, Radio Flyer wagon, John Deere, Gucci, & FaceTime); Mentions of celebrities/singers & songs (John Wayne, Carmen Miranda, Whitney Houston, Dolly Parton, Ricardo Montalbán, Cesar Romero, Marilyn Monroe, ‘I Will Always Love You’, ‘I Loved Her First’, & ‘Celebration’); A few mentions of car brands; A couple mentions of social media platforms (Facebook & Pinterest); A mention of the Wizard of Oz; A mention of a musical (Annie Get Your Gun); A mention of an Academy Award; A mention of a football team; A mention of buying something being “cheaper than therapy”.
Sexual Content- a fingers-to-lips touch, a nose kiss, a forehead kiss, three cheek kisses, three not-detailed kisses, and twelve barely-above-not-detailed kisses; Remembering kisses (barely-above-not-detailed); Seeing married couples kiss (barely-above-not-detailed); Touches, Embraces, Hand holding, Flutters, & Nearness (barely-above-not-detailed); RaeLyn blushes when others bring up about wedding nights; Towards the end and after their wedding night, RaeLyn’s heart rate quicks at the sight of Mason coming out of the shower in nothing but a towel (no noticing anything else and that’s all that is said in this scene); 1 ‘hottie’; Mentions of wedding nights & honeymoons (all that is said or implied are: the couples blushing, couples needing their privacy, saying “ooh-la-la” about their wedding night, another couple saying that they had a wonderful wedding night and the wife comments on making the mistake of wearing a silk nightie while having silk sheets, RaeLyn is given the advice to make sure she eats at the reception to have energy, RaeLyn says about going on a honeymoon for “a week of R&R” and Mason adds “among other things”, another woman comments about “what’s the point of a weddin’ night if you’re not gonna muss your hair?”, & RaeLyn calls her wedding night “blissful” and going to adopt the other ladies’ phrase “ooh-la-la”); Mentions of married couples kissing (barely-above-not-detailed); Mentions of a handsome man being called “dreamy” and a Casanova; Mentions of boyfriends/girlfriends, dates, & dating; Mentions of blushes; Mentions of crushes; Love, being in love, & the emotions.
-RaeLyn Hadley, age 27
1st person P.O.V. of RaeLyn
256 pages
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Pre Teens- One Star
New Teens- One Star
Early High School Teens- Two Stars
Older High School Teens- Four Stars
My personal Rating- Four Stars
Aww, I’m so sad this series is over, but this book was such a great ending to such a fun trilogy. I’m not usually one for reading Christmas books before November, but I made an exception for this anticipated one!
The mystery took more of a backseat in this book with the preparations of RaeLyn’s wedding and all the planning of it. I really liked the first book in this series, but I would say this was my favorite of the trilogy. It felt so much like a Janice Thompson book—and of course it does, it’s written by her!—but it reminded me of all the elements that I love about her books: faith-filled main characters, Texas charm, small towns, big families, humor, and the characters going through the ups and downs of life. I’ve said before that this series reminds me of the “Brides with Style” trilogy, but this book particularly reminded me of the “Weddings by Bella” series with the main character planning and having her wedding in it.
There was a lot of emotions in this book with the nearby fire, but also all of RaeLyn’s feelings on her upcoming wedding which include joy and excitement, but also realizing that life is fixing to change in a big way and savor the current moments.
I would suggest this book for 16/17+ because of the very vague mentions of wedding nights.
Link to review:
https://booksforchristiangirls.blogsp...
*BFCG may (Read the review to see) recommend this book by this author. It does not mean I recommend all the books by this author.
*I received this book for free from the Publisher (Barbour) for this honest review.
About this book:
“A Wildfire Races toward the Hadley Ranch
It’s less than a week until Christmas in Mabank, Texas, and just a few days away from RaeLyn and Mason’s wedding on Hadley ranch. Unfortunately, a wildfire with mysterious origin is rapidly traveling across several counties and headed right for the Hadley acreage. Fire fighters rush to put it out before the family homestead goes up in flames, taking the business and the old red truck with it. Their perfect wedding may be ruined, and RaeLyn and Mason are determined to find the source of the fire.”
Series: Book #3 in “The Little Red Truck Mysteries” series. Book #1 Here! and Book #2 Here!
Spiritual Content- Isaiah 43:1-3 at the dedication & author’s note; Scriptures are read, mentioned, remembered, & quoted; Prayers & Thanking God; Church going & a Christmas Eve service; Witnessing a miracle (*Spoiler* ); Talks about God, praying, & miracles; 'H's are capital when referring to God; RaeLyn calls her best friend a “spiritual powerhouse”; Mentions of God, Jesus, & faiths; Mentions of prayers, praying, a prayer chain, thanking and praising God, & blessings over food; Mentions of Bibles, Bible reading, & a Bible study; Mentions of churches, church going, pastors, services, worship songs, & Sunday school classes; Mentions of blessings & being Blessed; Mentions of miracles & divine intervention; Mentions of Christmas nativities & hymns; A few mentions of those & events in the Bible; A few mentions of a priest; A couple mentions of a revival meeting & people being “slain in the Spirit”; A couple mentions of missions; A mention of a godly couple; A mention of a church denomination; A mention of gaining answers to hard questions one day in Heaven; A mention of a person not being a “religious person” but rethinking that after God saved her sons from a fire; A mention of religious paintings;
*Note: Religious phrases like ‘heavens!’ or ‘heavens, no’ are said four times; RaeLyn’s mother comments on owning something before she got married “a million years ago” and RaeLyn’s father mutters “before dinosaurs roamed the earth, apparently”; Bessie Mae comments on a man not knowing what Blue Bell (ice cream) is being “practically a sin” and she’s going to “baptize” him in homemade vanilla; Mentions of luck & being lucky.
Negative Content- Minor cussing including: a ‘duh’, a ‘dumb’, a ‘stupid’, five ‘my stars’s, and ‘good grief’s; Eye rolling & Sarcasm; Pain, Injuries, & Throwing up (up to semi-detailed); RaeLyn and her family have a nearby wildfire & have to soak down their home and property (they all fear the worst happening, but praying for the best & have many emotions about it all, semi-detailed); All about & many mentions of fires, losing home and property, two young boys being separated from their family in the fire, smoke, & a possible arsonist (up to semi-detailed); Mentions of a car accident, death, & grief (Mason for his father); Mentions of other deaths & grief (including RaeLyn for her grandfather & a woman for her husband); Mentions of injuries & pain; Mentions of nightmares (including of fires); Mentions of divorces & a man who “traded in wives like old cars”; Mentions of lies, lying, & liars; Mentions of gossip & rumors; Mentions of chewing tobacco; A few mentions of throwing up; A few mentions of drinking & AA; A few mentions of lottery tickets & gambling; A few mentions of jealousy; A mention of a woman disappearing on a cruise (implied possible murder by her husband); A mention of a man possibly being an ax murderer or escaped convict; A mention of skin cancer; A mention of cheating; A mention of a child being bitten by a dog & being scarred by it;
*Note: RaeLyn’s mother treats her daughter-in-law coldly because of her and the son eloping without telling anyone (*Spoiler* ); RaeLyn’s father always gives his (adult) kids a lottery ticket in their Christmas stockings (which their mother scolds him for because neither of them believe in gambling); Mentions of stores (Walmart, Brookshire Brothers, & Amazon); Mentions of brand names & items (Blue Bell Ice Cream, Life Savers, Tupperware, Barbie, Radio Flyer wagon, John Deere, Gucci, & FaceTime); Mentions of celebrities/singers & songs (John Wayne, Carmen Miranda, Whitney Houston, Dolly Parton, Ricardo Montalbán, Cesar Romero, Marilyn Monroe, ‘I Will Always Love You’, ‘I Loved Her First’, & ‘Celebration’); A few mentions of car brands; A couple mentions of social media platforms (Facebook & Pinterest); A mention of the Wizard of Oz; A mention of a musical (Annie Get Your Gun); A mention of an Academy Award; A mention of a football team; A mention of buying something being “cheaper than therapy”.
Sexual Content- a fingers-to-lips touch, a nose kiss, a forehead kiss, three cheek kisses, three not-detailed kisses, and twelve barely-above-not-detailed kisses; Remembering kisses (barely-above-not-detailed); Seeing married couples kiss (barely-above-not-detailed); Touches, Embraces, Hand holding, Flutters, & Nearness (barely-above-not-detailed); RaeLyn blushes when others bring up about wedding nights; Towards the end and after their wedding night, RaeLyn’s heart rate quicks at the sight of Mason coming out of the shower in nothing but a towel (no noticing anything else and that’s all that is said in this scene); 1 ‘hottie’; Mentions of wedding nights & honeymoons (all that is said or implied are: the couples blushing, couples needing their privacy, saying “ooh-la-la” about their wedding night, another couple saying that they had a wonderful wedding night and the wife comments on making the mistake of wearing a silk nightie while having silk sheets, RaeLyn is given the advice to make sure she eats at the reception to have energy, RaeLyn says about going on a honeymoon for “a week of R&R” and Mason adds “among other things”, another woman comments about “what’s the point of a weddin’ night if you’re not gonna muss your hair?”, & RaeLyn calls her wedding night “blissful” and going to adopt the other ladies’ phrase “ooh-la-la”); Mentions of married couples kissing (barely-above-not-detailed); Mentions of a handsome man being called “dreamy” and a Casanova; Mentions of boyfriends/girlfriends, dates, & dating; Mentions of blushes; Mentions of crushes; Love, being in love, & the emotions.
-RaeLyn Hadley, age 27
1st person P.O.V. of RaeLyn
256 pages
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Pre Teens- One Star
New Teens- One Star
Early High School Teens- Two Stars
Older High School Teens- Four Stars
My personal Rating- Four Stars
Aww, I’m so sad this series is over, but this book was such a great ending to such a fun trilogy. I’m not usually one for reading Christmas books before November, but I made an exception for this anticipated one!
The mystery took more of a backseat in this book with the preparations of RaeLyn’s wedding and all the planning of it. I really liked the first book in this series, but I would say this was my favorite of the trilogy. It felt so much like a Janice Thompson book—and of course it does, it’s written by her!—but it reminded me of all the elements that I love about her books: faith-filled main characters, Texas charm, small towns, big families, humor, and the characters going through the ups and downs of life. I’ve said before that this series reminds me of the “Brides with Style” trilogy, but this book particularly reminded me of the “Weddings by Bella” series with the main character planning and having her wedding in it.
There was a lot of emotions in this book with the nearby fire, but also all of RaeLyn’s feelings on her upcoming wedding which include joy and excitement, but also realizing that life is fixing to change in a big way and savor the current moments.
I would suggest this book for 16/17+ because of the very vague mentions of wedding nights.
Link to review:
https://booksforchristiangirls.blogsp...
*BFCG may (Read the review to see) recommend this book by this author. It does not mean I recommend all the books by this author.
*I received this book for free from the Publisher (Barbour) for this honest review.
August 5, 2025
I absolutely loved this book by Janice Thompson. It’s everything I love about reading Christian Fiction. Mistletoe and Mayhem is book three of The Red Truck Mysteries. It’s all about family with a generous portion of mystery to keep readers turning the pages. We get to spend time with a beautiful bride to be the week leading up to her wedding day. Raelyn has her wedding well planned in advance and now things are coming together. Then the unexpected happens and that’s when the Mayhem part of this story takes center stage. Grab yourself a cup of coffee and go to your favorite reading place and let yourself get drawn into this story.
I enjoyed that this book was family oriented. I love mystery also . This book was a hit for this reader. I appreciate that it was inspirational. I loved every Character in the story. After I read the ending and closed the book I felt a warm glow of satisfaction that comes whenever I truly enjoy a book.
I highly recommend this book to readers of Christian fiction, mystery and cozy mystery. I have not read the first two books of this series but I was able to follow along in this book without a problem. I feel it could be read as a standalone but since I enjoyed this book I would like to read the other two books also. This book is scheduled for release on 9/1/25.
I voluntarily read an advanced readers copy of Mistletoe and Mayhem. All thoughts and opinions expressed here in this review are entirely my own.
#MistletoeandMayhem #NetGalley
I enjoyed that this book was family oriented. I love mystery also . This book was a hit for this reader. I appreciate that it was inspirational. I loved every Character in the story. After I read the ending and closed the book I felt a warm glow of satisfaction that comes whenever I truly enjoy a book.
I highly recommend this book to readers of Christian fiction, mystery and cozy mystery. I have not read the first two books of this series but I was able to follow along in this book without a problem. I feel it could be read as a standalone but since I enjoyed this book I would like to read the other two books also. This book is scheduled for release on 9/1/25.
I voluntarily read an advanced readers copy of Mistletoe and Mayhem. All thoughts and opinions expressed here in this review are entirely my own.
#MistletoeandMayhem #NetGalley
June 17, 2025
It was so much fun to be back in Texas with the Hadley Family. Mason and Raelyn are getting ready for their upcoming wedding but they are experiencing all of the weather related issues. I loved how the family and friends came together to celebrate with the couple.
Thanks to netgalley and Barbour Publishing for the arc. The opinions are my own.
Thanks to netgalley and Barbour Publishing for the arc. The opinions are my own.
September 7, 2025
This story takes place at Christmastime. The bulk of the story involves the main character's wedding. I am glad that she wasn't a bridezilla. The mystery involves a fire and a corrupt corporation. This story has a happy ending, but I thought the mystery would end differently.
July 12, 2025
Okay so going in to this book I didn’t know it was the 3rd installment on this series there’s a few things I was left out from previous but it didn’t affect much of the story for me … it was a really nice read and I enjoyed the characters … it did felt a bit flat after the 60/70 ish percent mark … but overall I didn’t find this to be a very nice story not much drama since it was the conclusion of the series I feel maybe more of it was found in books 1&2 … but after finishing this one I will be interested in new series or novellas from this author
It was cozy and full of life almost like a Gilmore girls
Received this book as an ARC through NetGalley so thank you and much thanks to Barbour Publishing
It was cozy and full of life almost like a Gilmore girls
Received this book as an ARC through NetGalley so thank you and much thanks to Barbour Publishing
June 23, 2025
I enjoy Thompson's books--they're comfortable and comforting. This one is no exception.
I did feel (as with other recent releases by the author) it was a tad overwritten, and "explained" gets too much use as a verb throughout--but I still enjoyed the read. Christmas books are fun any time of year!
I received an eARC of the book from the publisher via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
I did feel (as with other recent releases by the author) it was a tad overwritten, and "explained" gets too much use as a verb throughout--but I still enjoyed the read. Christmas books are fun any time of year!
I received an eARC of the book from the publisher via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
June 21, 2025
Loved this story focused on the wedding of Raelyn and Mason. An outdoor wedding the Saturday after Christmas on the farm. A fire gets started before Christmas and is heading straight for the farm. You must read to see what happens. Also you must read about the things Mason is doing for Raelyn for a wedding surprise. This is a GREAT READ
August 1, 2025
This is the third Red Truck Mystery by Janice Thompson. Raelyn and Mason are preparing for their wedding. The week before, a fire broke out and Raelyn wants to know who started the fire or was it caused by a lightning strike? In Mistletoe and Mayhem, the mystery took a backseat to the wedding preparation. As much as I enjoyed the stories surrounding the wedding, I was looking for more cozy mystery. There are surprises and the usual family vibe. I received a free copy from Netgalley. My opinions are my own.
July 14, 2025
This story blends holiday cheer with real emotional moments. I appreciated the honest look at RaeLyn’s nerves as an almost-bride, especially her worries over the weather and the shift into becoming an empty nester. There’s a lot of bustle from prepping for guests to praying the ceremony won’t require thermal blankets but it’s grounded in the kind of community spirit and friendship that gives small-town fiction its heart.
The mystery element surrounding the wildfire adds tension, though it felt a little underdeveloped at times. I found myself wanting more depth to the investigation and the stakes involved. Still, the characters are likable, the setting festive, and the ending hits the right mix of miracle and resolution.
A sweet read for the holiday season, especially if you’re in the mood for a little romance, a touch of mystery, and a lot of heart.
The mystery element surrounding the wildfire adds tension, though it felt a little underdeveloped at times. I found myself wanting more depth to the investigation and the stakes involved. Still, the characters are likable, the setting festive, and the ending hits the right mix of miracle and resolution.
A sweet read for the holiday season, especially if you’re in the mood for a little romance, a touch of mystery, and a lot of heart.
September 2, 2025
Mistletoe and Mayhem is a sweet story set around Christmas time in Texas. It’s the third book in the series, and while it can be read as a standalone, I do think my experience would have been richer if I had read the first two books beforehand, as they likely provide more background on the characters, and set the stage for the events of this story.
This book was very unique in several ways. The first unique element was the entire story takes place over the course of just a few days. With that, new chapters often start mid-day, and are a continuation of the previous chapter, more than providing a transition of time or action. Another interesting choice is how the story introduces a wildfire and mystery fairly early on, which initially feels like the central conflict. But as the book progresses, the heart of the story really focuses on the wedding preparations and time spent with family and friends. At times, it almost felt like two stories - the mystery on one side, and the sweet, slower-paced family and wedding moments on the other. I suspect this balance might feel less disjointed to returning readers who already know the characters.
Things I enjoyed about the book:
-The characters and family were really warm, I would like to go back and read the first 2 books to better get to know the characters
-Raelyn and Mason's relationship was enjoyable and sweet
-Tilly, the red truck, because who doesn't love a vintage red truck?
-The sweet memories and reflections of Raelyn's grandfather
-The wedding was described in beautiful detail and was very sweet
-The last 1/3 of the book felt more enjoyable than the first portion
Things that I didn't enjoy about the book:
-The wildfire story felt underdeveloped & not pivotal to the story
-Many of the same conversation about the wedding took place, it was the focus in most chapters and often felt repetitive
-The first 2/3 of the book moved slowly at some points. Maybe it's that slow southern lifestyle?
-The conclusion of the wildfire mystery was abrupt and moved on from in one sentence
-I would have enjoyed just a bit heavier Christmas vibes...they were there, but brief and subtle
If you enjoy stories that take their time, leaning into sweet conversations and relationships with a cozy small-town feel, this book is a great pick. While it wasn’t a personal favorite of mine, it was an enjoyable read, and I’d be interested in going back to the first two books to see the bigger picture of this series.
⭐️⭐️⭐️💫 (3.5 stars)
A Kindle version of this book was kindly provided to me by NetGalley & Barbour Publishing in exchange for my honest review.
This book was very unique in several ways. The first unique element was the entire story takes place over the course of just a few days. With that, new chapters often start mid-day, and are a continuation of the previous chapter, more than providing a transition of time or action. Another interesting choice is how the story introduces a wildfire and mystery fairly early on, which initially feels like the central conflict. But as the book progresses, the heart of the story really focuses on the wedding preparations and time spent with family and friends. At times, it almost felt like two stories - the mystery on one side, and the sweet, slower-paced family and wedding moments on the other. I suspect this balance might feel less disjointed to returning readers who already know the characters.
Things I enjoyed about the book:
-The characters and family were really warm, I would like to go back and read the first 2 books to better get to know the characters
-Raelyn and Mason's relationship was enjoyable and sweet
-Tilly, the red truck, because who doesn't love a vintage red truck?
-The sweet memories and reflections of Raelyn's grandfather
-The wedding was described in beautiful detail and was very sweet
-The last 1/3 of the book felt more enjoyable than the first portion
Things that I didn't enjoy about the book:
-The wildfire story felt underdeveloped & not pivotal to the story
-Many of the same conversation about the wedding took place, it was the focus in most chapters and often felt repetitive
-The first 2/3 of the book moved slowly at some points. Maybe it's that slow southern lifestyle?
-The conclusion of the wildfire mystery was abrupt and moved on from in one sentence
-I would have enjoyed just a bit heavier Christmas vibes...they were there, but brief and subtle
If you enjoy stories that take their time, leaning into sweet conversations and relationships with a cozy small-town feel, this book is a great pick. While it wasn’t a personal favorite of mine, it was an enjoyable read, and I’d be interested in going back to the first two books to see the bigger picture of this series.
⭐️⭐️⭐️💫 (3.5 stars)
A Kindle version of this book was kindly provided to me by NetGalley & Barbour Publishing in exchange for my honest review.
July 25, 2025
Actual rating: 2.75 ⭐⭐✨💫
In this book (which is the continuation of a series) we meet RayLyn in the week before here winter field wedding. But a fire threatens to ruin all her plans. Who set the fire? Or was it an accident?
I will just start out by saying that I think for the right audience this book might be just what they want. I don't think I am that audience thought.
Let's start with something I really liked though: I think the writing style is easy-going and immersive. I could see everything haopening while reading, which speaks for the skill of the author.
I also did like the set of characters. Since this is the continuation of a series the author didn't waste much time introducing people. But most felt fleshed out with little quirks that made them likable and plenty of backstory that made them more three-dimensional.
Now in to the things that weren't for me:
The main topic if the book is wedding preparations and all the things RayLyn has planned for her big day. She has lengthy conversations with different people about things like the decor, the possibility of bad weather, which wedding cake her aunt will make etc. The mystery (who has started the fire?) is only first mentioned after 1/3 and only ever seems like a side plot. I would have personally much preferred for it to be the other way around. This way it felt like the description of a (admittedly beautiful) wedding and how to pull that off.
And for this I am not the target audience. I am personally not someone who worries about something like her wedding too much (and yes, I am married and have planned a wedding as well), because it isn't worth it to me. So reading hundrets of pages about someone else's detailed spreadsheet to plan the wedding really did exhaust and bore me a bit. But like I said, I think this is just as much a me-thing as it is a book-thing. I just wish the emphasis of this book had been made clear before discovering it mid book. I would not call it a mystery!
One more criticism I have is the somehow stilted way to talk about faith. I am not American, so I might be overly sensitive. But often the spiritual platitudes and side comments felt like they were edited in after the fact to make the book sound more christian.
To sum things up: I really did like ReyLyn, but we're she my friend I would have smack her with something on page 20 and tell her to reevaluate her priorities. I did enjoy this book though and I think for the right audience it might be quite perfect.
I received a copy of this book through NeyGalley in exchange for my honest review 😊
In this book (which is the continuation of a series) we meet RayLyn in the week before here winter field wedding. But a fire threatens to ruin all her plans. Who set the fire? Or was it an accident?
I will just start out by saying that I think for the right audience this book might be just what they want. I don't think I am that audience thought.
Let's start with something I really liked though: I think the writing style is easy-going and immersive. I could see everything haopening while reading, which speaks for the skill of the author.
I also did like the set of characters. Since this is the continuation of a series the author didn't waste much time introducing people. But most felt fleshed out with little quirks that made them likable and plenty of backstory that made them more three-dimensional.
Now in to the things that weren't for me:
The main topic if the book is wedding preparations and all the things RayLyn has planned for her big day. She has lengthy conversations with different people about things like the decor, the possibility of bad weather, which wedding cake her aunt will make etc. The mystery (who has started the fire?) is only first mentioned after 1/3 and only ever seems like a side plot. I would have personally much preferred for it to be the other way around. This way it felt like the description of a (admittedly beautiful) wedding and how to pull that off.
And for this I am not the target audience. I am personally not someone who worries about something like her wedding too much (and yes, I am married and have planned a wedding as well), because it isn't worth it to me. So reading hundrets of pages about someone else's detailed spreadsheet to plan the wedding really did exhaust and bore me a bit. But like I said, I think this is just as much a me-thing as it is a book-thing. I just wish the emphasis of this book had been made clear before discovering it mid book. I would not call it a mystery!
One more criticism I have is the somehow stilted way to talk about faith. I am not American, so I might be overly sensitive. But often the spiritual platitudes and side comments felt like they were edited in after the fact to make the book sound more christian.
To sum things up: I really did like ReyLyn, but we're she my friend I would have smack her with something on page 20 and tell her to reevaluate her priorities. I did enjoy this book though and I think for the right audience it might be quite perfect.
I received a copy of this book through NeyGalley in exchange for my honest review 😊
September 3, 2025
Tilly, the little red truck, has a very special task in this third installment. Raelynn and Mason are about to get married on the family acreage and Tilly will take the bride to meet her groom.
I discovered this third book just as I was reading books 1 & 2. It was a joy to read the three so closely together and spend an extended time with the Hadley family and their Mabank friends.
Here are some things I especially loved about this third book:
🚗Tilly begins the book with a bad carburetor. Mason gets her up and running to get Raelynn where she needs to go during wedding planning. On the wedding day, she will be decorated and put to use.
👨👩👧👦Family can be messy! The Hadley family was made up of four boys and one girl. With all the boys getting married off along with Raelynn, her parents are adjusting to being empty nesters. It's a reality that takes grace to navigate.
🔥A drought has turned the grass and trees around Mabanks into a fire threat. When a fire approaches their property, they pray and get out their sprinklers. Janice Thompson shares a real-life story that inspired this part of the plot.
👰We get to ride along with Raelynn as she works through her wedding spreadsheet. Brings back memories of my own wedding and those of my three sons. Precious family time!🥰
🕵️♂️While this one is a bit lighter on the mystery front, we do get resolution in the end. It was nice to have the focus more on the wedding.
If you are looking for a faith-forward, clean read with a bit of mystery then you will love this series. Thank you to Barbour Publishing and NetGalley for a DRC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
Do not fear, for I have redeemed you; I have summoned you by name; you are mine. When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze. For I am the Lord your God, the Holy One of Israel, your Savior. ~ Isaiah 43:1-3
I discovered this third book just as I was reading books 1 & 2. It was a joy to read the three so closely together and spend an extended time with the Hadley family and their Mabank friends.
Here are some things I especially loved about this third book:
🚗Tilly begins the book with a bad carburetor. Mason gets her up and running to get Raelynn where she needs to go during wedding planning. On the wedding day, she will be decorated and put to use.
👨👩👧👦Family can be messy! The Hadley family was made up of four boys and one girl. With all the boys getting married off along with Raelynn, her parents are adjusting to being empty nesters. It's a reality that takes grace to navigate.
🔥A drought has turned the grass and trees around Mabanks into a fire threat. When a fire approaches their property, they pray and get out their sprinklers. Janice Thompson shares a real-life story that inspired this part of the plot.
👰We get to ride along with Raelynn as she works through her wedding spreadsheet. Brings back memories of my own wedding and those of my three sons. Precious family time!🥰
🕵️♂️While this one is a bit lighter on the mystery front, we do get resolution in the end. It was nice to have the focus more on the wedding.
If you are looking for a faith-forward, clean read with a bit of mystery then you will love this series. Thank you to Barbour Publishing and NetGalley for a DRC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
Do not fear, for I have redeemed you; I have summoned you by name; you are mine. When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze. For I am the Lord your God, the Holy One of Israel, your Savior. ~ Isaiah 43:1-3
August 7, 2025
I'm a huge fan of Janice Thompson's Little Red Truck Mysteries, and I couldn't wait to dive into this newest installment. I was especially looking forward to this one being set during the Christmas season, and that it was focused around Raelyn and Mason's gorgeous wedding. This wonderful cozy definitely did not disappoint, and I'd be hard pressed to pick a favorite of the titles from this series as each has been equally amazing.
The author delivers another delightful cozy mystery with tons of family love, southern shenanigans, and just a small touch of a mystery that keeps readers on their toes guessing right until the end. This story in particular focuses around the changes that occur in families as children grow up, and begin to start the next chapter of their lives, and it was a beautiful illustration of the important of familial bonds and adapting to the new phases of life we might find ourselves in.
As with every Janice Thompson tale, the faith element was spot on, and effortlessly woven throughout the wonderful plot in a way that never felt inauthentic or unrealistic.
I absolutely adored every single thing about this title, and it's without a doubt going to end up being one of my favorite reads of the year. I can only hope that the author plans to give us many more titles in this series as I love these characters so much, and can't wait to continue reading along with them.
I'd definitely recommend this one for anyone looking for a clean, cozy mystery that's faith based and Christmas themed.
Final Rating: 5/5.
Thanks so much to Barbour Fiction for allowing me to read and review this one!
I voluntarily read and reviewed a complimentary advance reader copy of this novel from the publisher (Barbour) via NetGalley. I was not required to give a positive review. All thoughts and opinions are my own, and this is my honest review.
The author delivers another delightful cozy mystery with tons of family love, southern shenanigans, and just a small touch of a mystery that keeps readers on their toes guessing right until the end. This story in particular focuses around the changes that occur in families as children grow up, and begin to start the next chapter of their lives, and it was a beautiful illustration of the important of familial bonds and adapting to the new phases of life we might find ourselves in.
As with every Janice Thompson tale, the faith element was spot on, and effortlessly woven throughout the wonderful plot in a way that never felt inauthentic or unrealistic.
I absolutely adored every single thing about this title, and it's without a doubt going to end up being one of my favorite reads of the year. I can only hope that the author plans to give us many more titles in this series as I love these characters so much, and can't wait to continue reading along with them.
I'd definitely recommend this one for anyone looking for a clean, cozy mystery that's faith based and Christmas themed.
Final Rating: 5/5.
Thanks so much to Barbour Fiction for allowing me to read and review this one!
I voluntarily read and reviewed a complimentary advance reader copy of this novel from the publisher (Barbour) via NetGalley. I was not required to give a positive review. All thoughts and opinions are my own, and this is my honest review.
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September 12, 2025About the Book:
A Wildfire Races toward the Hadley Ranch
Breathe in the nostalgia of everything old red truck in book three of a new cozy mystery series.
It’s less than a week until Christmas in Mabank, Texas, and just a few days away from RaeLyn and Mason’s wedding on Hadley ranch. Unfortunately, a wildfire with mysterious origin is rapidly traveling across several counties and headed right for the Hadley acreage. Fire fighters rush to put it out before the family homestead goes up in flames, taking the business and the old red truck with it. Their perfect wedding may be ruined, and RaeLyn and Mason are determined to find the source of the fire.
My Review:
I imagine that the Midwest always has wildfires or their potential on their mind. It seems in recent years that it happens a lot more than it use to. RaeLyn and Mason have that same concern probably more often than their friends and family. But these days its extra concerning because of their home and livelihood and that their wedding is only days from taking place. While I like the main characters I am always up for a good Christmas fiction story. My absolute favorite!
This story takes place during that time. so while wedding planning is all the buzz this addition to the series the pending wildfire and the cause are causing all kinds of emotions in the main two characters and they get down to the bottom of it pronto--wedding or not.
**Disclosure**This book was sent to me free of charge for my honest review from the publisher. All opinions are my own.
A Wildfire Races toward the Hadley Ranch
Breathe in the nostalgia of everything old red truck in book three of a new cozy mystery series.
It’s less than a week until Christmas in Mabank, Texas, and just a few days away from RaeLyn and Mason’s wedding on Hadley ranch. Unfortunately, a wildfire with mysterious origin is rapidly traveling across several counties and headed right for the Hadley acreage. Fire fighters rush to put it out before the family homestead goes up in flames, taking the business and the old red truck with it. Their perfect wedding may be ruined, and RaeLyn and Mason are determined to find the source of the fire.
My Review:
I imagine that the Midwest always has wildfires or their potential on their mind. It seems in recent years that it happens a lot more than it use to. RaeLyn and Mason have that same concern probably more often than their friends and family. But these days its extra concerning because of their home and livelihood and that their wedding is only days from taking place. While I like the main characters I am always up for a good Christmas fiction story. My absolute favorite!
This story takes place during that time. so while wedding planning is all the buzz this addition to the series the pending wildfire and the cause are causing all kinds of emotions in the main two characters and they get down to the bottom of it pronto--wedding or not.
**Disclosure**This book was sent to me free of charge for my honest review from the publisher. All opinions are my own.
August 5, 2025
** “God has bigger plans for us than we have for ourselves.” **
Janice Thompson continues her Little Red Truck Mysteries series with “Mistletoe and Mayhem,” a story about faith and facing life’s storms.
RaeLyn Hadley’s wedding to Mason Fredericks is less than a week away, when a series of crazy events occur — fires, floods, illnesses and power outages, just to name a few.
Will all that happens ruin her dream of a beautiful outdoor wedding on her family’s beloved property? And will she be able to figure out what, or who, truly started the fire that almost devastated her family’s home?
Thompson again delivers a delightfully cozy story with trials, hopes, inspirations and a little mystery. She creates delightfully adorable characters, including RaeLyn’s lovely Aunt Bessie Mae, cooking and baking phenom. She also fills the story with a number of great themes, like dealing with change; the importance of finding faith; we face many fires, storms and floods throughout life, but God will walk through them with us (Isaiah 43:2); and God is never caught off guard. It also reminds us of the power and loveliness of friendship and family.
Fans of light cozy mysteries and tales from Texas will love “Mistletoe and Mayhem,” which is due out Sept. 1.
Five stars out of five.
Barbour Fiction provided this complimentary copy through NetGalley for my honest, unbiased review.
Janice Thompson continues her Little Red Truck Mysteries series with “Mistletoe and Mayhem,” a story about faith and facing life’s storms.
RaeLyn Hadley’s wedding to Mason Fredericks is less than a week away, when a series of crazy events occur — fires, floods, illnesses and power outages, just to name a few.
Will all that happens ruin her dream of a beautiful outdoor wedding on her family’s beloved property? And will she be able to figure out what, or who, truly started the fire that almost devastated her family’s home?
Thompson again delivers a delightfully cozy story with trials, hopes, inspirations and a little mystery. She creates delightfully adorable characters, including RaeLyn’s lovely Aunt Bessie Mae, cooking and baking phenom. She also fills the story with a number of great themes, like dealing with change; the importance of finding faith; we face many fires, storms and floods throughout life, but God will walk through them with us (Isaiah 43:2); and God is never caught off guard. It also reminds us of the power and loveliness of friendship and family.
Fans of light cozy mysteries and tales from Texas will love “Mistletoe and Mayhem,” which is due out Sept. 1.
Five stars out of five.
Barbour Fiction provided this complimentary copy through NetGalley for my honest, unbiased review.
August 21, 2025
I never hesitate to recommend a book by Janice Thompson. Having read her work for years, I’ve come to appreciate her signature style—clean, uplifting stories filled with lovable and memorable characters. Mistletoe and Mayhem is no exception. Reading it felt like catching up with old friends, wrapped in the warmth of holiday cheer.
Though this book can easily be enjoyed as a standalone, I highly recommend reading the first two in the series as well. Each installment offers its own heartfelt journey, and together they create a rich, cozy tapestry of small-town charm and enduring love.
As Christmas approaches, RaeLynn is preparing for the wedding of her dreams to Mason, set to take place on the family ranch just two days after the holiday. But as with any good story, mayhem ensues—unexpected twists threaten to derail her carefully laid plans. What follows is a delightful blend of romance, humor, and holiday spirit that will leave readers smiling and maybe even reaching for a mug of cocoa.
If you're looking for a feel-good read to brighten your season, Mistletoe and Mayhem delivers with charm and heart.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions and comments are my own.
Though this book can easily be enjoyed as a standalone, I highly recommend reading the first two in the series as well. Each installment offers its own heartfelt journey, and together they create a rich, cozy tapestry of small-town charm and enduring love.
As Christmas approaches, RaeLynn is preparing for the wedding of her dreams to Mason, set to take place on the family ranch just two days after the holiday. But as with any good story, mayhem ensues—unexpected twists threaten to derail her carefully laid plans. What follows is a delightful blend of romance, humor, and holiday spirit that will leave readers smiling and maybe even reaching for a mug of cocoa.
If you're looking for a feel-good read to brighten your season, Mistletoe and Mayhem delivers with charm and heart.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions and comments are my own.
September 2, 2025
Mistletoe and Mayhem by Janice Thompson
Red Truck Mysteries Book 3)
A Wildfire Races toward the Hadley Ranch
Breathe in the nostalgia of everything old red truck in book three of a new cozy mystery series.
It’s less than a week until Christmas in Mabank, Texas, and just a few days away from RaeLyn and Mason’s wedding on Hadley ranch. Unfortunately, a wildfire with mysterious origin is rapidly traveling across several counties and headed right for the Hadley acreage. Fire fighters rush to put it out before the family homestead goes up in flames, taking the business and the old red truck with it. Their perfect wedding may be ruined, and RaeLyn and Mason are determined to find the source of the fire.
This is RaeLyn Hadley and Mason Fredericks's story.
My favorite quote is Dad I've been dreaming of getting married on our property since I was seven."
This story is about family, friends, the wedding and the mystery.
I recommend this book.
Mistletoe and Mayhem by Janice Thompson is a 4 star book.
I am looking forward to reading more books by Janice Thompson .
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced readers copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions shared here in this review are my own.
Red Truck Mysteries Book 3)
A Wildfire Races toward the Hadley Ranch
Breathe in the nostalgia of everything old red truck in book three of a new cozy mystery series.
It’s less than a week until Christmas in Mabank, Texas, and just a few days away from RaeLyn and Mason’s wedding on Hadley ranch. Unfortunately, a wildfire with mysterious origin is rapidly traveling across several counties and headed right for the Hadley acreage. Fire fighters rush to put it out before the family homestead goes up in flames, taking the business and the old red truck with it. Their perfect wedding may be ruined, and RaeLyn and Mason are determined to find the source of the fire.
This is RaeLyn Hadley and Mason Fredericks's story.
My favorite quote is Dad I've been dreaming of getting married on our property since I was seven."
This story is about family, friends, the wedding and the mystery.
I recommend this book.
Mistletoe and Mayhem by Janice Thompson is a 4 star book.
I am looking forward to reading more books by Janice Thompson .
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced readers copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions shared here in this review are my own.
September 2, 2025
I really enjoyed "Mistletoe and Mayhem" by Janice Thompson. It's a light cozy mystery that takes place right around Christmas that mainly focuses on the main character RaeLyn, who is getting married in this one! The mystery surrounds who caused a fire that nearly burnt down her family ranch which is also her wedding venue. This happens a week before her wedding and other happenings have her wondering if she's going to have to change her venue.
This story centers around family, friends and the perfect wedding. This series is so fun and I'm hoping there are more stories past this one in it. Mabank, TX is certainly a town with some mysteries to solve, but great family and friends are still to be found.
This is definitely a series that you will want to read in order. The reader will miss much if they don't read this series in order. It's a series appropriate for ages 16+ and is in the Christian fiction genre. Mystery with romance at the center of it all.
Thank you to Barbour Publishing and Netgalley for an opportunity to read an ARC of this book. All opinions expressed are my own.
This story centers around family, friends and the perfect wedding. This series is so fun and I'm hoping there are more stories past this one in it. Mabank, TX is certainly a town with some mysteries to solve, but great family and friends are still to be found.
This is definitely a series that you will want to read in order. The reader will miss much if they don't read this series in order. It's a series appropriate for ages 16+ and is in the Christian fiction genre. Mystery with romance at the center of it all.
Thank you to Barbour Publishing and Netgalley for an opportunity to read an ARC of this book. All opinions expressed are my own.
September 9, 2025
Written in a casual, conversational tone with lots of interpersonal action, the story is primarily about Rae Lyn, a young woman about to get married and all the excitement as she approaches the big day which is scheduled for a couple days after Christmas. There is a lot of extended family and friends day-to-day and moment-by-moment involvement.
To make matters more complicated and to increase premarital anxiousness, the setting for the wedding is the family's farm; and it is to be held outside - in a field. Then to pile on the troubles..... calamity strikes with a sweeping fire and a and a wind and rain storm that floods the area.
A fun book about some really nice people with lots of family love, friend love, Christmas joys and memories, and lots of good feels throughout.
Other books I've read by Janice Thompson have had a bit of humor to tickle your hearts. I didn't sense as much in mistletoe and Mayhem, though there was much cheer and joy. A nice, pleasant, very clean read.
I was provided a complimentary copy to facilitate a review. Opinions are mine, alone and are freely given.
To make matters more complicated and to increase premarital anxiousness, the setting for the wedding is the family's farm; and it is to be held outside - in a field. Then to pile on the troubles..... calamity strikes with a sweeping fire and a and a wind and rain storm that floods the area.
A fun book about some really nice people with lots of family love, friend love, Christmas joys and memories, and lots of good feels throughout.
Other books I've read by Janice Thompson have had a bit of humor to tickle your hearts. I didn't sense as much in mistletoe and Mayhem, though there was much cheer and joy. A nice, pleasant, very clean read.
I was provided a complimentary copy to facilitate a review. Opinions are mine, alone and are freely given.
September 1, 2025
https://simbasbookreview.com/blog-posts/
Check out my blog post and Simba's newest three paw book! Janice Thompson's Mistletoe and Mayhem is the perfect cozy Christmas read for fans of Hallmark Christmas movies, RaeAnne Thayne and Debbie Macomber. Also, fans of Christian fiction will not want to miss her newest book in the Red Truck Mysteries, as she centers her book around Isaiah 43:2-3. When we go through the floods we will not drown and when we go through the fire we will not be burned.
Fans will fall in love with RaeLyn and Mason as they plan her dream Christmas wedding on the Hadley ranch. When circumstances arise that seem to prevent this wedding, Raelyn clings to the promises found in this verse. When Mason starts to miss texts and meetings, she then becomes worried that Mason will leave her at the altar. What follows is the sweetest surprise, and one readers will not soon forget. You do not want to miss this cozy, Christmas romance.
A special thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for the ARC to read and review. All opinions are my own.
Check out my blog post and Simba's newest three paw book! Janice Thompson's Mistletoe and Mayhem is the perfect cozy Christmas read for fans of Hallmark Christmas movies, RaeAnne Thayne and Debbie Macomber. Also, fans of Christian fiction will not want to miss her newest book in the Red Truck Mysteries, as she centers her book around Isaiah 43:2-3. When we go through the floods we will not drown and when we go through the fire we will not be burned.
Fans will fall in love with RaeLyn and Mason as they plan her dream Christmas wedding on the Hadley ranch. When circumstances arise that seem to prevent this wedding, Raelyn clings to the promises found in this verse. When Mason starts to miss texts and meetings, she then becomes worried that Mason will leave her at the altar. What follows is the sweetest surprise, and one readers will not soon forget. You do not want to miss this cozy, Christmas romance.
A special thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for the ARC to read and review. All opinions are my own.
August 28, 2025
About the book:
This heartwarming holiday read centers around ReaLyn Hadley, who is preparing not only for Christmas, but also for her upcoming wedding. But when a wildfire of mysterious origins ignites and threatens to engulf the Hadley ranch, more than ReaLyn’s wedding plans are at stake.
Joined by her fiancé, Mason, she sets out to uncover the truth behind the fire.
My thoughts:
This sweet Christmas mystery really captured the feeling of a ranch community! I love how ReaLyn’s friends, family, and faith were such an anchor for her in this story.
Mistletoe and Mayhem would be a great choice if you are looking for a light-hearted holiday read with a sprinkle of mystery and drama, without too much suspense. It would be the perfect book to enjoy with a cup of peppermint tea and freshly baked Christmas cookies!
I received an advance reader copy of this book from the publisher. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
This heartwarming holiday read centers around ReaLyn Hadley, who is preparing not only for Christmas, but also for her upcoming wedding. But when a wildfire of mysterious origins ignites and threatens to engulf the Hadley ranch, more than ReaLyn’s wedding plans are at stake.
Joined by her fiancé, Mason, she sets out to uncover the truth behind the fire.
My thoughts:
This sweet Christmas mystery really captured the feeling of a ranch community! I love how ReaLyn’s friends, family, and faith were such an anchor for her in this story.
Mistletoe and Mayhem would be a great choice if you are looking for a light-hearted holiday read with a sprinkle of mystery and drama, without too much suspense. It would be the perfect book to enjoy with a cup of peppermint tea and freshly baked Christmas cookies!
I received an advance reader copy of this book from the publisher. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
August 28, 2025
I enjoyed this third installment of the Red Truck Mysteries. It’s always a joy to take a trip to Mabank, Texas, and see what the Hadley family is up to these days.
It’s wedding time for RaeLynn and Mason, but a wildfire threatens not only their upcoming nuptials but the Hadley family ranch as well. Questions swirl about whether the fire was naturally occurring or man-made.
This was a lighter cozy mystery that focused more on family dynamics and wedding planning. So while it was slower paced, it was still an enjoyable and comforting read.
It always feels like coming home when I pick up a Janice Thompson book. And the Hadleys feel like they’d fit right into my own family. If you’re looking for a lighter cozy mystery with small-town vibes and down-home characters, you’ll enjoy this series.
I received a copy of this book and voluntarily reviewed it. All thoughts and comments are my honest opinion.
It’s wedding time for RaeLynn and Mason, but a wildfire threatens not only their upcoming nuptials but the Hadley family ranch as well. Questions swirl about whether the fire was naturally occurring or man-made.
This was a lighter cozy mystery that focused more on family dynamics and wedding planning. So while it was slower paced, it was still an enjoyable and comforting read.
It always feels like coming home when I pick up a Janice Thompson book. And the Hadleys feel like they’d fit right into my own family. If you’re looking for a lighter cozy mystery with small-town vibes and down-home characters, you’ll enjoy this series.
I received a copy of this book and voluntarily reviewed it. All thoughts and comments are my honest opinion.
August 9, 2025
I haven't read the first two books in the series, but I didn't have any trouble following book 3. I was mesmerized by the Hadley family. Their close ties to each other, their family traditions, and most of all, the love and playful banter between them.
There was a lot more going on than RaeLyn's wedding. There are a lot of mysterious happenings, family surprises, and danger. I loved how the family came together in times of personal upsets. Towards the end, the family became like real friends. I was engaged in the story.
There were times when the storyline made me laugh, other times when I was almost in tears, and then times that I was filled with joy in the knowledge of how God works—an excellent read, highly recommended.
I received a complimentary copy from the author; a positive review is not required. All opinions are my own.
There was a lot more going on than RaeLyn's wedding. There are a lot of mysterious happenings, family surprises, and danger. I loved how the family came together in times of personal upsets. Towards the end, the family became like real friends. I was engaged in the story.
There were times when the storyline made me laugh, other times when I was almost in tears, and then times that I was filled with joy in the knowledge of how God works—an excellent read, highly recommended.
I received a complimentary copy from the author; a positive review is not required. All opinions are my own.
June 20, 2025
I loved being back with the Hadley family, and heading towards Raelyn and Mason's wedding, and all the preparations! We are also close to Christmas, and all the fun and celebrations that go with the holiday.
We are given the family dynamics of becoming empty nesters, and the weather, actually dangerous drought.
Raelyn is worried about the weather and her dream of having an outdoor wedding, and we are busy with all the prep that is going on! Will they need thermal blankets?
Then there is the mystery of the fire? Miracles, and loving friends that are there for each other.
Things don't always run smoothly, but it was a joy to be in Maybank, Texas!
I received this book through Net Galley and the Publisher Barbour, and was not required to give a positive review.
We are given the family dynamics of becoming empty nesters, and the weather, actually dangerous drought.
Raelyn is worried about the weather and her dream of having an outdoor wedding, and we are busy with all the prep that is going on! Will they need thermal blankets?
Then there is the mystery of the fire? Miracles, and loving friends that are there for each other.
Things don't always run smoothly, but it was a joy to be in Maybank, Texas!
I received this book through Net Galley and the Publisher Barbour, and was not required to give a positive review.
July 28, 2025
What a fun mystery/rom-com. Janice Thompson hit it out of the park with "Mistletoe and Mayhem." You gotta love Aunt Bessie. And RayLyn and Mason. Planning a wedding for two days after Christmas. An outdoor wedding at that. However, RayLyn's praying for her dream wedding. As fate would have it, many events occur threatening her plans. A wildfire almost takes out her family home and leaves a mystery about the origins. Will RayLyn's wedding happen as her spreadsheet states or will her plans go awry? Many times throughout RayLyn , her family, and friends pray for God's intervention and their faith is strong in His divine plan.
Releases Sept. 1st. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Releases Sept. 1st. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
September 1, 2025
This is the third and final book in the Red Truck Mysteries series, and it just feels so nice to be back with Raelyn and Mason. This time, we’re diving into wedding prep and Christmas.
Like the first two books, it’s packed with family, love, friendship, and a little sprinkle of suspense. The values are solid, the writing flows well, and the story keeps you engaged without going overboard. I’ve really enjoyed reading Thompson’s books; they’re cozy, heartwarming, and just what I need when I want something feel-good. I’ll definitely be picking up more of her work.
If you’re in the mood for a charming, easygoing read, this one’s a great pick.
Thank you to Netgalley, the author and the publisher for providing me with an advance copy of this book to review.
Like the first two books, it’s packed with family, love, friendship, and a little sprinkle of suspense. The values are solid, the writing flows well, and the story keeps you engaged without going overboard. I’ve really enjoyed reading Thompson’s books; they’re cozy, heartwarming, and just what I need when I want something feel-good. I’ll definitely be picking up more of her work.
If you’re in the mood for a charming, easygoing read, this one’s a great pick.
Thank you to Netgalley, the author and the publisher for providing me with an advance copy of this book to review.
November 7, 2025
Book 3 of the Little Red Truck Mysteries, and I really liked it. The mystery is about a fire and we are mostly focused on a special wedding being planned. It is around Christmas time so it’s a great winter read.
We follow the same characters from the last 2 books. We can really see the development of these characters and big changes that have occurred throughout.
I love the family dynamics, the friendships, and the love stories. It’s very wholesome and lighthearted, and a great read for anyone wanting a positive mental getaway. Again there is lots of faith content spread throughout.
I would recommend this series for anyone looking for a happy and easy read.
We follow the same characters from the last 2 books. We can really see the development of these characters and big changes that have occurred throughout.
I love the family dynamics, the friendships, and the love stories. It’s very wholesome and lighthearted, and a great read for anyone wanting a positive mental getaway. Again there is lots of faith content spread throughout.
I would recommend this series for anyone looking for a happy and easy read.
July 31, 2025
This has been such a fun series with characters that have become very real to me. I am so glad Raelyn and her friends and family found their happily ever afters, through good times and bad. I hate to leave them all behind now. It’s been a great ride. Mystery, love, a Texas Christmas with Jesus at the center, and Papaw’s cute little red pickup truck, it’s all here. I absolutely loved it all! Don’t miss out!
*I received a complimentary copy of this e-book from Barbour Publishing through NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
*I received a complimentary copy of this e-book from Barbour Publishing through NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
August 20, 2025
I love this book! The characters are so fun I want them to be real. This story has so much to love about it from romance, family, dreams that come true, to how God hears and answers prayers. I love the mystery that is embedded into the story. No, gruesome crime but crimes like Arson or stealing, and who is behind it. The Hadley family with their traditions and love for one another is my favorite theme in this series. It takes me back to my childhood and how family life is best lived. This book is entertaining from beginning to end, I couldn’t put it down!
July 5, 2025
Loved reading the inspirational and entertaining story. As Raelyn and Mason get ready for their wedding, a fire rages out of control and almost burns Raelyn's family's farm but miraculously stops right before hitting the property line. Read the highly recommended, wonderfully written, and a must read riveting story.
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