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Hometown Hardware Mystery #3
A Zappy Little Christmas
Silver bells ring out, but in the air there’s a feeling of…murder.
Pine Bluff, Oregon resembles a perfect cozy Christmas card. Sparkling Christmas trees line snowy main street. Wreaths, red ribbons, and colored lights adorn every door. Hardware store owner Dawna Carpenter is in a festive mood. She invites her elderly neighbor, Smitty, to join her and daughter April on the Christmas Light Tour, a trolley that takes guests through all the best decorated neighborhoods while they enjoy steaming mugs of hot cocoa and scrumptious treats.
But when Smitty spies one of the homeowners dead—a macabre decoration in an otherwise merry display—the cheerful ride turns somber fast. Dawna notices the ghost of the deceased woman standing next to the display, clearly angry over her recent demise. As snow blankets the valley and her newest employee is implicated in the crime, it’s up to Dawna to find out who’s been naughty and who’s been nice—before it’s lights out for her, too.
Pine Bluff, Oregon resembles a perfect cozy Christmas card. Sparkling Christmas trees line snowy main street. Wreaths, red ribbons, and colored lights adorn every door. Hardware store owner Dawna Carpenter is in a festive mood. She invites her elderly neighbor, Smitty, to join her and daughter April on the Christmas Light Tour, a trolley that takes guests through all the best decorated neighborhoods while they enjoy steaming mugs of hot cocoa and scrumptious treats.
But when Smitty spies one of the homeowners dead—a macabre decoration in an otherwise merry display—the cheerful ride turns somber fast. Dawna notices the ghost of the deceased woman standing next to the display, clearly angry over her recent demise. As snow blankets the valley and her newest employee is implicated in the crime, it’s up to Dawna to find out who’s been naughty and who’s been nice—before it’s lights out for her, too.
251 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 21, 2025
About the author
Paula Charles
6 books88 followersAlways an avid reader, I came to this writing journey later than many. A local genealogical library offered a workshop on writing family stories, so I signed up, wrote a few short stories and was hooked. Cozy mysteries were always my go-to when I needed an escape, so I decided to see if I had what it takes. At the age of 55, I signed my first contract. And a week later, I signed my second. It's never too late!
I grew up in a small, Pacific Northwest town that instilled a lifelong love of small towns and country living, along with a deep love for pie, family history, and the possibility of ghosts. My grandfather was a building contractor and together my grandparents owned and operated a hardware store and lumberyard in my hometown. I spent many hours as a kid tagging along with Grandma in the store. Now I've turned those memories into my first cozy mystery series. Hammers and Homicide will be coming from Crooked Lane Books in January, 2024.
Today, my husband and I live on a small hobby farm in SE Washington. Watching the antics of our silly goats in the barnyard inspired my Zen Goat cozy mystery series. An Escape Goat is written under my pen name of Janna Rollins and will be coming from Level Best Books in March, 2024.
When I'm not writing or reading, I love to bake, garden, and spend time with the grandkids, (who are growing up way to fast!)
I grew up in a small, Pacific Northwest town that instilled a lifelong love of small towns and country living, along with a deep love for pie, family history, and the possibility of ghosts. My grandfather was a building contractor and together my grandparents owned and operated a hardware store and lumberyard in my hometown. I spent many hours as a kid tagging along with Grandma in the store. Now I've turned those memories into my first cozy mystery series. Hammers and Homicide will be coming from Crooked Lane Books in January, 2024.
Today, my husband and I live on a small hobby farm in SE Washington. Watching the antics of our silly goats in the barnyard inspired my Zen Goat cozy mystery series. An Escape Goat is written under my pen name of Janna Rollins and will be coming from Level Best Books in March, 2024.
When I'm not writing or reading, I love to bake, garden, and spend time with the grandkids, (who are growing up way to fast!)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 55 reviews
November 19, 2025
This was such a festive, fun addition to the Hometown Hardware mystery series! Full of holiday atmosphere, wonderful characters, and a mystery to keep to keep readers guessing, I felt like I was in Pine Bluff as the story unfolded. Love the slight paranormal elements and continued character growth and development. Highly recommend this installment and this series to cozy mystery readers everywhere! Easily one of my top five favorite reads of 2025.
August 15, 2025
Loved it! This series just gets better and better. The method of murder was unique and I didn’t figure out the murderer since the suspects were all so good. Great book!
September 23, 2025
I loved this book and I want to visit this town. This is book 3 of the Hometown Hardware series and it might be the best one yet. It's Christmas in Pine Bluff and the town has fun activities, like the tree lighting and a trolley ride to look at lights. When a murder happens (because hey, it's a cozy!), and Dawna's employee is accused, Dawna decides to investigate.
The author does a great job of creating characters that you want to be around. They are solid and fully fleshed and the whole town is filled with warmth. The author is great at writing dialogue and you feel like you're right there in the hardware store or on the trolley with them.
You could read this book out of order, but do yourself a favor and start at book 1 so you don't miss a thing.
Disclosure: We received a free digital ARC of this book. No guarantee of a review or other compensation was made.
The author does a great job of creating characters that you want to be around. They are solid and fully fleshed and the whole town is filled with warmth. The author is great at writing dialogue and you feel like you're right there in the hardware store or on the trolley with them.
You could read this book out of order, but do yourself a favor and start at book 1 so you don't miss a thing.
Disclosure: We received a free digital ARC of this book. No guarantee of a review or other compensation was made.
November 7, 2025
Fantastic. I think my favorite part of this series is that it isn't Suzie homemaker. Its a small town where everyone knows everyone but doesn't mean they like one another. And the arguments/beef doesn't feel over the top and silly. All the characters have pizazz. I especially like that she and her daughter work together to solve these crimes but do bicker in a very cute way. I liked the ending a lot of the mystery, it was really satisfying. This also had the perfect amount of personal stuff in it to make the characters feel real. I hope that the author keeps putting out this fantastic series.
October 24, 2025
This was a fun little mystery. It is the third book in the series and I do recommend starting at one but it could be read out of order.
The MC, Dawna, is very relatable, as are the other characters. I love that. If you’ve ever lived in a small town, you know these people. And the method used was unique and on point with a Christmas themed book. There’s also a hint of the paranormal to make things interesting. As someone who is sure Mom has pulled a couple stunts since her passing, I can appreciate that. It’s comforting to think someone isn’t completely gone from our lives.
The story was very well written and was believable. I like mysteries that make sense when the reveal happens.
I received this book as a free ARC and am leaving this review voluntarily.
The MC, Dawna, is very relatable, as are the other characters. I love that. If you’ve ever lived in a small town, you know these people. And the method used was unique and on point with a Christmas themed book. There’s also a hint of the paranormal to make things interesting. As someone who is sure Mom has pulled a couple stunts since her passing, I can appreciate that. It’s comforting to think someone isn’t completely gone from our lives.
The story was very well written and was believable. I like mysteries that make sense when the reveal happens.
I received this book as a free ARC and am leaving this review voluntarily.
December 9, 2025
Thwarted again! I tried to go to bed about 80 pages from the end last night but then in the dark I started thinking about who the red herrings were that Paula Charles sent me on, I had to come back out to the living room and snatch my book, staying up late to figure out whodunit & I was wrong again!
Get yourself the perfect cozy mystery for this December.
Get yourself the perfect cozy mystery for this December.
November 2, 2025
This fun cozy lit up from the very beginning! It's Christmas in Pine Bluff and what better to kick off the holiday season than a light tour around town on a trolley? Unfortunately, while enjoying the festive lights, Dawna and crew find something very wrong about one of the displays-a dead body. Armed with the knowledge that many people in town had strong motives, Dawna and her daughter, April, make it their mission to help find the killer. With a loveable sleuth, a compelling mystery, interesting characters, a touch of paranormal, and tons of holiday charm, A Zappy Little Christmas is a wonderful addition to the Hometown Hardware series!
October 31, 2025
This is such a fun series. So much happened in this book that loves the story line and characters forward.
This is the third in the series. It has a nice paranormal flair. I love the relationship between Dawna and her daughter, April.
It’s Christmas time in Pine Bluff, OR. Carpenter’s Corner has been delivering Christmas lights and decorations to a less than popular Pine Bluffian. While on a trolley ride, they come across her dead body. The police are looking at Dawna’s employee, Roxy for the murder and Dawna is going to prove her innocence!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This is the third in the series. It has a nice paranormal flair. I love the relationship between Dawna and her daughter, April.
It’s Christmas time in Pine Bluff, OR. Carpenter’s Corner has been delivering Christmas lights and decorations to a less than popular Pine Bluffian. While on a trolley ride, they come across her dead body. The police are looking at Dawna’s employee, Roxy for the murder and Dawna is going to prove her innocence!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
December 5, 2025
This is Book 3 of this series. My favorite so far. Hope there are more to come.
October 21, 2025
A Zappy Little Christmas is a fabulous cozy mystery (with a touch of paranormal) in Paula Charles’ Hometown Hardware series. It is Christmas time in Pine Bluff, OR and there are some fun events happening. Dawna Carpenter owns Carpenter Corner Hardware Store and it is busy. Dawna’s daughter April and new employee Roxy help out at the store and are great sidekicks. Dawna, April and their retired neighbor Smitty are taking the holiday light trolley when they find an unpopular local dead. The locals have some secrets and with the red herrings, this story kept me engaged and guessing. Dawna, April and Smitty are what make this series so awesome! The story has heart, humor, and a little paranormal. Dawna is a widow and her husband’s ghost and her favorite cat’s ghost visit occasionally. It adds a few sentimental moments. I enjoyed every minute! This is a series you don’t want to miss! #AZappyLittleChristmas #HometownHardwareMystery #PaulaCharles
December 12, 2025
This was a great Christmas cozy mystery. I liked the setting, the mystery, and the Christmas happenings like a light tour. This one had a great ending.
September 11, 2025
My Bookish Thoughts
I enjoyed returning to Pine Bluff, Oregon, close to Christmas. The town is gearing up for the holiday, with the lighting of the village Christmas tree and holding a Christmas Light Tour. Various citizens have decorated their homes, and those decorations range from the tasteful to over-the-top. Tickets include a trolley ride to see the lights. Also included are baked goods, hot cocoa, and coffee. The Light Tour is popular way for the people in the village to get into the holiday spirit. Most of them, anyway.
Sheryl Capri has gone overboard with the Christmas decorations, much to the consternation of her neighbor, Marsha Slabinski. Her Christmas cheer was driven away by lights keeping her awake and loud Christmas music fraying her nerves. The feud between the two is well-known, so when Sheryl shows up dead, stuffed down her display’s fireplace, Marsha is a strong suspect.
But the police aren’t as interested in Marsha as they are in Dawna’s newest hardware shop employee, Roxy Dunsmuir. Roxy’s soon to-be-ex-husband has taken up with Sheryl’s daughter, and since Roxy was seen at Sheryl’s house, she’s a top suspect.
Dawna knows Roxy is no murderer. As she and her daughter begin to investigate, they discover many others with reasons to want Sheryl dead.
Dawna is an interesting character. A widow, she still runs the hardware shop she used to run with her husband. But Dawna is more than a small business owner and amateur investigator. Dawna sees ghosts. One is Lilac, a former pet cat. The other is Ben, her husband.
April is her adult daughter. She helps at the hardware store when needed, runs her own business restoring and upcycling furniture out of her mom’s warehouse, and is her mom’s sidekick when it comes to solving murders. There’s a good relationship between the two women. April also knows her father’s ghost is still around.
Smitty is one of my favorite characters. An elderly woman, she lives in the carriage house owned by Dawna. As the story unfolds, Smitty reveals bits and pieces about her past, usually leaving Dawna and April speechless. Smitty is a hoot.
The mystery is well-written with good suspects. The red herrings did their job throwing uncertainty into all my theories. There are plenty of twists and turns as well, effectively keeping me off-balance throughout the novel. The ending works well, tying up all the loose ends in time for a family Christmas celebration.
4/5 stars.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I enjoyed returning to Pine Bluff, Oregon, close to Christmas. The town is gearing up for the holiday, with the lighting of the village Christmas tree and holding a Christmas Light Tour. Various citizens have decorated their homes, and those decorations range from the tasteful to over-the-top. Tickets include a trolley ride to see the lights. Also included are baked goods, hot cocoa, and coffee. The Light Tour is popular way for the people in the village to get into the holiday spirit. Most of them, anyway.
Sheryl Capri has gone overboard with the Christmas decorations, much to the consternation of her neighbor, Marsha Slabinski. Her Christmas cheer was driven away by lights keeping her awake and loud Christmas music fraying her nerves. The feud between the two is well-known, so when Sheryl shows up dead, stuffed down her display’s fireplace, Marsha is a strong suspect.
But the police aren’t as interested in Marsha as they are in Dawna’s newest hardware shop employee, Roxy Dunsmuir. Roxy’s soon to-be-ex-husband has taken up with Sheryl’s daughter, and since Roxy was seen at Sheryl’s house, she’s a top suspect.
Dawna knows Roxy is no murderer. As she and her daughter begin to investigate, they discover many others with reasons to want Sheryl dead.
Dawna is an interesting character. A widow, she still runs the hardware shop she used to run with her husband. But Dawna is more than a small business owner and amateur investigator. Dawna sees ghosts. One is Lilac, a former pet cat. The other is Ben, her husband.
April is her adult daughter. She helps at the hardware store when needed, runs her own business restoring and upcycling furniture out of her mom’s warehouse, and is her mom’s sidekick when it comes to solving murders. There’s a good relationship between the two women. April also knows her father’s ghost is still around.
Smitty is one of my favorite characters. An elderly woman, she lives in the carriage house owned by Dawna. As the story unfolds, Smitty reveals bits and pieces about her past, usually leaving Dawna and April speechless. Smitty is a hoot.
The mystery is well-written with good suspects. The red herrings did their job throwing uncertainty into all my theories. There are plenty of twists and turns as well, effectively keeping me off-balance throughout the novel. The ending works well, tying up all the loose ends in time for a family Christmas celebration.
4/5 stars.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
September 29, 2025
A Zappy Little Christmas is the third book in the Hometown Hardware Mysteries, but don’t worry if you haven’t read the first two—this one stands perfectly on its own!
This cozy Christmas caper has a sprinkle of the paranormal and a whole lot of small-town charm. Our heroine, Dawna Carpenter, is juggling holiday cheer and hardware shop woes after discovering her late husband left behind a hefty loan. As if that’s not enough, her nosy tenant is stirring up drama and gossip like it’s her full-time job.
The mystery kicks off during a festive trolley ride (seriously, can we make this a real thing?) when Dawna, her daughter April, and their delightfully spunky octogenarian friend Smitty discover the murder of the town’s “Christmas lady.”
One of the things I loved? No forced romance for Dawna. April does have a thing going with the police chief, but it’s Dawna and April’s mother-daughter detective duo that really shines. Their bond adds warmth and sparkle to the story, and the hardware store becomes a hub for juicy town gossip and clues.
Smitty totally stole the show for me. She’s got this mysterious past that’s hinted at just enough to keep you curious. And let’s talk about the ghost cat, another favorite. Dawna’s slowly developing the ability to see spirits, and it’s subtle, sweet, and adds a fun twist without going full-on spooky.
The town itself is a holiday postcard come to life. I could practically see the twinkling lights, smell the pine, and hear the chatter from the Christmas-themed classes at the hardware store. It’s the kind of setting that makes you want to grab a mug of cocoa and settle in.
The mystery had me guessing the whole way through. Plenty of clues, a few clever red herrings, and just enough “wait, what?” moments to keep it interesting. There was a bit of convenient info-sharing (why didn’t the neighbor just tell the cops?)
Bottom line: this book is a festive, feel-good whodunit with quirky characters, a dash of ghostly charm, and a lot of heart. Perfect for getting into the holiday spirit!
This cozy Christmas caper has a sprinkle of the paranormal and a whole lot of small-town charm. Our heroine, Dawna Carpenter, is juggling holiday cheer and hardware shop woes after discovering her late husband left behind a hefty loan. As if that’s not enough, her nosy tenant is stirring up drama and gossip like it’s her full-time job.
The mystery kicks off during a festive trolley ride (seriously, can we make this a real thing?) when Dawna, her daughter April, and their delightfully spunky octogenarian friend Smitty discover the murder of the town’s “Christmas lady.”
One of the things I loved? No forced romance for Dawna. April does have a thing going with the police chief, but it’s Dawna and April’s mother-daughter detective duo that really shines. Their bond adds warmth and sparkle to the story, and the hardware store becomes a hub for juicy town gossip and clues.
Smitty totally stole the show for me. She’s got this mysterious past that’s hinted at just enough to keep you curious. And let’s talk about the ghost cat, another favorite. Dawna’s slowly developing the ability to see spirits, and it’s subtle, sweet, and adds a fun twist without going full-on spooky.
The town itself is a holiday postcard come to life. I could practically see the twinkling lights, smell the pine, and hear the chatter from the Christmas-themed classes at the hardware store. It’s the kind of setting that makes you want to grab a mug of cocoa and settle in.
The mystery had me guessing the whole way through. Plenty of clues, a few clever red herrings, and just enough “wait, what?” moments to keep it interesting. There was a bit of convenient info-sharing (why didn’t the neighbor just tell the cops?)
Bottom line: this book is a festive, feel-good whodunit with quirky characters, a dash of ghostly charm, and a lot of heart. Perfect for getting into the holiday spirit!
August 18, 2025
Paula Charles delivers a festive and twisty addition to her Hometown Hardware Mysteries series with A Zappy Little Christmas. From the very first chapter, her conversational, down-to-earth writing style makes the story feel like a warm invitation into Pine Bluff, complete with small-town charm, quirky neighbors, and plenty of holiday spirit gone awry.
Charles’ style is friendly, witty, and often infused with humor. Dialogue feels natural, sprinkled with just enough banter to make characters come alive without slowing the narrative. The author has a knack for painting vivid scenes—whether it’s the glow of a Christmas tree lighting or the eccentric wardrobe of an octogenarian sidekick. These details root the reader in the cozy world while balancing the darker undertones of murder and mystery. Another strength is the balance between character backstory and present action; snippets of personal struggles are woven in seamlessly, so readers grow attached to the sleuth and her circle without info-dumps.
The pacing is brisk without feeling rushed. The opening chapters set the holiday atmosphere and introduce community dynamics before the mystery kicks in, which feels organic and engaging. The shift from cozy small-town festivities to the shocking discovery of a body is smooth, keeping the cozy mystery tone intact while delivering enough suspense to keep readers turning pages. Clues are doled out steadily, with just the right amount of red herrings to keep readers guessing. Importantly, the scenes transition well—there’s no sense of abrupt jumps or lagging sections.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Charles’ style is friendly, witty, and often infused with humor. Dialogue feels natural, sprinkled with just enough banter to make characters come alive without slowing the narrative. The author has a knack for painting vivid scenes—whether it’s the glow of a Christmas tree lighting or the eccentric wardrobe of an octogenarian sidekick. These details root the reader in the cozy world while balancing the darker undertones of murder and mystery. Another strength is the balance between character backstory and present action; snippets of personal struggles are woven in seamlessly, so readers grow attached to the sleuth and her circle without info-dumps.
The pacing is brisk without feeling rushed. The opening chapters set the holiday atmosphere and introduce community dynamics before the mystery kicks in, which feels organic and engaging. The shift from cozy small-town festivities to the shocking discovery of a body is smooth, keeping the cozy mystery tone intact while delivering enough suspense to keep readers turning pages. Clues are doled out steadily, with just the right amount of red herrings to keep readers guessing. Importantly, the scenes transition well—there’s no sense of abrupt jumps or lagging sections.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 28, 2025
This is the 3rd installment in the Hometown Hardware Mystery series. Dawna Carpenter is getting ready for the holidays and the town of Pine Bluff is having a holiday trolley ride with her daughter April and her elderly neighbor Smitty. While on the trolley tour Smitty notices a dead body in the display of the Christmas lady Sheryl. As it turns out Sheryl has several enemies and Dawna and April uncover several dark secrets about her and her daughter. Although you would think with her over the top Christmas display would put her neighbor as a prime suspect the police focus on Dawna’s new employee Roxy. Dawna is convinced Roxy is innocent and along with her daughter April begins an investigation to help the police. J.T. the police chief is also dating April which makes him a little more lenient on some of their investigation. Also, Dawna is dealing with the potential foreclosure of her business because of a loan her husband Bob took out before he died. I like Dawna and her daughter April and how they try and get to the truth. There is also a paranormal element to this story line as Dawna can sometimes see spirits and on the trolley tour, she initially saw Sheryl right before they discover the body. She also sees Bob her husband. Nice Christmas celebration at the end of the story. Looking forward to see what happens next in this series and how Dawna deals with Darlene the women who leases the shop next to Dawna. I also love to hear Smitty’s stories, she is a fun character.
August 20, 2025
A Zappy Little Christmas is a festive delight with a twist of murder, mystery, and a touch of the paranormal. Paula Charles brings holiday charm and small-town warmth to life in Pine Bluff, Oregon—a place that feels like it’s been plucked straight from a cozy Christmas card, complete with twinkling lights, snowy streets, and steaming mugs of cocoa.
Dawna Carpenter, hardware store owner and amateur sleuth, is a wonderfully down-to-earth protagonist. Her holiday spirit is infectious, and her knack for solving mysteries adds just the right amount of intrigue to this seasonal tale. When a cheerful trolley ride turns grim after a dead body is spotted among the decorations, Dawna finds herself in the middle of another whodunit—this time with ghostly help and a personal connection to the suspect.
Charles’ writing is warm, witty, and perfectly paced. The blend of cozy mystery, rural suspense, and a dash of supernatural flair makes this a standout in the genre. The setting is vivid, the characters are endearing, and the mystery keeps you guessing without ever losing its festive charm.
A Zappy Little Christmas is perfect for fans of holiday-themed cozies, amateur sleuths, and stories that mix murder with mistletoe. It’s clever, comforting, and just a little bit spooky—the ideal read for curling up with on a snowy evening.
I received an advance review copy for free from BookSirens, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Dawna Carpenter, hardware store owner and amateur sleuth, is a wonderfully down-to-earth protagonist. Her holiday spirit is infectious, and her knack for solving mysteries adds just the right amount of intrigue to this seasonal tale. When a cheerful trolley ride turns grim after a dead body is spotted among the decorations, Dawna finds herself in the middle of another whodunit—this time with ghostly help and a personal connection to the suspect.
Charles’ writing is warm, witty, and perfectly paced. The blend of cozy mystery, rural suspense, and a dash of supernatural flair makes this a standout in the genre. The setting is vivid, the characters are endearing, and the mystery keeps you guessing without ever losing its festive charm.
A Zappy Little Christmas is perfect for fans of holiday-themed cozies, amateur sleuths, and stories that mix murder with mistletoe. It’s clever, comforting, and just a little bit spooky—the ideal read for curling up with on a snowy evening.
I received an advance review copy for free from BookSirens, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 21, 2025
Pine Bluff, Oregon is opening the holiday season with the lighting of the town’s Christmas tree and hardware store owner Dawna Carpenter is looking forward to a relaxing ride on the trolley with her daughter, April and neighbor, Smitty. However, Smitty spies a dead body in one of the Christmas displays and it’s up to Dawna and April to find the killer.
I enjoyed reading this story. I love the concept of a mother/daughter amateur sleuth team. The characters are well developed and the storyline is solid. The author kept me in suspense until the end. With all the twists and turns, I couldn’t figure out the killer. Charles is also able to give the story a warm, holiday feel despite the murder taking place. Even though this is part of a series, it can be read as a standalone. I have not read the first two books, but I was able to follow the plot with no issues. All in all, I would recommend this book to other cozy mystery readers.
* I was gifted a copy of this book and all opinions expressed in this review are my own.
I enjoyed reading this story. I love the concept of a mother/daughter amateur sleuth team. The characters are well developed and the storyline is solid. The author kept me in suspense until the end. With all the twists and turns, I couldn’t figure out the killer. Charles is also able to give the story a warm, holiday feel despite the murder taking place. Even though this is part of a series, it can be read as a standalone. I have not read the first two books, but I was able to follow the plot with no issues. All in all, I would recommend this book to other cozy mystery readers.
* I was gifted a copy of this book and all opinions expressed in this review are my own.
November 30, 2025
A Zappy Little Christmas is the third book in the Hometown Hardware Mystery Series by Paula Charles. The amateur sleuth is Dawna Carpenter, a sixty-something widow who owns a hardware store in Pine Bluff, Oregon.
This book is part of a series but could be read as a stand alone.
I loved A Zappy Little Christmas! This festive whodunit is the perfect Christmas book to curl up with. The small town setting is warm, the writing is witty, and the mystery lights up the page from start to finish.
I love that Dawna and her daughter April work together to solve the mystery. They have a wonderful relationship and their banter makes the investigation extra fun.
The touch of paranormal (Dawna can see spirits) also gives the story a unique twist. Author Paula Charles does a great job of setting the stage for the mystery and lays out lots of red herrings to keep you guessing until the final reveal.
I am officially a Dawna devotee and can't wait to read the next installment!
Tip: You're going to get hungry for pie, so make sure you have a slice or two ready to go before you start reading!
This book is part of a series but could be read as a stand alone.
I loved A Zappy Little Christmas! This festive whodunit is the perfect Christmas book to curl up with. The small town setting is warm, the writing is witty, and the mystery lights up the page from start to finish.
I love that Dawna and her daughter April work together to solve the mystery. They have a wonderful relationship and their banter makes the investigation extra fun.
The touch of paranormal (Dawna can see spirits) also gives the story a unique twist. Author Paula Charles does a great job of setting the stage for the mystery and lays out lots of red herrings to keep you guessing until the final reveal.
I am officially a Dawna devotee and can't wait to read the next installment!
Tip: You're going to get hungry for pie, so make sure you have a slice or two ready to go before you start reading!
September 16, 2025
"A Zappy Little Christmas" is a delightful cozy mystery set in the charming town of Pine Bluff, Oregon. The story is engaging, well-written, and full of suspense, with a cast of lovable characters.
Dawna is a standout character, and her relatability and likeability make her a joy to read about. The way she feels the presence of her late husband and deceased pet adds a touching element to the story.
The mystery is expertly woven, with plenty of suspects and twists to keep you guessing. I didn't suspect the killer until the very end, which made the reveal satisfying.
The blend of cozy mystery, rural suspense, and supernatural flair makes this book a standout in the genre. The setting is vivid, the characters are endearing, and the mystery is perfectly paced. It's a great choice for fans of holiday-themed cozies, amateur sleuths, and stories that mix murder with mistletoe.
I highly recommend this cozy mystery series to all my friends.
I requested and received an Advanced Readers Copy from Level Best Books and BookSirens. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Dawna is a standout character, and her relatability and likeability make her a joy to read about. The way she feels the presence of her late husband and deceased pet adds a touching element to the story.
The mystery is expertly woven, with plenty of suspects and twists to keep you guessing. I didn't suspect the killer until the very end, which made the reveal satisfying.
The blend of cozy mystery, rural suspense, and supernatural flair makes this book a standout in the genre. The setting is vivid, the characters are endearing, and the mystery is perfectly paced. It's a great choice for fans of holiday-themed cozies, amateur sleuths, and stories that mix murder with mistletoe.
I highly recommend this cozy mystery series to all my friends.
I requested and received an Advanced Readers Copy from Level Best Books and BookSirens. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
August 25, 2025
“A Zappy Little Christmas” is the delightful third book in Paula Charles’ Hometown Hardware Cozy Mystery series. I love this series which features sixty-something Hardware Store owner Dawna Carpenter and her daughter April as the amateur sleuths. Charles does a great job with this - the two make a nice pair – getting along (and sometimes not) as mother and daughters do. The mystery is a good one – Dawna, April, and Dawna’s elderly neighbor Smitty are on a Christmas Light Tour when Smitty spots a murder victim – with just the right amount of suspects to keep Dawna, April, and readers guessing whodunit. Mixed in with the mystery is a nice sense of humor (Smitty is a riot) and just the right amount of paranormal (nothing scary – in fact it made me smile). All in all a great book in a wonderful series!
I received a free copy of this book.
I received a free copy of this book.
August 30, 2025
This series just makes me smile and my heart glow! Pine Bluff, Oregon seems like the perfect place to spend a Christmas, murder and all! When Dawna Carpenter and her daughter April take Dawna's tenant, Smitty on the Christmas Trolley Light Tour and she spots a dead body in the chimney of one yard display, the action does into high gear.
I was pretty surprised when the lights went on for Dawna as she figured out who the killer was and it was not the person at the top of my suspect list! This little town is populated with lots of people I'd like to hang out with and who wouldn't want to have breakfast at The Nutty Goat. Such a great name for a diner.
Make sure you mark October 21 on your calendar and grab this book or better yet, preorder it so it's ready for you to read.
Thanks to Book Siren for the chance to read an advance copy of this in exchange for my honest review.
I was pretty surprised when the lights went on for Dawna as she figured out who the killer was and it was not the person at the top of my suspect list! This little town is populated with lots of people I'd like to hang out with and who wouldn't want to have breakfast at The Nutty Goat. Such a great name for a diner.
Make sure you mark October 21 on your calendar and grab this book or better yet, preorder it so it's ready for you to read.
Thanks to Book Siren for the chance to read an advance copy of this in exchange for my honest review.
September 1, 2025
I love this Christmas cozy mystery by Paula Charles. Pine Bluff, Oregon is decked out for Christmas. Some citizens have gone more wild than others in their decorating. Dawna’s hardware store has been supplying one such resident, Sheryl. Sheryl winds up dead in a way of meanness rivaled by the Grinch.
Don’t worry though, Dawna and April are on the case much to the dismay of JT, the local law and April’s boyfriend.
The murder of course is solved, but what makes this story are all the wonderful Christmas time vibes wrapped into the tale.
The paranormal aspect is increased in Zappy Little Christmas, and I love it!
Dawna’s family comes to town for the holidays, and it is wonderful.
I received an ARC from the author in advance of publication. This is my honest review.
I’m so glad I pre-ordered the book, so I’ll have a chance to savor it again closer to Christmas.
Don’t worry though, Dawna and April are on the case much to the dismay of JT, the local law and April’s boyfriend.
The murder of course is solved, but what makes this story are all the wonderful Christmas time vibes wrapped into the tale.
The paranormal aspect is increased in Zappy Little Christmas, and I love it!
Dawna’s family comes to town for the holidays, and it is wonderful.
I received an ARC from the author in advance of publication. This is my honest review.
I’m so glad I pre-ordered the book, so I’ll have a chance to savor it again closer to Christmas.
December 16, 2025
What should have been an enjoyable evening touring the town’s light display turns into anything but that when Dawna’s octogenarian renter, spots what turns out to be a body in one of the displays. The author does an excellent job of intertwining relationships of townspeople as she liberally sprinkles red herrings.
There continue to be paranormal elements. They are kept to a minimum, used carefully by the author, and do not overshadow the storytelling.
I really like this series. Main characters, Dawna and April, are a great portrayal of a mother and adult daughter who get along well. The small town atmosphere is realistic. It’s expected in cozies that our amateur sleuth will cross the line of legal boundaries while snooping. These two do that but it’s fiction so we’ll gladly roll with it. If I want reality, I’ll read a thriller. I want to be entertained and this series does that.
There continue to be paranormal elements. They are kept to a minimum, used carefully by the author, and do not overshadow the storytelling.
I really like this series. Main characters, Dawna and April, are a great portrayal of a mother and adult daughter who get along well. The small town atmosphere is realistic. It’s expected in cozies that our amateur sleuth will cross the line of legal boundaries while snooping. These two do that but it’s fiction so we’ll gladly roll with it. If I want reality, I’ll read a thriller. I want to be entertained and this series does that.
October 21, 2025
It's Christmas time in the cozy town of Pine Bluff, and folks are decorating trees and houses, there are See the Lights tours of the decorated homes, and a frosting of snow. Perfect for a joyous holiday, right? But there is shocking trouble afoot, Grinches trying to steal everyone's Christmas joy, and a very public discovery of murder! Dawna, owner of the town's fabulous hardware store slips into action along with her daughter April in spite of April's policeman boyfriend warnings not to. Small town grievances among townsfolk get stirred up as gossip, petty insults and past histories balloon like an inflatable Santa. Then chilling evidence is uncovered, so Dawna and April slide into a solution that surprises like a unexpected Christmas gift.
August 18, 2025
I really enjoy this series because it feels like home and comfort. Thanks for that. I noticed the comraderie and partnership in sleuthing between April an Donna. I could feel the palpable love Donna had with all her kids ,but especially with April and the grandkids. I enjoyed the supernatural appearances, because they added depth to an already spooky storyline! Kudos! I wasn't sure of the suspect, but when the kilker was pointed out I was greatly relieved. I became invested in the relationships and outcomes. I voluntarily read a free copy of this book provided by book sirens and am giving an honest review.
October 7, 2025
I look forward to reading books in this series and was happy to receive an ARC from the author!
It's Christmastime and Dawna and the folks in Pine Bluff are feeling festive. Maybe not everyone. If your next door neighbor had an over the top Christmas display, with flashing lights and music, you might feel a bit Grinchy. In this 3rd book in the Hometown Hardware series we get all the Christmas vibes with a sprinkle of murder!
Dawna and her friends are hilarious. I love that she sleuths with her daughter April. Pine Bluff is the most cozy place, with lots of gossip, and lots of folks with questionable behavior!
It's Christmastime and Dawna and the folks in Pine Bluff are feeling festive. Maybe not everyone. If your next door neighbor had an over the top Christmas display, with flashing lights and music, you might feel a bit Grinchy. In this 3rd book in the Hometown Hardware series we get all the Christmas vibes with a sprinkle of murder!
Dawna and her friends are hilarious. I love that she sleuths with her daughter April. Pine Bluff is the most cozy place, with lots of gossip, and lots of folks with questionable behavior!
October 17, 2025
A Zappy Little Christmas is an Excellent story about Dawna a Hardware Store Owner and her daughter April. They go to the Tree Lighting Event at the Square and the Christmas Light Trolley with an elderly neighbour Smitty. While on the Christmas Light Trolley Smitty notice something wrong with one of the displays. So they get off the Trolley and Dawna and April start to investigate the mystery. They call Chief J T Dallas who is also April's boyfriend when they see a body. There are many possible pieces for this puzzle but not all the pieces will fit.
Superb book that I recommend you read.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Superb book that I recommend you read.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
August 29, 2025
A Zappy Little Christmas is an interesting, small town, twisted, Christmas, cozy mystery. Dawna, her daughter April, and her neighbor Smitty are on the Christmas Lights Tour trolley when Smitty notices a dead homeowner - the body acting as a decoration in the over the top display - not exactly a good look for the festive season. When Dawna's employee becomes a suspect, Dawna and April decide to investigate. There are plenty of suspects and motives to keep the duo and the reader guessing. I loved it!
October 7, 2025
A Zappy Little Christmas is a wonderful, twisty, funny tale of murder in Pine Bluffs.
Dawna Carpenter needs to use her ingenuity and years of experience in dealing with people to solve a murder.
The author did an excellent job with the descriptions of the town, keeping the reader firmly rooted in the community, and doling out information on the suspects.
The plot moves quickly, keeping readers guessing who the killer is.
An excellent read! I give this book 5 Stars!
I received an eARC and am voluntarily providing this review.
Dawna Carpenter needs to use her ingenuity and years of experience in dealing with people to solve a murder.
The author did an excellent job with the descriptions of the town, keeping the reader firmly rooted in the community, and doling out information on the suspects.
The plot moves quickly, keeping readers guessing who the killer is.
An excellent read! I give this book 5 Stars!
I received an eARC and am voluntarily providing this review.
December 18, 2025
I love the setting of this series because it takes place around a Hardware store. Dawna owns the hardware store which she took over for her deceased husband. In this particular Holiday mystery during a trolley ride through the town to see the houses decorated. There is the murder of a very difficult person. But who would want to murder her. Turns out lots of people Dawna sets out to investigate when her new employee is accused. I love the mother daughter dynamics in the book. I did not see the murderer.
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