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Death at the Paper Palace: A Tales & Tails Mystery
Becca Gables, an irrepressibly positive young widow, has her hands full. She not only homeschools her three children—Violet, Oliver, and Hazel—but also owns Tales & Tails, a whimsical local bookshop and café. Her days are filled with lesson plans, great literature, and creamy coffee as she educates her children and tries to keep her struggling bookshop afloat.
To earn extra income for Tales & Tails, Becca agrees to cater a cocktail party at the Paper Palace, hosted by Phyllis Grant, the self-proclaimed matriarch of a long line of paper magnates. This party serves as an opportunity for Phyllis to showcase the importance of her family in the community.
Everything seems to be going smoothly until Becca visits the old mansion the following day to collect payment. She is shocked to discover that the hostess has died overnight. What initially appears to be a terrible accident is soon revealed to have a more sinister cause. Guided by her faith, her family and friends, and her insatiable curiosity, Becca peels away the layers of this mystery, leading to a conclusion that will rock their little town of Crystal Run, Wisconsin.
To earn extra income for Tales & Tails, Becca agrees to cater a cocktail party at the Paper Palace, hosted by Phyllis Grant, the self-proclaimed matriarch of a long line of paper magnates. This party serves as an opportunity for Phyllis to showcase the importance of her family in the community.
Everything seems to be going smoothly until Becca visits the old mansion the following day to collect payment. She is shocked to discover that the hostess has died overnight. What initially appears to be a terrible accident is soon revealed to have a more sinister cause. Guided by her faith, her family and friends, and her insatiable curiosity, Becca peels away the layers of this mystery, leading to a conclusion that will rock their little town of Crystal Run, Wisconsin.
332 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 1, 2025
4 people are currently reading
23 people want to read
About the author
Kristin Brellen
2 books56 followersKristin Brellen writes the Tales & Tails Mysteries, a cozy mystery series featuring a homeschool mom, her three children, and their whimsical bookshop. She earned her degree in Elementary Education with a specialization in Language Arts from UW-Eau Claire. For as long as she could remember, Kristin dreamt of creating her own Nancy Drew or Hercule Poirot. Now, thanks to the encouragement and support of her co-creator and by the goodness of God, that dream is being fulfilled in the form of Becca Gables.
Kristin lives in a small Wisconsin town with her husband and four sons. Fueled by cups of creamy coffee, she has the joy of homeschooling her children, teaching English grammar and writing to their homeschool community, leading Women’s Bible Study at church, and, of course, writing. When her fingers aren’t on a keyboard, Kristin enjoys reading, exercising, cooking, baking, and watching Hallmark movies.
Kristin lives in a small Wisconsin town with her husband and four sons. Fueled by cups of creamy coffee, she has the joy of homeschooling her children, teaching English grammar and writing to their homeschool community, leading Women’s Bible Study at church, and, of course, writing. When her fingers aren’t on a keyboard, Kristin enjoys reading, exercising, cooking, baking, and watching Hallmark movies.
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Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews
September 27, 2025
Cozy up on the couch… this warm, family-friendly mystery pulls readers in right away! I felt like part of the family. I wanted to pull up a chair and linger at the bookshop! A great read-aloud for families who love a mystery! You won’t want to put it down!
September 30, 2025
Death at the Paper Palace is a fun and family-friendly murder mystery that is quite a puzzle for the brain. Coupled as a read aloud with a sweet-filled “murder mystery”-themed tea party, my daughters and I enjoyed the whimsical fun, touch of danger, and sharing of theories as to who the culprit was as we read a chapter each night. Kristen Brellen keeps you guessing as to who the murderer could be, with a variety of memorable suspects and lots of intrigue. She has also created entertaining characters, like a sassy aunt and a witty detective, with a few side-story surprises that will make you giggle and bring the whole story to life. This cozy murder mystery is a wonderful, faith-forward, “whodunit” type of fun that is enjoyable for the whole family.
September 23, 2025
Thank you to the authors for the ARC. This book would be a fun family read or also a nice wholesome mystery for a young reader who is ready to take on a longer book! I enjoyed the small town Christmas time bookstore setting and the homeschool family with faith and values.
September 17, 2025
WOW! This book was a delight! Light and fun, its one of the best books I have read in a long time! Thank you to the authors for letting me be part of my first ARC. I don’t normally read murder mysteries but Death at the Paper Palace is a wonderfully written, Christian cozy. From the beginning it draws you into this little community and a bookshop I would love to go to. I loved the art elements. The characters are life-like and I feel like I know the Gables family now. The dialogue is so real and relatable. Reminded me of times with my siblings…Oliver had me laughing out loud with his knife! The mystery portion is well-crafted with surprising depth. It had me guessing till the end, but then, everything made sense. I look forward to their next book! Highly Recommend!
September 19, 2025
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. It was such a refreshing, clean read.
I was also partial to the storyline incorporating a working homeschool mom. It cleverly revealed the delicate balancing act in such a positive way. But also to show the flexibility of homeschooling!
I was also partial to the storyline incorporating a working homeschool mom. It cleverly revealed the delicate balancing act in such a positive way. But also to show the flexibility of homeschooling!
October 1, 2025
Death at the Paper Palace is an outstanding debut novel by Kristin Brellen and Ben Alexander. It is a well-written, delightful read that I look forward to re-reading. As a homeschool mom, I could relate to the family dynamics and intriguing personalities of the Gables children. The dialogue had me frequently smiling and laughing out loud. I just adore the characters in the family and the main character, Becca Gables, is someone I would love to spend the day with- she is so realistic, striving to be the best mom she can be while juggling life and hardship. The well-plotted mystery goes at an enjoyable pace with twists along the way while character development has you longing for more to learn of the endearing Gables family. I appreciate that it is a clean read and extremely well written grammatically. I plan to share this book with friends and even teen girls and I am hoping it will become the first of many!
October 1, 2025
I thoroughly enjoyed the creative writing and touch of reality in the book “Death at the Paper Palace." Right from the beginning you can’t help but develop a connection with the characters in this book. This book goes beyond suspense; it invites you to reflect on parenting, family, and faith along the way. I didn’t homeschool my children, but I found reading about that world fascinating and makes me think that if I were able to go back, I might have wanted to.
Amidst all the suspects, Becca’s past and inquisitive nature assists her in discovering whodunit. I really want to visit the Tales & Tails Coffee Shop and Bookstore and you will too. The mystery was fun and well thought out all the way to the end. Thank you for the ARC. Great read! Highly Recommend!
Amidst all the suspects, Becca’s past and inquisitive nature assists her in discovering whodunit. I really want to visit the Tales & Tails Coffee Shop and Bookstore and you will too. The mystery was fun and well thought out all the way to the end. Thank you for the ARC. Great read! Highly Recommend!
November 27, 2025
Death at the Paper Palace is a charming small-town mystery wrapped in the everyday rhythms of a devoted homeschool family. Becca juggles teaching her children, running the local bookshop-and-café, and even catering on the side — a life bursting with warmth, bustle, and community.
The town itself brims with quirky, lovable characters, the kind of neighbors who make you smile even as you’re suspicious of them.
When Phyllis Grant suddenly dies, Becca’s natural curiosity pulls her straight into a tangle of secrets and hidden motives.
It’s a delightful blend of cozy mystery, family life, and small-town charm—perfect for readers who enjoy gentle suspense woven through heartwarming everyday moments.
The town itself brims with quirky, lovable characters, the kind of neighbors who make you smile even as you’re suspicious of them.
When Phyllis Grant suddenly dies, Becca’s natural curiosity pulls her straight into a tangle of secrets and hidden motives.
It’s a delightful blend of cozy mystery, family life, and small-town charm—perfect for readers who enjoy gentle suspense woven through heartwarming everyday moments.
October 1, 2025
Wholesome, rich, full of truth, goodness and beauty. Author's of Death at the Paper Palace truly draw readers in with their likeable characters, riveting cozy mystery story, and biblically sound teaching. A wonderful read aloud for the entire family.
September 23, 2025
Death at the Paper Palace is a fun Christian mystery that combines suspense with faith. The main character is a homeschooling mom, widow, and book store owner who ends up getting involved with a murder investigation. Like most mysteries, you will have to suspend belief when the main character gets information that no one would ever get in real life. Overall, the book is clean and engaging with several suspects and a few twists. As a fellow homeschool mom, I found the main character (and her kids) very relatable. The story weaves biblical ideas (prayer, church going, kindness to others) seamlessly into the plot without feeling too forced. A perfect book for readers who enjoy a cozy mystery.
September 14, 2025
Thank you to the authors for the ARC! This was such a fun, cozy mystery! As a homeschool mom myself, I loved reading a book centered around a homeschool family. Becca is such a lovely character, and I adored her three children. I want to visit their bookstore and try the crème brûlée latte!
I don’t typically think of murder mysteries as “wholesome” but that’s exactly what this one was. The plot kept me guessing, and I didn’t figure out the killer, although afterward I was like, duh! Which is the best kind in my opinion. Some of the dialogue was a bit cheesy at times, but overall, I really enjoyed it and definitely would recommend!
I don’t typically think of murder mysteries as “wholesome” but that’s exactly what this one was. The plot kept me guessing, and I didn’t figure out the killer, although afterward I was like, duh! Which is the best kind in my opinion. Some of the dialogue was a bit cheesy at times, but overall, I really enjoyed it and definitely would recommend!
November 19, 2025
When I heard Death At The Paper Palace's main character is a homeschool Mom I just HAD to read it!
This cozy mystery is a light yet engaging read that will have you cozying up with a mug of hot chocolate, and then have the urge to vist a art museum. As most of the book takes place over Christmas, it would be great to read that time of year!
This book is a homeschoolers dream! Living above a bookstore that you run as a family, with adorable pets to great customers and a yummy cafe? Yes please! That is not to say life is all sunshine and roses, this IS a murder mystery after all! The MC is also a widow and those emotions do appear. Family is central in this book, it was no nice to read about a family that enjoys being around each other and goes through life together.
I enjoy the mystery genre but I often find the details just to much. Not so in this book, you get all the intrigue without any of the gorey descriptions.
Another thing I appreciated in Death At The Paper Palace is how central church is to the characters lives. It dictates the rhythm of thier week and gives them a center when life goes awry.
This cozy mystery is a light yet engaging read that will have you cozying up with a mug of hot chocolate, and then have the urge to vist a art museum. As most of the book takes place over Christmas, it would be great to read that time of year!
This book is a homeschoolers dream! Living above a bookstore that you run as a family, with adorable pets to great customers and a yummy cafe? Yes please! That is not to say life is all sunshine and roses, this IS a murder mystery after all! The MC is also a widow and those emotions do appear. Family is central in this book, it was no nice to read about a family that enjoys being around each other and goes through life together.
I enjoy the mystery genre but I often find the details just to much. Not so in this book, you get all the intrigue without any of the gorey descriptions.
Another thing I appreciated in Death At The Paper Palace is how central church is to the characters lives. It dictates the rhythm of thier week and gives them a center when life goes awry.
November 27, 2025
3.5 stars
"The bedroom filled with a great pulse of light. Then darkness fell on the body of Phyllis Grant."
It all started with a party. Becca Gables, homeschooling mother of three and owner of a cozy combo of bookstore and bakery cafe, had been invited to cater a prestigious event at the home of one of Crystal Run, Wisconsin's elite townspeople. Known as the Paper Palace, the stately old mansion with historical roots was showing its age, much like its owner. But no one expected the rather unpopular matriarch, Phyllis Grant, to expire that very night. Something wasn't adding up, and Becca knew it.
Continuing to juggle motherhood as a young widow while managing her business through-out the Thanksgiving and Christmas holidays, Becca stays in touch with her Uncle John, a local police captain, about the case, which has become more and more suspicious. Phyllis Grant was not particularly loved within the community, but who might want her dead, and for what reason? It was time for Becca to don her amateur sleuthing hat.
A delightful homespun story full of vivacious characters of all ages who sport equal doses of curiosity and charm while living their lives upon a confident foundation of faith. And yes, the who-dun-it component made the story all that more enjoyable!
"The bedroom filled with a great pulse of light. Then darkness fell on the body of Phyllis Grant."
It all started with a party. Becca Gables, homeschooling mother of three and owner of a cozy combo of bookstore and bakery cafe, had been invited to cater a prestigious event at the home of one of Crystal Run, Wisconsin's elite townspeople. Known as the Paper Palace, the stately old mansion with historical roots was showing its age, much like its owner. But no one expected the rather unpopular matriarch, Phyllis Grant, to expire that very night. Something wasn't adding up, and Becca knew it.
Continuing to juggle motherhood as a young widow while managing her business through-out the Thanksgiving and Christmas holidays, Becca stays in touch with her Uncle John, a local police captain, about the case, which has become more and more suspicious. Phyllis Grant was not particularly loved within the community, but who might want her dead, and for what reason? It was time for Becca to don her amateur sleuthing hat.
A delightful homespun story full of vivacious characters of all ages who sport equal doses of curiosity and charm while living their lives upon a confident foundation of faith. And yes, the who-dun-it component made the story all that more enjoyable!
September 28, 2025
Death at the Paper Palace is a pure delight. It is rich in truth, goodness, and beauty. The writing is creative and witty, respectful and honest, and Biblically sound and encouraging. From the very beginning, the authors draw you in. You’ll want to snuggle up in the cozy coffee shop under all the twinkle lights, join in the art history conversations and playful banter with the children, and be a detective to help solve the murder mystery. In this current world we live in, this book truly is a breath of fresh air. Highly recommended!!
September 18, 2025
This book is an entertaining read! It was a who-dun-it, with a satisfying twist at the end. I enjoyed the character development and found myself wanting to read it often and think about the mystery when I wasn't reading it. Being a homeschool mom myself, I appreciated the positive depiction of a charming homeschool family and the fact that they own a bookstore is icing on the cake. Definitely worth the read!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 22, 2025
Thank you to the authors for the ARC.
Set in the charming town of Crystal Run, WI, this Christian murder mystery is both captivating and heartwarming. The detailed storytelling brings each moment to life, and the close-knit, homeschooling Gabel family makes for a unique and endearing team of amateur sleuths. Their faith, unity, and determination shine as they piece together the truth behind the mystery. A well-paced, inspiring read that balances mystery with strong Christian values.
Set in the charming town of Crystal Run, WI, this Christian murder mystery is both captivating and heartwarming. The detailed storytelling brings each moment to life, and the close-knit, homeschooling Gabel family makes for a unique and endearing team of amateur sleuths. Their faith, unity, and determination shine as they piece together the truth behind the mystery. A well-paced, inspiring read that balances mystery with strong Christian values.
September 17, 2025
“Death at the Paper Palace” by Kristin Brellen & Ben Alexander blends warmth of a small bookstore with tensions of a murder mystery. Faith, art and secrets collide in a suspenseful hunt for the truth. This story keeps readers guessing until the very end and leaves you wanting to know more about the residents of Crystal Run.
September 24, 2025
Death at the Paper Palace was such an entertaining read! I was immediately drawn into the characters, the charming family shop, and the intriguing townspeople I met throughout the story. The writing is lighthearted, faith-filled, and suspenseful—a great mix for your next read. Definitely at the top of my recommendation list!
September 29, 2025
In Death at the Paper Palace, the vivid descriptions pull you straight into the world of Crystal Run. The “Tales and Tails” bookstore feels like the perfect spot to curl up with a cup of coffee and study for hours. Combined with the twisty mystery and well-crafted characters, it makes for an absolutely gripping read.
October 5, 2025
The perfect whodunit for the whole family!
I enjoyed every second of reading this wonderful family-friendly mystery!
It is filled to the brim with all the charming and cozy vibes along with an excellent murder mystery that will have everyone thinking outside the box!
This is the perfect book to either cozy up with on your own or read it along with your kids! Everyone will love it!
I enjoyed every second of reading this wonderful family-friendly mystery!
It is filled to the brim with all the charming and cozy vibes along with an excellent murder mystery that will have everyone thinking outside the box!
This is the perfect book to either cozy up with on your own or read it along with your kids! Everyone will love it!
September 10, 2025
A wonderful Christian cozy mystery and great new series! I enjoyed my time getting to know the Gables, especially Hazel, she has an abundance of personality. I'm looking forward to the next book.
Thank you to the authors for the ARC.
Thank you to the authors for the ARC.
November 18, 2025
Sweet. Cozy. Very small town, family focused mystery. Clean for all ages. As a homeschooler, it felt like sitting right back at the morning time table, learning through life and baking and being together. Very home-y
Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews