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A Christmas Cozy Mystery #8

Nutcracker Conspiracy

Not yet published
Expected 2 Jun 26
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It's the most wonderful time of the year...unless you're on the naughty list.

Candy Cane Hollow is aglow with festive cheer as the town prepares for its beloved Nutcracker Stroll—a magical evening where homes and businesses open their doors to showcase dazzling Nutcracker displays, complete with cinnamon-scented treats and snowflake-topped cocoa.

This year, the event is extra special. It's Holly's first public appearance as Mrs. Claus, and her sister August has poured her heart into organizing the stroll to perfection.

But when the final stop on the tour ends in tragedy, the sugar-dusted sparkle of the evening turns ice-cold. Antique dealer Ambrose Pearce is found dead beside her world-famous Nutcracker collection—and it's clear her death was no accident.

As secrets begin to crack and suspicion falls on the very people Holly was meant to charm, she must juggle small-town politics, sibling tension, and one very suspicious cup of mulled wine.

Can Holly uncover the truth before the killer melts back into the crowd?

Or will this holiday season be remembered for all the wrong reasons?

Audible Audio

Expected publication June 2, 2026

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About the author

Mona Marple

51 books226 followers

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5 stars
132 (58%)
4 stars
66 (29%)
3 stars
23 (10%)
2 stars
3 (1%)
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0 (0%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews
Profile Image for Mairi Swan.
494 reviews36 followers
June 23, 2025
I received a complimentary copy of this book but was not required to leave a review. This is my voluntarily given, honest opinion.
The feeling of this book is cozy and christmasy something I definitely love reading. The writing had a pleasant flow that kept your interest in intact. I would definitely finished in one sitting if life didn't get in the way.
It's obvious that there's a history between the characters but it doesn't prevent or make you feel something lacking. The rest of the series just got in my tbr list as I'm curious to know more about Holly.
A cozy mystery with a dash of romance that keeps your interest till the end.
Profile Image for Jessica.
41 reviews
July 15, 2025
Fantastic!

I received an Advance copy of this book. This review is voluntary and my own opinion.

The latest installment in the Christmas Cozy Mystery series follows Mrs. Claus as she adjusts to being "Mrs. Claus" instead of Dr. Holly. This book had a lot more depth than I remember in previous books in the series. I truly enjoyed following Holly through the mystery and her emotional journey.
Profile Image for Theld.
314 reviews
June 28, 2025
Holly and the Candy Cane Hollow crew are back again in Nutcracker Conspiracy as Christmas is on the horizon and Holly is preparing for her first season in the red coat. Unfortunately, Ambrose Pearce has made one too many enemies in the small town and now Holly must balance her new duties, her desire to return to the clinic, and her frazzled sister with finding the murderer before it's too late.

While the previous installments of this series were like a warm cup of Gilberts hot chocolate, this book is a little darker. Each suspect from the Nutcracker Stroll has a strong motive, and lots of dark, sinister shadow people are popping up all over town. This is definitely the one book so far in the series where you cannot guess the ending until you get there. While it seems Holly is running around in circles for most of the book, she definitely gets there in the end in true Claus fashion and it's a fun ride along the way.

This was a voluntarily given review after receiving an ARC of this novel.
Profile Image for Wulfwyn .
1,172 reviews108 followers
June 29, 2025
This series is definitely one of my favorites. Nutcracker Conspiracy surpassed my expectations. It was, for me, a sensory delight! The author painted, and baked, with words. I was thrown into Christmas mode with the scenes that were formed in my mind. My imagination was unleashed with the sights, sounds, and smells that were so expertly written. Last Christmas is on my reading playlist, and I can't listen to it without thinking of Wiggles. Drinking peppermint hot chocolate and imagining it was made by Gilbert has become a part of my Christma Mysteries reading routine.

I am a reader who gets drawn into the story and goes along with everything without really trying to figure out who did what. Sometimes I can see a twist coming or even guess who, but not because I tried. It happens more because I stumbled on it. That doesn't mean that I can't recognize a difficult mystery to solve, and that describes this mystery. There are a number of suspects who all could have done it. The clues suggested more than one suspect. I was surprised with the reveal. The final pages give us a hint at what comes next, and I am definitely ready to read it.

While this book can be enjoyed on its own, I recommend reading the series. The books are fun and can be read quickly. I believe you will enjoy reading how Holly came to Candy Cane Hollow, became Dr Mrs Claus and solving previous mysteries.

I received an advanced reader e-copy of this book. My review is voluntary and reflects my experience reading the story. I hope you will find it as enjoyable as I did.
Profile Image for Margery.
881 reviews13 followers
June 24, 2025
Holly is adjusting to her new role in town as Mrs. Clause.It is new to her and with an upcoming Christmas stroll where the homes opened up for the stroll each offer foods and different scenes. Even though the stroll is to be a friendly community event, some see it as a competition. These few are arguing for position in the stroll and length of time spent at their venue. While they are trying to get any ones attentions, Holly has a dilemma of her own. As Mrs. Clause, can she still maintain her position at the clinic? The kids and parents miss her.She will have to table that for now because two days before the event,one of the competitive sponsors has been found murdered. Poisoned? How and by whom? Quiet life in Candy Cane Hollow has been replaced with havoc. I totally enjoyed this book, as I do with all of Mona Marple books.
I was given this book as an early read and my review is my way of saying thank you for sharing.
471 reviews6 followers
June 30, 2025
After getting married, Holly is now called Mrs. Claus and has many obligations and expectations. Living in Candy Cane Hollow she is happy to visit all those participating in “The Stroll” a yearly event where all the participants deck out their homes with their best Nutcracker decorations. When a difficult woman wants to change the route of the houses being viewed, Holly’s sister August the event coordinator is firm in saying the route will not be changed. When Nick receives a late-night call, he and Holly head out to the home of one of the participants and are told that a woman is dead and was possibly poisoned. This charming story with Holly, August and Nick is a quick read and entertaining book. This is my honest and voluntary review of an advanced reader copy of this book.
Profile Image for Valerie.
17 reviews
June 30, 2025
I think this book is my favorite in the Candy Can Hollow series. There is great depth and character development in it. Holly Wood, now Mrs. Claus, works her way through town looking for a murderer and while doing it discovers many hidden truths about her friends and neighbors. Holly also discovers much about herself and figures out what will make her feel most fulfilled in not only her role as Mrs. Claus, but her role using her medical skills. Additionally, the former Mrs. Claus has discovered life beyond the responsibilities she had as the Mrs. Claus and is having the time of her life. Finally, Gilbert continues his shenanigans and provides some lighthearted moments. As always, I voluntarily reviewed this book and thoroughly enjoyed it.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Marsha Asquith.
172 reviews
June 22, 2025
I received an ARC copy and this is my voluntarily and honest review.

This is the latest installment of the Christmas Cozy Mystery Series by Mona Marple /Katie Forrest.

This series is so heartwarming and a delight to read. In this book, it's time for the Nutcracker Stroll and the community is getting their houses/displays ready. Though some neighbors are more competitive than others and holds grudges for things long forgotten, there are some things that aren't easily forgotten or forgiven.
Holly is torn between her duties as Mrs Claus and Dr. Holly. She is trying to find her way in her new role while trying to find a murderer.
Mona Marple's written as a way of making you feel like you are right there witnessing everything with the characters. This series is my favorite and this book has made it even better!
I give it 5+ stars
Highly recommend it for anyone who loves Christmas themed cozies!
7 reviews
June 26, 2025
A frosty mystery on a hot summers day, what better timing to enjoy this charming addition to the Christmas Cozy Series! Delving into the world of Nutcrackers for a house tour, Holly Claus finds herself once again doning her sleuthing cap to help Wiggles solve their latest mystery. Not only did I enjoy the mystery and the characters I've grown so fond of, but I enjoyed watching the characters grow into their new roles, and I learned a little bit about Nutcrackers at the same time. Can't wait to see what happens next!
138 reviews1 follower
June 25, 2025
This is book 8 in this series. Holly-Mrs Claus-is trying to find balance in her new role. There is a Nutcracker stroll planned where different residents decorate in with the nutcracker theme. It becomes very competitive and then someone is murdered. The description of the decorations was very well written. We met new characters that were very interesting. It kept me guessing who the killer was all the way up until they were revealed. Very good cozy set in a cute Christmas themed town. This series helps you celebrate Christmas anytime of the year.
Profile Image for Becky .
597 reviews15 followers
June 23, 2025
A great Holiday themed book from Marple that was so fun to read. Holly and August, her sister, in fact the whole town, are excitedly gearing up for The Stroll. Almost a Holiday in its own right, The Stroll has everyone putting up their best displays. This year's theme is Nutcrackers, and it seems to be a hot topic. You have your staid and proper, following the age old Nutcracker Ballet themes, and then you have the others. All is great until someone dies. Now it's up to Holly to help Inspector Wiggles find the culprit before the night of The Nutcracker Stroll.
Fun book!!
Profile Image for Amy.
1,335 reviews
July 1, 2025
Holly is still adjusting to being Mrs. Claus. She is preparing for her first Nutcracker Stroll as Mrs. Claus. Homes are opened up and each offers different scenarios and food. This is supposed to be an enjoyable community event, although several see it as a competition.
When a murder occurs sometime during the stroll, Holly starts helping Wiggles the Sheriff who is on the case. Who poisoned Ambrose and why?
Loved the descriptions of the decorations. Made me feel as if I was there with Holly in Candy Cane Hollow. Gilbert has most definitely become a favorite of mine.
This was a fun read with twists and turns on some very hot days.

I received an ARC prior to publication and decided to voluntarily review it.
1,280 reviews19 followers
July 1, 2025
Nutcracker Conspiracy is a fantastic holiday cozy mystery. it is fun and magical. I love the Christmas town setting and all the characters. The mystery has so many twists and surprises. I love this series and highly recommend it.
Profile Image for Ta'Mara.
46 reviews
December 23, 2025
3.5 while I absolutely adore this series this book felt a little too drawn out, as well as repeated points a few times when it wasn't needed. Also it feels like there has been some character changes that feel very odd for the characters we know.
3 reviews
June 26, 2025
I have finished the book and loved it. Don't want to give anything away but Mrs Claus is an amazing mother in law and gives Holly some sound advice.
Really felt I was part of the story. A must read.
Profile Image for Charmayne.
400 reviews4 followers
June 23, 2025
I enjoyed this edition of life with Nick and Holly in the Christmas village. It was good to see the further development of Holly’s character and her finding a new balance between her old life and her new life and finding herself in there and who she wants to be. There were some unexpected twists and turns and even a few unexpected turns.

I received a complimentary copy of this book, but was not required to leave a review. This is my voluntarily given, honest opinion. And I enjoyed the book
Profile Image for Amanda Reads Cozies.
72 reviews
June 23, 2025
Such a fun, twisty mystery! The story had me completely stumped in the best way—just when I thought I had it figured out, something new would throw me off. I loved the whole vibe, and Gilbert the elf totally stole my heart. Highly recommend if you’re into clever mysteries with a little charm and a lot of surprises!
Profile Image for Denise Reedy jasinski.
16 reviews
June 21, 2025
Great Christmas Mystery. Very vivid description immersion into characters and scenery.
Definitely will not guess the murderer or the reason.
Profile Image for Jeanne Thompson.
48 reviews1 follower
June 24, 2025

A fun, fast read that kept me hooked from start to finish. I can’t wait to dive into the next one by Mona Marple in A Christmas Cozy Mystery Series!
157 reviews2 followers
June 28, 2025
From the moment I met Holly Wood in A Christmas Corpse and travelled with she and Mrs. Claus to Candy Cane Hollow I knew this series would quickly become a favorite. Each and every book in the series is 10-star worthy and Nutcracker Conspiracy does not disappoint!

Once you venture into Candy Cane Hollow you will never want to leave! In addition to the Claus’s and their handsome son Nick, there is Gilbert the house elf who is a force of his own, Chief Wiggles whose favorite Christmas song plays on eternal repeat in his car, a cadre of other elves and reindeer (including one who loves perfume) and of course Holly Wood.

Nutcracker Conspiracy brings you to Candy Cane Hollow just before the annual Nutcracker Stroll where people are treated to a variety of nutcracker displays and interpretations in homes and businesses. This event apparently is highly competitive, as tensions are high early in the story between Ambrose, the nutcracker history purist, Ruby, who interprets the nutcracker in her own way, Zeke with his noir nutcracker theme and the Partridges with their overly dramatic interpretation. Holly’s sister August is in charge of this year’s stroll and faces no end of challenges to her schedule as well as from Ambrose. It comes as no surprise when Ambrose is found murdered in her antique store, but it takes until the end of the story for the culprit to be revealed, and the reason for the murder is not what you would expect!

There are many reasons to love this series, in addition to the very vivid and realistic description of everything in Candy Cane Hollow, and the wonderful characters who have complex, but lovable personalities, there are stories within stories. While trying to solve the mystery, you get wrapped up in someone’s background or profession, relationships between characters, family dramas as well as the magic of Candy Cane Hollow. In Nutcracker Conspiracy you learn a little bit about antiques and the importance of provenance.

If the story, characters and location aren’t enough to pull you in, there are wonderful recipes at the end of Nutcracker Conspiracy provided by Gilbert only as Gilbert can do! These recipes get 10 stars just for entertainment factor!

I have re-read this series twice and anticipate doing so each Christmas. I highly recommend each and every book in the series.

I received a complimentary copy of this book but was not required to leave a review. This is my voluntarily given, honest opinion which I gladly provide.
Profile Image for Gayle B.
380 reviews
July 1, 2025
Back in Candy Cane Hollow, preparations are in full swing for the annual Nutcracker Stroll. The participants will host the villagers coming to their homes and viewing the nutcracker themed displays outside and inside their homes. The competition is fierce. One of Holly's new duties as Mrs. Claus is to check in on the participants and their displays. Her sister August, is now a full time resident with her husband and infant son. She has the job of scheduling the Stroll and participants are arguing about their place in line. As Holly checks in, she is hearing accusations of possible antiquities fraud going back the "the war" regarding the nutcrackers, theft of nutcrackers and general gossip and dislike of each other. When one of the more vocal participants is murdered, Holly kicks in her medical and sleuthing skills to find out what happened. She finds out more than she anticipated. If you are already a fan of Gilbert, the chef for Claus Cottage, you will be glad he is busy and as entertaining as ever.
Although the story is fanciful, it deals with real issues and I like that: antiquities theft, women balancing and work when family life is demanding and relationships. I received a free copy and voluntarily provided a review.
Profile Image for Willow Poteet.
149 reviews1 follower
June 28, 2025
In Candy Cane Hollow, preparations for the annual Nutcracker Stroll are underway and Holly is making her first appearance as Mrs. Claus after marrying Nick Claus.
Her sister, August, is in charge of organizing the whole event and is feeling the strain.
Antique dealer Ambrose Pearce, is difficult to deal with, wanting the Stroll to conform to her exacting standards. So her unpopularity is no surprise.
But, when she is found dead, her world famous Nutcracker collection beside her, Holly finds herself investigating a murder amidst small town politics and many suspects.
This was a thoroughly enjoyable cozy, with wonderful characters and a great plot! The author's descriptions brought the story to life and made me eager for the Christmas season- in June!
I recommend this cozy to all those who love Christmas and mystery.
I received this book as an Advanced Reader Copy and I am happy to leave this voluntary review.
Profile Image for Sarah.
428 reviews3 followers
November 30, 2025
3 1/2 stars

This is such a fun, light hearted, and adorable holiday series. I read the previous books in the series last Christmas season, and am now reading the newest books that were written since then. The characters are sweet, the location is magical, and the plots are fun to read. I knew this series was how I wanted to start my holiday reading this year.

Holly is trying to fit into her new role as Mrs. Claus. But she misses her job as the village doctor. There is little time to think about that though as she attends to the duties of Mrs. Claus. Holly is tasked with visiting all of the homes that are part of the holiday stroll, where there is all sorts of drama brewing. While the comments and accusations flying among the participants are cruel, they don’t appear to be deadly. And yet, one of them is murdered before the big event. Holly doesn’t want to believe anybody in her village is a killer, but somebody is and she puts all her effort into finding out the who and the why.
Profile Image for Jodi Stoffel.
26 reviews
July 3, 2025
I really enjoyed this book. I enjoy this series, but have not yet ready all 7 books leading up to this one. One thing I like about this book is that you don’t need to read the entire series to understand what is going on. The author gives enough backstory for the characters that you get a nice picture of who they are, but not so much information that it weighs the book down. I also really like that it is a quick and easy read. If you don’t have a lot of time, you can still read a book with twists you don’t always see coming, great characters, some chuckles, and excellent story without worrying about not being able to finish it. I have read many books by this author, who is one of my favorites, and have never been disappointed.

*I did receive a complimentary copy of this book, but leaving a review was not required. I am leaving a voluntary and honest review of this book.
Profile Image for Catherine.
486 reviews
June 23, 2025
Holly’s first Nutcracker Stroll as Mrs. Claus is already full of drama. As neighbours rush to have the best Nutcracker themed exhibit on the Stroll, one person, Ambrose Pearce, seems determined to upset the applecart. A rigid traditionalist, she keeps wanting August, Holly’s sister and event planner, to change things to her liking. The other participants are accused of theft as well. When Ambrose is found dead, Holly has only days to find the killer while wrestling with her new role as Mrs. Claus. This story is a bit darker cosy but still full of the wonder of the season and the people we’ve come to love with a heartwarming story of love and togetherness.
This is my honest voluntary opinion of the free book I received
Profile Image for Tari.
3,641 reviews103 followers
September 26, 2025
I love visiting Candy Cane Hollow and imagining Wiggles with his never-ending playing of “Last Christmas” in his car’s CD player. He cracks me up with the excuses he gives for it being on, when everyone knows he just loves belting out along with the song, lol. Holly’s first big event as Mrs. Claus was the Nutcracker Stroll, but it was interrupted by the murder of one of the participants, someone no one agreed with. It seemed everyone had some issues with the deceased making Wiggles’ job even harder.

The showdown was peaceful and a little sad as was the perp, but there was more fun ahead with Nick’s mom making her debut as a comic, which was too cool. And Holly’s favorite elf Gilbert got some amazing news at the end. Can’t wait to read the next book!
Profile Image for Sue Ellen.
1,003 reviews
December 22, 2025
This book seemed a bit darker and a bit more anchored in reality than when the series first started, but I found it more interesting. I like this shift and hope it continues. It had just the right amount of magic and reality. It was good to see Holly grappling with trying to remain true to herself while still accepting the responsibility of being Mrs. Claus. (She seems too young to fill such a huge apron.) The different interpretations of the Nutcracker story were also fun and educational. It made me wish I could go on that tour. The mystery kept me guessing.
1,409 reviews4 followers
July 4, 2025
Candy Cane Hallow is preparing for the Nutcracker Stroll. Different houses are open showing the nutcracker decorations. Some houses have different themes, some incorporate music, others celebrate different versions of the story. August, Holly’s sister is the coordinator and is meticulous in her organization. Holly gets called into to help in her clinic and realizes how much she misses being Dr Holly. Meanwhile there seems to be strong tensions between the hosts of the stroll. Will Holly and Wiggles be able to resolve the issues? Another great trip to Candy Cane Hollow. There’s a lot more depth in this episode. I give this a resounding 5.
148 reviews5 followers
June 25, 2025
Holly was trying to settle in as Mrs Claus, Nick her husband was being supportive. After being a doctor stepping into her new role was not as fulfilling as the old. Holly was kept busy, but something was missing. Now on her schedule was a reception, the holiday stroll being handled by her sister Autumn, and then a murder. Wiggles thee sheriff is on the case along with Holly helping. Can’t let a murder go unsolved during the Christmas season. A good well written cozy. Now waiting on the next book in the series.
129 reviews
June 26, 2025
I received a complimentary copy of this book but was not required to leave a review.
Christmas reading in July, be prepared to fall in love with Christmas all over again. Holly and Nick, are finding their way through holiday traditions, competitions and a mystery. Come join the fun and meet the residents. Added bonus, Gilbert the head ELF, gives us a cooking lesson preparing two of his best recipes!! But not his Mince pie. Enjoy this the 8th book then come back and see where it all started.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews

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