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Do You See What I See?
From New York Times bestselling author Peter Swanson comes a fantastically creepy holiday story of a writer tasked with helping a famous novelist finish his next book. But when two dead bodies turn up at the seaside manor, he must uncover the killer before the clock ticks down to Christmas Day.
When author Nicholas Child is dropped by his publisher, his agent sends him to spend the holidays at the Cape Cod mansion of her other client, Marco Tavares. Marco needs to finish the long-overdue follow-up to his bestselling novel, and Nicholas is going to help him.
But when Nicholas arrives at Marco’s sprawling seaside estate, which is decked out in twinkling lights and a towering Christmas tree, he finds himself in the middle of a gathering where holiday cheer is in short supply—and every visitor seems to have a motive to kill their host.
Along with Marco and his wife Maeve—who are currently sleeping in separate rooms—also present is Marco’s oddball sister, near-silent grandmother, ex-girlfriend and her jealous husband, and long-suffering best friend, Billy Sousa. The most intriguing guest is named James Beers, another writer who believes that Marco’s bestselling novel was based on one of his ideas.
As Christmas Day approaches, a single boozy night culminates in two corpses, and Nicholas becomes convinced that the whole thing was a setup from the start.
With his signature slow burn and deft exploration into the dark corners of the human psyche, Swanson’s latest mystery is a master class in twists and thrills. Dive into the story here, and find Can Nicholas uncover the truth before the killer strikes again?
When author Nicholas Child is dropped by his publisher, his agent sends him to spend the holidays at the Cape Cod mansion of her other client, Marco Tavares. Marco needs to finish the long-overdue follow-up to his bestselling novel, and Nicholas is going to help him.
But when Nicholas arrives at Marco’s sprawling seaside estate, which is decked out in twinkling lights and a towering Christmas tree, he finds himself in the middle of a gathering where holiday cheer is in short supply—and every visitor seems to have a motive to kill their host.
Along with Marco and his wife Maeve—who are currently sleeping in separate rooms—also present is Marco’s oddball sister, near-silent grandmother, ex-girlfriend and her jealous husband, and long-suffering best friend, Billy Sousa. The most intriguing guest is named James Beers, another writer who believes that Marco’s bestselling novel was based on one of his ideas.
As Christmas Day approaches, a single boozy night culminates in two corpses, and Nicholas becomes convinced that the whole thing was a setup from the start.
With his signature slow burn and deft exploration into the dark corners of the human psyche, Swanson’s latest mystery is a master class in twists and thrills. Dive into the story here, and find Can Nicholas uncover the truth before the killer strikes again?
128 pages, Hardcover
First published October 6, 2026
About the author
Peter Swanson
22 books13.6k followersPeter Swanson is the author of six novels including The Kind Worth Killing, winner of the New England Society Book Award, and finalist for the CWA Ian Fleming Steel Dagger, Her Every Fear, an NPR book of the year, and his most recent thriller, Eight Perfect Murders. His books have been translated into 30 languages, and his stories, poetry, and features have appeared in Asimov’s Science Fiction, The Atlantic Monthly, Measure, The Guardian, The Strand Magazine, and Yankee Magazine.
A graduate of Trinity College, the University of Massachusetts at Amherst, and Emerson College, he lives in Somerville, Massachusetts with his wife and cat.
A graduate of Trinity College, the University of Massachusetts at Amherst, and Emerson College, he lives in Somerville, Massachusetts with his wife and cat.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 408 reviews
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Do You See What I See? by Peter Swanson
Narrated by Graham Halstead
Sometimes short stories or novellas don't seem to be enough for me, unless they are connected to an a series I've already been reading. But this 128 page story (3 hours, 34 minutes at normal audio speed) has everything it needs to mean I'm satisfied by the end of the book. Nicholas Child is relating this story to us and with Graham Halstead as the audiobook narrator, I liked reading/listening to this story. Nicholas sounds grounded, intelligent, maybe someone interesting to know.
In his mid thirties, Nicholas's writing career, meager as it was, has fizzled out. He had a successful first book but then he was expected to come up with something entirely new for his second book, instead of continuing on with his first book world/character, and he pretty much ran out of steam. Now his agent has called out of the blue and she would like him to spend a few weeks with successful author, Marco Tavares, who is having trouble finishing his next book. He might even be having trouble really starting his next book.
Marco's seaside estate is lovely, his wife is lovely, all his stuff is lovely. Marco is not so lovely and once Nicholas arrives at Marco's estate and meets the other guests, it is obvious that just about all of them have a reason to despise Marco. It seems that Marco almost relishes rubbing everyone's nose into how successful he is, how he seems to get whatever and whomever he wants, and even his writer's block comes with someone who will fix what he can't do himself. This Christmas is turning out to not be a cheerful affair and all the booze isn't helping matters.
The setting, the people, all if it almost seems like a great setup for a murder mystery. And that is what we get, times two! Nicholas relates all of this to us and then he relates it some more and things change as we hear the story told a second and a third time. And I enjoyed all the tellings and I like that I'm pretty sure who did what but I'm not sure it's really over. But then maybe that's because I read too many murder mysteries.
Publication October 6, 2026
Thank you to HarperAudio Adult | William Morrow, SOTC (Scene of the Crime), and NetGalley for this ARC
Narrated by Graham Halstead
Sometimes short stories or novellas don't seem to be enough for me, unless they are connected to an a series I've already been reading. But this 128 page story (3 hours, 34 minutes at normal audio speed) has everything it needs to mean I'm satisfied by the end of the book. Nicholas Child is relating this story to us and with Graham Halstead as the audiobook narrator, I liked reading/listening to this story. Nicholas sounds grounded, intelligent, maybe someone interesting to know.
In his mid thirties, Nicholas's writing career, meager as it was, has fizzled out. He had a successful first book but then he was expected to come up with something entirely new for his second book, instead of continuing on with his first book world/character, and he pretty much ran out of steam. Now his agent has called out of the blue and she would like him to spend a few weeks with successful author, Marco Tavares, who is having trouble finishing his next book. He might even be having trouble really starting his next book.
Marco's seaside estate is lovely, his wife is lovely, all his stuff is lovely. Marco is not so lovely and once Nicholas arrives at Marco's estate and meets the other guests, it is obvious that just about all of them have a reason to despise Marco. It seems that Marco almost relishes rubbing everyone's nose into how successful he is, how he seems to get whatever and whomever he wants, and even his writer's block comes with someone who will fix what he can't do himself. This Christmas is turning out to not be a cheerful affair and all the booze isn't helping matters.
The setting, the people, all if it almost seems like a great setup for a murder mystery. And that is what we get, times two! Nicholas relates all of this to us and then he relates it some more and things change as we hear the story told a second and a third time. And I enjoyed all the tellings and I like that I'm pretty sure who did what but I'm not sure it's really over. But then maybe that's because I read too many murder mysteries.
Publication October 6, 2026
Thank you to HarperAudio Adult | William Morrow, SOTC (Scene of the Crime), and NetGalley for this ARC
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Do You See What I See? is a murder mystery written in three different versions, with the last two adding additional twisty details to the original story. While our narrator isn't entirely unreliable — he does eventually make his way to the truth in a roundabout sort of way — there's definitely more to the mystery than readers are initially led to believe.
And, I dunno, this was entertaining enough? It's twisty and turny with a somewhat outlandish plot, and it kept me reading despite it being a fairly slow burn. It's a little too short to get fully invested in and the narration style grated on me a bit (despite not being able to actually articulate what it is that I found irritating), but it was fun. Readers who have enjoyed other Peter Swanson books will probably appreciate this one, as it definitely has a similar feel to his previous novels.
I did especially enjoy how the characters are aware that they're in the perfect setting for a murder mystery — I mean, it's a Christmas gathering in a seaside mansion where every attendee has a reason to want the host dead, for crying out loud — and it adds just the right amount of foreboding to the tale. Is there a reason that these particular guests have been summoned to Marco Tavares' home for a Christmas celebration or is it all just a strange coincidence?
Overall, this was an entertaining read and I have no major complaints. While I wouldn't go so far as to say that he's one of my favorite writers, Peter Swanson is always good for a twisty and unusual mystery and this one is no exception.
3.7 stars, rounded up.
Many thanks to NetGalley and William Morrow for providing me with an advance copy of this book to review. Its expected publication date is October 6, 2026.
And, I dunno, this was entertaining enough? It's twisty and turny with a somewhat outlandish plot, and it kept me reading despite it being a fairly slow burn. It's a little too short to get fully invested in and the narration style grated on me a bit (despite not being able to actually articulate what it is that I found irritating), but it was fun. Readers who have enjoyed other Peter Swanson books will probably appreciate this one, as it definitely has a similar feel to his previous novels.
I did especially enjoy how the characters are aware that they're in the perfect setting for a murder mystery — I mean, it's a Christmas gathering in a seaside mansion where every attendee has a reason to want the host dead, for crying out loud — and it adds just the right amount of foreboding to the tale. Is there a reason that these particular guests have been summoned to Marco Tavares' home for a Christmas celebration or is it all just a strange coincidence?
Overall, this was an entertaining read and I have no major complaints. While I wouldn't go so far as to say that he's one of my favorite writers, Peter Swanson is always good for a twisty and unusual mystery and this one is no exception.
3.7 stars, rounded up.
Many thanks to NetGalley and William Morrow for providing me with an advance copy of this book to review. Its expected publication date is October 6, 2026.
March 10, 2026
EVIDENTLY… NOT
In Struggling mystery writer Nicholas Child is commissioned to help another writer finish the overdue follow up to his breakout bestseller. When he arrives to writer's Cape Cod home, in the week before Christmas, he discovers a house full of secrets, and a cast of very suspicious guests. When two deaths occur Nicolas writes his account of what happened while trying to solve the mystery.
I have accepted that I am clearly an outlier in this one because I see those high ratings, but unfortunately this was a flop for me.
This short ass novella should not have taken me nearly a week to complete, but here we are. Every time I picked it up; I immediately wanted to put it down again. The story was frankly not thrilling and mysterious enough for me. There are SO MANY characters for such a short story that there is no way I could connect with them let alone remember who they are and their purpose to the story.
Long story short I was bored and not entertained. I prefer Peter’s full-length novels. Even the writing was irritating me. I am the wrong audience for this book but don’t let I steer you off. It should be a quick read but for me it sadly wasn’t the case.
In Struggling mystery writer Nicholas Child is commissioned to help another writer finish the overdue follow up to his breakout bestseller. When he arrives to writer's Cape Cod home, in the week before Christmas, he discovers a house full of secrets, and a cast of very suspicious guests. When two deaths occur Nicolas writes his account of what happened while trying to solve the mystery.
I have accepted that I am clearly an outlier in this one because I see those high ratings, but unfortunately this was a flop for me.
This short ass novella should not have taken me nearly a week to complete, but here we are. Every time I picked it up; I immediately wanted to put it down again. The story was frankly not thrilling and mysterious enough for me. There are SO MANY characters for such a short story that there is no way I could connect with them let alone remember who they are and their purpose to the story.
Long story short I was bored and not entertained. I prefer Peter’s full-length novels. Even the writing was irritating me. I am the wrong audience for this book but don’t let I steer you off. It should be a quick read but for me it sadly wasn’t the case.
October 14, 2026
Christmas dinner with a house full of people who have reasons to hate the host? You just know things aren't going to end well!
Peter Swanson knows how to make a murder mystery entertaining, and I really enjoyed the way this one unfolded. Nicholas is sent to spend Christmas with successful author Marco, hoping to help him get his overdue novel back on track. Instead he finds himself surrounded by people carrying old grudges and plenty of reasons to want Marco gone. Once two deaths enter the picture, everyone becomes a suspect.
I really liked the way the story is told through three different versions of events. Each retelling adds something new, changes how you see the characters and makes you question what you thought you already knew. It's a clever way of revealing the secrets without dragging the story out. I did find some of the twists a little hard to buy into, but I was entertained trying to piece everything together. It's a short, easy read with that classic whodunnit feel and enough surprises to keep things interesting.
Peter Swanson knows how to make a murder mystery entertaining, and I really enjoyed the way this one unfolded. Nicholas is sent to spend Christmas with successful author Marco, hoping to help him get his overdue novel back on track. Instead he finds himself surrounded by people carrying old grudges and plenty of reasons to want Marco gone. Once two deaths enter the picture, everyone becomes a suspect.
I really liked the way the story is told through three different versions of events. Each retelling adds something new, changes how you see the characters and makes you question what you thought you already knew. It's a clever way of revealing the secrets without dragging the story out. I did find some of the twists a little hard to buy into, but I was entertained trying to piece everything together. It's a short, easy read with that classic whodunnit feel and enough surprises to keep things interesting.
Review of advance copy
I’ve been having a pretty good run with Peter Swanson lately, so I was keen to pick up this short Christmas mystery. We follow Nicholas Child, a mystery writer whose career hasn’t quite gone to plan, when his agent offers him $50,000 to spend Christmas on Cape Cod helping bestselling author Marco Tavares get his struggling new book back on track. It sounded like a good deal, but once Nicholas arrives at Grey Gables and starts meeting the rather interesting group of people gathering there for Christmas, it becomes clear there’s a lot more going on.
The setup was right up my alley, with a large, slightly isolated house on Cape Cod at Christmas and a group of questionable characters gathering under one roof with a murder waiting to happen. Throw in a wall of potential murder weapons and you might as well start taking bets on who’s going to make it to Christmas. It has all the makings of a classic murder mystery, with a few crime writers in the mix who know the tropes just as well as we do, which added a fun, self-aware element to the whole thing.
For such a short book, Swanson manages to fit quite a lot in without making it feel overly complicated. Nicholas was an easy character to follow, and I enjoyed watching him try to make sense of everyone around him while never being completely sure who was telling the truth. The characters are a slightly odd bunch too, and nobody seems to have turned up for Christmas without bringing a little baggage along with them, which gave the story a bit more personality and made me curious about what everyone was really doing at Grey Gables.
The last stretch was probably my favourite part, with each new piece of information shifting my understanding of what had actually happened. I liked the way the story played with different versions of events, and how the final little reveal isn’t completely spelled out. Thankfully, Swanson gave me enough dots to actually connect them.
This was a fun little Christmas mystery and another good read from Swanson for me. It was quick, clever and had enough twists packed into its short length to keep me guessing, with an ending that gave me one last thing to think about after I’d finished.
The setup was right up my alley, with a large, slightly isolated house on Cape Cod at Christmas and a group of questionable characters gathering under one roof with a murder waiting to happen. Throw in a wall of potential murder weapons and you might as well start taking bets on who’s going to make it to Christmas. It has all the makings of a classic murder mystery, with a few crime writers in the mix who know the tropes just as well as we do, which added a fun, self-aware element to the whole thing.
For such a short book, Swanson manages to fit quite a lot in without making it feel overly complicated. Nicholas was an easy character to follow, and I enjoyed watching him try to make sense of everyone around him while never being completely sure who was telling the truth. The characters are a slightly odd bunch too, and nobody seems to have turned up for Christmas without bringing a little baggage along with them, which gave the story a bit more personality and made me curious about what everyone was really doing at Grey Gables.
The last stretch was probably my favourite part, with each new piece of information shifting my understanding of what had actually happened. I liked the way the story played with different versions of events, and how the final little reveal isn’t completely spelled out. Thankfully, Swanson gave me enough dots to actually connect them.
This was a fun little Christmas mystery and another good read from Swanson for me. It was quick, clever and had enough twists packed into its short length to keep me guessing, with an ending that gave me one last thing to think about after I’d finished.
October 7, 2026
Deceptive, twisty, and beyond clever, Do You See What I See? took a classic Agatha Christie-style whodunnit, added some Eight Perfect Murders-like flair, and served up a book that Anthony Horowitz would be proud to call his own. You see, it not only had a metafictional vibe, but the locked-room setting, side-eye-worthy suspects, and original setup combined all three into quite the enjoyable quick, easy read.
What sealed the deal for me, though? Well, in spite of the fact that it came in at just 110 pages long, this novella actually felt complete and fully fleshed out. Taking a creative spin on a Christmasy murder mystery, the three-part format was my favorite part of this one-sitting read. Don’t get me wrong, the contrast between the warm and cozy festive Cape Cod home and the increasingly ominous atmosphere was yet another gold star for this unstoppable author. Paired with a few toxic relationships, a bunch of buried secrets, and an unreliable narrator, and it was a guaranteed home run for this mystery lover.
All said and done, as long as you don’t mind a somewhat slow-burning pace that lacked a teeny bit of suspense to start off with, I recommend getting a copy of this story within a story ASAP. Shrewdly structured and filled with plot-shifting twists, it had everything I could want in a holiday-themed read. Rating of 4.25 stars.
Read if you’re a fan of:
- Classic whodunnits
- Short, novella-length reads
- Long-buried secrets
- Locked-room settings
- Toxic relationships
- Slow-burning suspense
- Murder mysteries
- Unreliable narrators
- A story-within-a-story
- A suspicious ensemble cast
- Metafictional vibes
EDITED SYNOPSIS:
Please oh please don’t read the full publisher-provided synopsis! In my opinion, it gives just a bit too much of the plot away. Here’s all you need to know before diving in…
When author Nicholas Child is dropped by his publisher, his agent sends him to spend the holidays at the Cape Cod mansion of her other client, Marco Tavares. Marco needs to finish the long-overdue follow-up to his bestselling novel, and Nicholas is going to help him.
But when Nicholas arrives at Marco’s sprawling seaside estate, which is decked out in twinkling lights and a towering Christmas tree, he finds himself in the middle of a gathering where holiday cheer is in short supply—and every visitor seems to have a motive to kill their host.
As Christmas inches closer and the group lets the alcohol flow, it becomes clear that there are grudges, jealousies, and secrets running rampant through this small group of new and old friends. Will they all make it through the holidays alive? Or will there be a couple of bodies under the tree on Christmas Day along with their presents?
Thank you Peter Swanson and William Morrow Books for my complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.
PUB DATE: October 6, 2026
Content warning: blood, murder, death, toxic friendship, abandonment, mention of: suicide, school shooting
What sealed the deal for me, though? Well, in spite of the fact that it came in at just 110 pages long, this novella actually felt complete and fully fleshed out. Taking a creative spin on a Christmasy murder mystery, the three-part format was my favorite part of this one-sitting read. Don’t get me wrong, the contrast between the warm and cozy festive Cape Cod home and the increasingly ominous atmosphere was yet another gold star for this unstoppable author. Paired with a few toxic relationships, a bunch of buried secrets, and an unreliable narrator, and it was a guaranteed home run for this mystery lover.
All said and done, as long as you don’t mind a somewhat slow-burning pace that lacked a teeny bit of suspense to start off with, I recommend getting a copy of this story within a story ASAP. Shrewdly structured and filled with plot-shifting twists, it had everything I could want in a holiday-themed read. Rating of 4.25 stars.
Read if you’re a fan of:
- Classic whodunnits
- Short, novella-length reads
- Long-buried secrets
- Locked-room settings
- Toxic relationships
- Slow-burning suspense
- Murder mysteries
- Unreliable narrators
- A story-within-a-story
- A suspicious ensemble cast
- Metafictional vibes
EDITED SYNOPSIS:
Please oh please don’t read the full publisher-provided synopsis! In my opinion, it gives just a bit too much of the plot away. Here’s all you need to know before diving in…
When author Nicholas Child is dropped by his publisher, his agent sends him to spend the holidays at the Cape Cod mansion of her other client, Marco Tavares. Marco needs to finish the long-overdue follow-up to his bestselling novel, and Nicholas is going to help him.
But when Nicholas arrives at Marco’s sprawling seaside estate, which is decked out in twinkling lights and a towering Christmas tree, he finds himself in the middle of a gathering where holiday cheer is in short supply—and every visitor seems to have a motive to kill their host.
As Christmas inches closer and the group lets the alcohol flow, it becomes clear that there are grudges, jealousies, and secrets running rampant through this small group of new and old friends. Will they all make it through the holidays alive? Or will there be a couple of bodies under the tree on Christmas Day along with their presents?
Thank you Peter Swanson and William Morrow Books for my complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.
PUB DATE: October 6, 2026
Content warning: blood, murder, death, toxic friendship, abandonment, mention of: suicide, school shooting
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
For a novella, this took me a long time to read. It’s a slow burn and the dark, foreboding atmosphere is worth the time. Definitely not your typical Christmas story!
Marco Tavares is a best selling author that has reached a writer’s block for his next novel. His agent has an idea to send another one of her clients, Nicholas Child, to help finish writing the novel. Marco lives with his wife on an estate on Cape Cod. With holiday festivities in full swing, Nicholas arrives to a home filled with guests. None of them are likable, but could one be capable of murdering the host? They all have motive.
Divided in thirds, it’s a very clever way to frame a mystery. A puzzle and guessing game to figure out the outcome had me hooked. Each section uncovering more of the mysterious guests, their relationships, and the intentions that lie beneath the surface.
Peter Swanson has penned a great Christmas mystery. Thanks to NetGalley and William Morrow for an early copy.
Marco Tavares is a best selling author that has reached a writer’s block for his next novel. His agent has an idea to send another one of her clients, Nicholas Child, to help finish writing the novel. Marco lives with his wife on an estate on Cape Cod. With holiday festivities in full swing, Nicholas arrives to a home filled with guests. None of them are likable, but could one be capable of murdering the host? They all have motive.
Divided in thirds, it’s a very clever way to frame a mystery. A puzzle and guessing game to figure out the outcome had me hooked. Each section uncovering more of the mysterious guests, their relationships, and the intentions that lie beneath the surface.
Peter Swanson has penned a great Christmas mystery. Thanks to NetGalley and William Morrow for an early copy.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Peter Swanson's mysteries are my jam! Although I've read a pile of mysteries with the premise of a gathering turned deadly at an author's estate, that came up short, I didn't hesitate for a moment to request this one as Swanson's style tends to deliver no matter the premise. I tried to wait as long as I could because this has an autumn release date and is a holiday story, but I didn't make it very long. 🤷🏻♀️An early review it is! 🎄🎁
Nicholas Child might be a published author, but his current prospects aren't looking up. He meets with his agent who has an odd request. She wants him to spend the Christmas holidays at Cape Cod with Marco Tavares at his sprawling seaside mansion to see if the disastrous follow up to his successful thriller is salvageable. Nicholas agrees with some reluctance and soon finds himself at an uncomfortable holiday gathering. The visitors all seem to hate the host which is all the more confusing when an alcohol-soaked night leads to two corpses come morning. As an author Nicholas recognizes a setup when he sees it, but is the danger over? And he has a feeling perhaps he was cast in a role....killer? victim? patsy? Past and present collide opening up possibilities.
I could not put this down the more I read the more I wanted to read. The characters seem pretty easy to understand at first, but as the story develops, they become more realistic and flawed. There are little human touches throughout that grounded what could've been a very surface experience adding a sprinkling of depth which isn't typical in murder mystery novellas, so it stood out. I may have to order a gorgeous hardback of this for my keeper shelf when it hits because every year, I set all my Christmas themed mysteries facing outward as decor to the delight or distress of visitors. (I'm a reader through and through 😆🎄)
If you enjoy a bloody mystery alongside the festive tunes, treats, and trimmings of the holiday season this is one worth checking out.
Thank you to William Morrow for providing an ARC via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Nicholas Child might be a published author, but his current prospects aren't looking up. He meets with his agent who has an odd request. She wants him to spend the Christmas holidays at Cape Cod with Marco Tavares at his sprawling seaside mansion to see if the disastrous follow up to his successful thriller is salvageable. Nicholas agrees with some reluctance and soon finds himself at an uncomfortable holiday gathering. The visitors all seem to hate the host which is all the more confusing when an alcohol-soaked night leads to two corpses come morning. As an author Nicholas recognizes a setup when he sees it, but is the danger over? And he has a feeling perhaps he was cast in a role....killer? victim? patsy? Past and present collide opening up possibilities.
I could not put this down the more I read the more I wanted to read. The characters seem pretty easy to understand at first, but as the story develops, they become more realistic and flawed. There are little human touches throughout that grounded what could've been a very surface experience adding a sprinkling of depth which isn't typical in murder mystery novellas, so it stood out. I may have to order a gorgeous hardback of this for my keeper shelf when it hits because every year, I set all my Christmas themed mysteries facing outward as decor to the delight or distress of visitors. (I'm a reader through and through 😆🎄)
If you enjoy a bloody mystery alongside the festive tunes, treats, and trimmings of the holiday season this is one worth checking out.
Thank you to William Morrow for providing an ARC via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
August 2, 2026
‘I spy your humble home
I see the tea towels fly
In a blinding flash
I see the years go by.
Do you see what I see?’
Grey Gables - is the Cape Cod home of best selling mystery writer Marco Tavares and his artist wife Maeve Finch. Marco has huge success with ‘The Girl at the Door’ but is struggling with his latest novel. His agent Linda Barkin proposes that fellow mystery author Nicholas Child, our narrator, heads to the Cape at Christmas to help him sort out the hot mess of his latest literary effort. As the other guests assemble along with the Tavares household, one guest remarks that it looks like they’re inside a murder mystery or a play. This guest might be right as the least emotion that some might feel is jealousy. It’s certainly the right setting, a beautiful house, snow, Christmas lights, food and wine but is there a festive spirit or something else lurking beneath the glitzy, sparkly surface?
First of all, the atmosphere that Peter Swanson creates is perfect for this tale. The Cape setting, the sea, the wintery conditions, a mixed bag of house guests, all with barely subsumed strong emotions and away we go.
It’s a clever premise and I really enjoy the Three Acts
or parts as it keeps my attention and as each one is unveiled, there are some good unexpected revelations, particularly in Part Three which is the most riveting. It’s twisty, hard to put down and easy to read, keeping me both interested and entertained. It’s a classic whodunnit with suspicion passing from one character to the next but kudos for the end!
The characterisation is good, few are likeable, most are flawed, often deeply so, or liars or cold manipulators or maybe all of those things!
I love the literary element which is cleverly used especially that of Daphne du Maurier, one of my favourite authors, having read everything she has written.
Overall, a perfect Christmas murder mystery novella and one I shall purchase both for myself and as gifts.
With thanks to NetGalley and especially to Faber and Faber for the much appreciated early copy in return for an honest review.
I see the tea towels fly
In a blinding flash
I see the years go by.
Do you see what I see?’
Grey Gables - is the Cape Cod home of best selling mystery writer Marco Tavares and his artist wife Maeve Finch. Marco has huge success with ‘The Girl at the Door’ but is struggling with his latest novel. His agent Linda Barkin proposes that fellow mystery author Nicholas Child, our narrator, heads to the Cape at Christmas to help him sort out the hot mess of his latest literary effort. As the other guests assemble along with the Tavares household, one guest remarks that it looks like they’re inside a murder mystery or a play. This guest might be right as the least emotion that some might feel is jealousy. It’s certainly the right setting, a beautiful house, snow, Christmas lights, food and wine but is there a festive spirit or something else lurking beneath the glitzy, sparkly surface?
First of all, the atmosphere that Peter Swanson creates is perfect for this tale. The Cape setting, the sea, the wintery conditions, a mixed bag of house guests, all with barely subsumed strong emotions and away we go.
It’s a clever premise and I really enjoy the Three Acts
or parts as it keeps my attention and as each one is unveiled, there are some good unexpected revelations, particularly in Part Three which is the most riveting. It’s twisty, hard to put down and easy to read, keeping me both interested and entertained. It’s a classic whodunnit with suspicion passing from one character to the next but kudos for the end!
The characterisation is good, few are likeable, most are flawed, often deeply so, or liars or cold manipulators or maybe all of those things!
I love the literary element which is cleverly used especially that of Daphne du Maurier, one of my favourite authors, having read everything she has written.
Overall, a perfect Christmas murder mystery novella and one I shall purchase both for myself and as gifts.
With thanks to NetGalley and especially to Faber and Faber for the much appreciated early copy in return for an honest review.
October 9, 2026
➡️ An early Christmas present from Peter Swanson.
Thank you, Peter! 🎄🎅🎁🔔👼
➡️ Even with two dead bodies, this pacy, twisty, character-driven, and atmospheric Christmas novella was fun!
This native Bostonian especially enjoyed the book's "locked-door" New England setting at a sprawling, isolated seaside mansion in Cape Cod, Massachusetts.
➡️ The premise?
Best to go in blind.
➡️ I listened to the audiobook, narrated by Graham Halstead.
Graham Halstead's performance was outstanding.
A perfect narrator choice.
➡️ Will you listen to what I just listened to?
I hope so!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
My perfect Christmas celebration? Curling up with an utterly unputdownable, one-sitting murder mystery by Peter Swanson — and then rewatching Hans Gruber plunge from Nakatomi Plaza in Die Hard. That fall never fails to spark a little extra holiday joy. 🎄
This novella is a deliciously wicked locked-room-meets-Christmas murder mystery — sharp, fast, and laced with dark humor.
The premise is irresistible: arrogant, wildly successful Italian bestselling author Marco Tavares hosts a Christmas gathering at his home. But instead of surrounding himself with admirers, his guest list reads like a carefully curated collection of enemies.
There’s his wife, Maeve Finch — a talented, sophisticated painter who now sleeps in a separate bedroom. Their marriage feels more like a performance than a partnership. His sister Catherine has seemingly despised him since childhood. His aging grandmother, Louisa, drifts in and out of clarity, her confusion adding an unsettling fragility to the household.
Marco’s so-called best friend, Billy Sousa, has endured public humiliation at Marco’s hands more than once. His ex-girlfriend, Eve Margolis, may or may not harbor unresolved feelings — much to the visible discomfort of her husband, Ben Strickland, whose jealousy flares whenever Marco and Eve share even a glance. Then there’s James Beers, quietly resentful because Marco allegedly stole his book idea, turned it into a bestseller, and left James behind in his modest life as an accountant — all while nursing a subtle crush on Maeve.
And finally, we have our narrator, Nicholas Child — a writer hired as a consultant to help Marco finish his latest novel before its looming deadline. Nicholas is meant to stay for a month. What no one initially realizes is that he has his own secret connection to the events that unfold — and to the two deaths that shatter the evening.
Enter Detective Hedges. She asks Nicholas to recount the night’s events as though he’s telling a story. But like many writers, he’s far better on the page than in conversation. Instead of speaking, he types out three different versions of what happened. Each version peels back another layer — exposing Marco’s manipulations, long-buried grudges, and Nicholas’s deeper involvement.
Why are there two murders instead of one? Are they truly “perfect” crimes? And who, exactly, is the murderer? Swanson keeps us guessing until the final pages, when the twist lands with a sharp, satisfying sting.
I do have one lingering question — and I genuinely mean this with curiosity: what happened to Johanna? She absolutely deserves her own story. There’s something there that feels intentionally unresolved, and I would happily read more.
Overall, this is an intriguing, clever, and fast-paced crime thriller with irresistible literary flair. The book references sprinkled throughout were a gift in themselves — I actually started a list of every title mentioned and now fully intend to read them all. Consider this my enthusiastic thank-you to Peter Swanson for the bonus mystery-reading recommendations wrapped inside a mystery.
A huge thank you to NetGalley and William Morrow for providing this gripping Christmas murder novella in exchange for my honest thoughts. I devoured it in one sitting — the best kind of holiday indulgence.
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This novella is a deliciously wicked locked-room-meets-Christmas murder mystery — sharp, fast, and laced with dark humor.
The premise is irresistible: arrogant, wildly successful Italian bestselling author Marco Tavares hosts a Christmas gathering at his home. But instead of surrounding himself with admirers, his guest list reads like a carefully curated collection of enemies.
There’s his wife, Maeve Finch — a talented, sophisticated painter who now sleeps in a separate bedroom. Their marriage feels more like a performance than a partnership. His sister Catherine has seemingly despised him since childhood. His aging grandmother, Louisa, drifts in and out of clarity, her confusion adding an unsettling fragility to the household.
Marco’s so-called best friend, Billy Sousa, has endured public humiliation at Marco’s hands more than once. His ex-girlfriend, Eve Margolis, may or may not harbor unresolved feelings — much to the visible discomfort of her husband, Ben Strickland, whose jealousy flares whenever Marco and Eve share even a glance. Then there’s James Beers, quietly resentful because Marco allegedly stole his book idea, turned it into a bestseller, and left James behind in his modest life as an accountant — all while nursing a subtle crush on Maeve.
And finally, we have our narrator, Nicholas Child — a writer hired as a consultant to help Marco finish his latest novel before its looming deadline. Nicholas is meant to stay for a month. What no one initially realizes is that he has his own secret connection to the events that unfold — and to the two deaths that shatter the evening.
Enter Detective Hedges. She asks Nicholas to recount the night’s events as though he’s telling a story. But like many writers, he’s far better on the page than in conversation. Instead of speaking, he types out three different versions of what happened. Each version peels back another layer — exposing Marco’s manipulations, long-buried grudges, and Nicholas’s deeper involvement.
Why are there two murders instead of one? Are they truly “perfect” crimes? And who, exactly, is the murderer? Swanson keeps us guessing until the final pages, when the twist lands with a sharp, satisfying sting.
I do have one lingering question — and I genuinely mean this with curiosity: what happened to Johanna? She absolutely deserves her own story. There’s something there that feels intentionally unresolved, and I would happily read more.
Overall, this is an intriguing, clever, and fast-paced crime thriller with irresistible literary flair. The book references sprinkled throughout were a gift in themselves — I actually started a list of every title mentioned and now fully intend to read them all. Consider this my enthusiastic thank-you to Peter Swanson for the bonus mystery-reading recommendations wrapped inside a mystery.
A huge thank you to NetGalley and William Morrow for providing this gripping Christmas murder novella in exchange for my honest thoughts. I devoured it in one sitting — the best kind of holiday indulgence.
medium blog
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Christmas in July? Works for me! I think we could all use a break from the heat!
Nicholas Child hasn’t had the best luck as an author. Recently dumped by his publisher, his options are rather limited. That is, until his agent makes him an offer he can’t refuse. Spend Christmas with best-selling author Marco Tavares and his family. Marco has hit a bad case of writer’s block and is struggling to complete his latest book. He believes that Nicholas can assist in motivating or help with editing to get him rolling again.
But Nicholas immediately had a bad feeling after arriving. As in… someone may not survive through the festive season.
This was a fun novella from Peter Swanson. Plenty of twists that gave me pause. I finished in basically one sitting, but it never felt rushed. The perfect size for a mid-holiday read.
✍️ Peter Swanson
📄 128 pages
🗓️ Anticipated release date: October 6, 2026
📈 4/5🌟🌟🌟🌟
👉 Thriller, novella
Thank you to NetGalley and William Morrow
Nicholas Child hasn’t had the best luck as an author. Recently dumped by his publisher, his options are rather limited. That is, until his agent makes him an offer he can’t refuse. Spend Christmas with best-selling author Marco Tavares and his family. Marco has hit a bad case of writer’s block and is struggling to complete his latest book. He believes that Nicholas can assist in motivating or help with editing to get him rolling again.
But Nicholas immediately had a bad feeling after arriving. As in… someone may not survive through the festive season.
This was a fun novella from Peter Swanson. Plenty of twists that gave me pause. I finished in basically one sitting, but it never felt rushed. The perfect size for a mid-holiday read.
✍️ Peter Swanson
📄 128 pages
🗓️ Anticipated release date: October 6, 2026
📈 4/5🌟🌟🌟🌟
👉 Thriller, novella
Thank you to NetGalley and William Morrow
October 10, 2026
Fun and clever mystery. Not really a Christmas mystery although it is set around Christmas time. Always a treat to read a new Swanson novella.
Author Nicholas Child is tasked with helping bestselling author Marco Tavares to complete his latest novel, which everyone says is a mess. His agent has arranged for Nicholas to join Marco and his family at their seaside Cape Cod estate for the holidays. When he and the other guests arrive, Nicholas discovers that there are many people who have issues with Marco, and maybe even with each other as well.
This is a fantastically crafted short book, but I didn't feel as if I were missing anything with its brevity. I think many writers should take notice--I'm getting so weary of these 500+ page books being released lately and it was so refreshing to read a clever, entertaining book without a ton of extra fluff.
When all is said and done, this is a really fun read, I was surprised and entertained with the way things played out and smiled at Swanson's creativity. Definitely a winner.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book, all opinions are my own.
Author Nicholas Child is tasked with helping bestselling author Marco Tavares to complete his latest novel, which everyone says is a mess. His agent has arranged for Nicholas to join Marco and his family at their seaside Cape Cod estate for the holidays. When he and the other guests arrive, Nicholas discovers that there are many people who have issues with Marco, and maybe even with each other as well.
This is a fantastically crafted short book, but I didn't feel as if I were missing anything with its brevity. I think many writers should take notice--I'm getting so weary of these 500+ page books being released lately and it was so refreshing to read a clever, entertaining book without a ton of extra fluff.
When all is said and done, this is a really fun read, I was surprised and entertained with the way things played out and smiled at Swanson's creativity. Definitely a winner.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book, all opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This novella was classic Peter Swanson!
Nicholas Swanson is an author who has at risk of losing his publisher. He had success with his first novel, but has been chasing down his next effort.
Marco Tavares is a successful author, but has run into a wall writing his next bestseller. It is due in one month. His editor approaches Nicholas with a proposal. Go up to Marco's house on the Cape and spend two weeks during Christmas to give him feedback and suggestions on the novel. Nicholas decides to do this.
When he arrives he meets Marco's family. There is his wife, sister, grandmother, ex-wife and her new husband, and Marcos best friend, and his new friend who he stole the idea of his best seller from!
To say there is tension and drama is an understatement. Marco is abhorrent, his wife is lovely, his sister is detached, his grandmother is unaware, and his best friend is gruff. There are references to "murder mysteries", and this is exactly what this feels like! As the days pass by, we come to see how narcissistic Marco truly is. All these people have a reason to hate Marco, so it really is no surprise when he turns up murdered.
The story is told by Nicholas after the fact. And it gets really interesting as he changes it three times! And once again, i managed to be a bit surprised at the ending, the connections, and even who I think is the real killer!
An enjoyable, fast paced, engaging novella for those wishing for a murder mystery in a Christmas setting by the sea. and characters that become questionable!
Thank you to NetGalley and William Morrow for the ARC. This is my honest and voluntary review.
Nicholas Swanson is an author who has at risk of losing his publisher. He had success with his first novel, but has been chasing down his next effort.
Marco Tavares is a successful author, but has run into a wall writing his next bestseller. It is due in one month. His editor approaches Nicholas with a proposal. Go up to Marco's house on the Cape and spend two weeks during Christmas to give him feedback and suggestions on the novel. Nicholas decides to do this.
When he arrives he meets Marco's family. There is his wife, sister, grandmother, ex-wife and her new husband, and Marcos best friend, and his new friend who he stole the idea of his best seller from!
To say there is tension and drama is an understatement. Marco is abhorrent, his wife is lovely, his sister is detached, his grandmother is unaware, and his best friend is gruff. There are references to "murder mysteries", and this is exactly what this feels like! As the days pass by, we come to see how narcissistic Marco truly is. All these people have a reason to hate Marco, so it really is no surprise when he turns up murdered.
The story is told by Nicholas after the fact. And it gets really interesting as he changes it three times! And once again, i managed to be a bit surprised at the ending, the connections, and even who I think is the real killer!
An enjoyable, fast paced, engaging novella for those wishing for a murder mystery in a Christmas setting by the sea. and characters that become questionable!
Thank you to NetGalley and William Morrow for the ARC. This is my honest and voluntary review.
August 27, 2026
Loved it! 👏👏👏
There are a number of things I like that an author does. One is writing himself as one of the characters (that would be you Anthony Horowitz) and another is to write a clever story. I found the second like in Peter Swanson's "Christmas" themed book.
A down on his writing ability author, Nicholas Child, is hired to help a struggling somewhat famous author, Marco Tavares, who can't seem to get it together for his current novel. Marco is a devilish man, one who can often turn your stomach and his wife, Nora,( who falls into that category) along with others who have been invited to a Christmas gathering at the Tavares' home present a motley crew of internal animosity.
These are are a strange compendium of people having their reason for the Marco hate. As Christmas is a time of celebration, (and lots of drinking), this holiday is no exception except that when Christmas Day arrives there are two dead bodies, To Nicholas, it seems like "maybe" this was all a setup to "off" Marco, but also perhaps a well deserved "ciao" to a despicable man.
Who could have it have been? As the suspicion shifts from Nora, Marco's sister, Billy Sousa ( friend!!!), a grandmother, Marco's ex girlfriend and her husband, and of course our storyteller, Nicholas, we are left with a super story of murder and perhaps a bit of "joy to the world" that Marco is a "dearly" departed soul.
There are a number of things I like that an author does. One is writing himself as one of the characters (that would be you Anthony Horowitz) and another is to write a clever story. I found the second like in Peter Swanson's "Christmas" themed book.
A down on his writing ability author, Nicholas Child, is hired to help a struggling somewhat famous author, Marco Tavares, who can't seem to get it together for his current novel. Marco is a devilish man, one who can often turn your stomach and his wife, Nora,( who falls into that category) along with others who have been invited to a Christmas gathering at the Tavares' home present a motley crew of internal animosity.
These are are a strange compendium of people having their reason for the Marco hate. As Christmas is a time of celebration, (and lots of drinking), this holiday is no exception except that when Christmas Day arrives there are two dead bodies, To Nicholas, it seems like "maybe" this was all a setup to "off" Marco, but also perhaps a well deserved "ciao" to a despicable man.
Who could have it have been? As the suspicion shifts from Nora, Marco's sister, Billy Sousa ( friend!!!), a grandmother, Marco's ex girlfriend and her husband, and of course our storyteller, Nicholas, we are left with a super story of murder and perhaps a bit of "joy to the world" that Marco is a "dearly" departed soul.
October 16, 2026
the setup…
Nicholas Child is a writer who had success with his first novel but hasn’t been able to match that debut. Dropped by his publisher, his agent provides him a financial opportunity to help out another client. Best selling author Marco Tavares is struggling with his long overdue next book and Nicholas is hired to help him. It’s Christmas and Nicholas is staying at Marco’s Cape Cod estate in Truro. They’re not alone as his wife, artist Maeve Finch, will be there along with his sister, grandmother and three other guests. After an alcohol filled night, two people end up dead the next morning. Nicholas feels like he’s in a whodunnit with a host of suspects, a story he might have written himself.
the heart of the story…
Nicholas is our narrator and he’s trying to figure out the culprits. Just as I think I know what’s going on, there’s a surprise curveball…and then another one!
the narration…
Graham Halstead sounded like a novelist telling his own story. I loved his interpretation and performance. He sold everything.
the bottom line…
Oh, this is a clever one! Bravo Mr. Swanson for pulling off a thriller with Christmas in the background and making this short story feel like a big tome. I was prepared for a twist but this was beyond next level.
Posted on Blue Mood Café
Nicholas Child is a writer who had success with his first novel but hasn’t been able to match that debut. Dropped by his publisher, his agent provides him a financial opportunity to help out another client. Best selling author Marco Tavares is struggling with his long overdue next book and Nicholas is hired to help him. It’s Christmas and Nicholas is staying at Marco’s Cape Cod estate in Truro. They’re not alone as his wife, artist Maeve Finch, will be there along with his sister, grandmother and three other guests. After an alcohol filled night, two people end up dead the next morning. Nicholas feels like he’s in a whodunnit with a host of suspects, a story he might have written himself.
the heart of the story…
Nicholas is our narrator and he’s trying to figure out the culprits. Just as I think I know what’s going on, there’s a surprise curveball…and then another one!
the narration…
Graham Halstead sounded like a novelist telling his own story. I loved his interpretation and performance. He sold everything.
the bottom line…
Oh, this is a clever one! Bravo Mr. Swanson for pulling off a thriller with Christmas in the background and making this short story feel like a big tome. I was prepared for a twist but this was beyond next level.
Posted on Blue Mood Café
October 7, 2026
4.25 stars, really enjoyed this holiday mystery novella, Swanson is such a good writer, well plotted and very decent twist. Lived both the meta and golden age of mystery aspects too. Fun
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
A new Christmas mystery novella from Peter Swanson is always something to celebrate. The narrator of this story is Nicholas Child, a mystery writer who has had some past success but is now without a publisher. His agent offers him an opportunity he can't resist: to help another of her clients, a bestselling author named Marco Tavares, salvage his current work which is supposedly a real mess. Nicholas will go to Marco's seaside home in Truro on the Cape and spend the Christmas holiday with the author's family and friends, while offering suggestions for Marco's unfinished book. When tragedy strikes, the police detective investigating the case asks Nicholas to write down how it all happened. This story is the result.
Novellas are similar to short stories in that a lot has to be expressed in few words, while quickly building character, setting, and circumstances. Swanson does that so well. A quick and enjoyable seasonal mystery with an interesting ending.
Many thanks to the author and publisher for providing me with an arc of this new novella via NetGalley.
Novellas are similar to short stories in that a lot has to be expressed in few words, while quickly building character, setting, and circumstances. Swanson does that so well. A quick and enjoyable seasonal mystery with an interesting ending.
Many thanks to the author and publisher for providing me with an arc of this new novella via NetGalley.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
4 Chilling Holiday Novella Stars *now available
Narrated by Graham Halstead
Peter Swanson has a way of setting up a story and then pulling the rug out from under his readers. That’s how I felt in this one, in acts two and three, when we get the big reveals.
Set on Cape Cod during the holiday season, Nicholas Child, an author, arrives to help another writer, Marco, get his book back on track. Swanson is an expert at atmospheric tone. I could easily picture myself at this gorgeous coastal house.
Several guests are at the house. Marco’s wife, sister, grandmother, and then an ex-girlfriend and best friend. What could possibly go wrong with this crowd? Do they all hate Marco?
The next morning, there are two dead bodies, and Nicholas wonders what to do next. Is he the next target?
This was a quick, fascinating listen and would make a great holiday gift for readers who enjoy this sort of tale.
Marilyn and I had a fun time discussing this one. Be sure to check out her review.
My thanks to SOTC, William Morrow, and Harper Audio Adult for the opportunity to listen to this one and offer an honest review.
Narrated by Graham Halstead
Peter Swanson has a way of setting up a story and then pulling the rug out from under his readers. That’s how I felt in this one, in acts two and three, when we get the big reveals.
Set on Cape Cod during the holiday season, Nicholas Child, an author, arrives to help another writer, Marco, get his book back on track. Swanson is an expert at atmospheric tone. I could easily picture myself at this gorgeous coastal house.
Several guests are at the house. Marco’s wife, sister, grandmother, and then an ex-girlfriend and best friend. What could possibly go wrong with this crowd? Do they all hate Marco?
The next morning, there are two dead bodies, and Nicholas wonders what to do next. Is he the next target?
This was a quick, fascinating listen and would make a great holiday gift for readers who enjoy this sort of tale.
Marilyn and I had a fun time discussing this one. Be sure to check out her review.
My thanks to SOTC, William Morrow, and Harper Audio Adult for the opportunity to listen to this one and offer an honest review.
August 16, 2026
Another fun Christmas novella from a favourite thriller writer Peter Swanson.
We meet Nick, a struggling writer. His agent asks him to go and stay with a famous author who is not getting very far with his next novel. Nick is one of many people staying in this house over Christmas. There is a festive atmosphere with the fire and decorations but things turn dark quickly and one of them won’t see the next day.
I loved that the story is told in 3 parts, with the reader learning more about the characters with each part. Of course things are never quite as they appear when it comes to this author. It is fun story that would be perfect to read at Christmas time. An Agatha Christie style murder mystery with a large cast of characters with hidden agendas.
Thanks to William Morrow for allowing me to read this book early. Publishes on October 6th.
We meet Nick, a struggling writer. His agent asks him to go and stay with a famous author who is not getting very far with his next novel. Nick is one of many people staying in this house over Christmas. There is a festive atmosphere with the fire and decorations but things turn dark quickly and one of them won’t see the next day.
I loved that the story is told in 3 parts, with the reader learning more about the characters with each part. Of course things are never quite as they appear when it comes to this author. It is fun story that would be perfect to read at Christmas time. An Agatha Christie style murder mystery with a large cast of characters with hidden agendas.
Thanks to William Morrow for allowing me to read this book early. Publishes on October 6th.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
What an interesting way to tell a story! That’s one of the things I admire most about Peter Swanson’s writing … he finds different ways of letting the reader know what’s going on. Although it’s a “Christmas Story”, it’s a well put together mystery that can be read any time of year. Do You See What I See? is full of odd, quirky characters; some are more likable than others. And they are all brought together at Christmastime. But despite Swanson defining each character at the beginning, do we really know who they are? I find the biggest entertainment comes from each of their personalities. It is a quick, enjoyable read. Thank you to NetGalley and William Morrow for the digital ARC.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Do you See What I See is a short “whodunit” mystery thriller written by Peter Swanson and surrounds a couple authors and their family members and friends at an annual Christmas Party.
There are several interesting key characters and a few more odd ones thrown it to complete the mystery. It’s an easy, short story that was mildly drawing. In my opinion, a novella should not be a “slow burn” with so little pages to get “the party going” but this one is exactly that… slow to the go. 🫤
However, the mysterious deaths of two party guests and a fantastic investigator helps pick up the pace. As the investigation gets underway, it becomes apparent that there is more to this story than two spontaneous acts of murder… 🤔could this have been deliberately orchestrated??? And here the mystery unfolds.
A mystery with a bit of Christmas frill, this novella gets 2.5 ⭐️ ⭐️✨rounded to 3⭐️. An easy read to fills some space, if that is what you’re needing!
Thank you NetGalley and the publishers for this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
There are several interesting key characters and a few more odd ones thrown it to complete the mystery. It’s an easy, short story that was mildly drawing. In my opinion, a novella should not be a “slow burn” with so little pages to get “the party going” but this one is exactly that… slow to the go. 🫤
However, the mysterious deaths of two party guests and a fantastic investigator helps pick up the pace. As the investigation gets underway, it becomes apparent that there is more to this story than two spontaneous acts of murder… 🤔could this have been deliberately orchestrated??? And here the mystery unfolds.
A mystery with a bit of Christmas frill, this novella gets 2.5 ⭐️ ⭐️✨rounded to 3⭐️. An easy read to fills some space, if that is what you’re needing!
Thank you NetGalley and the publishers for this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
NOW AVAILABLE!
Peter Swanson started my love of thrillers with “A Kind Worth Killing” so when I get an ARC of one of his books-it goes straight to the top of my TBR-even if I am reading a 128 page Christmas novella in March! ☺️
“This is a Christmas Story but it doesn’t begin at Christmas”
Author Nicholas Child had a two book deal with his Publisher. “Dark at its Rising” was about a Detective who since returning from WW1 believes that he is dead. The first book had respectable sales-but the sequel did not-and he didn’t get a second deal.
His agent offers him an opportunity that he can’t pass up! He is being sent to spend the holidays at the Seaside Cape Cod mansion of her other client, Marco Tavares, to help him finish the long-overdue follow-up to his bestselling novel, “The Girl at the Door.” (Remember when all thrillers had the word GIRL in the title?) 😆
“This is a Christmas Story but it is NOT Charles Dickens”
But when Nicholas arrives, he discovers he is there alongside many other guests-most of whom HATE the HOST-and it feels like he is being dropped into the middle of a mystery novel, or a game of Clue. There is even a room with assorted weapons hanging on the wall.
And, it’s starting to feel like a SET-UP.
“This is a Christmas story-one that starts at Christmas time.” (But it isn’t fit for the Hallmark channel)
As always, I enjoyed my time spent with the ALWAYS ENTERTAINING Peter Swanson-this is my kind of Christmas story!
A HUGE THANK YOU to William Morrow for the gifted ARC provided through NetGalley! As always, these are my candid thoughts!
Peter Swanson started my love of thrillers with “A Kind Worth Killing” so when I get an ARC of one of his books-it goes straight to the top of my TBR-even if I am reading a 128 page Christmas novella in March! ☺️
“This is a Christmas Story but it doesn’t begin at Christmas”
Author Nicholas Child had a two book deal with his Publisher. “Dark at its Rising” was about a Detective who since returning from WW1 believes that he is dead. The first book had respectable sales-but the sequel did not-and he didn’t get a second deal.
His agent offers him an opportunity that he can’t pass up! He is being sent to spend the holidays at the Seaside Cape Cod mansion of her other client, Marco Tavares, to help him finish the long-overdue follow-up to his bestselling novel, “The Girl at the Door.” (Remember when all thrillers had the word GIRL in the title?) 😆
“This is a Christmas Story but it is NOT Charles Dickens”
But when Nicholas arrives, he discovers he is there alongside many other guests-most of whom HATE the HOST-and it feels like he is being dropped into the middle of a mystery novel, or a game of Clue. There is even a room with assorted weapons hanging on the wall.
And, it’s starting to feel like a SET-UP.
“This is a Christmas story-one that starts at Christmas time.” (But it isn’t fit for the Hallmark channel)
As always, I enjoyed my time spent with the ALWAYS ENTERTAINING Peter Swanson-this is my kind of Christmas story!
A HUGE THANK YOU to William Morrow for the gifted ARC provided through NetGalley! As always, these are my candid thoughts!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
As always Peter Sawnson, a definite auto read for me, doesn’t disappoint. This is a creepy and fun novella with a Clue like ending. I thank Netgalley and William Morrow for the opportunity to read and review this book. All opinions are mine alone.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
There's nothing quite like diving into short, quick novellas during the holiday season! With all the preparations and limited time to wrap up our reading goals, who has the hours to spend on a full-length novel? This makes novellas the perfect gift for someone special!
Another creepy holiday novella follows young writer Nicholas Child, sent to a Cape Cod mansion to help novelist Marco Tavares finish his overdue book. The festive atmosphere is shattered when two bodies are discovered, leading Nicholas to suspect foul play among the guests, each with potential motives. As Christmas approaches, he must unravel the mystery before the killer strikes again...
What I really appreciate is the brief character list provided at the start. In a novella, there simply isn’t enough time to fully explore every character, so having a quick reference is fantastic. It’s like having a menu of characters to refer back to! Nicholas stands out as a nice guy with a mysterious past, and as the story unfolds, we learn about his complicated relationship with Marco. But the intrigue doesn’t stop there; it also reveals how the others are intertwined with Marco's story. Secrets are waiting to be uncovered, and you won’t want to miss out on the excitement!
This novella presents a thrilling locked-room murder mystery featuring a cast of intriguing characters, each with their own history. It definitely gave off those Agatha Christie vibes! Several twists caught me completely off guard and the ending had me laughing out loud! Well done and beautifully executed! Just imagine what happens when you host a Christmas gathering, and everyone has a secret to keep. It’s bound to lead to someone turning up dead!
This novella is ideal for anyone who is busy but still wants something to read. It unfolds at a slow burn yet keeps you engaged with unexpected twists along the way. It would make a perfect holiday gift! I can’t wait to see this book in print and enjoy its binding! So, get cozy and get ready to step into the role of a detective alongside characters who all have motives for murder. I just hope my Christmas table isn’t filled with enemies—maybe I should check! Ha!
Thank you, William Morrow and NetGalley, for the DRC copy. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Another creepy holiday novella follows young writer Nicholas Child, sent to a Cape Cod mansion to help novelist Marco Tavares finish his overdue book. The festive atmosphere is shattered when two bodies are discovered, leading Nicholas to suspect foul play among the guests, each with potential motives. As Christmas approaches, he must unravel the mystery before the killer strikes again...
What I really appreciate is the brief character list provided at the start. In a novella, there simply isn’t enough time to fully explore every character, so having a quick reference is fantastic. It’s like having a menu of characters to refer back to! Nicholas stands out as a nice guy with a mysterious past, and as the story unfolds, we learn about his complicated relationship with Marco. But the intrigue doesn’t stop there; it also reveals how the others are intertwined with Marco's story. Secrets are waiting to be uncovered, and you won’t want to miss out on the excitement!
This novella presents a thrilling locked-room murder mystery featuring a cast of intriguing characters, each with their own history. It definitely gave off those Agatha Christie vibes! Several twists caught me completely off guard and the ending had me laughing out loud! Well done and beautifully executed! Just imagine what happens when you host a Christmas gathering, and everyone has a secret to keep. It’s bound to lead to someone turning up dead!
This novella is ideal for anyone who is busy but still wants something to read. It unfolds at a slow burn yet keeps you engaged with unexpected twists along the way. It would make a perfect holiday gift! I can’t wait to see this book in print and enjoy its binding! So, get cozy and get ready to step into the role of a detective alongside characters who all have motives for murder. I just hope my Christmas table isn’t filled with enemies—maybe I should check! Ha!
Thank you, William Morrow and NetGalley, for the DRC copy. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
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October 15, 2026Every holiday season I try to read a few Christmas mysteries. Back in 2023, I read The Christmas Guest, another Peter Swanson novella.
Swanson is back with a new holiday offering, Do You See What I See, and I highly recommend it to readers looking for a quick but compelling holiday mystery.
Do You See What I See is centered around one of my favorite recent tropes: the struggling writer who is invited to help a bestselling author finish a book (hello, Verity!) So Nicholas agrees to travel to Cape Cod over the holidays and help Marco finish his book.
The book includes an accusation of idea-stealing, epistolary elements, Daphne du Maurier references, and a very "meta" feel. It's clever and fun and surprisingly well-developed for a 128 page story.
Swanson is back with a new holiday offering, Do You See What I See, and I highly recommend it to readers looking for a quick but compelling holiday mystery.
Do You See What I See is centered around one of my favorite recent tropes: the struggling writer who is invited to help a bestselling author finish a book (hello, Verity!) So Nicholas agrees to travel to Cape Cod over the holidays and help Marco finish his book.
The book includes an accusation of idea-stealing, epistolary elements, Daphne du Maurier references, and a very "meta" feel. It's clever and fun and surprisingly well-developed for a 128 page story.
October 11, 2026
A perfect mystery for the Holiday shelf! Clever, quick and twisty. . . .writers, 9 slippery characters, with a perfect Grinchy ending leaving this reader with a look for Swanson's next book.
*A sincere thank you to Peter Swanson, William Morrow, and NetGalley for an ARC to read and review independently.* #DoYouSeeWhatISee #NetGalley 26|52:14c
*A sincere thank you to Peter Swanson, William Morrow, and NetGalley for an ARC to read and review independently.* #DoYouSeeWhatISee #NetGalley 26|52:14c
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you William Morrow and Netgalley for the free digital copy!
Of course I jumped at the chance to read this Christmas novella as Peter Swanson is one of my favorite thriller authors. If you’ve read his other books, you’ll appreciate his signature writing style in this one. A murder mystery to keep you entertained during the busy and often stressful holiday season.
Nicholas Child is a struggling writer and could definitely use some money. So that’s why he agrees to help out Marco, a bestselling novelist, with his next book. He arrives at Marco’s Cape Cod mansion and will be spending the holidays with him and his family and some other guests. Things take a dark turn when some people turn up dead. Looks like we got a whodunit to solve.
Peter Swanson has a knack for coming up with characters that aren’t all that likable but yet you want to follow them anyway. It’s a quick read with a twist or two. Maybe not mind blowing but still a satisfying read. I hope he continues to churn out these novellas every so often. They are a welcome addition to a field that’s dominated by holiday romances.
Of course I jumped at the chance to read this Christmas novella as Peter Swanson is one of my favorite thriller authors. If you’ve read his other books, you’ll appreciate his signature writing style in this one. A murder mystery to keep you entertained during the busy and often stressful holiday season.
Nicholas Child is a struggling writer and could definitely use some money. So that’s why he agrees to help out Marco, a bestselling novelist, with his next book. He arrives at Marco’s Cape Cod mansion and will be spending the holidays with him and his family and some other guests. Things take a dark turn when some people turn up dead. Looks like we got a whodunit to solve.
Peter Swanson has a knack for coming up with characters that aren’t all that likable but yet you want to follow them anyway. It’s a quick read with a twist or two. Maybe not mind blowing but still a satisfying read. I hope he continues to churn out these novellas every so often. They are a welcome addition to a field that’s dominated by holiday romances.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This thriller was just okay for me. I loved the many Christmassy bits throughout this book, but found the ending and plot delivery a little lackluster, especially coming from this author who typically wows me!
Thank you to NetGalley for this ARC. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Thank you to NetGalley for this ARC. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
The second Nicholas walked into that Cape Cod mansion I wanted to text somebody, "Absolutely not." You've got a bestselling author with an ego the size of the Christmas tree, a wife sleeping in another room, an ex-girlfriend, a jealous husband, a best friend who's had enough, a sister who looks like she'd rather be literally anywhere else, another writer convinced his career was stolen, and Grandma just quietly existing while chaos unfolds around her. That's not a holiday gathering. That's a police report waiting for a date and time.
Poor Nicholas is just trying to salvage his own writing career. His agent sends him there to help Marco finish a book, and somehow he ends up trapped inside what feels like someone mashed together Clue and the world's most dysfunctional Christmas dinner. This man accepted a ghostwriting job and accidentally wandered into an Agatha Christie fever dream.
Marco is also one of those people who somehow manages to be exhausting even when he's not speaking. Every conversation made me understand another person's motive. By the time everyone had settled in, I was looking around that house thinking, "Honestly... if the detective arrests the entire guest list, I get it."
Then the bodies show up, and suddenly Nicholas has to explain everything to the police. Except he's a writer, so naturally he cannot tell one straightforward story like a normal person. He has to keep circling back, adding details, remembering things, changing the picture, and every time I thought, "Oh, NOW I know what's happening," another piece slid into place and made me question the last fifty pages all over again.
I also loved that everybody in that house seemed painfully aware they were living inside the setup for a murder mystery. Nobody was behaving like this was normal. They all kept looking around with the exact energy of people realizing, "Oh... we're definitely the suspects." Honestly, that self-awareness made the whole thing even more fun.
The emotional part that snuck up on me was Nicholas. Underneath all the murders and literary drama, he's just a guy whose career has stalled, trying to convince himself this invitation is a second chance instead of another reminder that somebody else got the life he wanted. That landed harder than I expected. It made him feel like the only person in the mansion who wasn't constantly trying to win some weird emotional competition.
I did keep wishing this had a little more room to breathe. There were moments where I wanted to spend another chapter with these gloriously suspicious weirdos before the story sprinted to the next reveal. Then again... maybe that's part of the charm. Nobody overstays their welcome. Except Marco. Marco overstays everyone's welcome.
By the end I had changed my theory more times than Nicholas rewrote his version of events. Every time I decided I knew who was responsible, someone else wandered into the room looking deeply incriminating. It felt like trying to solve a family argument where literally every relative has receipts.
This landed at 3.5 stars for me. Give me a seaside mansion, Christmas lights, deeply messy writers, enough grudges to fill an entire publishing catalog, and a locked-room-style mystery where absolutely nobody should've accepted the invitation, and I'm having a good time.
Merry Mayhem Prize: For Hosting the Least Relaxing Christmas Writer's Retreat in Human History
Thank you to William Morrow and NetGalley for the ARC. Next time someone invites me to a gorgeous seaside mansion for Christmas, my first question is going to be, "How many people here secretly hate the host?"
Poor Nicholas is just trying to salvage his own writing career. His agent sends him there to help Marco finish a book, and somehow he ends up trapped inside what feels like someone mashed together Clue and the world's most dysfunctional Christmas dinner. This man accepted a ghostwriting job and accidentally wandered into an Agatha Christie fever dream.
Marco is also one of those people who somehow manages to be exhausting even when he's not speaking. Every conversation made me understand another person's motive. By the time everyone had settled in, I was looking around that house thinking, "Honestly... if the detective arrests the entire guest list, I get it."
Then the bodies show up, and suddenly Nicholas has to explain everything to the police. Except he's a writer, so naturally he cannot tell one straightforward story like a normal person. He has to keep circling back, adding details, remembering things, changing the picture, and every time I thought, "Oh, NOW I know what's happening," another piece slid into place and made me question the last fifty pages all over again.
I also loved that everybody in that house seemed painfully aware they were living inside the setup for a murder mystery. Nobody was behaving like this was normal. They all kept looking around with the exact energy of people realizing, "Oh... we're definitely the suspects." Honestly, that self-awareness made the whole thing even more fun.
The emotional part that snuck up on me was Nicholas. Underneath all the murders and literary drama, he's just a guy whose career has stalled, trying to convince himself this invitation is a second chance instead of another reminder that somebody else got the life he wanted. That landed harder than I expected. It made him feel like the only person in the mansion who wasn't constantly trying to win some weird emotional competition.
I did keep wishing this had a little more room to breathe. There were moments where I wanted to spend another chapter with these gloriously suspicious weirdos before the story sprinted to the next reveal. Then again... maybe that's part of the charm. Nobody overstays their welcome. Except Marco. Marco overstays everyone's welcome.
By the end I had changed my theory more times than Nicholas rewrote his version of events. Every time I decided I knew who was responsible, someone else wandered into the room looking deeply incriminating. It felt like trying to solve a family argument where literally every relative has receipts.
This landed at 3.5 stars for me. Give me a seaside mansion, Christmas lights, deeply messy writers, enough grudges to fill an entire publishing catalog, and a locked-room-style mystery where absolutely nobody should've accepted the invitation, and I'm having a good time.
Merry Mayhem Prize: For Hosting the Least Relaxing Christmas Writer's Retreat in Human History
Thank you to William Morrow and NetGalley for the ARC. Next time someone invites me to a gorgeous seaside mansion for Christmas, my first question is going to be, "How many people here secretly hate the host?"
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