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A Year-Round Christmas Mystery #2
We Wish You a Murderous Christmas
A grinch is spoiling the holiday cheer and causing fear in the latest from the author of Rest Ye Murdered Gentlemen...
It’s Christmastime three hundred sixty-five days a year in Rudolph, New York, and as Christmas Day approaches, shop owner Merry Wilkinson is enjoying a rare evening off at the Yuletide Inn when she runs into owners Grace and Jack Olsen. With Jack's health failing, Merry is relieved to hear that his son Gord will be taking over the day-to-day running of the Inn.
But then Gord reveals that his new plans have no room for Christmas at the Inn, and Merry and the other shopkeepers start to fret about the effect a bland franchise hotel could have on their livelihoods.
When Gord is found stabbed to death, there’s an entire town of potential suspects—and it’s up to Merry to find whoever brought homicide home for the holidays...
It’s Christmastime three hundred sixty-five days a year in Rudolph, New York, and as Christmas Day approaches, shop owner Merry Wilkinson is enjoying a rare evening off at the Yuletide Inn when she runs into owners Grace and Jack Olsen. With Jack's health failing, Merry is relieved to hear that his son Gord will be taking over the day-to-day running of the Inn.
But then Gord reveals that his new plans have no room for Christmas at the Inn, and Merry and the other shopkeepers start to fret about the effect a bland franchise hotel could have on their livelihoods.
When Gord is found stabbed to death, there’s an entire town of potential suspects—and it’s up to Merry to find whoever brought homicide home for the holidays...
299 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 1, 2016
243 people are currently reading
1924 people want to read
About the author
Vicki Delany
62 books1,913 followers“It’s a crime not to read Delany,” so says the London Free Press.
Vicki Delany is one of Canada’s most varied and prolific crime writers.
She is the author of four cozy mystery series: The Tea by the Sea series from Kensington Books, the Sherlock Holmes Bookshop series from Crooked Lane and the Year Round Christmas series from Penguin. Under the pen name of Eva Gates she writes the Lighthouse Library Series.
Visit Vicki at www.vickidelany.com , www.facebook.com/evagatesauthor, and twitter: @vickidelany
Vicki is part of Mystery Lovers Kitchen (http://www.mysteryloverskitchen.com) and Killer Characters (http://www.killercharacters.com)
Visit Vicki at www.vickidelany.com
Vicki Delany is one of Canada’s most varied and prolific crime writers.
She is the author of four cozy mystery series: The Tea by the Sea series from Kensington Books, the Sherlock Holmes Bookshop series from Crooked Lane and the Year Round Christmas series from Penguin. Under the pen name of Eva Gates she writes the Lighthouse Library Series.
Visit Vicki at www.vickidelany.com , www.facebook.com/evagatesauthor, and twitter: @vickidelany
Vicki is part of Mystery Lovers Kitchen (http://www.mysteryloverskitchen.com) and Killer Characters (http://www.killercharacters.com)
Visit Vicki at www.vickidelany.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 343 reviews
May 11, 2022
4+ stars to Vicki Delany's We Wish You a Murderous Christmas, her second novel in the "Year-Round Christmas Mystery" cozy series. Whether it's Christmastime or not, you need to unwrap this gift and dive into the great fun packaged into this holiday treat.
Story
Rudolph, New York, also known as America’s Christmas Town, is home to the famous Yuletide Inn which has been a staple of this adorable village for years. When one of the owners has a heart attack, his son Gord moves back home to help take care of his father and the Inn until he recuperates. Unfortunately, Gord hasn’t changed since he was a kid growing up in Rudolph and still has a ruthless, money-hungry attitude which leads to one of his enemies stabbing him with a knife from the Yuletide Inn. Gord was secretly looking for ways to cut costs and make the Yuletide appear even more profitable for a potential buyer.
Merry Wilkinson, daughter of Rudolph’s previous mayor, also moved home recently but she came back full of Christmas spirit hoping to help revive the town and grow their tourist industry. When her father (also known as the town’s Santa Claus) is suspected of murdering Gord in support of his long-time friend who had a heart attack, Merry is on the case. She conducts her own “off the books” investigation working closely with her friends and family to try to uncover as much about Gord’s life back in California before he moved home to Rudolph.
With a cast of at least 6 to 8 suspects, including a rival town that hopes to sink Rudolph so they can be the tourist capital of upstate NY, Merry has her hands full trying to figure out who is telling the truth and who lacks all Christmas spirit. Add a few side stories (blossoming romance with 2 suitors, a hunky new chef who’s lusting after her best friend, a Santa Claus being fired from his job due to being the primary suspect and the on-going battles with the current mayor and a rival shop owner) and you’ve got quite a mystery to solve.
In the end, Merry of course solves the case with her friends and family’s help, but it ends in a risky unexpected confrontation where someone pulls a weapon with intent to harm Merry and her family. She survives, helps the local police capture the criminal and also walks right into the next mystery about to unfold in the third book to launch in this enjoyable series.
Strengths
1. The cast of characters is dynamic and complex. Sometimes an author will create too few characters or cast too wide a net such that you can’t keep track of all the options. Even with 6 to 8 potential suspects in this story, each person is well-described, has distinct motives and pops up throughout the stories in all the right places. It’s easy to keep track of everyone which also makes it very easy to figure out who you like and who you don’t like.
2. Who doesn’t love Christmas? Ok, so if you don’t, then why are you reading this book? Nevertheless… it’s the perfect balance of story and backdrop setting: you can enjoy the story without realizing it’s all about Christmas or you can totally immerse yourself in the drama and mystique of the holiday. The settings and descriptions really add to the story and help you believe in a town that thinks about Christmas all year long. You want to run out now to visit it even though it’s Halloween (OK, it is for me when I just read the book)… but you also want to meet the people and see the village store windows.
3. The story is complex. It winds around in all the right places. And it drops tons of red herrings not only in this book, but back in book 1. (If you haven’t read book 1 in this series, you MUST read that one first and then read this one – you’ll enjoy it even more knowing what you missed previously).
Suggestions
1. The character of Jackie… I’m a little uncertain of how I feel about her. In the first book, I liked her even when she occasionally rubbed me the wrong way in how she treated Merry, her boss. I blamed it on her boyfriend’s (Kyle) influence; however, in this book, Jackie supported Kyle too much over the whole replacement Santa storyline. I am not sure if I’m supposed to like her or dislike her – and I’d like to figure that out sooner rather than later. Perhaps she’s being saved for a future book, which would be fine – but I’d like to see a different balance here -- either good or bad. There are already a few other women who are part love / part hate (Betty, Sue-Anne, etc.)
2. I want more of Merry’s siblings! We hear about the three of them but never see them. Get them to Rudolph soon please…..
Final Thoughts
As far as cozies go, this one is very good. You can immerse yourself in the entire book and really feel as if you are part of the story and the setting. If I had to pick a cozy series that would help get more readers to the genre, this could be an option. Readers would have to be good with a “Christmas” theme, but as far as characters, plot, setting, romance, fun, et al, this is at the top. If you read book 1 and were on the fence, you must check out book 2. If you haven’t read this series, start with book 1 (Rest Ye Murdered Gentlemen) and then read this one. It’ll take a few hours for each book and it’s well worth it.
Story
Rudolph, New York, also known as America’s Christmas Town, is home to the famous Yuletide Inn which has been a staple of this adorable village for years. When one of the owners has a heart attack, his son Gord moves back home to help take care of his father and the Inn until he recuperates. Unfortunately, Gord hasn’t changed since he was a kid growing up in Rudolph and still has a ruthless, money-hungry attitude which leads to one of his enemies stabbing him with a knife from the Yuletide Inn. Gord was secretly looking for ways to cut costs and make the Yuletide appear even more profitable for a potential buyer.
Merry Wilkinson, daughter of Rudolph’s previous mayor, also moved home recently but she came back full of Christmas spirit hoping to help revive the town and grow their tourist industry. When her father (also known as the town’s Santa Claus) is suspected of murdering Gord in support of his long-time friend who had a heart attack, Merry is on the case. She conducts her own “off the books” investigation working closely with her friends and family to try to uncover as much about Gord’s life back in California before he moved home to Rudolph.
With a cast of at least 6 to 8 suspects, including a rival town that hopes to sink Rudolph so they can be the tourist capital of upstate NY, Merry has her hands full trying to figure out who is telling the truth and who lacks all Christmas spirit. Add a few side stories (blossoming romance with 2 suitors, a hunky new chef who’s lusting after her best friend, a Santa Claus being fired from his job due to being the primary suspect and the on-going battles with the current mayor and a rival shop owner) and you’ve got quite a mystery to solve.
In the end, Merry of course solves the case with her friends and family’s help, but it ends in a risky unexpected confrontation where someone pulls a weapon with intent to harm Merry and her family. She survives, helps the local police capture the criminal and also walks right into the next mystery about to unfold in the third book to launch in this enjoyable series.
Strengths
1. The cast of characters is dynamic and complex. Sometimes an author will create too few characters or cast too wide a net such that you can’t keep track of all the options. Even with 6 to 8 potential suspects in this story, each person is well-described, has distinct motives and pops up throughout the stories in all the right places. It’s easy to keep track of everyone which also makes it very easy to figure out who you like and who you don’t like.
2. Who doesn’t love Christmas? Ok, so if you don’t, then why are you reading this book? Nevertheless… it’s the perfect balance of story and backdrop setting: you can enjoy the story without realizing it’s all about Christmas or you can totally immerse yourself in the drama and mystique of the holiday. The settings and descriptions really add to the story and help you believe in a town that thinks about Christmas all year long. You want to run out now to visit it even though it’s Halloween (OK, it is for me when I just read the book)… but you also want to meet the people and see the village store windows.
3. The story is complex. It winds around in all the right places. And it drops tons of red herrings not only in this book, but back in book 1. (If you haven’t read book 1 in this series, you MUST read that one first and then read this one – you’ll enjoy it even more knowing what you missed previously).
Suggestions
1. The character of Jackie… I’m a little uncertain of how I feel about her. In the first book, I liked her even when she occasionally rubbed me the wrong way in how she treated Merry, her boss. I blamed it on her boyfriend’s (Kyle) influence; however, in this book, Jackie supported Kyle too much over the whole replacement Santa storyline. I am not sure if I’m supposed to like her or dislike her – and I’d like to figure that out sooner rather than later. Perhaps she’s being saved for a future book, which would be fine – but I’d like to see a different balance here -- either good or bad. There are already a few other women who are part love / part hate (Betty, Sue-Anne, etc.)
2. I want more of Merry’s siblings! We hear about the three of them but never see them. Get them to Rudolph soon please…..
Final Thoughts
As far as cozies go, this one is very good. You can immerse yourself in the entire book and really feel as if you are part of the story and the setting. If I had to pick a cozy series that would help get more readers to the genre, this could be an option. Readers would have to be good with a “Christmas” theme, but as far as characters, plot, setting, romance, fun, et al, this is at the top. If you read book 1 and were on the fence, you must check out book 2. If you haven’t read this series, start with book 1 (Rest Ye Murdered Gentlemen) and then read this one. It’ll take a few hours for each book and it’s well worth it.
December 15, 2024
I'm back in Rudolph, New York with the second book in this series. It's a good solid cozy-mystery and like the first book, I had no clue as to who the baddie was or why.
Christmas Town is a great rep, but when the weather doesn't cooperate, times can the tough in December. When the owner of the high-end hotel and restaurant has a heart attack his bully of a son takes over and it's just a matter of time before someone takes him out.
Merry has a lot of suspects to choose from including her own father and best friend.
Christmas Town is a great rep, but when the weather doesn't cooperate, times can the tough in December. When the owner of the high-end hotel and restaurant has a heart attack his bully of a son takes over and it's just a matter of time before someone takes him out.
Merry has a lot of suspects to choose from including her own father and best friend.
January 7, 2018
Great Christmas mystery. Will read more by this author.
December 11, 2025
This second book in the series finds us back in Rudolph, New York. The town promotes Christmas all year, but as the holiday approaches they are in full swing. Merry is busy at her shop, but joins her parents and friends for dinner at the Inn. Things have been in upheaval since the owner’s heart attack, with his son taking over running it.
When the son is found dead, there are lots of suspects. One of the primary suspects is her father Noel, who plays Santa each year for the celebration. Merry is trying to solve the murder to save the festivities.
It’s a fun cozy holiday read. My only irritation was the relationship between Merry and her employee. It’s fine for the relationship to be casual, but they occasionally bicker with each other.
When the son is found dead, there are lots of suspects. One of the primary suspects is her father Noel, who plays Santa each year for the celebration. Merry is trying to solve the murder to save the festivities.
It’s a fun cozy holiday read. My only irritation was the relationship between Merry and her employee. It’s fine for the relationship to be casual, but they occasionally bicker with each other.
December 4, 2016
Dollycas’s Thoughts
Again the wonderful cover drew me right into this book and the story held me tight.
Merry Wilkinson, owner of Mrs. Claus’s Treasures, and the rest of the town of Rudolph is getting ready for Christmas. The Yuletide Inn is a popular place to gather and Merry’s parents are best friends with the owners, Grace and Jack Olsen. After having dinner together Jack is rushed to the hospital for what looks to be a heart attack. With Jack out of commission for awhile and it being the busiest time of year, his son Gord and his wife come to Rudolph to help. But Gord is not happy just running the hotel. He has big plans that will not only change things at the inn but could change things for all of Rudolph. When Gord it found dead, there are plenty of suspects, even Santa Claus. Merry wants Christmas to shine without a murder overshadowing everyone’s festivities so sets out to catch this Grinch herself.
I love this town and I love these characters.
I want to visit Rudolph right now. What a special place to celebrate the holidays.
Vicki Delany’s characters are so well developed they leap right off the pages and into your heart. Her dad, former mayor, and resident Santa Claus leads the town in a special way. Everyone loves him and wants to work with him to keep the town a happy place even when there is a murderer on the loose. I should say everyone, but the current mayor. She does get her nose out of joint when people defer to him instead of her. With daughter’s named Merry, Eve, and Carol, there is no doubting Noel Wilkerson loves Christmas. Guess when his birthday is? One of the characters, Jackie, Merry’s employee, is a bit Scrooge-ish, in the way she treats Merry, but Merry does leave her on her own quite a bit as she sleuths out the killer.
Delany balances the Christmas theme with a magnificent mystery. With pretzel like twists and turns the reader is really kept on their stocking footed toes. I was so surprised at who the culprit actually was, I had no inkling at all. Love, love, love when that happens.
The author also adds just the right amount of romantic and humorous elements to the story.
This story checks all my cozy boxes and having it set at Christmas time in a wondrous Christmas village/town puts it over the top from A Perfect Escape to Paradise. Thank you Vicki Delaney, you have kicked started my Christmas Season in a grand way!
Again the wonderful cover drew me right into this book and the story held me tight.
Merry Wilkinson, owner of Mrs. Claus’s Treasures, and the rest of the town of Rudolph is getting ready for Christmas. The Yuletide Inn is a popular place to gather and Merry’s parents are best friends with the owners, Grace and Jack Olsen. After having dinner together Jack is rushed to the hospital for what looks to be a heart attack. With Jack out of commission for awhile and it being the busiest time of year, his son Gord and his wife come to Rudolph to help. But Gord is not happy just running the hotel. He has big plans that will not only change things at the inn but could change things for all of Rudolph. When Gord it found dead, there are plenty of suspects, even Santa Claus. Merry wants Christmas to shine without a murder overshadowing everyone’s festivities so sets out to catch this Grinch herself.
I love this town and I love these characters.
I want to visit Rudolph right now. What a special place to celebrate the holidays.
Vicki Delany’s characters are so well developed they leap right off the pages and into your heart. Her dad, former mayor, and resident Santa Claus leads the town in a special way. Everyone loves him and wants to work with him to keep the town a happy place even when there is a murderer on the loose. I should say everyone, but the current mayor. She does get her nose out of joint when people defer to him instead of her. With daughter’s named Merry, Eve, and Carol, there is no doubting Noel Wilkerson loves Christmas. Guess when his birthday is? One of the characters, Jackie, Merry’s employee, is a bit Scrooge-ish, in the way she treats Merry, but Merry does leave her on her own quite a bit as she sleuths out the killer.
Delany balances the Christmas theme with a magnificent mystery. With pretzel like twists and turns the reader is really kept on their stocking footed toes. I was so surprised at who the culprit actually was, I had no inkling at all. Love, love, love when that happens.
The author also adds just the right amount of romantic and humorous elements to the story.
This story checks all my cozy boxes and having it set at Christmas time in a wondrous Christmas village/town puts it over the top from A Perfect Escape to Paradise. Thank you Vicki Delaney, you have kicked started my Christmas Season in a grand way!
December 1, 2020
A fun little cozy Christmas mystery. It's a nice distraction between more substantial books, one of which is coming up for me. So I was practicing avoidance, basically, plus trying to inspire myself to set up my artificial Christmas tree (that part worked).
Vicki Delany is a good writer, but as I have written before she has a formula for at least two of her series. This Year Round Christmas series is SO similar to her Sherlock Holmes Bookshop Mysteries. These Christmas books were written first, so I guess the Bookshop Mysteries are re-runs or at least reworkings of them. Eventually, I'd like to try some of her other writings to see if they are different.
I’ve rated my reading experience as 3 stars, but maybe 3.3 would match a bit better? Your mileage may vary.
Cross posted at my blog:
https://wanda-thenextfifty.blogspot.c...
Vicki Delany is a good writer, but as I have written before she has a formula for at least two of her series. This Year Round Christmas series is SO similar to her Sherlock Holmes Bookshop Mysteries. These Christmas books were written first, so I guess the Bookshop Mysteries are re-runs or at least reworkings of them. Eventually, I'd like to try some of her other writings to see if they are different.
I’ve rated my reading experience as 3 stars, but maybe 3.3 would match a bit better? Your mileage may vary.
Cross posted at my blog:
https://wanda-thenextfifty.blogspot.c...
December 25, 2017
It's almost Christmas in Rudolph, New York and all seems well until Jack, the owner of the Yuletide Inn takes ill and has to turn over the operations of the inn to his disagreeable son Gordon who is all about making big bucks even if it means not having much Christmas spirit. In Rudolph, that is just about unheard of as is not supporting your fellow small businesses.
Gord's murder right before Christmas doesn't make for good publicity for Rudolph but the worst part is that their very own Santa, Merry Wilkinson's dad Noel, is the key person of interest since he seemed to have the most motive for wanting Jack's rotten son dead and was heard threatening him about the changes he wanted to make in the inn's keeping.
Merry sets out to clear her dad's name as well as try to restore some Christmas cheer and good will to the town. The nasty Muddites in the neighboring town aren't making life any easier by sending one of their own reporters into Rudolph and printing all sorts of untrue articles.
This was a great mystery set at Christmas as was the first book. I have the third one as well but I think I might wait till summer to read it since that's when it will take place. There were quite a few good suspects and lots of twists in this one. It kept me on the edge of my seat at times and when the killer was revealed I was blown away! I had never suspected that person. Once the killer was caught though, Christmas was able to continue normally and Noel reclaimed his rightful spot as Rudolph's Santa Claus.
I like how the author didn't tell a lot of details about the first book's storyline which helps in not spoiling the plot of it for those who may have started with this book. She explained a few things in general that went on in the first book.
In the first book it wasn't real clear as to which of the two adoring men that Merry has in her life she would choose to think of in terms of dating or having more than just a friendship with but this book seemed to make that a little bit clearer. There is Russ who is the town newspaper guy, very sweet and caring, always tells Merry to call him no matter what. There is also Adam, the shy and quiet toy maker whom Merry dated in high school. He's also sweet and attentive. You'll just have to read it to see which one, I won't say she exactly picks, but which one she feels is more suited for being her special guy instead of just a friend.
Gord's murder right before Christmas doesn't make for good publicity for Rudolph but the worst part is that their very own Santa, Merry Wilkinson's dad Noel, is the key person of interest since he seemed to have the most motive for wanting Jack's rotten son dead and was heard threatening him about the changes he wanted to make in the inn's keeping.
Merry sets out to clear her dad's name as well as try to restore some Christmas cheer and good will to the town. The nasty Muddites in the neighboring town aren't making life any easier by sending one of their own reporters into Rudolph and printing all sorts of untrue articles.
This was a great mystery set at Christmas as was the first book. I have the third one as well but I think I might wait till summer to read it since that's when it will take place. There were quite a few good suspects and lots of twists in this one. It kept me on the edge of my seat at times and when the killer was revealed I was blown away! I had never suspected that person. Once the killer was caught though, Christmas was able to continue normally and Noel reclaimed his rightful spot as Rudolph's Santa Claus.
I like how the author didn't tell a lot of details about the first book's storyline which helps in not spoiling the plot of it for those who may have started with this book. She explained a few things in general that went on in the first book.
In the first book it wasn't real clear as to which of the two adoring men that Merry has in her life she would choose to think of in terms of dating or having more than just a friendship with but this book seemed to make that a little bit clearer. There is Russ who is the town newspaper guy, very sweet and caring, always tells Merry to call him no matter what. There is also Adam, the shy and quiet toy maker whom Merry dated in high school. He's also sweet and attentive. You'll just have to read it to see which one, I won't say she exactly picks, but which one she feels is more suited for being her special guy instead of just a friend.
May 27, 2020
4.5 stars
If you're in the mood for Christmas or for a cozy mystery, this story is loads of fun. I really appreciated that it's squeaky clean with no profanity at all. The only content is from the issues with the bad guy's depravity but that isn't detailed more than necessary for the crime.
It was fun to try to figure this one out. As the least liked man in town, the murder victim has plenty of natural enemies. Half the town has motive and opportunity.
I'll definitely be reading more in this series and by this author.
If you're in the mood for Christmas or for a cozy mystery, this story is loads of fun. I really appreciated that it's squeaky clean with no profanity at all. The only content is from the issues with the bad guy's depravity but that isn't detailed more than necessary for the crime.
It was fun to try to figure this one out. As the least liked man in town, the murder victim has plenty of natural enemies. Half the town has motive and opportunity.
I'll definitely be reading more in this series and by this author.
December 8, 2019
This is a fun Christmas-themed mystery. It makes you want to visit Mrs. Claus's Treasures and all the other shops in this town. There's nothing like unwinding with a good holiday murder mystery and your favorite hot beverage. I really enjoyed this and had no clue who the murderer was, so I was surprised.
December 30, 2017
Highly enjoyable mystery with a great plot and characters that I loved. The feeling of Christmas was delightful.
September 14, 2023
Is Santa a cold-blooded killer? Someone is definitely trying to make it look like he is and ruin Christmas. Noelle is not really Santa, but he is the town Santa and things are looking mighty grim. Can Merry solve the case before Santa gets sent to the slammer?? A fun Christmas themed cozy mystery set in the charming town of Rudolph, NY otherwise known as Christmastown. Fun characters that are relatable and engaging so you can't wait to see what they are up to in each book. The narrator of the audiobooks does such an outstanding job of bringing the characters to life that you find yourself talking back to them at times! I can't wait to dive into the next book!
December 21, 2019
I’ve enjoyed my second trip to Christmas town. I really like Merry and the other characters. The story was good and I was happy with who the culprit was. There was a nice little twist at the end too. Looking forward to my next visit. #readforkimberly
November 16, 2021
Book 2. I read book 1. Swipe ago. I loved it but I forgot about these series. Christmas here in Rudolph New York was Christmas every day of the year. With Chritmas decorations and contests, and Parades. In this book 2 the Yuletide Inn owner Jack had a heart attack ( but he survived) so he asked ( well his wife Grace stepmother to Jack son) FOrd to help with the inn. But he was trying to take over and let Mini Mark but it out right under Jack nose. Ford wanted to get all the suppliers and baked goods carriers including Merry best friend Vicky to have 50 percent off of her baked goods and Mark a chef of the inn said no you are not going to do that. Then Merry family Her mom and her dad Noah ( a resemblance too the Santa we all grew up with) started questioning Gord and do did Grace ( his stepmom) irene ( Birds wife) was hedging it on the they needed to cut costs too. Well Gord died right around the inn. And there were all of Merry family and Mark and Irene, Grace and Vicky that everyone was looking at for suspect. They too Noel in so he could not play Santa that time. And everyone in town could not believe he would do it. Except some said that was good if he got rid of him. But there might be another angle why Gord got killed. I believe you will like these cute Christmas cozy book series. Love the descriptions of some of Christmas decorations and desserts like ginger bread cake and candy cane cheese cake that Vicky Delany describes.
November 27, 2016
3-1/2 stars.
I enjoyed book 2 in this quaint holiday mystery series. These books are great for holiday season reading when you want more than just a cozy romance story, but not too heavy of a mystery or a story with gore and gruesome details.
I enjoy the characters in this series too, and look forward to seeing how things progress in the next book.
I enjoyed book 2 in this quaint holiday mystery series. These books are great for holiday season reading when you want more than just a cozy romance story, but not too heavy of a mystery or a story with gore and gruesome details.
I enjoy the characters in this series too, and look forward to seeing how things progress in the next book.
December 12, 2018
I very much enjoyed getting to know Merry and the town of Rudolph. That she has a dog helps the story as well.
December 16, 2019
I had forgot how much I enjoyed the town of Rudolph and am happy I took a second visit.
Merry is a delight as an amateur sleuth. She doesn’t mind seeming like a fool if it means finding the killer. Her love for her family and friends is a great asset to the stories. One of the characteristics I like best is she doesn’t let her love triangle go on too long.
This is the perfect book to get you in the holiday spirit even though there is the small issue of a murder. I was kept guessing until the killer was
Merry is a delight as an amateur sleuth. She doesn’t mind seeming like a fool if it means finding the killer. Her love for her family and friends is a great asset to the stories. One of the characteristics I like best is she doesn’t let her love triangle go on too long.
This is the perfect book to get you in the holiday spirit even though there is the small issue of a murder. I was kept guessing until the killer was
January 27, 2018
This second book in the series was fantastic! Great characters, pacing, and all the other elements that make a book well worth reading and then some! This may be a Christmas Town, but I'll read these books any time of year!
November 1, 2016
With merry mayhem and mystery, WE WISH YOU A MURDEROUS CHRISTMAS is like getting the best present under the tree!
I adored the thought of this series when I first heard about it. I absolutely loved book one, REST YE MURDERED GENTLEMEN, and am thrilled to have finally read, WE WISH YOU A MURDEROUS CHRISTMAS.
Author Vicki Delany takes us back to Rudolph, New York, the town where Christmas never sleeps. I seriously need to investigate and find a town like this in reality because I want to live there! Well, you know, without the murder.
I like that author Delany took readers a little way into this story before having the victim killed. Speaking for myself, it gave me the time I needed to really dislike him. So much so, had I been there, I’d have been a suspect as well. ;-)
This wonderfully penned tale had me wrapped up by the end of the first chapter. Reading it was like removing the paper from a beautiful gift. The outside is lovely, but what’s inside is spectacular! With the skill of a true writer, Delany made her words come to life. I could smell the pine, feel the cold on my face, and I had the same sense of urgency to solve the murder as series lead, Merry Wilkinson had. When the reveal came and the book ended, I was satisfied, but also shaken to find myself at home in my chair.
Like a dream you don’t want to wake from, WE WISH YOU A MURDEROUS CHRISTMAS was a book I didn’t want to end.
I adored the thought of this series when I first heard about it. I absolutely loved book one, REST YE MURDERED GENTLEMEN, and am thrilled to have finally read, WE WISH YOU A MURDEROUS CHRISTMAS.
Author Vicki Delany takes us back to Rudolph, New York, the town where Christmas never sleeps. I seriously need to investigate and find a town like this in reality because I want to live there! Well, you know, without the murder.
I like that author Delany took readers a little way into this story before having the victim killed. Speaking for myself, it gave me the time I needed to really dislike him. So much so, had I been there, I’d have been a suspect as well. ;-)
This wonderfully penned tale had me wrapped up by the end of the first chapter. Reading it was like removing the paper from a beautiful gift. The outside is lovely, but what’s inside is spectacular! With the skill of a true writer, Delany made her words come to life. I could smell the pine, feel the cold on my face, and I had the same sense of urgency to solve the murder as series lead, Merry Wilkinson had. When the reveal came and the book ended, I was satisfied, but also shaken to find myself at home in my chair.
Like a dream you don’t want to wake from, WE WISH YOU A MURDEROUS CHRISTMAS was a book I didn’t want to end.
August 16, 2017
I loved this charming sequel to Vicki Delany's first Year-Round Christmas Mystery. The characters blossomed, both the nice ones and the nasty ones. I didn't see the ending coming--it was a delicious shocker. I hope that a long run for this this unique series is tucked into Santa's sack of goodies!
January 15, 2019
I really enjoyed this one and had no idea who the murderer was until it was beginning to be revealed.
December 22, 2018
There's a Grinch in Rudolph, New York, America's Christmas Town. Merry Wilkinson is enjoying dinner with friends and family at the Yuletide Inn when one of it's owners is stuck ill and rushed to the hospital. Everyone in town is concerned and it is relief to hear that the owner's son, Gord, is flying in to help run the Inn. That is until Gord arrives and reveals he has plans for the Inn that have nothing to do with Christmas. Just as Merry and the other shop owners begin to fret about the future of the town, Gord is discovered stabbed to death and Merry's father is the prime suspect. Merry must find out who the murderer is so she can clear her father's name and restore Christmas spirit to Rudolph.
We Wish You a Murderous Christmas is the second in Vicky Delany's A Year Round Christmas Mystery series. It is a nice little cozy mystery with a slightly more serious tone than the first installment. I had absolutely no idea who the murderer was right up until Merry discovered it herself. It was not anyone I expected at all! One of the biggest annoyances is that there is a love triangle for Merry though it appears to be settled at least in Merry's mind by the end of the book.
We Wish You a Murderous Christmas is the second in Vicky Delany's A Year Round Christmas Mystery series. It is a nice little cozy mystery with a slightly more serious tone than the first installment. I had absolutely no idea who the murderer was right up until Merry discovered it herself. It was not anyone I expected at all! One of the biggest annoyances is that there is a love triangle for Merry though it appears to be settled at least in Merry's mind by the end of the book.
December 7, 2018
This time Merry's father is a suspect, so she has to clear him and save the town's Christmas.
What I enjoyed:
* Merry and her parents are cool. I love how her dad just "seems" to know/fix things.
* the townspeople, especially her friend Vicky.
* a good mystery
* a competent police force
What could have been better:
* I despise love triangles
* deluded people
What I enjoyed:
* Merry and her parents are cool. I love how her dad just "seems" to know/fix things.
* the townspeople, especially her friend Vicky.
* a good mystery
* a competent police force
What could have been better:
* I despise love triangles
* deluded people
December 31, 2019
Decisions, decisions.
This is the second book in the Year Round Christmas Mystery series. I'm delighted that I got it in before the end of the year. Jack, the owner of the Yuletide Inn suffers a heart attack and his son Gord steps in to help manage the inn. Gord's idea of helpin is to slash prices and stop using local vendors. Of course, Gord is soon found stabbed to death and Merry jumps in to clear the name of those she loves.
I really enjoy this series. I love the idea of a year round Christmas town. The characters feel like real people that i could be friends with. I like that Merry can be a bit bumbling at times yet still comes up with the right answer.
I am extremely happy that the pending love triangle from the first book seems to be on its way to being resolved. i don't mind a bit of romance in my cozies but please don't make me be on a "team" for the man I prefer. I am interested to see where things may lead with Vicky and the new chef in town.
There were a number of twists and turns in the story that had me suspecting certain people. I almost had the mystery figured out just as it was revealed.
I enjoyed the character building and getting to know the people of Rudolph. I look forward to reading the next book in the series.
#readforkimberly
This is the second book in the Year Round Christmas Mystery series. I'm delighted that I got it in before the end of the year. Jack, the owner of the Yuletide Inn suffers a heart attack and his son Gord steps in to help manage the inn. Gord's idea of helpin is to slash prices and stop using local vendors. Of course, Gord is soon found stabbed to death and Merry jumps in to clear the name of those she loves.
I really enjoy this series. I love the idea of a year round Christmas town. The characters feel like real people that i could be friends with. I like that Merry can be a bit bumbling at times yet still comes up with the right answer.
I am extremely happy that the pending love triangle from the first book seems to be on its way to being resolved. i don't mind a bit of romance in my cozies but please don't make me be on a "team" for the man I prefer. I am interested to see where things may lead with Vicky and the new chef in town.
There were a number of twists and turns in the story that had me suspecting certain people. I almost had the mystery figured out just as it was revealed.
I enjoyed the character building and getting to know the people of Rudolph. I look forward to reading the next book in the series.
#readforkimberly
December 15, 2020
I enjoy this little town of Rudolph. They’re the perfect books to read this time of year, with characters that you endear.
December 9, 2019
#2 in the Year Round Christmas series and an absolute delight!!
The town of Rudolph celebrates Christmas all year round, but when the actual season comes, it's something special. This year however, the owner of the Yuletide Inn suffers a heart attack, and his son Gord steps in to 'help'. But his planned changes do not go over well with most folks, and when Gord is found stabbed to death, there is no shortage of suspects, including Santa!
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. The mystery was well laid out, there was enough character explanation for this to be a stand-alone (I had not read book 1). While there were some references to what happened in book 1, you did not need to know what happened to follow along in book 2.
No annoying love triangles, although the beginnings of what looks like a relationship building. While I did not figure out who the murderer was, it made sense. I did feel as though there were a couple of unfinished bits hanging out there (Gord's wife Irene for instance) but beyond that, it was well put together and executed. Since this was a 2016 release, I am hoping there are more in the series to enjoy!
The town of Rudolph celebrates Christmas all year round, but when the actual season comes, it's something special. This year however, the owner of the Yuletide Inn suffers a heart attack, and his son Gord steps in to 'help'. But his planned changes do not go over well with most folks, and when Gord is found stabbed to death, there is no shortage of suspects, including Santa!
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. The mystery was well laid out, there was enough character explanation for this to be a stand-alone (I had not read book 1). While there were some references to what happened in book 1, you did not need to know what happened to follow along in book 2.
No annoying love triangles, although the beginnings of what looks like a relationship building. While I did not figure out who the murderer was, it made sense. I did feel as though there were a couple of unfinished bits hanging out there (Gord's wife Irene for instance) but beyond that, it was well put together and executed. Since this was a 2016 release, I am hoping there are more in the series to enjoy!
March 7, 2019
Another winning Vicki Delany series! I zipped right through this book and was quite surprised at the ending. Christmas seemed to go by so fast that I enjoyed getting a little of that feeling back!
February 21, 2017
3.5 Stars
Reviewed by: Wendy
Sexual Content: None
Language (Profanity/Slang) Content: Mild
Violent Content: Minimal
Merry Wiklkinson lives in Rudolph NY, a town dedicated to Christmas, all year long. Friends and local owners of the Yuletide Inn, Grace and Jack Olsen are hit hard when Jack has a heart attack. Jack’s son, Gord is then left in charge of the Inn along with Grace while Jack is recovering. But Gord had other ideas, including bringing in a franchise hotel to replace the Inn. He also wants to change the uniqueness of the town, so when Gord turns up dead, there are no lack of suspects including Merry’s dad who was due to play Santa in the local festivities.
We Wish You A Murderous Christmas is an pleasant, appealing mystery with no lack of possible suspects. Gord had many enemies and it didn’t take him long once he was in town to alienate pretty much everyone, including his stepmother Grace.
There are many characters in this story, but not so many that it’s confusing. There is a hint of romance between Merry and two possible suitors and of one between a new chef and Merry’s best friend. The author’s description of the shops really helps to add to the Christmas atmosphere in the town.
The most unlikable characters in the book is Jackie, who works for Merry. She tends to rub you the wrong way, although I am not really sure why. She is a bit hard to figure out. The book works well as a standalone novel, although more insight may be gained into the characters by first reading Rest Ye Murdered Gentlemen. Overall, a good mystery that kept me guessing until the end reveal. I really had no idea “who done it.”
-- WENDY
November 23, 2016
Welcome back to Rudolph, New York, where it is Christmas 365 days each year! We Wish You a Murderous Christmas is the second book in the charming series, A Year-Round Christmas Mystery series, by Vicki Delany. Our story begins in mid-December with Merry and her best friend, Vicky Casey, enjoying a delicious dinner at the Yuletide Inn. After they finish their dinner and are on their way out the door, Merry and Vicky run into Merry’s parents and their friends, Jack and Grace Olsen who are the owners of the Yuletide Inn. Before they can say their goodbyes though, Jack has a heart attack and is rushed to the hospital. Thankfully, Jack will recover, and his son, Gordon or “Gord,” has agreed to come to Rudolph to help run the inn for as long as he is needed. Merry is relieved that the Olsens will have the help they need while Jack recovers from his heart attack but soon realizes that Gord has some big changes in mind…the least of which is to turn the beautiful Inn into a tacky franchise hotel. Merry and the other merchants in town are worried about the impact that this kind of hotel will have on their businesses which creates a whole town full of suspects after Gord is found stabbed to death. Now it’s up to Merry to figure out who really murdered Gord before Christmas is forever ruined in Rudolph. This is an excellent second book in this series with very believable characters, an interesting plot, a little romance, and a wonderfully written mystery that will keep you guessing until the very end. Can’t wait for the third book!
Disclaimer: I received a complimentary advance copy of this book from the author in exchange for a fair and honest review.
Disclaimer: I received a complimentary advance copy of this book from the author in exchange for a fair and honest review.
November 8, 2016
We Wish You A Murderous Christmas is the second book in A Year Round Christmas Mystery series.
Christmas is quickly approaching and Merry is planning a nice quiet meal with her folks and Jack and Grace Olsen, owners of the inn. The Olsen’s have hired a top class chef, Mark Grosse, and the restaurant has been booked solid most evenings. As everyone is enjoying the dinner and conversation, Jack experiences a heart attack and is rushed to the hospital. Jack’s son, Gord, from a previous marriage, and his wife arrive with plans to take over running the inn. Th first thing he does is tell Vicky, owner of Victoria’s Bake Shop, that if she is not willing to lower her prices, she’s out. Then they find out that he is negotiating with a chain of discount motel/hotels and most everyone is up in arms. A couple days later, after having another meal at the inn, Merry, her mother and Russ, editor of the Rudolph Gazette, go for walk in the inn’s garden and come across the lifeless body of Gord.
Merry, with the help of Russ, begin their own investigation into the murder, as Merry’s father and Vicky are high on the list of possible suspects. But without a doubt, with Gord’s plans for the inn, there is no shortage of suspects for them to investigate.
Once again, Ms. Delany weaves a wonderful mystery and also includes a wonderful and believable cast of characters.
Looking forward to reading of more adventures from Rudolph, NY.
Christmas is quickly approaching and Merry is planning a nice quiet meal with her folks and Jack and Grace Olsen, owners of the inn. The Olsen’s have hired a top class chef, Mark Grosse, and the restaurant has been booked solid most evenings. As everyone is enjoying the dinner and conversation, Jack experiences a heart attack and is rushed to the hospital. Jack’s son, Gord, from a previous marriage, and his wife arrive with plans to take over running the inn. Th first thing he does is tell Vicky, owner of Victoria’s Bake Shop, that if she is not willing to lower her prices, she’s out. Then they find out that he is negotiating with a chain of discount motel/hotels and most everyone is up in arms. A couple days later, after having another meal at the inn, Merry, her mother and Russ, editor of the Rudolph Gazette, go for walk in the inn’s garden and come across the lifeless body of Gord.
Merry, with the help of Russ, begin their own investigation into the murder, as Merry’s father and Vicky are high on the list of possible suspects. But without a doubt, with Gord’s plans for the inn, there is no shortage of suspects for them to investigate.
Once again, Ms. Delany weaves a wonderful mystery and also includes a wonderful and believable cast of characters.
Looking forward to reading of more adventures from Rudolph, NY.
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