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Shamelessly Adorable Teddy Bear Mystery #3
Have Yourself a Beary Little Murder
This holiday season, teddy bear shop manager Sasha Silverman must solve the slaying of Santa Bear . . .
Sasha and her sister Maddie are thrilled that the Silver Bear Shop and Factory has won the Teddy Bear Keepsake Contest, which means they get to produce a holiday specialty toy, a wizard bear named "Beary Potter." Promising to be just as magical is Silver Hollow's annual tree-lighting ceremony and village parade. Only one hitch: the parade's mascot, Santa Bear--played by Mayor Cal Bloom--is missing.
After a frantic search among the floats, Bloom is found dead. When the outfit is removed, it's clear the mayor's been electrocuted. Who zapped hizzoner and then stuffed him into his Santa Bear suit? While the police investigate the grisly crime, Sasha attempts to track down the murderer herself, with some help from the Guilty Pleasures Gossip Club. Can they wrap up this case in time for Christmas--or will Sasha meet her own shocking end?
Sasha and her sister Maddie are thrilled that the Silver Bear Shop and Factory has won the Teddy Bear Keepsake Contest, which means they get to produce a holiday specialty toy, a wizard bear named "Beary Potter." Promising to be just as magical is Silver Hollow's annual tree-lighting ceremony and village parade. Only one hitch: the parade's mascot, Santa Bear--played by Mayor Cal Bloom--is missing.
After a frantic search among the floats, Bloom is found dead. When the outfit is removed, it's clear the mayor's been electrocuted. Who zapped hizzoner and then stuffed him into his Santa Bear suit? While the police investigate the grisly crime, Sasha attempts to track down the murderer herself, with some help from the Guilty Pleasures Gossip Club. Can they wrap up this case in time for Christmas--or will Sasha meet her own shocking end?
293 pages, Paperback
First published September 24, 2019
26 people are currently reading
361 people want to read
About the author
Meg Macy
10 books346 followersNational bestselling author Meg Macy is a reader first and foremost. She’s always found comfort, adventure, and connection in books—which might explain why she now writes stories that offer all three.
Best known for her Shamelessly Adorable Teddy Bear Mystery series (Kensington), several Christmas romance novellas with rescue pets, and as one-half of D.E. Ireland, the Agatha Award-nominated duo behind the Eliza Doolittle and Professor Higgins mysteries, Meg has long embraced the cozy end of fiction.
Now, she’s rewriting the rules with a new direction: LGBTQA+ romantic suspense—queer characters in a cozy setting with spice, intrigue, and plenty of emotional payoff. M/M or M/F, traditional or trailblazing, her stories are comfort reads with a twist.
Unique? Yep. Meg loves breaking the rules. She lives with her writing companion, Mr. Whiskers the cat, and prefers pages to parties any day.
Best known for her Shamelessly Adorable Teddy Bear Mystery series (Kensington), several Christmas romance novellas with rescue pets, and as one-half of D.E. Ireland, the Agatha Award-nominated duo behind the Eliza Doolittle and Professor Higgins mysteries, Meg has long embraced the cozy end of fiction.
Now, she’s rewriting the rules with a new direction: LGBTQA+ romantic suspense—queer characters in a cozy setting with spice, intrigue, and plenty of emotional payoff. M/M or M/F, traditional or trailblazing, her stories are comfort reads with a twist.
Unique? Yep. Meg loves breaking the rules. She lives with her writing companion, Mr. Whiskers the cat, and prefers pages to parties any day.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 103 reviews
November 9, 2019
Have Yourself a Beary Little Murder by Meg Macy is the third installment of the cozy Shamelessly Adorable Teddy Bear Mystery series. Each book of this series like most cozies contains it’s own mystery within that will be solved so they can be read as a standalone or in any order if choosing to do so. However, there is some character development that carries over book to book for those reading in order.
The first book of this series introduced Sasha Silverman who after her divorce became the manager of the Silver Bear Shop and Factory which is like a build a bear type of business. Sasha’s parents own the bear factory in the town of Silver Hollow but had retired from working the business turning over the day to day operations to Sasha.
Now Sasha and her sister Maddie are working hard to produce a special bear for the holidays after the Silver Bear Shop and Factory had won the Teddy Bear Keepsake Contest. With a whole holiday festival happening in Silver Hollow things have been rather hectic but when the town mascot Santa Bear is found murdered Sasha finds herself again investigating.
The setting in this series is one of the best things about it, a small town family owned shop that makes and sells teddy bears and caters events centered around them which gives a rather fun vibe. As usual though I sometimes find these a bit slower paced which perhaps could be from a lack of overly quirkiness I enjoy but they are still solid cozy reads in which I’d rate this time at 3 1/2 stars.
I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.com/
The first book of this series introduced Sasha Silverman who after her divorce became the manager of the Silver Bear Shop and Factory which is like a build a bear type of business. Sasha’s parents own the bear factory in the town of Silver Hollow but had retired from working the business turning over the day to day operations to Sasha.
Now Sasha and her sister Maddie are working hard to produce a special bear for the holidays after the Silver Bear Shop and Factory had won the Teddy Bear Keepsake Contest. With a whole holiday festival happening in Silver Hollow things have been rather hectic but when the town mascot Santa Bear is found murdered Sasha finds herself again investigating.
The setting in this series is one of the best things about it, a small town family owned shop that makes and sells teddy bears and caters events centered around them which gives a rather fun vibe. As usual though I sometimes find these a bit slower paced which perhaps could be from a lack of overly quirkiness I enjoy but they are still solid cozy reads in which I’d rate this time at 3 1/2 stars.
I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.com/
September 15, 2019
It's Christmastime in Silver Hollow, Michigan and Sasha Silverman is busy preparing for the Christmas parade when she finds herself caught up in yet another murder investigation. This is a well written Christmas themed cozy. I really liked the festive small-town atmosphere and the main character, Sasha and her family. The plot moved at a very slow pace and it took me a while to fully get into the story. Once the plot picked up, it did manage to hold my interest until the end. The culprit was a surprise to me and I did really like the ending. However, I think this series should be read in order. There is a very large cast of characters and I struggled quite a bit to keep up with everyone. Overall, I recommend this book to anyone looking for a fun Christmas themed cozy. Thank you to NetGalley and the Kensington Books for this ARC. The opinions expressed are my own.
September 25, 2019
This December is proving to be especially busy for Sasha Silverman. Not only are there the usual activities in town, but the Silver Bear Shop and Factory has won a prize with their design for a Beary Potter bear, and they are rushing to meet demand in time for Christmas. So, the last thing that Sasha needs is to get involved in a murder, but that’s just what happens. The highlight of the annual Christmas parade is Santa Bear, and once again this year, the town’s mayor, Cal Bloom, is playing the part. However, with the parade start time drawing near, no one can find him. Sasha and her mother start searching only to find him dead on a bench in his costume. It appears his death wasn’t natural, so what happened to him? How did he get to the park bench?
The book wastes little time in killing off Mayor Bloom, and we get some good clues and suspects along the way to the logical climax. Sasha and her immediate family are strong characters, and it was great to spend time with them again. The suspects are also good characters. Unfortunately, the rest of the characters are hard to keep straight, but that doesn’t impact following the plot, so it didn’t bother me too much. Despite the cute and cuddly nature of Teddy Bears, this series has always had a bit more bite to it for a cozy, and this book is no exception. However, the Christmas setting adds a festival feel to the book, and I really enjoyed that addition. Heck, I wanted to join the company employee Christmas party – it sounded delightful. And I was drooling over some of the goodies they were eating. If you are ready to get in the Christmas spirit a little early, this is the book for you.
NOTE: I received an ARC of this book.
Read my full review at Carstairs Considers.
The book wastes little time in killing off Mayor Bloom, and we get some good clues and suspects along the way to the logical climax. Sasha and her immediate family are strong characters, and it was great to spend time with them again. The suspects are also good characters. Unfortunately, the rest of the characters are hard to keep straight, but that doesn’t impact following the plot, so it didn’t bother me too much. Despite the cute and cuddly nature of Teddy Bears, this series has always had a bit more bite to it for a cozy, and this book is no exception. However, the Christmas setting adds a festival feel to the book, and I really enjoyed that addition. Heck, I wanted to join the company employee Christmas party – it sounded delightful. And I was drooling over some of the goodies they were eating. If you are ready to get in the Christmas spirit a little early, this is the book for you.
NOTE: I received an ARC of this book.
Read my full review at Carstairs Considers.
DNF...I just couldn't get into this one. It was cheesy, WAY too many characters to keep track of, and as soon as one character tried to remove the Santa Bear (groan) suit from the dead body because "the parade MUST go on for the kids"...I was out. 😂😂
September 5, 2019
I merrily read this Christmastime cozy set in beautiful Silver Hollow, Michigan. Author Meg Macy pens another original story and fills it with sparkling visions of holiday cheer! The new bears and the bear-related events are really fun and show the great imagination of Author Macy.
There’s something ‘beary’ suspicious going on in the town where Sasha Silverman’s family’s Silver Bear Shop & Factory is located. The murder mystery was a stunner for me! I loved the sweet ending. Have yourself a merry little Christmas and add this book to your wish list.
I reviewed a digital arc provided by NetGalley and Kensington Publishing. Thank you.
There’s something ‘beary’ suspicious going on in the town where Sasha Silverman’s family’s Silver Bear Shop & Factory is located. The murder mystery was a stunner for me! I loved the sweet ending. Have yourself a merry little Christmas and add this book to your wish list.
I reviewed a digital arc provided by NetGalley and Kensington Publishing. Thank you.
August 25, 2019
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for the chance to read this book!
This is a series that I've heard about, but never had the opportunity to read until now. Coming into this with the third book was a little off putting though because the cast of characters is very large and well established. Most of the time I can fall into the small town rhythm, but this time I found myself lost far too easily.
It didn't help that the events where Sasha could get intel all mashed together as well, and two other characters that had nothing to do with the murder died and thus gave Sasha an excuse to be around some of the suspects. I really felt like this could have been massively condensed, because it just gave a plodding feel to the plot and didn't move things along either. Adding to that, we don't get confirmation a murder has even occurred at all, so we're left with Sasha investigating and trying to draw suspicion from one of her mother's friends while not really having a motivation to do so.
All in all, I liked the setting and the theme for this one, and some of the better fleshed out characters. If I'm going to continue with this series I have to go back and read the first few books though, and maybe the next one won't be set at Christmas and thus won't feel so mushed together (who doesn't have a mushed Christmas these days) I'd also like to see the romance more, especially as Sasha thinks about children often and Jay seems to be back for the next book. I love the covers for this series, they were what first attracted me in!
This was hit and miss, but the murder weapon definitely gave it a boost at the end. Three stars.
This is a series that I've heard about, but never had the opportunity to read until now. Coming into this with the third book was a little off putting though because the cast of characters is very large and well established. Most of the time I can fall into the small town rhythm, but this time I found myself lost far too easily.
It didn't help that the events where Sasha could get intel all mashed together as well, and two other characters that had nothing to do with the murder died and thus gave Sasha an excuse to be around some of the suspects. I really felt like this could have been massively condensed, because it just gave a plodding feel to the plot and didn't move things along either. Adding to that, we don't get confirmation a murder has even occurred at all, so we're left with Sasha investigating and trying to draw suspicion from one of her mother's friends while not really having a motivation to do so.
All in all, I liked the setting and the theme for this one, and some of the better fleshed out characters. If I'm going to continue with this series I have to go back and read the first few books though, and maybe the next one won't be set at Christmas and thus won't feel so mushed together (who doesn't have a mushed Christmas these days) I'd also like to see the romance more, especially as Sasha thinks about children often and Jay seems to be back for the next book. I love the covers for this series, they were what first attracted me in!
This was hit and miss, but the murder weapon definitely gave it a boost at the end. Three stars.
November 24, 2019
Have Yourself a Beary Little Murder was a delightful cozy mystery with a charming Christmas theme and I enjoyed it quite a bit.
With the holiday season in full swing, Sasha Silverman and the rest of the staff at the Silver Bear Shop and Factory are busier than ever. First order of business is preparing for the town’s annual tree-lighting ceremony and parade in which the shop has a float. There’s only one problem; Santa Bear, the parade mascot played by the mayor, is missing. When the mayor is later found dead, electrocuted and stuffed into the bear suit, Sasha begins her own investigation to find the killer. But someone wants Sasha to stop looking and if she’s not careful she could end up the killer’s next target.
The mystery of who killed the mayor was a good one with Sasha discovering a number of possible suspects. Initially Cal Bloom is presented as a well liked man leading you to wonder why anyone would want to kill him. As Sasha investigates him though, it becomes clear that everything was not as it seemed with the mayor and he actually had quite a few enemies. I had a few guesses as to who I thought killed him, but I was pleasantly surprised when the real killer was revealed. But when you find out their identity and their motive, it makes sense that they were the killer. I thought the ending was well done and I liked how everything wrapped up.
I enjoyed the characters in this book even more this time around and I loved getting to see Sasha’s extended friend group helping her work through the puzzle of Bloom’s death. The only character I still have issues with is Sasha’s mother who I find to be overbearing. Sasha’s boyfriend Jay popped up occasionally but their relationship is definitely not the focus of the story which is a nice change from some other cozies I’ve read recently. One extra bit in the book I loved was that after winning the Teddy Bear Keepsake Contest, the shop has exclusive rights to create a special bear for the holidays, a wizard bear named Beary Potter. I loved the concept of the bear and it’s absolutely something I would love to own in real life.
Overall Have Yourself a Beary Little Murder was just as wonderful as the rest of the Shamelessly Adorable Teddy Bear Mystery series and I highly recommend the books if you’re looking for a new cozy series to try.
**I received an advance copy of this book from Netgalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.**
With the holiday season in full swing, Sasha Silverman and the rest of the staff at the Silver Bear Shop and Factory are busier than ever. First order of business is preparing for the town’s annual tree-lighting ceremony and parade in which the shop has a float. There’s only one problem; Santa Bear, the parade mascot played by the mayor, is missing. When the mayor is later found dead, electrocuted and stuffed into the bear suit, Sasha begins her own investigation to find the killer. But someone wants Sasha to stop looking and if she’s not careful she could end up the killer’s next target.
The mystery of who killed the mayor was a good one with Sasha discovering a number of possible suspects. Initially Cal Bloom is presented as a well liked man leading you to wonder why anyone would want to kill him. As Sasha investigates him though, it becomes clear that everything was not as it seemed with the mayor and he actually had quite a few enemies. I had a few guesses as to who I thought killed him, but I was pleasantly surprised when the real killer was revealed. But when you find out their identity and their motive, it makes sense that they were the killer. I thought the ending was well done and I liked how everything wrapped up.
I enjoyed the characters in this book even more this time around and I loved getting to see Sasha’s extended friend group helping her work through the puzzle of Bloom’s death. The only character I still have issues with is Sasha’s mother who I find to be overbearing. Sasha’s boyfriend Jay popped up occasionally but their relationship is definitely not the focus of the story which is a nice change from some other cozies I’ve read recently. One extra bit in the book I loved was that after winning the Teddy Bear Keepsake Contest, the shop has exclusive rights to create a special bear for the holidays, a wizard bear named Beary Potter. I loved the concept of the bear and it’s absolutely something I would love to own in real life.
Overall Have Yourself a Beary Little Murder was just as wonderful as the rest of the Shamelessly Adorable Teddy Bear Mystery series and I highly recommend the books if you’re looking for a new cozy series to try.
**I received an advance copy of this book from Netgalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.**
October 4, 2019
Dollycas’s Thoughts
We arrive in Silver Hollow just in time for the holiday tree-lighting and parade. The folks at the Silver Bear Shop and Factory have been feeling very “beary” because they won a huge contest which means they are producing a special holiday bear that is being sent everywhere. The wizard bear named “Beary Potter” is also popular in Silver Hollow with tons of orders. It’s all hands on deck to be sure every order is fulfilled before Christmas.
Judith Silverman has been roped into organizing this year’s parade. She is a very organized woman but her Santa Bear, aka Mayor Cal Bloom, left to get into his costume but hasn’t returned. Sasha and her mom start a search for the man and find him nearby but he won’t be participating in this year’s parade. It appears he was electrocuted but is found nowhere close to the source. Sasha bearly had time to turn around and now she is right in the middle of another murder investigation. With a little help from her friends/Guilty Pleasures Gossip Club, they may be able to wrap up the case in time for a Beary Merry Christmas.
_____
Finally, in book three, Judith has won me over a little bit. She is still a meddling mom but she had plenty of other things going on that she wasn’t quite so overbearing. Then again Sasha’s romance was cooler this time because Jay was out of town for most of the book and Flynn appears to have moved on. Who knows what the future stories will bring? 🙂 I do love the rest of the family. They continue to evolve, have great senses of humor and their dialogues are so realistic. I really enjoy the way they all work together to create bears that brings joy to so many people.
The mystery this time was unique in that Sasha’s mom actually wanted Sasha to investigate the murder, in fact, she demands it. The evidence is clearly pointing in one direction but Sasha’s digging presents more suspects. Not everyone loved the good mayor. Twists on top of twists, I was totally up in the air until the earth-shattering reveal.
Ms. Macy’s storytelling skills are top-notch. She does introduce several new characters this time and at times it was a little confusing but not so much that it took away from the mystery. The author details the scenes with her words and makes them easy to envision. I was delighted by the story from the first page to the last. All the events sounded like so much fun, sans the killer running around town, of course.
This is a series that I do recommend be read in order. Getting to know the Silverman family, their friends, and the residents of Silver Hollow from the start will ensure maximum bear-filled entertainment.
Have Yourself a Beary Little Murder is a perfect read for mystery lovers this holiday season!
We arrive in Silver Hollow just in time for the holiday tree-lighting and parade. The folks at the Silver Bear Shop and Factory have been feeling very “beary” because they won a huge contest which means they are producing a special holiday bear that is being sent everywhere. The wizard bear named “Beary Potter” is also popular in Silver Hollow with tons of orders. It’s all hands on deck to be sure every order is fulfilled before Christmas.
Judith Silverman has been roped into organizing this year’s parade. She is a very organized woman but her Santa Bear, aka Mayor Cal Bloom, left to get into his costume but hasn’t returned. Sasha and her mom start a search for the man and find him nearby but he won’t be participating in this year’s parade. It appears he was electrocuted but is found nowhere close to the source. Sasha bearly had time to turn around and now she is right in the middle of another murder investigation. With a little help from her friends/Guilty Pleasures Gossip Club, they may be able to wrap up the case in time for a Beary Merry Christmas.
_____
Finally, in book three, Judith has won me over a little bit. She is still a meddling mom but she had plenty of other things going on that she wasn’t quite so overbearing. Then again Sasha’s romance was cooler this time because Jay was out of town for most of the book and Flynn appears to have moved on. Who knows what the future stories will bring? 🙂 I do love the rest of the family. They continue to evolve, have great senses of humor and their dialogues are so realistic. I really enjoy the way they all work together to create bears that brings joy to so many people.
The mystery this time was unique in that Sasha’s mom actually wanted Sasha to investigate the murder, in fact, she demands it. The evidence is clearly pointing in one direction but Sasha’s digging presents more suspects. Not everyone loved the good mayor. Twists on top of twists, I was totally up in the air until the earth-shattering reveal.
Ms. Macy’s storytelling skills are top-notch. She does introduce several new characters this time and at times it was a little confusing but not so much that it took away from the mystery. The author details the scenes with her words and makes them easy to envision. I was delighted by the story from the first page to the last. All the events sounded like so much fun, sans the killer running around town, of course.
This is a series that I do recommend be read in order. Getting to know the Silverman family, their friends, and the residents of Silver Hollow from the start will ensure maximum bear-filled entertainment.
Have Yourself a Beary Little Murder is a perfect read for mystery lovers this holiday season!
September 22, 2019
Sasha Silverman and her family are gearing up for the busy holiday season in Silver Hollow. Not only do they have the Annual Tree Lighting and the Festival of Lights Parade, but Silver Bear Shop won a Teddy Bear Keepsake contest with their entry, Beary Potter. The theme of their sales promotion for the new bear is "The Magic of Christmas.'' Sales are brisk, so the holiday season is going to be busy, busy, busy. It's the day of the lighting and parade...the kickoff of the annual Christmas season. Sasha's mom is coordinating the events. Everything is going perfectly until the parade mascot, Santa Bear, doesn't show up on time. The mayor, Cal Bloom, is supposed to greet the kids, pass out candy and lead the parade.....but the holiday bear is a no-show. Imagine the shock when Sasha and her mother discover the mayor dead -- in the bear suit -- on a park bench. Can Sasha and her group of gossipy pals in Silver Hollow discover who killed the mayor in time to save the holiday season?
I have always liked teddy bears, so I love this cute, cozy mystery series! Have Yourself a Beary Little Murder is the 3rd book in the Shamelessly Adorable Teddy Bear Mystery series. I enjoyed this story just as much as the first two! I couldn't help but feel very sorry for Sasha's mom. She worked so hard to coordinate the huge town event to kick off the holidays....and then someone murders the parade mascot. Oh my....that would be awful!!! Sorry kids....um....santa bear is dead. Yikes!
The mystery moved along at a nice pace and there were plenty of suspects and some surprises to keep my interest going. The front cover is incredibly cute as usual. I like Sasha as a main character. She loves her job and her family and is intelligent, determined and skilled at sleuthing. The quirky side characters make this series a fun one to read, along with the teddy bear background theme. The bears don't overpower the mystery part of the plot.....they just add in a splash of cuteness.
Enjoyable, cute read! I will definitely be eagerly awaiting the next book!
**I voluntarily read an advanced readers copy of this book from Kensington via NetGalley. All opinions expressed are entirely my own.**
I have always liked teddy bears, so I love this cute, cozy mystery series! Have Yourself a Beary Little Murder is the 3rd book in the Shamelessly Adorable Teddy Bear Mystery series. I enjoyed this story just as much as the first two! I couldn't help but feel very sorry for Sasha's mom. She worked so hard to coordinate the huge town event to kick off the holidays....and then someone murders the parade mascot. Oh my....that would be awful!!! Sorry kids....um....santa bear is dead. Yikes!
The mystery moved along at a nice pace and there were plenty of suspects and some surprises to keep my interest going. The front cover is incredibly cute as usual. I like Sasha as a main character. She loves her job and her family and is intelligent, determined and skilled at sleuthing. The quirky side characters make this series a fun one to read, along with the teddy bear background theme. The bears don't overpower the mystery part of the plot.....they just add in a splash of cuteness.
Enjoyable, cute read! I will definitely be eagerly awaiting the next book!
**I voluntarily read an advanced readers copy of this book from Kensington via NetGalley. All opinions expressed are entirely my own.**
October 5, 2019
The small town of Silver Hollow is preparing for the Christmas season. Sasha Silverman, co-owner of her family business, the Silver Bear Shop has her hands full this holiday season. Her shop has to produce a wizard bear “Beary Potter” in time for Christmas orders and they are receiving many many orders. That’s not all that’s going on - it’s time for the annual tree-lighting and parade with the star of the show Mayor Cal Bloom as Santa Bear. Problem is, he doesn’t show up for the festivities.
Sasha, her ex, and her mother discover the Mayor’s body wearing the Santa Bear costume. At first the police think it was a heart attack, but once an investigation begins, they discover it had to be murder. Everyone loved Cal Bloom. Sasha is determined to find out who would have done such a horrible thing. It doesn’t take long for her to learn that the Mayor wasn’t as beloved as she thought and there is a long list of suspects.
This is the third book in this series. I’ve read them all and have enjoyed them very much. This one is no exception. It’s a pretty big cast of characters and many possible killers amongst them. At times I admit I had problems keeping them all straight. I was shocked at how it ended and “whodunnit”.
The mystery is contained in this book - no cliff hangers but there are mentions of previous murders. I don’t think it would throw a newcomer off, but it’s always more fun to start these series from the beginning. It’s so much better to learn about the main characters from the start. It brings you right into the story.
Sasha is a great, strong character. I’m looking forward to reading more about her romance with Jay. I love the way the author concentrates more on the mystery than the romance, which is exactly how I like my cozy mysteries.
Now I await book #4 in the series.
FTC Disclosure: I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book from NetGalley and the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own.
Sasha, her ex, and her mother discover the Mayor’s body wearing the Santa Bear costume. At first the police think it was a heart attack, but once an investigation begins, they discover it had to be murder. Everyone loved Cal Bloom. Sasha is determined to find out who would have done such a horrible thing. It doesn’t take long for her to learn that the Mayor wasn’t as beloved as she thought and there is a long list of suspects.
This is the third book in this series. I’ve read them all and have enjoyed them very much. This one is no exception. It’s a pretty big cast of characters and many possible killers amongst them. At times I admit I had problems keeping them all straight. I was shocked at how it ended and “whodunnit”.
The mystery is contained in this book - no cliff hangers but there are mentions of previous murders. I don’t think it would throw a newcomer off, but it’s always more fun to start these series from the beginning. It’s so much better to learn about the main characters from the start. It brings you right into the story.
Sasha is a great, strong character. I’m looking forward to reading more about her romance with Jay. I love the way the author concentrates more on the mystery than the romance, which is exactly how I like my cozy mysteries.
Now I await book #4 in the series.
FTC Disclosure: I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book from NetGalley and the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own.
November 20, 2019
Sasha and her sister won the Teddy Bear Keepsake contest so they are overwhelmed with making more of the bear, plus all the Christmas rush and the village parade. The parade’s ascot Santa Bear played by the mayor is missing. He is found dead, electrocuted, the police try to figure out who did it but Sasha gets involved also. Help from her gossip club helps.
October 2, 2019
It's Christmastime in Silver Hollow, Michigan and Sasha Silverman is busy preparing for this year's Christmas parade when she finds herself involved in a murder investigation.
This was a fantastic murder-mystery that was stuffed full to the brim with a fabulous plot and a really good time was had along the way.
I am new to this series but loved this instalment so much that I will be going back to catch up on the previous two books. Meg Macy really did this story justice and the plot lines did not distract from the murder. I adored the festive, small-town atmosphere and the main character, Sasha and her relatives. It was interesting to learn about the factory's holiday party as well as the competition between the bear factories, though there was a very large cast of characters and I struggled occasionally to keep up with everyone. There were plenty of clues to sift through and suspects to consider that would keep even the most ardent of armchair sleuths happy!
The culprit was a surprise to me and I loved the heart-warming ending. Overall, I recommend this book without any hesitation to anyone looking for a Christmas themed cozy.
I received a complimentary digital copy of this novel, at my own request, from Kensington Books via NetGalley. This review is my own unbiased opinion.
This was a fantastic murder-mystery that was stuffed full to the brim with a fabulous plot and a really good time was had along the way.
I am new to this series but loved this instalment so much that I will be going back to catch up on the previous two books. Meg Macy really did this story justice and the plot lines did not distract from the murder. I adored the festive, small-town atmosphere and the main character, Sasha and her relatives. It was interesting to learn about the factory's holiday party as well as the competition between the bear factories, though there was a very large cast of characters and I struggled occasionally to keep up with everyone. There were plenty of clues to sift through and suspects to consider that would keep even the most ardent of armchair sleuths happy!
The culprit was a surprise to me and I loved the heart-warming ending. Overall, I recommend this book without any hesitation to anyone looking for a Christmas themed cozy.
I received a complimentary digital copy of this novel, at my own request, from Kensington Books via NetGalley. This review is my own unbiased opinion.
October 3, 2019
Series: A Teddy Bear Mystery - Book 3
Author: Meg Macy
Genre: Cozy Mystery/Holiday
Publisher: Kensington Books
Page Count: 304
The latest in the cozy series “ A Teddy Bear Mystery,” written by Meg Macy, published by Kensington Books, comes the fantastic holiday book, Have Yourself a Beary Little Murder.
Who doesn’t love teddy bears? Sasha grew up with teddy bears and runs her family's manufacturing shop. But this isn’t the first time there has been a murder connected to the shop or her. This time, however, it could be a real issue when her mother finds the body of Santa bear, aka the mayor, sitting on a park bench. Sasha knows that unless she helps find the killer, Christmas could be ruined for not just her family, but the whole town.
This holiday book, much like the others in this series, is filled with remarkable characters, crazy motives, and suspects that well… wouldn’t typically be considered suspects by most people. Having the victim dressed up as a giant teddy bear gives the story a twist that feels sweet and yet disturbing at the same time. Finding out that the mayor wasn’t the nice guy everyone thought he was, makes the perfect victim. It doesn’t take a genius to figure out who the killer is, but there are plenty of trails to follow that will keep readers second-guessing their conclusions.
Have Yourself a Beary Little Murder is a fast read, a fun holiday book that inspires readers to start looking forward to the holiday season to come and to look at teddy bears in a whole new way. The description of the Harry Potter-inspired wizard teddy bear will send fans scrambling to find a bear just like it for their own. I think readers will get a kick out of reading this cozy and am happy to add it to my holiday collection.
Author: Meg Macy
Genre: Cozy Mystery/Holiday
Publisher: Kensington Books
Page Count: 304
The latest in the cozy series “ A Teddy Bear Mystery,” written by Meg Macy, published by Kensington Books, comes the fantastic holiday book, Have Yourself a Beary Little Murder.
Who doesn’t love teddy bears? Sasha grew up with teddy bears and runs her family's manufacturing shop. But this isn’t the first time there has been a murder connected to the shop or her. This time, however, it could be a real issue when her mother finds the body of Santa bear, aka the mayor, sitting on a park bench. Sasha knows that unless she helps find the killer, Christmas could be ruined for not just her family, but the whole town.
This holiday book, much like the others in this series, is filled with remarkable characters, crazy motives, and suspects that well… wouldn’t typically be considered suspects by most people. Having the victim dressed up as a giant teddy bear gives the story a twist that feels sweet and yet disturbing at the same time. Finding out that the mayor wasn’t the nice guy everyone thought he was, makes the perfect victim. It doesn’t take a genius to figure out who the killer is, but there are plenty of trails to follow that will keep readers second-guessing their conclusions.
Have Yourself a Beary Little Murder is a fast read, a fun holiday book that inspires readers to start looking forward to the holiday season to come and to look at teddy bears in a whole new way. The description of the Harry Potter-inspired wizard teddy bear will send fans scrambling to find a bear just like it for their own. I think readers will get a kick out of reading this cozy and am happy to add it to my holiday collection.
September 28, 2019
Synopsis:
This holiday season, teddy bear shop manager Sasha Silverman must solve the slaying of Santa Bear . . .
Sasha and her sister Maddie are thrilled that the Silver Bear Shop and Factory has won the Teddy Bear Keepsake Contest, which means they get to produce a holiday specialty toy, a wizard bear named "Beary Potter." Promising to be just as magical is Silver Hollow's annual tree-lighting ceremony and village parade. Only one hitch: the parade's mascot, Santa Bear--played by Mayor Cal Bloom--is missing.
After a frantic search among the floats, Bloom is found dead. When the outfit is removed, it's clear the mayor's been electrocuted. Who zapped hizzoner and then stuffed him into his Santa Bear suit? While the police investigate the grisly crime, Sasha attempts to track down the murderer herself, with some help from the Guilty Pleasures Gossip Club. Can they wrap up this case in time for Christmas--or will Sasha meet her own shocking end? (Goodreads)
Review:
The characters are well developed and well rounded. I really like Sasha, she is a hard working, tough and caring person. I like the relationship she has with her family, you can tell how much they love each other and will do anything for each other. I felt there were a lot of characters introduced and I had a hard time keeping them straight in my mind. That is only my opinion and others might not agree with me.
The author is very talented in her descriptive writing and these descriptions pulled me into the story from the very beginning. The author has created a setting that sounds magical and I would love to visit. Being there with all of the bear themed activities at Christmas would be great.
The mystery was well plotted and carried on well throughout the book. There were enough clues to sift through and suspects to consider, it seems that Mayor was not as well liked as he wanted everyone to think he was. I was not completely convinced who the culprit was until it was revealed at the end, which is great.
I would recommend this book, and series, to anyone who enjoys a well crafted cozy mystery. And if you love teddy bears, then you have to grab all three books.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book provided by the publisher, Kensington Books, and NetGalley, which I greatly appreciate.
This holiday season, teddy bear shop manager Sasha Silverman must solve the slaying of Santa Bear . . .
Sasha and her sister Maddie are thrilled that the Silver Bear Shop and Factory has won the Teddy Bear Keepsake Contest, which means they get to produce a holiday specialty toy, a wizard bear named "Beary Potter." Promising to be just as magical is Silver Hollow's annual tree-lighting ceremony and village parade. Only one hitch: the parade's mascot, Santa Bear--played by Mayor Cal Bloom--is missing.
After a frantic search among the floats, Bloom is found dead. When the outfit is removed, it's clear the mayor's been electrocuted. Who zapped hizzoner and then stuffed him into his Santa Bear suit? While the police investigate the grisly crime, Sasha attempts to track down the murderer herself, with some help from the Guilty Pleasures Gossip Club. Can they wrap up this case in time for Christmas--or will Sasha meet her own shocking end? (Goodreads)
Review:
The characters are well developed and well rounded. I really like Sasha, she is a hard working, tough and caring person. I like the relationship she has with her family, you can tell how much they love each other and will do anything for each other. I felt there were a lot of characters introduced and I had a hard time keeping them straight in my mind. That is only my opinion and others might not agree with me.
The author is very talented in her descriptive writing and these descriptions pulled me into the story from the very beginning. The author has created a setting that sounds magical and I would love to visit. Being there with all of the bear themed activities at Christmas would be great.
The mystery was well plotted and carried on well throughout the book. There were enough clues to sift through and suspects to consider, it seems that Mayor was not as well liked as he wanted everyone to think he was. I was not completely convinced who the culprit was until it was revealed at the end, which is great.
I would recommend this book, and series, to anyone who enjoys a well crafted cozy mystery. And if you love teddy bears, then you have to grab all three books.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book provided by the publisher, Kensington Books, and NetGalley, which I greatly appreciate.
September 24, 2019
Sasha Silverman is the manager of the Silver Bear Shop & Factory, a family-owned business that is very active in the community. Their town, Silver Hollow, is hosting their annual Christmas Tree Lighting and Festival of Lights Parade, with Santa Bear as the featured attraction. Having won the Keepsake Award for their creation of the “Beary Potter Keepsake Wizard Bear,” Sasha, and her family were looking forward to the night’s festivities. That was, until Santa Bear, the star of the parade, goes missing and is discovered not far from the parade route, dead! With a suspicious death marring the celebration, Sasha, once again sets out to find information that leads to Santa Bear’s demise. Was it a heart attack or something much more sinister?
This “beary” little mystery is filled with excitement! I would love to visit Silver Hallow during the holidays when all activities have a bear-related theme. The BEAR-zarre craft show, a Teddy Bear Cookie decorating contest, and of course the Bear Factory. This is the perfect story to read as the temperatures start to dip. There were so many twists and turns with an abundance of suspects, I kept waffling back and forth between suspects. The ending was certainly a surprise as who the murderer was! Meg Macy’s storytelling at its finest! I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review through Kensington Publications, and NetGalley.
This “beary” little mystery is filled with excitement! I would love to visit Silver Hallow during the holidays when all activities have a bear-related theme. The BEAR-zarre craft show, a Teddy Bear Cookie decorating contest, and of course the Bear Factory. This is the perfect story to read as the temperatures start to dip. There were so many twists and turns with an abundance of suspects, I kept waffling back and forth between suspects. The ending was certainly a surprise as who the murderer was! Meg Macy’s storytelling at its finest! I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review through Kensington Publications, and NetGalley.
November 11, 2021
This is book 3. It is Christmas time. Sasha and Maddie parents retired and now Sasha is handling the Bear toy shop nicely. Their aunt and uncle were working there too. Maddie has another place she owns. They won a Keepsake contest with Beary Potter. They entered 5 years and they just won. They are having a Christmas bake contest and fun and games. Mayor Cal was going to play Heart Santa 🎅 for all the little kids. But Sasha mom Flynn ( Sasha ex husband) and her found Mayor dead on a bench was it foul play or something sinister. Love these books. Love all the different bears they have in best shop. They have signature bears too. Santa bears, Characters bears, and all kinds of outfits for them. And when something goes wrong with the bears they give them a refund or try to mend them. All the little kids love the Bear toy shop. This is a Awesome series. If you love stuffed teddy bears you are in for a real treat with these books
April 9, 2020
Christmas and teddy bears-what more could you ask for? A fantastic book!! Sasha's mom finds the mayor dead in his Santa Bear costume right before the holiday parade. It seems to most that it was murder. Sasha's mom asks for her help in proving the mayor's wife's innocence. Sasha investigates all while trying to juggle the many holiday events for the teddy bear shop and getting their Beary Potter keepsake contest bear manufactured. Truly great series with wonderful characters. Wish I could visit the teddy bear shop! Looking forward to the next book and seeing what happens with Sasha and Jay's relationship!!
November 8, 2019
https://openbooksociety.com/article/h...
Have Yourself a Beary Little Murder
Shamelessly Adorable Teddy Bear Mystery #3
By Meg Macy
ISBN 9781496722652
Author’s website: megmacy.com
Brought to you by OBS Reviewer Jeanie
Synopsis:
This holiday season, teddy bear shop manager Sasha Silverman must solve the slaying of Santa Bear . . .
Sasha and her sister Maddie are thrilled that the Silver Bear Shop and Factory has won the Teddy Bear Keepsake Contest, which means they get to produce a holiday specialty toy, a wizard bear named “Beary Potter.” Promising to be just as magical is Silver Hollow’s annual tree-lighting ceremony and village parade. Only one hitch: the parade’s mascot, Santa Bear–played by Mayor Cal Bloom–is missing.
After a frantic search among the floats, Bloom is found dead. When the outfit is removed, it’s clear the mayor’s been electrocuted. Who zapped hizzoner and then stuffed him into his Santa Bear suit? While the police investigate the grisly crime, Sasha attempts to track down the murderer herself, with some help from the Guilty Pleasures Gossip Club. Can they wrap up this case in time for Christmas–or will Sasha meet her own shocking end?
Review:
Silver Hollow and the Silver Bear Shop and Factory are delightful to visit any time of year, but especially before Christmas! This is well-written cozy mystery has a detailed plot kept me guessing. A variety of characters is representative of many small towns. The setting of early December in southeast Michigan isn’t far from where I grew up, where snow and Christmas go hand-in-hand.
Sasha manages the Silver Bear Shop with help from her sister Maddie, while Uncle Ross and Aunt Eve have their hands on the heart of the bear factory. They have entered the Child’s Play Toy Box Co.’s special Teddy Bear Keepsake contest for the past five years, and this year they won with the Beary Potter Keepsake Wizard Bear. They now have an exclusive contract to provide these already best-selling bears to Child’s Play for at least a year, and business has never been better!
Tonight, Sasha is finalizing inspection on the Silver Bears in Toyland float that will be in the annual Tree Lighting and Festival of Lights Parade as her parents circulate to make sure other floats are ready and the parade is a go. Mayor Cal Bloom, owner of Bloom’s Funeral Home, was recently re-elected by a landslide. He is ready to be Santa Bear in the festival, and Sasha’s ex-husband Flynn will be Grand Marsal with his fiancée Cheryl. It is past time to start, however, and Mayor Bloom is nowhere to be found.
Sasha’s mother Judith, Flynn, Cheryl and Sasha finally find Mayor Bloom, sitting on a bench quite a distance from where the floats are lined up. They recognize him by the Santa Bear suit. He’s kind of leaning to the side with sleeves and paw gloves looking very wet. Mom tries to pull off the bear head, then shakes him. Mayor Bloom didn’t wake up; he fell off the bench, cold, dead. Assuming he died of natural causes, Judith wants the bear suit so someone else to play Santa Bear. Flynn starts to take it off him when he sees the man’s chest is charred. When removing the paws, his hands were red and blistered. He looks as if he had been electrocuted, but he isn’t near anything electrical. Time for the police. If someone else would just get the parade moving! The children can’t find out that this Santa Bear has been permanently grounded.
Alex, Sasha’s father, fills in the blanks by wearing the regular Santa Claws costume for the parade. Alison Bloom, the mayor’s wife, is a close friend of Judith, so Judith goes with the police chief to tell her about her husband’s death. Within a couple of days, however, the police and the detectives brought in from the County are treating Alison as if she is the primary suspect. Alex helps get her an attorney, and Judith asks Sasha to help the police find out who really killed Cal Bloom. Sasha has helped solve a couple of previous murders despite the detectives telling her to leave it to the professionals. She wants nothing to do with helping again, but one simply doesn’t say “no” to Judith, especially when the freedom of one of her friends is at stake.
Each of the characters is designed with care according to their roles. Some of the folks we learn more about as the investigation proceeds. I like Sasha and Maddie, especially as Maddie works hard to establish her new business. I also like Sasha’s best friends Mary Kate and Elle. Overall, the citizens of the village are hardworking entrepreneurs or employees. Most will help out in any kind of crisis, yet among them might be a killer. They love the Tree Lighting and Festival of Lights Parade, and children are important to most of their events – in short, the ideal small town.
The more Sasha learns about Cal, the more suspects get onto her “list”. It seems there are many who Cal had upset just in the past couple months! He had started drinking again, changed his mind about selling the funeral home to his loyal manager and his wife, and was a little too friendly with ladies. Sasha has her hands full with asking questions, getting ready for Aunt Eve and Uncle Ross to re-marry, and fill in long hours at the factory for the many, many keepsake bears ordered. There are many people who are part of the story, almost too many to pick out – or narrow down – suspects. With so many characters, it might be good to read the books in order, as a few earlier situations are mentioned that aren’t explained. However, I did enjoy this very much, and highly recommend it! Any time of year is good to read this, but especially before Christmas!
*OBS would like to thank the publisher for supplying a free copy of this title in exchange for an honest review*
Have Yourself a Beary Little Murder
Shamelessly Adorable Teddy Bear Mystery #3
By Meg Macy
ISBN 9781496722652
Author’s website: megmacy.com
Brought to you by OBS Reviewer Jeanie
Synopsis:
This holiday season, teddy bear shop manager Sasha Silverman must solve the slaying of Santa Bear . . .
Sasha and her sister Maddie are thrilled that the Silver Bear Shop and Factory has won the Teddy Bear Keepsake Contest, which means they get to produce a holiday specialty toy, a wizard bear named “Beary Potter.” Promising to be just as magical is Silver Hollow’s annual tree-lighting ceremony and village parade. Only one hitch: the parade’s mascot, Santa Bear–played by Mayor Cal Bloom–is missing.
After a frantic search among the floats, Bloom is found dead. When the outfit is removed, it’s clear the mayor’s been electrocuted. Who zapped hizzoner and then stuffed him into his Santa Bear suit? While the police investigate the grisly crime, Sasha attempts to track down the murderer herself, with some help from the Guilty Pleasures Gossip Club. Can they wrap up this case in time for Christmas–or will Sasha meet her own shocking end?
Review:
Silver Hollow and the Silver Bear Shop and Factory are delightful to visit any time of year, but especially before Christmas! This is well-written cozy mystery has a detailed plot kept me guessing. A variety of characters is representative of many small towns. The setting of early December in southeast Michigan isn’t far from where I grew up, where snow and Christmas go hand-in-hand.
Sasha manages the Silver Bear Shop with help from her sister Maddie, while Uncle Ross and Aunt Eve have their hands on the heart of the bear factory. They have entered the Child’s Play Toy Box Co.’s special Teddy Bear Keepsake contest for the past five years, and this year they won with the Beary Potter Keepsake Wizard Bear. They now have an exclusive contract to provide these already best-selling bears to Child’s Play for at least a year, and business has never been better!
Tonight, Sasha is finalizing inspection on the Silver Bears in Toyland float that will be in the annual Tree Lighting and Festival of Lights Parade as her parents circulate to make sure other floats are ready and the parade is a go. Mayor Cal Bloom, owner of Bloom’s Funeral Home, was recently re-elected by a landslide. He is ready to be Santa Bear in the festival, and Sasha’s ex-husband Flynn will be Grand Marsal with his fiancée Cheryl. It is past time to start, however, and Mayor Bloom is nowhere to be found.
Sasha’s mother Judith, Flynn, Cheryl and Sasha finally find Mayor Bloom, sitting on a bench quite a distance from where the floats are lined up. They recognize him by the Santa Bear suit. He’s kind of leaning to the side with sleeves and paw gloves looking very wet. Mom tries to pull off the bear head, then shakes him. Mayor Bloom didn’t wake up; he fell off the bench, cold, dead. Assuming he died of natural causes, Judith wants the bear suit so someone else to play Santa Bear. Flynn starts to take it off him when he sees the man’s chest is charred. When removing the paws, his hands were red and blistered. He looks as if he had been electrocuted, but he isn’t near anything electrical. Time for the police. If someone else would just get the parade moving! The children can’t find out that this Santa Bear has been permanently grounded.
Alex, Sasha’s father, fills in the blanks by wearing the regular Santa Claws costume for the parade. Alison Bloom, the mayor’s wife, is a close friend of Judith, so Judith goes with the police chief to tell her about her husband’s death. Within a couple of days, however, the police and the detectives brought in from the County are treating Alison as if she is the primary suspect. Alex helps get her an attorney, and Judith asks Sasha to help the police find out who really killed Cal Bloom. Sasha has helped solve a couple of previous murders despite the detectives telling her to leave it to the professionals. She wants nothing to do with helping again, but one simply doesn’t say “no” to Judith, especially when the freedom of one of her friends is at stake.
Each of the characters is designed with care according to their roles. Some of the folks we learn more about as the investigation proceeds. I like Sasha and Maddie, especially as Maddie works hard to establish her new business. I also like Sasha’s best friends Mary Kate and Elle. Overall, the citizens of the village are hardworking entrepreneurs or employees. Most will help out in any kind of crisis, yet among them might be a killer. They love the Tree Lighting and Festival of Lights Parade, and children are important to most of their events – in short, the ideal small town.
The more Sasha learns about Cal, the more suspects get onto her “list”. It seems there are many who Cal had upset just in the past couple months! He had started drinking again, changed his mind about selling the funeral home to his loyal manager and his wife, and was a little too friendly with ladies. Sasha has her hands full with asking questions, getting ready for Aunt Eve and Uncle Ross to re-marry, and fill in long hours at the factory for the many, many keepsake bears ordered. There are many people who are part of the story, almost too many to pick out – or narrow down – suspects. With so many characters, it might be good to read the books in order, as a few earlier situations are mentioned that aren’t explained. However, I did enjoy this very much, and highly recommend it! Any time of year is good to read this, but especially before Christmas!
*OBS would like to thank the publisher for supplying a free copy of this title in exchange for an honest review*
October 10, 2019
What a great place to be during the Christmas season! Silver Hollow with snow and events that are oriented towards children of all ages sounds picture-postcard perfect. The Silver Bear Shop and Factory would be fun to visit any time of year, but especially now with their contest-winning Beary Potter Keepsake Wizard Bear and usual Christmas offerings it is super special. The characters are demonstrated beautifully through actions and conversations, and the plot is finely planned and executed.
We open to the evening of the tree lighting and Festival of Lights Parade, where Sasha, who manages the Silver Bear Shop, and her family are checking on all the last-minute details, including assuring all are lined up to begin the parade. There is only one thing missing, though. Mayor Cal Bloom is not where he should be. Sasha and her mother, Judith, saw him just before he went to dress up as Santa Bear, who children look forward to seeing every year. He won't be leading the parade this year, though. They find Santa bear with only one eye, soggy paws, and lifeless.
As Judith and family try to do damage control so the children don't hear about the mayor's demise, Santa Claus is the next best substitute. Sasha, who has helped the police and detectives find murderers in the past, is suspicious when marks lead them to think he might have been electrocuted and moved, as there is no sign of electricity nearby. She has too many things going on and is determined to not get caught up in crime-solving again.
Alison Bloom, the mayor's widow, is the main suspect of the local police and the county detectives. There are a few clues that lead them in that direction, but Judith is convinced that Alison couldn't kill anyone, much less Cal. Alison and Judith want Sasha to nose around, see what she can learn to get Alison off the hook. Sasha does her best to get the scoop on the Blooms so she can get a better feel for who might have cause to kill the man, and finds a few unsavory things about Cal she would rather not have known...and the widow almost regrets asking for help.
This is one whodunit that I couldn't figure out. Plot twists and a lot of people the late mayor has given serious grief to show that he wasn't as well-liked as Sasha thought. With all the orders for the keepsake bear and holiday events, there aren't enough hours in the day. I was quite surprised at the end, and satisfied as the loose ends are all tied up. I highly recommend this to those who enjoy Christmas-themed cozy mysteries, bears, and hard-to-solve whodunits. This is sure to delight at any time of year!
We open to the evening of the tree lighting and Festival of Lights Parade, where Sasha, who manages the Silver Bear Shop, and her family are checking on all the last-minute details, including assuring all are lined up to begin the parade. There is only one thing missing, though. Mayor Cal Bloom is not where he should be. Sasha and her mother, Judith, saw him just before he went to dress up as Santa Bear, who children look forward to seeing every year. He won't be leading the parade this year, though. They find Santa bear with only one eye, soggy paws, and lifeless.
As Judith and family try to do damage control so the children don't hear about the mayor's demise, Santa Claus is the next best substitute. Sasha, who has helped the police and detectives find murderers in the past, is suspicious when marks lead them to think he might have been electrocuted and moved, as there is no sign of electricity nearby. She has too many things going on and is determined to not get caught up in crime-solving again.
Alison Bloom, the mayor's widow, is the main suspect of the local police and the county detectives. There are a few clues that lead them in that direction, but Judith is convinced that Alison couldn't kill anyone, much less Cal. Alison and Judith want Sasha to nose around, see what she can learn to get Alison off the hook. Sasha does her best to get the scoop on the Blooms so she can get a better feel for who might have cause to kill the man, and finds a few unsavory things about Cal she would rather not have known...and the widow almost regrets asking for help.
This is one whodunit that I couldn't figure out. Plot twists and a lot of people the late mayor has given serious grief to show that he wasn't as well-liked as Sasha thought. With all the orders for the keepsake bear and holiday events, there aren't enough hours in the day. I was quite surprised at the end, and satisfied as the loose ends are all tied up. I highly recommend this to those who enjoy Christmas-themed cozy mysteries, bears, and hard-to-solve whodunits. This is sure to delight at any time of year!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 9, 2019
HAVE YOURSELF A BEARY LITTLE MURDER by Meg Macy is the third book in the Shamelessly Adorable Teddy Bear Mystery series. Any book with a tag line of shamelessly adorable and a most darling book cover will grab my attention. Ms. Macy stays true to that promise by penning an adorable cozy mystery. The stage is set at the family owned Silver Bear Shop and Factory at Christmas time. The protagonist, Sasha Silverman, and her family are actively involved in the Silver Hollow annual tree light and Festival of Lights Parade. This highly popular village event gives the author plenty of opportunities to make the reader feel the spirit of the Christmas holiday with the various festivities, costumes, food, and fun, which I greatly enjoyed. The only downside, for me, is that too many characters were introduced because of the festival, and I had a hard time keeping track of who was who for a time. However, once Sasha got involved in trying to figure out who would want to murder the polar Santa-bear-costume-wearing mayor, the pace picked up and got back on track.
While on the surface the mayor seemed to be beloved by all, Sasha digs deeper and finds he had another side that was hidden from his constituents. This opens her investigation to many suspects, prompted, for once, by her own mother to find the villain. There were clues planted throughout which kept me guessing and turning pages until the heartwarming ending. I greatly enjoy how Sasha has a close relationship with her entire family and they work together to support and encourage each other. This, along with (need I say it again?) the adorable teddy bear shop brings a delightful cheer to an endearing holiday cozy read.
I was provided an advance copy via Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
While on the surface the mayor seemed to be beloved by all, Sasha digs deeper and finds he had another side that was hidden from his constituents. This opens her investigation to many suspects, prompted, for once, by her own mother to find the villain. There were clues planted throughout which kept me guessing and turning pages until the heartwarming ending. I greatly enjoy how Sasha has a close relationship with her entire family and they work together to support and encourage each other. This, along with (need I say it again?) the adorable teddy bear shop brings a delightful cheer to an endearing holiday cozy read.
I was provided an advance copy via Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
September 5, 2019
It’s Christmas time and what better way to celebrate than with a teddy bear? Easy, whether Beary Potter Keepsake Wizard teddy bear! And that’s exactly what Sasha and the gang are making in full on production mode. To kick off the holiday season, the town is hosting a parade in which the mayor will dress up as Sant Bear, the shop’s beloved Christmas mascot. But when the mayor is missing in action, Sasha’s father substitute Santa Claus for Santa Bear on the shops float in the parade.
Unfortunately, the mayor is found dead on a bench in the Santa Bear costume. At first it looks like the mayor might have had a heart attack, but then they can’t explain the smokey burns they find. When her mother promises the mayor’s wife that Sasha will help to prove her innocence, the only thing Sasha is finding is a reason to suspect the mayor’s wife. Now Sasha has to find the murderer before they strike again.
This is the first book I have read by this author, and while I sometimes struggle reading something by a new author, this one took me a full week to get through. I thought about just putting it aside, but I kept hoping that things will pick up soon, unfortunately they didn’t. Maybe the next book will be easier for me to read, and I will read another in the series, because I actually enjoyed the whodunit mystery at the end of the book.
Unfortunately, the mayor is found dead on a bench in the Santa Bear costume. At first it looks like the mayor might have had a heart attack, but then they can’t explain the smokey burns they find. When her mother promises the mayor’s wife that Sasha will help to prove her innocence, the only thing Sasha is finding is a reason to suspect the mayor’s wife. Now Sasha has to find the murderer before they strike again.
This is the first book I have read by this author, and while I sometimes struggle reading something by a new author, this one took me a full week to get through. I thought about just putting it aside, but I kept hoping that things will pick up soon, unfortunately they didn’t. Maybe the next book will be easier for me to read, and I will read another in the series, because I actually enjoyed the whodunit mystery at the end of the book.
September 23, 2019
Meg Macy is writing about the season of goodwill, toys, competitions and murder! and it is a total page turner from start to finish.
Sasha and Maddie (and more to the point the Silver Bear Shop and Factory) have won the chance to create and make the holiday Teddy Bear, which is a limited edition make, so everyone will be working extra hard to get the usual bears done AND the "Beary Potter" Wizard Bears as well, the problems come when the staff need to take time off for two funerals, one was expected as he had been ill for a while, the second ... well that was the Mayor (who was also supposed to be playing Santa Bear) who was found electrocuted. Now Sasha is digging through the tinsel and stuffing to find out who wanted Hizzoner out of the way and why, not helped by the fact that the new Detective is being obstructive. and the fact that Maddie is working at her new job and unable to help out at the shop as needed. Add in a vindictive ex-employee, people lying .... a lot, and Sasha's boyfriend being away - can Santa re-appear in Silver Hollow?
Sasha and Maddie (and more to the point the Silver Bear Shop and Factory) have won the chance to create and make the holiday Teddy Bear, which is a limited edition make, so everyone will be working extra hard to get the usual bears done AND the "Beary Potter" Wizard Bears as well, the problems come when the staff need to take time off for two funerals, one was expected as he had been ill for a while, the second ... well that was the Mayor (who was also supposed to be playing Santa Bear) who was found electrocuted. Now Sasha is digging through the tinsel and stuffing to find out who wanted Hizzoner out of the way and why, not helped by the fact that the new Detective is being obstructive. and the fact that Maddie is working at her new job and unable to help out at the shop as needed. Add in a vindictive ex-employee, people lying .... a lot, and Sasha's boyfriend being away - can Santa re-appear in Silver Hollow?
August 22, 2019
Between the cover and the title, I simply could not resist requesting this book via NetGalley.
Sasha and her sister are fun characters who are easy to like.
It seems that there are some local residents who are not a fan of the mayor, so when his death is deemed a homicide, not everyone is saddened by his death.
I felt that some of this story went in circles and I couldn't understand the reason why.
I felt myself becoming bored with certain parts and just skimmed through some of the pages.
Sasha and her sister are fun characters who are easy to like.
It seems that there are some local residents who are not a fan of the mayor, so when his death is deemed a homicide, not everyone is saddened by his death.
I felt that some of this story went in circles and I couldn't understand the reason why.
I felt myself becoming bored with certain parts and just skimmed through some of the pages.
December 24, 2019
This is book 3 in the Shamelessly Adorable Teddy Bear Mystery series. It's Christmas and the Silver Bear Shop has won a contest to produce a Beary Potter Christmas ornament. Sasha and Maddie are busy with the production when the Mayor is found dead wearing a teddy bear costume at the Silver Hollow Christmas Tree lighting. A good Christmas cozy in a small town with the Gossip club willing to help with the case. I received a copy of this ARC in exchange for a fair and honest review.
November 18, 2019
Excellent! Great characters, good writing & wonderful mystery!
February 8, 2021
It's always fun to spend time in Silver Hollow, MI especially at Christmas time. I could just picture this little town looking a lot like maybe a combo between Mackinac and Frankenmuth. I never suspected the killer until the end, since there were plenty of suspects and red herrings to go around. Now I'm all caught up for the next book!
February 6, 2020
This story was something of a mess. You clearly need to have read the earlier books in the series (and recently). There is so much extra details that don't make sense or help in anyway with the story. There are also so many characters that it is hard to keep track of who everyone is.
September 30, 2024
3.25 stars
August 26, 2019
This is the third book in the series and I haven't read the others. That may be why I struggled to get through it. There are a lot of characters and it was difficult to keep track of them. None of them were engaging, including the main character. The story didn't feel tight. I started it and put it down because it wasn't holding my attention. After reading a different book, I tried again but was just never interested. It was hard to get through. I don't think I'll go back and read any of the others.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
November 13, 2020
This book is the third in this series and it is 'beary' good indeed! This was a great Christmas themed cozy mystery.
I loved the premise. The teddy bear shop brought back lovely memories of taking my son shopping for his own bear.
I particularly enjoyed the family business aspect and the realistic portrayal of the family.
The characters were well written and the whodunit was top notch. It kept me guessing right up to the reveal.
This was a great read and I look forward to reading further books in the series.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
I loved the premise. The teddy bear shop brought back lovely memories of taking my son shopping for his own bear.
I particularly enjoyed the family business aspect and the realistic portrayal of the family.
The characters were well written and the whodunit was top notch. It kept me guessing right up to the reveal.
This was a great read and I look forward to reading further books in the series.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
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