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A Christmas Resolution
A smitten woman is about to marry a dangerous man--unless Detective Hooper and his new wife, Celia, can prevent it--in this wickedly tangled holiday mystery from bestselling author Anne Perry.
Detective John Hooper, William Monk's right-hand man at the Thames River Police, is blissfully happy in his new marriage to Celia, the cousin of a victim in one of the river police's recent murder cases. Celia wants the same happiness for her good friend Clementine, who's just announced her engagement to Seth Marlowe, a member of her church. Christmas is nearing, and this should be extra cause for celebration, but when Marlowe begins receiving threatening letters about his first wife's death, it becomes clear that he is far from the devout man Clementine thought he was. In his rage, Marlowe accuses Celia of sending the letters, claiming she wants to ruin his engagement to Clementine. At a loss as to how to defend herself, Celia enlists Hooper to investigate the letters' claims, and what he finds makes her desperate to show Clementine the truth about her soon-to-be husband.
But Celia herself has not always been truthful, especially not during the murder trial following her cousin's death. How can she be believed now, when she lied on the stand? Especially when Marlowe knows that she did, and could use it against her. This Yuletide season finds love and faith put to the test--and Celia's and Clementine's lives on the line.
Detective John Hooper, William Monk's right-hand man at the Thames River Police, is blissfully happy in his new marriage to Celia, the cousin of a victim in one of the river police's recent murder cases. Celia wants the same happiness for her good friend Clementine, who's just announced her engagement to Seth Marlowe, a member of her church. Christmas is nearing, and this should be extra cause for celebration, but when Marlowe begins receiving threatening letters about his first wife's death, it becomes clear that he is far from the devout man Clementine thought he was. In his rage, Marlowe accuses Celia of sending the letters, claiming she wants to ruin his engagement to Clementine. At a loss as to how to defend herself, Celia enlists Hooper to investigate the letters' claims, and what he finds makes her desperate to show Clementine the truth about her soon-to-be husband.
But Celia herself has not always been truthful, especially not during the murder trial following her cousin's death. How can she be believed now, when she lied on the stand? Especially when Marlowe knows that she did, and could use it against her. This Yuletide season finds love and faith put to the test--and Celia's and Clementine's lives on the line.
192 pages, Hardcover
First published October 15, 2020
336 people are currently reading
2724 people want to read
About the author
Anne Perry
362 books3,380 followersAnne Perry, born Juliet Hulme in England, lived in Scotland most of her life after serving five years in prison for murder (in New Zealand). A beloved mystery authoress, she is best known for her Thomas Pitt and William Monk series.
Her first novel, "The Cater Street Hangman", was published in 1979. Her works extend to several categories of genre fiction, including historical mysteries. Many of them feature recurring characters, most importantly Thomas Pitt and amnesiac private investigator William Monk, who first appeared in 1990, "The Face Of A Stranger".
Her story "Heroes," from the 1999 anthology Murder And Obsession, won the 2001 Edgar Award For Best Short Story. She was included as an entry in Ben Peek's Twenty-Six Lies / One Truth, a novel exploring the nature of truth in literature.
Series contributed to:
. Crime Through Time
. Perfectly Criminal
. Malice Domestic
. The World's Finest Mystery And Crime Stories
. Transgressions
. The Year's Finest Crime And Mystery Stories
Her first novel, "The Cater Street Hangman", was published in 1979. Her works extend to several categories of genre fiction, including historical mysteries. Many of them feature recurring characters, most importantly Thomas Pitt and amnesiac private investigator William Monk, who first appeared in 1990, "The Face Of A Stranger".
Her story "Heroes," from the 1999 anthology Murder And Obsession, won the 2001 Edgar Award For Best Short Story. She was included as an entry in Ben Peek's Twenty-Six Lies / One Truth, a novel exploring the nature of truth in literature.
Series contributed to:
. Crime Through Time
. Perfectly Criminal
. Malice Domestic
. The World's Finest Mystery And Crime Stories
. Transgressions
. The Year's Finest Crime And Mystery Stories
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 305 reviews
December 8, 2020
Somehow these annual Christmas mysteries have become a tradition for me and I eagerly await the publication of a new one each year. In addition to the mystery, there is always the subtle and poignant storyline and accompanying study of human nature with its message of forgiveness and redemption.
This mystery is centered around Hooper, William Monk's right hand man, and his wife Celia. They are drawn into the circle of one Seth Marlowe, a supercilious and often cruel man, who is engaged to marry a younger friend of Celia's, Clementine. Celia, who does not cower from Seth, bears the brunt of his vicious tongue, and is soon accused of poison pen letters that Seth has received. Knowing the rumors about Seth, and the inherent cruelty in the man, Hooper sets out to find his daughter and the backstory of what really happened to his first wife, Rose. Of course the truth all comes out and justice, of a sort, is served.
I love the settings of these Christmas mysteries, as they are set in the Victorian era, in London. This one was in 1872, and I enjoyed seeing William Monk make an appearance.
This mystery is centered around Hooper, William Monk's right hand man, and his wife Celia. They are drawn into the circle of one Seth Marlowe, a supercilious and often cruel man, who is engaged to marry a younger friend of Celia's, Clementine. Celia, who does not cower from Seth, bears the brunt of his vicious tongue, and is soon accused of poison pen letters that Seth has received. Knowing the rumors about Seth, and the inherent cruelty in the man, Hooper sets out to find his daughter and the backstory of what really happened to his first wife, Rose. Of course the truth all comes out and justice, of a sort, is served.
I love the settings of these Christmas mysteries, as they are set in the Victorian era, in London. This one was in 1872, and I enjoyed seeing William Monk make an appearance.
September 22, 2020
Set in a small English village in the late 19th century, this story begins shortly before Christmas. In a season of happiness, forgiveness, and goodwill, Celia appears to be experiencing the exact opposite. Her best friend, Clementine, tells her that she has accepted a marriage proposal from Seth Marlowe. Celia knows she should be happy for Clementine, but she has serious misgivings about Seth's character. Clementine's fiancé is a mean spirited and self righteous widower who has made a serious and threatening accusation against Celia. Celia's husband, who is a police officer, sets out to investigate.
Although the story is not strictly a Christmas story, and I could guess the ending, I honestly did enjoy reading the mystery! Themes of friendship, forgiveness, kindness, and truth are incorporated throughout. There is a vivid sense of place, likable characters, and a satisfying conclusion which, coincidentally, happens on Christmas Day.
Thank you to NetGalley, author Anne Perry, and Ballantine Books for giving me an opportunity to read the ARC of this mystery!
Although the story is not strictly a Christmas story, and I could guess the ending, I honestly did enjoy reading the mystery! Themes of friendship, forgiveness, kindness, and truth are incorporated throughout. There is a vivid sense of place, likable characters, and a satisfying conclusion which, coincidentally, happens on Christmas Day.
Thank you to NetGalley, author Anne Perry, and Ballantine Books for giving me an opportunity to read the ARC of this mystery!
November 4, 2020
A different type of Scrooge!
Somehow Perry's Christmas stories always undo me. A Christmas Resolution does exactly that. Set in Victorian London in 1872, this year's tale centers around John Hooper, a senior officer in the Thames River Police, and his lovely wife Celia who are drawn into unpleasantness in their church circle. Celia's best friend Clemintine is going to marry Seth Marlowe. A rigid man. An unforgiving man whose former wife committed suicide and whose daughter ran from him. Indeed Seth maight have been an emotionally depleted Scrooge. When Seth roughly confronts Celia and orders her to have nothing to do with Clemantine, Celia is thrown into indignation and confusion. It turns out that Seth thinks Celia has threatened him with poisoned letters. Hooper is consumed by a cold anger and a determination to find out more about Seth and what he is frightened about, particularly after his treatment of Celia.
Underlying the story is the concept of forgiveness and repentance. Another astounding mystery with reflections wrapped in tightly written prose Perry.
A Random House - Ballantine ARC via NetGalley
Somehow Perry's Christmas stories always undo me. A Christmas Resolution does exactly that. Set in Victorian London in 1872, this year's tale centers around John Hooper, a senior officer in the Thames River Police, and his lovely wife Celia who are drawn into unpleasantness in their church circle. Celia's best friend Clemintine is going to marry Seth Marlowe. A rigid man. An unforgiving man whose former wife committed suicide and whose daughter ran from him. Indeed Seth maight have been an emotionally depleted Scrooge. When Seth roughly confronts Celia and orders her to have nothing to do with Clemantine, Celia is thrown into indignation and confusion. It turns out that Seth thinks Celia has threatened him with poisoned letters. Hooper is consumed by a cold anger and a determination to find out more about Seth and what he is frightened about, particularly after his treatment of Celia.
Underlying the story is the concept of forgiveness and repentance. Another astounding mystery with reflections wrapped in tightly written prose Perry.
A Random House - Ballantine ARC via NetGalley
December 31, 2024
This story takes place at Christmas in a small village revolving around an angry and judgmental man living in unhappiness and fear. He is about to marry a sweet young woman but her friend and others are against it. It is about the meaning of repentance and forgiveness and ties in to the true spirit of Christmas. I enjoy listening to the narrator Jenny Sterlin.
October 20, 2022
Not many characters to follow.
In the Thames River town, Det. John Hooper works for William Monk & John Hooper is married to Celia.
6 years ago, Seth Marlowe’s first wife, Rose walked into the sea to drown & committed suicide. At the same time, their daughter, Flavia disappeared & became a prostitute.
Today, Celia Hooper does not want her friend, Clementine(30) to stay engaged to the ruthless Seth Marlowe(50).
Seth receives letters of his first wife, Rose’s death, he accuses Celia.
John Hooper finds Flavia, talks her to leave prostitution & go home with him. John & Celia then help Flavia begin a new life.
The end is good & makes sense. 6 years ago, Seth did not even try to stop his first wife, Rose to commit suicide & Flavia to disappear! Who really sent the letters now - Celia or Flavia?
Spoiler -
In the Thames River town, Det. John Hooper works for William Monk & John Hooper is married to Celia.
6 years ago, Seth Marlowe’s first wife, Rose walked into the sea to drown & committed suicide. At the same time, their daughter, Flavia disappeared & became a prostitute.
Today, Celia Hooper does not want her friend, Clementine(30) to stay engaged to the ruthless Seth Marlowe(50).
Seth receives letters of his first wife, Rose’s death, he accuses Celia.
John Hooper finds Flavia, talks her to leave prostitution & go home with him. John & Celia then help Flavia begin a new life.
The end is good & makes sense. 6 years ago, Seth did not even try to stop his first wife, Rose to commit suicide & Flavia to disappear! Who really sent the letters now - Celia or Flavia?
Spoiler -
November 6, 2020
Celia is happily married to a member of the police force, her friend is getting married to an awful man. Celia wants to stop it but she is told by the man that she is no longer allowed to talk to her friend. He starts getting poison pen letters and blames her. Celia’s husband and the local vicar to figure out the truth.
October 31, 2020
A Christmas Resolution is a romantic mystery, with the "lesson" of the true value of forgiveness of yourself and others. A quick read that can be read in an evening and will warm your heart with the holiday feelings.
October 28, 2020
Anne Perry writes these Christmas stories using very minor characters from her books every year. This is my favorite one yet. It features Celia newly married to Hooper, Monk's right hand man on the River Police. Her sweet friend, Clementine, is engaged to a man that Celia dislikes intensely. It's a lovely story about what friends do for friends and the magic of love. I really liked this story and it got me into the Christmas spirit.
Thanks to Net Galley for a copy of this book in exchange for a fair review.
Thanks to Net Galley for a copy of this book in exchange for a fair review.
November 8, 2020
I received a complimentary digital copy of this book from Ballantine/Random House in exchange for an unbiased review.
I enjoyed this short story based during Christmas time of 1872 in England. In a very devote religious community, Celia Hooper who married late in life to John Hooper tries desperately to uncover the truth about a self righteous man, Seth Marlowe. Celia learns that he is recently engaged to marry her best friend Clementine Appleby, who is unaware of his shady past. Clementine is a sweet and generous woman who spends her time helping others especially the homeless and less desirable.
Celia is overwhelmed with the blessings she has even though it wasn’t an easy path for her. She had met her husband while he was investigating the murder of her cousin, Katherine, at the hands of her spouse Harry Exeter. John Hooper is called upon once again to help uncover truth and provide justice when past events surface regarding Seth Marlowe before he came to Thames.
Although the story is predictable, it was still a delightful read with the quaintness of a small English village during the holidays. The atmosphere and setting provided a backdrop for the themes of repentance and forgiveness to shine. It reminds us that no one is perfect and that the hardest part is owning our imperfections. There can be no meaningful restitution or resolution otherwise.
I enjoyed this short story based during Christmas time of 1872 in England. In a very devote religious community, Celia Hooper who married late in life to John Hooper tries desperately to uncover the truth about a self righteous man, Seth Marlowe. Celia learns that he is recently engaged to marry her best friend Clementine Appleby, who is unaware of his shady past. Clementine is a sweet and generous woman who spends her time helping others especially the homeless and less desirable.
Celia is overwhelmed with the blessings she has even though it wasn’t an easy path for her. She had met her husband while he was investigating the murder of her cousin, Katherine, at the hands of her spouse Harry Exeter. John Hooper is called upon once again to help uncover truth and provide justice when past events surface regarding Seth Marlowe before he came to Thames.
Although the story is predictable, it was still a delightful read with the quaintness of a small English village during the holidays. The atmosphere and setting provided a backdrop for the themes of repentance and forgiveness to shine. It reminds us that no one is perfect and that the hardest part is owning our imperfections. There can be no meaningful restitution or resolution otherwise.
January 22, 2021
My very first Perry, and though the story’s pretty short, I liked the characters, and the slow reveal of the truth about an old suicide of a woman, her husband who plans to remarry a young woman, and the kind main character Celia’s relationships with these two and her police sergeant husband. There’s a lot of talk of forgiveness and anger, and some sense of the societal double standards women live with.
November 4, 2020
It's easy to forgive someone you like, but to genuinely forgive an unlikable person a bit of Christmas miracle might be necessary. The latest of the Christmas Stories series is a follow up to some of the events in Dark Tide Rising. Some history and mystery, but a thoughtful, holiday season novella with heart.
Anne Perry's Christmas Stories series tell standalone, novella-length mysteries set both at Christmas and in the worlds of her two Victorian Detective series. This eighteenth installment, A Christmas Resolution, delves into the William Monk world with one of the prime secondary characters, his right hand man, John Hooper. Hooper's past came to light in Dark Tide Rising and he also met his wife in the critical hour. Two lonely people are adjusting to marriage and the partnership in life's toils and troubles as a result.
Celia has been confronted by a self-righteous temperamental man from the village church congregation because he suspects she is behind a poison pen letter he has received, but also because he sees what she did to get justice and save Hooper was a sin against God even though the courts and the vicar do not. The only way to free Celia from his threat and perhaps open the eyes of Celia's truly good friend who has agreed to marry him is for Celia and her husband to get to the truth behind the letters on a trail into his past. Meanwhile, Celia wrestles with the Christian teaching about forgiveness and how that applies to the nasty-tempered Mr.
Marlowe.
I've long been a fan of the author's work to bring the Victorian world of London to life from it's high, lofty Mayfair drawing rooms to its teaming, gritty slums in the East End and everything in between like this working class village along the Thames. Along with setting, she sketches in complex, shadowed characters with very believable human frailties and strengths like Celia and Hooper learning what daily life in a marriage is or a person coming to terms with a moral dilemma or a person choosing their weakness and fear over the work of changing. And, that is before one gets to the delicious mystery plots that twist and turn their way to a conclusion. The level of development in her novellas like this Christmas-themed one is no less than the novels in her main series books. I eagerly await each new release and the experience of reading her books. Those who want a solid historical mystery set against the holiday season should pick this one up- or start anywhere in the series that grabs the attention.
I rec'd this book from Net Galley to read in exchange for an honest review.
Anne Perry's Christmas Stories series tell standalone, novella-length mysteries set both at Christmas and in the worlds of her two Victorian Detective series. This eighteenth installment, A Christmas Resolution, delves into the William Monk world with one of the prime secondary characters, his right hand man, John Hooper. Hooper's past came to light in Dark Tide Rising and he also met his wife in the critical hour. Two lonely people are adjusting to marriage and the partnership in life's toils and troubles as a result.
Celia has been confronted by a self-righteous temperamental man from the village church congregation because he suspects she is behind a poison pen letter he has received, but also because he sees what she did to get justice and save Hooper was a sin against God even though the courts and the vicar do not. The only way to free Celia from his threat and perhaps open the eyes of Celia's truly good friend who has agreed to marry him is for Celia and her husband to get to the truth behind the letters on a trail into his past. Meanwhile, Celia wrestles with the Christian teaching about forgiveness and how that applies to the nasty-tempered Mr.
Marlowe.
I've long been a fan of the author's work to bring the Victorian world of London to life from it's high, lofty Mayfair drawing rooms to its teaming, gritty slums in the East End and everything in between like this working class village along the Thames. Along with setting, she sketches in complex, shadowed characters with very believable human frailties and strengths like Celia and Hooper learning what daily life in a marriage is or a person coming to terms with a moral dilemma or a person choosing their weakness and fear over the work of changing. And, that is before one gets to the delicious mystery plots that twist and turn their way to a conclusion. The level of development in her novellas like this Christmas-themed one is no less than the novels in her main series books. I eagerly await each new release and the experience of reading her books. Those who want a solid historical mystery set against the holiday season should pick this one up- or start anywhere in the series that grabs the attention.
I rec'd this book from Net Galley to read in exchange for an honest review.
December 18, 2020
A lovely Victorian Christmas novella about forgiveness. This is an annual holiday treat for me that I look forward to reading. I received an arc from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Many thanks.
December 18, 2020
When Celia's best friend Clementine becomes engaged, Celia wants her to be as happy as she is to her husband, John. But when she learns the man Clementine's engaged to is Seth Marlowe Celia knows she needs to find a way to stop the wedding from happening. When Seth accuses Celia of sending him threatening letters, Celia's husband John steps in to help.
This was an okay read, but not the best I've read from Anne Perry. The story takes place around Christmas with forgiveness and honesty as running themes throughout. I enjoyed the mystery of who was sending the threatening letters to Seth Marlowe, and was completely surprised when the sender was revealed.
I received a complimentary copy from Random House Publishing Group - Ballantine through NetGalley. All opinions expressed in my review are my own.
This was an okay read, but not the best I've read from Anne Perry. The story takes place around Christmas with forgiveness and honesty as running themes throughout. I enjoyed the mystery of who was sending the threatening letters to Seth Marlowe, and was completely surprised when the sender was revealed.
I received a complimentary copy from Random House Publishing Group - Ballantine through NetGalley. All opinions expressed in my review are my own.
August 13, 2020
A Christmas Resolution by Anne Perry
What a wonderful book to have on your bookshelves permanently to get out whenever you are not feeling benevolently. I know there are times that I have a hard time with forgiveness or letting go of things from the past. Reading this book it made me pickup the phone after 5 years and have a conversation with a dear friend that we had a falling out over now what was a trivial matter.
Things can be repented and our Savior is their for us, but we have to take that first step.
The author has done an extraordinary job in keeping the characters flowing and interesting!
I would definitely recommend this book!
I received an advanced copy from NetGalley and I am willingly giving my thoughts and opinions!
What a wonderful book to have on your bookshelves permanently to get out whenever you are not feeling benevolently. I know there are times that I have a hard time with forgiveness or letting go of things from the past. Reading this book it made me pickup the phone after 5 years and have a conversation with a dear friend that we had a falling out over now what was a trivial matter.
Things can be repented and our Savior is their for us, but we have to take that first step.
The author has done an extraordinary job in keeping the characters flowing and interesting!
I would definitely recommend this book!
I received an advanced copy from NetGalley and I am willingly giving my thoughts and opinions!
December 20, 2020
Some of Anne Perry's annual Christmas novellas are better than others, and this one didn't make the cut for me. There's not much Christmas in it. But more than that, the characters are enmeshed in such religious desires to be forgiving and tolerant (a result of the teaching of what I consider false doctrine) that they are much too willing to suspend judgment and ignore their instincts. They get to the truth in the end, but it is painful to watch them wrestle unnecessarily with their self-blame for being unforgiving when they are, in fact, ignoring their own good sense and agency. And the constant whipsawing--"this is how I feel--oh, but maybe I'm not supposed to feel this way"--gets old fast.
November 5, 2020
I would be inclined to say that this is a story for kids if it wouldn't be for the girl that chose to be a prostitute. The story, even though is short, feel quite long because absolutely nothing happens until the last 10 pages. The same story is repeated over and over...a man received some mean letters and he is accusing a lady. That's basically it.
November 5, 2020
Definitely not her best
Redundant repetitive stopped reading after 25 pages good book to put you to sleep so disappointing not her best effort
Redundant repetitive stopped reading after 25 pages good book to put you to sleep so disappointing not her best effort
December 26, 2020
3.5 / 5.0 Stars
Author Anne Perry has yet again, delivered a wonderful holiday novella rich, with atmosphere and heart. This story is a bit of a spin-off from her William Monk mystery series, where Monk does make a minor appearance in this story serving in his capacity as commander of The Thames River Police. It is Yuletide, 1872, and the local vicar has just delivered a rousing Advent lesson in forgiveness. One sanctimonious congregant, Seth Marlowe, is so judgmental of all whom he surveys, not the least of which is Celia, wife of John Hooper, an investigating policeman of The Thames River Police. Marlowe is recently engaged to wed Celia's best friend, Clementine - a woman of incredible kindness and grace. He threatens Celia with divulging her past history publicly if she insists on pursuing her close friendship with Clementine and providing advice to her. He obviously wishes to control his new wife with no outside interference. Marlowe is hardened against the vicar's lesson and has no intentions of following its guidance. Marlowe accuses Celia of a heinous act and threatens her with divulging publicly this act as well. In her innocence, she with John's help, seek to find out who the real perpetrator is - offering yet another person in need of absolution.
This lesson of forgiveness provides the thread connecting all the characters in this story - not only the need to forgive others but also forgiveness of those sins and shortcomings of oneself. My sense is that this is a lesson which goes to Ms. Perry's core, given her past history in Christchurch, New Zealand. None of us is exempt from this lesson and I for one am richer for having been reminded of it through this lovely tale.
Author Anne Perry has yet again, delivered a wonderful holiday novella rich, with atmosphere and heart. This story is a bit of a spin-off from her William Monk mystery series, where Monk does make a minor appearance in this story serving in his capacity as commander of The Thames River Police. It is Yuletide, 1872, and the local vicar has just delivered a rousing Advent lesson in forgiveness. One sanctimonious congregant, Seth Marlowe, is so judgmental of all whom he surveys, not the least of which is Celia, wife of John Hooper, an investigating policeman of The Thames River Police. Marlowe is recently engaged to wed Celia's best friend, Clementine - a woman of incredible kindness and grace. He threatens Celia with divulging her past history publicly if she insists on pursuing her close friendship with Clementine and providing advice to her. He obviously wishes to control his new wife with no outside interference. Marlowe is hardened against the vicar's lesson and has no intentions of following its guidance. Marlowe accuses Celia of a heinous act and threatens her with divulging publicly this act as well. In her innocence, she with John's help, seek to find out who the real perpetrator is - offering yet another person in need of absolution.
This lesson of forgiveness provides the thread connecting all the characters in this story - not only the need to forgive others but also forgiveness of those sins and shortcomings of oneself. My sense is that this is a lesson which goes to Ms. Perry's core, given her past history in Christchurch, New Zealand. None of us is exempt from this lesson and I for one am richer for having been reminded of it through this lovely tale.
December 18, 2021
Mlle Alice, pouvez-vous nous raconter votre rencontre avec Le Corbeau de Noël ?
"J'ai eu la chance de le recevoir de la part des éditions 10 18, que je remercie, mais il n'était de toutes façons pas question de passer à côté de ce qui est pour moi désormais une tradition de Noël."
Dites-nous en un peu plus sur son histoire...
"Celia est heureuse dans son nouveau mariage et elle souhaiterait la même chose pour son amie Clémentine. Alors quand celle-ci lui annonce qu'elle est à son tour fiancée, elle aimerait de tout son coeur pouvoir se réjouir pour elle, si seulement le promis n'était pas le sinistre Seth Marlow..."
Mais que s'est-il exactement passé entre vous ?
"Je ne connaissais pas les personnages de ce roman, n'ayant pas lu toute la série des enquêtes de William Monk mais cela ne m'a en aucun cas gênée dans ma lecture et j'ai apprécié les différents héros. Ici, l'enquête s'oriente sur le passé d'un homme et l'identité du corbeau qui lui envoie des lettres de menace, il n'y a ni corps, ni crime sanglant. J'ai trouvé cela interessant, ça change un peu, et on n'en tient pas moins à découvrir la vérité. Après, il faut l'avouer, le mystère n'est pas très grand... Enfin, j'ai également apprécié que le sujet choisi ici par l'auteur pour rendre hommage à Noël soit le pardon mais je pense que les réflexions philosophiques et religieuses risquent d'en ennuyer certains."
Et comment cela s'est-il fini ?
"La fin était un peu abrupte et j'aurais vraiment aimé en savoir plus sur l'avenir du pasteur, de Clémentine et de Marlow... En partie pour ces raisons, ce ne sera pas mon Anne Perry de Noël préféré mais il n'en reste pas moins sympathique."
http://booksaremywonderland.hautetfor...
"J'ai eu la chance de le recevoir de la part des éditions 10 18, que je remercie, mais il n'était de toutes façons pas question de passer à côté de ce qui est pour moi désormais une tradition de Noël."
Dites-nous en un peu plus sur son histoire...
"Celia est heureuse dans son nouveau mariage et elle souhaiterait la même chose pour son amie Clémentine. Alors quand celle-ci lui annonce qu'elle est à son tour fiancée, elle aimerait de tout son coeur pouvoir se réjouir pour elle, si seulement le promis n'était pas le sinistre Seth Marlow..."
Mais que s'est-il exactement passé entre vous ?
"Je ne connaissais pas les personnages de ce roman, n'ayant pas lu toute la série des enquêtes de William Monk mais cela ne m'a en aucun cas gênée dans ma lecture et j'ai apprécié les différents héros. Ici, l'enquête s'oriente sur le passé d'un homme et l'identité du corbeau qui lui envoie des lettres de menace, il n'y a ni corps, ni crime sanglant. J'ai trouvé cela interessant, ça change un peu, et on n'en tient pas moins à découvrir la vérité. Après, il faut l'avouer, le mystère n'est pas très grand... Enfin, j'ai également apprécié que le sujet choisi ici par l'auteur pour rendre hommage à Noël soit le pardon mais je pense que les réflexions philosophiques et religieuses risquent d'en ennuyer certains."
Et comment cela s'est-il fini ?
"La fin était un peu abrupte et j'aurais vraiment aimé en savoir plus sur l'avenir du pasteur, de Clémentine et de Marlow... En partie pour ces raisons, ce ne sera pas mon Anne Perry de Noël préféré mais il n'en reste pas moins sympathique."
http://booksaremywonderland.hautetfor...
November 28, 2021
While I didn’t really know these characters from their main series I enjoyed this story nonetheless. These Christmas novellas are always good and this one was filled with hope and forgiveness.
November 21, 2020
I tried reading an Anne Perry book years ago, my stepmother was a fan, but it didn't work for me, although I no longer recall why. But when I saw this in an email from NetGalley, it sounded good so I decided to request it. I'm glad I did and I may try one of her main series. Although this one featured two minor characters from Perry's William Monk series as the main characters, the book worked fine as a stand alone.
"A Christmas Resolution" is a thoughtful meditation on the nature of forgiveness, friendship and its conflicting obligations, family and its obligations, and, ultimately, love in its many forms. There are several secular mysteries to be solved and the spiritual mystery of forgiveness to explore. Most people find it fairly easy to forgive someone you like or love. But what about someone you dislike or hate? That's far more challenging. When do you forgive and when do you not? If harm was done in the name of love, is that easier or harder to forgive? What about if it was done out of fear? I'm making this sound like a spiritual treatise, and it's not, but there is a spiritual underpinning. There's also a love story, several mysteries, low key action, and moderate levels of angst. "A Christmas Resolution" is very character driven and a lovely detour into the late 1880's in England. The world building is complex and layered and full of small details and psychological insights that build up the story. I was drawn in and hated when I had to put it down. I wanted to finish it but also wanted to savor it. It's a keeper.
"A Christmas Resolution" is a thoughtful meditation on the nature of forgiveness, friendship and its conflicting obligations, family and its obligations, and, ultimately, love in its many forms. There are several secular mysteries to be solved and the spiritual mystery of forgiveness to explore. Most people find it fairly easy to forgive someone you like or love. But what about someone you dislike or hate? That's far more challenging. When do you forgive and when do you not? If harm was done in the name of love, is that easier or harder to forgive? What about if it was done out of fear? I'm making this sound like a spiritual treatise, and it's not, but there is a spiritual underpinning. There's also a love story, several mysteries, low key action, and moderate levels of angst. "A Christmas Resolution" is very character driven and a lovely detour into the late 1880's in England. The world building is complex and layered and full of small details and psychological insights that build up the story. I was drawn in and hated when I had to put it down. I wanted to finish it but also wanted to savor it. It's a keeper.
September 12, 2020
A Christmas Resolution by Anne Perry is a wonderful short novel that is another one of her wonderful gems that features a Christmas timeframe within the historical fiction niche.
I have read several of Ms. Perry’s novels in the past, as well as several of her Christmas novellas, and I enjoyed reading this one as well.
While this does have a Christmas theme, and takes place during the Christmas season, its story and foundations are transcendent.
Here we see the friendship of Celia and Clementine. Celia is newly married to Detective John Hooper (the partner to another main character in another one of her penned series). Celia finds out that Clementine has become betrothed to, whom she feels is a disingenuous man, Seth Marlowe. She sees him as overbearing, opinionated, dominating, and not of good character. Clementine is desperate to be accepted, loved, and looks for the good in people. Celia feels there is something “not right” involving Seth’s past, and she is determined to get to the bottom of it before her friend can make a terrible mistake.
This is an excellent book, with well drawn out characters, and a surprising plot twist. I also truly enjoyed the warm ending. I found the focal themes of: love, friendship, loyalty, acceptance, forgiveness, and faith to fit in perfectly with the story.
A great read by Ms. Perry yet again.
5/5 stars
Thank you NetGalley and Ballantine/Random House for this ARC and in return I am submitting my unbiased and voluntary review and opinion.
I am posting this review to my GR and Bookbub accounts immediately and will post it to my Amazon and B&N accounts upon publication.
I have read several of Ms. Perry’s novels in the past, as well as several of her Christmas novellas, and I enjoyed reading this one as well.
While this does have a Christmas theme, and takes place during the Christmas season, its story and foundations are transcendent.
Here we see the friendship of Celia and Clementine. Celia is newly married to Detective John Hooper (the partner to another main character in another one of her penned series). Celia finds out that Clementine has become betrothed to, whom she feels is a disingenuous man, Seth Marlowe. She sees him as overbearing, opinionated, dominating, and not of good character. Clementine is desperate to be accepted, loved, and looks for the good in people. Celia feels there is something “not right” involving Seth’s past, and she is determined to get to the bottom of it before her friend can make a terrible mistake.
This is an excellent book, with well drawn out characters, and a surprising plot twist. I also truly enjoyed the warm ending. I found the focal themes of: love, friendship, loyalty, acceptance, forgiveness, and faith to fit in perfectly with the story.
A great read by Ms. Perry yet again.
5/5 stars
Thank you NetGalley and Ballantine/Random House for this ARC and in return I am submitting my unbiased and voluntary review and opinion.
I am posting this review to my GR and Bookbub accounts immediately and will post it to my Amazon and B&N accounts upon publication.
January 14, 2021
I read last year's annual Christmas novel from Anne Perry and enjoyed it, so I was looking forward to this one. Generally these Christmas installments feature minor characters from Perry's many book series, and in "A Christmas Resolution" the link is John Hooper, William Monk's associate at the Thames River Police. Hooper is newly and happily married to Celia, a woman he met while investigating a murder case. Now Celia's best friend, Clementine, has announced her own engagement to Seth Marlowe, a man Celia has never liked. But Celia's strained relationship with Marlowe is about to become even more unpleasant when he accuses her of writing threatening letters to him about the death of his first wife, and forbids Clementine to associate with her. Seeing his wife's distress, John Hooper enlists Monk and some colleagues at the Thames Valley Police to investigate Marlowe's past and remove suspicion from his wife.
Perry's books are always well written--she can definitely set a scene, bringing her historical settings to vivid life. The problem is that her mysteries, when reduced to novella length, feel rushed and incomplete. The characters spend a lot of time musing about each other's thoughts and motives, but the reader never fully understands either of those==why, for example, does Seth have so much animosity towards Celia and why would Clementine accept his proposal? Having said this, however, if you're looking for a quick dip into Victorian era England at Christmastime, "A Christmas Resolution" will fill the bill.
Thank you to NetGalley and Ballantine Books for providing me with an ARC of this title in exchange for my honest review.
Perry's books are always well written--she can definitely set a scene, bringing her historical settings to vivid life. The problem is that her mysteries, when reduced to novella length, feel rushed and incomplete. The characters spend a lot of time musing about each other's thoughts and motives, but the reader never fully understands either of those==why, for example, does Seth have so much animosity towards Celia and why would Clementine accept his proposal? Having said this, however, if you're looking for a quick dip into Victorian era England at Christmastime, "A Christmas Resolution" will fill the bill.
Thank you to NetGalley and Ballantine Books for providing me with an ARC of this title in exchange for my honest review.
July 6, 2020
I find that Anne Perry’s Christmas novellas are a welcome harbinger of the Christmas season. The use of some of her secondary characters fulfill my desire to learn more about them in their own setting without being overshadowed by the major characters. A Christmas Resolution allows us to see how Detective John Hooper and his new wife Celia think about the integrity of marriage and the true meaning of forgiveness and how their resolutions effected the outcome of others.
Even though this is a Christmas story, it is a good book for any time of the year to read and to enjoy.
I would like to thank Netgalley and Ballantine Books for an advanced copy of this book.
Even though this is a Christmas story, it is a good book for any time of the year to read and to enjoy.
I would like to thank Netgalley and Ballantine Books for an advanced copy of this book.
November 30, 2020
I'm not really sure why these are Christmas books. With the exception of 2-3 of them, they could really take place at any time of the year, the only indicators that it's Christmas are that the weather is freezing and there is snow or ice on the sidewalks. There's no feel of the excitement of the season, lights, trees, a feast to be prepared. The only one that was really Christmassy was when the main character was trying to give a street urchin a real holiday. In this book it's mentioned in church that Christmas is near and it ends with bells ringing announcing that it's time for midnight mass. Don't get me wrong these are short quick and mostly enjoyable books, but the majority have nothing to do with the actual holiday.
Anyway this story focuses on a colleague of William Monk, John Hooper and his wife Celia who are quite happily married. Celia is close friends with Clementine a woman in her 30's who like Celia herself never thought she'd get married. Now it's announced that she's to marry Seth Marlowe who is an arrogant bullying asshole. He forbids Celia from seeing her good friend and when he gets an anonymous letter blames Celia for it. A look into his past reveals his sister is the late wife of the church's vicar which means the vicar is unable to stand up to him. Seth is a widower himself, his wife drown in the sea in an apparent suicide and his daughter disappeared choosing a life on the street to living with him, which is how you know you've failed as a parent and a human being. Another letter appears and Seth on a rampage accuses Celia and the vicar of trying to smear his name. He even resorts to blackmail over the fact that Celia committed perjury during a murder trial which made little sense since as the story went on it was clear that everyone knew about the perjury and didn't care. John sets out to clear the name ofis beloved wife while Celia tries to make excuses for the asshole, that maybe he's changed and will be a good husband to Clementine because she's an idiot I guess. As I said it was a quick read. It rambled at times got a bit preachy especially given a vicar was involved and had nothing to do with Christmas or a resolution despite the title. 3 1/2 stars really. Not a total waste of time but nothing to get excited about either.
Anyway this story focuses on a colleague of William Monk, John Hooper and his wife Celia who are quite happily married. Celia is close friends with Clementine a woman in her 30's who like Celia herself never thought she'd get married. Now it's announced that she's to marry Seth Marlowe who is an arrogant bullying asshole. He forbids Celia from seeing her good friend and when he gets an anonymous letter blames Celia for it. A look into his past reveals his sister is the late wife of the church's vicar which means the vicar is unable to stand up to him. Seth is a widower himself, his wife drown in the sea in an apparent suicide and his daughter disappeared choosing a life on the street to living with him, which is how you know you've failed as a parent and a human being. Another letter appears and Seth on a rampage accuses Celia and the vicar of trying to smear his name. He even resorts to blackmail over the fact that Celia committed perjury during a murder trial which made little sense since as the story went on it was clear that everyone knew about the perjury and didn't care. John sets out to clear the name ofis beloved wife while Celia tries to make excuses for the asshole, that maybe he's changed and will be a good husband to Clementine because she's an idiot I guess. As I said it was a quick read. It rambled at times got a bit preachy especially given a vicar was involved and had nothing to do with Christmas or a resolution despite the title. 3 1/2 stars really. Not a total waste of time but nothing to get excited about either.
November 18, 2020
Reflections on people being noisy into others lives as well as jealousy are the underlying themes in this novel. Quick read based in England. Celia and Clementine are friends in a small town off the Thames. Celia is married to John Hooper, married rather later in life. Clementine is in her 30s, but still unwed. However, that is to change when Seth Marlowe, a widower, decides to marry. Seth Marlowe is an unlikeable character. Judgmental and fiercely religious, he tends to put off those around him with his criticism. He is the brother-in-law of the local vicar, Andrew Roberson.
When Clementine agrees to marry Marlowe, Celia is dumbfounded. She cannot understand what could lead a sweet woman like Clementine to want to be with a stern, unfriendly Marlowe. She does not voice her concerns, though, being that Marlowe has already threatened to cut off her friendship. Celia does her best to toe the line with Marlowe, until something is unearthed that threatens her own standing in the community.
Not really classified as a Christmas season book in my opinion more of a mystery.
When Clementine agrees to marry Marlowe, Celia is dumbfounded. She cannot understand what could lead a sweet woman like Clementine to want to be with a stern, unfriendly Marlowe. She does not voice her concerns, though, being that Marlowe has already threatened to cut off her friendship. Celia does her best to toe the line with Marlowe, until something is unearthed that threatens her own standing in the community.
Not really classified as a Christmas season book in my opinion more of a mystery.
Want to read
November 3, 2020In 1872 Thames, Celia Hooper learns her friend is to be married to a man with a murky past that no one seems to like, even his brother in law, the Pastor. As soon as she raises her doubts, she is accused of trying to sabotage the marriage and threatened. Celia's husband just happens to be Detective Hooper of the Thames River Police. To ease his wife's worries and insure her safety, Detective Hooper starts to investigate the groom to be with surprising results.
Anne Perry is well known for the quality of her Victorian police dramas and her cast of well loved characters. Each year she writes a Christmas novella, this is the 18th. Each novella is a stand alone but features many of the supporting characters from her series books. Although short enough to read in an evening, the full Anne Perry reading experience is definitely included. An absolute must read.
Anne Perry is well known for the quality of her Victorian police dramas and her cast of well loved characters. Each year she writes a Christmas novella, this is the 18th. Each novella is a stand alone but features many of the supporting characters from her series books. Although short enough to read in an evening, the full Anne Perry reading experience is definitely included. An absolute must read.
December 15, 2021
I have read dozens of Anne Perry’s mysteries, and 14 or 15 of her Christmas novellas, but I stepped back from her and haven’t read one in quite a while.
She has always been a favorite of mine. I love the Victorian setting, and how she makes her characters extremely real.
However, she has a style of writing where she spends a great deal of time inside a person’s head. You hear their thoughts. You hear all the questions they’re thinking about the situation. Sometimes I think she over does it a bit.
Still, this book was well written, and touched on themes of Christmas, and I enjoyed it.
She has always been a favorite of mine. I love the Victorian setting, and how she makes her characters extremely real.
However, she has a style of writing where she spends a great deal of time inside a person’s head. You hear their thoughts. You hear all the questions they’re thinking about the situation. Sometimes I think she over does it a bit.
Still, this book was well written, and touched on themes of Christmas, and I enjoyed it.
October 27, 2020
I have read a few of Anne Perry's works. This was an interesting read. It has great characters and a wonderful message about forgiveness. It takes place in a small village off of the great Pool of London in the mid to late 1800's. There is a little bit of mystery to it, in trying to find out who is sending "poison pen" letters to a recently settled aristocrat in the area. He accuses one of the villages women to writing it and threatens to "expose" her for the liar he believes her to be. I felt that this was a quick read with wonderful prose.
November 7, 2020
OMG! YES! Huge thanks to Random House for allowing me to read this book! I absolutely loved it.
The setting of this wonderful read, occurs within an English town, during the Christmas holiday. It had amazing characters, a great storyline and really set my mood for holiday reading! It covers a wide array of themes! We experience holiday spirit, kindness, honesty and friendship on a few different levels and just an overall great read!
The setting of this wonderful read, occurs within an English town, during the Christmas holiday. It had amazing characters, a great storyline and really set my mood for holiday reading! It covers a wide array of themes! We experience holiday spirit, kindness, honesty and friendship on a few different levels and just an overall great read!
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