What do you think?
Rate this book
Ghostly Fashionista Mystery #3
Christmas Cloches and Corpses
Max's nephew, Dwight, is in a nursing home; but instead of the holiday season being a time of goodwill, several of Dwight's friends have died under mysterious circumstances. Is the facility merely suffering a run of bad luck, or is there something sinister going on?
Either way, Max, the Ghostly Fashionista, is determined not to let her beloved nephew be the next victim and enlists Amanda to help keep an eye on him. But someone drugs the cake that Amanda gives Dwight, and Amanda is banned from visiting him again. It's going to take a Christmas miracle for Amanda to clear her name and stay out of the killer's line of fire...
Either way, Max, the Ghostly Fashionista, is determined not to let her beloved nephew be the next victim and enlists Amanda to help keep an eye on him. But someone drugs the cake that Amanda gives Dwight, and Amanda is banned from visiting him again. It's going to take a Christmas miracle for Amanda to clear her name and stay out of the killer's line of fire...
282 pages, Paperback
Published November 13, 2020
53 people are currently reading
103 people want to read
About the author
Gayle Leeson
30 books502 followersGayle Leeson is a pseudonym for Gayle Trent. I also write as Amanda Lee. As Gayle Trent, I write the Daphne Martin Cake Mystery series and the Myrtle Crumb Mystery series. As Amanda Lee, I write the Embroidery Mystery series.
The cake decorating series features a heroine who is starting her life over in Southwest Virginia after a nasty divorce. The heroine, Daphne, has returned to her hometown of Brea Ridge to open a cake baking and decorating business and is wrestling with the question of whether or not one can go home again. She enjoys spending time with her sister, nephew, and niece, but she and her mother have a complicated relationship that isn’t always pleasant. Daphne has also reconnected with her high school sweetheart and is pursuing a rekindled romance while desperately trying to put her past behind her.
Kerry Vincent, Hall of Fame Sugar Artist, Oklahoma State Sugar Art Show Director, and Television Personality says the series is “a must read for cake bakers and anyone who has ever spent creative time in the kitchen!”
Says Dean Koontz, #1 New York Times bestselling author, “One day I found myself happily reading . . . mysteries by Gayle Trent. If she can win me over . . . she’s got a great future.”
The Embroidery Mystery series features a heroine who recently moved to the Oregon coast to open an embroidery specialty shop. Marcy Singer left her home in San Francisco, along with the humiliation of being left at the altar, in order to move to Tallulah Falls and realize her dream of owning her own shop. She takes along her faithful companion, a one-year-old Irish wolfhound named Angus O’Ruff. She makes many new friends in Tallulah Falls, but she also makes a few enemies. Thankfully, her best friend Sadie MacKenzie and her husband Blake run the coffeehouse right down the street from Marcy’s shop, the Seven-Year Stitch; and Detective Ted Nash always has her back.
Publishers Weekly says, “Fans of the genre will take kindly to Marcy, her Irish wolfhound, Angus O’Ruff, and Tallulah Falls. This is a fast, pleasant read with prose full of pop culture references and, of course, sharp needlework puns.”
Pat Cooper of RT Book Reviews says, “If her debut here is any indication, Lee’s new series is going to be fun, spunky and educational. She smoothly interweaves plot with her character’s personality and charm, while dropping tantalizing hints of stitching projects and their history. Marcy Singer is young, fun, sharp and likable. Readers will be looking forward to her future adventures.” (RT Book Reviews nominated The Quick and the Thread for a 2010 Book Reviewers’ Choice Award in the Amateur Sleuth category)
I live in Virginia with my family, which includes her own “Angus” who is not an Irish wolfhound but a Great Pyrenees who provides plenty of inspiration for the character of Mr. O’Ruff. I'm having a blast writing this new series!
The cake decorating series features a heroine who is starting her life over in Southwest Virginia after a nasty divorce. The heroine, Daphne, has returned to her hometown of Brea Ridge to open a cake baking and decorating business and is wrestling with the question of whether or not one can go home again. She enjoys spending time with her sister, nephew, and niece, but she and her mother have a complicated relationship that isn’t always pleasant. Daphne has also reconnected with her high school sweetheart and is pursuing a rekindled romance while desperately trying to put her past behind her.
Kerry Vincent, Hall of Fame Sugar Artist, Oklahoma State Sugar Art Show Director, and Television Personality says the series is “a must read for cake bakers and anyone who has ever spent creative time in the kitchen!”
Says Dean Koontz, #1 New York Times bestselling author, “One day I found myself happily reading . . . mysteries by Gayle Trent. If she can win me over . . . she’s got a great future.”
The Embroidery Mystery series features a heroine who recently moved to the Oregon coast to open an embroidery specialty shop. Marcy Singer left her home in San Francisco, along with the humiliation of being left at the altar, in order to move to Tallulah Falls and realize her dream of owning her own shop. She takes along her faithful companion, a one-year-old Irish wolfhound named Angus O’Ruff. She makes many new friends in Tallulah Falls, but she also makes a few enemies. Thankfully, her best friend Sadie MacKenzie and her husband Blake run the coffeehouse right down the street from Marcy’s shop, the Seven-Year Stitch; and Detective Ted Nash always has her back.
Publishers Weekly says, “Fans of the genre will take kindly to Marcy, her Irish wolfhound, Angus O’Ruff, and Tallulah Falls. This is a fast, pleasant read with prose full of pop culture references and, of course, sharp needlework puns.”
Pat Cooper of RT Book Reviews says, “If her debut here is any indication, Lee’s new series is going to be fun, spunky and educational. She smoothly interweaves plot with her character’s personality and charm, while dropping tantalizing hints of stitching projects and their history. Marcy Singer is young, fun, sharp and likable. Readers will be looking forward to her future adventures.” (RT Book Reviews nominated The Quick and the Thread for a 2010 Book Reviewers’ Choice Award in the Amateur Sleuth category)
I live in Virginia with my family, which includes her own “Angus” who is not an Irish wolfhound but a Great Pyrenees who provides plenty of inspiration for the character of Mr. O’Ruff. I'm having a blast writing this new series!
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews
November 25, 2020
Fun paranormal (ghost) story. I really enjoy how the ghost interacts with the story whether she’s spying for clues to the mystery or what someone wants for Christmas! I also enjoy the protagonist’s occupation making vintage clothes and the cute cat.
December 20, 2020
Entertaining cozy featuring a ghost in the building a clothing designer rents. The ghost is a cool, fun character and the protagonist’s cat can see her, too! Great story! I recommend this series to those who love cozies with ghosts.
November 23, 2020
Another fun mystery with Amanda & Max and it's perfect holiday reading! Amanda gets involved in the murder of residents at a nursing center and has to prove "whodunit" before she becomes a victim. I loved having Amanda's grandfather, Zoe and Dwight play major parts in the story. Amanda is feisty as ever and has the lovable ghost Max to back her up. If you want a cozy with a fast-paced mystery, humor, fun supporting characters and a story you'll love, this is the book for you!
November 8, 2020
Christmas Cloches and Corpses, the latest in the A Ghostly Fashionista Mystery Series by Gayle Leeson has it all. It can be read as a stand alone as Leeson does a wonderful job getting you up to date. I truly have enjoyed this entire series.
Christmas is coming and Amanda is busy making her custom made retro clothing with her resident ghost, Maxine, overseeing. Everything is going smooth until her high school part timer brings a problem to Amanda. The nursing home where her Grandpa Dwight is a resident, is seeing unexplained deaths and he is afraid he could be next since he was close to the first two residents. Dwight is also Maxi's nephew so it is a given Amanda will be checking into what is going on. Will she be able to get to the bottom of the deaths or will Dwight be next.
Leeson gives you plenty of plot twists, likeable characters, family, friendship, humor, romance, and everyday life. I did not want to put it down. I just wish I go visit the Shops on Main and Amanda's shop.
I was given an ARC for an honest review.
Christmas is coming and Amanda is busy making her custom made retro clothing with her resident ghost, Maxine, overseeing. Everything is going smooth until her high school part timer brings a problem to Amanda. The nursing home where her Grandpa Dwight is a resident, is seeing unexplained deaths and he is afraid he could be next since he was close to the first two residents. Dwight is also Maxi's nephew so it is a given Amanda will be checking into what is going on. Will she be able to get to the bottom of the deaths or will Dwight be next.
Leeson gives you plenty of plot twists, likeable characters, family, friendship, humor, romance, and everyday life. I did not want to put it down. I just wish I go visit the Shops on Main and Amanda's shop.
I was given an ARC for an honest review.
March 29, 2025
A story set around Christmas with multiple story lines. The book was an easy read.
December 12, 2020
Another great book in this series. Love this series.
November 19, 2020
Merry Christmas
It's Christmas time and seniors are dying at the nursing home. It's up to Max and Amanda to make sure nothing happens to Max's nephew Dwight. Amanda also gets to meet Jason's family and has to get a secret Santa gift for the grouchy building manager. This was a fun read and I'm looking forward to the next one.
It's Christmas time and seniors are dying at the nursing home. It's up to Max and Amanda to make sure nothing happens to Max's nephew Dwight. Amanda also gets to meet Jason's family and has to get a secret Santa gift for the grouchy building manager. This was a fun read and I'm looking forward to the next one.
November 8, 2020
I wouldn’t normally read a mystery that centers around fashion since in depth descriptions of what everyone is wearing bores me to tears but, since I’ve enjoyed several of the author’s other series, I decided to give this one a try. And I’m glad that I did. Although there is some talk about clothing in the book, it was in no way the main focus. Instead I got a fun ghost, really likable characters - including some of the best written seniors I’ve seen in a story in quite a while, and an interesting mystery. I need to go back and read the earlier books in this series.
May 24, 2021
I'm conflicted about how to rate this book. The plot was well written, and the story was interesting. I guess I'm getting too close to the age where a retirement home might be in my future, so I don't particularly like reading about ones where crimes are committed against their residents.
My biggest complaint was that everything ended too abruptly. We found out why the residents were dying, but we didn't get to see the happy wrap ups of the sub plots other than to know they all happened between the next to last and last chapters.
This didn't affect my actual rating but I didn't like that there wasn't a clickable index for the Kindle version. I don't always read books straight through from beginning to end and it was frustrating not having any way to look forward or go back and reread. I like to know how much time it will take to read a chapter before I start a new chapter. Without the index, all I could see was how much time remained in the book.
My biggest complaint was that everything ended too abruptly. We found out why the residents were dying, but we didn't get to see the happy wrap ups of the sub plots other than to know they all happened between the next to last and last chapters.
This didn't affect my actual rating but I didn't like that there wasn't a clickable index for the Kindle version. I don't always read books straight through from beginning to end and it was frustrating not having any way to look forward or go back and reread. I like to know how much time it will take to read a chapter before I start a new chapter. Without the index, all I could see was how much time remained in the book.
March 17, 2023
CHRISTMAS CLOCHES AND CORPSES by Gayle Leeson
The Third Ghostly Fashionista Mystery
Something fishy is going on at the Winter Garden Nursing Home. Within days residents have suddenly died and Dwight believes he may be next. Amanda Tucker wonders if her ghostly friend’s nephew is merely being paranoid, but a visit to the facility has her worried. Shifty administrators and nasty nurses too eager to sedate the residents give credence to Dwight’s belief that something’s not right. Will Amanda be able to help, even if the man’s daughter doesn’t want her involved?
I really enjoyed this third visit with Amanda, Max, and the gang. I love the relationship between Amanda and her grandfather, as well as seeing how the love reaches out to Max, Zoe, and Dwight. Most of the characters here are great, including the precocious girl who comes to visit and even the dour Ms. Oakes.
I enjoyed the mystery and the sad reality that people in some nursing homes face. Despite that reality, the Ghostly Fashionista Mystery series is positive and uplifting. There's such a sense of community, from the shop owners of Shops on Main who come together to celebrate Christmas and help a young detective to Max's family and friends-all coming together to protect one of their own. There is one character, whoever, who really made me mad. I can't stand Maggie. While many people make excuses for her, I find her behavior intolerable. I wouldn't mind if she was the victim in a future story, although I suppose keeping her alive adds conflict to the stories.
Although I am far from being a fashionista, I love reading the details about the vintage clothing Amanda makes. Add the fun of a ghostly spitfire who also has a heart of gold and you have a heartwarming series that makes you smile and laugh out loud.
With the backdrop of Christmas CHRISTMAS CLOCHES AND CORPSES delivers a fun, yet touching mystery.
The Third Ghostly Fashionista Mystery
Something fishy is going on at the Winter Garden Nursing Home. Within days residents have suddenly died and Dwight believes he may be next. Amanda Tucker wonders if her ghostly friend’s nephew is merely being paranoid, but a visit to the facility has her worried. Shifty administrators and nasty nurses too eager to sedate the residents give credence to Dwight’s belief that something’s not right. Will Amanda be able to help, even if the man’s daughter doesn’t want her involved?
I really enjoyed this third visit with Amanda, Max, and the gang. I love the relationship between Amanda and her grandfather, as well as seeing how the love reaches out to Max, Zoe, and Dwight. Most of the characters here are great, including the precocious girl who comes to visit and even the dour Ms. Oakes.
I enjoyed the mystery and the sad reality that people in some nursing homes face. Despite that reality, the Ghostly Fashionista Mystery series is positive and uplifting. There's such a sense of community, from the shop owners of Shops on Main who come together to celebrate Christmas and help a young detective to Max's family and friends-all coming together to protect one of their own. There is one character, whoever, who really made me mad. I can't stand Maggie. While many people make excuses for her, I find her behavior intolerable. I wouldn't mind if she was the victim in a future story, although I suppose keeping her alive adds conflict to the stories.
Although I am far from being a fashionista, I love reading the details about the vintage clothing Amanda makes. Add the fun of a ghostly spitfire who also has a heart of gold and you have a heartwarming series that makes you smile and laugh out loud.
With the backdrop of Christmas CHRISTMAS CLOCHES AND CORPSES delivers a fun, yet touching mystery.
December 11, 2021
I’m enjoying this series very much and I like that in this book, two others besides Amanda and her grandfather can see and communicate with Max. My favorite part of this series is reading how Amanda meets with the client and designs exactly the most perfect gown. Sometimes for me, the murder is secondary. We also meet two unpleasant people and unfortunately Amanda has to put up with both. Maggie is the almost victim’s daughter who doesn’t appreciate any help or assistance from Amanda. The woman has an enormous boulder on her shoulder and takes even the slightest offer as if she’s being paraded across town with a “Bad Daughter Worse Mother” banner across her chest. And then there’s her boyfriend’s mother who wears a perpetual scowl doesn’t even pretend to be nice to Amanda. Now that I’m hooked on this series I can’t wait to find out what’s next for Amanda and Maxi.
July 2, 2024
I have always liked Christmas episodes in all the series of books I have read, so this one was most special.I liked how they could provide the ghost, Max modern conveniences through our present day electronics. It has saved the day a couple of times, so far. The characters, both main and supporting, have become endeared to me, the plot is straightforward and easily followed, and the premise this time, was finding out why nursing home patients were dying where Max's nephew lived. The answers are a bit surprising and I was totally buffaloed by who the "bad guy" was. I totally recommend this book.
May 24, 2024
Wonderful!
Having found Max’s nephew and his granddaughter in the previous installments of this series Amanda and Grandpa Dave’s family has grown exponentially and it’s been an amazing ride. Now when Dwight suspects foul play at his nursing home when several of his friends die unexpectedly, Amanda, Max and another distant relative, Detective Ryan (from the Down South Cafe series), are determined that they’ll all have a merry Christmas. This one was a page turner that kept me up until the wee hours!
Having found Max’s nephew and his granddaughter in the previous installments of this series Amanda and Grandpa Dave’s family has grown exponentially and it’s been an amazing ride. Now when Dwight suspects foul play at his nursing home when several of his friends die unexpectedly, Amanda, Max and another distant relative, Detective Ryan (from the Down South Cafe series), are determined that they’ll all have a merry Christmas. This one was a page turner that kept me up until the wee hours!
December 3, 2022
I enjoyed this third in the series. Max needs Amanda's help when elderly start to die when they seem to be healthy. Dwight begins to fear for his life and somehow Amanda becomes a suspect and must clear her name.
I love these characters and their interactions, especially Amanda's relationship with her grandfather. A good mystery that kept me guessing and I figured it out with Amanda. I will continue on with this series.
I love these characters and their interactions, especially Amanda's relationship with her grandfather. A good mystery that kept me guessing and I figured it out with Amanda. I will continue on with this series.
October 5, 2025
An easy read with a good pace and interesting mystery. I enjoy the characters in this series, especially Max. Her involvement in the goings on of the book is very creative on Leeson's part. I thought I knew who the culprit was, but wasn't sure until close to the reveal. I will definitely continue with the series.
December 18, 2020
This series is so much fun!
I really hope to see more of Amanda, Max, Gramps and all the rest. It's a fun way to spend a few hours in a well researched vintage fashion cozy. I do recommend them.
I really hope to see more of Amanda, Max, Gramps and all the rest. It's a fun way to spend a few hours in a well researched vintage fashion cozy. I do recommend them.
December 26, 2020
Fantastic series
This author has a way of writing that draws you in. I hope this series continues. I love hearing about Max and her life while she was alive. Now seeing how she adapts to being a ghost and life in the current times. Great cozy mystery!
This author has a way of writing that draws you in. I hope this series continues. I love hearing about Max and her life while she was alive. Now seeing how she adapts to being a ghost and life in the current times. Great cozy mystery!
March 9, 2021
Who is killing the people at the nursing home and why??? AND what is that nurse up to??? I read that a cruise is really cheaper than a nursing home and they don’t kill half a many people!!! I enjoyed the story and recommend the book.
August 19, 2021
Such a fun read!
Max, Amanda, and Grandpa Dave are quite the trio, and the other characters are a blast, too! The mystery is engaging with a couple of surprises, and the happy ending is most welcome.
Max, Amanda, and Grandpa Dave are quite the trio, and the other characters are a blast, too! The mystery is engaging with a couple of surprises, and the happy ending is most welcome.
March 14, 2023
Excellent
Wow this one sure had me on the edge of my seat. There were several suspects this time around. I had am inkling as to who it was but just wasn't sure of the motive. Can't wait to try the banana pudding recipe.
Wow this one sure had me on the edge of my seat. There were several suspects this time around. I had am inkling as to who it was but just wasn't sure of the motive. Can't wait to try the banana pudding recipe.
December 31, 2020
Really enjoy this series. Great characters. A fun quick read.
February 28, 2021
Proves family is not always blood. The are unexplained deaths going on at the nursing home where a friend's grandfather lives. There is division but in the end they all come together.
July 13, 2021
Love love love this series!!
August 30, 2021
Loving the story
Such a interesting and cute story . Love the clothes she makes as the stoty evolves
Would recommend to read the books
Such a interesting and cute story . Love the clothes she makes as the stoty evolves
Would recommend to read the books
December 19, 2021
Loved it
April 25, 2023
Another great story !
This is the third in this series. All have been wonderful ! The characters are wonderful. I'm sure that you will enjoy this series !
This is the third in this series. All have been wonderful ! The characters are wonderful. I'm sure that you will enjoy this series !
May 15, 2024
This series keeps getting better and better. Lively characters and an even livelier ghost! A fun read!
May 20, 2021
Loved Christmas Cloches and Corpses: A ghostly Fashionista Mystery, #3 by Gayle Leeson.
November 29, 2020
I love this author, and even though I'm not interested in paranormal mysteries, I started reading this series because I was relatively certain I would enjoy it due to the author. Her writing is excellent, with just the perfect amount of detail. I have devoured every book in this series. Both the characters and the plots are fresh and interesting. I feel this book is the best in an excellent series. I loved the crossover with characters from another of this Ms. Leeson's series. I look forward to more books in this series.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews