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Mrs. Claus #3
Mrs. Claus and the Evil Elves
April Claus is getting an early gift for her second Christmas in Santaland. Her dear friend, Claire, is visiting from Oregon, and April hopes to show off her adoptive country at its cozy, glittering best. But when the annual ice sculpture contest is derailed by a kamikaze drone-deer, it’s just the first in a series of un-festive events…
Drone-deer, created by inventor elf Blinky Brightlow, are none too popular with the genuine, flesh-and-hoof kind, who are currently on strike. With no reindeer games to keep them in shape, Nick worries they may get too chunky to pull his sleigh come Christmas. Now Blinky is missing, his girlfriend, Juniper, is under suspicion, and between rogue reindeer and conniving elves, all of Santaland seems to have gone sugarplum-crazy. Add a dash of murder to the mix, and suddenly April is battling not just to clear Juniper’s name, but to save herself from being put on ice—permanently…
Drone-deer, created by inventor elf Blinky Brightlow, are none too popular with the genuine, flesh-and-hoof kind, who are currently on strike. With no reindeer games to keep them in shape, Nick worries they may get too chunky to pull his sleigh come Christmas. Now Blinky is missing, his girlfriend, Juniper, is under suspicion, and between rogue reindeer and conniving elves, all of Santaland seems to have gone sugarplum-crazy. Add a dash of murder to the mix, and suddenly April is battling not just to clear Juniper’s name, but to save herself from being put on ice—permanently…
306 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 27, 2022
58 people are currently reading
478 people want to read
About the author
Liz Ireland
66 books261 followersLiz was born in Texas and credits a rural upbringing in a houseful of books for her lifelong love of stories. After earning a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Theater from Southern Methodist University in Dallas, she moved to New York and worked various jobs (book clerk, world’s slowest professional typist, substitute teacher) before landing a job in publishing. Since then, she’s made her home in Austin, Portland (Oregon), Ottawa, Montreal, and now Vancouver Island in British Columbia. In her free time, she enjoys playing in local concert bands, watching classic films, and—of course—reading. In addition to her writing career, Liz has worked for two decades as a fiction editor. She’s a member of Mystery Writers of America, Sisters in Crime, and has served as a regional representative for Crime Writers of Canada.
Under the pen name Liz Freeland, Liz writes the Louise Faulk historical mystery series. She also writes women's fiction as Elizabeth Bass.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 133 reviews
January 19, 2023
Mrs. Claus and the Evil Elves by Liz Ireland is the third book in the cozy Mrs. Claus series. As with most cozy mystery series each book in the Mrs. Claus series features it’s own mystery that will be fully solved with that book so they can each be read as a standalone or in any order if choosing to do so. There will be some character development that carries over from book to book though for those that follow the series from the beginning.
April Claus was just a regular woman living in the United States when she met Nick, the man she just knew she’d be spending the rest of her life with. What April didn’t know or suspect at the time was that the wonderful Nick she was going to marry was none other than THE Santa Claus. After marrying Nick April found herself moving to Christmastown in Santaland at the North Pole and living among elves with Christmas celebrated year round.
It’s coming up quickly on April’s second Christmas in Santaland and she’s hoping that this holiday season will go better than the last. April has her friend, Claire, visiting from April’s hometown of Oregon and hopes only to showcase Christmastown in it’s glittery festive best but things do not go to plan during the annual ice sculpture contest and April quickly finds herself investigating yet another incident this holiday season.
Liz Ireland’s Mrs. Claus series is the type of cozy that will have the reader laughing out loud from the beginning to end. The characters are of course are everything you would think you would find in Santa’s village and get up to the craziest antics to create havoc for April to untangle in each read and this third installment wasn’t any different in it’s quirky craziness. Definitely one that I enjoy returning to with each new book in the series.
I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.com/
April Claus was just a regular woman living in the United States when she met Nick, the man she just knew she’d be spending the rest of her life with. What April didn’t know or suspect at the time was that the wonderful Nick she was going to marry was none other than THE Santa Claus. After marrying Nick April found herself moving to Christmastown in Santaland at the North Pole and living among elves with Christmas celebrated year round.
It’s coming up quickly on April’s second Christmas in Santaland and she’s hoping that this holiday season will go better than the last. April has her friend, Claire, visiting from April’s hometown of Oregon and hopes only to showcase Christmastown in it’s glittery festive best but things do not go to plan during the annual ice sculpture contest and April quickly finds herself investigating yet another incident this holiday season.
Liz Ireland’s Mrs. Claus series is the type of cozy that will have the reader laughing out loud from the beginning to end. The characters are of course are everything you would think you would find in Santa’s village and get up to the craziest antics to create havoc for April to untangle in each read and this third installment wasn’t any different in it’s quirky craziness. Definitely one that I enjoy returning to with each new book in the series.
I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.com/
September 27, 2022
***Now Available***
This is a Cozy Mystery, and this is the third book in the Mrs. Claus series. I have read the second book in this series before picking up this book, but I do think you can read this book as a standalone without any problems. I find this book to be a cute and fun read. The characters are cute and fun. I love the Christmas setting in this book, and I love the main character Mrs. Claus. The mystery in this book was fun and kept me guessing, but the main thing I love about this book is the characters and the setting. The ending was so great, and I loved it so much. This is a great cozy mystery series. The only thing I did not love about this book is that the murder did not happen until almost at the half way point of the book. I was kindly provided an e-copy of this book by the publisher (Kensington Cozies) or author (Liz Ireland) via NetGalley, so I can give an honest review about how I feel about this book. I want to send a big Thank you to them for that.
This is a Cozy Mystery, and this is the third book in the Mrs. Claus series. I have read the second book in this series before picking up this book, but I do think you can read this book as a standalone without any problems. I find this book to be a cute and fun read. The characters are cute and fun. I love the Christmas setting in this book, and I love the main character Mrs. Claus. The mystery in this book was fun and kept me guessing, but the main thing I love about this book is the characters and the setting. The ending was so great, and I loved it so much. This is a great cozy mystery series. The only thing I did not love about this book is that the murder did not happen until almost at the half way point of the book. I was kindly provided an e-copy of this book by the publisher (Kensington Cozies) or author (Liz Ireland) via NetGalley, so I can give an honest review about how I feel about this book. I want to send a big Thank you to them for that.
September 30, 2022
April Claus is thrilled that, for her second Christmas as Mrs. Claus, she is able to host her friend Claire at the North Pole. However, on top of the normal holiday chaos, there are new challenges. The reindeer are on strike. Someone scares the crowd at the annual ice sculpture contest with a drone-deer. And April’s friend Jupiter is worried about her boyfriend. Can April juggle all of this with her normal Mrs. Claus duties?
Obviously, there is quite a lot happening here. It’s all balanced perfectly with plenty of action and twists in the mystery to keep us engaged the entire time. April leads a cast of charming characters, and I enjoyed the growth in some relationships. The fantasy setting is wonderfully realized. I love getting lost in this world, and I can only imagine how much fun it would be to read this in December. Then there’s the humor. Claire’s reactions to some of the things she sees are priceless, and there are other great moments, too. Yet the more serious themes and elements work as well. If you have yet to start this series, you are in for a treat. Fans will find the Christmas spirit here no matter when they pick up the book.
NOTE: I received an ARC of this book.
Read my full review at Carstairs Considers.
Obviously, there is quite a lot happening here. It’s all balanced perfectly with plenty of action and twists in the mystery to keep us engaged the entire time. April leads a cast of charming characters, and I enjoyed the growth in some relationships. The fantasy setting is wonderfully realized. I love getting lost in this world, and I can only imagine how much fun it would be to read this in December. Then there’s the humor. Claire’s reactions to some of the things she sees are priceless, and there are other great moments, too. Yet the more serious themes and elements work as well. If you have yet to start this series, you are in for a treat. Fans will find the Christmas spirit here no matter when they pick up the book.
NOTE: I received an ARC of this book.
Read my full review at Carstairs Considers.
July 4, 2022
Publication Sept. 27, 2022
Fun! I loved it! Quirky characters! Santaland! Santa Claus. Sugarplums! Candy canes! Elves! Flying reindeer! And, oh, yeah, murder.
April and Nick have been married a year-and-a-half and she's still not quite adjusted to life in Santaland. Come on. How long would it take you to adjust to being Mrs Claus and living amidst talking snowmen, elves, not just flying but talking reindeer with an attitude, and getting about in a reindeer powered sled?
Life in Santaland isn't all sugarplums and candy canes, however. Something is afoot. The reindeer are on strike. Then, a kamikazee drone reindeer crashes into a stunning ice sculpture. It's towing a banner saying: "This is just the beginning!!!" The beginning of what? Where did it come from? Is that a threat? Who controlled it? April vows to find out. Then things get worse. Someone is found murdered.
Ironically, I found myself so caught up in the whimsy of the delightful world Liz Ireland has created for us that I almost forgot about the murder at times. I mean, drone reindeer? Clogging elves? A robot elf servant in the Claus castle? Antler toupees? Snowmen on hover-boards? Talking snowmen, at that? How do you put a living snowman back together after they've, well, been powderized by a crash on said hover-board? All this and more, oh, so much more, while April is entertaining Claire, a friend from Oregon who arrives disbelieving. Can you blame her? At least she likes the cold. She also makes a great ice cream.
The mystery starts with a missing man, er, elf, Blinky. He's a bit, well, odd. An eccentric genius, let's say, and has had a habit of going off alone at times. This time, however, he has a girlfriend, Juniper. At least she thinks she's his girlfriend. She hasn't heard from him and is worried. April isn't so sure but wants to support Juniper, even when Juniper is arrested for killing a long time friend with a crush on her. If you're going to be arrested, however, I must admit that Santaland sounds like the best place to be arrested and spend your time in jail.
I don't want to give away any more of the plot or the delight that is Santaland, so won't detail the plot further. Let's just say, Santaland is both everything we ever imagined the North Pole to be like and nothing like our dreams. The reindeer are competitive, we've all heard of those reindeer games, but resent the gradual intrusion of technology into their world. Heck, so do many of the residents. The reindeer aren't the only ones who might lose their jobs. April's experiences with the robot maid are a perfect illustration of what can go wrong, not to mention that the sedentary snowmen are hardly cut out for nimbly guiding hover-boards. That said, even 12 year-old Christopher Claus, who will take over as Santa when he is 21, wants a robot for Christmas. Nick is sort of a Santa Regent, so to speak.
Is the murder related to the encroachment of technology into Santaland? Are the competitive reindeer causing the problems? What would Christmas be like without reindeer? Will Nick, er, Santa be able to soothe nerves and bring all the factions together in time for Christmas Eve? Even Pamela, the usually serene grand dame elder Mrs. Claus, dumps food over someone's head. Whoa.
They've called in detective Jake Frost to help. Although this is my first read of this series, it's obvious he's known to both Nick and April and, oh, my, visiting Claire is entranced on first sight. Will April be able to solve the murder, attend all the ceremonial festivities, soothe her reindeer friends, keep her red suited husband safe, and referee Claire's attraction to Jake, not to mention the fireworks display that sounds a bit, well, overboard? You're just going to have to read the book. Set aside your rational self, buy into the fantasy, and enjoy a great mystery with some of the quirkiest characters you can imagine. Fun!
Thank you, thank you, #NetGalley and #KensingtonBooks for taking me away on a fun, imaginary trip to Santaland. Murder aside, I want to go back! Thanks for introducing me to this series.
Fun! I loved it! Quirky characters! Santaland! Santa Claus. Sugarplums! Candy canes! Elves! Flying reindeer! And, oh, yeah, murder.
April and Nick have been married a year-and-a-half and she's still not quite adjusted to life in Santaland. Come on. How long would it take you to adjust to being Mrs Claus and living amidst talking snowmen, elves, not just flying but talking reindeer with an attitude, and getting about in a reindeer powered sled?
Life in Santaland isn't all sugarplums and candy canes, however. Something is afoot. The reindeer are on strike. Then, a kamikazee drone reindeer crashes into a stunning ice sculpture. It's towing a banner saying: "This is just the beginning!!!" The beginning of what? Where did it come from? Is that a threat? Who controlled it? April vows to find out. Then things get worse. Someone is found murdered.
Ironically, I found myself so caught up in the whimsy of the delightful world Liz Ireland has created for us that I almost forgot about the murder at times. I mean, drone reindeer? Clogging elves? A robot elf servant in the Claus castle? Antler toupees? Snowmen on hover-boards? Talking snowmen, at that? How do you put a living snowman back together after they've, well, been powderized by a crash on said hover-board? All this and more, oh, so much more, while April is entertaining Claire, a friend from Oregon who arrives disbelieving. Can you blame her? At least she likes the cold. She also makes a great ice cream.
The mystery starts with a missing man, er, elf, Blinky. He's a bit, well, odd. An eccentric genius, let's say, and has had a habit of going off alone at times. This time, however, he has a girlfriend, Juniper. At least she thinks she's his girlfriend. She hasn't heard from him and is worried. April isn't so sure but wants to support Juniper, even when Juniper is arrested for killing a long time friend with a crush on her. If you're going to be arrested, however, I must admit that Santaland sounds like the best place to be arrested and spend your time in jail.
I don't want to give away any more of the plot or the delight that is Santaland, so won't detail the plot further. Let's just say, Santaland is both everything we ever imagined the North Pole to be like and nothing like our dreams. The reindeer are competitive, we've all heard of those reindeer games, but resent the gradual intrusion of technology into their world. Heck, so do many of the residents. The reindeer aren't the only ones who might lose their jobs. April's experiences with the robot maid are a perfect illustration of what can go wrong, not to mention that the sedentary snowmen are hardly cut out for nimbly guiding hover-boards. That said, even 12 year-old Christopher Claus, who will take over as Santa when he is 21, wants a robot for Christmas. Nick is sort of a Santa Regent, so to speak.
Is the murder related to the encroachment of technology into Santaland? Are the competitive reindeer causing the problems? What would Christmas be like without reindeer? Will Nick, er, Santa be able to soothe nerves and bring all the factions together in time for Christmas Eve? Even Pamela, the usually serene grand dame elder Mrs. Claus, dumps food over someone's head. Whoa.
They've called in detective Jake Frost to help. Although this is my first read of this series, it's obvious he's known to both Nick and April and, oh, my, visiting Claire is entranced on first sight. Will April be able to solve the murder, attend all the ceremonial festivities, soothe her reindeer friends, keep her red suited husband safe, and referee Claire's attraction to Jake, not to mention the fireworks display that sounds a bit, well, overboard? You're just going to have to read the book. Set aside your rational self, buy into the fantasy, and enjoy a great mystery with some of the quirkiest characters you can imagine. Fun!
Thank you, thank you, #NetGalley and #KensingtonBooks for taking me away on a fun, imaginary trip to Santaland. Murder aside, I want to go back! Thanks for introducing me to this series.
September 28, 2022
I really have come to like April (aka Mrs. Claus); she is strong-willed, compassionate, and a loyal friend. What more could you want from a character or a real-life person? The newest addition in the “A Mrs. Clause Mystery” series is Mrs. Claus and the Evil Elves. This story is a head-scratcher in a good way. With evil elves, drones, and those who are wrapped up in themselves to extremes, this story will keep you jumping.
April’s best friend, Claire, is visiting Santaland for the first time and is stunned by everything. No more so than the fact that when April said Nick, her husband, was Santa, she actually meant the real Santa! But Santaland is just like everywhere else, almost. It has good and bad people, crazy inventors of drive-bombing drones that look like maniacal reindeer, and relationships that just don’t work out. But Claire never thought it would also have murder issues.
Just when no one thought things could get any crazier during the build-up to Christmas, someone decides to ruin the ice-sculpture contest and then kill an elf and put the blame on April’s friend Juniper. Juniper is more concerned about her new boyfriend, who has gone missing and is the inventor of the drone reindeer that has caused the real-life reindeer to go on strike just before the holidays. Unfortunately for her, Juniper is about the only suspect the police are looking at, and it is up to April to clear her name before Christmas.
Suspects come out of the woodwork while April investigates. She uncovers evidence and spies on potential killers, sometimes with Claire’s help and sometimes alone. The motive for the killing doesn’t make sense; not even the drones can be blamed, so why would someone kill what appears to be an innocent elf? It doesn’t take long for April to discover a secret or two and get herself in trouble. The killer takes notice, and April is on a direct path to destruction.
The motive for murder is one as old as time, but murder in Santaland is rare, making everyone jumpy. I found this story intriguing and filled with characters and situations that were believable and made me happy. Between crazy inventors, drones, a bleak future of mechanical reindeer and elves, an avalanche that shouldn’t have happened, and April still the same accident-prone person she has always been, readers will delight in this story and wish Christmas was already here. Mrs. Claus and the Evil Elves is a fun holiday must-read!
April’s best friend, Claire, is visiting Santaland for the first time and is stunned by everything. No more so than the fact that when April said Nick, her husband, was Santa, she actually meant the real Santa! But Santaland is just like everywhere else, almost. It has good and bad people, crazy inventors of drive-bombing drones that look like maniacal reindeer, and relationships that just don’t work out. But Claire never thought it would also have murder issues.
Just when no one thought things could get any crazier during the build-up to Christmas, someone decides to ruin the ice-sculpture contest and then kill an elf and put the blame on April’s friend Juniper. Juniper is more concerned about her new boyfriend, who has gone missing and is the inventor of the drone reindeer that has caused the real-life reindeer to go on strike just before the holidays. Unfortunately for her, Juniper is about the only suspect the police are looking at, and it is up to April to clear her name before Christmas.
Suspects come out of the woodwork while April investigates. She uncovers evidence and spies on potential killers, sometimes with Claire’s help and sometimes alone. The motive for the killing doesn’t make sense; not even the drones can be blamed, so why would someone kill what appears to be an innocent elf? It doesn’t take long for April to discover a secret or two and get herself in trouble. The killer takes notice, and April is on a direct path to destruction.
The motive for murder is one as old as time, but murder in Santaland is rare, making everyone jumpy. I found this story intriguing and filled with characters and situations that were believable and made me happy. Between crazy inventors, drones, a bleak future of mechanical reindeer and elves, an avalanche that shouldn’t have happened, and April still the same accident-prone person she has always been, readers will delight in this story and wish Christmas was already here. Mrs. Claus and the Evil Elves is a fun holiday must-read!
November 7, 2022
Who knew Mrs. Claus was an awesome holiday sleuth in a world full of talking reindeer, snow-maneuvering snowmen, and PI snow monsters in Santaland?
I didn't until I read Mrs. Claus and the Evil Elves by Liz Ireland. Even though the plot is about a murder mystery, Liz Ireland has crafted the plot to be adventurous, holiday spirited, and light-hearted. It's just the cutest!
Instead of leaving Yelp Reviews on Santaland, you leave a Yelf Review. 🤣🤣 Soooooo cute!
Thank you to Kensington Books for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I didn't until I read Mrs. Claus and the Evil Elves by Liz Ireland. Even though the plot is about a murder mystery, Liz Ireland has crafted the plot to be adventurous, holiday spirited, and light-hearted. It's just the cutest!
Instead of leaving Yelp Reviews on Santaland, you leave a Yelf Review. 🤣🤣 Soooooo cute!
Thank you to Kensington Books for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
May 21, 2022
MRS. CLAUS AND THE EVIL ELVES, the third book in the Mrs. Claus mystery series by Liz Ireland, is a magical cozy mystery that’s a treat for the senses! The author’s attention to world-building details brings Santaland to life and I couldn’t help but be filled with a magical sense of wonder at all it has to offer, including the marvelous characters. Protagonist April Claus and her husband, Santa, are beyond busy with all the festivities and preparations during the last week before Christmas. On top of that, April’s best human friend is visiting from Oregon, and the reindeer have gone on strike. Written with plenty of humor and zany antics thrown in, the reader, at first, almost forgets that this is a murder mystery. But as the plot thickens, first with a missing inventor elf and then a murder, Ms. Ireland writes a well-paced mystery that held my attention throughout the entire book. She’s proven, once again, why this has become one of my favorite series!
I was provided with an advance copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I was provided with an advance copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
May 31, 2022
I'm really not sure how I feel about this series.
The characters are odd, but kind of fun.
Some parts of the book were good, and others left me confused.
The characters are odd, but kind of fun.
Some parts of the book were good, and others left me confused.
January 21, 2024
April Claus is so excited to get an early Christmas present. Her best friend, Claire, is visiting her from Oregon. April hopes to show off her adopted home, but the first event they attended ended with a dead body. When one of her friends comes under suspension, April has to jump into the investigation even if it means she could make herself a target.
This is a fun Christmas Cozy Mystery. The characters are entertaining. The mystery kept me guessing with the twists and turns and well-place red herrings. There was plenty of suspense in the life-or-death situations that which April and her friends found themselves. This is a treat for fans of Christmas cozies and fans of the series.
All thoughts and opinions are my own; in no way has anyone influenced my opinion.
This is a fun Christmas Cozy Mystery. The characters are entertaining. The mystery kept me guessing with the twists and turns and well-place red herrings. There was plenty of suspense in the life-or-death situations that which April and her friends found themselves. This is a treat for fans of Christmas cozies and fans of the series.
All thoughts and opinions are my own; in no way has anyone influenced my opinion.
May 31, 2022
This book is a delightful escape into a world of candy canes, reindeer, elves, and Christmassy crime. Tired of living a lie, April Claus invites her best pal up to Santaland for a holiday. Innocent Claire is at first unbelieving, then baffled, then enjoying the opportunities to shop and bake with the elder Mrs. Claus. Meanwhile, Santa’s preoccupied with a looming reindeer strike and some elves are embracing modern electronic toys at an alarming rate.
When Santaland is hit by sabotage and other chicanery, terrorizing everyone from the mayor to the usually slow-moving snowmen, April dives into investigating with her customary zeal to protect the place—and the man—she’s come to love even more than her old life in Oregon.
I enjoyed the previous book, Mrs. Claus and the Halloween Homicide. This one’s even better. The author's visual imagery elicits giggles and sometimes guffaws. The Christmas-theme trappings are delightful. The elves are characters familiar from any small-town (!) mystery: shop owners and bakers, manufacturers and officious public servants. The plot glides along like a well-steered sleigh from first crime to final confrontation, making it easy to relax into the charm and zaniness while trying to spot the clues and smell the red herrings amid the candy canes.
Highly recommended.
#Netgalley #MrsClausMystery #Elves #Christmas #Mystery #cosy #CrimeFiction #reindeer #NorthPole #Santa
When Santaland is hit by sabotage and other chicanery, terrorizing everyone from the mayor to the usually slow-moving snowmen, April dives into investigating with her customary zeal to protect the place—and the man—she’s come to love even more than her old life in Oregon.
I enjoyed the previous book, Mrs. Claus and the Halloween Homicide. This one’s even better. The author's visual imagery elicits giggles and sometimes guffaws. The Christmas-theme trappings are delightful. The elves are characters familiar from any small-town (!) mystery: shop owners and bakers, manufacturers and officious public servants. The plot glides along like a well-steered sleigh from first crime to final confrontation, making it easy to relax into the charm and zaniness while trying to spot the clues and smell the red herrings amid the candy canes.
Highly recommended.
#Netgalley #MrsClausMystery #Elves #Christmas #Mystery #cosy #CrimeFiction #reindeer #NorthPole #Santa
October 10, 2022
This is the third instalment in Liz Ireland's Mrs Claus mystery series. The reader soon meets the star of the show, April Claus, who runs a B&B in Oregon. In this novel, April's friend, Claire, is visiting from Oregon and she is thrilled. Married to Nick, April discovers that besides showing Claire the town's delights, she has a lot to juggle. the reindeer are on strike and someone is frightening people with drone-deer towing banners with threatening messages. Then an elf is murdered and another friend of April's, Juniper is in the frame...
I thought this was a highly entertaining, really solid continuation of the series. I reconfirmed my enjoyment of Liz Ireland's admirable characterisation of April who, rather unsurprisingly given what she contends with, is a little scatterbrained. April steps in to do some investigating aiding Detective Jake Frost.
I was totally engaged in this magical tale for its entirety. With no let-up in the fast-paced plot, the author masterfully interwove intoxicating descriptions of the setting. This was so expertly done that I could readily imagine and sense all that protagonist April did, completely bringing the setting to life. There was Christmassy chaos and shenanigans all around with oodles of humour, puns and wit. Liz Ireland's writing once again captured my complete attention and I didn't put this one down. The book was such a fun read and all in all, Mrs. Claus and the Evil Elves is a top-notch novel. I will certainly be returning to see what April is getting herself into next! Very highly recommended.
I received a complimentary copy of this novel at my request from Kensington Books via NetGalley. This review is my own unbiased opinion.
I thought this was a highly entertaining, really solid continuation of the series. I reconfirmed my enjoyment of Liz Ireland's admirable characterisation of April who, rather unsurprisingly given what she contends with, is a little scatterbrained. April steps in to do some investigating aiding Detective Jake Frost.
I was totally engaged in this magical tale for its entirety. With no let-up in the fast-paced plot, the author masterfully interwove intoxicating descriptions of the setting. This was so expertly done that I could readily imagine and sense all that protagonist April did, completely bringing the setting to life. There was Christmassy chaos and shenanigans all around with oodles of humour, puns and wit. Liz Ireland's writing once again captured my complete attention and I didn't put this one down. The book was such a fun read and all in all, Mrs. Claus and the Evil Elves is a top-notch novel. I will certainly be returning to see what April is getting herself into next! Very highly recommended.
I received a complimentary copy of this novel at my request from Kensington Books via NetGalley. This review is my own unbiased opinion.
December 29, 2022
Somehow I managed to skip reading book 2 (which I own, and I guess have meant to read the past two Halloweens... but I didn't), but that didn't stop me from enjoying the latest adventures of April Claus. This time she's brought her best friend, Clare, along with her, so we get a fresh introduction to Santaland through that. The reindeer are on strike because of a new invention- drone reindeer. Worried this spells the end of their livelihood, they aren't even playing their reindeer games. But when a drone ruins an prize winning reindeer ice sculpture, soon mystery, murder, and mayhem are ahoof... er. afoot. Lots of old favorites return to help with the mystery, including Jack Frost! Despite being a book about Santaland and the days leading up to Christmas Eve, this actually makes for a great winter read- so curl up with some hot cocoa (and some snacks, because April is a sugar fiend) and prepare for a fun and cozy read!
December 26, 2024
Enjoyable Christmas cozy. I'm more interested in the setting then the actual mysteries. It was fun seeing an outsider taking it all in for the first time.
January 2, 2025
This book was hilarious and ridiculous and creative and I loved it! This series gets better and better and I love these characters and Christmastown. I was shocked by all the twists and loved the ending!
September 26, 2022
Happy Publication Week to Mrs. Claus and the Evil Elves, the third book in the Mrs. Claus series by Liz Ireland. Thank you to @kensingtonbooks and @netgalley for letting me read an eARC.
This series just keeps getting better and better. The second book in the series was one of my favorite cozy reads of 2021, and now this book will be one of my favorite cozies of 2022!
I’m realizing that I like cozy mysteries that are action-packed to the point of being almost madcap. Cozy mysteries require us to suspend disbelief, so why not have fun with it? And Liz Ireland certainly has fun. She creates an irresistible Christmasy ambiance in her depiction of Santaland. The world comes to life vividly with holiday cheer, colorful characters, and lots of delicious-sounding sweets.
But things aren’t always holly-jolly in the North Pole! April is still adjusting to her life in her second Christmas as Mrs. Claus while also hosting her friend Claire for the holiday season. The plot starts with a bang and is non-stop action to the very end. The murder doesn’t happen until 40% in, but I didn’t even care. I was distracted by ice sculpture decapitations, reindeer strikes, dessert fights, and snowman traffic accidents.
This book was so fun to read. I love seeing the author’s creativity; she continues to find new North Pole experiences to explore. The humor and high stakes kept me turning pages, and I enjoyed every moment!
This series just keeps getting better and better. The second book in the series was one of my favorite cozy reads of 2021, and now this book will be one of my favorite cozies of 2022!
I’m realizing that I like cozy mysteries that are action-packed to the point of being almost madcap. Cozy mysteries require us to suspend disbelief, so why not have fun with it? And Liz Ireland certainly has fun. She creates an irresistible Christmasy ambiance in her depiction of Santaland. The world comes to life vividly with holiday cheer, colorful characters, and lots of delicious-sounding sweets.
But things aren’t always holly-jolly in the North Pole! April is still adjusting to her life in her second Christmas as Mrs. Claus while also hosting her friend Claire for the holiday season. The plot starts with a bang and is non-stop action to the very end. The murder doesn’t happen until 40% in, but I didn’t even care. I was distracted by ice sculpture decapitations, reindeer strikes, dessert fights, and snowman traffic accidents.
This book was so fun to read. I love seeing the author’s creativity; she continues to find new North Pole experiences to explore. The humor and high stakes kept me turning pages, and I enjoyed every moment!
September 6, 2022
This is the third installment in the Mrs. Claus Mystery series. It is a standalone story. I have enjoyed the two Mrs. Claus books I have read. I like the characters, the theme, and the imagination. We are dealing with automation in this story and should it replace beings in doing all chores or just mundane/repetitive tasks?
So, who caused the drone to knock off Blitzen’s head on the winning ice sculpture? And who killed Virgil. Good questions that April and Claire investigate.
There were plenty of suspects and abundant twists, turns and mis-directions to keep the reader guessing. I enjoyed the antics. The pace was just right, I could not turn the pages fast enough.
I was so glad to see Quasar come into his own. He isn’t as simple as people make him out to be.
I am looking forward to the next installment.
I was given an advanced readers’ copy by Netgalley and am not required to leave a positive review. I chose to do so.
So, who caused the drone to knock off Blitzen’s head on the winning ice sculpture? And who killed Virgil. Good questions that April and Claire investigate.
There were plenty of suspects and abundant twists, turns and mis-directions to keep the reader guessing. I enjoyed the antics. The pace was just right, I could not turn the pages fast enough.
I was so glad to see Quasar come into his own. He isn’t as simple as people make him out to be.
I am looking forward to the next installment.
I was given an advanced readers’ copy by Netgalley and am not required to leave a positive review. I chose to do so.
December 17, 2022
I really enjoy these Santaland murder mysteries. I seriously cannot get enough of them. They’re the perfect cozy holiday read to put me in the festive mood. This is the third in the series, and they just keep getting more exciting! You can certainly read this as a standalone if you didn’t read the others in the series. The entire Santaland atmosphere and holiday spirit is what I love the most. The characters all have fun and cute names and personalities. The world building is charming and makes you really feel like you’re there. Of course, the plot was full of thrills and fun twists. I definitely didn’t see the ending coming, but I loved it! I can’t wait to see what April is up to next.
November 25, 2023
Mrs. Claus's friend from Oregon is visiting Santaland but her visit is off to a wild start. Reindeer are on strike. Snowmen are riding around on dangerous contraptions and there is a murder. Even worse, Juniper is accused of committing the deed.
I love seeing the continued development of April's relationship with the dowager Mrs. Claus. There is a particularly enjoyable scene involving the two. Spending time at the constabulary is always fun and there's more of that.
The mystery is good because there is more to it than just a simple murder. The showdown with the killer and events leading up to it is action packed. I love how all the characters got involved. We also get to see a little bit more about what happens on Christmas Eve. I like the ending events because it promises wacky things ahead.
I love seeing the continued development of April's relationship with the dowager Mrs. Claus. There is a particularly enjoyable scene involving the two. Spending time at the constabulary is always fun and there's more of that.
The mystery is good because there is more to it than just a simple murder. The showdown with the killer and events leading up to it is action packed. I love how all the characters got involved. We also get to see a little bit more about what happens on Christmas Eve. I like the ending events because it promises wacky things ahead.
September 5, 2024
"Mrs. Claus and the Evil Elves (Mrs. Claus Mystery #3)" by Liz Ireland has April's friend, Claire, from Oregon visiting the North Pole just in time for Christmas. Instead of showing her all the sights, April is having Claire tag along on an investigation over a rouge drone deer, elf death and elfnapping. Good thing they're friends and Claire doesn't seem to mind.
I do have to say, the tittle gives a bit away. Clearly elves are going to be involved somehow. I personally thought it was going to be a different elf in particular. However, it was an interesting ending and I'm betting we get to see more of Claire in future books.
I do have to say, the tittle gives a bit away. Clearly elves are going to be involved somehow. I personally thought it was going to be a different elf in particular. However, it was an interesting ending and I'm betting we get to see more of Claire in future books.
December 22, 2023
In the prior two books, we have heard about Claire, April's best friends. In the third installment of the Mrs. Claus series, we finally get to meet Claire as she has come to Santaland for two weeks for the holidays. But, nothing can be low-key or easy. After the destruction of the winning ice sculpture, April is beginning to see some things that are suspicious, so she and Claire set out to get to the bottom of it. The conspiracy they find is much more than they expected...
August 28, 2022
The third installment of this funny and fanciful cozy mystery series is out September 27th and I was lucky enough to get an ARC to read and share my thoughts with ya'll!
If you are someone who listens to Christmas music by the time Halloween rolls around, this book is for you. In fact, if you haven't already started this series and you are a Christmas fan, you are slacking and need to add this series to your list ASAP!
Because this is an ARC, they prefer that I don't share text from the book as it might change before publication, so you will just have to take my word that this book is filled with some funny lines. There are lots of good jokes to be made in Santaland. In this book, April's best friend from down south comes up for Christmas. I was glad that April had a best friend sidekick for this book, and hopefully, she will be back for future installments. We also got to see more interaction between April and Nick (aka Santa) in this book, it was enjoyable to read their scenes as they get more used to their unique married life.
If you want a fun, humorous cozy mystery with all those Christmas vibes, this is the series to read, on a cozy afternoon, with a cup of cocoa in your hand! 4 stars!
If you are someone who listens to Christmas music by the time Halloween rolls around, this book is for you. In fact, if you haven't already started this series and you are a Christmas fan, you are slacking and need to add this series to your list ASAP!
Because this is an ARC, they prefer that I don't share text from the book as it might change before publication, so you will just have to take my word that this book is filled with some funny lines. There are lots of good jokes to be made in Santaland. In this book, April's best friend from down south comes up for Christmas. I was glad that April had a best friend sidekick for this book, and hopefully, she will be back for future installments. We also got to see more interaction between April and Nick (aka Santa) in this book, it was enjoyable to read their scenes as they get more used to their unique married life.
If you want a fun, humorous cozy mystery with all those Christmas vibes, this is the series to read, on a cozy afternoon, with a cup of cocoa in your hand! 4 stars!
November 30, 2024
The thing I like the most in this series is the setting. It’s fun. And the stories are just easy dumb fun 🙂
This one actually choked me up at one point.
Squeaky clean.
This one actually choked me up at one point.
Squeaky clean.
November 23, 2022
Such a fun series! Perfect holiday choice for readers who want a Christmas book but don’t want a sugary sweet holiday romance. The series is set in Santaland. Full of elves, talking reindeer, holiday events and plenty of drama. I do think you could start with this book and not be lost. Certainly best to start at the beginning, but the series isn’t too complicated to start with book 3. The reindeer are on strike and might not fly Santa’s sleigh on Christmas Eve. Once the inventor of the drone deer goes missing, April steps in to solve the case. Who knew that reindeer could be sassy? Loved the details about the family lines of reindeer. I.e the Rudolph line has red noses and loves to be helpful. Fast read full of Christmas goodness.
August 27, 2022
[I received a free electronic review copy of this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.]
4 stars = Great! Might re-read.
This was a fun addition to the series. I enjoyed the ongoing Christmas fun in the setting and timing of the story. Adding in the best friend from "our" world was a great way to bring some fresh eyes to the world. The mystery was fascinating and kept me guessing. I love that this cozy mystery feels "different" because of the setting and the Claus family. This is a must-read series for me.
4 stars = Great! Might re-read.
This was a fun addition to the series. I enjoyed the ongoing Christmas fun in the setting and timing of the story. Adding in the best friend from "our" world was a great way to bring some fresh eyes to the world. The mystery was fascinating and kept me guessing. I love that this cozy mystery feels "different" because of the setting and the Claus family. This is a must-read series for me.
December 17, 2022
I like the idea of Santa and Santaland being real. I like the characters and the mystery kept me guessing. I can't wait to see what happens with the characters.
Thank you to the author, publisher, and NetGalley for my eARC in exchange for an honest.
Thank you to the author, publisher, and NetGalley for my eARC in exchange for an honest.
May 14, 2022
I received an ARC of, Mrs. Claus and the Evil Elves, by Liz Ireland. Nothing says Christmas then Santa's elves, but these elves are different, very different. Such an enchanting and weird holiday mystery.
May 11, 2022
This ARC was provided to me via Kindle, Kensington Books and by #NetGalley. Opinions expressed are completely my own.
Fun cozy mystery, quirky enough to be entertaining.
Fun cozy mystery, quirky enough to be entertaining.
October 19, 2022
I did not want it to end....I loved hanging out with April Claus in Santaland in the third book in the Mrs. Claus Mystery series by Liz Ireland....and you won't want to either !!!
In Mrs. Claus and the Evil Elves April's best friend from her hometown of Cloudberry Bay, Oregon, Claire is visiting April and her husband Nick for the Christmas holiday and Claire cannot believe her eyes and ears !! She is visiting SANTA CLAUS and MRS. CLAUS and Mrs. Claus is her best friend !!! Hard to wrap your mind around that.
Unfortunately while April wants everything to go smoothly for Claire's visit, it is everything but smooth. The reindeer are on strike and ....wait, let me say that again.....The reindeer are on strike and with Christmas right around the corner, this could be a huge problem come Christmas Eve. Also another of April's good friends, Juniper Greenleaf, who is an elf claims her new boyfriend, Blinky, is missing when he doesn't show up to a concert they are playing. Blinky insisted that he would be there and when he doesn't show, they go to his place of business, Brightlow Brothers Enterprises. Brightlow Brothers Enterprises is a electronics business that he runs with his brother Dabbs. But Dabbs insists that Blinky is fine and is off sight in one of his creative moods.
Because Juniper insists that something is wrong April decides to try to find out what is going on.....unfortunately before they can locate Blinky, Virgil, an elf working for the brothers is found murdered in his house and the murder weapon belongs to Juniper. So while Juniper is arrested and held in the constabulary and Constable Crinkles is focused on Juniper as the killer, April calls her friend private investigator Jake Frost to assist her in looking for the real murderer !!
Even though there is a missing elf, a murdered elf, and an elf arrested, you will still love Santaland and everything else there. No place is perfect but if you have to have murder and unpleasant things, this is where you want to be.....a dessert buffet party, snowmen that talk, elves everywhere in full on elf-wear, streets like Wonderland Lane and Wishful Lane to businesses like We Three Bean coffeehouse and Tinkertown Arena and lastly elves named Butterbean, Velvet and Nippy...plus all the reindeer.
Readers will fall in love with this story and the previous two books in this magical series. You will get lost in the story and may even find yourself believing in Santa Claus ....or at least wishing for him. I cannot stress it enough to grab your copy and head to Castle Kringle and Santaland......
In Mrs. Claus and the Evil Elves April's best friend from her hometown of Cloudberry Bay, Oregon, Claire is visiting April and her husband Nick for the Christmas holiday and Claire cannot believe her eyes and ears !! She is visiting SANTA CLAUS and MRS. CLAUS and Mrs. Claus is her best friend !!! Hard to wrap your mind around that.
Unfortunately while April wants everything to go smoothly for Claire's visit, it is everything but smooth. The reindeer are on strike and ....wait, let me say that again.....The reindeer are on strike and with Christmas right around the corner, this could be a huge problem come Christmas Eve. Also another of April's good friends, Juniper Greenleaf, who is an elf claims her new boyfriend, Blinky, is missing when he doesn't show up to a concert they are playing. Blinky insisted that he would be there and when he doesn't show, they go to his place of business, Brightlow Brothers Enterprises. Brightlow Brothers Enterprises is a electronics business that he runs with his brother Dabbs. But Dabbs insists that Blinky is fine and is off sight in one of his creative moods.
Because Juniper insists that something is wrong April decides to try to find out what is going on.....unfortunately before they can locate Blinky, Virgil, an elf working for the brothers is found murdered in his house and the murder weapon belongs to Juniper. So while Juniper is arrested and held in the constabulary and Constable Crinkles is focused on Juniper as the killer, April calls her friend private investigator Jake Frost to assist her in looking for the real murderer !!
Even though there is a missing elf, a murdered elf, and an elf arrested, you will still love Santaland and everything else there. No place is perfect but if you have to have murder and unpleasant things, this is where you want to be.....a dessert buffet party, snowmen that talk, elves everywhere in full on elf-wear, streets like Wonderland Lane and Wishful Lane to businesses like We Three Bean coffeehouse and Tinkertown Arena and lastly elves named Butterbean, Velvet and Nippy...plus all the reindeer.
Readers will fall in love with this story and the previous two books in this magical series. You will get lost in the story and may even find yourself believing in Santa Claus ....or at least wishing for him. I cannot stress it enough to grab your copy and head to Castle Kringle and Santaland......
September 20, 2022
April Claus can't catch a break. Reindeer on strike. Drones disrupting an ice sculpture contest. A missing elf. And to top it off, a ghastly murder. Could things get any worse? Thankfully, April has her close friend Claire visiting to help her face each challenge along with a certain Jake Frost that may have caught her friend's eye.
Ireland strikes again with another charming win! April has her hands full dealing with all the obstacles, responsibilities, and weight that comes with being THE Mrs. Claus. First, Santaland slays shakes up her cheery little world then a Halloween homicide disrupts April's attempts at bringing a new holiday to the North Pole. Now, she's facing evil elves. Being the third book in a series it brings, even more, laughs, originality, mystery, and festive themes. The world of Santa and his elves will never be the same after taking a trip to Ireland's original take with a joyful world filled to the brim with delightful nods from the themed elf names (Juniper Greenleaf; Bella Sparkletree) to the unique inventions (selfy; "self" "elf").
Ireland's writing is a true delight with catchy and festive phrases such as "pop-eyed expression," "reindeer-in-the-headlights panic," and "puffin-hearted weaklings." She has a truly original way of writing this story that is humorous, clever, and entirely Christmas-themed while feeling like the type of story that can be read at any time of the year. The way the North Pole is set up creates an entirely different aesthetic than what you typically think of when you envision Saint Nick and his cheery helpers. The various shops fit into this festive world setting up this permanent Christmas village that feels like a genuine community with heart, friendship, and the occasional acts of mayhem and murder. Despite being the third book, it feels like it's the first time as you get to see it for the first time through Claire's eyes as she's taking in her best friend's new life. Highly recommended for anyone that enjoys Christmas, mysteries, humor, and charm.
Favorite Quotes:
"Robots don't get jitters." - Ireland
"Is this Blinky an absentminded inventor, a heartless Lothario, and a reindeer statue destroyer, - or an elfnapping victim?" - Ireland
Ireland strikes again with another charming win! April has her hands full dealing with all the obstacles, responsibilities, and weight that comes with being THE Mrs. Claus. First, Santaland slays shakes up her cheery little world then a Halloween homicide disrupts April's attempts at bringing a new holiday to the North Pole. Now, she's facing evil elves. Being the third book in a series it brings, even more, laughs, originality, mystery, and festive themes. The world of Santa and his elves will never be the same after taking a trip to Ireland's original take with a joyful world filled to the brim with delightful nods from the themed elf names (Juniper Greenleaf; Bella Sparkletree) to the unique inventions (selfy; "self" "elf").
Ireland's writing is a true delight with catchy and festive phrases such as "pop-eyed expression," "reindeer-in-the-headlights panic," and "puffin-hearted weaklings." She has a truly original way of writing this story that is humorous, clever, and entirely Christmas-themed while feeling like the type of story that can be read at any time of the year. The way the North Pole is set up creates an entirely different aesthetic than what you typically think of when you envision Saint Nick and his cheery helpers. The various shops fit into this festive world setting up this permanent Christmas village that feels like a genuine community with heart, friendship, and the occasional acts of mayhem and murder. Despite being the third book, it feels like it's the first time as you get to see it for the first time through Claire's eyes as she's taking in her best friend's new life. Highly recommended for anyone that enjoys Christmas, mysteries, humor, and charm.
Favorite Quotes:
"Robots don't get jitters." - Ireland
"Is this Blinky an absentminded inventor, a heartless Lothario, and a reindeer statue destroyer, - or an elfnapping victim?" - Ireland
June 20, 2022
FANTASY, MAYHEM, MURDER AND DISASTER!
This is the third Jill Ireland Mrs. Claus Mystery, and I must say it is the best of the three. I can’t wait for a fourth installment!
Originally, I started to read the first book with a lot of anticipation, but found it a bit slow to engage me at first, because it was mixing the cozy mystery genre with the whole Santa and the North Pole story we all know. After I was able to buy into this fantasy I found the characters and the plot of the book to be exceptionally well thought of and written beautifully…so I was hooked. The second book was very good also, so I obtained an advance copy of the third book: “MRS. CLAUS AND THE EVIL ELVES”.
When you read this book, let me tell you to please fasten your seatbelt, because the rollercoaster ride starts right from the beginning! I was absolutely fascinated by all the old and new characters and situation that Ms. Ireland so brilliantly mixed together in such a believable way that every time I took a reading break I was anxious to get back into Santaland and the intrigues of the minute. There are an incredible number of amazing stories and plots weaving through the book, and they all finally came together for a most fulfilling end. I insist that all my cozy authors resolve all issues, and Ms. Ireland did just that…and she had so many ends to tie together. Superb! I marveled at the ingenious imagination that created so many original names related to Christmas, and the descriptions are done in such a way that immersed you deeper into the story, and were not just ‘filler’. One comment my wife made as I read the book out loud was that “if I had to be in jail, I would like to be in Santaland Jail.” Have some Kleenex handy, because you will become so attached to the story that at the end there surely be some emotional tears coming out from joy and laughter. Thank you, Jill Ireland for sharing your writing skills with us eager readers. Merry Christmas!
This is the third Jill Ireland Mrs. Claus Mystery, and I must say it is the best of the three. I can’t wait for a fourth installment!
Originally, I started to read the first book with a lot of anticipation, but found it a bit slow to engage me at first, because it was mixing the cozy mystery genre with the whole Santa and the North Pole story we all know. After I was able to buy into this fantasy I found the characters and the plot of the book to be exceptionally well thought of and written beautifully…so I was hooked. The second book was very good also, so I obtained an advance copy of the third book: “MRS. CLAUS AND THE EVIL ELVES”.
When you read this book, let me tell you to please fasten your seatbelt, because the rollercoaster ride starts right from the beginning! I was absolutely fascinated by all the old and new characters and situation that Ms. Ireland so brilliantly mixed together in such a believable way that every time I took a reading break I was anxious to get back into Santaland and the intrigues of the minute. There are an incredible number of amazing stories and plots weaving through the book, and they all finally came together for a most fulfilling end. I insist that all my cozy authors resolve all issues, and Ms. Ireland did just that…and she had so many ends to tie together. Superb! I marveled at the ingenious imagination that created so many original names related to Christmas, and the descriptions are done in such a way that immersed you deeper into the story, and were not just ‘filler’. One comment my wife made as I read the book out loud was that “if I had to be in jail, I would like to be in Santaland Jail.” Have some Kleenex handy, because you will become so attached to the story that at the end there surely be some emotional tears coming out from joy and laughter. Thank you, Jill Ireland for sharing your writing skills with us eager readers. Merry Christmas!
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