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Frost & Crowe Mystery #2
Wrapped up in Christmas
Princess Jayne Frost and Prince Consort Sinclair Crowe have been called back to Nocturne Falls for Christmas so that Jayne can help out at the short-staffed Santa’s Workshop.
Being back means seeing some old friends, but also finding new trouble that Jayne just can’t stop thinking about. Are the random break-ins really someone trying to ruin Christmas? Because as Santa Claus’s niece, that feels personal to her.
But when the real reason for the break-ins gets unwrapped, Jayne decides to do everything in her power to put an end to the problem.
Too bad it might also mean the end of her.
Being back means seeing some old friends, but also finding new trouble that Jayne just can’t stop thinking about. Are the random break-ins really someone trying to ruin Christmas? Because as Santa Claus’s niece, that feels personal to her.
But when the real reason for the break-ins gets unwrapped, Jayne decides to do everything in her power to put an end to the problem.
Too bad it might also mean the end of her.
262 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 21, 2022
119 people are currently reading
305 people want to read
About the author
Kristen Painter
179 books3,410 followersKristen Painter likes to balance her obsessions with shoes and cats by making the lives of her characters miserable and surprising her readers with interesting twists. She currently writes award-winning paranormal romance, paranormal women's fiction, and cozy mysteries. The former college English teacher can often be found on twitter @Kristen_Painter, Facebook at www.facebook.com/KristenPainterAuthor where she loves to interact with readers and her blog: http://kristenpainter.com/blog/.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 102 reviews
November 23, 2022
Wrapped Up in Christmas by Kristen Painter
A Frost and Crowe Mystery. Unofficially book 9. Paranormal holiday cozy mystery. Best if at least a few of the Jayne Frost series books are read prior. Alternating chapters between Jayne and Sinclair.
Jayne and Sinclair are in Nocturne Falls with their RV so Jayne can work at the Christmas Shop in town. The new light-up Christmas paper that is selling out as soon it’s delivered seems to be causing thefts around town. Jayne and Sinclair investigate.
I loved the idea of holiday flavored and decorated donuts as gifts for a doctors office, or bookclub, PTA meeting or church groups or even a cookie exchange.
This series makes me hungry. Jayne eats sugar pretty much non stop. She’s a winter elf and the calories don’t impact her. I have to keep reminding myself, “she’s not real”, and that I can’t eat sugar or anything else like she does. I’ll admit to lusting after Mummy’s Diner food though.
A fun mystery with snow, both real and magic created, holiday themed donuts, Christmas lights and talking cats. This series is joyful to read and I look forward to the series continuing.
🎧 2nd reading by audiobook narrated by Hollis McCarthy and B J Harrison on alternating chapters by Jayne and Sinclair. The performance was great, giving emotional content to the dialog. The tension came through clearly. The talking cats funny. It was quite slow to me so I pushed the playback up to 1.5 for a better experience.
A Frost and Crowe Mystery. Unofficially book 9. Paranormal holiday cozy mystery. Best if at least a few of the Jayne Frost series books are read prior. Alternating chapters between Jayne and Sinclair.
Jayne and Sinclair are in Nocturne Falls with their RV so Jayne can work at the Christmas Shop in town. The new light-up Christmas paper that is selling out as soon it’s delivered seems to be causing thefts around town. Jayne and Sinclair investigate.
I loved the idea of holiday flavored and decorated donuts as gifts for a doctors office, or bookclub, PTA meeting or church groups or even a cookie exchange.
This series makes me hungry. Jayne eats sugar pretty much non stop. She’s a winter elf and the calories don’t impact her. I have to keep reminding myself, “she’s not real”, and that I can’t eat sugar or anything else like she does. I’ll admit to lusting after Mummy’s Diner food though.
A fun mystery with snow, both real and magic created, holiday themed donuts, Christmas lights and talking cats. This series is joyful to read and I look forward to the series continuing.
🎧 2nd reading by audiobook narrated by Hollis McCarthy and B J Harrison on alternating chapters by Jayne and Sinclair. The performance was great, giving emotional content to the dialog. The tension came through clearly. The talking cats funny. It was quite slow to me so I pushed the playback up to 1.5 for a better experience.
November 24, 2022
This is a terrific book. I was quickly captivated by Jayne and Sinclair’s return to Nocturne Falls and the ensuing mystery. I couldn’t put the book down because I needed to know what was going to happen next. I hope to see more stories with Jayne and Sinclair in the future.
December 10, 2022
Second in the Frost & Crowe amateur sleuth cozy mystery magical realism series and revolving around the married Jayne Frost and Sinclair Crowe and takes place in Nocturne Falls at Christmas. It's been a year-and-a-half of road trip since Lost in Las Vegas, 1, with bits of back history on their road trip.
My Take
Painter uses third person dual protagonist point-of-view from Jayne's and Sin's perspectives. And I'm just as awed at Sin at Jayne's ability to eat and process sugar. Dang it! That ability is darned useful since Sin gets back into creating flavorful doughnuts.
It's a chance to revisit Nocturne Falls and its cast of characters, although it's not essential that you've read all the previous stories. It does make it more interesting, though. Nocturne Falls continues to develop — now they have an RV park. There is action in the story, but it's mostly about the characters — most are wonderful, some are not. Of course, I always love the conversation from the cats, lol.
Ya gotta love Jayne's ability with snow — we could sure use her in Wisconsin!
There are suspects galore and yet, the true criminals are never suspected. That Gracie does add a bit of spice, although it feels extraneous.
Wow, the refund offer Jayne and her father come up with is a-mazing!
As Jack Frost is married to Klara, I'm not sure why he refers to her as "Aunt Klara".
The pace is reasonable, although Jayne gets too deep into the whole wrapping paper issue. Of course, that is what the story is about.
It's a fun and cozy read.
The Story
It's a weird rash of break-ins in Nocturne Falls. Nothing's being taken but wrapping paper . . .
The Characters
Princess Jayne Frost, daughter and heir to Jack Frost, is married to Sinclair Crowe, a.k.a. Prince Consort Sinclair, a necromancer and doughnut wizard. Jayne's Spider, a black cat, and Sin's Sugar, a white cat, can both talk. "Spider loves Chicken Party." Spider calls Sin "Dadman".
Nocturne Falls
Jerry Quinlan is the manager for the Pumpkin Patch RV Park and Campground; his wife, Sandy, is a nurse. Jerry runs the local grocery store. Gracie Morales, a jaguar shifter, is an old girlfriend of Sin's, and quite aggressive in her approach. Archie Tingle is the retired elf baker who bought Zombie Donuts from Sin. The Dr Prepper doughnut is one of Jayne's favorites. The Hallowed Bean is a revered coffee shop. Delaney Ellingham runs Delaney's Delectables, an over-the-top candy store. The Ellinghams are the vampire family who owns and manages the town. Willa Iscove runs a jewelry shop ( The Gargoyle Gets His Girl , NF 3). Howler's, which is owned by Bridget Merrow — is, yep, a werewolf and Hank's sister. Kira is one of Howler's servers.
Elsie Merriweather, a retired art teacher from Nocturne Falls Middle School, desperately needs help re-wrapping all her presents. Her nephew, Richie Atwood, is a delivery man for International Parcels. Mr (a website developer) and Mrs Dominguez (she works at the Shop-n-Save bakery); and Frank (a veteran on disability) and Myrna Connolly (a quilter); Cujo's owners; and, the Quinlans are also victims.
Buttercup is the second shift manager at Santa's Workshop whose grandmother is sick. Holly, Juniper, Kip, and Rowley, a retired NP tinker ( Miss Frost Braves the Blizzard , JF 5 (NF 8.3)), are employees. They use the shimmer, a winter elf magic, in the shop. Their Christmas Magic paper is a new product with magical effects, if you use the Christmas Magic tape.
Birdie, a werewolf, is the police dispatcher and the chief's aunt. Jack Van Zant is Birdie's boyfriend ("When Birdie Babysat Spider", NF 4.5). Hank Merrow, another werewolf, is the sheriff. Deputies include Sergeant Alex Cruz, who is still dating Roxy St James ( The Shifter Romances the Writer , NF 6), and Remy Lafitte. Santana Morales, Gracie's brother, just joined the police department.
Hank is married to Ivy ( The Werewolf Meets His Match , NF 2), and they have two children: Charlie and Hannah Rose. Marigold Williams, who runs the flower shop, is a witch ( The Detective Wins The Witch , NF 10); Pandora ( The Professor Woos the Witch , NF 4) and Charisma are her sisters. Corette, who runs the bridal shop (and is a witch), is their mother ("The Witch's Halloween Hero", NF 4.1). Customers who have ordered up doughnuts include Mrs Campbell and the Kiwanis Club.
The North Pole (NP)
Jack Frost is the Winter King and King of the NP and Jayne's father. Klara Kringle is Jack's wife, Martha's sister, and Jayne's mother. Kris Kringle, a.k.a. Santa Claus, and his wife, Martha, are Jayne's uncle and aunt. Santa's Bag is a magical bag for shipping anything.
Las Vegas
Sin's parents are Las Vegas royalty with both Anson and Lila romantics — he's an illusionist and she's a new and improved zombie (Lost in Las Vegas, F&C 1). Aunt Zinnia has moved in with the Crowes and has three cats. Wendell the Wonderful, a retired magician, is Aunt Zinnia's boyfriend.
Cooper Sullivan, a summer elf ( Miss Frost Solves a Cold Case , JF 1 (NF 5.6)), and Greyson Garret, a vampire ( The Vampire's Priceless Treasure , NF 11), are previous boyfriends of Jayne's. Crane & Company is the source for the wrapping paper.
The Cover and Title
The cover is dark in color with navy drapes framing a snowy windowsill and deep burgundy walls and floor — that sheepskin rug does help to provide contrast to the blue-haired Jayne and Sin sitting in front of the Christmas tree surrounded by presents. You can almost see Spider scratching at the tree on the left, and the better-behaved Sugar sitting by Sin's hand. At the very top is a colonial blue series info with the title immediately below in white. At the bottom is an info blurb and the author's name, also in white.
The title is that Jayne and Santa's Workshop — and the police — are Wrapped Up in Christmas.
My Take
Painter uses third person dual protagonist point-of-view from Jayne's and Sin's perspectives. And I'm just as awed at Sin at Jayne's ability to eat and process sugar. Dang it! That ability is darned useful since Sin gets back into creating flavorful doughnuts.
It's a chance to revisit Nocturne Falls and its cast of characters, although it's not essential that you've read all the previous stories. It does make it more interesting, though. Nocturne Falls continues to develop — now they have an RV park. There is action in the story, but it's mostly about the characters — most are wonderful, some are not. Of course, I always love the conversation from the cats, lol.
Ya gotta love Jayne's ability with snow — we could sure use her in Wisconsin!
There are suspects galore and yet, the true criminals are never suspected. That Gracie does add a bit of spice, although it feels extraneous.
Wow, the refund offer Jayne and her father come up with is a-mazing!
As Jack Frost is married to Klara, I'm not sure why he refers to her as "Aunt Klara".
The pace is reasonable, although Jayne gets too deep into the whole wrapping paper issue. Of course, that is what the story is about.
It's a fun and cozy read.
The Story
It's a weird rash of break-ins in Nocturne Falls. Nothing's being taken but wrapping paper . . .
The Characters
Princess Jayne Frost, daughter and heir to Jack Frost, is married to Sinclair Crowe, a.k.a. Prince Consort Sinclair, a necromancer and doughnut wizard. Jayne's Spider, a black cat, and Sin's Sugar, a white cat, can both talk. "Spider loves Chicken Party." Spider calls Sin "Dadman".
Nocturne Falls
Jerry Quinlan is the manager for the Pumpkin Patch RV Park and Campground; his wife, Sandy, is a nurse. Jerry runs the local grocery store. Gracie Morales, a jaguar shifter, is an old girlfriend of Sin's, and quite aggressive in her approach. Archie Tingle is the retired elf baker who bought Zombie Donuts from Sin. The Dr Prepper doughnut is one of Jayne's favorites. The Hallowed Bean is a revered coffee shop. Delaney Ellingham runs Delaney's Delectables, an over-the-top candy store. The Ellinghams are the vampire family who owns and manages the town. Willa Iscove runs a jewelry shop ( The Gargoyle Gets His Girl , NF 3). Howler's, which is owned by Bridget Merrow — is, yep, a werewolf and Hank's sister. Kira is one of Howler's servers.
Elsie Merriweather, a retired art teacher from Nocturne Falls Middle School, desperately needs help re-wrapping all her presents. Her nephew, Richie Atwood, is a delivery man for International Parcels. Mr (a website developer) and Mrs Dominguez (she works at the Shop-n-Save bakery); and Frank (a veteran on disability) and Myrna Connolly (a quilter); Cujo's owners; and, the Quinlans are also victims.
Buttercup is the second shift manager at Santa's Workshop whose grandmother is sick. Holly, Juniper, Kip, and Rowley, a retired NP tinker ( Miss Frost Braves the Blizzard , JF 5 (NF 8.3)), are employees. They use the shimmer, a winter elf magic, in the shop. Their Christmas Magic paper is a new product with magical effects, if you use the Christmas Magic tape.
Birdie, a werewolf, is the police dispatcher and the chief's aunt. Jack Van Zant is Birdie's boyfriend ("When Birdie Babysat Spider", NF 4.5). Hank Merrow, another werewolf, is the sheriff. Deputies include Sergeant Alex Cruz, who is still dating Roxy St James ( The Shifter Romances the Writer , NF 6), and Remy Lafitte. Santana Morales, Gracie's brother, just joined the police department.
Hank is married to Ivy ( The Werewolf Meets His Match , NF 2), and they have two children: Charlie and Hannah Rose. Marigold Williams, who runs the flower shop, is a witch ( The Detective Wins The Witch , NF 10); Pandora ( The Professor Woos the Witch , NF 4) and Charisma are her sisters. Corette, who runs the bridal shop (and is a witch), is their mother ("The Witch's Halloween Hero", NF 4.1). Customers who have ordered up doughnuts include Mrs Campbell and the Kiwanis Club.
The North Pole (NP)
Jack Frost is the Winter King and King of the NP and Jayne's father. Klara Kringle is Jack's wife, Martha's sister, and Jayne's mother. Kris Kringle, a.k.a. Santa Claus, and his wife, Martha, are Jayne's uncle and aunt. Santa's Bag is a magical bag for shipping anything.
Las Vegas
Sin's parents are Las Vegas royalty with both Anson and Lila romantics — he's an illusionist and she's a new and improved zombie (Lost in Las Vegas, F&C 1). Aunt Zinnia has moved in with the Crowes and has three cats. Wendell the Wonderful, a retired magician, is Aunt Zinnia's boyfriend.
Cooper Sullivan, a summer elf ( Miss Frost Solves a Cold Case , JF 1 (NF 5.6)), and Greyson Garret, a vampire ( The Vampire's Priceless Treasure , NF 11), are previous boyfriends of Jayne's. Crane & Company is the source for the wrapping paper.
The Cover and Title
The cover is dark in color with navy drapes framing a snowy windowsill and deep burgundy walls and floor — that sheepskin rug does help to provide contrast to the blue-haired Jayne and Sin sitting in front of the Christmas tree surrounded by presents. You can almost see Spider scratching at the tree on the left, and the better-behaved Sugar sitting by Sin's hand. At the very top is a colonial blue series info with the title immediately below in white. At the bottom is an info blurb and the author's name, also in white.
The title is that Jayne and Santa's Workshop — and the police — are Wrapped Up in Christmas.
December 17, 2022
I don’t know where to start. I absolutely loved this book. It can be enjoyed as a stand alone but there’s so much you would miss of not really be in tune to. If you’ve read the Nocturne Falls series or even Jayne Frost you will definitely want to read this one. Things are really taking a turn in both series. And I can’t wait for more. The mystery part was really good. I was really surprised at who was behind it. There’s a new Christmas wrapping paper out that’s really quite magical. It has some tape that helps it light up and sparkle. But someone is breaking into houses and stealing it. Unwrapping gifts and taking the paper. Jayne is in town so she is helping out at the store. Of course she runs into danger. We get to see her in action and also, her sexy husband Sin gets to show off his gift a little. I was so happy that Bertie was in the story. She’s the best. I feel like I’m a part of this town and now I’m sad I finished the book! I don’t know what else to say because I don’t want to spoil it but no words are good enough to do it justice.
If you like audiobooks, you will love this. It took me a little bit to warm up to the female voice but I adjusted pretty quick. In my head Jayne doesn’t sound like that. Of course, I’m used to BJ Harrison . He’s wonderful with any voice. They both really complimented each other.
If you like audiobooks, you will love this. It took me a little bit to warm up to the female voice but I adjusted pretty quick. In my head Jayne doesn’t sound like that. Of course, I’m used to BJ Harrison . He’s wonderful with any voice. They both really complimented each other.
August 18, 2023
I really enjoy this series. In fact, I've read books in multiple series' by this author and very much enjoy her writing style, world-building and character development across all her books. That said, the ending of this book didn't thrill me (which is all I'll say to avoid spoilers).
I have loved Jayne Frost since the first book, and her eventually getting married didn't detract from either her adventures or the new world-building. This is a wonderful and engaging paranormal world and the various paranormal species here are unique and clever.
Given the, as noted, not-my-favourite ending here, I'm not sure I would read future books in this sub-series. But that's okay as Kristen Painter is a prolific author with many series to choose from and I've enjoyed all of them so there is plenty of other choice from her. I definitely recommend this author if you like well-written, creative and engaging paranormal fiction with lots of variety.
I have loved Jayne Frost since the first book, and her eventually getting married didn't detract from either her adventures or the new world-building. This is a wonderful and engaging paranormal world and the various paranormal species here are unique and clever.
Given the, as noted, not-my-favourite ending here, I'm not sure I would read future books in this sub-series. But that's okay as Kristen Painter is a prolific author with many series to choose from and I've enjoyed all of them so there is plenty of other choice from her. I definitely recommend this author if you like well-written, creative and engaging paranormal fiction with lots of variety.
October 8, 2023
This book was incredible! I really enjoyed it! I can't wait to read the next book!
November 23, 2022
A great way to return to Nocturne Falls. I missed spider, Jayne and Sin…..and Birdie too!
August 24, 2023
My new favorite Jayne mystery!
December 9, 2022
It’s a win, Win, WIN! Grab it now,!
Welcome to Nocturne Falls, the town that celebrates Halloween 365 days a year! That’s the “tag line” for this, oh so, enjoyable series of books. This is actually the 2nd book in the 3rd series set in this town, but if you haven’t read any of the others. It isn’t necessary. And, believe me, when I say that, I mean it. I’m usually the reviewer who is telling you to pick up the entire series from the first look forward.
If this is the first time you’ve come across this series, and you are in for a treat beyond imagining because this is probably one of the best out of all of the books to date. They do a great disservice when they label these books as “paranormal romance,“ because while they certainly fit into that genre, that label Doesn’t even begin to describe how incredibly well crafted and articulate these little, cute stories are.
When I especially love the way Kristen Painter uses dialogue to shape the mood and tone. She seldom resorts to what one author call the campfire/dinner table scene. This is essentially a device that is used to create a reasonable scenario for meaningful conversations to take place, allowing the author to essentially reveal any critical info needed to move the story forward. Instead she allows the natural dynamics of her characters to shape the story, so we essentially gather info and learn things right along with them.
Beyond that, and I must confess that I have yet to figure out what it is about writing that allows her to achieve this, she has a great gift for making the obvious suspenseful. What I mean is this, in a cute little “cozy mystery,” no matter the threat or danger the protagonist faces, two things are a given - 1) the hero or heroine will survive and be just fine, and 2) the good guys always win. It’s nigh on impossible, therefore to create a credible, let alone believable “threat” scenario when the reader knows better. And yet, Kristen Painter does just that! Not only does she do that, but she HAS DONE that repeatedly, across I don’t know (I’m gonna speculate here and say 23, 24) maybe 25 books. Quite literally, I was ripping through page after page as my anxiety grew while reading this one. My logical brain knew I had nothing to worry about, but my emotional brain wasn’t having any of that nonsense and demanded proof and confirmation. Well done, Ms. Painter. Well done, indeed!
Welcome to Nocturne Falls, the town that celebrates Halloween 365 days a year! That’s the “tag line” for this, oh so, enjoyable series of books. This is actually the 2nd book in the 3rd series set in this town, but if you haven’t read any of the others. It isn’t necessary. And, believe me, when I say that, I mean it. I’m usually the reviewer who is telling you to pick up the entire series from the first look forward.
If this is the first time you’ve come across this series, and you are in for a treat beyond imagining because this is probably one of the best out of all of the books to date. They do a great disservice when they label these books as “paranormal romance,“ because while they certainly fit into that genre, that label Doesn’t even begin to describe how incredibly well crafted and articulate these little, cute stories are.
When I especially love the way Kristen Painter uses dialogue to shape the mood and tone. She seldom resorts to what one author call the campfire/dinner table scene. This is essentially a device that is used to create a reasonable scenario for meaningful conversations to take place, allowing the author to essentially reveal any critical info needed to move the story forward. Instead she allows the natural dynamics of her characters to shape the story, so we essentially gather info and learn things right along with them.
Beyond that, and I must confess that I have yet to figure out what it is about writing that allows her to achieve this, she has a great gift for making the obvious suspenseful. What I mean is this, in a cute little “cozy mystery,” no matter the threat or danger the protagonist faces, two things are a given - 1) the hero or heroine will survive and be just fine, and 2) the good guys always win. It’s nigh on impossible, therefore to create a credible, let alone believable “threat” scenario when the reader knows better. And yet, Kristen Painter does just that! Not only does she do that, but she HAS DONE that repeatedly, across I don’t know (I’m gonna speculate here and say 23, 24) maybe 25 books. Quite literally, I was ripping through page after page as my anxiety grew while reading this one. My logical brain knew I had nothing to worry about, but my emotional brain wasn’t having any of that nonsense and demanded proof and confirmation. Well done, Ms. Painter. Well done, indeed!
December 3, 2022
Series: Frost & Crowe Mystery #2
Rating: 3 stars - I liked it
After almost two years on the road, Jayne and Sinclair have returned to Nocturne Falls for the Christmas season to help out in the short-staffed Santa’s Workshop. While it is wonderful for them to be back among friends, someone is breaking into houses and trying to ruin Christmas.
It was so nice to be back with this couple, and to be back in Nocturne Falls. I have missed this small town and the wild characters that live within it. This is Jayne and Sinclair’s first Christmas on their own since they got married. While they love being back in Nocturne Falls, they are starting to feel a bit emotional now that they are not constantly on the road. Jayne is struggling with some homesickness and a bit of jealousy. Sinclair is struggling with his need to be productive and also take care of his wife. I really loved seeing how strong their love has grown and how cohesive of a couple they are now.
The mystery in this was quite interesting. The break-ins and the reasons behind them were very unique and not something I expected. I enjoyed the whole mystery and how Jayne handled the situation. She really has become a very strong woman who can take care of herself, especially until help arrives. I have always liked that about her.
My only real complaint about this book was that the beginning was a bit slow. It was a lot of day-to-day stuff that while interesting, did feel a bit tedious as the story was getting set up. I still really enjoyed the whole book but after rereading the first book before this one, it definitely felt a lot slower paced.
Overall, I really love that we are getting books focused on this couple. I do wonder after the ending if there will be more books in the future though and if so, how that will play out.
Trigger Warnings: kidnapping; physical injuries;
You can also find my reviews at Red-Haired Ash Reads.
Rating: 3 stars - I liked it
After almost two years on the road, Jayne and Sinclair have returned to Nocturne Falls for the Christmas season to help out in the short-staffed Santa’s Workshop. While it is wonderful for them to be back among friends, someone is breaking into houses and trying to ruin Christmas.
It was so nice to be back with this couple, and to be back in Nocturne Falls. I have missed this small town and the wild characters that live within it. This is Jayne and Sinclair’s first Christmas on their own since they got married. While they love being back in Nocturne Falls, they are starting to feel a bit emotional now that they are not constantly on the road. Jayne is struggling with some homesickness and a bit of jealousy. Sinclair is struggling with his need to be productive and also take care of his wife. I really loved seeing how strong their love has grown and how cohesive of a couple they are now.
The mystery in this was quite interesting. The break-ins and the reasons behind them were very unique and not something I expected. I enjoyed the whole mystery and how Jayne handled the situation. She really has become a very strong woman who can take care of herself, especially until help arrives. I have always liked that about her.
My only real complaint about this book was that the beginning was a bit slow. It was a lot of day-to-day stuff that while interesting, did feel a bit tedious as the story was getting set up. I still really enjoyed the whole book but after rereading the first book before this one, it definitely felt a lot slower paced.
Overall, I really love that we are getting books focused on this couple. I do wonder after the ending if there will be more books in the future though and if so, how that will play out.
Trigger Warnings: kidnapping; physical injuries;
You can also find my reviews at Red-Haired Ash Reads.
November 26, 2022
Perfect Christmas Read
I love everything Kristen Painter writes. The storylines, the characters, the towns she creates, and the cookbook she has yet to publish.
Jayne Frost was a fun prequel series to the Frost and Crowe series. This series is so much more. Jayne is a confident woman who is married to a confident man. They are a perfect team together. Sinclair is a real gentleman who’s love for Jayne is neither controlling nor emasculated by her position and power. Jayne is strong, bright, intelligent, and caring. It really is a pleasure to spend time with them.
It took me a long while to figure out the villain in this one and nearly didn’t find out before Jayne did. At first I was upset with Sinclair’s use of power to achieve what was needed, but when I thought of a vampire using their power to get results, I was able to let it go.
I used Audible and Kindle to keep the story going. Audible has dual narrators which is not always my favorite. I love both BJ Harrison’s and Hollis McCarthy’s narrations, but Spider’s voice sounds too much like Alice Bishop when Harrison narrates. Made for some weirdness, but in the end was super minor.
I knew in the first chapter what was revealed later in the book and hope many more people read this book so the author keeps writing them (Especially a companion cookbook).
I love everything Kristen Painter writes. The storylines, the characters, the towns she creates, and the cookbook she has yet to publish.
Jayne Frost was a fun prequel series to the Frost and Crowe series. This series is so much more. Jayne is a confident woman who is married to a confident man. They are a perfect team together. Sinclair is a real gentleman who’s love for Jayne is neither controlling nor emasculated by her position and power. Jayne is strong, bright, intelligent, and caring. It really is a pleasure to spend time with them.
It took me a long while to figure out the villain in this one and nearly didn’t find out before Jayne did. At first I was upset with Sinclair’s use of power to achieve what was needed, but when I thought of a vampire using their power to get results, I was able to let it go.
I used Audible and Kindle to keep the story going. Audible has dual narrators which is not always my favorite. I love both BJ Harrison’s and Hollis McCarthy’s narrations, but Spider’s voice sounds too much like Alice Bishop when Harrison narrates. Made for some weirdness, but in the end was super minor.
I knew in the first chapter what was revealed later in the book and hope many more people read this book so the author keeps writing them (Especially a companion cookbook).
December 5, 2022
Wrapped up in Christmas is unofficial book 9 of the Jayne Frost series. It is the second book of the spin off Frost & Crowe Mystery series which focuses on Jayne and Sinclair together. I live for these books and reading them is like traveling home and catching up with old friends. I really like multiple series and many many books by this author, but the Jayne Frost series were the first Kristen Painter books I read. Then I devoured the Nocturne Falls books which is actually where the majority of the Jayne Frost books are set.
I liked the mystery in this book and of course loved the characters. I was a little disappointed by the fact that the side characters weren’t involved to the extent they usually are. When the big danger took place and Jayne was in trouble, I was really surprised and a bit bummed that no one reached out to Jack Frost to give him a heads up and I was really sad that we didn’t get to see the family discuss some important news. It was also weird that while they were back in Nocturne Falls, there was no mention of the Ellinghams.
The narration was wonderful as always. I really prefer Spider’s voice by the female narrator, but it was still good regardless. I will be eagerly awaiting the next book for Jayne and Sinclair. I can’t wait to see what happens next for them.
I liked the mystery in this book and of course loved the characters. I was a little disappointed by the fact that the side characters weren’t involved to the extent they usually are. When the big danger took place and Jayne was in trouble, I was really surprised and a bit bummed that no one reached out to Jack Frost to give him a heads up and I was really sad that we didn’t get to see the family discuss some important news. It was also weird that while they were back in Nocturne Falls, there was no mention of the Ellinghams.
The narration was wonderful as always. I really prefer Spider’s voice by the female narrator, but it was still good regardless. I will be eagerly awaiting the next book for Jayne and Sinclair. I can’t wait to see what happens next for them.
January 19, 2025
Jayne and Sinclair are back in Nocturne Falls to help at the toy store during the Christmas season and THINGS are afoot. Some of those things are decidedly Christmassy and some are VERY MUCH NOT.
On the Christmassy side, Jayne is filling in for one of the workers at the toyshop so they can deal with a family emergency. It isn't hard for her to fall into old work routines and spend time with her friends in Nocturne Falls. She and Sin have a sweet camper to go home to at night and all the sweets she can handle.
On the non-Christmassy side, a series of break-ins around town have the NFPD stumped. As a whole, the break-ins bother Jayne and Sin because who would want to ruin Christmas? As an official North Pole delegate (and Santa's niece), Jayne isn't keen on anybody experiencing a bad Christmas. So she straps on her detecting cap and she and Sin start investigating.
A little winter elf magic, donuts that make Jayne swoon, present-buying, food-eating, and a fair amount of investigative leaps to get to the bottom of this potential holiday mishap. That said, this is a dangerous situation Jayne and Sin have stumbled into and it's going to take some quick thinking to get out of it unharmed. *thumbs up*
-Kelly @ Reading the Paranormal
On the Christmassy side, Jayne is filling in for one of the workers at the toyshop so they can deal with a family emergency. It isn't hard for her to fall into old work routines and spend time with her friends in Nocturne Falls. She and Sin have a sweet camper to go home to at night and all the sweets she can handle.
On the non-Christmassy side, a series of break-ins around town have the NFPD stumped. As a whole, the break-ins bother Jayne and Sin because who would want to ruin Christmas? As an official North Pole delegate (and Santa's niece), Jayne isn't keen on anybody experiencing a bad Christmas. So she straps on her detecting cap and she and Sin start investigating.
A little winter elf magic, donuts that make Jayne swoon, present-buying, food-eating, and a fair amount of investigative leaps to get to the bottom of this potential holiday mishap. That said, this is a dangerous situation Jayne and Sin have stumbled into and it's going to take some quick thinking to get out of it unharmed. *thumbs up*
-Kelly @ Reading the Paranormal
July 8, 2025
I’m still disappointed that Sinclair still doesn’t feel like a fully fleshed out character. He seems to be there just to prop up Jayne and it makes her come off as a spoiled princess – literally. Everything he does is taking care of Jayne, making Jayne happy, giving her everything she wants. I need more from him.
The whole mystery was lame like seriously it made Sherriff Marrow look incompetent by letter Jayne figure everything out. I also didn’t buy that Jayne was worried it would make the shop look bad and folks blame them for the break-ins. It was reaching.
The action of the mystery would have been more interesting if Sinclair had taken the lead in the mystery and we really got to see him. Even when he loses his temper in fear of Jayne’s safety – it seems unthreatening after we’ve seen what most of the other Nocturne Falls characters can do. It almost made me laugh aloud when he tried to sound tough.
The ending didn’t make me happy, but it is hinted at throughout the entire book – doesn’t bode well for the series. I hope the author uses it to wrap everything up for Jayne and Sinclair.
The whole mystery was lame like seriously it made Sherriff Marrow look incompetent by letter Jayne figure everything out. I also didn’t buy that Jayne was worried it would make the shop look bad and folks blame them for the break-ins. It was reaching.
The action of the mystery would have been more interesting if Sinclair had taken the lead in the mystery and we really got to see him. Even when he loses his temper in fear of Jayne’s safety – it seems unthreatening after we’ve seen what most of the other Nocturne Falls characters can do. It almost made me laugh aloud when he tried to sound tough.
The ending didn’t make me happy, but it is hinted at throughout the entire book – doesn’t bode well for the series. I hope the author uses it to wrap everything up for Jayne and Sinclair.
June 3, 2023
After traveling around the states touring the Santa’s Workshop stores, Jayne and Sinclair arrive home to the Nocturne Falls RV park. She has to fill in for a manager on personal leave, with plenty of time left to enjoy Christmas at home. But there’s mystery for them to solve. Somebody is breaking into homes and stealing the wrapping paper off of presents.
I love the 2 kitties, but I think having my kitty talk for real would drive me crazy.
Footnote: 1) I just finished reading the Nocturne Falls book #14 ‘The Vampire’s Sunny Sweetheart’ before this and both books have the different female character saying after they eat that should probably jog. Almost exact same words. Repetitious?
2) It’s also a nice change to read about supernaturals without a lot sex in the story. It’s implied a few times, they are married, but not implicitly detailed.
3) With all the mentions of Dr. Pepper I hope the author’s either getting paid for advertising or has paid for the rights to use the name.
Fave scenes: Spider in the Christmas tree, the snowmen and Sinclair ‘questioning’ Jerry.
I love the 2 kitties, but I think having my kitty talk for real would drive me crazy.
Footnote: 1) I just finished reading the Nocturne Falls book #14 ‘The Vampire’s Sunny Sweetheart’ before this and both books have the different female character saying after they eat that should probably jog. Almost exact same words. Repetitious?
2) It’s also a nice change to read about supernaturals without a lot sex in the story. It’s implied a few times, they are married, but not implicitly detailed.
3) With all the mentions of Dr. Pepper I hope the author’s either getting paid for advertising or has paid for the rights to use the name.
Fave scenes: Spider in the Christmas tree, the snowmen and Sinclair ‘questioning’ Jerry.
November 27, 2022
Loved it so much
So good another great adventure with Jayne, Sin, spider, sugar, and the nocturne Falls gang.
I like most about this book is that the mystery isn't up front. It takes a little while to figure it out. The mystery is believable and kind of plausible in this world.
I love that Jane and Sin are shown in a really good relationship even his ex shows up and it has no real effect on him though she tries. I also like how the m mystery was handled and I really enjoyed the ending of the book The Surprise twist makes me want more Frost and Crow mysteries.
Hoping Miss painter gets enough reviews that want more that more books in this series are written.
No this is the latest book in an ongoing series which is a spin off of a completed series and is still ongoing series which that was spun off of it you really need to read the first couple books in the series. you could read it as a standalone you would have some questions.
So good another great adventure with Jayne, Sin, spider, sugar, and the nocturne Falls gang.
I like most about this book is that the mystery isn't up front. It takes a little while to figure it out. The mystery is believable and kind of plausible in this world.
I love that Jane and Sin are shown in a really good relationship even his ex shows up and it has no real effect on him though she tries. I also like how the m mystery was handled and I really enjoyed the ending of the book The Surprise twist makes me want more Frost and Crow mysteries.
Hoping Miss painter gets enough reviews that want more that more books in this series are written.
No this is the latest book in an ongoing series which is a spin off of a completed series and is still ongoing series which that was spun off of it you really need to read the first couple books in the series. you could read it as a standalone you would have some questions.
September 21, 2024
Princess Jayne Frost and Prince Consort Sinclair Crowe have been called back to Nocturne Falls for Christmas so that Jayne can help out at the short-staffed Santa’s Workshop.
Being back means seeing some old friends, but also finding new trouble that Jayne just can’t stop thinking about. Are the random break-ins really someone trying to ruin Christmas? Because as Santa Claus’s niece, that feels personal to her.
But when the real reason for the break-ins gets unwrapped, Jayne decides to do everything in her power to put an end to the problem.
Too bad it might also mean the end of her.
I loved the dynamics between Jane and Sinclair. This book is a very good mystery. The characters are well written and I love a good mystery. Nocturne Falls is always a great place for a mystery. Overall this book is well written and was read very well. I really enjoyed this book and can't wait to see what's next from Kristen Painter! You don't want to miss out on this author she is great!
Being back means seeing some old friends, but also finding new trouble that Jayne just can’t stop thinking about. Are the random break-ins really someone trying to ruin Christmas? Because as Santa Claus’s niece, that feels personal to her.
But when the real reason for the break-ins gets unwrapped, Jayne decides to do everything in her power to put an end to the problem.
Too bad it might also mean the end of her.
I loved the dynamics between Jane and Sinclair. This book is a very good mystery. The characters are well written and I love a good mystery. Nocturne Falls is always a great place for a mystery. Overall this book is well written and was read very well. I really enjoyed this book and can't wait to see what's next from Kristen Painter! You don't want to miss out on this author she is great!
November 29, 2022
Funny enough I was wrapping some presents as I listened to this and I definitely need some of that Christmas Magic wrapping paper!
Kristen Painter always writes the best stories that pull me right in. I love Jayne & Sinclair and their adventures. Add in Spider & Sugar with their adorableness and we have another great book in the series!! It was great to be back in Nocturne Falls with the crew.
As always B.J. and Hollis did a great job bringing this to life on audio.
After that ending, we definitely need more!!!!
My rating scale:
5☆ - I loved this book and it brought out true emotion in me (laughter, anger, a good cry, etc)
4☆ - I loved this book.
3☆ - I liked this book.
2☆ - I didn't really care for this book.
1☆ - I did not like this book at all and probably did not finish it.
Kristen Painter always writes the best stories that pull me right in. I love Jayne & Sinclair and their adventures. Add in Spider & Sugar with their adorableness and we have another great book in the series!! It was great to be back in Nocturne Falls with the crew.
As always B.J. and Hollis did a great job bringing this to life on audio.
After that ending, we definitely need more!!!!
My rating scale:
5☆ - I loved this book and it brought out true emotion in me (laughter, anger, a good cry, etc)
4☆ - I loved this book.
3☆ - I liked this book.
2☆ - I didn't really care for this book.
1☆ - I did not like this book at all and probably did not finish it.
December 9, 2022
These are always cute. Jayne is spoiled and not terribly bright - but she seems nice and Sinclair is ready to do all the work to make her life good. A fun series. Hopefully the ending doesn't spoil any future adventure stories that may come in this series.
November 29, 2022
2022 bk 369. What a wonderful and fun sequel. With almost 2 years of togetherness and traveling the States visiting the Toy stores, Sinclair and Jayne get to return to Nocturne Falls for a longer stay. Covering for a manager on family leave, the two arrive in time to see the store in action selling the newest paper (using tech to light the lights on the wrapping paper). They are also in time to listen to Birdie's concerns about a mysterious burglar and to help Archie out at the donut shop. With a mystery in town, of course the two get involved. A fun tale that I will enjoy reading time and again!
November 30, 2022
I am so happy we got another Jayne and Crowe novel. As always the talented Kristen Painter delivers to fans a fantastic story and a return to where it all began, Nocturne Falls. I loved the mystery and the wonderful storytelling. The characters are believable and within the world that is Nocturne Falls and The Jayne Frost & Frost & Crowe mysteries, everything is plausible. You will enjoy this book so much more by reading all the books that come beforehand. A bit of "light reading" if you're not caught up in the world, but certainly worth the week-long binge to get there. 5 stars easily.
December 3, 2022
I am in love!
I absolutely love Jayne and Sin and I am SO glad to be back in their world!! Ms. Painter does an amazing job writing intriguing mysteries and this one is no exception! Jayne heads back to Nocturne Falls to cover for another winter elf in the Christmas shop. Upon entering the town they are immediately thrust into a slew of mysterious break-ins and of course Jayne wants to get involved. Nocturne Falls regulars are scattered in the book and it has just the best wrap up present at the end
I absolutely love Jayne and Sin and I am SO glad to be back in their world!! Ms. Painter does an amazing job writing intriguing mysteries and this one is no exception! Jayne heads back to Nocturne Falls to cover for another winter elf in the Christmas shop. Upon entering the town they are immediately thrust into a slew of mysterious break-ins and of course Jayne wants to get involved. Nocturne Falls regulars are scattered in the book and it has just the best wrap up present at the end
December 6, 2022
My favorite frosty couple are back for more adventures and more mysteries to be solved. This time they are back in good old Nocturne Falls to help out at the toy store. What originated as a brilliant and convenient idea turns into a mystery that must be solved before the holidays are ruined for all of Nocturne Falls. Spider and Sugar are there demanding treats and being all around adorable as usual. We meet an interesting character from someone's past that may or may not be bad news. You'll have to read it to find out but there are a couple of delightful surprises waiting in this one.
November 18, 2022
What does Christmas wrapping paper and money have in common? Interested in talking cats? If you would like to find out you must read this book.
I love getting to go back to Nocturne Falls., Add in Jayne and Sinclair and it gets even better.
Another great read by Kristen Painter. I just love the world she has made for her readers. I would love to visit there for real sometimes. I feel like with every book I read, I get to catch up with my friends. Such a great feeling.
I love getting to go back to Nocturne Falls., Add in Jayne and Sinclair and it gets even better.
Another great read by Kristen Painter. I just love the world she has made for her readers. I would love to visit there for real sometimes. I feel like with every book I read, I get to catch up with my friends. Such a great feeling.
November 27, 2022
Love Love LOVE!!
Absolutely awesome book! Loved getting more sleuthing with Jayne Frost & her hubby Sinclair Crowe. Especially loved catching up with Spider and Sugar the cats and Birdie. The story was fast paced and kept me glued to my Kindle until the very last word. Great story and new characters. Especially loved the little surprise at the end (even if I did figure that out early on). Can’t wait for the next installment!!!
Absolutely awesome book! Loved getting more sleuthing with Jayne Frost & her hubby Sinclair Crowe. Especially loved catching up with Spider and Sugar the cats and Birdie. The story was fast paced and kept me glued to my Kindle until the very last word. Great story and new characters. Especially loved the little surprise at the end (even if I did figure that out early on). Can’t wait for the next installment!!!
January 11, 2023
Painter. Never. Fails.
You just can't go wrong with any book by Kristen Painter. The plot for this newest Frost & Crowe mystery will gently lure you in then whip you through the climactic ending at a deliciously breakneck speed. You'll delight in reacquainting with many of your favorite NF residents and, of course, catch up with Spider and Sugar along the way.
Buy it. You won't be sorry!
You just can't go wrong with any book by Kristen Painter. The plot for this newest Frost & Crowe mystery will gently lure you in then whip you through the climactic ending at a deliciously breakneck speed. You'll delight in reacquainting with many of your favorite NF residents and, of course, catch up with Spider and Sugar along the way.
Buy it. You won't be sorry!
January 11, 2023
Paper surprise!
Jayne and Sinclair are back in Nocture Falls for Christmas. Jayne is filling in at the Christmas toy shop so Buttercup can go home to see her sick grandmother. As usual, werd things are happening. Someone is breaking into homes in the middle of the night and unwrapping gifts and stealing the wrapping paper. Now Jayne is trying to figure out why.
I always love Jayne and Sinclair mysteries. The more the better!!
Jayne and Sinclair are back in Nocture Falls for Christmas. Jayne is filling in at the Christmas toy shop so Buttercup can go home to see her sick grandmother. As usual, werd things are happening. Someone is breaking into homes in the middle of the night and unwrapping gifts and stealing the wrapping paper. Now Jayne is trying to figure out why.
I always love Jayne and Sinclair mysteries. The more the better!!
October 15, 2024
Sweet, fun romp through the snow
(minor spoilers) A good, fast read, fun characters, and, of course Spider, Jayne's talking cat. A few minor quibbles (how can wrapping paper ruin Christmas?), and Jayne and Sinclair's near constant declarations of how perfect they each were wore on me a bit, especially since the beginning was a bit slow.. Once they main story got going, it was a fun ride.
(minor spoilers) A good, fast read, fun characters, and, of course Spider, Jayne's talking cat. A few minor quibbles (how can wrapping paper ruin Christmas?), and Jayne and Sinclair's near constant declarations of how perfect they each were wore on me a bit, especially since the beginning was a bit slow.. Once they main story got going, it was a fun ride.
November 22, 2022
wow
I absolutely love this series!! I was so happy when I saw it was another Frost and Crowe book available I preordered it and couldn’t be happier ❤️. Christmas is approaching and Jayne and Sinclair go back to Nocturne Falls to help out at the Toy store only to be thrown in a mystery. This book has so much mystery and love I couldn’t get enough.
I absolutely love this series!! I was so happy when I saw it was another Frost and Crowe book available I preordered it and couldn’t be happier ❤️. Christmas is approaching and Jayne and Sinclair go back to Nocturne Falls to help out at the Toy store only to be thrown in a mystery. This book has so much mystery and love I couldn’t get enough.
November 24, 2022
Oh so good!
I just love Jayne Frost books. For now, it's my favourite Kristen Painter series. I don't know if this is the last book in this series but if it is, it's a beautiful ending. As always, Jayne gets herself into trouble but with the help of her husband and her friends from Nocturne Falls, all turns out well.
I just love Jayne Frost books. For now, it's my favourite Kristen Painter series. I don't know if this is the last book in this series but if it is, it's a beautiful ending. As always, Jayne gets herself into trouble but with the help of her husband and her friends from Nocturne Falls, all turns out well.
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