What do you think?
Rate this book
A Jane Wunderly Mystery #4.5
Murder Under the Mistletoe
Recently engaged Jane Wunderly is celebrating Christmas with her fiancé at his ancestral home at the quaint English market town of Barnard Castle—where murder is the new family tradition . . .
Northern England, 1926: Surprised by her eager acceptance of Redvers’ proposal, Jane is ready to spend the festive season deciphering the mysterious man she agreed to marry, while surviving scrutiny from the icy Dibble clan at their snow-dusted manor. But all attention shifts to the announcement of upcoming nuptials between the humorless Evelyn Hesse and the man who will become Jane’s father-in-law.
One fact is clear—Evelyn shouldn’t be trusted. Not as rumors swirl about the deaths of her other husbands. Not after a man is murdered at a party before Christmas Day. With one wedding approaching and their own in peril, Jane and Redvers must dash to unravel dark secrets that could ruin their first holiday together . . . or cost another person their life.
Northern England, 1926: Surprised by her eager acceptance of Redvers’ proposal, Jane is ready to spend the festive season deciphering the mysterious man she agreed to marry, while surviving scrutiny from the icy Dibble clan at their snow-dusted manor. But all attention shifts to the announcement of upcoming nuptials between the humorless Evelyn Hesse and the man who will become Jane’s father-in-law.
One fact is clear—Evelyn shouldn’t be trusted. Not as rumors swirl about the deaths of her other husbands. Not after a man is murdered at a party before Christmas Day. With one wedding approaching and their own in peril, Jane and Redvers must dash to unravel dark secrets that could ruin their first holiday together . . . or cost another person their life.
147 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 26, 2023
55 people are currently reading
2025 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 113 reviews
October 15, 2023
This was a delightful novell entry in the Jane Wunderly mystery series, set over the Christmas holidays. Jane and Redvers have traveled to visit his father for the first time. When they arrive, they're in for a surprised, when his father announces he's engaged and will be married on Christmas.
Something just seems off about the fiancee, and some of her companions, leading Jane and Redvers to investigate. The mystery was interesting, but the characters even more so. I loved Redvers aunts, and was happy when Jane's Aunt Millie made an apperance.
While I suppose this could be read as a standalone, I'm not convinced it would be as meaningful to someone who hasn't read the rest of the series.
Something just seems off about the fiancee, and some of her companions, leading Jane and Redvers to investigate. The mystery was interesting, but the characters even more so. I loved Redvers aunts, and was happy when Jane's Aunt Millie made an apperance.
While I suppose this could be read as a standalone, I'm not convinced it would be as meaningful to someone who hasn't read the rest of the series.
February 4, 2025
Jane and Redvers travel to England to meet Redvers's family. Redvers is shocked to discover his father is recently engaged and soon to be married to a twice widowed newcomer to the village. Evelyn Hesse is cut from the same mold as Redvers's mother and he is not so thrilled about this new union. When they hear a rumor that Evelyn's two husbands may not have died of natural causes, it gives Redvers a reason to investigate the widow and save his father. When their best source drops dead at a Christmas party, it seems to confirm their suspicions that someone doesn't want them asking questions. Can they find proof and save Mr. Dibble?
This story has a good dash of holiday charm and a lot of humor. This is a novella so the plot is a little sparse but there is a good deal of picking locks and asking questions. I wasn't entirely surprised by the reveal. I kind of figured it was something along those lines.
Jane has really grown and matured since she first met Redvers. She still bears the emotional scars from her first marriage and isn't entirely sure she's ready for another marriage. Yet she loves Redvers, acknowledges this and wants to protect him from the hurt he feels at being so distant from his only living parent. He, too, has emotional scars from a traumatic childhood with unloving parents and a cruel elder brother. Understandably, he's patient with Jane and realizes she's still healing from her past. They're a lot more affectionate with each other, stealing kisses and slipping into her bed together. It's nice to see the relationship developing. I like it when they sleuth together and Jane has learned to pick locks so she can get in on the action. I do feel like if this were not a crafted mystery NOVEL but a real life situation, Redvers would be looking for reasons to hate Evelyn and prevent the marriage and there wouldn't be a good reason other than her personality.
This is, however, a novel, therefore, we must be suspicious of twice-widowed Evelyn. Mr. Dibble is a stiff upper lip sort of man. He's unemotional, unaffectionate and uncommunicative. Apparently he wasn't even going to invite his only living child to his wedding! Was he at least going to write and tell Redvers? He should have given Redvers a heads-up that he was giving Evelyn the family ring from Mother's side! Redvers feels this ring belongs to Jane and therefore, he's prepared to be suspicious of Evelyn. Sure she might be a fortune hunter but can you blame her? If her previous husbands died in debt and she didn't have much to begin with or she's in debt for some other reason, she needs a husband. Or perhaps Mr. Dibble just needs a strong woman to tell him what to do. They're a strange couple. Evelyn has a forceful personality but she helps the butler pick up a mess without scolding and she's not horrible to the servants. While she's not horrible, she's not kind and caring towards Redvers and doesn't really make Jane feel welcome either. Jane's American manners are very different and relaxed compared to the stuffy formality of the English family. Evelyn's brother is in town but no one has met him, knew she had a brother and a meeting with him causes her to be upset and anxious. Ah is this another gambling brother plot? Or is it something more sinister? How could she have killed two husbands without anyone realizing?
Redvers' two aunts are absolutely delightful! He's lucky he had two warm, loving, carefree women to help raise him. Aunt Carolyn is very different than her sister. Aunt Marie, Aunt Carolyn's sister-in-law is her best friend. Aunt Carolyn is a hot ticket. Aunt Marie is sweet and kind. Both women possess sharp wit and they're quick to skewer anyone they don't care for. They make it clear they don't like Evelyn and are suspicious of her because her last two husbands died. It's the aunts who start the rumor Evelyn did in her men which they really should not have mentioned. It was just gossip and hearsay at that point. I love how the women keep a little something on hand for keeping warm - and for fortification at Christmas parties, dinner, etc. Aunt Millie soon joins them and the three dowagers get along like a house on fire. Aunt Millie can be tough, demanding and snobby but she came through for Jane when it counted. I think the three old ladies should join Jane and Redvers and start a detective agency. Lord Hughes is very patient and mild-mannered to put up with Millie and her new friends. Lillian still wants nothing to do with romance - not even someone else's - or partying. She's a sporty gal who prefers golf clubs to people.
Evelyn brought her chauffeur, Carlisle, with her when she moved to the village and he will continue to work for her when she marries. He's quiet and doesn't reveal a lot about himself or Evelyn. Something happens while they're in the woods searching for a Christmas tree that puts him at the center of the mystery. What does he know about Evelyn's husbands? Does someone not want that information to get out? Dr. Taylor, the village doctor, signed the death certificate of Evelyn's second husband. He makes it clear he isn't interested in gossiping or speculating with Jane and Redvers and I don't blame him because that is surely illegal or unethical at best. The official authorities could request a copy of the death certificate, it will show husband 2 died after a brief illness and that would be that. The only way to know for sure would be to dig up the body and perform an autopsy. Ew! Then Dr. Taylor dies suddenly after drinking a cup of holiday cheer. Jane thinks it smells bitter and has her suspicions. Did someone stop Dr. Taylor from speaking to Jane and Redvers? Were they afraid he was drunk and would let something slip?
This story was a pleasant way to pass the time and I enjoyed it. I'm curious where Jane and Redvers are headed next so I will plow ahead with the next book in the series.
This story has a good dash of holiday charm and a lot of humor. This is a novella so the plot is a little sparse but there is a good deal of picking locks and asking questions. I wasn't entirely surprised by the reveal. I kind of figured it was something along those lines.
Jane has really grown and matured since she first met Redvers. She still bears the emotional scars from her first marriage and isn't entirely sure she's ready for another marriage. Yet she loves Redvers, acknowledges this and wants to protect him from the hurt he feels at being so distant from his only living parent. He, too, has emotional scars from a traumatic childhood with unloving parents and a cruel elder brother. Understandably, he's patient with Jane and realizes she's still healing from her past. They're a lot more affectionate with each other, stealing kisses and slipping into her bed together. It's nice to see the relationship developing. I like it when they sleuth together and Jane has learned to pick locks so she can get in on the action. I do feel like if this were not a crafted mystery NOVEL but a real life situation, Redvers would be looking for reasons to hate Evelyn and prevent the marriage and there wouldn't be a good reason other than her personality.
This is, however, a novel, therefore, we must be suspicious of twice-widowed Evelyn. Mr. Dibble is a stiff upper lip sort of man. He's unemotional, unaffectionate and uncommunicative. Apparently he wasn't even going to invite his only living child to his wedding! Was he at least going to write and tell Redvers? He should have given Redvers a heads-up that he was giving Evelyn the family ring from Mother's side! Redvers feels this ring belongs to Jane and therefore, he's prepared to be suspicious of Evelyn. Sure she might be a fortune hunter but can you blame her? If her previous husbands died in debt and she didn't have much to begin with or she's in debt for some other reason, she needs a husband. Or perhaps Mr. Dibble just needs a strong woman to tell him what to do. They're a strange couple. Evelyn has a forceful personality but she helps the butler pick up a mess without scolding and she's not horrible to the servants. While she's not horrible, she's not kind and caring towards Redvers and doesn't really make Jane feel welcome either. Jane's American manners are very different and relaxed compared to the stuffy formality of the English family. Evelyn's brother is in town but no one has met him, knew she had a brother and a meeting with him causes her to be upset and anxious. Ah is this another gambling brother plot? Or is it something more sinister? How could she have killed two husbands without anyone realizing?
Redvers' two aunts are absolutely delightful! He's lucky he had two warm, loving, carefree women to help raise him. Aunt Carolyn is very different than her sister. Aunt Marie, Aunt Carolyn's sister-in-law is her best friend. Aunt Carolyn is a hot ticket. Aunt Marie is sweet and kind. Both women possess sharp wit and they're quick to skewer anyone they don't care for. They make it clear they don't like Evelyn and are suspicious of her because her last two husbands died. It's the aunts who start the rumor Evelyn did in her men which they really should not have mentioned. It was just gossip and hearsay at that point. I love how the women keep a little something on hand for keeping warm - and for fortification at Christmas parties, dinner, etc. Aunt Millie soon joins them and the three dowagers get along like a house on fire. Aunt Millie can be tough, demanding and snobby but she came through for Jane when it counted. I think the three old ladies should join Jane and Redvers and start a detective agency. Lord Hughes is very patient and mild-mannered to put up with Millie and her new friends. Lillian still wants nothing to do with romance - not even someone else's - or partying. She's a sporty gal who prefers golf clubs to people.
Evelyn brought her chauffeur, Carlisle, with her when she moved to the village and he will continue to work for her when she marries. He's quiet and doesn't reveal a lot about himself or Evelyn. Something happens while they're in the woods searching for a Christmas tree that puts him at the center of the mystery. What does he know about Evelyn's husbands? Does someone not want that information to get out? Dr. Taylor, the village doctor, signed the death certificate of Evelyn's second husband. He makes it clear he isn't interested in gossiping or speculating with Jane and Redvers and I don't blame him because that is surely illegal or unethical at best. The official authorities could request a copy of the death certificate, it will show husband 2 died after a brief illness and that would be that. The only way to know for sure would be to dig up the body and perform an autopsy. Ew! Then Dr. Taylor dies suddenly after drinking a cup of holiday cheer. Jane thinks it smells bitter and has her suspicions. Did someone stop Dr. Taylor from speaking to Jane and Redvers? Were they afraid he was drunk and would let something slip?
This story was a pleasant way to pass the time and I enjoyed it. I'm curious where Jane and Redvers are headed next so I will plow ahead with the next book in the series.
December 16, 2023
Dollycas’s Thoughts
Jane is finally meeting Redvers’ father and the rest of his family as they travel to his ancestral home for the holidays. She and Redvers are beyond surprised to find out his father is marrying Evelyn Hesse on Christmas. Immediately they both believe there is something fishy about the woman and the rushed nuptials. They learn her previous husband’s deaths were suspicious. When a man is murdered at a holiday party she is at the top of their suspect list. They have to work fast before someone else dies and before Evelyn becomes Redvers’ stepmother.
I have enjoyed every book in this series so I was very happy to see this novella released. Jane is excited to meet Redvers’ family. His relationship with his father, Humphrey, has been strained to say the least. Jane thinks meeting the man with help her get to know more about the man she is engaged to marry. She also meets two of his aunts and they are just fabulous. Surprisingly, Jane’s Aunt Millie, Lord Hughes, and her daughter Lillian also find themselves in the charming village of Barnard Castle and then staying at the Dibble stone manor house after a snowstorm hits the area hard. Humphrey’s bride-to-be and her brother James are also snowed in.
It was great fun to see the Dibble family along with Jane and Evelyn take part in some family traditions even when things went terribly awry. Evelyn was very particular about everything from the tree, decorations, and behaviors at meals. This set up some interesting and humorous situations.
Jane and Redvers travel into town to try to find out more about the woman his father plans to marry and it shows their suspicions are warranted. Redvers used his contacts at the “agency” to investigate a couple of people too. They search the manor house and keep their eyes and ears open for any information about Evelyn and the murder victim, Dr. Taylor. I had pinned down the “who” dun it and thought I knew the “why” but a nice twist shook up my theories. I do love it when that happens.
Murder Under the Mistletoe is a captivating little Christmas cozy. Murder mixed with family drama and a little romance starring such engaging characters makes it a story to easily escape right into. The final pages made me smile. Fans of the series will absolutely love it.
Jane is finally meeting Redvers’ father and the rest of his family as they travel to his ancestral home for the holidays. She and Redvers are beyond surprised to find out his father is marrying Evelyn Hesse on Christmas. Immediately they both believe there is something fishy about the woman and the rushed nuptials. They learn her previous husband’s deaths were suspicious. When a man is murdered at a holiday party she is at the top of their suspect list. They have to work fast before someone else dies and before Evelyn becomes Redvers’ stepmother.
I have enjoyed every book in this series so I was very happy to see this novella released. Jane is excited to meet Redvers’ family. His relationship with his father, Humphrey, has been strained to say the least. Jane thinks meeting the man with help her get to know more about the man she is engaged to marry. She also meets two of his aunts and they are just fabulous. Surprisingly, Jane’s Aunt Millie, Lord Hughes, and her daughter Lillian also find themselves in the charming village of Barnard Castle and then staying at the Dibble stone manor house after a snowstorm hits the area hard. Humphrey’s bride-to-be and her brother James are also snowed in.
It was great fun to see the Dibble family along with Jane and Evelyn take part in some family traditions even when things went terribly awry. Evelyn was very particular about everything from the tree, decorations, and behaviors at meals. This set up some interesting and humorous situations.
Jane and Redvers travel into town to try to find out more about the woman his father plans to marry and it shows their suspicions are warranted. Redvers used his contacts at the “agency” to investigate a couple of people too. They search the manor house and keep their eyes and ears open for any information about Evelyn and the murder victim, Dr. Taylor. I had pinned down the “who” dun it and thought I knew the “why” but a nice twist shook up my theories. I do love it when that happens.
Murder Under the Mistletoe is a captivating little Christmas cozy. Murder mixed with family drama and a little romance starring such engaging characters makes it a story to easily escape right into. The final pages made me smile. Fans of the series will absolutely love it.
March 9, 2024
This was so much fun! I really enjoyed it! If only it were a full length book!
December 7, 2023
3.5 stars 😊
I never would have thought I’d use the words Cute and quirky to describe a murder mystery but here we are. This was a great read and something a bit different for the Christmas themed books! This had the perfect level of mystery and suspense all wrapped up in a gorgeous winter town with a side of romance!
I never would have thought I’d use the words Cute and quirky to describe a murder mystery but here we are. This was a great read and something a bit different for the Christmas themed books! This had the perfect level of mystery and suspense all wrapped up in a gorgeous winter town with a side of romance!
November 9, 2023
First off, you don’t necessarily have to read the other Jane Wunderly mysteries to understand and enjoy this novella set around the Christmas season. It’s a great Golden Age mystery that can be read in one sitting. However, I think if you’ve read some of the other mysteries, you’ll get more out of the characterizations. And it’s at a price point that’s Bargain Sleuth approved!
Jane is engaged to Redvers, whose job with the government is somewhat secret, but must involve spying because he’s usually carrying lock picking tools. The two have solved several mysteries together, but assume they’ll have a relaxing holiday at his father’s house, until they are introduced to a woman who is to marry Redvers’ father on Christmas Day. Evelyn’s got two dead husbands and Jane and Redvers are worried his dad will be next.
As the two try to investigate Redvers’ future stepmother, a man is found murdered, who could have provided some answers to the questions surrounding the deaths of Evelyn’s husbands. A series of incidents and the introduction of shady people make this a mystery that’s not too difficult to solve, yet the how and why are hard to figure out.
Overall, an enjoyable escape with one of my favorite female sleuths. Recommended!
For more reviews, visit www.bargain-sleuth.com
Jane is engaged to Redvers, whose job with the government is somewhat secret, but must involve spying because he’s usually carrying lock picking tools. The two have solved several mysteries together, but assume they’ll have a relaxing holiday at his father’s house, until they are introduced to a woman who is to marry Redvers’ father on Christmas Day. Evelyn’s got two dead husbands and Jane and Redvers are worried his dad will be next.
As the two try to investigate Redvers’ future stepmother, a man is found murdered, who could have provided some answers to the questions surrounding the deaths of Evelyn’s husbands. A series of incidents and the introduction of shady people make this a mystery that’s not too difficult to solve, yet the how and why are hard to figure out.
Overall, an enjoyable escape with one of my favorite female sleuths. Recommended!
For more reviews, visit www.bargain-sleuth.com
November 5, 2023
I appreciate receiving this book in a Goodreads giveaway, so I owe the author and other readers an honest review.
I have not read this mystery series and didn't know that it was a #4.5 when entering. I don't think you need to read previous books to enjoy this as a one off cozy Christmas mystery but I think I would have cared about the main characters a little more if I had. I loved their banter with each other but otherwise I felt like I was detached. I actually didn't see the twist of the resolution so it was a fun ending.
Overall it felt slow only because I hadn't been able to have the main characters established for me by previous books. I also felt it was a lot of showing or telling instead of letting the reader piece things together too. Nice, cozy Christmas mystery and brought me wintery vibes.
I have not read this mystery series and didn't know that it was a #4.5 when entering. I don't think you need to read previous books to enjoy this as a one off cozy Christmas mystery but I think I would have cared about the main characters a little more if I had. I loved their banter with each other but otherwise I felt like I was detached. I actually didn't see the twist of the resolution so it was a fun ending.
Overall it felt slow only because I hadn't been able to have the main characters established for me by previous books. I also felt it was a lot of showing or telling instead of letting the reader piece things together too. Nice, cozy Christmas mystery and brought me wintery vibes.
September 19, 2023
Cute cozy mystery
I won this in a Goodreads giveaway and I'm not required to write a review, but wanted to say this is a great little read. I have never read her books but now want to read the Jane Wunderly Mystery Series! It is a quick read, but perfect for the busy holiday season!
I won this in a Goodreads giveaway and I'm not required to write a review, but wanted to say this is a great little read. I have never read her books but now want to read the Jane Wunderly Mystery Series! It is a quick read, but perfect for the busy holiday season!
October 14, 2023
It was cute. I saw a couple of the twists coming a mile away and I could REALLY have done without the shoehorned Aunt Millie, but otherwise it was cute. 3.5.
December 16, 2023
2.5 stars, rounded up.
I think I may have enjoyed this book more if I had read others in the series, but this was the first and it felt like coming into a story midway.
I think I may have enjoyed this book more if I had read others in the series, but this was the first and it felt like coming into a story midway.
November 22, 2024
Fun and quick holiday installment to a favorite series. I enjoyed it!
December 29, 2024
This was a fun book and a short read. The banter between the characters kept it light-hearted and interesting. What I didn’t much care for was the writing - for example when the doctor dies (setting the chain in motion) it seems no one is shocked for very long. Wouldn’t you be traumatized or at least disturbed if you watched someone expire right in front of your eyes? Also Evelyn at one point ‘lifted her skirt a little’ a propos of nothing - that never went anywhere or had any reason to be there at all. Drove me bonkers. With a bit of extra development I would have easily given this 4 stars for a nice, cozy holiday mystery read. The twist was also fun.
October 31, 2024
Cute little story. Picked it up for a Christmas book club and my only regret is that I didn’t know there were 4 books before it. I felt like I definitely missed out on some of the character development that came from the other books. There were some fun little twists in this that I didn’t see coming though (and some I did), so a fun book. I may pick up some of her other books and fill in the blanks.
November 9, 2024
Very enjoyable novella.
Jane, newly engaged to Redvers, is traveling with him to spend Christmas with his father. Sounds so simple, but things are never straightforward when these two people are involved.
A nice riff on the holiday house party theme, with all the standard people involved. Redvers' dad is a nice guy, but his surprise fiancee Evelyn is a twice widowed woman with a mysterious background. The tension is supplied by Evelyn's engagement ring. It's a family heirloom, of course, one that came into the family with Redvers' late mother. Redvers' aunts are Not Happy about that at all. Nor is Redvers. There is a murder, of course, and lots of snow.
Some nice twists here. All in all not a bad way to pass and hour or two.
Jane, newly engaged to Redvers, is traveling with him to spend Christmas with his father. Sounds so simple, but things are never straightforward when these two people are involved.
A nice riff on the holiday house party theme, with all the standard people involved. Redvers' dad is a nice guy, but his surprise fiancee Evelyn is a twice widowed woman with a mysterious background. The tension is supplied by Evelyn's engagement ring. It's a family heirloom, of course, one that came into the family with Redvers' late mother. Redvers' aunts are Not Happy about that at all. Nor is Redvers. There is a murder, of course, and lots of snow.
Some nice twists here. All in all not a bad way to pass and hour or two.
March 27, 2024
This was a jam packed novella and honestly didn't feel all that much shorter than a full length novel. I loved it and all the intrigue and seeing Redvers' family. The aunts were such a hoot! And I just love Jane and Redvers together so very much in any capacity, but especially when they are snooping. I was shocked by the ending and all the twists and turns.
I love the audiobooks of this series!
I love the audiobooks of this series!
March 9, 2025
Good short story
October 16, 2025
Another Jane Wunderley mystery...
March 16, 2024
A twisty tale that keeps you guessing until the end. A lovely little story to tide us over until the new book arrives. I love these characters and it was fun to be with them again, even for a short time.
December 14, 2023
good read
I enjoyed this latest installment in the Jane Wunderly series. No exotic locale, this time. Jane and her fiancée travel to meet his father and become entwined in a murder.
I enjoyed this latest installment in the Jane Wunderly series. No exotic locale, this time. Jane and her fiancée travel to meet his father and become entwined in a murder.
January 7, 2024
2024 bk 2. What a fun, holiday romp of a mystery. Aunt Mille was herself, Jane has gained in personal strength and maturity, and we see Redver's weak side - but also his strength in the midst of family turmoil. I love Christmas Manor House mysteries and this one did not disappoint.
September 14, 2023
I received this book free in exchange for an honest review.
I really enjoyed this book. It was fun to read about Christmas with Redvers and Jane. The story was engaging had some unexpected twists, I was not expecting. As I read this book, I kept wishing that it was a full-length novel. I felt like I was missing out on some of the story because it was a novella. Overall, I enjoyed everything about this book. I am hoping for future books about Redvers and Jane.
I really enjoyed this book. It was fun to read about Christmas with Redvers and Jane. The story was engaging had some unexpected twists, I was not expecting. As I read this book, I kept wishing that it was a full-length novel. I felt like I was missing out on some of the story because it was a novella. Overall, I enjoyed everything about this book. I am hoping for future books about Redvers and Jane.
November 13, 2023
Jane and Redvers head to his childhood home to spend Christmas with his father. When they arrive they discover Redvers' father is engaged to be married on Christmas and are suspicious of the fiance. A fun and relatively low stakes adventure with a lovely ending.
December 13, 2023
⭐️⭐️⭐️
Met expectations as a fluffy murder mystery with an extremely thorough Christmas theme. Main characters are unaffected by murder/fear of death, which felt appropriate because I also did not care at all if they lived or died. Read this exclusively for festive vibes.
Met expectations as a fluffy murder mystery with an extremely thorough Christmas theme. Main characters are unaffected by murder/fear of death, which felt appropriate because I also did not care at all if they lived or died. Read this exclusively for festive vibes.
November 25, 2025
MY RATING GUIDE: A satisfied 3.5 Stars. MURDER UNDER THE MISTLETOE involved a lot of running around, horseback riding, slippery driving and chilly sleighing in the snow (romp adventure-like) as the main characters worked to solve the mystery. MUTM read quickly and, although not particularly complicated, entertained me fitting nicely between other titles & genres I read before the holidays.
1=DNF/What was that?; 2=Not for me; 3=Ok; 3.5=I ENJOYED THIS; 4=I really liked; 5=I really loved this! (5 is rare for me).
Barnard Castle, North Pennines, England, days before Christmas, 1926 ~
Intrepid American widow Jane Wunderly and her fiancé, gentleman Englishman Redvers (and occasional government ‘spy’) catch the train to N England’s Pennines region to visit Redvers father for Christmas. Jane hopes this visit might provide her with a deeper understanding of her fiancé by seeing how he interacts with his limited remaining family. Neither of them anticipated attending the Christmas wedding of Redvers’ father.
Comments ~
1) The Jane Wunderly Mysteries are Cozy Mysteries. Murder is afoot but everyone remains calm. ;) I love the artwork used on the book covers. It’s what first caught my attention with bk1. I read a spectrum of Mysteries. This series is toward the lighter end. I enjoy them as fun, Pick-Me-Up, Adventure-filled, Comfort reads. MURDER UNDER THE MISTLETOE is bk 4.5.
2) Due to secondary characters reappearing in successive title and the relationships continually developing over time, I recommend beginning with bk1 and reading them in order. This series enjoys a number of fabulous exotic destinations such as Egypt, an ocean cruise, Istanbul, Budapest, the Orient Express and India - these are my favorites. MURDER UNDER THE MISTLETOE provides a bit of background into MMC Redvers’ family.
2) MUTM, a novella, read very quickly in the style of a Cozy Mystery-Romp with more action than depth but still entertaining. A small Easter egg: MFC Jane mentions enjoying reading mysteries, specifically Agatha Christie & Dorothy Sayers, a number of books which would have been available in 1926; two authors I enjoy as well.
3) I detest books where the heroine behaves like a brainless twit. While I wondered about Jane’s behavior in the earlier books, I feel she is becoming less impulsive now, less inclined to make obvious missteps. I’ve always like MMC Redvers who apparently has an Intelligence background, certain experience and government people he can turn to for assistance (if necessary).
4) Neubauer is a fairly new-to-me author. This is the 5th book I’ve read of hers. I am enjoying each more than the previous one as the characters continue to grow and develop. I purchased the first 6 books during a audiobook sale and I am looking forward to listening to them. I alternately read and listened to the audiobook of MUTM. Sarah Zimmerman has performed each of the books so far, voicing the various characters expertly. Her male characters are believable and varied, and her accents good, as well.
5) Readers who enjoy the following may enjoy the Jane Wunderly series:
> Cozy Mysteries
> Female (partnered with SO) amateur sleuths
> 1920’s Light Fiction & Mysteries
> Miss Marple mysteries (and a tolerance for somewhat “busybody” heroines). More so in books 1 & 2, less in the following.
> Clean Fiction
> Pick Me Up Reads
> Novels with exotic settings
> Minimal angst, relationship drama, misunderstandings & miscommunication (short term, quickly resolved)
> Occasionally ‘Romp’ style adventures
READER CAUTIONS ~ This is a Clean read.
PROFANITY - None, I believe.
VIOLENCE - Nothing graphic. Cozy Mystery.
SEXUAL SITUATIONS - No. Closed door.
1=DNF/What was that?; 2=Not for me; 3=Ok; 3.5=I ENJOYED THIS; 4=I really liked; 5=I really loved this! (5 is rare for me).
Barnard Castle, North Pennines, England, days before Christmas, 1926 ~
Intrepid American widow Jane Wunderly and her fiancé, gentleman Englishman Redvers (and occasional government ‘spy’) catch the train to N England’s Pennines region to visit Redvers father for Christmas. Jane hopes this visit might provide her with a deeper understanding of her fiancé by seeing how he interacts with his limited remaining family. Neither of them anticipated attending the Christmas wedding of Redvers’ father.
Comments ~
1) The Jane Wunderly Mysteries are Cozy Mysteries. Murder is afoot but everyone remains calm. ;) I love the artwork used on the book covers. It’s what first caught my attention with bk1. I read a spectrum of Mysteries. This series is toward the lighter end. I enjoy them as fun, Pick-Me-Up, Adventure-filled, Comfort reads. MURDER UNDER THE MISTLETOE is bk 4.5.
2) Due to secondary characters reappearing in successive title and the relationships continually developing over time, I recommend beginning with bk1 and reading them in order. This series enjoys a number of fabulous exotic destinations such as Egypt, an ocean cruise, Istanbul, Budapest, the Orient Express and India - these are my favorites. MURDER UNDER THE MISTLETOE provides a bit of background into MMC Redvers’ family.
2) MUTM, a novella, read very quickly in the style of a Cozy Mystery-Romp with more action than depth but still entertaining. A small Easter egg: MFC Jane mentions enjoying reading mysteries, specifically Agatha Christie & Dorothy Sayers, a number of books which would have been available in 1926; two authors I enjoy as well.
3) I detest books where the heroine behaves like a brainless twit. While I wondered about Jane’s behavior in the earlier books, I feel she is becoming less impulsive now, less inclined to make obvious missteps. I’ve always like MMC Redvers who apparently has an Intelligence background, certain experience and government people he can turn to for assistance (if necessary).
4) Neubauer is a fairly new-to-me author. This is the 5th book I’ve read of hers. I am enjoying each more than the previous one as the characters continue to grow and develop. I purchased the first 6 books during a audiobook sale and I am looking forward to listening to them. I alternately read and listened to the audiobook of MUTM. Sarah Zimmerman has performed each of the books so far, voicing the various characters expertly. Her male characters are believable and varied, and her accents good, as well.
5) Readers who enjoy the following may enjoy the Jane Wunderly series:
> Cozy Mysteries
> Female (partnered with SO) amateur sleuths
> 1920’s Light Fiction & Mysteries
> Miss Marple mysteries (and a tolerance for somewhat “busybody” heroines). More so in books 1 & 2, less in the following.
> Clean Fiction
> Pick Me Up Reads
> Novels with exotic settings
> Minimal angst, relationship drama, misunderstandings & miscommunication (short term, quickly resolved)
> Occasionally ‘Romp’ style adventures
READER CAUTIONS ~ This is a Clean read.
PROFANITY - None, I believe.
VIOLENCE - Nothing graphic. Cozy Mystery.
SEXUAL SITUATIONS - No. Closed door.
November 24, 2025
I enjoyed this holiday mystery and will consider starting the series from the beginning. Jane joins her new fiancé, Redvers, at his family home for the holidays. At the country house in England, they are dismayed to learn that Redvers's father is not only also engage but he plans to get married on Christmas Day! Not knowing much about Evelyn, Jane and Redvers try to get to know her and are concerned that her previous two husbands died under suspicious circumstances. As soon as they start asking questions, however, the town doctor dies from mistletoe poisoning. Redvers and his two spy aunts are concerned that a family ring, that Redvers had hoped to give to Jane, was instead at the jeweler being sized for Evelyn. When a brother that no one knew that Evelyn had showed up unexpectedly, they have even more questions, especially when the pair disappear the night before the wedding. Jane and Redvers find Evelyn tied up in the attic and her brother missing. He isn't actually her brother but her husband who has forced her to marry wealthy men who are older so that she can inherit when they die. They agree that it is best if Evelyn leave town and she goes with the family heirloom on her finger. So Jane is confused when Redvers presents her with the same ring only hours later. Redvers had the jeweler make a paste replica, which is the ring that Evelyn received. And the wedding preparations are not put to waste as Jane's Aunt Millie marries her fiancé that day instead.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 14, 2023
It’s December of 1926, and Jane Wunderly is accompanying her fiancé, Redvers, to his home in a small English village to meet his father. The two men have grown apart, so it is news to Redvers that his father is also engaged and planning to wed on Christmas morning. However, this bride-to-be is twice widowed and rumor has it that her previous husbands didn’t die of natural causes. Then an attack is followed up by a suspicious death at a Christmas party. Can Jane and Redvers figure out what is happening?
When I learned that we were getting a between the books novella this Christmas, I had to read it. And I enjoyed it. We see a couple supporting characters in addition to Jane and Redvers. Plus, the new characters are great. The plot kept me guessing, even when I thought I had a handle on what was going on. While not all the Christmas traditions are the same, it still felt familiar enough that I enjoyed the dose of Christmas spirit in December. Whether you already like this series or are looking for a quick Christmas read, you’ll be glad you picked up this ebook only novella.
Read my full review at Carstairs Considers.
When I learned that we were getting a between the books novella this Christmas, I had to read it. And I enjoyed it. We see a couple supporting characters in addition to Jane and Redvers. Plus, the new characters are great. The plot kept me guessing, even when I thought I had a handle on what was going on. While not all the Christmas traditions are the same, it still felt familiar enough that I enjoyed the dose of Christmas spirit in December. Whether you already like this series or are looking for a quick Christmas read, you’ll be glad you picked up this ebook only novella.
Read my full review at Carstairs Considers.
December 25, 2023
MURDER UNDER THE MISTLETOE by Erica Ruth Neubauer
The Fourth and a Half Jane Wunderly Mystery
It's Christmastime and Redvers has decided to bring his fiance, Jane, to his ancestral home to meet his father. While Jane is well aware the two aren't close, the couple are surprised to learn that his father is engaged and plans to wed the widow Evelyn on Christmas Day. Evelyn runs hot and cold, but there's no mistake that Redvers' aunts dislike the woman. The aunts also intimate that the deaths of the widow's previous two husbands may not have been entirely natural. After Jane and Redvers start asking questions an accident occurs followed by a murder. Coincidence? The couple must get to the truth to save Redvers' father and possibly their own future wedding.
It's always a challenge meeting the family of your significant other, especially when your fiance isn't close to his father, there's a surprise woman in the wings, and energetic aunts are nearby. I loved the glimpses we got of Redvers childhood and the boy he once was. I absolutely adore Redvers' aunts and hope we get to see more of them. I also love how they mesh with Aunt Millie!
I love everything about the Jane Wunderly Mystery series and this Christmas novella is the sprig of holly on the plum pudding! It's delightful in every way. The relationship, dare I say partnership, between Jane and Redvers is wonderful and I enjoy the manner in which they work together.
MURDER UNDER THE MISTLETOE is a delightful holiday novella featuring a house full of relatives, surprises, and Christmas cheer.
The Fourth and a Half Jane Wunderly Mystery
It's Christmastime and Redvers has decided to bring his fiance, Jane, to his ancestral home to meet his father. While Jane is well aware the two aren't close, the couple are surprised to learn that his father is engaged and plans to wed the widow Evelyn on Christmas Day. Evelyn runs hot and cold, but there's no mistake that Redvers' aunts dislike the woman. The aunts also intimate that the deaths of the widow's previous two husbands may not have been entirely natural. After Jane and Redvers start asking questions an accident occurs followed by a murder. Coincidence? The couple must get to the truth to save Redvers' father and possibly their own future wedding.
It's always a challenge meeting the family of your significant other, especially when your fiance isn't close to his father, there's a surprise woman in the wings, and energetic aunts are nearby. I loved the glimpses we got of Redvers childhood and the boy he once was. I absolutely adore Redvers' aunts and hope we get to see more of them. I also love how they mesh with Aunt Millie!
I love everything about the Jane Wunderly Mystery series and this Christmas novella is the sprig of holly on the plum pudding! It's delightful in every way. The relationship, dare I say partnership, between Jane and Redvers is wonderful and I enjoy the manner in which they work together.
MURDER UNDER THE MISTLETOE is a delightful holiday novella featuring a house full of relatives, surprises, and Christmas cheer.
January 26, 2024
I want to thank Erica Ruth Neubauer, author and Goodread First Reads Giveaway for the eBook Kindle copy of Murder Under the Mistletoe ~ Jane Wunderly Mysteries ~ Book 4.5 that I won in the giveaway.
In Northern England, in 1926 Jane and her financé went the Barnard Castle, a small Englis village to spend Christmas with Redvers's father. It started with his father being ready to marry two days later to a widow with two dead husbands and lots of rumors about her. Sleigh accidents, a cheafer's bash on the head, strange behavior, a surprise brother of the bride showing up in the last few days lead to a twisted plot full of suspense and a few surprises at the conclusion. Add a cancelled wedding and an unexpected one taking its place and a surprise engagement ring too for a happy ending. Oh, yes and the villian was caught and turned in to the police too. Great plot, characters and loved it.
In Northern England, in 1926 Jane and her financé went the Barnard Castle, a small Englis village to spend Christmas with Redvers's father. It started with his father being ready to marry two days later to a widow with two dead husbands and lots of rumors about her. Sleigh accidents, a cheafer's bash on the head, strange behavior, a surprise brother of the bride showing up in the last few days lead to a twisted plot full of suspense and a few surprises at the conclusion. Add a cancelled wedding and an unexpected one taking its place and a surprise engagement ring too for a happy ending. Oh, yes and the villian was caught and turned in to the police too. Great plot, characters and loved it.
October 12, 2023
I love these characters. This was a fun Christmas story. I knew who the murderer was but I didn't know why or how. That was a little bit of a twist for me. Jane and Redvers are engaged to be married but nothing has been settled as to the future date. Christmas time is always a great time to be gifted an engagement ring. But...there is a hitch to Redvers plans. He and Jane are caught by surprise when they discover that Redvers father is also engaged to me married and will marry on Christmas day. The bride is surrounded by rumors and innuendo. Jane and Redvers want to make sure that the rumored problems don't happen to Redvers father or he could end up dead. The first two books in the series have been my favorite. That might be because of the developing romance between Jane and Redvers. I hope that the enjoyment can be sustained with them as a married couple.
December 30, 2023
What a wonderful short story and great addition to the Jane Wunderly series! The pacing was perfect and the mystery was engaging. I really like that with each book Redvers and Jane are solving the mystery together and sharing their observations and findings with one another more. Jane and Redvers make a wonderful pair. I also loved that Millie and Lord Hughes make an appearance in this novella and the dynamic between Millie and Redvers’ vivacious aunts, Carolyn and Marie, was just amazing! I need to see Redvers’ aunts make an appearance in future books. While I wasn’t shocked by who the killer was, the twist was surprising. The ending also left me with a huge smile on my face. Perfect novella for the holidays regardless of if you have read the other books in the series!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 113 reviews