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kayshiddenshelf's review against another edition
4.0
4/5 Stars
I received an eARC from the author in exchange for an honest review.
Charming, mysterious, and full of wonder. Death of a Christmas Tree Salesman captures the Christmas spirit with a dash of murder.
Throughout the story we follow Sam Shovel, a snowman living in the North Pole. Coming to life for twelve days every year at Christmastime, Sam’s memory can be a little slushy on his previous lives. This year however, he’s been tasked with solving the murder of O. Tannenbaum, the world’s largest Christmas tree supplier.
Following Sam on his investigative efforts was an absolute delight. I found his character to be endearing, and even though he only has twelve days to solve the case he’s given satisfying developments. The side cast was also diverse and added great intrigue to the mystery. Even the interactions between characters throughout were thoughtfully done, creating slice of life moments and suspense.
From the moment Sam comes to life, we’re met with a plethora of Christmas references, histories, traditions, and foods. Some familiar and others new, this helped me get in the Christmas mood and often made me nostalgic. There were even some Christmas recipes from the book included at the end for holiday baking.
Now, something that surprised me was the balance of magical wonder and suspicion. Having never read a cozy murder mystery before, I wasn’t sure how well the two would mix for me. Especially with a Christmas theme, often related to a joyous time of year. However, I’m pleased to say Patricia Meredith balanced it well and didn’t skimp on a compelling mystery for the sake of a cozy read.
This is filled with sugar plum fairies, cookies, snowy forests, candy canes, and a variety of Santa’s from various traditions around the world.
If you’re looking for a cozy read with fun characters and a murder to solve for the holiday season, this is definitely one out.
Merged review:
4/5 Stars
I received an eARC from the author in exchange for an honest review.
Charming, mysterious, and full of wonder. Death of a Christmas Tree Salesman captures the Christmas spirit with a dash of murder.
Throughout the story we follow Sam Shovel, a snowman living in the North Pole. Coming to life for twelve days every year at Christmastime, Sam’s memory can be a little slushy on his previous lives. This year however, he’s been tasked with solving the murder of O. Tannenbaum, the world’s largest Christmas tree supplier.
Following Sam on his investigative efforts was an absolute delight. I found his character to be endearing, and even though he only has twelve days to solve the case he’s given satisfying developments. The side cast was also diverse and added great intrigue to the mystery. Even the interactions between characters throughout were thoughtfully done, creating slice of life moments and suspense.
From the moment Sam comes to life, we’re met with a plethora of Christmas references, histories, traditions, and foods. Some familiar and others new, this helped me get in the Christmas mood and often made me nostalgic. There were even some Christmas recipes from the book included at the end for holiday baking.
Now, something that surprised me was the balance of magical wonder and suspicion. Having never read a cozy murder mystery before, I wasn’t sure how well the two would mix for me. Especially with a Christmas theme, often related to a joyous time of year. However, I’m pleased to say Patricia Meredith balanced it well and didn’t skimp on a compelling mystery for the sake of a cozy read.
This is filled with sugar plum fairies, cookies, snowy forests, candy canes, and a variety of Santa’s from various traditions around the world.
If you’re looking for a cozy read with fun characters and a murder to solve for the holiday season, this is definitely one out.
I received an eARC from the author in exchange for an honest review.
Charming, mysterious, and full of wonder. Death of a Christmas Tree Salesman captures the Christmas spirit with a dash of murder.
Throughout the story we follow Sam Shovel, a snowman living in the North Pole. Coming to life for twelve days every year at Christmastime, Sam’s memory can be a little slushy on his previous lives. This year however, he’s been tasked with solving the murder of O. Tannenbaum, the world’s largest Christmas tree supplier.
Following Sam on his investigative efforts was an absolute delight. I found his character to be endearing, and even though he only has twelve days to solve the case he’s given satisfying developments. The side cast was also diverse and added great intrigue to the mystery. Even the interactions between characters throughout were thoughtfully done, creating slice of life moments and suspense.
From the moment Sam comes to life, we’re met with a plethora of Christmas references, histories, traditions, and foods. Some familiar and others new, this helped me get in the Christmas mood and often made me nostalgic. There were even some Christmas recipes from the book included at the end for holiday baking.
Now, something that surprised me was the balance of magical wonder and suspicion. Having never read a cozy murder mystery before, I wasn’t sure how well the two would mix for me. Especially with a Christmas theme, often related to a joyous time of year. However, I’m pleased to say Patricia Meredith balanced it well and didn’t skimp on a compelling mystery for the sake of a cozy read.
This is filled with sugar plum fairies, cookies, snowy forests, candy canes, and a variety of Santa’s from various traditions around the world.
If you’re looking for a cozy read with fun characters and a murder to solve for the holiday season, this is definitely one out.
Merged review:
4/5 Stars
I received an eARC from the author in exchange for an honest review.
Charming, mysterious, and full of wonder. Death of a Christmas Tree Salesman captures the Christmas spirit with a dash of murder.
Throughout the story we follow Sam Shovel, a snowman living in the North Pole. Coming to life for twelve days every year at Christmastime, Sam’s memory can be a little slushy on his previous lives. This year however, he’s been tasked with solving the murder of O. Tannenbaum, the world’s largest Christmas tree supplier.
Following Sam on his investigative efforts was an absolute delight. I found his character to be endearing, and even though he only has twelve days to solve the case he’s given satisfying developments. The side cast was also diverse and added great intrigue to the mystery. Even the interactions between characters throughout were thoughtfully done, creating slice of life moments and suspense.
From the moment Sam comes to life, we’re met with a plethora of Christmas references, histories, traditions, and foods. Some familiar and others new, this helped me get in the Christmas mood and often made me nostalgic. There were even some Christmas recipes from the book included at the end for holiday baking.
Now, something that surprised me was the balance of magical wonder and suspicion. Having never read a cozy murder mystery before, I wasn’t sure how well the two would mix for me. Especially with a Christmas theme, often related to a joyous time of year. However, I’m pleased to say Patricia Meredith balanced it well and didn’t skimp on a compelling mystery for the sake of a cozy read.
This is filled with sugar plum fairies, cookies, snowy forests, candy canes, and a variety of Santa’s from various traditions around the world.
If you’re looking for a cozy read with fun characters and a murder to solve for the holiday season, this is definitely one out.
wouterk's review against another edition
4.0
What a delicious, wonderful, scrumptuous story. As we follow snowman Sam Shovel in sloving the murder of the Christmas Tree Salesman we get a deep dive into all kinds of christmas traditions. We meet many wonderful figures from the lore surrounding the christmas days from many different cultures. And we are swept away with an avalanche of Christmas puns and references to christmas movies and songs.
It's an easy cosy read that evokes many of the warm feelings of christmas, while at the same time providing you with a fun puzzle, that can be solved before the reveal. And it's so humorous, I kept giggling and laughing.
Now I still have to playfully address a few minor historical inaccuracies (one minor, one bigger). To be clear, I highly respect the amount of research Meredith has clearly done for such a short novel, so no gripes here at all. Furthermore, what I'm addressing does not detract from the story at all, but well, something about feeling the compulsive duty to always correct misinformation for whoever is interested.
First, the minor thing I have to correct, being a Dutch person myself, is that at no point do we set out the 'pepernoten' for 'Sinterklaas'. His Piets and himself give them to the children (at a series of occasions really). We just provide fruit or vegetables and some water for his horse.
Second, more cultural appropriationately (read with playful smirk tone), like many contemporary media this book positions Christmas and santa as being an American thing that then spread around the world, so there had to be all kinds of local helper santa's to be hired. And it is a common story beat. Brilliant Americans create a commercial success and the rest of the world adores it. However, let's be fair. It is the other way around.
The US is a country founded by Europeans. Historical evidence points in the direction that Sinterklaas as a figure was explicitly imported to the US and the his characteristics were mixed with the British Father Christmas. Then the elves were added from Scandinavian folklore and Mrs. Claus was added locally (at least that's what my small deep dive brought up). It's not American export, it's import from Europe, where many of these traditions existed before the US existed. Anyway, it by no means affects the story, which is wonderful. And I believe Meredith is clearly aware of connections but als seperateness between all these traditions, so it is probably as much a device to make the story work than meant as historically accurate. Still let's not pretend that the US is the center of the universe in everything.
With that historical rant being over. Do read this book. It is so much fun!
It's an easy cosy read that evokes many of the warm feelings of christmas, while at the same time providing you with a fun puzzle, that can be solved before the reveal. And it's so humorous, I kept giggling and laughing.
Now I still have to playfully address a few minor historical inaccuracies (one minor, one bigger). To be clear, I highly respect the amount of research Meredith has clearly done for such a short novel, so no gripes here at all. Furthermore, what I'm addressing does not detract from the story at all, but well, something about feeling the compulsive duty to always correct misinformation for whoever is interested.
First, the minor thing I have to correct, being a Dutch person myself, is that at no point do we set out the 'pepernoten' for 'Sinterklaas'. His Piets and himself give them to the children (at a series of occasions really). We just provide fruit or vegetables and some water for his horse.
Second, more cultural appropriationately (read with playful smirk tone), like many contemporary media this book positions Christmas and santa as being an American thing that then spread around the world, so there had to be all kinds of local helper santa's to be hired. And it is a common story beat. Brilliant Americans create a commercial success and the rest of the world adores it. However, let's be fair. It is the other way around.
The US is a country founded by Europeans. Historical evidence points in the direction that Sinterklaas as a figure was explicitly imported to the US and the his characteristics were mixed with the British Father Christmas. Then the elves were added from Scandinavian folklore and Mrs. Claus was added locally (at least that's what my small deep dive brought up). It's not American export, it's import from Europe, where many of these traditions existed before the US existed. Anyway, it by no means affects the story, which is wonderful. And I believe Meredith is clearly aware of connections but als seperateness between all these traditions, so it is probably as much a device to make the story work than meant as historically accurate. Still let's not pretend that the US is the center of the universe in everything.
With that historical rant being over. Do read this book. It is so much fun!
cyriax's review
adventurous
funny
hopeful
lighthearted
mysterious
relaxing
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
4.0
This was a fun, lighthearted, enjoyable read. There were several references to films and books throughout this novel that were fun to discover. The characters were imaginative, fun, and obviously well thought out with a little more depth than you might expect from a fun romp. I also love the fact the the author included recipes at the end of the novel. I may need to try those at Christmas time this year.
joshuawalkerauthor's review
4.0
This was a fantastic Christmas-themed murder mystery with a tonne of charm, tidbits about Christmas traditions and history, and just an overall cosy vibe which suited reading sessions over the holidays perfectly. Patricia Meredith has the perfect kind of punchy prose needed for crime writing, and reminds me a little of PD James, my favourite female crime writer. Highly recommend!
lezlie's review
adventurous
funny
mysterious
fast-paced
4.0
When I saw some of my friends review the ARC for this one, I immediately placed a preorder for a copy on my Kindle to read over the Christmas season. I have so many wonderful reviews for this author and thought this would be a great place to start reading her work.
When Audible had a half off sale in December, I checked to see if there was an audiobook for this one and to my delight there was, it was included in the sale AND it was narrated by Andrew D. Meredith!
I decided to save this story to listen to with my husband as we traveled to be with his family for Christmas. I had a feeling that we would both enjoy it and since it's labeled as "A Sam Shovel Mystery" - that indicated there would be more, which means a start of a new fun holiday tradition for us.
This story was so cute! We laughed so much at all of the puns and jokes. I love how Patricia Meredith included all of the different Santas from all over the world, teaching us what other countries call their Santa and some of the customs and traditions of how they celebrate. It was so clever how she worked out the way the Santas delivered Christmas gifts!
The general premise of this delightful story is Sam Shovel, a Snowman who only comes alive each year for the 12 days of Christmas, is trying to solve the mystery of who murdered O Tannebaum before he melts...or the killer strikes again. With Christmas Day fast approaching, the North Pole is a flurry of activity...and full of suspects! Sam takes us with him as he glides around the North Pole chasing clues and rekindling friendships from Christmases past.
As much as I enjoyed the detecting duo that is Sam and Curtis, Franklin the turkey really stole the show for me. I made my husband rewind his chapter TWICE because I was crying laughing. Honestly though, part of the magic of this story is the narration provided by the author's husband, Andrew. Not only did he breathe life into Sam Shovel, he brought the whole North Pole with him! The audiobook is my preferred choice for this one. ALL of these characters were given a unique voice, complete with accent for each country's Santa. His Franklin voice - I mean, he literally sounded like he was on the verge of gobbling with every syllable - was just hilarious. (My cheeks are hurting as I type this because I'm grinning and chuckling while writing this whole thing!)
I believe the narrator was able to give this story and its (mostly) endearing cast of characters so much life because of how well written they are. The very first chapter, I learned Sam Shovel was only alive during the 12 days of Christmas - so I knew he was going to melt at the end. It was inevitable. I still freaking cried when he was melting!! That was rough...maybe future installments we can just fade to black before that part. LOL.
I highly recommend this fun, holiday story to readers who enjoy cozy mysteries or just looking for a fun read during the Christmas season. I'm already looking forward to listening to it again next December and will be keeping my fingers crossed there's a new one to add to the list too!
You can find this review along with other reviews spanning multiple genres at The Nerdy Narrative or if you prefer video format, I do have a BookTube Channel
A heartfelt thanks to my Patrons on Patreon for their support towards my enthusiasm for reading and reviewing!
Special thanks to my highest level Patrons: Ev, Sharon, Andrew, Star, Amanda L., Kate, Gail, Amanda F., Lourdes, Tara, John, Sharon A-B, Ann, Chad K., Ashley E., & Jennifer M.
analicia_simar's review
funny
lighthearted
mysterious
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Loveable characters? Yes
4.5
This little book is a Christmas delight. It's a mystery wrapped in the history of Christmas wrapped in modern and historical references wrapped in a platter of Christmas cookies--sprinkled with cinnamon and even more Christmas cheer. I can see myself rereading this for many Christmas seasons to come.
If you can get your hands on the audio, I highly recommend listening to this charming book. Patricia's husband narrates the audiobook, and his accents and voices are so much fun.
If you can get your hands on the audio, I highly recommend listening to this charming book. Patricia's husband narrates the audiobook, and his accents and voices are so much fun.
connorjdaley's review
adventurous
mysterious
medium-paced
5.0
I absolutely love the title. It might be a top three book title ever. And the red of the cover is great too, so I knew I needed to read it right away this holiday season.
I read this across day 4 and 5 of Covid, in a kind of semi-fugue state, and I think it kind of struck me that the author must have been in something similar to have thought this sucker up…
…joking aside, this is an incredibly clever idea that’s whimsical, fantastical, and original.
It has so many references that I was constantly highlighting and rereading snippets. Perhaps you’ll understand the one below, which was my favorite: “…loose newell post, or cleaning up after the fried cat under the armchair in the lobby, or fixing the furnace, or...” it was like reading one giant Christmas reference and I absolutely loved it. It made the North Pole seem like fantasy, but with references to known culture, pulling it back down towards magical realism at the same time.
With that said, this is a murder mystery! Sam Shovel is a snowman that comes to life every year for the twelve days of Christmas at the North Pole. Not only does he have a knack for detecting, but his corncob pipe biting, fedora wearing antics felt very noir crime novel without his personality being the usual grit.
The author’s knowledge of Christmas, and the actual past history of it, is clearly on display through various characters and traditions. And it was so interesting to see the murder mystery (the murder of O. Tannenbaum) intertwine with them.
The character’s names, all references of their own, should honestly earn the author some kind of award. The book is silly but serious the entire time, and I laughed more than once.
I’m really not sure how, but this is somehow like a warm blanket, a cup of warm coco, and a hug. All while investigating murder. It’s cozy, and feels kind of safe even though it’s mysterious at the same time. It also didn’t read as ‘cozy’ in the kind of corny sense that has begun to be associated with the term. I cannot stress enough how enjoyable this was. Personally a 5/5*. This is a first for me from the author, but with a Hercule Poirot reference, it certainly won’t be the last.
I read this across day 4 and 5 of Covid, in a kind of semi-fugue state, and I think it kind of struck me that the author must have been in something similar to have thought this sucker up…
…joking aside, this is an incredibly clever idea that’s whimsical, fantastical, and original.
It has so many references that I was constantly highlighting and rereading snippets. Perhaps you’ll understand the one below, which was my favorite: “…loose newell post, or cleaning up after the fried cat under the armchair in the lobby, or fixing the furnace, or...” it was like reading one giant Christmas reference and I absolutely loved it. It made the North Pole seem like fantasy, but with references to known culture, pulling it back down towards magical realism at the same time.
With that said, this is a murder mystery! Sam Shovel is a snowman that comes to life every year for the twelve days of Christmas at the North Pole. Not only does he have a knack for detecting, but his corncob pipe biting, fedora wearing antics felt very noir crime novel without his personality being the usual grit.
The author’s knowledge of Christmas, and the actual past history of it, is clearly on display through various characters and traditions. And it was so interesting to see the murder mystery (the murder of O. Tannenbaum) intertwine with them.
The character’s names, all references of their own, should honestly earn the author some kind of award. The book is silly but serious the entire time, and I laughed more than once.
I’m really not sure how, but this is somehow like a warm blanket, a cup of warm coco, and a hug. All while investigating murder. It’s cozy, and feels kind of safe even though it’s mysterious at the same time. It also didn’t read as ‘cozy’ in the kind of corny sense that has begun to be associated with the term. I cannot stress enough how enjoyable this was. Personally a 5/5*. This is a first for me from the author, but with a Hercule Poirot reference, it certainly won’t be the last.
fantasyfairy's review
funny
lighthearted
mysterious
fast-paced
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
4.0
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