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3.6 AVERAGE
3.6 AVERAGE
An epistolary novel composed of emails and other communications between members of a community theater troupe, ostensibly compiled to investigate a murder. Janice Hallett confounds me because somehow her books are always they're weirdly page turning yet very badly constructed. This is one of the most effective because it leans more into being funny and satirical, rather than trying to be too serious.
funny
lighthearted
mysterious
fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
No
Loveable characters:
No
Diverse cast of characters:
No
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
A holiday read packed with the same small-town pettiness that made The Appeal so memorable and fun. The epistolary nature of the novel makes it a quick read. However, I found the mystery to be less exciting, the twists to be less interesting, and the stakes to be much lower. More enjoyable than not, but definitely as good as the original.
lighthearted
mysterious
fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Plot
Strong character development:
No
Loveable characters:
No
Diverse cast of characters:
No
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
Content Warnings
Moderate: Death, Drug use
Minor: Alcoholism, Domestic abuse
This cleverly constructed holiday farce, told through texts other electronic communications, doesn't exactly embody the Christmas spirit but might appeal to readers who are not fond of the holiday's excesses and who enjoy the squabbles of a snooty small community. (Knowledge of the characters in the author's previous Fairway Players novel, The Appeal, is not necessary but likely enhances the story.)
The mystery bit feels condensed to the back half and I think I would have been invested more if it started earlier.
lighthearted
mysterious
fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Plot
Strong character development:
No
Loveable characters:
Complicated
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
No
lighthearted
mysterious
fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
No
Loveable characters:
No
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
A quick, easy to read christmassy who-dun-it that I thoroughly enjoyed! It was straight to the point and an exciting read that made you feel as if you were right at the front of the theatre production watching the mystery unfold. There were quite a few twists and turns to keep the reader at the edge of your seat & I absolutely adore the format of the book. May not be for everyone but it added to the pace and made it a fun & different type of book to pick up! Would definitely recommend
mysterious
fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Plot
Strong character development:
No
Loveable characters:
Complicated
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Complicated
funny
lighthearted
mysterious
fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Plot
Strong character development:
No
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
No
Flaws of characters a main focus:
No