A review by the_sassy_bookworm
Murder at a Scottish Christmas by Traci Hall

emotional funny informative inspiring lighthearted mysterious medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.5

Book Review: Murder at a Scottish Christmas by Traci Hall

Rating: 3.5 Stars

So, I just finished Murder at a Scottish Christmas, the sixth book in Traci Hall’s delightful Scottish Shire Mystery series, and it was quite the cozy and festive treat! This book, set in the picturesque seaside village of Nairn, really captures the essence of the season. It’s got all the festive vibes you could ask for and even more!

Summary

In this installment, we follow Paislee Shaw, a sweater shop owner and knitting enthusiast, as she prepares to ring in the New Year. She’s got her hands full with plans for a holiday feast for her twelve-year-old son Brody, her grandpa, and their adorable black Scottish terrier, Wallace. The vibe is all about warmth and togetherness—until things take a dark turn. During the Hogmanay celebrations, with fireworks lighting up the sky, a shot rings out, leaving everyone in shock. McCormac, Amelia's brother, becomes the target in this deadly game of mystery. As chaos unfolds, Paislee takes it upon herself to help Detective Inspector Zeffer crack the case, even though it might put her own life at risk.

My Thoughts

First off, can we talk about how cute and festive the cover is? It totally sets the mood for a cozy mystery! I really enjoyed how Hall captured the small village charm of Nairn. It made me wish I could just pop over there for a Sip and Stitch event myself! The characters are just wonderful; they embody that Scottish pride and community spirit that makes you want to be part of their lives. I’ve grown quite fond of Paislee, her son Brody, grandpa Angus, and of course, Wallace. 

The mystery itself was engaging and well plotted. There were enough twists and turns to keep me guessing right up to the very end. I loved that it wasn’t just about solving a crime; it was also about friendships and community bonds that made it all the more enjoyable. And speaking of enjoyment, I wouldn't mind seeing a little romance blossom between Paislee and Zeffer—just saying!

Overall, I’d definitely recommend Murder at a Scottish Christmas to all my cozy mystery-loving friends. It’s a lovely mix of festive cheer, intriguing mystery, and charming characters that make it worth picking up this holiday season. I’d give it a solid 3.5 stars! 🎄🧶✨

⚠️This review was written based on personal opinions and experiences with the book. Individual preferences may vary⚠️