‘Tis the season for hot chocolate and mouthwatering treats. But sometimes too much of a good thing can be downright deadly . . . CHRISTMAS COCOA MURDER by CARLENE O’CONNOR Siobhán O’Sullivan’s hopes for a quiet Irish Christmas are dashed when the local Santa turns up dead in a carnival dunk tank of hot cocoa. Now instead of hunting down holiday gifts, she’s pursuing a heartless killer. Seems … she’s pursuing a heartless killer. Seems the dead Santa was no angel either, stealing neighborhood dogs to guide his sleigh. But was it his holiday antics—or worse—that led to his death by chocolate?
CHRISTMAS COCOA AND A CORPSE by MADDIE DAY
When local businessman Jed Greenberg is found dead with a Chocolate lab whimpering over his body, the police start sniffing around Robbie Jordan’s country restaurant for answers. Was it something in Robbie’s hot cocoa that killed Jed, or was it Cocoa the dog? As the suspects pile as high as her holiday tree, Robbie attempts to get to the bottom of the sickly-sweet murder . . .
DEATH BY HOT COCOA by Alex Erickson
A Christmas-themed escape game seems like the perfect pre-holiday treat for bookstore café owner Krissy Hancock and her best friend. But when the host is found dead in a pool of hot cocoa, it’s up to Krissy and her team to catch the killer—or escape before getting killed.
There’s nothing like a hot cup of murder to warm up the holiday season!
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Kensington has released another Christmas novella collection, this time featuring three authors that haven’t been featured before. All three stories feature hot cocoa is some capacity. Up first is “Christmas Cocoa Murder” by Carlene O’Connor, which takes place in an Irish village leading up to Christmas. Her series main character, Siobhan O’Sullivan, is just a couple of weeks away from joining the police force, but she gets pulled in early when the village’s Santa’s stunt at the annual panto goes horribly wrong and he’s found floating in a dunk tank filled with hot cocoa. Next, we get “Christmas Cocoa and a Corpse” by Maddie Day. Robbie Jordan, the star of the Country Store Mysteries, is looking forward to a quiet Christmas, but first she must figure out what happened to Jed Greenburg who was found dead while out walking a dog and drinking some of Robbie’s special hot chocolate mix. Finally, comes “Death by Hot Cocoa” by Alex Erickson. Krissy Hancock, his main character, has been talked into doing a Christmas themed escape room, but when she and the rest of the participants finish the first part, they find themselves locked in a second room with the body of their host next to a puddle of hot chocolate.
All three of these stories are fun. The only series I read regularly is Maddie Day’s, but that didn’t keep me from enjoying all of them. The plots are all wonderfully constructed and perfect for the shorter novella format. I did feel a little lost with some of the series regular characters in the first story, but that’s to be expected since I haven’t read the series before. However, it didn’t hamper my overall enjoyment at all. The main characters all come to life in the stories, and the suspects are just as vivid. Each story is filled with Christmas detail that will put you in the holiday spirit no matter what time of year you read them. A couple of the stories even feature some recipes, including two different versions of hot chocolate. So, make yourself a cup of hot chocolate (or maybe not given the theme of this book) and snuggle up and enjoy.
Three delightful Christmas themed stories. The first story, Christmas Cocoa Murder by Carlene O’Connor is set in Ireland. It was well written and full of humor. I really liked the main character, Siobhán. She’s smart, easy to relate to, and I enjoyed getting to know her and her siblings. The mystery was solid and interesting enough for me to keep reading until the end. The second story, Christmas Cocoa and a Corpse by Maddie Day is set in the wonderful fictional town of South Lick, Indiana. This is one of my favorite cozy mystery series and my favorite of the three stories. The writing is excellent and the plot is perfectly paced. I enjoyed getting to know Robbie’s boyfriend, Abe’s family a bit more and their adorable puppy, Cocoa. This was a great addition to the country store mysteries. The third story, Death by Hot Cocoa by Alex Erickson is set in a Christmas themed escape room. I loved this story. It reminded me of a horror movie. It was fast-paced, and I had a lot of fun reading it. I recommend these stories to anyone looking for an enjoyable Christmas themed cozy. Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for this ARC. The opinions expressed are my own.
I enjoyed this book so much! There are three stories in the book. The first story, Christmas Cocoa Murder, is set in Ireland. The words aren’t spelled incorrectly. I had no trouble with reading it but I grew up hearing, and using, most of the words. I thought the plot was original and entertaining. I love the nutcracker event. Their is a tasty cocoa recipe at the end of this book.
The second story, Christmas Cocoa and a Corpse was written by an author I enjoy, (the other two were new for me). I adore that a puppy named Cocoa was a part of this story. I quickly became engrossed in the mystery. There were also recipes after this story, including an interesting one for oatmeal, (which I happen to love so I can’t wait to try this recipe).
The third story, Death by Hot Cocoa, takes place at an Escape Room event. I was so excited to see that. I want to try one of those, but without a body. The mystery was fun.
I was looking forward to this book, and happily, it was everything I hoped it would be. Every story engaged me. I had an excellent time reading it. I recommend this book to cozy mystery lovers especially those who enjoy a Christmas theme.
I won a signed copy of an arc of this book in a Giveaway. No review was required. Thank you Kensington Publishers and Maddie Day for the giveaway.
Overall I enjoyed these stories. The first one by Carlene O’Connor takes place in Ireland and involves dueling Santas. I had not read this author before but now I shall be going back to read her series. I loved the characters and the mystery was good. The second one by Maddie Day is a series I am very familiar with. I always enjoy a visit to South Lick, Indiana. The characters and the restaurant are always fun but the mystery could have been stronger. Since it was a short story I wish more time was spent on the mystery than descriptions of clothing. The third story was a locked room mystery and the weakest of the three. Unlike some other Holiday collections I have read I was pleased that all three were mysteries. Enjoy these Christmas Cozies
Christmas Cocoa Murder is a trilogy of novellas with the holiday theme of hot cocoa tying them all together. I always, always love these holiday books. I have never been disappointed, and that lucky streak continues with this book.
The first, Christmas Cocoa Murder by Carlene O’Connor, is excellent. I have been a fan of Ms. O’Connors for a while now and have enjoyed and read her series set in a small rural villiage in Ireland focussing on the funny, strong, intelligent, and fiesty female sleuth Siobhan. This did not disappoint. It was a great addition to her series and I LOVED the ending….I cannot wait until the next installment!
Next, was Christmas Cocoa and a Corpse by Maddie Day. I have not had the privilege of reading any of her novels as of yet, but yoi can bet I will now. I loved the theme and the concept of the Country Store Mysteries series and enjoyed the main female character Robbie. I enjoyed the full cast of characters and want to read all of the books leading up to this moment. I was easily able to follow along despite this being my first experience with this character. I enjoyed the murder/mystery and the ending.
Lastly, Death by Hot Cocoa Alex Erickson. This was also my first read into this series, Bookstore Cafe Mystery series. I enjoyed Krissy and am interested in reading the remainder of the series. This was easily a stand alone segment, as it was an isolated murder-mystery in classic Agatha Christie style done in with a modern twist by taking place in an escape room. I enjoyed the main character and the conclusion of the mystery. The last chapter did introduce more of the supporting cast of characters which left me wanting to know more, but I was easily able to read between the lines. Good book.
Easily 5/5 stars. Great read.
I think all of alex Erickson mysteries are great.
A good Christmas cozy mystery anthology for cozy mystery lovers.
Christmas Cocoa Murder by Carlene O’Connor
This was my first introduction to this author and her Irish Village Mystery series. It was a good read but not sure if I will start the series.
Christmas Cocoa and a Corpse by Maddie Day
I love the Country Store Mystery series and this short story edition was perfect. I loved it so much that I hated to see it end.
Death by Hot Cocoa by Alex Erickson
I have only read the first one in this series but am seriously considering picking the series back up after this entertaining short story.
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher, Kensington, through NetGalley. Any and all opinions expressed in the above review are entirely my own.
I loved this Cozy Christmas anthology. They were all different but had hot chocolate/hot cocoa in common.
Christmas Cocoa Murder
When someone kills the town Santy, Garda-to-be Siobhàn, is determined to find the killer before Christmas is ruined for the town.
Christmas Cocoa and a Corpse
When her special brand of spicy hot chocolate is suspected of poisoning a local resident, store owner Robbie sets out to find the real culprit.
Death by Hot Chocolate
In a locked-room mystery, it’s death by hot chocolate for the unsuspecting game controller. Can Krissy and the other players find the killer before someone else dies….or the killer gets away?
I loved each of these stories in their own way. I haven’t read books by any of these authors before now but I’ve already added several if their books to my wish list.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley. My thoughts and opinions are my own and without bias.
CHRISTMAS COCOA MURDER – This story is set in Ireland where apparently each town has their own Santa. The Santa in this town seems to have a lot of problems ending in his murder. Siobhan who is soon to be a garda is able to solve this mystery. I was not familiar with this series and felt I was missing some of the story.
CHRISTMAS COCOA AND A CORPSE – Robbie is the owner of a small restaurant in northern Indiana. The restaurant is busy plus the stocking stuffer items including cocoa are selling like hotcakes. The night after dinner with friends, Jed Greenberg is found dead. The cause of death is unknown but the police suspect possible tampering with Robbie’s cocoa. I thoroughly enjoyed this story.
DEATH BY HOT COCOA – This story is set in an escape room. I found it particularly interesting as I don’t know a lot about escape rooms. Great story.
Series: Holiday Collection
Author: Carlene O’Connor, Maddie Day, Alex Erickson
Genre: Cozy Mystery/Holiday
Publisher: Kensington Books
Page Count: 354
In stores now a marvelous holiday collection from Kensington Books Christmas Cocoa Murder written by three of today’s best cozy writers in the industry.
This is a collection of three cozy stories all set at Christmas time with a theme of cocoa in each story. All three stories are well-written and highly entertaining. They are filled with the spirit of the season even when they are deep into murder.
With a terrific cocoa recipe at the end, the first cozy story, Christmas Cocoa Murder has an original plot with a murder taking place within a dunk tank filled with chocolate. It doesn’t take long for this story to unfold with numerous suspects, twists, and turns. There is a unique family bond between the main character, and her siblings and readers will get a sense of how important family is during the holidays. The killer is unusual but not unexpected.
The second story, Christmas Cocoa and A Corpse with Robbie from our favorite Pan ‘N Pancakes restaurant series, there is never a dull moment. Robbie is always involved in murder, and this time is no exception. When a rude and obnoxious customer and local businessman ends up dead after drinking Robbie’s unique cocoa blend, she jumps in to prove she and her cocoa had nothing to do with the man’s demise. This cozy story will keep readers guessing and turning the page to find out what will happen and who the killer turns out to be. As always Robbie, along with her sidekicks, reveals the murderer just in time to save the holidays.
Last but not least comes the third cozy story, Death by Hot Cocoa. A fan favorite, Krissy who owns Death by Coffee, once again becomes embroiled in a murder investigation. But this time there are no police to help her find the killer because she is locked in a room with him or her with no way out. Krissy, along with a group of people are stuck in an escape room game with nothing but their wits to outsmart a killer. The victim wasn’t necessarily liked, but someone took dislike to an all-new low. Krissy saves the day in the end and keeps the Christmas spirit alive.
Each cozy story was a great read. All have plenty of action, a plethora of suspects, and exciting motives. It is a quick read and will leave readers asking for more. I am happy to recommend this book for this year’s holiday season.
Christmas Cocoa Murder is a collection of three novellas. Warning, you may start craving a cup of your favorite hot cocoa!
Christmas Cocoa Murder by Carlene O’Connor is set in Ireland. Being the first time I have read anything of hers I did have to get used to the Irish language but it did not take me long. Siobhan O’Sullivan and her siblings are getting ready for Christmas and attending the annual Christmas carnival. Things take a turn when Santa is shows up floating in a dunk tank filled with hot cocoa. Will it be a Merry Christmas or will a murderer put a damper on the season. O’Connor gives you plenty of twists and turns to the end.
Christmas Cocoa and a Corpse by Maddie Day takes us take to French Lick, Indiana and Robbie’s Pans and Pancakes Country Store and Restaurant. Robbie has a special mix of hot cocoa she is selling in the store and her boyfriend Abe’s father has purchased packs and served at a dinner party. The next morning one of the guests is found dead by library. Was it the cocoa or something else that dropped Mr. Greenburg. As usual, Day keeps you guessing until the end.
Death by Hot Cocoa by Alex Erickson takes us back to Pine Hills where Krissy has been talked into going to a Christmas themed escape room by her friend, Rita. The guests are locked into separate rooms and once released in a second room to escape, they are met by the body of their host. The guests start pointing fingers at each other and Krissy knows it’s up to her to figure out who is responsible so everyone except for the host, can have a Merry Christmas.
All of the stories are clean and easy reads that will get you in the holiday spirit.
I was given an ARC by NetGalley and Kensington for an honest review.
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher through Netgalley.
I have to admit that the biggest reason I requested this one was because there’s a novella by Maddie Day in this book. I love her Country Store Mysteries series and I was excited to read her Christmas novella set in that series. I also like discovering new to me authors, so I figured this was a great opportunity to check out the other two stories as well which are by new to me authors.
Christmas Cocoa Murder by Carlene O’Connor
This story is clearly part of an ongoing series, but even so it was quite easy to get a feel for the setting and the characters. There were a few moments that I did notice me being new to this series, like trouble remembering all the character’s names as none of them were familiar it was a bit much to get introduced to so many new to me characters and there was this part where I hadn’t realized some of Siobhán’s siblings were quite a bit younger than her. It also was a bit difficult at first to get the feel for the setting and characters while also following the start of the mystery. But overall I think the author did a good job making this novella accessible for those who don’t know the series.
The mystery got off to a quick start when the village Santa gets murdered. Siobhán doesn’t start her job at the Garda yet till next year, but she gets involved anyway and can help solve the mystery. The mystery was quite a good one. There are some clues that are important and some things I knew were part of the answer, but it still takes a while for things to come together. I wrongly guessed who the murderer was and there was quite the nice twist when everything finally falls on it’s place.
I think I have the first book in this series and definitely plan to go back and read that at some point. I think if you are already familiar with this series this novella will be even more fun. I had some trouble getting a feel for the characters as I didn’t know them beforehand, but even so it was nice following them around as they solve this mystery.
Christmas Cocoa and a Corpse by Maddie Day
This was the story I was most excited about and it really was a great one. I love this series and I really enjoyed spending some time with Robbie and in her store this time set around Christmas. The Christmas theme was a fun addition and I always enjoy seeing the familiar characters.
The mystery wasn’t as complicated as that in most books in this series. With only two main suspects it was relatively easy to solve it and after a certain clue I was sure I knew who the murder was. Even the motive was clear already. I liked how Robbie again took the effort to be careful and not go alone when talking to possible murder suspect.
All in all this was a great short read set in this series. I enjoyed spending time with the characters and have an entertaining read set around Christmas. There also was a cute puppy and some cocoa as well.
Death by Hot Chocolate by Alex Erickson
This was a fun story. I liked the locked room type of mystery in this book. The main character and one of her friends join a escape room and during the escape room someone gets killed. Now they’re stuck in the escape room and one of them is the killer. I thought this was a fun set-up for a mystery. It added some great suspense knowing one of them was the murderer.
I also liked how this set-up lend itself for a shorter read as they have to figure it out before they can escape from the room. Another bonus was that for those new to this series this short story was really easy to get into as it all takes place in the escape room there aren’t many appearances of characters or mentions of things you don’t know. And this story did make me curious about the rest of the series.
The mystery was a pretty good one. It was tricky to figure out who had done it, but before I had a solid guess the main character figured it out. It made sense and I liked how things fell on it’s place. It also was interesting how the motive in this one was quite hard to figure out and even when the main character figured out the who she didn’t know the why until the murderer told them.
To summarize
I really enjoyed this collection with three Christmas themed cozies. Only one of these was in a series I already knew and the other two authors were new to me. I enjoyed all three of the stories, although the one by Maddie Day was my favorite as I already knew that series. The other two have me curious to check out those series too. I also liked how each of the stories had a Christmas theme and hot cocoa played a role in the murder mystery. All in all I would definitely recommend this collection to cozy mystery fans.
I won this paperback book in the Gooreads giveaway and decided it was time to read this before summer arrives.
These are different cozy mystery stories with cocoa involved in different deaths:
CHRISTMAS COCOA MURDER by CARLENE O’CONNOR
Siobhan O’Sullivan’s hopes for a quiet Irish Christmas during a carnival but the local Santa turns up dead in a carnival dunk tank of hot cocoa. Strange things involved in solving the mystery.
CHRISTMAS COCOA AND A CORPSE by MADDIE DAY
When local businessman Jed Greenberg is found dead with a Chocolate lab whimpering over his body, the police start sniffing around Robbie Jordan’s country restaurant for answers. Was it something in Robbie’s hot cocoa that killed Jed, or was it Cocoa the dog?
Christmas Cocoa Murder by Carlene O’Connor, Maddie Day, and Alex Erickson contains three cozy novellas that are a part of the following series: An Irish Village Mystery series, A Country Store Mystery series and A Bookstore Café Mystery series. I thought they were three entertaining Christmas cozies. They are all well-written and full of Christmas spirit. The three mysteries were interesting with various levels of complexity. The escape room mystery was my favorite, and I particularly enjoyed the description of the escape room puzzles. I have read books from all three series, so it was not a problem for me to read each story. I already knew the characters plus the settings. Maddie Day has my favorite writing style. It is like conversing with old friends. I like how hot cocoa played a part in each story with Christmas Cocoa Murder featuring it in a unique way (a dunk tank). We get to enjoy Christmas festivities in three different towns from two countries. I especially appreciated that all three stories featured intelligent female protagonists who are resourceful and do not break down at the sight of a dead body. I am glad that Kensington puts out these holiday novella collections and I hope that they continue to do so. It is a chance to catch up with our favorite series and solve a mystery (a definite bonus in my book). Christmas Cocoa Murder has three cocoa connected conundrums, a swarm of suspects, many missing mutts, sharp sleuths and copious Christmas cheer.
Reviewing: CHRISTMAS COCOA MURDER BY CARLENE O’CONNOR
Not having read any of the books in this series before I was a bit confused but I quickly got lost in the story. The last chapter brought tears to my eyes and a smile to my face. I can’t wait to read more books by this author!
Reviewing: CHRISTMAS COCOA AND A CORPSE BY MADDIE DAY
I haven’t got to read any of the books in this series and I really want to (but everyone has them checked out at the library) so I got the chance to read this one and I loved it! Great new author to read and a setting with characters I really liked.
Reviewing: DEATH BY HOT COCOA BY ALEX ERICKSON
This was my first Christmas story of the season and WOW it was Great! It was like a locked room mystery and I have never read one of those before and I’m a little sad (but also a little happy ) to say I didn’t guess the killer at all! Very quick read but totally put me in the mood for coffee .