As the festive season approaches, there’s nothing quite like curling up with a captivating novel that whisks you away into a world of intrigue, suspense, and holiday cheer. Holiday-themed mystery novels offer the perfect blend of cozy vibes and thrilling plots, making them an ideal companion for chilly evenings by the fire. Whether you’re a fan of classic whodunits or modern twists, this list of the top 10 holiday-themed mystery novels has something for every reader. From charming small-town settings to relentless detectives uncovering secrets, these books will keep you guessing and entertained from start to finish. So grab your favorite blanket, a warm cup of cocoa, and dive into these delightful mysteries that celebrate the spirit of the season while keeping you on the edge of your seat!
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10. Rest Ye Murdered Gentlemen: A Year-Round Christmas Mystery, Book 1
$0.00$8.99$7.99 • 4.3 Stars • 991 Reviews
Cozy up with ‘Rest Ye Murdered Gentlemen: A Year-Round Christmas Mystery, Book 1,’ a delightful holiday-themed mystery novel set in the charming town of Rudolph, New York. This engaging story seamlessly blends the joy of the Christmas season with an intriguing murder mystery. As Merry Wilkinson, the owner of Mrs. Claus’s Treasures, navigates sabotaged parade floats and a sinister plot that threatens her best friend, readers are treated to a vibrant depiction of Christmas cheer turned sour. With a strong star rating of 4.3 based on nearly 1,000 reviews, this book captivates fans of cozy mysteries with its festive setting, quirky characters, and clever plot twists. Priced affordably at just $7.99, it’s the perfect addition to your holiday reading list. Notable pros include a well-crafted narrative filled with humor and engaging suspense, while the only downside may be its slower pacing for readers seeking fast-paced thrillers. Ideal for fans of cozy mysteries and those looking for a light-hearted holiday read, this novel will surely bring warmth and intrigue to your winter evenings.
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9. Christmas Cupcake Murder: A Festive & Delicious Christmas Cozy Mystery (A Hannah Swensen Mystery)
$7.46$0.00$0.00 • 4.3 Stars • 5424 Reviews
Dive into the holiday spirit with ‘Christmas Cupcake Murder: A Festive & Delicious Christmas Cozy Mystery,’ the perfect blend of delectable treats and thrilling intrigue, featuring the beloved character Hannah Swensen. With a robust star rating of 4.3 from over 5,424 reviewers, this engaging novel is a must-read for fans of cozy mysteries. In this installment, Hannah is once again surrounded by festive cheer as she prepares her famous Christmas cupcakes, only to be drawn into a murder investigation that threatens her holiday plans. Readers will appreciate the book’s vivid descriptions of wintery landscapes and mouthwatering recipes, making it both an entertaining read and a culinary adventure. The cozy small-town setting and relatable characters wrap you in a warm embrace, ideal for curling up with during the holiday season.
Pros include its engaging plot that cleverly intertwines mystery with lighthearted holiday themes, making it suitable for both seasoned mystery lovers and casual readers just looking for a fun escape. The clear and approachable writing style enhances the reading experience, drawing you deeper into the deliciously suspenseful narrative. On the downside, some readers may find the plot predictable if they are seasoned mystery readers; however, the charm of spoilers is offset by the book’s warmth and cozy atmosphere.
This novel is best suited for those who enjoy lighthearted mysteries, fans of the holiday season, and readers looking for delightful recipes to try at home. Whether you’re snuggled in your favorite armchair or preparing for festive gatherings, ‘Christmas Cupcake Murder’ is the ideal companion for savoring the cozy moments of the holidays.
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8. The Killer’s Christmas List: The instant bestseller: a gripping new festive detective crime thriller novel with a chilling twist, for winter 2025 (DI Tom Stonem, Book 1)
$2.99$15.61$0.00 • 4.2 Stars • 2297 Reviews
If you’re in the mood for a suspenseful read this holiday season, look no further than The Killer’s Christmas List by Chris Frost. This gripping detective novel introduces readers to DI Tom Stonem, who is thrust into a chilling investigation just as he’s dreaming of a quiet Christmas. Set against the backdrop of the picturesque village of Kibblesworth, the story begins with a body mysteriously posed with a child’s Christmas list in his pocket, immediately drawing readers into a twisty plot filled with intrigue and dark secrets. With an engaging narrative style and a touch of festive dread, the book brilliantly combines elements of classic crime fiction and holiday cheer, making it perfect for fans of thrillers seeking a seasonal twist. The novel has garnered a commendable star rating of 4.2 based on over 2,297 reviews, showcasing its widespread appeal. Plus, with a price point of only $2.99 on Kindle, it’s an affordable addition to your reading list. Pros include its clever plotting and evocative setting, which deepen the suspense, while cons may include its grim themes, which may not be for everyone looking for a cozy holiday read. Best suited for crime fiction enthusiasts and mystery lovers, particularly those who enjoy a darker take on holiday narratives, this novel promises to keep you guessing until the last page.
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7. Where the Crawdads Sing: Reese’s Book Club
$9.90$0.00$12.99 • 4.7 Stars • 633223 Reviews
Where the Crawdads Sing – Deluxe Edition: Dive into the enchanting world of Delia Owens’ bestselling novel, ‘Where the Crawdads Sing’, a perfect companion for cold winter nights. This deluxe edition invites readers to immerse themselves in a gripping tale of love and resilience against the backdrop of the wild marshlands of North Carolina. With over 633,000 reviews and a remarkable 4.7-star rating, this novel blends mystery with coming-of-age themes, making it an exceptional page-turner. One standout quality is its evocative prose that paints stunning visuals of nature, making readers feel connected to the protagonist, Kya, as she navigates solitude and society’s harsh judgments. While the deeper themes of isolation and belonging make this book extremely engaging, some readers may find the pacing slower during certain sections. Ideal for lovers of literary fiction and those with a penchant for mysteries, this novel is best suited for readers seeking an emotional and immersive experience. Plus, for an added layer of fun, don’t miss the ‘Where the Crawdads Sing 1000-piece Puzzle,’ perfect for cozy evenings at home.
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6. Everyone This Christmas Has a Secret: A Whodunit Full of Twists and Turns, A Clever and Cozy Mystery (The Ernest Cunningham Mysteries Book 3)
$9.99$0.00$15.23 • 4 Stars • 1608 Reviews
Get ready to unwrap a delightful mystery this holiday season with ‘Everyone This Christmas Has a Secret’ by Benjamin Stevenson, the third installment in the Ernest Cunningham Mysteries series. Priced at a mere $9.99, this cleverly crafted whodunit is perfect for readers seeking an engaging, twisty tale filled with holiday cheer and suspense. Follow the hapless Ernest as he navigates a web of deceit at a magician’s show, where every suspect is a master of illusion, keeping readers guessing until the last page. The standout feature of this novel is its clever integration of Christmas themes with classic mystery storytelling, reminiscent of both ‘Knives Out’ and ‘The Thursday Murder Club.’ With a star rating of 4 and over 1,600 enthusiastic reviews, its blend of humor and intrigue makes it the ideal read for fans of cozy mysteries or those who enjoy a good puzzle. Pros include a well-paced narrative, engaging characters, and a festive atmosphere, while cons may point to its somewhat convoluted plot for readers who prefer straightforward storytelling. Overall, this book is best suited for mystery lovers ready to indulge in a seasonal read that combines holiday spirit and a captivating enigma.
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5. The Christmas Bookshop: A Novel
$0.00$1.99$12.59 • 4.2 Stars • 21710 Reviews
Dive into the enchanting world of The Christmas Bookshop: A Novel, an Instant New York Times Best Seller that perfectly embodies the spirit of the holiday season. This heartwarming tale by beloved author Jenny Colgan revolves around Carmen, a woman navigating unemployment and family tensions while trying to revive a picturesque yet rundown bookshop in historic Edinburgh. The book is infused with humor, wit, and emotional depth, making it an ideal cozy read during the holidays. Key features include vivid storytelling, a charming setting, and engaging characters that will captivate your heart. The intriguing plot, coupled with a love triangle and familial themes, stands out as both entertaining and relatable. Pros include its delightful narrative style and the warmth it brings, making it perfect for anyone seeking a dose of festive cheer. However, the book’s slow pacing might not appeal to readers looking for quick action. Best suited for those who enjoy character-driven stories, families mending relationships, and fans of holiday literature, The Christmas Bookshop invites readers to find solace and joy in the magic of Christmas.
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4. The Most Wonderful Crime of the Year: A Novel: An Enemies-to-Lovers Christmas Romance and a Cozy Mystery Set in the English Countryside.
$12.99$0.00$18.74 • 4.3 Stars • 7828 Reviews
If you’re looking to immerse yourself in a whimsical holiday mystery, look no further than ‘The Most Wonderful Crime of the Year: A Novel: An Enemies-to-Lovers Christmas Romance and a Cozy Mystery Set in the English Countryside.’ Renowned for its captivating blend of romance and intrigue, this novel has garnered a stellar 4.3-star rating from over 7,828 reviews. Priced at just $12.99, it provides an affordable escape into a festive narrative filled with twists and lighthearted humor. Readers will be enchanted by the expertly crafted characters, particularly the palpable tension between the enemies-turned-lovers, set against the picturesque backdrop of the English countryside during the holidays. Standout features include engaging dialogue, a robust plot that keeps you guessing, and a charming setting that whiskers away to a cozy, wintry ambiance. While some may find the plot predictable, the warmth and cheer of the story make it ideal for anyone seeking a delightful seasonal read without intense darkness. This book is best suited for romance aficionados and mystery lovers who enjoy a sprinkle of holiday cheer in their storytelling.
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3. When Christmas Comes (Cameron Winter Mysteries)
$17.02$9.99$0.00 • 4.7 Stars • 4361 Reviews
When Christmas Comes (Cameron Winter Mysteries) is a captivating holiday-themed mystery novel that seamlessly blends suspense with the festive spirit. With an impressive star rating of 4.7 from over 4,361 reviews, this book is a favorite among mystery aficionados and casual readers alike. Set against a picturesque Christmas backdrop, the story follows private investigator Cameron Winter as he navigates through a series of twists and turns to uncover the truth behind a shocking crime. One standout quality of this novel is its rich character development; readers are quickly drawn into the lives of both the protagonist and supporting characters, each with their own secrets and motives. The writing is engaging, with a balance of humor and tension that keeps readers on the edge of their seats. Pros include its ability to weave together festive themes with thrilling plotlines and the strong, relatable protagonist. Cons may involve some predictable elements that seasoned mystery readers might notice. This book is best suited for mystery lovers looking for a holiday escape that combines intrigue with seasonal charm, making it a perfect choice for anyone wanting to cozy up with a glass of cocoa and solve a mystery this festive season.
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2. The Christmas Murder Game
$8.58$9.03$0.00 • 3.8 Stars • 3224 Reviews
The Christmas Murder Game by C.S. Green is a thrilling, holiday-themed mystery that is sure to capture the hearts of avid readers looking for an engaging, cozy escape this season. Set in the hauntingly beautiful Endgame House, the story follows Lily Armitage as she reluctantly returns to face not just her family’s past, but also the shadows of her mother’s unsolved murder. Blending elements of classic whodunits with a festive twist, this novel challenges readers with twelve clues and a scavenger hunt that heightens the sense of competition and intrigue. With a star rating of 3.8 out of 5, the narrative is driven by a gripping premise where the stakes are life and death amid holiday celebrations. Notable pros include its captivating storytelling and interactive elements, appealing to those who enjoy engaging with the plot. However, some readers may find the pacing uneven, which could detract from the excitement for a few. Best suited for mystery lovers and fans of holiday fiction, this book offers a perfect blend of suspense and Christmas cheer, making it an ideal companion for cozy nights by the fire.
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1. The Mistletoe Mystery: A Maid Novella (Molly the Maid)
$0.00$11.00$9.99 • 4 Stars • 2664 Reviews
The Mistletoe Mystery: A Maid Novella (Molly the Maid) is a delightful holiday-themed mystery from the acclaimed #1 New York Times bestselling author. In this heartwarming tale, fans will reunite with the endearing character Molly Gray, who has a flair for unraveling mysteries amidst her beloved festive traditions. As she prepares for a joyful Christmas with her boyfriend, Juan Manuel, Molly finds herself wrapped in a web of intrigue following a Secret Santa gift exchange at the Regency Grand Hotel, unveiling deep-seated trust issues among friends and strangers alike. This novella captures the essence of the holidays while exploring the heartfelt question of trust and love, making it a perfect read for anyone seeking warmth and excitement this season. Pros: Engaging writing style, relatable protagonist, and an enchanting holiday atmosphere. Cons: Some readers may find the mystery predictable. Ideal for: Fans of cozy mysteries, holiday enthusiasts, and those looking to unwind with a touching story and a sprinkle of suspense.
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