Happy Bloody Christmas by Jo Middleton review

About The Book

Book: Happy Bloody Christmas
Author: Jo Middleton
Standalone or Series: Book 1 in the Christmas Murder Mysteries series
Publisher: Avon Books
Publication Date (UK): 26th September 2024

My Review

First off, a huge thank you to Jo Middleton for sending me a copy of this book! And can we take a moment to appreciate this absolutely stunning bespoke cover from Blue Lagoon Binding, which I won through a publisher competition from Avon Books. I also grabbed the eBook on Kobo!

Now, onto the book. I’ll admit, I was a bit apprehensive with the humour elements whether I would like this. But Jo seemed lovely, has an adorable golden retriever (always a good sign) and I was in the mood for a festive read. Turns out, I needn’t have worried!

I’m not sure if it’s my age but I really resonated with Anna, the main character. Though you won’t find me attempting Twister anytime soon! I loved her narrative and how chaotic her mind could be switching from subject to subject and going off of humourous tangents. She felt real, relatable and likeable.

The story kicks off after Anna’s annual Christmas party. Hungover and bracing for the arrival of her in-laws, she starts tackling the post-party mess. But amidst the glasses and empty snack dishes, she stumbles across a much bigger issue: Santa. Dead. In her pantry.

Cue Anna and her best friend living out their childhood detective dreams as they create murder boards, pore over evidence and try to get blood out of the grout (Mrs Hinch would definitely have a field day). It’s festive, funny and absolutely chaotic in the best way.

If you’re in the mood for a holiday read with plenty of laughs and a murder to solve, give this one a go! I’m already looking forward to catching up with Anna and family again in 2025 🎄

Happy Bloody Christmas is available now. A huge thanks to the author and publisher for sending me a copy.

🛒 Purchase Happy Bloody Christmas: Amazon, Kobo, Bookshop.org, Waterstones.

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