num_pages: 203
description: Christmas in the English countryside―what could be more charming? Not even a blizzard can keep Rex Graves away from Swanmere Manor, a historic hotel in East Sussex. But instead of Christmas cheer, the red-haired Scottish barrister finds a dead guest. Was it a stroke that killed old Mr. Lawdry? Or an almond tart laced with poison? When more guests die, all hopes for a jolly holiday are dashed. Worst of all, the remote mansion is buried under beastly snow. No one can leave. Confined with a killer, no one can enjoy their tea without suspicion and scrutiny. Rex takes it upon himself to solve the mystery, but the most intriguing evidence―a burnt manuscript―offers few clues. Could the killer be the sherry-swilling handyman? The gay antiques dealer with a biting wit? The quarreling newlyweds? Surely, it's not Helen d'Arcy, the lovely lass Rex seems to be falling for . . . "CHRISTMAS IS MURDER is the first book in a new series featuring Rex Graves as barrister and sleuth. The book is an enjoyable and quick read. The setting is great, a Victorian hotel in England in modern times, the characters are interesting and the mystery is engaging. I couldn't figure out who the murderer was―any of the guests could have done it! This is not a very 'Christmasy' book. It could be read just about anytime of the year. I look forward to more books in this series."~ The Friendly Book Nook"Agatha Christie fans, here you go! You have been waiting for a mystery writer that can hold the torch, well we found C.S. Challinor. CHRISTMAS IS MURDER is her first book in the Rex Graves series, and we didn't solve the mystery! In fact, we were not even close. She told such a wonderful story that we were lost in her world for a while!"~ Suspense Magazine"CHRISTMAS IS MURDER is an engaging whodunit populated with an interesting and imaginative mix of characters and a very appealing and charming sleuth in Rex Graves. The story effortlessly combines elements of a classic country house mystery with an Agatha Christie-style denouement to great effect. With some of the guests concealing secret objectives for being present, this quick-reading mystery will keep readers guessing until the end."~ Mysterious Reviews"Authors are sometimes compared to Dame Agatha but, in my opinion, few of their books have those characteristics and―more important―the overall feel of hers. CHRISTMAS IS MURDER does."~ Cozy Library"Wanted to let you know I just finished the book and enjoyed it very much. I'm thinking of pairing it up with a large assortment box of shortbread at the holidays. Eat some shortbread, make a cup of tea and curl up with a good book."~Barbara Selvaggio, Walkers Shortbread US"Cozy fans will want to find CHRISTMAS IS MURDER tucked into their stockings for a cold, winter's night read. This is one to help you while away the hours without scaring you out of your slippers; a delectable tidbit of a puzzle that will leave you hungry for the next Rex Graves Mystery."~ Mysterical-E Magazine
language: English
title: Christmas is Murder
publisher: Midnight Ink