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romonko's review against another edition
emotional
lighthearted
mysterious
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
3.0
Number 8 in this wonderful series. The book dragged a bit, but I loved the Christmas spin, and I loved the way it ended. Verlaque and his Martine leave us waiting for the next book with the dropping of some really good news. I had a little difficulty keeping the names straight of all the potential suspects, and this was exacerbated by the numerous countries that were represented in the Aix-on Provence Christmas trade show. I also found Verlaque a bit slow on the uptake, and, in fact, is upstaged by his wife in the solving of the case of the American man poisoned at a Christmas buffet feast. but it's a lovely Christmas-themed murder that i happened to read in February. On to the next one.
iceangel9's review against another edition
adventurous
emotional
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? N/A
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.25
The eighth book in the realistic fiction Provencal Mystery series. The Verlaque's attend a multi-denominational Christmas carol service and dinner, even thought the Judge doesn't really care for Christmas. When one of the hosts is poisoned at the event, the Judge must step in and discover the identity of the killer. There is certainly no lack of suspects, including the dead man's wife. Fans of the series will enjoy this installment.
chattynattyreads's review against another edition
4.0
Christmas in the South of France… yes please. Lovely little Christmas mystery- cozy mystery reminiscent of Agatha Christie+ Louise Penny+ France. I’ll be reading others by this author.
meli0706's review against another edition
4.0
This is a delightful cozy mystery set in Aix in France. The setting is like a character itself and that naturally adds to the atmosphere. It is an enjoyable, easy read with a nice holiday setting.
mgeorges's review against another edition
3.0
A different flavor of cozy mystery - French, apparently. A bit slower than I prefer, but I did get the holiday mystery I was after.
mountainreader's review against another edition
mysterious
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
2.0
rebeccakb's review against another edition
3.0
The nave is full of people attending a special mass when murder occurs upsetting the balance of the holiday season. Verlaque is a bit Scrooge like about Christmas, and the murder and attempted murder of two townspeople doesn't endear the holiday to him. As he and Paulik dig through the many possible suspects it becomes harder to tell if the crimes should have been swapped and if there might be a link to something from the past in a different country.
jvd001's review against another edition
3.0
In Antoine Verlaque, M. L. Longworth has created a very sympathetic hero, a French Peter Wimsey without a title: he knows his food and wine, is witty and intelligent and attractive even though his love of good food is causing him to put on a few pounds. He is independently wealthy but has chosen to work in the legal system. He has an intelligent, beautiful and scholarly wife who helps him in solving crimes. However, Antoine lives in Aix-en-Provence, land of lavender, cypress, sunshine, vivid colors and vineyards: no fog and rain for him, just le mistral.
This series of novels is a pleasant read. Plotting is very secondary to milieu here. The author has created a world worth returning to, peopled by well-developed characters.
This series of novels is a pleasant read. Plotting is very secondary to milieu here. The author has created a world worth returning to, peopled by well-developed characters.
mizzouatheart's review against another edition
3.0
The publisher provided a free copy of this book. I’ve enjoyed every book in this series and also loved this one. I wish I could give half stars. I love how the author integrates old characters into the storyline even if not playing a major role, which makes it feel like a real community. Also loved one of the new characters who will now be a regular. I did not enjoy most of Marine’s storyline this time but by the end she seemed to be more of her old sleuthing self. Overall, another enjoyable read about a beautiful place with amazing history, art, and food.