What better way to cap off a tumultuous year than to seek solace in a cozy mystery this December? Especially when the author is a familiar one—dependable and time-tested.

As with other genres, many series' authors pen a special holiday or wintery title as part of—or as a supplement to—their existing story lines. These books insert our beloved characters into a holiday landscape, and often provide lighter fare than other books in the series. They can also be a good entree for curious "newbie" readers who are debating whether or not they want to commit to a whole series. Meant to delight instead of fright, cozies provide a secure retreat from the tempest of activities this month stirs up.

Pining for some comfort and joy to accompany an entertaining mystery? Your favorite mystery author may have already penned a release in the holiday spirit. For this month's blog, I wanted to highlight some examples of these themed cozies. All of the books below are the latest winter-themed releases from some of the most popular authors.

So, get the hot cocoa warmed up, slip off your shoes, and snuggle in for a comforting tale that both warms and chills. I just hope that you have a high-tolerance for bad puns!

December's Featured Reviews

Recent Readings

I have recently finished reading All Her Little Secrets by Wanda M. Morris (a wonderful debut) and Getaway by Zoje Stage. I also really enjoyed listening to the talented narrator of Rabbit Hole by Mark Billingham.

Right now, I am enjoying A Slow Fire Burning by Paula Hawkins, and I am listening to the audio version of Bowlaway by Elizabeth McCracken.

I undoubtedly missed some great books tailor-made for these festive months. Have a favorite cozy author? Do they have a special release you are excited to begin? Drop me a line: (jnmegan@gpl.org)

As always, I truly appreciate your suggestions and feedback, and I hope to hear from you.

Until next time: Be safe, be well and be well-read!

Joelle

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So, who am I, anyway? I am a resident of West Groton, with a husband, 4 teenaged children and a Samoyed puppy-all of whom are systematically destroying our house. I am currently working part time at the Groton Public Library and in a former life I was employed as a Director or PR/Marketing at a high-tech consulting firm. My BA is in Psychology, but most of my time was spent in college earning a Concentration on the Novel. That is all to say that I make no claims at being an expert of any kind and my thoughts, opinions and mistakes are solely my own. I am just a person whose passion for books has continued to grow from the moment I was first able to grip and gnaw on them, and I have been devouring them ever since.