"The Most Wonderful Crime of the Year" - Summary

Get ready for a Christmas mystery with a dash of romance! In Ally Carter's "The Most Wonderful Crime of the Year," we meet Maggie Chase, the queen of cozy mysteries, and Ethan Wyatt, a big-time thriller writer. They are complete opposites who can't stand each other. When they both receive a mysterious invitation to a Christmas house party at the secluded English estate of the legendary author, Eleanor Ashley, also known as the Duchess of Death, they reluctantly accept. Little do they know they are about to get far more than festive cheer. On a stormy Christmas Eve, Eleanor disappears from a locked room, leaving Maggie and Ethan to solve the mystery. Is it an elaborate prank, a publicity stunt, or is there something more sinister afoot?

Key Themes:

1. The World of Books and Fandom: The novel plunges into the captivating world of books and fandom, using it as a central backdrop for the mystery. Eleanor Ashley, the missing author, is a legend in the mystery genre, and her devoted fans, including Maggie and Ethan, are eager to meet their idol. The story cleverly incorporates elements of fandom culture, creating a relatable and intriguing setting for the unfolding drama.
2. Rivals to Lovers: The story features a classic romance trope: rivals forced to work together. Maggie and Ethan, despite their undeniable chemistry, constantly clash over their differing writing styles and opinions. However, as they delve deeper into the mystery surrounding Eleanor's disappearance, they must learn to trust each other, leading to a slow-burn romance amidst the suspense.
3. The Mystery of a Locked Room: The heart of the story lies in the classic "locked room" mystery trope. Eleanor's disappearance from a secured room, with no apparent way in or out, sets the stage for a thrilling puzzle. Maggie and Ethan must utilize their individual strengths and knowledge of the mystery genre to decipher clues, interview quirky guests, and uncover the truth behind Eleanor's vanishing act.

FAQs:

• Q: Is this book part of a series?
  • A: As of now, "The Most Wonderful Crime of the Year" is a standalone novel.
• Q: What is the target audience for this book?
  • A: This book will appeal to readers who enjoy cozy mysteries, holiday-themed stories, and romance, particularly fans of authors like Emily Henry and Jenny Bayliss.
• Q: Is the book appropriate for younger readers?
  • A: While the mystery itself is lighthearted, there might be some mild romantic tension and themes that make it more suitable for a young adult and adult audience.
• Q: When is the book being released?
  • A: "The Most Wonderful Crime of the Year" is set to be released on September 24, 2024.