This is an absolute gem of a novella that combines the festive spirit of the holidays with a perfectly crafted mystery. From start to finish, I was drawn in by Swanson’s writing style, which is both smooth and immersive, making it a pleasure to read.

„When Ashley Smith – a bright-eyed but lonely American studying in London – is invited to spend Christmas with her classmate’s family at their Cotswolds manor house, it seems like a perfect country idyll. And for Ashley – who records it all in her diary – there’s the added romantic potential of her friend’s twin brother, Adam, who she thinks could be her wildest dream come true. But is there something strange about the old house, both stately and rundown? What could the motives of the mysterious Chapman family be? And what holiday horrors might be lying in wait?“

Blurb

One of the standout aspects of this book is the way it plays with familiar tropes of mystery novels—there’s even a nod to the classic game Cluedo. But don’t be fooled: Swanson subverts expectations at every turn, delivering twists and surprises I never saw coming. My girlfriend and I read this together, discussing and theorizing as we went along, yet we were still caught off guard. It’s a testament to Swanson’s skill at building genuine suspense.

The pacing is spot on—never rushed, almost never dragging—and the tension remains palpable throughout. It’s one of those rare books where you can’t help but keep turning the pages, eager to uncover the truth.

Whether you’re a Christmas enthusiast, a mystery fan, or just looking for a great read to cozy up with during the holiday season, this story is a must-read. I happily give it a well-deserved 5 stars. Highly recommended!

Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️