An impulsive and emotional sleuth but a funny twist on a whodunnit

Not A Creature Was Stirring (A Merry & Bright Handcrafted Mystery Book 1)

By: Christina Freeburn

Rating: 3.5 of 5

I’ve read other books by this author, so I thought I would take a chance on reading this new series. I love Christmas and Christmas-themed books, so a book about a Christmas crafter seemed like a natural fit for me. In many ways it was but, on the whole, I would rate it as a 3.5.

The plot and the dialog of the story are very appealing. What is a little less appealing is the main character, Merry Winters. While I like facets of her quite well, she seems to be out of control emotionally (lots of tears.)

Another less appealing aspect of Merry is her inability to stop herself from doing things that put her at risk. When she is told not to do something, you can bet your bottom dollar, she’ll be doing it shortly.

Putting all of that aside, the plot of the story is well done. The parts that talk about her crafting and her experience at the show are really interesting. There are relationships developing that seem quite different from the norm.

The device of being in business with another individual and texting can become old quickly. In a day when you can call, text, or use a visual interface, to always text and leave a trail of your discussion seems out of date.

I am hoping that Merry learns a little more self-control and dries up her tears a bit as the series progresses.