I liked Nita Prose’s first two mysteries featuring Molly the Maid, The Maid and The Mystery Guest. Molly works at the Regency Grand Hotel. When her Gran died, Molly lost the person who understood her worldview. Molly sees things a little differently than other people, and sometimes needs clues as to what’s happening. But, I think I’m finished after reading the novella, The Mistletoe Mystery. I’ve appreciated Molly’s viewpoint since it is different, but I’m tired of a view that doesn’t trust anyone.
It’s December, and Molly’s Gram always made the Christmas holidays special, beginning with Advent. There was a special gift for Molly every day beginning December 1. Although Molly’s boyfriend, Juan Manual, does everything he can to make the holidays special, Molly worries that his love for her won’t last.
Juan seems to be putting in extra time at work, and he seems very attentive to some of the guests. Now, Molly worries that there’s something wrong, something off about Juan and their relationship.
I’ll admit other reviewers loved this, and thought it was a perfect little Christmas mystery. I was just too exasperated that Molly couldn’t see the love that was right in front of her face. The Mistletoe Mystery just wasn’t for me.
Nita Prose’s website is https://www.nitaprose.com/
The Mistletoe Mystery by Nita Prose. Ballantine, 2024. ISBN 9780593875445 (hardcover), 128p.
FTC Full Disclosure – I received a galley from the publisher through NetGalley, with no expectation of a positive review.
Yeah, I thought that it was wearing a little thin after the second book. Perhaps she’s gone to that well once too often. Time to move on and find something else to write about. Thanks for warning us off.
I liked the second better than the first, Jeff, because I feel as if I understood Molly a little better. But, it didn’t work for me this time.
Like Jeff I thought the character of Molly was wearing thin by book two. Based on your review Lesa I think I can let this novella pass me by. I did have The Mistletoe Mystery on hold at my library but just canceled it, there are just too many books and too little time.
You’re right, Susan. There are plenty of other books out there.
I loved the first one, was less enchanted with the second, but want to read this one. I think the problem is Molly’s quirks don’t jive with her promotion and her boyfriend.
I’ll be interested to see your opinion, Cindy.