Take a mysterious secret staircase into the holiday season, from Halloween to New Year’s Day, with this collection of seasonal cozy mystery short stories from an elite group of authors. Each story features the characters from the author’s ongoing series. Read about your old favorites, meet some new ones! Halloween, Hound, & Housesitting – Mary Seifert’s new Katie & Maverick mystery kicks off the holiday season with a delightfully spooky house of tricks and a few ghostly surprises. As always, Maverick the search-and-rescue retriever makes sure the clues are found before the witching hour! The Case of the Secret Staircase from J.M. Poole, the bestselling author of The Corgi Case Files. A family celebration for Dia de los Muertos gets interrupted by a series of thefts, small items intended to honor the ancestors. Does it have something to do with Highland House, the venue that’s suspected of harboring a few of its own ghosts? At once, the smart and lovable corgis are on the case. Sherlock and Watson, along with their human helpers, Zack and Jillian Anderson, will unravel the mystery, clue by clue. The Birdless Thanksgiving Affair by Amazon bestselling author, Rick Adelmann, sees our favorite trio of Roaring ’20s detectives gathering at the Mallory family home for Thanksgiving dinner. It’s going beautifully—until the turkey disappears! Thank goodness the MG&M Detectives are on the scene to solve the mystery. Hanukkah Sweets – USA Today bestselling author, Connie Shelton, gives magical baker Samantha Sweet something new to ponder, as a family from New York comes to Taos, New Mexico to celebrate Hanukkah at the local B&B. But what surprises await visitors and locals alike when a secret staircase leads to a hidden treasure? And who among the group has darker intentions for the festival of lights? The Christmas Fairy – Jennifer J. Morgan makes her series debut with this enchanting short story. Libby Madsen and her business partner are eagerly anticipating the grand opening of their luxurious day spa, and the budget will just barely allow for the fantastic decorations and food the ladies want, to set the tone. But an unscrupulous party planner takes off with their money, the party is only days away, and it’s starting to look a little bleak for Christmas this year. What will they do? Champagne Can Be Murder – Charlie Parker and her husband don’t normally celebrate New Year’s Eve in grand style, but an invitation to the Montaña Verde Ranch from Drake’s richest client is not to be ignored. What the heck, they figure, they’ll hobnob with the Hollywood crowd for one night and win some points with the client. But when a big-name producer falls down dead after a trip to the food table, it looks like there’s a killer in their midst. Charlie is on the case, as usual, in Connie Shelton’s USA Today bestselling series.

Christmas Under the Veil of Mystery Ultimate Collection for the Murder Mystery Holiday juxtaposes the joy and tranquility often associated with the holiday season against the dark, compelling allure of the murder mystery genre. Through an exquisite selection of tales by some of the most venerated authors in mystery and detective fiction, this anthology explores the multifaceted ways in which the festive season can serve as a backdrop for stories of intrigue, suspense, and revelation. The diversity of literary styles, from the keen psychological insights of Edgar Allan Poe to the intricate plotting of Agatha Christie, provides a rich tapestry of narratives that underscore the complexity and enduring appeal of the genre. These compelling stories not only entertain but also illuminate the shadows that lie beneath the surface of our festive traditions. The contributing authors and editors, hailing from various backgrounds and time periods, collectively contribute a wealth of perspectives to the anthology. Their works reflect significant historical, cultural, and literary movements, from the burgeoning detective fiction craze of the late 19th century to the golden age of the whodunit. This convergence of singular talents, including pioneers like Arthur Conan Doyle and innovators such as Anna Katharine Green, creates a mosaic of storytelling that enriches the reader's understanding of the theme, while offering insights into the evolution of the mystery genre itself. Christmas Under the Veil of Mystery invites readers to explore a fascinating composite of mystery and merriment. This anthology serves as a unique educational tool, offering readers not just entertainment but a deeper appreciation for the craftsmanship behind some of the most influential works in mystery fiction. It is an essential collection for anyone looking to immerse themselves in the breadth of narratives that can be spun from the intersection of the festive and the forensic, and a testament to the enduring fascination with the mysteries that lurk just beneath the surface of our celebrations.

Come visit New Mexico at Christmas! Three full-length books and a novella by USA Today and international bestselling author, Connie Shelton. Featuring the characters from both of her popular cozy mystery series, each of these stories features a holiday setting that is sure to whet your appetite for the season! "Shelton again has done a superb job in bringing New Mexico to life in her colorful, vivid description..." -- Albuquerque Journal "Connie Shelton gets better with every book she writes." -- The Midwest Book Review Sweet Holidays This book is third in the Samantha Sweet mystery series which features a fifty-something woman who breaks into houses for a living. Her sideline business—baking delectable cakes and goodies—has now blossomed into a full-time pastry shop and Sam is about to experience her first Christmas season as entrepreneur, which she juggles with the commitments of her previous job and a budding romance with Beau Cardwell, the county sheriff. Honeymoons Can Be Murder This book is sixth in the Charlie Parker mystery series, in which Charlotte “Charlie” Parker finds herself drawn somewhat against her better judgment into the cases that come into her family private investigation firm. This time, Charlie and her husband Drake—newlyweds—have been given the chance for an extended Christmas-season honeymoon at a cozy cabin in the snowy mountains near Taos, New Mexico. While the fireplace burns brightly indoors, a new mystery presents itself and Charlie becomes wrapped up in a puzzle involving false murder accusations, stolen artifacts, and someone whose actions mean to leave Charlie to die in the cold. Buried Secrets Can Be Murder Charlie Parker is hoping for a holiday season without drama but that just isn’t going to happen. Her office assistant’s baby is due any moment, her brother is engaged to a woman Charlie is only now beginning to know, and her social calendar is becoming incredibly full. When she and Drake are invited to a soiree at a showplace historic home, she’s eager to go. But before she can fully settle in and enjoy the season, a disturbing case comes through the door at RJP Investigations and Charlie can’t turn away the distraught man whose life was ripped apart by the disappearance of his children several years earlier. She has to do everything in her power to make his family holiday a happy one, even if the effort might very well destroy her own. Holidays Can Be Murder This Christmas novella brings together all that we love about the holidays—special foods, plenty of sweets, and visiting mothers-in-law. Charlie is about to host Drake’s mother for the week and isn’t at all sure how that will work out. They make ready for the visit with all the extras that make a New Mexico Christmas so special—setting out luminarias, hanging the outdoor lights, putting up the tree, making green chile stew and hoping for snow. It should be perfect. It would be perfect, except for the murder that happens right in their neighborhood. (Includes two bonus New Mexico holiday recipes.)

The Best Holiday Mysteries for Christmas Time stands as a seminal anthology that weaves together a rich tapestry of mystery narratives set against the backdrop of the festive season. The collection boasts an eclectic range of literary styles, from the gothic to the detective, and encapsulates the unique ability of the Christmas period to serve as both a setting of warmth and an eerie backdrop for unraveling mysteries. The anthology is distinguished by its diversity, featuring standout pieces that explore the gamut of human emotions and the dark corners of the human psyche, all while employing the holiday season as a critical element of their storytelling. The compilation is a testament to the versatility and enduring appeal of the holiday mystery genre, offering readers a treasure trove of narratives that are at once captivating and reflective. The contributing authors to The Best Holiday Mysteries for Christmas Time are a venerable whos who of literary giants, spanning diverse backgrounds yet unified by their contributions to the genres of mystery and suspense. Including works by literary stalwarts such as Charles Dickens, Arthur Conan Doyle, and Nathaniel Hawthorne, the collection encapsulates a wide-ranging reflection on the theme of mystery within the context of Christmas. This anthology not only aligns with historical literary movements but also offers a panoramic view of the development of the mystery genre, showcasing the evolution of narrative techniques and thematic preoccupations from the Victorian era to the early twentieth century. The varied voices and perspectives of the authors enrich the readers understanding of the multifaceted theme, making it a profound exploration of the human condition through the lens of holiday mystery. The Best Holiday Mysteries for Christmas Time is an indispensable addition to the library of any aficionado of the mystery genre or the holiday literary tradition. Readers are afforded the unique opportunity to explore a multiplicity of perspectives, styles, and themes unified under the umbrella of the Christmas mystery. This anthology serves not only as an engaging collection of holiday whodunnits but also as a meaningful educational resource. It invites readers into a dialogue with the past, offering insights into the historical and cultural contexts that have shaped the mystery genre. Engaging with this anthology promises not only a captivating reading experience but also a deeper appreciation for the literary craftsmanship of these celebrated authors.

Molly the Maid has a whole new mystery to solve in this heartwarming novella from the #1 New York Times bestselling author of The Maid and The Mystery Guest. Molly Gray has always loved the holidays. When Molly was a child, her gran went to great lengths to make the season merry and bright, full of cherished traditions. The first few Christmases without Gran were hard on Molly, but this year, her beloved boyfriend and fellow festive spirit, Juan Manuel, is intent on making the season Molly’s most joyful yet. But when a Secret Santa gift exchange at the Regency Grand Hotel raises questions about who Molly can and cannot trust, she dives headfirst into solving her most consequential—and personal—mystery yet. Molly has a bad feeling about things, and she starts to wonder: has she yet again mistaken a frog for a prince? A heartwarming, magical story about the true spirit of the season, The Mistletoe Mystery reminds us that love is the greatest mystery of all.

"The entire field of film historians awaits the AFI volumes with eagerness."--Eileen Bowser, Museum of Modern Art Film Department Comments on previous volumes: "The source of last resort for finding socially valuable . . . films that received such scant attention that they seem 'lost' until discovered in the AFI Catalog."--Thomas Cripps "Endlessly absorbing as an excursion into cultural history and national memory."--Arthur Schlesinger, Jr.

The Alden children were searching for a home – and found a life of adventure! Beloved by generations of families, this illustrated chapter book series is full of wholesome excitement, danger, and mystery. Grandfather is taking everyone on a special holiday trip to an old-fashioned New England inn. The Aldens have fun playing in the snow, ice-skating, and working puzzles. Then mysterious things start to happen at the inn, and the owner worries he'll have to shut down. Can the Boxcar Children find the culprit, or will their winter vacation be cut short?

A guide to classic and vintage motion picture suspense in film noir, mystery thrillers and detective movies from Hollywood's Golden Age, this book also provides credits, reviews, original release information and current DVD details. Movies include not only famous classics like "Charlie Chan in Egypt", "City Streets", "Counsellor at Law", "Father Brown, Detective", "Gilda", "The Kennel Murder Case", "The Lady from Shanghai", "Laura", "Mysterious Mr Moto", "The Naked City", "Nightmare Alley", "Odd Man Out", "Out of the Past", "The Paradine Case", "Rebecca", etc., but lesser known titles. Additional essays survey Film Noir, Sherlock Holmes, The Thin Man, Raymond Chandler, Humphrey Bogart and Alan Ladd.

Libby Madsen and her best friend Alexis Johnson are about to realize their longtime dream, opening their own business, a luxurious day spa in Mesa, Arizona. They’ll offer massages, aroma therapy treatments, and meditation—everything harried city dwellers need. The contractors are nearly done, and the ladies have the brilliant idea to hold their grand opening right before Christmas. They’ll decorate to the hilt and host a gala evening that will launch their business in fine style. Libby gets a tip on a party planner—good thing, as he’s the only one available on short notice at the holiday season. But when he takes off with their money and there’s not a decoration or nibble of food in sight, what will they do? Lexi receives a mysterious package from India, from her beloved grandmother who passed away some time ago, along with a letter of encouragement. Will the contents of the package truly help them out of their dilemma? Or does the tiny woman in pink who walks through the door have something to do with it? They may not know the answer until the very last minute, but the party must go on! Praise for the Libby Madsen series: “The more I read of the Libby Madsen mysteries the more I love them! Libby and her friends are so down-to-earth, the friends I’d have if they lived in my neighborhood. Spunky and adventurous, Libby gets herself into hot water now and then but she always figures it out. Love her!” – Connie Shelton, USA Today bestselling author of the Charlie Parker and Samantha Sweet mysteries

The Alden children were searching for a home – and found a life of adventure! Beloved by generations of families, this illustrated chapter book series is full of wholesome excitement, danger, and mystery. There's going to be a free Thanksgiving dinner for the whole town of Greenfield--except the turkey is missing! The Aldens are helping out at a new food pantry, collecting donations and putting up signs. But someone keeps moving the signs, and when the main course for the big town dinner disappears, the Boxcar Children have a mystery to solve!