3.5 Stars
One Liner: A decent read

Iris Woodmore is back sleuthing when the leading lady in the pantomime charity play is found dead. With Percy’s younger brother being one of the suspects, Iris decides to investigate the case. She also comes face to face with her nemesis intent on regaining his lost name.
Can Iris solve the case and try not to mess up her private life again?
The story comes in Iris’s first-person POV.

My Thoughts:
I was happy to see the next book in the series set during Christmas. Walden does sound good in winter. The festival doesn’t have a major role in the plot, though. Don’t look for a proper Christmas mystery here.
As always, we have to deal with a large cast of recurring characters and new ones related to the case. While the book works as a standalone, it can be overwhelming to remember who is who without prior knowledge. I enjoyed the presence of the recurring characters, though not all.
The pacing is steady, and we get a clue or tidbit as the story progresses. How it fits the bigger picture is for us to guess. There are a few lighthearted moments too, which I quite enjoyed.
The mystery started out well with a couple of subplots to thicken the plot. However, the reveal could have been better. No issues with who the killer is but I did want the method of solving the mystery to be more detail-based.
I like how the social situation of the period is woven into the plot. With many characters in business and politics, we get more than enough feel of the time.
While I like Iris’s determination to do the right thing when it comes to the cases she solves, her disregard for ethics in her personal life is worrying. Sorry but not sorry. No amount of feminist talk can make her look good in this aspect. Her pathetic track record in men has to break somewhere.
That said, I am excited for the next book and hope a scandal knocks sense into her silly mind. The MC could do with a reality check about her life. At the same time, I want the nemesis to be put in place. He shouldn’t get away for what he did (is doing).

To summarize, A Corpse in Christmas Close is a decent addition to the series even if isn’t the best. The book does take the story forward, so I’m hoping the next one will be a much better read.
Thank you, NetGalley and Boldwood Books, for eARC. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the book.

A Corpse in Christmas Close comes in as the fifth in the Iris Woodmore Mysteries and the first I've read by this author.

Set in the roaring twenties, the age of jazz and the flapper, Salter delights us with a delightful cosy mystery where historical fact and fiction come together as one.

The characters are solid and I'm looking forward to reaquainting with them in future books. Main character Iris is one of those unforgettable characters, she's headstrong, feisty and so easy to become invested in.

I had hoped for a little more Christmas, but that soon fell by the way the further I delved into the plot.

An enjoyable and entertaining read that's definitely piqued my interest in the author's previous works.

BLOG TOUR REVIEW

Review for 'A Corpse In Christmas Close' by Michelle Salter.

This is the third book I have read by this author. I have also read 'Murder At Waldenmere Lake' which is the second book in the 'Iris Woodmore Mysteries' series and 'Murder At Merewood Hospital' which is a standalone and I would highly recommend them both!!

This book is yet another successful unputdownable mystery by the very talented Michelle Salter. I'm always a bit dubious with books based historically as I worry about not being able to 'deal' with the language used but I absolutely love how Michelle has written her books. The language used is perfectly suited to the era whilst being easy to read and making it quite humorous on several occasions. The atmosphere and descriptions were perfect. The synopsis and cover also suit the storyline.


The storyline had me hooked immediately and I love the way that Iris goes about her detective work. There was so much going on that it kept me entertained thoroughly throughout with mystery after mystery and clue after clue. I absolutely adored the historical aspects of the book especially the information that Michelle includes in her author's notes so make sure when you grab your copy you read that too!!! I really enjoyed the festive aspects of the storyline and regardless of the fact this book is a cosy mystery it still put me in the Christmas spirit regardless of the fact it is only August. This is actually my first Christmas book of the year and it's made me want to read more now!!! This would be a great book to read in December but it is still perfect to read any time!! I was fascinated by Michelle's evocative storytelling especially the educational historical details and facts of the war. The storyline itself was filled with mystery, suspense, murder, clues, tension, history and so much more!! It is absolutely perfect to read either curled in front of the fire or lying on a beach which not many books can achieve. I never did work out who the killer was and was completely shocked when they were discovered. A great achievement as I am a huge crime fan and tend to work out who did what quite early on. The atmosphere was perfectly suited to the mystery. I have thoroughly enjoyed getting into this series and managed to read this book in one sitting and I absolutely loved all the shocks that Michelle filled the book with that managed to get me each and every time. I wont say anymore about that as I don't want to spoil anything for future readers by giving too much away. The storyline was intriguing and I enjoyed reading about the history of the war and how it effected the different characters along with the history in general. I would liken the speed of this book to a roller-coaster where it starts off slowly as it builds up and then once it hits a certain point you are at the top of the coaster and start travelling at speed with twists, turns, some slow parts and others faster until you hit the ending which is not quite what you would expect!! Another absolutely addictive read from this fantastic author!!

Although this is the third book in the series I had absolutely no problems reading it without and of the others. Any details or events that have previously happened are mentioned in just the right amount of detail to let a new reader know what has happened and yet not too much to bore a previous reader. However, I would recommend reading it in order as I do with most book series and I'm looking forward to going back and reading the previous books.


There was a fantastic selection of characters that I met in this book along with our main protagonist Iris. I was fascinated watching the character development from the start to the end of this book although with it being told from multiple perspectives the characters aren't quite as developed for me as they were in Michelle's Iris Woodmore Mysteries series but I still got to know who was who as much as the story needed. There are several suspects so it is hard to say to much about the characters and how I felt about them as things changed throughout the book. Regardless of how I felt about them Michelle's fantastic writing skills and descriptions brought them and the storyline to life and I'm looking forward to reading more books by in her Iris Woodmore series as well as her stand-alones.


Make sure you read to the very end of the book to read the first chapter of Michelle's 'A Killing At Smuggler's Cove' that promises to be just as intriguing as this page turner!

Overall an addictive and easy to read page turning murder mystery with the perfect amount of crime and history that will keep you turning the pages.

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Historical mysteries are my absolute favorite to read, and I’m delighted to have found a new to me series – Iris Woodmore series by Michelle Salter. I listened to the audiobook version of the newest entry to the series: A Corpse in Christmas Close (The Iris Woodmore Mysteries Book 5) and loved it so much. While I had no issues following along even though I’m new to the series, you can bet I am headed back to the start so I can catch up.

I loved visiting Winchester during Christmas time and following Iris along as her journalist’s eye for truth investigated not one, but two murders. The writing was vivid, bringing to life both the time period and the characters. The details are cozy and the mystery perplexing. I followed the clues but did not guess the ending at all. I love it when that happens. An enjoyable, fast-paced read.

I am addicted to historical mysteries and this author is excellent with her historical world building in 1920. Sentiments are high from the ravages of war and Iris is determined to find out what happened to her mother.

Mystery, suspense and excellent characters will have you turning the pages and excited for the next book in this series!

I really wanted to like this book, I love a great Christmas mystery, but it’s so poorly written with a plot full of holes that I cannot recommend it.

This is the fifth book in the Iris Woodmore Mysteries series, but I did not feel lost at any point while reading it. It is a brilliantly written cozy mystery that has a detailed setting, numerous historical descriptions, and fascinating protagonists. I had a great time visiting Winchester during Christmas in 1923; the author really captured a captivating vibe. I highly recommend this to all cozy mystery lovers!

Thank you to Boldwood Books and NetGalley for allowing me to read and review this book.

A Corpse in Christmas Close by Michelle Salter

I received an advance review copy for free thanks to Rachel's Random Resources and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

Blurb

When Iris Woodmore visits Winchester for their annual pantomime, murder is the last thing she expects to find.

And there seems to be no valid reason as to why anyone would want to hurt lead actress, Rachel Lacey – kind and philanthropic, she organized the Christmas performance to raise funds for the Winchester Cathedral Great War Fund.

Determined to uncover the sinister forces at play, Iris and her dear friend Percy embark on a perilous journey through the snow-lined streets of Winchester, where secrets lurk around every corner and danger looms in the shadows.

But as they close in on the truth, they find themselves drawn into a web of deceit and betrayal, where nothing is as it seems and the line between friend and foe blurs dangerously.

My Opinion

A Corpse in Christmas Close is the fifth book in the Iris Woodmore Mysteries series but I have read it as a standalone without issue. From the book it was clear that Iris was a strong and independent woman - she is a journalist and she is determined to learn how to drive.

I enjoyed this festive mystery and I read the majority of the book in one sitting. When the leading lady in the festive pantomime is murdered there are plenty of suspects and Iris finds herself in the middle of the investigation. Following my enjoyment of book 5, this is one of those series that I feel like I have to go back and read in the correct order.

Rating 4/5

A brilliant, 1920s, historical cosy crime thriller,
With so many suspects who could be the killer.
Is it someone from the pantomime?
A lover? A stranger? Who perpetrated the crime?

Iris Woodmore is a journalist and rebel, too,
When she meets the prince what will she do?
And when Cinderella is found dead soon after
It seems the pantomime won't be filled with laughter.

With her friend's brother the chief suspect in the case
Iris needs to investigate, to find what's out of place.
When old enemies return once more as well
There's danger around for all to tell.

A fascinating story with twists galore
As Iris investigates, finding clues and more.
So many surprises as the story starts to unfold
With Iris being resilient, strong and bold.

A great addition to this series, it is true,
I have no hesitation highly recommending it to you!
For my copy of this book I say thank you
As I share with you this, my honest review.

I would like to thank netgalley and Boldwood Books for a free copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.

Poor writing.

I'm reviewing this via NetGalley, as part of a tour with Rachel's Random Resources.

This is the fifth book in the Iris Woodmore mysteries series. I enjoy this series and have read all of the previous books.

This is a cosy murder mystery set in the 1920. It felt quite festive and wintry, and it was entertaining. I also found it very light and easy to read, with a few surprising plot twists.

I always enjoy Iris as a protagonist, as she's quite assertive and speaks her mind. Having read all of the previous books, I've grown fond of some of the other characters too. I think that readers may still enjoy this, even if they hadn't read the previous books, but I would recommend the whole series.

Thank you to NetGalley, Rachel's Random Resources, Boldwood Books, and to the author, for the opportunity to read and review this.

Iris reports on the Prince of Wales's visit to Winchester in 1923 when the leading lady of a charity pantomime dies in suspicious circumstances. The involvement of a friend's brother means Iris needs to find out what happened. The historical setting evokes the 1920s, the war's aftermath, women's emancipation, and the living in the moment, which define this story. The story has a festive feel, and there is a chance to see how the regular cast of characters' lives have progressed. Iris remains driven, independent, and impulsive, which puts her in danger and makes her someone you invest in. I like the characters, the friendships, the humour, and the mystery in this festive episode of the Iris Woodmore Mysteries.

I received a copy of this book from the publisher.

A Corpse in Christmas Close is the latest thrilling installment in the Iris Woodmore series of historical cozy mysteries. While this book could be easily read as a standalone - plenty of context is given throughout - it is even more enjoyable if you have read the previous books.

Set in late winter 1923, newspaper reporter Iris is sent to the city of Winchester to cover a royal visit. Between engagements, Iris and another reporter stumble upon a corpse discovered outside the church hall in Christmas Close. It's not immediately clear if this death is murder or suicide so Iris's investigative instincts immediately come to the fore in pursuit of the truth!

This is a properly twisty cozy mystery with great atmosphere, attention to historical detail and fantastic characters. Thank you to Netgalley and Boldwood Books for the review copy.

I just loved this book and once I started reading it, I just couldn’t stop, as it’s such a good book and it’s such a great read. I just loved all the characters in this book and can’t wait until the next book in this series.

I would highly recommend reading this book if you love a cozy mystery and a great story.

I would like to thank Boldwood Books and NetGalley for giving me the opportunity to read and review this book early.

Lately I have been reading and enjoying many historical mystery novels set in the 1920s (they are my new favourite genre) so I am always looking for new ones to read and the Iris Woodmore Mysteries series is the latest one and I am already looking forward to reading more by its author.

Even though I really enjoyed A Corpse in Christmas Close, I wish I had read the previous books in the series first, not only because, based on this fifth book, I am sure I would have appreciated them as much, but also because there is some backstory that left me confused at times. Overall, A Corpse in Christmas Close is an engaging and fabulous read. I loved the atmosphere and the setting, the plot and the mystery, and the variety of characters.

The story is set in Winchester, right before Christmas, making this my first Christmas novel of the year! The plot is well-developed and historically accurate and I really enjoyed the mystery. It was fun and with quite a few twists and turns and, even though I started to suspect some of the truth behind the murder of the lead actress of a local pantomime before it was revealed, there were still a few surprises to keep me immersed in the story.

The cast of characters is very intriguing and the main protagonist is particularly interesting: a tenacious and smart woman who doesn’t let conventions or other people stop her from discovering the truth. I am really looking forward to reading more of her adventures, especially because the ending promises more mysteries and dilemmas!

It's #BlogTour day for #ACorpseInChristmasClose by Michelle Salter https://www.justbooktalk.com/2024/08/a-corpse-in-christmas-close-iris.html
@rachelsrandomresources @theboldbookclub

A Corpse on Christmas Close is another charming addition to her Iris Woodmore series, set in 1920s England, with the Christmas pantomime and its cast at the centre of the murder of the leading lady. There are plenty of suspects and clues for Iris to follow, but Freddie is most in need of her sleuthing as he is the prime suspect.
Iris gets caught up in a tangled thread and plenty of red herrings as she unravels the events before the murder.
There is quite a bit of humour sprinkled throughout the story. I particularly enjoyed the scene where she meets the Prince of Wales. It was cute and funny.

Iris is a modern working woman, being a newspaper journalist, and she has an equally modern love life to match it. She isn't obsessed with finding a husband and having babies which is refreshing to read. She is young and has fun getting to know men and enjoying flirtations. She has loyal male friends and maybe that's where the lightning bolt of love will eventually strike.

A Corpse on Christmas Close will appeal to fans of cozy mysteries and historical fiction. With its engaging characters, engaging plot, and festive setting, it's the perfect book to curl up with on a cold winter's day.

I recommend reading this great series in the correct order for best enjoyment and to get to know the recurring characters.

Iris Woodmore is back in investigative mode after a body is found in Christmas Close. On the day the Prince of Wales visits Winchester, Iris is sent to cover the event. But the death of a pantomime player takes precedence, and Iris finds herself involved in the case. As a friend of the family is pulled in for questioning, Iris feels she must try and find the truth. If only to clear her friend. But the reappearance of her nemesis makes life more difficult and she must keep herself safe whilst helping others.

This story was set in 1923, and the scars of the First World War are still evident. Some people will be haunted by it for many years to come. I enjoy the historical aspect of these books and the fact that the realities of war are not covered up.

Iris is a strong and independent woman and unusual for her time. She’s a female journalist and finds she has to push against prejudice at every turn. We are reminded that only some women have the vote at this time and the fight for equality is still ongoing.

The mystery is compelling and well written, with interesting characters. Iris is wonderful, but the people around her really add to the story, and I enjoy reading about them too. There are more than a few surprises and some worrying moments for Iris. She takes risks and is determined. But her personality is such that people trust her and she gets them to reveal themselves. An ideal strength for a journalist and investigator. A great story.

Iris is a news reporter struggling to make a name for herself in what is still very much a man's world. When she learns of the death of an actress from the local charity pantomime – and learns that her friend's brother is the chief suspect, she is determined to investigate… and maybe get a real story for the newspaper at the same time.

The book blurb on NetGalley sounded intriguing and I'm always looking for new authors to follow, so I requested the book. I wish I'd known then that this is the fifth book in an ongoing series, but series information was not listed on either NetGalley or Goodreads at the time.

Probably because the book is well into an ongoing series, I had a hard time getting into the story. I didn't know the characters well, or their backstories and relationships with one another, which made it hard to care very much about any of them. The story was well-written, and I would likely have enjoyed it more if I'd started the series from the beginning.

The mystery was good with several suspects to think about, but not knowing the characters very well, it was hard to narrow down my mental list. I wasn't able to figure out the solution, but with the information given within this book, I wasn't surprised when the killer was revealed. Even the motive made sense, given that character's identity.

I might go back and start this series from the first book, but I haven't decided yet, and it may depend on the book's availability through my local library system.

Thank you so much to NetGalley and Michelle Salter for providing me with a complimentary digital ARC for A Corpse in Christmas Close coming out August 24, 2024. The honest opinions expressed in this review are my own.

I have a couple books in the series, but this is the first one I’ve read. I really love historical murder mysteries. I thought this was a solid cozy book. It took a little time to get into the book, but it was definitely fast-paced after that. I wasn’t a huge fan of the ending. I’m assuming there will be future books, but things weren’t as resolved as I thought they would be, even for a series book. I wasn’t totally on board with some of the choices Iris makes. It didn’t feel as cozy if she’s in an affair. Hopefully things improve on that front. I would check out more books by this author!

The Plot
Set in the 1920’s, Iris, a reporter living in Winchester investigates the death of a woman who is playing Cinderella in the Christmas pantomime.
The Review
This was the first book I had read in this series, but I found it easy to get to know Iris and her world because of the anecdotes as to what has happened in the previous novels. Iris is a bit of a rebel when it comes to playing by societies rules, a woman after my own heart. Her own personal story made me want to read the books from the start of the series. The book had some excellent historical detail, and the way that drugs were used by WW1 soldiers was an area I was unfamiliar with. The plot had an interesting opening and I was willing Iris along to find some clues. She seemed to find out a lot of information through conversations. I would have liked to see a bit more action, especially through the middle of the book and clues being discovered in different ways to make it more exciting.
There were a lot of different characters in the novel and some came across more strongly than others, although there may be more details provided of the characters in the earlier books. As for the ending, it had some suspense and a great plot twist, which held my interest.