This time around the Secret Bookcase bookstore is hosting a gingerbread house competition, with celebrity host, baking influencer Lily. Really, what could be more Christmassy than a decorate bookstore and gingerbread? The event is going well, with only a bit of minor drama, until Annie finds Lily’s dead body. Of course she’s been murdered, and Annie decides to start investigating, assuming the woman was poisoned. At least the local police detective/ Annie’s mentor appreciates her efforts and insights. This is a series where the main character and the authorities work well together.

I like Annie. She’s smart and has made a couple life decisions that have been weighing on her for a book or two. This is the fourth in the series and does pick up strands from the previous installments. I’m not sure how I feel about her love interest, Liam, yet. I think he’s supposed to be sweet and caring, but he totally overreacted a time or two. Turns out he had reason, but not based on the information he knew. The bookstore is fabulous! I wish I could visit and stop for a coffee at Pri, Annie’s best friend’s, coffee shop.

The killer was a bit obvious, even with a couple red herrings and potential suspects thrown in. We’ve also got an overarching mystery surrounding the murder of Scarlet, Annie’s best friend, years ago. Annie gets a potential break through here, but I’m not a big fan of the plotline. I really like each cozy mystery to be self-contained.

I listened to this on audio, as I do so many of the books I read. The narrator was good. She kept the tone light and distinguished the characters well.