At a glance
Christian romantic suspense
Mistletoe & Murder
Book 1 of the Twin Oaks Christmas series
100 pages · First published 2019
After retiring from the Army, Alec Stratman returns to his hometown of Twin Oaks, Virginia, hoping to determine what comes next in his civilian life. Instead, he arrives to devastating news: his beloved great-aunt Heloise has been murdered. For Isabella Montoya, Heloise's death means losing far more than a former employer. The elderly woman had become a cherished mentor, encouraging Isabella's dreams and helping finance her education. Now Isabella is a suspect in the murder investigation, and her future is threatened by accusations she cannot seem to escape. Remembering the warm letters his great-aunt wrote about Isabella, Alec refuses to believe she is responsible. As they work together to uncover the truth, a growing attraction complicates their search for answers—and the killer may not be finished. Set against the Christmas season in Virginia's Shenandoah Valley, this Christian romantic suspense novella will appeal to readers who enjoy holiday mysteries, military heroes, amateur sleuths, faith-centered romance, and unexpected love amid danger.
Cranberry Carol Punch + Mulled Wine
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No surprises at chapter twelve
Content notes
Murder, grief following the death of a beloved relative and mentor, suspicion of an innocent person, a criminal investigation, and life-threatening danger from a killer. Romantic attraction and a developing relationship.
Alcohol-Free Pour
Cranberry Carol Punch
Cranberry, orange, and sparkling water bring a festive touch to Twin Oaks, where holiday celebrations take an unexpected turn toward murder and romance.
What you'll need
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.How to mix it
- Combine the noncarbonated ingredients in a glass or shaker and stir or shake until mixed. Pour over ice, top with any carbonated ingredient, and stir gently.
- Garnish: Use a matching citrus wheel, berry, or herb from the recipe when available.
- Glassware: Highball glass.
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Highball glass ↗Cocktail shaker ↗Cocktail Pour · 21+
Mulled Wine
For adults of legal drinking age. Please drink responsibly.
Warm red wine, orange, and Christmas spices offer a comforting contrast to the murder mystery unfolding in Virginia's Shenandoah Valley.
What you'll need
- 1 bottle (750 ml) dry red wine
- 1 orange, sliced ↗
- 2 cinnamon sticks ↗
- 4 whole cloves ↗
- 2 star anise ↗
- 2 tbsp honey or sugar, adjusted to taste ↗
How to mix it
- Combine all ingredients in a saucepan. Warm gently over low heat for 15–20 minutes, without boiling. Taste and adjust sweetness. Strain into heatproof mugs. Makes about 5 servings.
- Garnish: Orange slice.
- Glassware: Heatproof mug.
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