This book is a mixed bag. It’s a quick read that allows you to slip into the story quickly, and I found myself warming up to the characters right from the start. James, in particular, stands out as a refreshing presence; he’s a police officer who defies the typical tropes of being reckless, having affairs or constantly drowning in whiskey. Though he may come across as somewhat mundane, I surprisingly enjoyed his character, as well as that of his wife, Annie.

However, the storyline does have its issues. As certain pieces of the plot fell into place, it became increasingly apparent who the real killer was, which somewhat diminished the element of surprise. I'm also disappointed with how quickly the story wrapped up towards the end and how many lose ends remain. I can't believe how quickly James stumbled on the killer with so many potential kills left! 

Nevertheless, I ultimately found it to be an enjoyable read. It perfectly caters to my craving for a light and engaging Christmas thriller, making it an ideal choice for the season.