Everyone This Christmas Has a Secret, A Festive Mystery, A Whodunit Full of Twists and Turns, Perfect for Fall 2024

In *The Murderer’s Christmas*, Benjamin Stevenson returns with a festive twist on his beloved Ernest Cunningham mysteries. As the holiday season approaches, Ernest, an accidental detective with a penchant for Golden Age murder mysteries, finds himself entangled in a web of deception and intrigue backstage at a grand magic show. When the benefactor of world-famous magician Rylan Blaze is found dead, the stage is set for a dazzling whodunit.

Surrounded by a cast of enigmatic suspects, each a master of misdirection—Rylan the magician, his assistant, an executive, a hypnotist, an identical twin, a counselor, and a tech expert—Ernest grapples with clues that are as elusive as the tricks performed on stage. One suspect is covered in blood but has no memory of how it happened, and a murder occurs without anyone entering the crime scene. Amidst the chaos, an advent calendar filled with clues adds a unique twist to the investigation.

As Christmas cheer mingles with suspense, Ernest must navigate the illusions and deceptions to uncover the truth behind the murder. With wit and charm, Stevenson crafts a story that blends festive spirit with thrilling mystery, proving that a good murder is just like a magic trick—filled with unexpected twists and turns. Fans of *Knives Out* and *The Thursday Murder Club* will delight in this cleverly plotted tale, where every revelation feels like pulling back the curtain on a spectacular illusion. 📚❤️