Publishers Weekly
08/09/2021
Agatha Award–winner Andrews’s fast-moving, high-spirited 30th Meg Langslow mystery (after Murder Most Fowl) finds witty Meg preparing to host her large extended family at her home in Caerphilly, Va., for the Christmas holidays. Unfortunately, she’s hampered by a sprained ankle, two wombats in the basement, and flocks of birds in the library. The birds were released from their cages by an unwanted houseguest, wildlife artist and “misogynistic jerk” Roderick Castlemayne, who’s in Caerphilly to illustrate the new book by Meg’s grandfather, an eminent naturalist and the owner of the zoo from which the furry and feathered guests have been brought to serve as models for the artist’s illustrations. When someone plunges a Swiss army knife into Castlemayne’s throat, the only people who are sorry to see him go seem to be the legions to whom he owes money. Ex-wives, bill collectors, and process servers are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to suspects. This Christmas romp, complete with a litter of adorable puppies, will certainly please fans and newcomers alike. Andrews consistently entertains. Agent: Ellen Geiger, Frances Goldin Literary. (Oct.)
From the Publisher
Praise for Donna Andrews and the Meg Langslow Mystery Series:
"Agatha Award–winner Andrews’s fast-moving, high-spirited 30th Meg Langslow mystery finds witty Meg preparing to host her large extended family at her home in Caerphilly, Va., for the Christmas holidays...This Christmas romp, complete with a litter of adorable puppies, will certainly please fans and newcomers alike. Andrews consistently entertains." —Publishers Weekly on The Twelve Jays of Christmas
"A guaranteed good read....plenty of laughs, interesting bird facts, and family member shenanigans." —Fresh Fiction blog on The Twelve Jays of Christmas
"Andrews lays on the good cheer with a trowel." —Kirkus Reviews on The Gift of the Magpie
"Caerphilly, with its endearing residents, is the kind of place every cozy fan would like to escape to during stressful times. Andrews consistently entertains." —Publishers Weekly on The Gift of the Magpie
"Andrews deftly juggles franchise characters, newbies, red herrings, Renaissance tidbits, and murder most welcome." —Kirkus Reviews on The Falcon Always Wings Twice
“Exceptional....[with] plenty of twists and turns en route to the satisfying ending. As always, spending time with Meg and her wonderful family is a delight. Andrews reinforces her place at the top of the cozy subgenre." —Publishers Weekly on Owl Be Home for Christmas
“One of Andrews’ most successful balancing acts between creating a brand-new whodunit and showcasing her zany regulars.” —Kirkus Reviews on Owl Be Home for Christmas
"This quirky, long-running cozy series shows no signs of losing steam." —Publishers Weekly on The Falcon Always Wings Twice
“With its well-spun plots and distinctive characters, Andrews’s amusing avian-named series shows no signs of growing stale.” —Publishers Weekly
"Fans will find all the beloved hallmarks of this award-winning series: fresh characters, an engaging puzzle, and delightful humor.” —Library Journal