Book Reviews: Jingle Bells, Rifle Shells by Bruce Hammock

Written By Elena Jagar

Looking for a cozy mystery to curl up with this season? I loved "Jingle Bells, Rifle Shells". Steve Smiley, a brilliant blind private investigator, is partnered with the young and quick-witted lawyer, Heather McBlythe. The duo springs into action when a rifle shot disrupts their holiday shopping, and a famous big-game hunter meets an untimely end. He leaves behind his beautiful adopted daughter, Bella, and too many troubling questions about the manner of her adoption.

I really enjoyed this mystery for the heartfelt bond between Smiley and McBlythe. Their relatable struggles and genuine mentor-companion relationship add a layer of warmth to the suspenseful storyline. Wondering about Bella's mysterious origins kept me turning the pages into the night. 📚🕵️‍♂️

“Jingle Bells, Rifle Shells” is book 1 in the Smiley and McBlythe mystery series and is currently free.

You can find this mystery here.

Happy reading!

Elena Jagar

About Willow Wren Books

Welcome to Willow Wren Books, the home of my two pen names, Elena Jagar and Tessa Kelly. Let me give you a glimpse into what this literary hub is all about.

Elena Jagar:

Elena is an award-winning author of THE RAINBOW WEAVER'S APPRENTICE for middle-grade readers.

Elena's writing spans several genres, and she believes that a good story is made up first and foremost of great characters, ones that are relatable and interesting enough to stay with the reader long after the book is closed. She hopes her young readers come away from her books feeling that nothing is impossible.

When not writing, Elena enjoys horseback riding, tai chi, smelling the flowers, and petting bumblebees. Currently living overseas teaching English, Elena looks forward to having a garden and a menagerie of pets when she finally settles down in one place.

Tessa Kelly:

With a background in teaching and a degree in French, I've spent several years immersed in the unique atmosphere of uptown Brooklyn. Drawing inspiration from my experiences, I create novels that reflect the vibrancy of the neighborhoods, cafes, and coffee houses. Having worked in a bakery, much like the one featured in my novels, I developed a lasting fondness for cheesecake brownies. Beyond writing, I'm an avid explorer of hiking trails, passionate about baking, learning foreign languages, and experimenting with natural plant dyes.

Willow Wren Books is the space where the worlds of Elena Jagar and Tessa Kelly converge, offering a diverse collection of stories. Thank you for joining me on this literary journey.

https://www.willowwrenbooks.com
Previous

Book Review: Winterling by Sarah Prineas
Next

Behind the Scenes: Crafting Compelling Middle-Grade Narratives