Murder on 34th Street takes place in 1930s New York City during the holiday season as Macy’s store employees are preparing for the legendary Thanksgiving Day Parade. Santa Claus — or the man who will play Santa Claus for the parade and inside the store at Christmastime — receives a threatening anonymous note.

The note is shown to Grace Verlander, the assistant to the human resources manager. Verlander, like many assistants, runs the place, and finds herself trying to stop disaster from happening and, later, trying to solve a murder.

Those who love New York City, large historic department stores, parades, Christmas, and a good mystery will enjoy this book. When I first began reading, I was afraid the story would be predictable, as many murder mysteries are. However, this one was full of twists and turns and surprises. Several times while reading, my hunches about the identity and motive of the murderer were proven wrong and new hunches emerged. In the end, I was completely surprised. That is the mark of a good mystery!

Author Mariah Fredericks is a masterful storyteller. The banter between store personnel, the backstories woven throughout, the plot twists, and the interesting historical context make the book engaging. There is even a bit of a romance brewing as the mystery is unfolding. Additionally, some heartwarming exchanges between characters are sprinkled throughout the story, as it takes place during the Depression years, a time when people, including those in the book, were experiencing hardship.

So, can a book about something as dark as murder actually help to put the reader into a Christmasy mood? Yes. With Santa, a parade, shoppers, and the bustle of the city during the most festive of seasons, the reader can’t help but feel Christmas cheer, even while there is a murder — or maybe more than one – going on. I always enjoy reading a good Christmas book during this time of year and this one did not disappoint.

Murder on 34th Street, published by Minotaur Books, was released on October 6.

Quotable Quote: Maroon is the brunette’s best friend.

Character I would like to meet up with for lunch: Raymond, the store’s window dresser.

Elevator Pitch: While New Yorkers are celebrating Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, a murder mystery begins, with multiple suspects, intrigue, Santa, some elves, and likeable characters.

Best season to read this book: It is perfect for fall or winter, especially during the Christmas season, but it would be a fun read any time of the year.

What to eat while reading this book: Doughnuts are mentioned several times in the story, and would be perfect while reading this book and trying to solve the mysteries. Don’t forget the hot chocolate.