REVIEW: Murder on 34th Street

What do you get when you combine 1930s New York, Macy’s, a death threat and Santa Claus?

A really fun holiday mystery! 

I received the audiobook ALC (advanced listener copy) of Murder on 34th Street by Mariah Fredericks from Minotaur Books in exchange for an honest review. First and foremost, thank you so much for sending this my way!

Set in 1932, this book takes us behind the scenes at Macy’s, where Grace works to keep the famous department store running smoothly.

Just days before the Thanksgiving Day Parade, a death threat arrives for the store’s Santa — and then things take a much darker turn.

My rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

My thoughts on Murder on 34th Street:

I actually really enjoyed how this mystery unfolded. The story starts with something that initially seems completely separate from everything happening at Macy’s, but as it progresses, the pieces really start coming together.

I think this was cleverly done; the setting was fantastic, and I loved getting that glimpse “behind the scenes” of one of New York’s most iconic department stores. Having also visited that Macy’s and Santa’s Village inside it, I could easily put myself there during the story—even if the story was happening almost a century ago. 

This book has that perfect mix of historical mystery, Christmas atmosphere and old-school glamour.

And even though I am firmly in spooky season right now, I would definitely recommend this one for some holiday reading between November and January.

Plus, Murder on 34th Street is obviously a fantastic title for a Christmas mystery. If you can’t see the obvious connection to a classic Christmas movie, then… I can’t help you. 

Question of the day:

What’s your favourite holiday mystery or thriller?