In the Deep Dark Forest on Solstice Night: (Holiday Spectacular Story #26)

“In the Deep Dark Forest on Solstice Night”
Dayle A. Dermatis

When I think of Dayle Dermatis, my very first thought is of her manuscripts—which are unique to see. Bookman Old Style, 14-point FTW. Okay, that’s wrong. When I think of Dayle Dermatis, my first thought is pom poms, which she uses to cheer other writers sales. Okay, that’s wrong, too. When I think of Dayle Dermatis, my first thought is of Styx—the band, not the river—not that she can’t turn a good river Styx story when she puts her mind to it.

If you get the idea that she’s one of those writers who is a little larger than life, you’ve got it right. Her fiction is as generous as her spirit, too (and I’m tempted to say it’s as restless, too, but I won’t … oops, now I’ve gone and said it).

Anyway, on to the story, which is a romance wrapped inside a cozy mystery then decorated with a bow made of a liberal slathering of faelore and Welsh landscaping. It’s a story quite easy (and quite delicious) to get lost in. I love the setting. I love the two sleuths. Ash and Rhian are well drawn—the type of people I think it would be fun to get to know. The mystery is compelling in an oddly low-key way, and the end is both satisfying and leaves you wanting more at the same time.

So there you are. How’s that for a spoiler-free review?

If you know Dayle’s work, you will absolutely love “In the Deep Dark Forest on Solstice Night.” If you don’t know her work, you’ll probably love it, too, and then want to read more. So you’re a winner any way you look at it.