Rating: 🎄🎄🎄🎄
Premiere Date: October 2025
Description: In Mistletoe Murders, Emily Lane (Sarah Drew) runs a charming Christmas shop in Fletcher’s Grove—but behind that warm holiday smile is a secret past. When a series of murders shakes the small town, Emily can’t help using her “previously acquired” investigative skills to help solve them. Along the way, she crosses paths with Detective Sam Wilner (Peter Mooney), whose growing connection with Emily could get complicated once he learns there’s more to her than meets the eye.
Chemistry: The chemistry caught on right off the bat, and bloomed exactly how you want it to at the end of the season. Emily and Sam finally teamed up fully, and—because this is Hallmark—it worked perfectly. And that finale kiss? My wife and I agreed it was one of the best on-screen kisses we’ve seen in ages. Take notes, other Hallmark couples.
Plot: The season as a whole was good, but the final two installments were the best. The scavenger hunt storyline kept things fun and light while the ongoing murder investigation gave it just enough tension. The mystery itself was solid, and I actually did not figure out who the murderer was early, which was a refreshing change.
Design: The set design is all classic Hallmark small town. Quaint shops. Lots of snow. I will say I noticed the snow falling more in the final episodes—but in a good way.
Overall: Season one is good, but do try to make it to the season finale. It’s easily the best of the six episodes and worth the investment. The flashbacks do get repetitive, but hang in there because the payoff in season two is a lot better.
Best Enjoyed With: A plate of Christmas cookies and someone to gasp dramatically.
Holiday Movie Wrap 