Lesleykluchin

Hooray! A wonderful cozy mystery with interesting, intelligent characters. I love that the protagonists are are over 40 and have some life experience and acquired wisdom. I also think the setting is gorgeous. But mostly I enjoy a pleasant plot, murder(s) that aren't so gory that I have to turn away. I enjoy the dialogue between the main characters and I enjoy their logic and maturity as well of their fondness for one another. PLEASE make more seasons. I don't need blood and gore. I prefer intellectual dramas with good acting. And the romance is lovely. It's quite a marvelous show! I want to see more.

This was such a lovely story. I saw it originally when it first came out and almost a decade later went searching to find it again because it left me with a such a hauntingly beautiful memory. I have been so disappointed lately that everything on the Hallmark channel is so saccharine sweet and unrealistic. Especially during the holidays. As a Jewish woman it is so difficult to find anything about people of my faith. I was first drawn to this film because Leah is my Hebrew name. But, I found it tender, charming, and despite some of the stereotypical characters, (Like Leah's mother) the protagonists were three dimensional, real characters that gave an excellent performance with depth and sensitivity.

I wish I knew why all the Jewish characters have disappeared so completely from the Hallmark channel. In the mid 2000's their movies were about a wide range of diverse cultures and they even attempted to put out some lovely period pieces. Now it is always boy meets girl and everyone goes to a small town for Christmas.

Thankfully, they have added a few African American characters to the mix, but people of my faith have all disappeared from their programming. That is why this is such a hidden gem. I had to go to Youtube to find it again. Why can't Hallmark mysteries have a Jewish detective? Or a heroine who celebrates Chanukah now and then? I love the Hallmark channel because I like happy endings, but lately it is like I am watching the same movie over and over again. I want a little drama with unique characters that are realistic.

This film represents a woman finding herself, embracing her faith in a new found manner, exploring her intellectual capabilities and falling in love all while discovering herself. I loved it. I only wish the Hallmark channel would continue making movies this good.