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oceanwriter's review against another edition
adventurous
lighthearted
mysterious
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
3.0
The Socialite's Guide to Murder is the first in a new historical cozy mystery series set in an upscale hotel. While I didn't find it to be the strongest start, there is a lot of potential going forward.
Evelyn Elizabeth Grace Murphy is the reclusive daughter of the owner of the Pinnacle Hotel. After a theft and then a murder, Evelyn takes it upon herself to investigate with the help of her 'a bit more than a friend' Mac. This puts her to the test due to her agoraphobia. She pushes herself, making her an admirable character more than just her celebrity style.
This was a cute start to the series and I wouldn't mind picking up the next book, however, the book didn't read too much like a piece of historical fiction. While I enjoyed the mental health element, the terminology was not that of the time the book is set. It was written with a modern mindset/approach, and aside from the general aesthetic of the book, it would have worked just as well in a modern setting give or take a plot point here and there (and dare I say it would work better). Nevertheless, there are redeeming aspects to the story, namely the characters. I enjoyed reading about Evelyn, Henry, and Mac.
Evelyn Elizabeth Grace Murphy is the reclusive daughter of the owner of the Pinnacle Hotel. After a theft and then a murder, Evelyn takes it upon herself to investigate with the help of her 'a bit more than a friend' Mac. This puts her to the test due to her agoraphobia. She pushes herself, making her an admirable character more than just her celebrity style.
This was a cute start to the series and I wouldn't mind picking up the next book, however, the book didn't read too much like a piece of historical fiction. While I enjoyed the mental health element, the terminology was not that of the time the book is set. It was written with a modern mindset/approach, and aside from the general aesthetic of the book, it would have worked just as well in a modern setting give or take a plot point here and there (and dare I say it would work better). Nevertheless, there are redeeming aspects to the story, namely the characters. I enjoyed reading about Evelyn, Henry, and Mac.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Death, Mental illness, Panic attacks/disorders, and Murder
Moderate: Death of parent