Murder at Everham Hall by Benedict Brown

*** Review ***

Benedict Brown’s Murder at Everham Hall marks the beginning of a delightful new series, the Marius Quin Mysteries, and what a splendid start it is! Set in the wintery landscape of December 1927, this cozy mystery is a treasure trove of lively wit, quirky characters, intricate mysteries, and clever storytelling. From the moment I picked it up, I felt an instant connection and was riveted to each page, occasionally giggling out loud at the playful humor. Such captivating books as this are pure joy!

Marius Quin, the protagonist, is a mystery writer with a previous bestseller but is now haunted by writer’s block and looming mortgage payments. Desperate for inspiration, he happens upon his dear childhood friend and ex-girlfriend, Lady Isabella Montague, who invites him to a New Year’s Eve party at Everham Hall. Thus begins a tale of intrigue and suspense. When the party’s host, the narcissistic actor Cecil Sinclair, is found murdered, Marius, with Bella at his side, takes on the role of an amateur detective. Together, they delve into the secrets and lies of the party’s guests, determined to unveil the killer hidden among them.

Brown’s writing style is quick, smart, and humorously engaging, making it a pleasure to immerse oneself in the story. The historical elements of the novel are believable, adding depth and authenticity to the narrative. Brown has a knack for grabbing the reader’s attention and holding it throughout the book, a talent he has consistently demonstrated in his previous works. This book firmly establishes him as an auto-read author for me.

The story is not just about the murder mystery but also explores the complexities of relationships and unrequited love. Marius’s lingering affection for Bella, whom he last saw a decade ago, adds a layer of depth and emotion to the narrative, making it all the more captivating.

As the investigation unfolds, the plot takes several unexpected turns, keeping readers guessing about the identity of the murderer. The snowed-in setting at Everham Hall, with a group of potential suspects glaring malevolently at each other, creates a tense and mysterious atmosphere. The story culminates in a classic drawing room scene, complete with Marius’s triumphant revelation, which adds a satisfying touch to the conclusion.

However, it’s worth noting that while the book is a quick and engaging read, some readers may not warm up to Marius Quin as the main character. The writing style, while witty and entertaining, might not resonate with everyone. Still, if you enjoy Christmas cozy mysteries set in snowed-in country houses with a touch of romance and a plot that keeps you guessing, Murder at Everham Hall is sure to appeal to your reading preferences.

In a final touch of charm, Brown includes a chapter on “Historical Research,” which sheds light on interesting facts and tidbits related to the time period. It also humorously highlights that there was “no such term” as writer’s block in 1927, even though writers of the era likely grappled with the same creative challenges. Murder at Everham Hall is a delightful and entertaining read that will leave you eagerly anticipating more mysteries to be solved by Marius Quin in the books to come.