The Mystery Guest by Nita Prose

*** Review ***

Nita Prose’s The Mystery Guest takes us back to the world of Molly Gray, the endearing protagonist from the author’s previous work, The Maid. In this standalone novel, Molly is no longer just the Regency Grand Hotel’s meticulous maid; she has climbed the ranks to become the esteemed Head Maid. We follow her through another thrilling murder mystery, uncovering her past and witnessing her detective skills sharpening. Though this installment may have a cozier feel, it still brings its unique charm and witty humor to the table.

Molly Gray’s character has matured since we last encountered her. She is no longer just a skilled maid but has grown into her role as Head Maid. Her dedication to her job shines through in her detailed handbook, A Maid’s Guide and Handbook to Housekeeping, Cleaning, and Maintaining a State of Pinnacle Perfection. This handbook, full of Molly’s wisdom and sayings, becomes an integral part of the story, almost like its own language, allowing characters to communicate through Molly’s unique words of wisdom.

One of the notable aspects of this book is how Molly’s character continues to evolve. She’s not just a maid; she’s a mentor to her new, introverted maid-in-training, Lily. This development showcases Molly’s growth, emphasizing her resemblance to her beloved Gran, who shaped her into the meticulous and wise maid she has become.

The story revolves around the Regency Grand Hotel, which has prospered in the years following the murder investigation that took place in the first book. Now, they’re unveiling a beautiful new tea room, where J.D. Grimthorpe, a renowned mystery author, plans to make a life-altering announcement to his fans. However, things take a sinister turn when Grimthorpe dies suddenly after drinking a cup of tea served by Lily. The murder investigation begins, and Detective Stark, who has a history with Molly, is back on the case. The tension between Stark and Molly adds an intriguing layer to the story.

Molly, with her unique perspective and knack for details, takes on the role of an amateur detective. She knows more about Grimthorpe than she’s letting on, having crossed paths with him in her childhood when she and her Gran worked at the Grimthorpe mansion. These flashbacks to her past provide a deeper understanding of Molly’s character and the enigmatic Grimthorpe.

The author’s ability to seamlessly interweave past and present narratives adds depth to the story. The dual storylines offer insights into Molly’s upbringing and her close relationship with her grandmother, creating a compelling layer of emotional connection and nostalgia.

One of the charms of The Mystery Guest is its focus on Molly’s wisdom and her humorous witticisms, which often bring a smile to the reader’s face. Molly’s distinctive personality and her capacity to sprinkle her words of wisdom throughout the book make her character truly endearing.

While The Mystery Guest stands alone as a novel, it is best enjoyed after reading The Maid, as it provides essential context and allows the reader to appreciate Molly’s growth and newfound confidence. The cozy mystery elements, with their touch of dark comedy and cleverly placed red herrings, keep the plot engaging and the reader guessing.

In conclusion, The Mystery Guest is a delightful return to the world of Molly the Maid. Nita Prose continues to charm us with her captivating storytelling and lovable characters. The novel may lean more towards a cozy mystery vibe, but it retains its unique charm and intelligent narrative, making it a highly recommended read for fans of Molly’s adventures. Molly’s character continues to shine, and her detective skills evolve, promising more thrilling mysteries to come.