Can Mary Solve the Murder of Mr. Collins?

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

Source: Review Copy from Author

TYPE OF NOVEL: Pride and Prejudice Mystery, Secondary Character

SERIES: Miss Mary Investigates #1

NOTE: There is a prequel novella to this book titled The Mystery of the Missing Heiress (which is currently free!) And it is recommended, although not imperative, to read that story before reading this book.

THE PREMISE: Just a few hours after his unsuccessful proposal to Elizabeth Bennet Mr. Collins is found dead. And because of evidence discovered at the scene and Elizabeth’s own injuries and appearance she is accused of his murder. While Mary is ready to do all she can to clear her beloved sister’s name, a detective hired by Mr. Darcy journeys to Meryton with the same purpose. Can these two unite their efforts to save Elizabeth and discover who is the real murderer?

WHAT I LOVED:

• Mary: Not only did I love seeing the spotlight on Mary, I also loved seeing Ms. Everly’s choices with Mary’s character. Because she is often overlooked and neglected, Mary has become quite adept at listening and witnessing all that takes place around her. She is able to make shrewd observations and possesses a remarkably perceptive nature. Instead of being known for sermonizing and stilted accomplishments, this version of Mary repeatedly displays determined bravery, selfless devotion, and open-minded curiosity. She is a true heroine worthy of our admiration.

• Alexander Lyons: What a fascinating new original character! Like a Regency Sherlock Holmes! I marveled to see his skills of deductive reasoning while solving this murder. He is meticulously thorough and astute with a vast knowledge of skills and understanding. I also loved that he is from Scotland and has some rough manners. In addition, an interesting juxtaposition of his character was his open-minded objectivity when working on a case and his sometimes prejudiced mindset against anyone above his station.

• Sleuthing Team: I loved seeing these characters work together, support each others’ efforts, and establish stronger relationships. The rapport and mutual respect that continues to grow between Darcy and Alexander was lovely to witness. And I especially enjoyed seeing the development of Mary and Alexander’s relationship – how it starts off with bad footing and animosity, but later grows in amity and admiration.

• Perfect Balance: This book is a murder mystery, secondary character spotlight story, and a P&P variation all in one! I appreciated how the author placed the mystery and Mary Bennet’s storyline in the foreground and at the same time delivered a romantic storyline between Darcy and Elizabeth as a secondary subplot. Even with the grim murder investigation and mysterious puzzles taking center stage, readers still get to see an ardent and fiercely protective Mr. Darcy.

• Questioning Good and Evil: I enjoyed how the author used the horrendous and grizzly events that were uncovered in this tale as an impetus for Mary Bennet to question her beliefs and faith. Does believing in the doctrines of a religion or church guarantee goodness and morality? It feels like Mary’s character is on the brink of an interesting evolution.

WHAT I WASN’T TOO FOND OF:

• Some Quibbles: There felt like there were a few times where I felt the characters may have acted a little too abruptly or intensely (SPOILER ALERT! For example: Mr. Darcy’s awfully timed and abrupt proposal, when just the day before he learned Elizabeth’s true opinion of him and the tall mountain he has to climb to win her good opinion.) In addition, I couldn’t figure out how and when Alexander injured his hip (is it in the prequel?). After seeing his sudden change of mood and his unexpectedly rude outburst towards Mary, I was wishing I understood what exactly had caused it. And lastly, there sometimes felt like some events were manufactured with less plausibility (Lydia’s part and Wickham’s quickly developed connections and responsibilities). 

CONCLUSION:

With Death of a Clergyman, Riana Everly begins what promises to be a most enthralling and encompassing detective series! I cannot wait to see more of Mary Bennet and Alexander Lyons – the development of both their individual characters, their relationship together, and the mysteries they encounter! Especially since it looks like they might be journeying to Highbury next!!!

Add to Cart   I   Add to Shelf