Amateur Sleuthing

Miss Beeton’s Murder Agency by Josie Lloyd is a simply marvellous contemporary cosy crime novel that I thoroughly enjoyed.

Miss Beeton is rather like a modern-day Miss Marple as when a crime occurs, she uses all her powers of amateur sleuthing to investigate. She believes that she will solve the crime quicker than the police.

Although there is a contemporary setting, the novel has a retro feel to it. It feels like a time when life was simpler. The reader feels as if they are in a bygone age of servants, masters and large houses.

Miss Beeton is a very likable heroine. She runs her agency with precision. She is also a (fictional) relative of Mrs Isabella Beeton, of the cook book fame. As an off-shoot, there are recipes included from the famous Mrs Beeton. They certainly tempt the reader’s tastebuds.

All the characters were wonderfully drawn, they were an eclectic mix. I loved the inclusion of Agatha, Miss Beeton’s little dog. She is named after Agatha Christie and really is a character in her own right.

We see the influence of kind hearts on young lives. Miss Beeton is indebted to her childhood housekeeper who offered her love, care and compassion. Her influence remained into adulthood. “The person who felt like home,” is what Miss Beeton declares about her childhood influence. We all need that person in our lives.

I thoroughly enjoyed Miss Beeton’s Murder Agency. It was a delightful tale that would translate perfectly into an early evening television viewing. I can highly recommend it.

I received a free copy via Net Galley. A favourable review was not required. All opinions are my own.

JULIA WILSON