Review of A Murderous Marriage by Alyssa Maxwell

From the publisher of A Murderous Marriage

Since the Great War, some family fortunes have suffered, including those of the Renshaws. Despite being the granddaughter of an earl, Julia Renshaw is under pressure to marry for money—and has settled for Gilbert Townsend, a viscount and a wealthy industrialist. He is decades older than Julia, and it’s clear to her sister Phoebe—and to Eva, who has been like a surrogate mother to the girls—that this is not a love match. Nevertheless, the wedding takes place—and in a hurry.

At the reception aboard the groom’s yacht, there appears to be tension between Gil and several guests: his best man, a fellow veteran of the Boer War; his grouchy spinster sister; and his current heir, a nervous young cousin named Ernest. The bride is also less than pleased when she discovers that her honeymoon will be more crowded than expected—with Gil’s pretty secretary, among others, coming along.

That very night, Julia pounds on her sister’s door, brandishing a bandaged hand and reporting a hot-tempered outburst on her new husband’s part. Julia is feeling doubt and regret about her hasty decision, but returns to the boat. Then the next morning, before the yacht can depart the harbor, Gil’s body is found in the water below—and Phoebe and Eva must discover who pushed him over . . . before the Renshaws’ social standing is irreparably stained by Julia’s arrest for his murder . . .

My review

Not having read any of the previous books in this series, I didn’t know what to expect. I was pleasantly surprised to be immersed in the post World War I era. From the customs and clothing to the attitudes and actions, the story felt authentic and true.

The lead characters in this story, Phoebe and Eva, are spunky and believable. There was a good deal of rumination for both characters, which was at times a bit much, but it did not feel excessive. Their actions were consistent with their characters, i.e., that of Lady and her maid.

The mystery itself was well-planned and there are sufficient twists to keep the reader guessing. A good read, especially for cozy mystery fans who love history.

FTC Full Disclosure: A review copy of this book was provided by its publisher.