Julia Seales’ debut novel, A Most Agreeable Murder is a unique blend of historical romantic comedy murder mystery. If that sounds over the top, well it is, and it’s so much fun!
Beatrice Steele is the eldest of three sisters, and has an unusual (and scandalous if anyone knew) interest in murder. Reading about and solving it, not committing it.
When the family attends the annual autumn ball all the talk is about the newcomer to Swampshire, eligible bachelor, Edmund Croaksworth, and his fortune. When Edmund drops dead at the ball, everyone is suspect, luckily there’s a (somewhat) famous detective, Inspector Vivek Drake, at the ball, and Beatrice is set to assist him. With a severe storm keeping everyone confined at Stabmork Park where the ball is taking place, and no way to send for immediate assistance, finding the killer is of paramount importance.
A Most Agreeable Murder had me laughing from page one. As soon as I saw the name of the town, Swampshire, I knew I was going to be in for a treat and I was not disappointed. Swampshire is a place of kooky characters, and equally strange and ridiculous phenomenon, such as killer squelch holes. This was just a ridiculous, fun read that I could not put down. Aside from the quirkiness of the characters, and the silly (but witty) banter, the mystery itself was well written and I didn’t guess who the culprit was (although I kind of hoped and was not disappointed).
A Most Agreeable Murder releases on June 27th 2023. If you love a good mystery, enjoy historical settings, and want a lighthearted, fun read, this book is definitely for you.
Thanks to NetGalley and Random House for providing an ARC copy for review.
Life, Tea, and Everything 