Posts Tagged 'trickery'

A Matter of Murder by Tirzah Price

Genre: Historical Fiction Mystery

When Lizzie’s family decides to go visit her newly married sister, Jane, at her new home, Netherfield, they are expecting a relaxing time in the country. However, that all changes when a long dead body is discovered stuffed up a chimney and no one can think of anyone who has even disappeared from the nearby town in many years. This only offers the locals further proof that Netherfield is cursed, which is why no one wants to work there or stay there overnight. Jane is distressed that the locals do not even want to associate with her in town for fear of the curse. As Lizzy and Darcy begin investigating the mysterious death they find many odd things that do not seem to add up and begin to wonder who could be behind the strange occurences. In order to better get to know the town Lizzy suggests having a ball where everyone can come and see for themselves that Netherfield is not cursed, but then something unexpected happens that makes Jane worry no one will ever want to come there again. Can Lizzy and Darcy find out who the identity of the body is? Will they find out who is actively working against them to keep people away from Netherfield? Will Jane be able to enjoy her newlywed home without fear the town will shun her?

This sequel continues Lizzy and Darcy’s quest to avoid Lady Katherine, who means them harm, but ultimately they end up running into more trouble anyway. The ending is very surprising and satisfying and readers will enjoy the many strong female characters who play a part. Lizzy and Darcy’s relationship continues to develop and grow in a way that everyone can appreciate who has read the original Jane Austen. Fans who enjoyed the other titles by this author will find this one just as captivating while also providing a little bit of closure. Most likely this will not be the end of Lizzy and Darcy mysteries.

Small Favors by Erin A. Craig

Genre: Fantasy

Eighteen-year-old Ellerie has lived her entire life in the small town of Amity Falls, which is protected from monsters by a rudimentary alarm system that was installed around the border by the original town settlers. No one has seen or heard of a monster in many years and many believe it was just an old legend, but when a routine supply run ends in disaster the town is left scrambling as to how to proceed. If they stay within the confines of the town they will run out of supplies and medicine, but if they wander out they run the risk of facing a terrible fate. Meanwhile, a mysterious new young man has begun hanging around the town and has taken an interest in Ellerie. As things begin to fall apart, Ellerie is left to take on more responsibility for her younger sisters and her twin brother proves to be less than trustworthy to help out. Can she trust this new stranger? Is he somehow involved in the town’s new found bad luck? When she has the opportunity to make her wish come true does it come with unacceptable strings?

This engaging story is based on the tale of Rumpelstiltskin, but the characters and setting really add a lot to that original story. Plus, even if you are familiar with Rumpelstiltskin this story is modern enough that you don’t necessarily expect what is going to happen. The motivations of the townspeople are easily explained as resources get more scarce and people become more scared and desperate. The plot takes many unexpected turns as well and not all is explained, which seems to be on purpose as the author wants to leave some things open ended. This open endedness works in this story as it makes it feel more believable and realistic that not all would be perfectly explained or solved by the story’s end. Recommended for anyone looking for something bold and unique.


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