Hello, everyone! I hope you've been following all the excitement around the release of Katie Oliver's Cyanide and Sensibility so far. What about my author interview, which opened the virtual book tour on December 4th? Well, if you've missed it somehow, here is the LINK to enjoy it and hear directly from the author about the creation of her new delightful mystery story. Today I'm especially here to share with you my review of the book. Ready to scroll down and read? No major spoilers ahead, only the typical ramblings of a well-entertained Austen fan. MG
MY REVIEW
In the charming town of Laurel Springs, where delectable pastries tempt the taste buds and Jane Austen's literary legacy lingers, Phaedra Brighton finds herself drawn into a puzzling mystery that threatens to derail her sister's budding patisserie business. When a dark chocolate cupcake laced with cyanide finds its way into the hands of a unsuspecting patron, the town is thrown into a frenzy, and Phaedra, with her sharp intellect and unwavering sense of justice, embarks on a quest to uncover the truth and bring the culprit to justice.
Austen scholar and reluctant sleuth, Phaedra, navigates the intricate web of relationships and hidden agendas, delving into the lives of those connected to the patisserie. As she sifts through clues and questions alibis, she uncovers a trail of resentment, jealousy, and simmering tensions that could have driven someone to resort to murder.
Katie Oliver skillfully blends the charm of Jane Austen's classics with the thrill of a cozy mystery, creating a delightful concoction that will have readers eagerly turning the pages. Phaedra's witty observations, her unwavering determination, and her passion for Jane Austen's world make her an endearing and relatable protagonist.
The supporting characters, each with their own unique personalities and quirks, add depth and intrigue to the story. Hannah, Phaedra's younger sister, is a spirited entrepreneur with a passion for baking, while Mark Selden, the Oxford-educated professor who challenges Phaedra's Austen obsession, provides a dynamic tension that keeps the narrative engaging.
The novel's setting, the picturesque town of Laurel Springs, with its quaint shops and friendly community, further enhances the cozy atmosphere. The inclusion of Scents and Sensibility, an apothecary shop with its rich historical background and knowledge of poisons, adds a touch of intrigue and suspense to the narrative.
Cyanide and Sensibility is a delightful blend of Austenesque charm, cozy mystery, and character-driven storytelling. Phaedra Brighton's journey to uncover the truth is filled with twists and turns, keeping readers guessing until the very end. Fans of Jane Austen, cozy mysteries, and clever heroines will find much to enjoy in this delectable literary treat.
ABOUT THE BOOK
Join us in the charming world of Laurel Springs, where murder is on the menu, and our protagonist, Phaedra Brighton, is ready to serve up justice in the most delectable way possible. In this delightful cozy mystery, Phaedra, lacking a Mr. Darcy in her life, finds contentment in her loving family and loyal cat. As her sister, Hannah, opens a new patisserie, Tout de Sweet, the town is abuzz with excitement. But when a dark chocolate cupcake turns deadly, Phaedra is drawn into a quest to save her sister's reputation and budding business. The question lingers: Who was the intended target, and how far will the culprit go to permanently remove them from the menu?
PURCHASE LINKS
AMAZON | BARNES & NOBLE | PUBLISHER | BOOKSHOP | BOOKBUB | GOODREADS
Katie Oliver is known internationally as a writer of Jane Austen rom-coms with a hint of mystery. In the US and the UK, she is the bestselling author of the Dating Mr. Darcy and Marrying Mr. Darcy series.
WEBSITE | INSTAGRAM | FACEBOOK | X (FORMERLY TWITTER) | BOOKBUB | GOODREADS
