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There are currently 39 reader reviews for A Simple Murder
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Marlys D. (Grand Rapids, MI)
A Simple Murder
I liked this book well enough, but did not think it was exceptional. I questioned whether the action & dialogue were appropriate to the time period. Also, the ending felt a bit too much like Nero Wolfe transported back in time. That said, it was an easy, enjoyable read.
Carol P. (Mendham, NJ)
Good Mystery
I was interested to read a Simple Murder due to the time period it took place -1796. I did find the mystery of the murder, the main character's sleuthing skills and the characters in the story interesting however I did not feel immersed in the time period. I was also disappointed in the ending which was very abrupt. I did not experience the resolution I expected to tie up all the characters in the story. I would recommend this book to young adults. The author did write a clever mystery. I would have loved to have the author bring more of this extraordinary time period after the Revolution into the story.
Jennifer F. (Saratoga, CA)
Intriguing mystery with unsatisfying ending
A Simple Murder was a unique book in that it was set within a Shaker community in the early 1800s. The characters were believable and interesting and the plot was compelling, but I felt the author lost ground with an ending that didn't live up to the rest of the book.
Rosemary T. (San Antonio, TX)
A Simple Murder
An unusual "who done it" which occurs in an unlikely setting. Although the storyline did hold my interest, I had some trouble keeping all the characters straight and felt that some of the key players could have been developed better. The ending left me wondering if the author plans a sequel.
Leslie D. (Le Roy, NY)
Simple language needed
An interesting premise and unusual setting are marred by cliched language and repetitive phrasing. Better editing could have made this a stronger entry in new mysteries, especially considering that the subject--the simple Shaker life--would work much better with straightforward telling. Readers who like Amish mysteries would be drawn to this for its similarities, so this is an author to watch.
Judith M. (San Diego, CA)
Simplistic Summer Read
Although the writing and story were somewhat simplistic, I still enjoyed reading this first novel. The characters are now introduced (the ending was a little trite) and are poised to begin what will likely be a series. I'm not sure of the historical integrity, perhaps the author should dig a little deeper into the historical aspect to give it more a feel of authenticity. Overall, it was a quick read and entertaining. I would definitely encourage the author to try a sequel.
Cheryl K. (East Aurora, NY)
"Shaky" Mystery
I have so much admiration for a first-time novelist, particularly a mystery writer. Unfortunately, I found the story very difficult to follow. The characters could have been more fully-developed, and seemed to use the same phrases repeatedly. The ending was abrupt and almost contrived. I would not recommend this book to book club friends.
Donna N. (casa grande, AZ)
An interesting start to a new series
I found this to be a light enjoyable mystery with an interesting setting. The story kept my attention and the characters were ones that I found appealing; however, I did think the characters were more modern than historically accurate. In the beginning I felt that some of the writing was not smooth and the dialog somewhat simple. It would not be on my recommended list, but I would like to see a sequel and would read the next book. I think the author's writing will definitely improve.
