2024 Reading Challenge

2024 Reading Challenge
Jill Elizabeth has read 1 book toward her goal of 285 books.
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2023 Reading Challenge

2023 Reading Challenge
Jill Elizabeth has read 5 books toward her goal of 265 books.
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Book Review: A Death of No Importance by Mariah Fredericks

I really enjoyed this one… I like above-stairs/below-stairs stories, and have long been a firm believer in the old adage that “servants see everything” (or, more aptly put, “those who go largely ignored in society see more than they are given credit for”). There were just enough twists to keep things interesting, particularly when coupled with the behind-the-scenes social dynamics and interactions of early twentieth century New York. Jane is a great protagonist; she’s clever and underappreciated and just this side of naive in a way that made her a delightful narrator. The high society (established and nouveau) surrounding her was fun to witness through her eyes, and I liked the dynamic with Michael.

It was playful and fun without overt and obvious romance; even if they wind up there eventually (which seems likely), I liked that this initial foray didn’t fall into tropes… The one thing I thought felt a little forced was the anarchist angle – I get it, it played a huge part in the overall mystery, but the convenience of her being friends with Anna before it all began felt a little too convenient. It didn’t detract from my enjoyment, but it didn’t add anything either…

All in all this was a pleasant historical mystery with an entertaining and clever heroine, and I enjoyed it for what it was. I caught the throwaway reference to “other mysteries” in her life which I took to indicate that more books are coming; I say hooray to that, and am looking forward to seeing what befalls her next!

My review copy was provided by NetGalley.

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