Murder on the French Riviera

Book Review: Murder on the French Riviera by Helena Dixon

Rating: 4 Stars

I recently finished Murder on the French Riviera, the latest installment in Helena Dixon's delightful Miss Underhay series, and I have to say, it was quite the ride! Set against the breathtaking backdrop of the French Riviera in late spring 1936, the novel transports you to sun-soaked beaches and glamorous hotels, where the only thing more shocking than the stunning views is the sudden appearance of a dead body.

The story kicks off when Kitty Underhay, on a mission from Whitehall to find a missing man, arrives in Nice with hopes of enjoying some leisurely poolside time. But, as fate would have it, instead of savoring a perfect croissant, she and her husband Matt stumble upon the lifeless body of Fred Bennett, the very man they were sent to locate. As they navigate through the vibrant yet dangerous world of casinos and suspicious characters, it becomes clear that this is no ordinary murder mystery. With a cast of intriguing suspects—including a wealthy widow and a dubious aristocrat—Kitty and Matt are thrust into an investigation that feels like a high-stakes spy thriller.

What I loved about this book was how it blended the charm of a cozy mystery with a palpable sense of danger. It felt like there was always something lurking just beneath the surface, making each page turn feel more thrilling than the last. Dixon has done an excellent job crafting a well-plotted narrative that keeps you guessing until the end. The tension was definitely ramped up compared to previous entries in the series, which made for an exhilarating read!

Kitty and Matt are wonderful characters that you can't help but root for. Their chemistry and sharp deductive skills shine throughout the investigation, making you feel confident in their abilities—even when the odds seem stacked against them. Plus, the picturesque settings Dixon creates always add an extra layer of enjoyment to each story. This time around, with the ominous shadow of an impending World War II looming over Europe, the stakes feel even higher, enhancing the plot beautifully.

All in all, Murder on the French Riviera is a fabulous episode in the Miss Underhay series and one I highly recommend! If you enjoy a good mystery with a touch of glamour and suspense—especially for fans of Agatha Christie or cozy crime novels—this book is sure to captivate you. So grab your favorite beverage, settle into your favorite reading nook, and prepare for a delightful escape into a world where nothing is quite as it seems!

⚠️This review was written based on personal opinions and experiences with the book. Individual preferences may vary⚠️