Once Upon a Murder

Book Review: Once Upon a Murder by Samantha Larsen

Rating: 3 Stars

As a fan of historical cozy mysteries, delving into “Once Upon a Murder” by Samantha Larsen was like stepping back in time to 1784 England alongside the determined Miss Tiffany Woodall. The novel follows Tiffany's journey as she navigates through a web of deception and intrigue after stumbling upon the lifeless body, setting off a chain of events that test her resolve and wit.

From the very beginning, Larsen's storytelling drew me in with its blend of mystery, romance, and historical flair. The intricate plot twists kept me guessing as Tiffany raced against the clock to unearth the truth behind the murder and exonerate her beloved.

While I thoroughly enjoyed the well-paced narrative and the abundant red herrings that kept me on my toes, the other women addition turned me off. In addition, Tiffany's character development, though intriguing, felt somewhat subdued compared to her vibrant portrayal in the first Lady Librarian mystery.

Another aspect that proved challenging was keeping track of the numerous relationships among the characters, which added a layer of complexity that might overwhelm readers new to the series. As such, “Once Upon a Murder” is best enjoyed after immersing oneself in its predecessor to fully appreciate the interconnected dynamics at play.

In summary, while this second installment may not reach the heights of its predecessor, it remains a captivating historical cozy mystery that showcases Larsen's skill in crafting intricate narratives. The enduring appeal of the characters and the promise of future adventures leave me eagerly anticipating continuing my journey alongside Tiffany as she unravels secrets and solves crimes in the enchanting world created by Samantha Larsen.

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