Book Review: Mastering the Art of French Murder: An American in Paris Mystery, Book 1 by Colleen Cambridge
As a lover of both mysteries and food, the title Mastering the Art of French Murder was irresistible. The thought of a murder mystery set in post-WWII Paris, co-starring Julia Child’s fictional best friend, promised a delightful blend of intrigue and gastronomy. Colleen Cambridge, renowned for her previous work on Murder at Mallowan Hall, delivers a captivating debut in this new series.
Right from the start, I was entranced by the vibrant portrayal of Paris, a city that serves as not just a backdrop but a character in its own right. The protagonist, Tabitha Knight, freshly arrived from Detroit, is an endearing amalgamation of curiosity and naiveté. She has the charm of a classic 1940s heroine but is grounded in the realities of a war-torn world that’s beginning to reawaken. Paris isn’t merely the City of Light—it’s a treasure trove of culture, history, and, of course, food. Through Tabitha’s eyes, we navigate bustling markets, sample delectable dishes, and grapple with the complexities of friendships and family ties.
The plot kicks off with a shocking discovery: a body found in Julia’s building, murdered with her very own chef’s knife. This ominous incident spirals Tabitha into an investigation that she eagerly embraces. The stakes are high; not only do Julia and Tabitha become potential suspects, but the twisty path toward finding the real killer sets the stage for an unpredictable journey. I reveled in the humorous scenes packed with culinary mishaps, memorable characters, and plenty of plot twists.
Cambridge’s writing style exudes warmth and easy humor, making it a breeze to immerse oneself in Tabitha’s world. One moment, I found myself laughing heartily at scenes involving Julia and her culinary experiments, and the next, I was on the edge of my seat as clues began to unfold. The pacing is well-crafted—airing just enough intrigue while allowing for the delightful richness of food and culture. The character dynamics are memorable, particularly the friendship between Tabitha and Julia. As depicted, Julia’s exuberant spirit is infectious—her culinary adventures beautifully intertwined with the mystery that unfolds.
One highlight was capturing the essence of Parisian market life: the contrasts between American and French lifestyles are not just amusing; they add depth to Tabitha’s immersion in her new surroundings. The interactions at the market, such as selecting the freshest produce, are perfect metaphors for her journey of self-discovery.
The buzz surrounding Mastering the Art of French Murder has been invigorating, with readers praising its charm and delightful characters. As one reviewer noted, “This book is essentially a love letter to Paris, a murder, and above it all, cooking.” That sentiment resonated deeply with me, as the narrative combined an engaging mystery with tantalizing culinary details that made my stomach rumble.
In conclusion, I wholeheartedly recommend Mastering the Art of French Murder to fans of culinary cozy mysteries, lovers of post-war historical fiction, and anyone looking for a charming read. This book left me with both a craving for more Parisian adventure and the desire to whip up a complicated recipe in the kitchen. After all, who wouldn’t want to relish the beauty of Paris while being enveloped in a delightful murder mystery? I’m eagerly anticipating the next escapade from Colleen Cambridge’s American in Paris Mystery series!
You can find Mastering the Art of French Murder: An American in Paris Mystery, Book 1 here >>