Review of Murder at Marble House (A Gilded Newport Mystery Book 2) by Alyssa Maxwell
When I first stumbled upon Alyssa Maxwell’s Murder at Marble House in my local bookstore, I was instantly intrigued—not just by its stunning cover, but by the promise of a riveting mystery set against the splendid backdrop of the Gilded Age in Newport, Rhode Island. As a lover of historical fiction, I’m always drawn to narratives that weave together rich detail, complex characters, and a gripping plot. Maxwell delivers all of that and more in this second installment of the Gilded Newport Mysteries series.
Returning to Newport at the turn-of-the-century feels like stepping into a time machine. In Murder at Marble House, we once again find ourselves entangled in the world of the Vanderbilts, where high society intermixed with scandal is just a silk scarf away. The story begins with Emma Cross, our spirited protagonist and a society reporter, receiving a frantic call from her young cousin, Consuelo Vanderbilt. When a fortune teller—hired by Consuelo’s controlling mother, Alva—is found murdered, chaos reigns, and Consuelo disappears. Maxwell sketches the tension masterfully, crafting a narrative that feels both compelling and reflective of the societal constraints of the time.
One of the standout features of Murder at Marble House is its exploration of female agency. Emma embodies a blend of determination and vulnerability; she navigates the treacherous waters of family obligation while juggling her own desires for independence. This dual struggle creates a rich character arc that resonated deeply with me—especially as Emma grapples with not only the mysteries around her but her own burgeoning identity against the backdrop of Gilded Age expectations.
Maxwell’s writing style is both engaging and vivid. The descriptions of the opulent settings and intricate details of the era, from the clothing to the social customs, immersed me in a world that felt alive. I found myself savoring lines like, “In the glow of the crystal ball, secrets flicker like shadows,” which encapsulates the sinister allure surrounding the mystery at hand.
However, I did notice that the pacing occasionally falters, particularly in the middle of the book. Some might categorize it as a slow burn, but I believe it allows for deeper character development—a trade-off I appreciated. The narrative seamlessly ties Emma’s personal struggles with the overarching mystery, creating moments that reveal her inner strengths and vulnerabilities.
Overall, Murder at Marble House is not just about the thrill of solving a murder; it’s a thoughtful reflection on autonomy and familial duty during an era that often stifled women’s voices. I can easily recommend this book to fans of historical mysteries, lovers of complex female protagonists, and those who appreciate learning about a world steeped in glamour yet haunted by secrets.
As I closed the book, I felt a bittersweet pang. Not only was I captivated by Emma’s journey, but I also found myself longing for the next chapter in her life. Maxwell has artfully left breadcrumbs for future installments, and I’m eager to follow Emma Cross down whatever winding path she takes next. If you’re in need of a cozy, yet intellectually stimulating read, this delightful mystery will sweep you off your feet—just like Newport’s summer breeze. Happy reading!
You can find Murder at Marble House (A Gilded Newport Mystery Book 2) here >>