Murder at the Louvre

Museum Mysteries #10

by Jim Eldridge

This is a previously-published edition of ISBN 9780749029081.

Paris, 1899. Abigail Wilson has received an invitation from Professor Alphonse Flamand, a prominent French Professor of Archaeology, to join him on a dig in Egypt. Overjoyed to be presented with such an opportunity, Abigail and her husband, Daniel, travel to Paris to meet the Professor at his office in the Louvre to discuss plans.

However, when Abigail goes to the appointment, she finds Flamand dead with a knife in his chest. In a whirl of confusion and despite her pleas of innocence, Abigail is arrested.

Determined to prove that she has been framed for Flamand’s brutal murder, Daniel and Abigail, the Museum Detectives, will delve far into the shadowy corners of the City of Light for the truth.

Genres: Mystery, Historical, Fiction, Crime, Historical Fiction, Historical Mystery, Audiobook

352 pages, Paperback

Published April 18, 2024

About the author

Jim Eldridge is the author of many books for children, including titles in the My Story series, the Warpath books, and How to Handle Grown-Ups. He has had 250 TV scripts broadcast in the UK and internationally for children's and teen television, and is also the creator and writer of Radio 4's long-running comedy-drama series, King Street Junior.

Reviews

[Jazzy Lemon · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh no this series has come to an end (for now)! I hope more are added soon.

[ghostly_bookish · Rating 4 out of 5]

CAWPILE 7.86
4 STARS

Read for Battleathon August 2024.
Finally! I've gotten through all ten books and finished this series which has been on my TBR for years!
I really enjoyed this jaunt across the channel to Paris and the adventure that unfolded there. The Military storyline was fascinating- how times have changed, or have they?
The ending has left it off for futher books but also seems like a good place to stop- I wonder if Jim Eldridge will return to this series in the future.
So pleased to have ticked a series off my list instead of my constant adding of series :)

[Sandra · Rating 4 out of 5]

3,5 stars rounded up as it is close to 4 anyway.

Once again this book delivers what I've come to expect of this author. Eventhough this one is set in France instead of the UK the atmosphere remains the same and the characters are consistent (though the repetition of their accomplishments all the time got a bit boring).

The author once again researched the period and so I never had to suspend my disbelief. As the mystery, it was intriguing and taught me things about French history that I was only vaguely aware off so that is good. If at all. So if you are in my position it is best to stay alert or you might get lost in all that you need to remember.

As always a highlight of this book is the love and equality between Daniel and Abigail. It feels very organic and pleasant to read. They consider each other and acknowledge the strengths of the other without there being any secret competition and trying to one up each other. This allows for a refreshing storyline with regards to their personal story.

I'll look forward to reading more by this author.

[Patrick O'Kane · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great read but so many typos throughout, quite irritating to see and has probably put me off reading his other books. Enjoyed the read though, great story with lots of history and art topics covered

[The Sassy Bookworm · Rating 4 out of 5]

Book Review: Murder At The Louvre by Jim Eldridge

Rating: ★★★★☆

In "Murder At The Louvre" by Jim Eldridge, readers are transported to Paris in the year 1899, where an intriguing tale of murder, mystery, and archaeology unfolds. Abigail Wilson, a woman presented with a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to join Professor Alphonse Flamand on an archaeological dig in Egypt, finds herself embroiled in a dangerous web of deception when she discovers the professor's lifeless body in his office at the Louvre.

The book opens with Abigail's shock and confusion upon stumbling upon Flamand's lifeless body, a knife protruding from his chest. Despite her pleas of innocence, she is wrongfully arrested for the professor's murder. Determined to clear her name, Abigail's husband, Daniel, and herself, known as the Museum Detectives, set out on a thrilling quest to uncover the truth behind Flamand's brutal demise.

One of the most striking aspects of this book is its impeccable cover design. The attention to detail and the visual allure of the cover perfectly capture the essence of the story within. It entices readers with a glimpse of the historical backdrop and the promise of an exhilarating mystery waiting to be unraveled.

Eldridge's writing style is engaging and keeps readers hooked from beginning to end. The narrative unfolds at a fast pace, propelling the story forward with every turn of the page. The author skillfully combines elements of mystery and history, creating a well-plotted storyline that seamlessly weaves together past and present.

The setting of late 19th-century Paris adds a layer of depth and richness to the story. Eldridge effortlessly brings the City of Light to life, immersing readers in its atmospheric streets and captivating museums. The attention to historical detail enhances the reading experience, transporting readers back in time and making them feel like eyewitnesses to the events.

Furthermore, the characters in "Murder At The Louvre" are well-developed and relatable. Abigail and Daniel's determination and resilience make them interesting protagonists. As they delve into the shadowy corners of Paris in search of the truth, readers will find themselves emotionally invested in their journey.

Overall, "Murder At The Louvre" is an excellent addition to Jim Eldridge's series. With its impressive blend of mystery, history, and engaging characters, it is a must-read for fans of historical fiction and murder mysteries. The book delivers on its promise of a well-crafted plot, captivating settings, and compelling characters. As a reader, I am eagerly anticipating the next installment in this thrilling series.

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

[Janet · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the last of the Museum Detective series (for now). Abigail is invited by a rival archeological colleague to come to the Louve and discuss a possible joint venture. Never having been to France, Daniel decides to come along so Abigail can show him Paris since she's been many times and speaks fluent French. The trip becomes nothing like they'd planned. Rather than strolling the romantic streets of Paris, Abigail is thrown immediately in prison for the murder of her colleague since she was discovered with the body. Daniel had to get her out of prison, hampered by a language gap. Since he speaks no French, he had to rely on the help from the British embassy. While trying to solve the murder, Abigail and Daniel are caught up in the dreadful Dreyfuss affair (Wiki it if you don't know) and put their lives on the line. It must have been horrendous to live in France, where it seems greed and selfish ambition were more important than justice. Then again, it sounds a bit familiar.... One thing I will NOT miss is never having to hear these three words: "world famous archeologist." Geez. Ad nauseum. This was an exciting story, though, and it's nice to have Daniel and Abigail out of England.

[Kay Jones · Rating 3 out of 5]

DNF I read about 1/3 of this book.

The setting - in France - where Daniel doesn't know the language or people meant there were fewer chances to follow familiar threads.

The standard of writing is fine overall and the central murder and complications is solved OK.

What most put me off reading the rest of the book was reality intruding. References to Alfred Dreyfus and how the French Army treated him took me to history books. Read about The DreyFus Affair if you don't know the story.

In this day and age, I find it hard to cope with tales of corruption and innocent people being made to bear the burden of authority's incompetence.

[Jane Irish Nelson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Maybe not quite four stars, but rounded up. When Abigail receives an invitation from a French archeologist, who was previously quite scathing of her abilities, asking her to meet him at his office in the Louvre with an eye to a potential collaboration. So she and Daniel travel to Paris. But when Abigail enters the professor's office, she discovers him dead, stabbed. And is, of course, immediately arrested. Daniel speaks no French, so requests help from the British Embassy. And since it is 1899, all of France is on tenterhooks regarding the outcome of the Dreyfus affair, which plays a part in this mystery. I really enjoyed the historical tidbits, along with the occasional celebrity sighting.

[Holly Stone · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is as good a book as all the other museum mysteries by Jim Eldridge I've listened to/ read. this is the 10th installment in the series and this time Daniel and Abigail find themselves in Paris France while there they get drawn into a murder at the Louvre, which Abigail gets accused of committing. Daniel who does not speak French must prove his wife innocent and together they race to find the real killer and stop them before an even bigger body count puts Paris awash in innocent blood.

[Kelly Grice · Rating 3 out of 5]

Daniel and Abigail head to the Louvre for an appointment only for Abigail to find a dead professor. She’s charged with his murder and it’s up to them both to prove her innocence.
Plenty going on with murders, blackmail and the army involved too. Some great descriptions of the objects within the museum and I know from reading Jim’s books that he’s an Egyptophile like myself.
Pleasant edition to the series

[Sharon · Rating 2 out of 5]

Abigail Wilson, a renowned British archeologist was at the Louvre to meet another archeologist. When she entered his office, he had been stabbed. Abigail was arrested for his murder. Her husband, who had traveled to Paris with her was a private detective. With the aid of the British Embassy, she was released. Then the secretary of the murdered man was also killed. Murders continued to occur. Both Wilsons worked with the Embassy and the Paris police to catch the murderers.

[Mirrordance · Rating 2 out of 5]

Ambientato nella Parigi di fine '800 e con sullo sfondo le vicenbde politiche riguardanti l'affair Dreifuss.
Una narrazione che non mi ha preso, manca l'ambientazione dell'epoca, sarebbe potuto accadere in qualunque luogo e qualunque tempo e la storia non è particolarmente avvincente. I riferimenti politici, l'incontro con Oscar Wilde..... mal si fondono con il giallo.

[Alonzo Church · Rating 3 out of 5]

Abigail and Daniel Wilson, the famed “Museum Detectives” stumble onto a murder at the Louvre. Once Abigail is cleared of the murder after a few chapters of the coppers chasing a big red herring, our intrepid pair tour the museum, stumble into the Dreyfus Affair, learn about gay life in Paris circa 1900, and spend a few moments with Oscar Wilde. The murder does get wrapped up — as expected, and the detectives add to their justifiable fame.

This is a series with a silly premise — but no worse than crime solving cats or the Prince of Wales as crime solver. It’s all very lightweight and fine for audiobook, if a little bit too long. However, much of the filler consists of some interesting history lessons, pleasantly delivered. So maybe good for a long drive where attention may wander, and you could learn something.

[Sharon Hackett · Rating 3 out of 5]

Having read the whole series now I can say that Abigail got more and more annoying as the books went on. I found myself disliking her immensely by this book. She comes across as a smug know it all who has encyclopaedic knowledge of many different subjects.
Other than that I generally enjoyed the storyline.

[Donald · Rating 3 out of 5]

A return to form after the last one, although a few plot points were never resolved, was the murdered archaeologist a fraud? Was he selling off artefacts? The latter is heavily hinted at, but the former is just never mentioned again after being brought up...

[Julia McKenzie · Rating 3 out of 5]

It was probably strange of me to start this series by reading the 10th book but that’s ok. This book stared off so strong to me and then about halfway it started to drag out and it become a bit rough at the end trying to finish this. I loved how art and history was incorporated into the storyline which gave it another perspective however, the mystery just dragged for a little too long.

3.5 ⭐️

[Charlotte · Rating 5 out of 5]

Really good. Lots of little historical bits, totally love Edgar, hope he pops up again.

Never been to the Louvre, does this count now 😉

[Cristie · Rating 5 out of 5]

have read Every One

The Museum detectives books read so fast , I’m planning on re-reading them in order. Don’t miss a one.. best read in order.

[Laila · Rating 3 out of 5]

This one wasn't as good as several books I've read from this series, with the storyline rather convoluted than necessary.

[Sheila Rush · Rating 4 out of 5]

Latest in the museum murders. Lively adventure with a bit of history, archeology and detection against the backdrop of Paris in 1899!

[Susan · Rating 4 out of 5]

1899 Abigail Wilson has been invited to Paris by Professor Flamand at the Louvre but on arrival she discovers him dead and she is accused of murder. Fortunately after her release she and Daniel are employed to find his murderer.
A well-written and enteraining historical mystery with its likeable two main characters. Another good addition to this enjoyable series.

[Lauren · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of the best instalments in the series. I really enjoyed this one.

[Susan · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5*

[J Grimsey · Rating 4 out of 5]

A good read. Not quite the best but evokes Paris well. The Dreyfus line a little cliched but great to meet all the characters again

[Beachcomber · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another solid addition to the Museum Detectives series, more of the people and things you love - this one set in Paris and the Louvre.

[E G Melby · Rating 3 out of 5]

It was ok

[Charlotte Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

Really enjoyed reading this book

[C Kh · Rating 2 out of 5]

Schwach. Plot scheint undurchdacht und teils unsinnig.

[Lyn Mayberry · Rating 3 out of 5]

Readable

[Scilla · Rating 4 out of 5]

Abigail Wilson receives an offer from Alphonse Flamand at the Louvre to go to Egypt with him for a a dig. She is surprised because he had not seemed to like her at all. However, she decides to go and her husband Daniel goes with her to Paris. When Abigail gets to the Louvre and Flamand's office, she finds him dead in his office chair. The secretary then walks in and blames Abigail for the murder. They take her to the police station and she is put in jail. Daniel goes to the British Embassy and and gets a lot of help there. They shortly get Abilgail out of jail, but she has to stay in Paris until they find the culprit. When Flamands secretary is found dead in her office, they have two murders to solve.

I enjoy this series very much and am working my way through the books.