What do you think?
Rate this book
Mysteries Set in Jane Austen Novels #1
The Highbury Murders: A Mystery Set in the Village of Jane Austen's Emma
Jane Austen's "Emma" has been described as a detective story without a body - except for those who read carefully, there actually is a body, and the potential for an excellent mystery story.Set about a year after "Emma" closes, "The Highbury Murders" pays homage to the wit of Jane Austen and the whodunits of Agatha Christie. You do not need to have read Jane Austen's books to enjoy this novel, but if you have - if you regret that she wrote only six - "The Highbury Murders" is a welcome extension to her world. Pour yourself a cup of tea, settle somewhere comfortable, and indulge yourself with the proverbial good read.
164 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 28, 2013
55 people are currently reading
363 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 55 reviews
March 5, 2018
This book is really impressive on every level. The characters are faithful to Jane Austen's, the excellent writing flows smoothly and draws the reader into the neighborly atmosphere of Highbury, and the mystery is well-executed.
It does take a while to get to the whodunnit part of the tale, but you won't be bored as the author sets the table for what's to follow.
Emma and Mr. Knightley are happily married and have an infant son. Throughout the community, life goes on as usual except for the sad but not unexpected demise of old Mrs. Bates. Mr. Woodhouse continues to fuss about everyone's health, especially his own, and to expound on the benefits of gruel. He requires constant placating by his daughter and son-in-law, who live with him.
Jane Fairchild Churchill returns to the area, as Mrs. Bates was, of course, her grandmother and Miss Bates is her Aunt. Oddly, she seems guarded and uncomfortable whenever anyone asks when her husband (Frank Churchill) will join her, leading Emma to suspect that their marriage is not a happy one.
Emma's husband encourages her to develop a friendship with Jane, but her efforts to do so are hampered by the garrulous Miss Bates and by Mrs. Elton, who always seems to be there when Emma calls.
Mrs. Elton persists with little digs of one-upmanship with Emma. But Emma finds herself curious about the Eltons' finances, as there are conflicting signs of need and excess.
There are gypsies living in the area. Mr. Gilbert, a local farmer, has had Mr. Draper working for him for a couple of years, with the Draper family living on his property.
The plot of Emma is related in some detail throughout the first part of the story, too. While I was surprised that the author would find this necessary as I read it, it turns out that the backstory is, indeed, relevant in establishing the murderer's motivation.
A significant theft and then a murder rock the neighborhood. Mr. Knightley, as the local magistrate, is investigating, but Emma, of course, has her own theories. Mr. Draper is a prime suspect, especially considering his gypsy heritage and his reaction when he is questioned.
The plot builds to a fabulous climactic scene. I agree with other reviewers that the killer's identity is a shocker, yet the clues given throughout the book absolutely support it.
This is just a great mixture of JAFF and mystery. Highly recommend!
It does take a while to get to the whodunnit part of the tale, but you won't be bored as the author sets the table for what's to follow.
Emma and Mr. Knightley are happily married and have an infant son. Throughout the community, life goes on as usual except for the sad but not unexpected demise of old Mrs. Bates. Mr. Woodhouse continues to fuss about everyone's health, especially his own, and to expound on the benefits of gruel. He requires constant placating by his daughter and son-in-law, who live with him.
Jane Fairchild Churchill returns to the area, as Mrs. Bates was, of course, her grandmother and Miss Bates is her Aunt. Oddly, she seems guarded and uncomfortable whenever anyone asks when her husband (Frank Churchill) will join her, leading Emma to suspect that their marriage is not a happy one.
Emma's husband encourages her to develop a friendship with Jane, but her efforts to do so are hampered by the garrulous Miss Bates and by Mrs. Elton, who always seems to be there when Emma calls.
Mrs. Elton persists with little digs of one-upmanship with Emma. But Emma finds herself curious about the Eltons' finances, as there are conflicting signs of need and excess.
There are gypsies living in the area. Mr. Gilbert, a local farmer, has had Mr. Draper working for him for a couple of years, with the Draper family living on his property.
The plot of Emma is related in some detail throughout the first part of the story, too. While I was surprised that the author would find this necessary as I read it, it turns out that the backstory is, indeed, relevant in establishing the murderer's motivation.
A significant theft and then a murder rock the neighborhood. Mr. Knightley, as the local magistrate, is investigating, but Emma, of course, has her own theories. Mr. Draper is a prime suspect, especially considering his gypsy heritage and his reaction when he is questioned.
The plot builds to a fabulous climactic scene. I agree with other reviewers that the killer's identity is a shocker, yet the clues given throughout the book absolutely support it.
This is just a great mixture of JAFF and mystery. Highly recommend!
September 16, 2024
As I continue my reverse order series binge, I've arrived at the first book in the series of standalone historical mysteries set in the world of Jane Austen novels. This time, the setting is Highbury and the characters of Emma a few years after the final events of that book.
The Highbury Murders opens with a sad, but not unexpected event when sweet, but deaf old Mrs. Bates passes on. Emma Woodhouse Knightley, like many others in Highbury village comes to pay her respects to Miss Bates on the loss of her mother. Emma observes her fellow mourners and notes a few interesting bits. Her husband is busy with the harvest on his own estate of Donwell Abbey, but he appreciates coming home to Hartfield, a quiet dinner, time with their baby son, and an exchange of conversation to find out how Emma's day went.
Emma gets further opportunities to observe others curiously at the Bates funeral which brings Frank and Jane Churchill back to their home village. Why are the Eltons so keen to have the Churchills around? What is the nature of the strangers Harriet Martin swears went along by her back gate? And, for heaven's sake, who would murder chatty, poor Miss Bates?
The Highbury Murders is cozy in tone and has a dual purpose of sequel to Emma and murder mystery. The first part of the book was sequel with catching the reader up on where all the principal characters have gotten to in their lives as well as dropping soft hints and oddities that will mean more later in the story. The murder doesn't come until nearly half way and then things get interesting and lead to a startling climax. I really did not see that resolution coming. It seemed so out there, but really was not once one has the killer's confession laid out for one.
I thought it was well done as far as being faithful to Austen's characters and the setting of the novel while delivering a clever mystery.
The Highbury Murders opens with a sad, but not unexpected event when sweet, but deaf old Mrs. Bates passes on. Emma Woodhouse Knightley, like many others in Highbury village comes to pay her respects to Miss Bates on the loss of her mother. Emma observes her fellow mourners and notes a few interesting bits. Her husband is busy with the harvest on his own estate of Donwell Abbey, but he appreciates coming home to Hartfield, a quiet dinner, time with their baby son, and an exchange of conversation to find out how Emma's day went.
Emma gets further opportunities to observe others curiously at the Bates funeral which brings Frank and Jane Churchill back to their home village. Why are the Eltons so keen to have the Churchills around? What is the nature of the strangers Harriet Martin swears went along by her back gate? And, for heaven's sake, who would murder chatty, poor Miss Bates?
The Highbury Murders is cozy in tone and has a dual purpose of sequel to Emma and murder mystery. The first part of the book was sequel with catching the reader up on where all the principal characters have gotten to in their lives as well as dropping soft hints and oddities that will mean more later in the story. The murder doesn't come until nearly half way and then things get interesting and lead to a startling climax. I really did not see that resolution coming. It seemed so out there, but really was not once one has the killer's confession laid out for one.
I thought it was well done as far as being faithful to Austen's characters and the setting of the novel while delivering a clever mystery.
November 17, 2017
3 1/2 rounded up to 4 stars.
I don't read many JAFFs that aren't P&P variations; for many reasons. However I will step out of my comfort zone for Mysteries since I discovered the entire genre thanks to Carrie Bebris' Pride and Prescience: Or, A Truth Universally Acknowledged (Mr. & Mrs. Darcy Mysteries, #1) https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/1....
I really can't rate the book on being an Emma variation because I don't read them but as a mystery it was a little disappointing. The author spends so much time putting all the players on the stage that the titular murder doesn't occur until more than 1/2 way through the book. There is a theft which happens earlier but the clues are so obvious even I figured that out almost immediately.
Once the murder takes place everything moves very quickly.
I don't read many JAFFs that aren't P&P variations; for many reasons. However I will step out of my comfort zone for Mysteries since I discovered the entire genre thanks to Carrie Bebris' Pride and Prescience: Or, A Truth Universally Acknowledged (Mr. & Mrs. Darcy Mysteries, #1) https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/1....
I really can't rate the book on being an Emma variation because I don't read them but as a mystery it was a little disappointing. The author spends so much time putting all the players on the stage that the titular murder doesn't occur until more than 1/2 way through the book. There is a theft which happens earlier but the clues are so obvious even I figured that out almost immediately.
Once the murder takes place everything moves very quickly.
August 14, 2015
Emma everyone's favorite meddling matchmaker turns detective in this cozy mystery. You get to see all the characters from Austen's Emma from the chatty good humored Miss Bates, the sweet and simple Harriet, everyone's favorite hypochondriac Mr.Woodhouse, the detestable Eltons and even Mrs. Jane Churchill and Frank Churchill. I really loved this book and read it in one sitting. I really loved the writing and how the author kept all the characters true to JA's creations. This is one of the best JAFF authors I have ever read when it comes to keeping the characters true to the originals even with the murders. You don't need to read Emma to enjoy this book but reading Emma before will maximize your enjoyment of the story and characters. I loved seeing all the characters for Emma again. Everything the author had the characters do and say fit the original characters even with this being a mystery. I found this book laugh out loud funny. Mr. Woodhouse has some of the best lines. He was one of my favorite characters in the original book and he was in this one too. I enjoyed the mystery and thought it was very well done. I was shocked at who committed the crime. I loved Emma in this book and think that marriage and motherhood have matured her. But her imagination is as strong and fanciful as ever. I loved seeing Emma and Knightley happy in their marriage as well has all the other couples well of course not the horrible Eltons. Mr. Knighley's thoughtfulness and love for Emma is so sweet.I love the note at the end where the author tells how she was inspired to write this story. Overall if you love Emma Jane Austen, and murder I highly recommend this book.
Rating: 5 out of 5
Content: PG
Heat Rating: Clean
Rating: 5 out of 5
Content: PG
Heat Rating: Clean
September 20, 2015
Emma a souvent été qualifié de roman policier sans corps. Victoria Grossack a décidé de réparer cette erreur. Un an après le mariage d'Emma et Knightley, alors que la vie paisible de Highbury suit son cours, l'impensable va être commis: un meurtre. Et vous connaissez Emma et sa manie de se mêler de tout...
Je garde vraiment une très bonne impression générale de ce roman que j'ai lu il y a quelques temps déjà. Pour commencer, j'apprécie le fait qu'un auteur se penche sur une autre oeuvre qu'Orgueil et Préjugés et je dois dire que le mélange Jane Austen/meurtres et enquêtes, me séduit toujours. J'étais donc acquise au principe de base mais j'avais également certainement plus d'attentes et ma lecture ne m'a pas déçue. Cependant, le meurtre n'arrive pas tout de suite mais je dois dire que le plaisir de se replonger dans la vie de ce village et le talent de l'auteur suffisent à rendre la lecture agréable. J'ai d'ailleurs trouvé beaucoup d'humour et d'esprit dans la plume de Victoria Grossack, un vrai respect de chaque personnage que l'on reconnaît sans peine, retrouve comme un vieil ami et côtoie donc de nouveau avec joie. Ce sont déjà de nombreux points positifs que l'on ne peut pas attribuer à toutes les austeneries.
Pour ce qui est de l'enquête, je l'ai trouvé intéressante et je me suis interrogée à de nombreuses reprises sur l'identité du meurtrier. Et là, je dois confessée que je n'ai pas soupçonnée une seule seconde la bonne personne. Cela pourrait être un bon point mais c'est en fait le gros point faible de cette histoire, sa fin. (Attention spoiler) En effet, cette révélation est totalement improbable. D'ailleurs, on y croit pas une seconde, et c'est particulièrement décevant. Cela n'enlève rien au fait que j'ai aimé ma lecture mais il est d'autant plus dommage que la fin ne soit pas à la hauteur.
http://janeausten.hautetfort.com/arch...
Je garde vraiment une très bonne impression générale de ce roman que j'ai lu il y a quelques temps déjà. Pour commencer, j'apprécie le fait qu'un auteur se penche sur une autre oeuvre qu'Orgueil et Préjugés et je dois dire que le mélange Jane Austen/meurtres et enquêtes, me séduit toujours. J'étais donc acquise au principe de base mais j'avais également certainement plus d'attentes et ma lecture ne m'a pas déçue. Cependant, le meurtre n'arrive pas tout de suite mais je dois dire que le plaisir de se replonger dans la vie de ce village et le talent de l'auteur suffisent à rendre la lecture agréable. J'ai d'ailleurs trouvé beaucoup d'humour et d'esprit dans la plume de Victoria Grossack, un vrai respect de chaque personnage que l'on reconnaît sans peine, retrouve comme un vieil ami et côtoie donc de nouveau avec joie. Ce sont déjà de nombreux points positifs que l'on ne peut pas attribuer à toutes les austeneries.
Pour ce qui est de l'enquête, je l'ai trouvé intéressante et je me suis interrogée à de nombreuses reprises sur l'identité du meurtrier. Et là, je dois confessée que je n'ai pas soupçonnée une seule seconde la bonne personne. Cela pourrait être un bon point mais c'est en fait le gros point faible de cette histoire, sa fin. (Attention spoiler) En effet, cette révélation est totalement improbable. D'ailleurs, on y croit pas une seconde, et c'est particulièrement décevant. Cela n'enlève rien au fait que j'ai aimé ma lecture mais il est d'autant plus dommage que la fin ne soit pas à la hauteur.
http://janeausten.hautetfort.com/arch...
January 7, 2015
Good writing, bad ending
I was quite captured by the writing style and mystery of the novel, and very much enjoyed it until the end.
(Spoiler alert)
The death of Mrs. Churchill (not Jane) would have provided all the drama necessary for a book written in homage to Jane Austen, who managed to convey plenty of drama and "tragedy" without reverting to overblown violence. In my opinion the writer over played her hand, adding many more murders and villains than were necessary. Perhaps with a more simple, less dramatic plot it would have worked.
I was quite captured by the writing style and mystery of the novel, and very much enjoyed it until the end.
(Spoiler alert)
The death of Mrs. Churchill (not Jane) would have provided all the drama necessary for a book written in homage to Jane Austen, who managed to convey plenty of drama and "tragedy" without reverting to overblown violence. In my opinion the writer over played her hand, adding many more murders and villains than were necessary. Perhaps with a more simple, less dramatic plot it would have worked.
May 2, 2018
I strongly feel that a fan fiction writer should NEVER kill off a character created by THE AUTHOR. To do that 4 times...once violently...ugh! Too bad... I did enjoy the non-violent sections of the book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 20, 2018
Jane Austen’s Emma can be a slow read; for ages it seems to meander along, focused only on the minutiae of trivial lives in a small Surrey community, until all of a sudden the threads of the story wind themselves up into a tidy knot. So it seems appropriate—if surprising, for a mystery story—that The Highbury Murders, based as it is on Emma’s world and her characters, should unfold at a leisurely pace. Fully half the book goes by and no sign of a murder, even though it begins with a death.
Grossack’s writing style is elegant and her characters’ manners feel very true to the age. (High praise indeed from me, as I am hypercritical in this regard.) There were some lapses in research—women attending funerals, the absence of a coroner’s inquest after a violent death—that distracted me from time to time.
The author sticks largely to the characters in the original book and remains true to their personalities. A huge improvement over Death Comes to Pemberley, written by an experienced mystery writer but oh-so wrong about Jane Austen! This turned out to be a problem as well as a benefit, however, because it is difficult to imagine most of Austen’s characters as murderers, so it requires truly untoward events to induce them to behave in such an improper fashion. I have to admit that the motivations provided did not seem adequate to me, knocking my rating for this book down a notch.
Still, the writing was of a higher order than commonly found in Austenesque fiction, and it sent me on a pleasant return journey to Highbury.
Grossack’s writing style is elegant and her characters’ manners feel very true to the age. (High praise indeed from me, as I am hypercritical in this regard.) There were some lapses in research—women attending funerals, the absence of a coroner’s inquest after a violent death—that distracted me from time to time.
The author sticks largely to the characters in the original book and remains true to their personalities. A huge improvement over Death Comes to Pemberley, written by an experienced mystery writer but oh-so wrong about Jane Austen! This turned out to be a problem as well as a benefit, however, because it is difficult to imagine most of Austen’s characters as murderers, so it requires truly untoward events to induce them to behave in such an improper fashion. I have to admit that the motivations provided did not seem adequate to me, knocking my rating for this book down a notch.
Still, the writing was of a higher order than commonly found in Austenesque fiction, and it sent me on a pleasant return journey to Highbury.
September 11, 2017
Anybody who's been through a divorce will tell you that at one point they've thought murder. The line between thinking murder and doing murder isn't that major. -- Oliver Stone
Old Mrs. Bates has died. Highbury comes to life with the news.
Donwell Abbey has a burglary – was it during the time when the neighbor’s bull invaded the turnips? Was it the gypsies?
Will Frank and Jane Churchill return for her Grandmother’s funeral? How happy is their marriage?
Murder is born of love, and love attains the greatest intensity in murder. -- Octave Mirbeau
Mrs. Elton and her musical program -- so many young people in the house – some of them gypsies! It could be dangerous to walk home alone.
Are the Eltons financially stable? What is the sentimental attachment to that old chest?
This is a very well-crafted mystery with a murderer I didn’t suspect although in the afterword the author points to clues in “Emma” that led to this story.
A murderer is regarded by the conventional world as something almost monstrous, but a murderer to himself is only an ordinary man. It is only if the murderer is a good man that he can be regarded as monstrous. -- Graham Greene
Old Mrs. Bates has died. Highbury comes to life with the news.
Donwell Abbey has a burglary – was it during the time when the neighbor’s bull invaded the turnips? Was it the gypsies?
Will Frank and Jane Churchill return for her Grandmother’s funeral? How happy is their marriage?
Murder is born of love, and love attains the greatest intensity in murder. -- Octave Mirbeau
Mrs. Elton and her musical program -- so many young people in the house – some of them gypsies! It could be dangerous to walk home alone.
Are the Eltons financially stable? What is the sentimental attachment to that old chest?
This is a very well-crafted mystery with a murderer I didn’t suspect although in the afterword the author points to clues in “Emma” that led to this story.
A murderer is regarded by the conventional world as something almost monstrous, but a murderer to himself is only an ordinary man. It is only if the murderer is a good man that he can be regarded as monstrous. -- Graham Greene
August 14, 2014
TYPE OF AUSTENESQUE NOVEL: Mystery/Sequel to Emma
TIME FRAME: One year after the close of Emma.
MAIN CHARACTERS: The Knightleys, Mr. Woodhouse, The Eltons, Miss Bates, The Churchills, The Westons, Harriet Martin
SYNOPSIS: While there is an abundance of happy marriages and births to celebrate in Highbury, there comes an occasion for sadness and sorrow with the death of old Mrs. Bates. The Churchills arrive in town for the funeral and Emma starts mulling over all the unanswered questions around her – are the Churchills happily married, are the Eltons facing financial difficulty, are there gypsies trespassing near Abbey Mill Farm? Then, unexpectedly (although perhaps not so unexpected for the reader) someone else is found dead. Now there are even more mysteries and intrigues for Emma and her husband to solve…
WHAT I LOVED:
The Concept: I love Emma, at times I name it as my favorite Jane Austen novel. I love Highbury – Miss Bates, Harriet, Mr. Woodhouse, such a marvelous cast of characters! I love the idea of traveling back to Highbury to see how all our old friends are faring, to see all the newlyweds and newborns, to see what new developments are taking place :) And yes, if any of Jane Austen’s novels are primed for a murder mystery, it is Emma.
Our Dear Couple: It was so heartwarming to see the contentment and congruency between Emma and Mr. Knightley. I love how there were still some little rubs (Mr. Knightley having to travel to and from Donwell everyday) and obstacles (Mr. Woodhouse!) for Emma and Knightley to deal with. I enjoyed seeing Mr. Knightley and Emma share some alone time at the end of each day and discuss their activities and endeavors with each other. And when the mystery begins to baffle Mr. Knightley, I love how he finally came to appreciate Emma’s overactive imagination and asked his wife for assistance in solving they murder.
Excellent Characterization: The inhabitants of Highbury are charming and distinct, and Victoria Grossack did an admirable job of maintaining and developing each characters’ individual traits, quirks, and manner of speaking. Seeing Harriet overwhelmed and overtired with twins, Mrs. Elton competitive and vulgar, and Mr. Woodhouse afraid to take his daily constitutions outside all worked brilliantly! I greatly enjoyed seeing these beloved characters rendered so accurately and admirably (for the most part…)
WHAT I WASN’T TOO FOND OF:
Long Exposition: The author spent a lot of time recounting the events that took place in Emma (which I know was to help readers who didn’t read Emma understand what is going on!). But at the same time, the first crime happened one of third of the way into the novel, and the first murder happened just a little over half way through. It was a long wait to feel intrigued…
A Surprise Ending: I do love it when a mystery stumps me and I am unable to guess or predict the culprit, but I must admit to feeling some dissatisfaction in this case. I was disappointed with who the perpetrator was, what they did right before they were apprehended, and how the revelation came about. While the author tied it in neatly and cunningly to some passages and events from Emma, I found it difficult to believe that this character would do such deeds. In addition, the overall tone of the conclusion with its shocking and unconvincing surprises – for me, at least – felt unsettling and depressing.
CONCLUSION:
While this is perhaps not my favorite Austen-inspired murder mystery (those would be the novels by Stephanie Barron, Carrie Bebris, and Tracy Kiely), I nevertheless was happy to visit with this “small band of true friends” and once again delight in the charms of Highbury.
TIME FRAME: One year after the close of Emma.
MAIN CHARACTERS: The Knightleys, Mr. Woodhouse, The Eltons, Miss Bates, The Churchills, The Westons, Harriet Martin
SYNOPSIS: While there is an abundance of happy marriages and births to celebrate in Highbury, there comes an occasion for sadness and sorrow with the death of old Mrs. Bates. The Churchills arrive in town for the funeral and Emma starts mulling over all the unanswered questions around her – are the Churchills happily married, are the Eltons facing financial difficulty, are there gypsies trespassing near Abbey Mill Farm? Then, unexpectedly (although perhaps not so unexpected for the reader) someone else is found dead. Now there are even more mysteries and intrigues for Emma and her husband to solve…
WHAT I LOVED:
The Concept: I love Emma, at times I name it as my favorite Jane Austen novel. I love Highbury – Miss Bates, Harriet, Mr. Woodhouse, such a marvelous cast of characters! I love the idea of traveling back to Highbury to see how all our old friends are faring, to see all the newlyweds and newborns, to see what new developments are taking place :) And yes, if any of Jane Austen’s novels are primed for a murder mystery, it is Emma.
Our Dear Couple: It was so heartwarming to see the contentment and congruency between Emma and Mr. Knightley. I love how there were still some little rubs (Mr. Knightley having to travel to and from Donwell everyday) and obstacles (Mr. Woodhouse!) for Emma and Knightley to deal with. I enjoyed seeing Mr. Knightley and Emma share some alone time at the end of each day and discuss their activities and endeavors with each other. And when the mystery begins to baffle Mr. Knightley, I love how he finally came to appreciate Emma’s overactive imagination and asked his wife for assistance in solving they murder.
Excellent Characterization: The inhabitants of Highbury are charming and distinct, and Victoria Grossack did an admirable job of maintaining and developing each characters’ individual traits, quirks, and manner of speaking. Seeing Harriet overwhelmed and overtired with twins, Mrs. Elton competitive and vulgar, and Mr. Woodhouse afraid to take his daily constitutions outside all worked brilliantly! I greatly enjoyed seeing these beloved characters rendered so accurately and admirably (for the most part…)
WHAT I WASN’T TOO FOND OF:
Long Exposition: The author spent a lot of time recounting the events that took place in Emma (which I know was to help readers who didn’t read Emma understand what is going on!). But at the same time, the first crime happened one of third of the way into the novel, and the first murder happened just a little over half way through. It was a long wait to feel intrigued…
A Surprise Ending: I do love it when a mystery stumps me and I am unable to guess or predict the culprit, but I must admit to feeling some dissatisfaction in this case. I was disappointed with who the perpetrator was, what they did right before they were apprehended, and how the revelation came about. While the author tied it in neatly and cunningly to some passages and events from Emma, I found it difficult to believe that this character would do such deeds. In addition, the overall tone of the conclusion with its shocking and unconvincing surprises – for me, at least – felt unsettling and depressing.
CONCLUSION:
While this is perhaps not my favorite Austen-inspired murder mystery (those would be the novels by Stephanie Barron, Carrie Bebris, and Tracy Kiely), I nevertheless was happy to visit with this “small band of true friends” and once again delight in the charms of Highbury.
August 7, 2015
a somewhat interesting turn if you are a fan of "Emma" as it relates to life between her, Mr. Knightley and her family. The plot is totally improbable and brings low some of the previous characters from Emma. You can't love some of the characters and find that the others are so far off from the Miss Austen's description. It would have been better off (but maybe obvious) to introduce new ones.
July 28, 2014
I enjoyed this book immensely. The writing felt as if Jane Austen herself wrote this. If you are a fan of mysteries & Jane Austen's Emma then this is a must read. I completely adore this book.
April 9, 2013
I'm not generally a fan of this type of fiction, and thought the P.D.James effort to be an abysmal failure. Which is why I was so pleased to find this gem. What I hated most about the James novel was completely lacking here: there was no false notes of "do you remember such and such?", there was no heavy-handed clumsy attempt at imitation.
This is a skillful, flowing tale told as Jane Austen would have told it had she lived and been so inclined. From the first words, Austen's influence is clear:
"The death of Mrs. Bates, a very old lady whose hearing had long since gone and who had spent her last few months either in her bedroom or sitting in her chair in the parlor, would have gone unremarked in London, where people spent their time discussing fashion, nobility, and the latest offering at the theatre. In Bath her decease might have been mentioned as a piece of dull news, before the residents and visitors resumed discussing who had been seen at the Pump Room during the day or who was giving a whist party that night. In Highbury, however, Mrs. Bates's passing was an event which was talked over in every house, both great and small. They wondered about her last hours, hoped that their own ends would be so peaceful, and discussed what they had heard about the funeral arrangements. To the romantic, a death may not hold the same fascination as the hopes for a wedding, but just as young ones begin, old lives must end."
Even the Chapter names are dead ringers, like "Excursions of a Lively Mind," or "Sketches From the Past." The same examination and illumination of manners and social pretense that Austen excelled at are present in The Highbury Murders. Plus, there is a mystery. Yes, a real live mystery.
If you are interested in a light hearted cozy mystery and a visit with old friends, you will probably enjoy this book.
This is a skillful, flowing tale told as Jane Austen would have told it had she lived and been so inclined. From the first words, Austen's influence is clear:
"The death of Mrs. Bates, a very old lady whose hearing had long since gone and who had spent her last few months either in her bedroom or sitting in her chair in the parlor, would have gone unremarked in London, where people spent their time discussing fashion, nobility, and the latest offering at the theatre. In Bath her decease might have been mentioned as a piece of dull news, before the residents and visitors resumed discussing who had been seen at the Pump Room during the day or who was giving a whist party that night. In Highbury, however, Mrs. Bates's passing was an event which was talked over in every house, both great and small. They wondered about her last hours, hoped that their own ends would be so peaceful, and discussed what they had heard about the funeral arrangements. To the romantic, a death may not hold the same fascination as the hopes for a wedding, but just as young ones begin, old lives must end."
Even the Chapter names are dead ringers, like "Excursions of a Lively Mind," or "Sketches From the Past." The same examination and illumination of manners and social pretense that Austen excelled at are present in The Highbury Murders. Plus, there is a mystery. Yes, a real live mystery.
If you are interested in a light hearted cozy mystery and a visit with old friends, you will probably enjoy this book.
June 23, 2013
I know that many will think it is vain of authors to rate their own books 5 stars, and I concede that they have a point. On the other hand, I was very pleased with how this turned out. Would I be able to develop each of the characters along the arc that Jane Austen began? I believe I did this. Would I find enough material for a mystery? Again, yes. Finally, with the best books the characters actually learn something - not just about the world in which they live, but about themselves.
So, although I am not vain enough to believe that this is the best book ever written, in it I accomplished even more than what I expected or even hoped to do. I also believe it will entertain those who, like I, regret that Jane Austen wrote only six novels - and those who yearn to escape the troubles of today by sinking into a cozy detective story for some pleasant hours.
Happy reading!
Addenda
Since my first writing this, the feedback has been very positive. Here's a link to a review at Cozy Mystery Book Review http://cozymysterybookreview.com/?p=3580 and an excerpt from it:
Grossack’s writing is spot on when it comes to capturing Jane Austen’s tone and writing style. That is not an easy accomplishment, by any means, and this author makes it seem so flawless as if Jane, herself, was actually penning this novel...The murder in this one is not one easily solved and there are a lot of suspects and motives and clues that will have you guessing until the very end. I love how this one stayed true to Emma and yet was unique in its own way.
And here is a link to a "Talking Jane Austen" blog interview done at My Jane Austen Book Club: http://thesecretunderstandingofthehea...
So, although I am not vain enough to believe that this is the best book ever written, in it I accomplished even more than what I expected or even hoped to do. I also believe it will entertain those who, like I, regret that Jane Austen wrote only six novels - and those who yearn to escape the troubles of today by sinking into a cozy detective story for some pleasant hours.
Happy reading!
Addenda
Since my first writing this, the feedback has been very positive. Here's a link to a review at Cozy Mystery Book Review http://cozymysterybookreview.com/?p=3580 and an excerpt from it:
Grossack’s writing is spot on when it comes to capturing Jane Austen’s tone and writing style. That is not an easy accomplishment, by any means, and this author makes it seem so flawless as if Jane, herself, was actually penning this novel...The murder in this one is not one easily solved and there are a lot of suspects and motives and clues that will have you guessing until the very end. I love how this one stayed true to Emma and yet was unique in its own way.
And here is a link to a "Talking Jane Austen" blog interview done at My Jane Austen Book Club: http://thesecretunderstandingofthehea...
June 15, 2013
What if Jane Austen and Agatha Christie collaborated on a novella? Apparently they have outwitted the constraints of time and done that in Victoria Grossack's book The Highbury Murders: A Murder Set in the Village of Jane Austen's Emma.
This has the natural feel of Jane Austen's writing. The characters are interesting and complete with the human foibles that Austen was so good at portraying. And it is satisfying to revisit these characters we grew attached to in Emma as their lives continue (It's fiction! Of course they can live on.). But this time, unlike in Emma, there are real bodies and lots of clues sprinkled along the way to keep you turning the pages to find out whodunnit, as well as enjoying the personal lives along the way.
So pour some tea in your Royal Doulton teacup with the handpainted periwinkles, put the cozy on the teapot, set it on the doily covered table, and get your British on as you settle in with this delightful book.
This has the natural feel of Jane Austen's writing. The characters are interesting and complete with the human foibles that Austen was so good at portraying. And it is satisfying to revisit these characters we grew attached to in Emma as their lives continue (It's fiction! Of course they can live on.). But this time, unlike in Emma, there are real bodies and lots of clues sprinkled along the way to keep you turning the pages to find out whodunnit, as well as enjoying the personal lives along the way.
So pour some tea in your Royal Doulton teacup with the handpainted periwinkles, put the cozy on the teapot, set it on the doily covered table, and get your British on as you settle in with this delightful book.
March 29, 2013
Absolutely charming!
Part of me wants to give this book five stars, because it achieves what it sets out to do. We see Emma again, now married, and spend time with all the characters: the fretful Mr. Woodhouse, the talkative Miss Bates, kind Mrs. Weston, dithery Harriet Martin, the wise and just Mr. Knightley and the vain Mrs. Elton. There's also a wonderful little mystery but I don't want to say more.
I think this book would be enjoyed by those who have not read Emma, but for those who have, it's a delight. Recommended.
Part of me wants to give this book five stars, because it achieves what it sets out to do. We see Emma again, now married, and spend time with all the characters: the fretful Mr. Woodhouse, the talkative Miss Bates, kind Mrs. Weston, dithery Harriet Martin, the wise and just Mr. Knightley and the vain Mrs. Elton. There's also a wonderful little mystery but I don't want to say more.
I think this book would be enjoyed by those who have not read Emma, but for those who have, it's a delight. Recommended.
February 14, 2014
Thank you, Victoria Grossack
Thank you, Victoria Grossack
There was no hesitation on my part in giving this book a five star rating. From the first page to the last it was one of the most enjoyable books I have read in a long time. The word charming comes to mind, perhaps because of the setting, the era and the characters. All three were described so very well that I could picture them as I read and could become immersed in their lives. It was a "sorry to finish it" book.
Thank you, Victoria Grossack
There was no hesitation on my part in giving this book a five star rating. From the first page to the last it was one of the most enjoyable books I have read in a long time. The word charming comes to mind, perhaps because of the setting, the era and the characters. All three were described so very well that I could picture them as I read and could become immersed in their lives. It was a "sorry to finish it" book.
January 20, 2015
Meh. I didn't finish in time for the discussion, but there was no real discussion because nobody liked it. I finished the next day and agreed- it was an unfortunate choice for our Mystery month. My biggest complaint is how ridiculously repetitive the author was in describing characters we were already very familiar with. Take out the repeated information and all you have is a mediocre short story.
January 26, 2015
Another dreadful Austen knockoff.
Poor Jane. As a Janeite I. feel obliged to,at least, try to read the knockoffs. None can come close to the novels of the great Jane but some are amusing. A very few are even interesting. I began this book with hopes since the the author did not commit the fatal error of quoting Jane and not giving credit (English 101 my dears). She did take "Emma's" characters and turn them into caricatures. Murderer s, thieves _ please.
Poor Jane. As a Janeite I. feel obliged to,at least, try to read the knockoffs. None can come close to the novels of the great Jane but some are amusing. A very few are even interesting. I began this book with hopes since the the author did not commit the fatal error of quoting Jane and not giving credit (English 101 my dears). She did take "Emma's" characters and turn them into caricatures. Murderer s, thieves _ please.
June 14, 2013
An absolutely wonderful read, enjoyed it tremendously. A cozy mystery wrapped in the Jane Austen story of Emma. Many changes to the familiar characters. Very highly recommended to both mystery lovers and Janites.
January 26, 2018
I indicated there are spoilers here, right? I see no reason why this author had to make a murderer of Mr. ___. Do what you will with the Eltons. I never trusted Frank Churchill. But some characters, and their wives, should be allowed their happily ever after.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 11, 2019
It is well written and the characters remained true to the original work, at least for most of them. Through my entire reading, I always felt a was reading the sequel of the book Jane Austen wrote.
In addition, the author constructed her story around the previous book and it was well done. The mystery was exactly I was looking and certainly satisfied when the truth was revealed. The only problem is I am trying to think this is not what Jane Austen had in mind about THAT person.
Overall, it was a very good reading and easy to do it (finished very fast and I'm still practicing my English). Now, I'm on set to read her other mystery book regarding Pride and Prejudice.
In addition, the author constructed her story around the previous book and it was well done. The mystery was exactly I was looking and certainly satisfied when the truth was revealed. The only problem is I am trying to think this is not what Jane Austen had in mind about THAT person.
Overall, it was a very good reading and easy to do it (finished very fast and I'm still practicing my English). Now, I'm on set to read her other mystery book regarding Pride and Prejudice.
August 19, 2025
The death of elderly Mrs. Bates sets in motion a series of events culminating in murder. The main characters from Jane Austen's Emma are all present, and act (mostly) in character. Mrs. Elton hosts a musical afternoon, hoping to increase her standing in the village. Afterwards, Miss Bates visits her parents' graves, where she is later discovered murdered. Naturally Emma and Mr. Knightley become involved in the investigation, which uncovers surprising secrets.
January 23, 2021
The first few chapters have a lot of information from Jane Austen's book Emma and since I have read Ema I skimmed that a bit. I thought she did an excellent job of capturing Jane Austen's style and staying true to the characters with the exception of Mr. Westin. I know the author and talked with her about her work so I did know that in her book Frank Churchill killed his aunt, but I completely didn't see it coming that Mr. Westin killed Miss Bates or his first wife.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 13, 2019
I thought this was an improvement on The Meryton Murders. Emma works much better as a detective.
Recommended if you are a fan of Jane Austen and cozy mysteries. 3.5 stars
Recommended if you are a fan of Jane Austen and cozy mysteries. 3.5 stars
May 27, 2020
Interesting
A rather interesting murder mystery variation inspired by Jane Austen's classic novel. Unusual premise and rather well done little story
A rather interesting murder mystery variation inspired by Jane Austen's classic novel. Unusual premise and rather well done little story
October 11, 2020
Highbury swiftly becomes Midsomer! 😱
April 5, 2022
The Highbury Murders
This book was interesting. I just watched Emma on television. It brought the book more to life.
I recommend it to aa.
This book was interesting. I just watched Emma on television. It brought the book more to life.
I recommend it to aa.
Read
January 17, 2023Too old fashion-y British for me I guess.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 55 reviews