Murder in Miniature

Maple Bishop #2

by Katie Tietjen

Inspired by the true story of Frances Glessner Lee, whose miniature replicas of crime scenes are still used to train forensic investigators today, this follow up novel to Death in the Details continues the adventures of intrepid amateur sleuth Maple Bishop.

Maple Bishop has a thriving dollhouse business and a new career as a crime scene consultant for the local sheriff's office. On the surface, she seems to be doing well, but deep down Maple is still reeling from the death of her husband. When the body of an aspiring firefighter–who was close childhood friends with Kenny, the sheriff’s deputy and Maple’s confidante–is discovered in the charred remains of a burned cabin, Maple is called in to help determine whether the fire was an accident or a case of murder by arson. 

Realizing there’s more to the crime than meets the eye, she sets out to unearth the discrepancies from the scene by re-creating the cabin in miniature. The investigation leads them to Maple’s old Boston neighborhood, forcing her to confront the past she’s desperately trying to forget. 

As Maple and Kenny sift through clues, they uncover dark secrets that hit close to home, unravelling in unexpected ways–and putting their lives in danger.

Genres: Mystery, Historical Fiction, Fiction, Historical Mystery, Cozy Mystery, Historical, Cozy

288 pages, Hardcover

First published September 23, 2025

Reviews

[Phrynne · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the second book in a series featuring Maple Bishop who makes and sells dolls houses as a business. She also assists the police investigating crimes by building exact replicas of the crime scenes.

In this book the crime is a death in a burned cabin and it is fascinating to see how she builds a series of replicas using varied materials to calculate whether the fire was an accident or arson. Maple's character is based on a real life woman called Frances Glessner Lee, one of the early leaders in forensic science, a fact which makes the whole thing even more intriguing.

The story is nicely written with realistic characters and a good mystery. I enjoyed it and will look out for a book three.

Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book.

[CarolG · Rating 4 out of 5]

In post-WWII Vermont, Maple Bishop has a thriving dollhouse business and a new career as a crime scene consultant for the local sheriff's office. When the body of an aspiring firefighter is discovered in the charred remains of a burned cabin, Maple is called in to help determine whether the fire was an accident or a case of murder by arson.

This is the second book in this series Inspired by the real-life mother of forensic science, Frances Glessner Lee, and it was a quick and easy read. I'm not normally a fan of "cozy" mysteries but I've enjoyed these two books featuring Maple Bishop. She's a likeable character without pretense. The other main characters - Sheriff Sam Scott, Deputy Kenny Quirk and local merchant Ben Crenshaw - are also realistically portrayed. I was a little disappointed that there wasn't as much description of Maple's miniature creations as in the first book but I enjoyed the mystery even though I had suspected who was at fault and was proven right. There was more to the story than meets the eye. In my opinion, it's not necessary to read Book 1 first but I think it was the better book. I'd probably read another book in the series but I don't think it'll become a favourite. 3.5 Stars rounded up.

Thank you to Crooked Lane Books, via Netgalley, for approving my request to read an advance digital copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed are my own. This review will be posted on Goodreads on October 1, 2025 and on amazon.ca on or after October 1, 2025.
Publication Date: September 23, 2025

[ABCme · Rating 2 out of 5]

I judged this book by its cover because, well look at it! Unfortunately this was the most boring story I've read in a long time, with the most click bait title, since miniature hardly plays a roll.

When a body is found in a burnt cabin it's up to Maple, Kenny and the local sheriff to solve the mystery. All calm and composed, no excitement, no depth.
2 Stars for good writing and true to life dialogue that got me to the finish.

Thank you Netgalley and Crooked Lane Books for the ARC.

[Elle · Rating 4 out of 5]

I read book 1 right before diving into book 2 and while I'm glad that I read both, I don't think it's necessary to read book 1 before getting into this one.

I really enjoyed the FMC, Maple Bishop, and I enjoyed her even more after finding out that she's based on a real woman named Frances Glessner Lee. I'll be honest, I haven't done research yet on Frances but this book definitely inspired a desire to learn more about her. We learn a little bit about her from this book and learn a bit about her strong contribution to forensic science.

Maple Bishop, was an interesting character. I thought she was strongly written, compelling, and intelligent. The sleuthing and time period of this book and book 1 were both very satisfying to me. It felt atmospheric and I was really able to immerse myself in the story. I'm not sure if this is only meant to be a duology or if more books are coming, but if this series is going to continue, I'll definitely keep reading.

I think if you're a fan of Sherlock Holmes, this story might resonate with you. It had similar vibes in my opinion.

Thank you to NetGalley and Crooked Lane Books for the ARC. All opinions are my own.

[Matt · Rating 4 out of 5]

First and foremost, a large thank you to NetGalley, Katie Tietjen, and Crooked Lane Books for providing me with a copy of this publication, which allows me to provide you with an unbiased review.

Always eager to try new authors and their books, I returned to this unique crime thriller series by Katie Tietjen. After being highly impressed by the series debut, I gladly accepted this ARC and found that it held up once more. Maple Bishop has made a name for herself as a miniature dollhouse builder, but also enjoys dabbling in the odd mystery. When a young firefighter dies when his house goes up in flames, Maple and the sheriff's deputy begin looking into things. This leads them to Maple's old stomping grounds in Boston, where much more is revealed, including a connection to a life the victim likely wanted shelved. As Maple forges on, she discovers just how dangerous sleuthing work can be. Katie Tietjen delivers a great piece that has all the elements for a successful series.

Maple Bishop enjoys the distraction of her work as a dollhouse building, able to construct things in miniature and bring happiness to all her clients. However, she also enjoys being a consultant for the local sheriff in her small Vermont community. Maple masks the loss of her husband, but his death still forces her to spiral on occasion. After the discovery of a new firefighter’s body has the police asking questions, Maple tags along with the sheriff's deputy, Kenny, to investigate. The victim appears to have died in a fire within his own abode, making things all the more troubling. However, with the use of miniature replicas of the crime scene, Maple hopes to shed some light on what might have happened.

After Maple learns that there is more to the story than a simple fire that got out of control, she and Kenny head to Boston for some answers. Maple has not been back since her married days and things are vastly different. Early investigations reveal secrets the victim likely wanted kept hidden and a connection to a criminal past that could explain some of what happened to him. Maple pushes a little too hard to get answers and finds herself in the crosshairs of some dangerous folks. This is offset with a personal revelation as well, creating more spiraling than anyone could have imagined.
Racing to get answers and stay one step ahead of those who would do them harm, Maple seeks to explain the death, no longer presumed to have occurred during an arson, and put things to rest, while also staying out of trouble. This is one case that is sure to keep her up at night, burning the midnight oil, as long as she is not scorched in the process. Katie Tietjen presents a great story and uses wonderful action to build up the tension from the opening pages.

I find much entertainment within the crime thriller genre, particularly when authors can approach things in a unique manner. Katie Tietjen does this effortlessly and provides the reader with a strong story. The narrative sets the tone in the opening pages and keeps the reader guessing when things progress at break-neck speed. The mysteries layer themselves on top of one another and provide the reader something exciting on which to focus, while learning a great deal. Characters emerge and deliver their own flavouring to the larger reading experience, keeping the reader wondering. Much can be said of Maple Bishop, whose backstory and personal development work in tandem. Plot points keep things fresh and the reader is left with a few surprises to tide them over until the final reveal. I am eager to see where things are headed and what Katie Tietjen has in store next in this collection.

Kudos, Madam Tietjen, for a great crime thriller!

Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at: http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/

[Sue Miz · Rating 4 out of 5]

"When the sheriff needed her keen eyes and photographic memory, he'd call on her"

First, a thank you to NetGalley, the author, and Crooked Lane Books for approving the e-ARC for my honest opinion.

I think what captured my interest from the beginning was that this book is based on a real female investigator. And not just anyone, but Frances Glessner Lee who was influential in developing the science of forensics in the mid 19s.



This is book 2 in the Maple Bishop series, and although you do not need to read book 1 to understand this one, I found myself reading it because I was very intrigued.

Ms Maple is a widower living in the small town of Elderberry. In book 1, she helped the sheriff solve a murder by re-creating the scene of the crime using "a nutshell" - basically like a doll house.
In book 2, she has a business of making doll houses.
The sheriff needs her help again when a beloved firefighter dies in a house fire. This being suspicious, Maple would use four "nutshell" replicas to study how the fire happened and whether it was an accident or an act of arson.

She is reunited with Kenny, a previous character from book 1 and friend of the deceased, and together they set out to solve the murder where their path will take them into a bigger case.

What I liked mostly

The book started with a quick pace in the first 30 pages and then in the last 100 pages. The events unraveled nicely and without any plotholes.

New characters are introduced whom I think they'd have significant parts in future books.

Also, although some twists felt predictable, the overall story and mystery kept me on the edge of my seat

What felt short for me was the middle of the book. I felt it stretched and some parts were unnecessary tending towards being boring somehow.

Overall, I enjoyed the book and loved reading 2 books about a real life female hero

[Patty · Rating 3 out of 5]

Murder in Miniature (book two of the Maple Bishop Series), features the aforementioned Maple Bishop, who is loosely based on the phenomenal “Mother of Forensic Science”, Frances Glessner Lee (1878-1962). Thy both created dioramas—nutshell studies—that meticulously replicated crime scenes that were used to train investigators, and solve crimes.

The widowed Maple makes dollhouses for rich people. The business is thriving not only because of her skill as a craftswoman, but also from the publicity she garnered after helping the local sheriff solve a murder (book one). She is called again by Sheriff Sam Scott—who now calls Maple a colleague—to work on a case close to home. Along with the young deputy Kenny Quirk and Fire Chief Curt Orson, Maple investigates the who, what, where, when, how, and why of Daniel Perkins’ murder.

One morning, Daniel is found dead in his smoldering cabin by his friend, Peter who was there to pick up Daniel for their shift at the fire station. After extinguishing the fire, Peter drives to Kenny’s—a friend of Daniel and Peter—to find help. After calling it in, they proceed back to the cabin where they find Daniel, sitting up and dead. It appears the fire has been set intentionally, meaning someone wanted him dead. Who could it be? Daniel had involved with the Irish mob in Boston; although he had walked away from that life, could it be someone from the mob? Or could it be someone else known or unknown? Maple—with her photographic memory and observational skills—helps in the search for answers.

Maple (why do heroines have these these type of names?) is a tireless, fearless, and intelligent investigator. Her nutshells are used to test possible accelerants. Along with Kenny, they travel to Boston in search of clues. The ending ties up the murder and lingering questions about the future of many of the characters.

I received this book as an ARC, so I shouldn’t judge the book for errors. There were a few that I hope got cleaned up before publication. The writing is good, and the story line was overall entertaining. Unusual for me, I figured out who did it by page 15 (there are 277 pages in total). This did not ruin it for me because the characters were so likable.

If you like cozy mysteries, or are in need of a light read, you may find this book enjoyable.

I would like to thank Crooked Lane Press and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this novel.

[Michaela | bumblebeeslibrary · Rating 4 out of 5]

Murder in Miniature, a Maple Bishop mystery, is a historical fiction/mystery novel.

I had never read a mystery like this, in which the main character creates miniature versions of the crime scenes to re-enact the crime, and find the true culprit. I thought this was really clever, and love that FMC Maple Bishop is written based on Frances Glessner Lee, an amazing woman and forensic pioneer.

We follow along as Maple and Kenny work to solve the mystery of a death by cabin fire that seems to be no accident. While Maple continues to make her dollhouses on the side, a turn in the case has her and Kenny taking a trip to Boston to try and get the toxicology test results faster. Maple is from Boston, and is still uneasy with the events surrounding her brother's death. So, while working their current case, her and Kenny ask for files on Maple's brother. Maple learns some things she did not know, and is able to talk to the cop who found her brother. While in Boston, Maple and Kenny also manage to tangle themselves in with the mob. All the while, Maple has been working on creating 4 nutshells of the crime scene, so that they can re-enact the fire at the cabin with 4 different potential causes for the fire. As more clues slowly unfold, and they determine how the fire was started, someone they never expected turns out to be the culprit.

I loved the nutshells that Maple created for this crime scene. Again, I find this way of analyzing a murder case to be extremely fascinating, and a lot of work! The level of detail that Maple puts into these nutshells is amazing. But it really allows the cops to view the case from an objective point of view, especially since they knew the deceased as a close friend. With Maple's nutshells able to inform them on how the fire was started, they are able to really narrow down and figure out who could have started it.

Again, I am so impressed that this is how a real woman pioneered to forensic science! I love the detail in how the author describes Maple creating the nutshells too, you can really visualize them!

Thank you so much to Netgally, Crooked Lane Books, and the author for a copy of this book!

[Kat (Katlovesbooks) Dietrich · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 stars

Murder in Miniature by Katie Tietjen is the second in the Maple Bishop mystery series. 


First, let me thank NetGalley, the publisher Crooked Lane Books, and the author, for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.


So, yes, this is a cozy mystery, but I'm becoming a fan of the characters, so it looks like I'll be following Maple's adventures for a while.

Maple is a really intelligent woman, who sometimes (often) lacks social skills.  She also seems very uncertain as to what she really wants out of life.  Is it crime scene investigations, creating dollhouses, becoming a lawyer...or something else.  Personally, I wish she would make up her mind, because it is getting annoying. Her thoughts are quite repetitive.  Also, I've never been a fan of children in my mystery stories, so I'm hoping that doesn't change....which it could.   

The other characters continue to grow on me.  Kenny and the sheriff are key players, and both are important to Maple.  Ben will probably play a bigger part soon.  As will the new doctor.

The book does look at a number of issues which are central to the era.  Misogyny was a problem in the 1940's.  So was bigotry.  Both of these were front and center in this book.  Unfortunately, not everything has improved. 

The book also looks at family, at friendship, and what home means.  

The plot was really good, and although I was suspicious of one character, and my assumption proved to be correct, there were enough others around to keep things interesting.

Overall, it was a very quick read, with interesting characters, but I'm still not convinced that I'll stick with Maple.  I think I'll decide after book 3.

Anyway, until next time....


For a more thorough review of this book and others (including the reason I chose to read/review this book, my own synopsis of the book, its author information and a favorite quotation or two from this book), please visit my blog: http://katlovesbooksblog.wordpress.com/

[Shelleyrae at Book'd Out · Rating 4 out of 5]

Katie Tietjen draws inspiration from Frances Glessner Lee and her ‘Nutshell Studies of Unexplained Death’ in her clever and engaging murder mystery series. Though Murder in Miniature is the second instalment featuring Maple Bishop it reads well as a stand-alone.

In book one of the series (Death in the Details), frustrated by local law enforcement’s disinterest in the death of a client, miniaturist Maple created a replica of the crime scene in order to prove anomalies in the investigation, ultimately exposing a web of small town corruption. Despite the rocky start to their professional relationship, when a firefighter cadet is discovered burnt to death in his bed and elements of the crime scene don’t quite make sense, Sheriff Sam Scott calls in Maple to consult.

I enjoyed the well-plotted mystery which encompasses arson, robbery, and organised crime. Maple’s four miniature recreations of the crime scene provide some answers in the case but the investigation widens, leading Maple and Deputy Kenny Quirk to her hometown of Boston, where several surprises, both professional and personal, lay in wait.

Maple’s photographic memory, her background as the first female graduate of the law school at Boston City College and as the widow of a doctor, make her uniquely qualified as an amateur sleuth. She’s a well-rounded, mature character, forthright and sensible, but not infallible. Still grieving her husband Maple is not quite settled in Elderberry, yet has built a thriving business as a doll house maker to deliver herself from penury, and is developing some supportive friendships.

Set in post World War II Vermont, Murder in Miniature is well grounded in time and place. I was quickly invested in the story, but I think the pace can best be described as measured, there are brief moments of urgency, but the focus is on character development and intrigue rather than drama.

An interesting and satisfying cozy mystery, I enjoyed Murder in Miniature and look forward to continuing with the series.

[Corinne · Rating 4 out of 5]

My 6P review: Premise, Plot, People, Place, Prose/Pace, Praise

Maple Bishop uses her dollhouse making skills to recreate crime scenes. Working with the local Sheriff, and her close friend Kenny, they investigate the death of the local firefighter.

This was such a unique story set in the 1950’s post-war Boston.

Although there wasn’t much of a mystery because it could only have been the one person given the details supplied by Maple, I still enjoyed it.

I loved the miniature scenes Maple created and I really liked her independent nature.
This story was inspired by the real life of Frances Glessner Lee which made it even more interesting.

With a beautiful cover too, what was there not to like about this book.

Score 130/150= 8.6

Thank you to Netgalley for an advanced readers copy in exchange for an honest review.

[Sophia]

A firefighter dies as a fire victim in his own home. A widowed dollhouse maker and amateur detective and forensics specialist partners with a local sheriff’s deputy to investigate. Katie Tietjen and her mid-twentieth century Maple Bishop series were new to me, but I was intrigued the Maple Bishop character based on a real-life criminology pioneer and set-in small-town Vermont.

My full review will post on my Instagram page @sophiarose1816 on 10.30.25

[kaseii · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 ⭐️

Thank you NetGalley and the author for providing me with an ARC of the book!

This book was genuinely a great read. A cozy murder mystery, with just the right amount of somber feelings and wholesomeness. Totally gonna read the first one!

What I liked:
- Writing: Immersive, well written, and just the perfect amount of words. The emotional scenes, or the wholesome scenes were perfect. Nothing too much or too less.
- The plot: Well Researched and informative actually. I found myself getting curious at times by some of the facts. It was also tied up perfectly which was quite satisfying.
- Relatable: The parts where Maple gets annoyed, or when Kenny taunts her, or when Sheriff Sam gets grumpy were kinda funny. The humour was great.
- Length: It was short and great.
- The vibe between Kenny and Maple was sweet and funny. You can sense the camaraderie.
- The dialogues: Very real! The dialogues themselves were very expressive, it seemed to me that each character had been worked upon!

What I disliked:
- Other than the fact that it was a bit predictable, nothing.


Tl;dr: Well written, sweet length, great read if you’re looking for a short and curious read! Enjoyable!

[Lisa M. · Rating 4 out of 5]

Murder in Miniatrue is book 2 in the Maple Bishop series. This book picks up a couple months after book one. Maple has a thriving dollhouse business now and has been recognized as a consultant for the local sheriff. She's called out to help the sheriff when there is a fire at a home where a body is found. Although initially suspected as being an accident, the sheriff asks Maple to take a good look to document everything she sees.

This particular case ends up having Maple using techniques where she makes four sets of the same bedroom scene so they can test arson theories. additionally the course of events takes her back to Boston where she's able to get some closure on her brother's case and learn something that knocks her speechless in the process.

Like the first one, this is a clean novel of mystery. There is a brief hint towards a pair of ladies not being "just" friends, but that's all there is. A vague inference, nothing more.

4 Stars. I will definitely keep on with this series. It's clever.

*Thank you to the publishers and Net Galley for an ARC of this novel. All opinions are 100% my own.

[Lucy Ritzmann · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is pretty much everything you could ask for in a murder mystery! I will say I think I correctly guessed the whodunnit of it all about 50% of the way through, which I was hoping I was wrong about. But I still found Maple a great protagonist and enjoyed being in her POV.

[Cristina · Rating 3 out of 5]

An easy to read, cute & cozy murder mystery. Perfect for a rainy day.

[Tina Panik · Rating 4 out of 5]

A solid second installment of the series.

[Barb · Rating 4 out of 5]

Maple’s dollhouse business is doing well, and she is also working as a crime scene consultant for the sheriff’s office. When the body of an aspiring firefighter is found in the remains of a burned-out cabin, many consider it an unfortunate accident. But Maple and a few others think that’s not the case, and the ensuing investigation takes them to the neighborhood in Boston where Maple is from, where long-held secrets come to light.

I enjoyed this book as much as the first in the series. It’s good to see Maple settling into her new life and strengthening friendships made in the first book. She is still struggling with the loss of her husband, but doesn’t let that stop her from moving on with her life, even if it’s one small step at a time. She has good people around her, and she’s learning to rely on them when she needs support.

The victim found in the remains of the fire was someone most people in town knew, and their feelings about him were mixed. That said, there didn’t seem to be any obvious suspects who might want to see him dead, so I was unable to pinpoint even one most likely killer. When the crime was explained, it was sad but made perfect sense.

I hope this series continues, as I would like to spend more time in Massachusetts with Maple and the rest.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book.

[Cathy Cole · Rating 4 out of 5]

Having had mixed reactions to the first Maple Bishop mystery, Death in the Details, I was interested in what the second, Murder in Miniature, had in store. I'm happy to say that all systems are go, and I'm looking forward to the third book.

Watching Maple create the dollhouses that people want, as well as her miniature crime scene models, fascinates me. This is the major reason why I was first intrigued by this series. Still grieving the death of her husband, Maple has made friends in this small town, and being able to help the local sheriff helps satisfy her in other ways. After all, she's a trained lawyer who's had no success in finding a firm that wants to hire a woman, hence her move to Vermont.

When the complicated investigation takes Kenny and Maple to Boston, we learn more about Maple's past, setting her up for a major decision in the next book in the series. I'm looking forward to finding out the choice Maple makes.

(Review copy courtesy of the publisher and Net Galley)

[Belinda (Belle) Witzenhausen · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received a complimentary ARC copy of Murder in Miniature (Maple Bishop #2), A Novel by Katie Tietjen from Net Galley and Crooked Lane Books in order to read and give an honest review.

In this second installment in the Maple Bishop Mystery series Murder in Miniature by Katie Tietjen we pick up with Maple Bishop who is slowly regaining her equillibrium after the events of book one and the grief she had experienced after losing her mother, her brother and becoming a war widow all while adapting to a strange new town. It feels that Maple has finally settled into the sleepy little town of Elderberry with her dollhouse business thriving, and now, officially a crime scene reconstruction consultant to the local police department. Once on track to being a lawyer she finds that she is happy to be able to use her skills to help bring justice to others and it helps her find her place. Now back on a path, although wary, she finally feels like she has settled in, surrounded by friends who now feel like the family she lost.

When her colleague and friend Kenny loses his best friend, a fireman, in a mysterious fire, he is distraught and Maple, who is no stranger to loss, is there for her friend. Working together in an official capacity they set out to solve the mystery behind the remote cabin fire which to both of them does not seem to be a simple accident. Using her unique skills Maple replicates various versions of miniature crime scenes inside nutshells to recreate the burn patterns and try to determine where the fire originated and what accelerant was used.

With another major crime pulling resources and a rush to get toxicology results, they decide to take the samples with them when they go to notify his friend’s next of kin and decide to make an impromptu trip to Boston. For Maple, Boston is her hometown and this trip also holds unpleasant memories alongside a hope that perhaps she will one day find answers about her brother’s death. The trip is unpleasant for both of them, Kenny must break the news to his friend’s ill mother about her son’s death, and Maple is forced to face memories of her brother’s suspicious death. While working their current case, Kenny also requests files on Maple’s brother, and they work together to get answers. Maple discovers things she didn’t know and finally gets the answers she desperately needed. In Boston, Maple and Kenny also attract the attention of the mob and uncover that there is much more to the fire in the sleepy little town. During their investigation, what they uncover confirms his friend held secrets, secrets that may have gotten him killed, and Maple edges closer to understanding the truth about her brother’s death.

I enjoyed the book, I did like the first book better. but this entry was a quick and entertaining read. I really enjoy the protagonist, Maple, who is incredibly well-developed; her response to grief feels relatable as does her honesty and tenacity. Even more impressive is that she is inspired by the real “mother of forensic science,” Frances Glessner Lee, who was instrumental in founding the first-of-its-kind Department of Legal Medicine at Harvard University during the infancy of forensic science. Lee created intricately detailed miniature crime scenes, called “Nutshell Studies of Unexplained Death,” used to train homicide investigators. This series is unique, well-written, and cleverly plotted with a believable protagonist, a quirky cast of characters, and wonderfully twisty mysteries that reach a satisfying conclusion. I wholeheartedly recommend this series and truly hope there are more Maple Bishop books to come.

[Robin · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am a huge fan of this nascent series with its unusual premise and strong and interesting main character. Maple Bishop is a widow who has settled in tiny Elderberry, Vermont, after the death of her doctor husband. It’s just post WWII and Maple had been struggling financially, but is now making a piecemeal living selling the dollhouses she makes, as well as consulting with the police.

Maple’s expertise is based on the real Frances Glessner Lee, the mother of crime scene investigation, who created tiny “nutshells” recreating the details of murder scenes. As this book opens, Maple is called out on a case by the Sherriff, who takes her to the scene of a fire. Tragically, her friend Deputy Kenny’s childhood friend has perished. While Maple was excited to be called out on a case, when she arrives at the scene, the actual details of the fire and of the man who burned to death are so gruesome she has a hard time taking in the crime scene.

All that is set to one side when she sees her friend Kenny’s distress as well as the anguish of another childhood friend of Kenny’s, now a firefighter, who had arrived to pick him up for his shift, only to discover his body. While Maple is what we might diagnose today as suffering from low grade autism, it’s this very quality that enables her to shut the world out and take in the details around her. It’s why she’s so good at crime scenes.

Hanging over from the last book was the death of Maple’s brother, Jamie, who died in jail after a long series of petty arrests. Maple has never felt at ease with the way he died or with the way she was told about it. When it turns out the dead man’s mother is in a Boston hospital, Maple and Kenny are dispatched there by the sheriff to give her notice of the death.

When the two arrive in Boston at the busy police station where they have a contact, they find a swarm of activity as a huge bank robbery has just gone down. Despite this, their contact in the department sits them down in his office and takes the time to talk to them about the notification. Appreciating his efforts, the two head out from their rooming house in the morning to notify her, only to find she’s gone. They turn back to the Boston detective as the woman’s husband had mob ties, and it seems the dead man did too.

Maple and Kenny are able to find her as well as to find some information about Jamie’s death, thanks again to the Boston detective who steers them in the right direction. While it feels like Maple is tying off some loose ends, more open up when she’s offered a job in town. She’s torn as she’s finally begun to think of tiny Elderberry as home and to find friends and a purpose there, even if her living is piecemeal. The Boston job would give her security.

Back home, it’s Maple’s expertise and her nutshells that help to figure out how the fire was set, and it’s her eye for detail that eventually cracks the case. This is a very well thought out and well told mystery with the added bonus of a very strong character at the center of the action. While these could be craft cozies – or police novels – they are in a happy liminal space, utilizing the best aspects of both types of mystery novel, with a heavy dose of traditional detective work binding the story together. I am already looking forward to another adventure with Maple.

[Audrey Stars in Her Eye · Rating 3 out of 5]

Murder in Miniature is the second entry in the Maple Bishop series (inspired by the true story of badass Frances Glessner Lee, whose miniature replicas of crime scenes are still used to train forensic investigators today). In this novel, where there’s smoke, there’s fire. And death. And the mob. And a secret love child!
Maple Bishop has a thriving dollhouse business while also serving as a consultant for the local police department. She’s learning to slowly love again after the death of her husband in the war, and she has a cat to keep her company. All is good—until an aspiring firefighter dies in a fire at his cabin. Maple is asked to use her Nutshell miniatures to determine if the fire is an accident or arson. While she does this, the local sheriff sends them to Boston to find the dead’s mother. Maple agrees because they are headed to where Maples used to live, and she wants to get more info about how her brother died so many years ago. As she builds her Nutshell and they search through the cases, everything becomes more dangerous because there is more going on than just a burned cabin.
When I first decided to read this one, I didn’t realize this was a second in a series. I just knew it was inspired by Glessner Lee, the Mother of Forensic Science, who used miniatures in her work, and was so excited to read it. And while this story was based on two specific Nutshell Studies, I was displeased with how little they were featured in the story. But realizing this was a second in the series, it made more sense that they had already been introduced and their importance already established. That being said, story-wise wise I was also able to pick up without feeling lost, though I felt Katie Tietjen repeated herself a few too many times.
The story itself is mysterious, branching into at least three separate stories. And I have to say the ending left a lot to be desired. It was heartbreaking and rather cruel. But a lot of crime is like that, so the writer hit her mark on that note. The red herring and the forethought of the actual killer are well thought-out and done well. It reminds me more of an Agatha Christie novel than books that I have read lately, where the authors have tried to emulate the author herself. The only issue I had was that Maple’s personality often confused me. She was often so critical of the way others treated her, but never as critical of her own behavior. I’d say the author was trying to put the character on the spectrum, but she was too keen on criminal behavior. Maybe I did miss something by not reading the first.
I do want to pick up the first book in the Maple Bishop Series. This could prove to be an entertaining mystery series.

I received an ARC from the publisher; all opinions are my own.

[Angie · Rating 3 out of 5]

Thanks to NetGalley and Crooked Lane Books for an Advanced Reader Copy - pub date 9/23/2025. I love a good mystery especially if it has an interesting female lead and even more so if it tickles my knowledge of forensics and forensic history. Enter Maple Bishop, a WWII widow in Vermont, who uses her perfect memory and knack for noticing details to keep her bills paid by making elaborate custom doll houses and, more incidentally, acting as a consultant for her small town's police department. Yes, Maple is inspired by the amazing mother of crime scene recreation Frances Glessner Lee and it is delightful to see the tribute in each tiny nutshell scene she builds. Maple also has more than a dash of Temperance "Bones" Brennan to her in regards to her blunt nature, lack of social niceties, and powerful intellect.

This is the second book in the series and it is entertaining enough that, despite not having read the first, I would read more. It is a fairly light read and easy despite the more gruesome details and some serious topics such as the mental health system of the US in the late 40's/early 50's and racism. In this one, Maple and crew are faced with a cabin fire that appears to have taken the life of policy officer Kenny's best friend. But did it? Following their investigation and Maple's impressive orientation to details, things get a lot more complicated and, to make things harder, Maple has to face the remaining questions from her own brother's death.

Overall, it is enjoyable and evocative of the time and place, peppered with lovely details to further cement the feel. I did figure out more or less what happened earlier but that's not to say everyone will. (My recent track record for pre-solving twists or mysteries has been better than normal LOL) The talent of the author is enough that knowing ahead of time did not leave me enjoying it any less. Many of the characters maintain their charm and interest, no matter what. If there is anything to disrupt my pleasure in the book, it is a usual sort of thing in a series aka the book references too many times to the previous book to keep the fact that this is a series in mind. There is a very fine balance when it comes to books in a row, to be honest, and it's hard to get it just right. It's nice to have those call-backs but, if it's too frequent, you risk throwing someone who hasn't read it off kilter or boring someone who has read it.

No matter what, though, it looks like Maple and crew have a lot of interesting things to explore and, when I'm in the mood for an almost-cozy small-town mystery, Katie Tietjen's Maple Bishop will be put on the list.

[J Kromrie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this eARC.

🕵️‍♀️ Katie Tietjen’s Murder in Miniature is a cozy mystery with a forensic twist, where dollhouses become crime scenes and nostalgia hides danger. Set in post-WWII Vermont, this second installment in the Maple Bishop series blends historical intrigue, emotional depth, and miniature sleuthing into a charming yet surprisingly dark tale.

🏡 Premise & Plot

Maple Bishop, a war widow and dollhouse artisan, moonlights as a crime scene consultant for the local sheriff’s office. When a cabin fire reveals the body of a young firefighter—someone close to Maple’s confidant Kenny—she’s called in to determine whether it was an accident or arson. Her method? Reconstructing the scene in miniature. But as clues lead back to her old Boston neighborhood, Maple must confront buried family secrets and a past she’s tried to forget.

🔍 What Makes It Unique

- Miniatures as Forensics: Inspired by real-life forensic pioneer Frances Glessner Lee, Maple’s tiny reconstructions aren’t just clever—they’re crucial to solving the case.

- Historical Texture: Tietjen evokes postwar Vermont with quiet precision, layering in social tensions, grief, and the slow rebuilding of lives.

- Emotional Undercurrents: Maple’s personal losses and her evolving relationship with Kenny add emotional resonance to the procedural plot.

- Atmospheric Mystery: The blend of cozy charm and noir undertones gives the story a unique tonal balance—think Miss Marple meets The Boston Mob.

🧠 Themes That Resonate

- Grief & Resilience: Maple’s sleuthing is as much about healing as it is about justice.

- Truth in Detail: The novel celebrates observation—how the smallest details can reveal the biggest truths.

- Community & Isolation: Maple’s journey explores how connection can be both a refuge and a risk.

🗝️ Final Thoughts

Murder in Miniature is more than a cozy mystery—it’s a meditation on memory, craftsmanship, and the courage to confront the past. Tietjen crafts a heroine who’s as meticulous as she is magnetic, and a mystery that unfolds like a dollhouse—each room revealing a new secret. Whether you’re drawn to historical fiction, forensic puzzles, or emotionally rich storytelling, this one’s worth stepping inside.

[Kari · Rating 4 out of 5]

Book review: 3.75/5 ⭐️
Genre: murder mystery
Themes: forensics, found family, investigative process

Small town life is growing on Maple Bishop. With a booming dollhouse business, a group of dedicated colleagues and caring friends, she seems to be adapting well to her new circumstances, at least from the outside. The death of her husband still looms large in Maple’s life, as is her

When a firefighter in training is found dead in his home, Maple is called in to assess the scene with her keen eye. As a close friend of the sheriff’s deputy Kenny, this loss is hitting the community hard, but it is unclear if it really was an accident or an intentional case of arson. With an oddity to the charring and state of the body, Maple will seek to identify any discrepancies and rule out potential scenarios with her signature nutshell recreations.

The mystery was interesting and well thought out. The plot took the cast to Boston, where Maple was confronted by her old past, while the potential for murder grew. With a layered mystery and several points of interest both on the personal side and on the case, this cozy mystery had a unique twist for the amateur sleuth.

I had never heard of using mini replicas for forensic investigations, and as you know I love learning something new in a novel, so this element really intrigued me. Inspired by the true story of Frances Glessner Lee whose creations are still used in forensic training to this day, and with a real amalgamation of cases she worked on, this was a historical mystery with a layer of truth.

The part that bothered me the most was having this female lead who worked so hard to make her way though law school, with all the adversity of being a woman and from a low income neighbourhood within that bourgeois sphere only to forgo a chance to actually practice any law. This judgement probably comes from a little mirroring with my own life, but it was a point I latched onto that I couldn’t let go of and that ultimately left a note on my palette.

That was really my only real critique on this mystery. It was slower paced and on the cozier end, so it was a brilliant opening for my fall reading. Thank you to Netgalley and Crooked Lane Books for an eARC. Looking forward to continuing solving mysteries with Maple.

[Cathy Geha · Rating 4 out of 5]

Murder in Miniature by Katie Tietjen
A Maple Bishop Mystery #2

Intriguing, immersive, and intricately crafted story that seamlessly continues Maple Bishop’s story in Elderberry, Vermont as she once again uses her skills creating miniature to-scale crime scene “nutshells” to help solve a murder.

What I liked:
* Maple Bishop: widow, holds a law degree, consultant on call for the local sheriff’s department, fledgling booming miniature dollhouse business, cat owner, feeling more a part of the community, budding relationship with Ben Crenshaw, curious, quiet, a bit aloof, forthright, good friend
* Kenny: young police officer, dedicated, committed, stalwart & true, honest, bright, good friend, works well with Maple, in a relationship with a young reporter
* Ben Creshaw: widow, hardware shop owner, gave space to Maple in his store do display her miniature Scott: revitalized with new focus after working with Maple, gruff but mellowing
* Ken: Kenny’s father, war veteran, carpenter, PTSD, nightmares, working with Maple on the miniature houses
* Charlotte: Maple’s best friend and mother of three little boys
* Cece & Eliza: visiting from Hollywood while closing up the home of Eliza’s father – play a big part in the story and may return in the next book
* Detectives Francis and Officer Halpern: provided support and information to Maple and Kenny when they went to Boston
* Maple meeting Miranda, Maggie, and Sophie in Boston and thinking about their parts in future books
* Learning more about the part the “nutshells” played in solving murder crimes
* That Maple had some closure on her brother’s death and that more than one case was solved by the end of the book

What I didn’t like:
* Who and what I was meant not to like
* Leo Mathews: Irish mafia, career criminal having committed more than one horrible crime
* Thinking about the impact war had on more than one character in the story
* Thinking about the impact that bigotry and racism had in this era…and still can have today

Did I like this book? Yes
Would I read more in this series? Yes

Thank you to NetGalley and Crooked Lane for the ARC – This is my honest review.

4-5 Stars

[Daphne Sharpe · Rating 5 out of 5]

Maple Bishop is now working as an independent crime consultant for her local sheriffs department in Elderberry, Vermont, following events in book one.
This leaves her free to carry on her business of making dolls houses, these miniature creations helped her to solve a crime and become an accepted part of her adopted town.
A dead body has been found in a cabin in the local back woods, it has been badly burnt, Maple is asked to use her skills in the investigation.
The dead man is known to both the sheriff and Kenny, his assistant. The man who found his body is a fellow firefighter, all three men were childhood friends and grew up together, until they left to join up for the war effort. Only recently were they reunited.
Maple trained in Legal Medicine in Boston, but couldn’t find employment there, so she and her late husband moved to Elderberry. Her training kicks in as she starts to examine the charred remains of the cabin, what started the fire, and was it deliberate or a tragic accident?
Maple decides to build four small models to test the effects of various accelerants that could have been used.
Book one dealt with the technicalities of early forensic medicine, this book carries on with a story that involves Maple personally in the form of her brother who died some years ago. Can the earlier tragedy help to unlock the mystery of the death in the cabin?
There are some very intricate details and a complicated story that involves mental health issues and a probable connection to the Irish mob. The attention to detail is absorbing and diligent.
Maple Bishop is based upon Frances Glessner Lee, who is considered the mother of Forensic Science in America, her ideas helped to train police investigators and paved the way for the formation of experts in the form of Medical Examiners in crime situations.
A very interesting read. If you look up details of her work, two of her models are used in this story, Burned Cabin and Saloon and Jail, both relevant to her investigations.

[Bethan · Rating 4 out of 5]

|:: Murder In miniature
By Katie Tietjen
Chapter 18 Page 117
4.5 🌟🌟🌟🌟💫

{ A light snow was falling as they made their way back to the car. “I'll drive.”
Kenny beckoned for Maple to hand him the keys, which she did.
“First snow of the season.”
He used the arm of his coat to brush the dusting of snow off their windshield. Maple slid into the passenger seat, her mind spinning with everything she’d just learned. She shivered and pulled her coat tighter around herself.
Kenny hopped into the driver's seat and started the engine. He rubbed his hands together to warm them.
“Why don't you have gloves?” Maple asked.
Kenny gave her a look.
“That's what you're worried about right now?” }

Maple has been through a whole new change in her life in a previous book i never had a chance to read before this one, but it didn't take anything away from me being able to read this one first, we are treated to regular background easter eggs throughout the story and it was so lovely to see a good, wholesome book around friends who come family and family who become strangers.

There were so many twists and turns in this masterpiece that I found it hard not to be impressed with the creativity of it all.

Maple was a delight to follow and learn about, I also loved Kenny, I feel like every girl needs a Kenny in their life. The Chief, I had to warm up to him, but Maple's brother, the whole events surrounding it, made me cry. First with sadness and then sheer joy. I really hope there is a next one. I am dying to see what mischief Maple can come up with next.

I found this beautiful little story rather enchanting. I know there is a new boom around miniature-making these days, so incorporating it into a murder story was pretty impressive. Even more so when I learned the book is actually based on a real-life person!

A huge thank you to Katie Tietjen, Crooked Lane Books and Netgalley for the opportunity to read and relay my honest feedback. ::|

[Sam-TRN · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you Crooked Lane Books and Netgalley for the eARC.

I read book 1, Death In the Details, before starting this one, and while the author does a good job introducing the characters in book 2 in a way that makes reading book 1 unnecessary, it was still a great experience.

This series was inspired by the real life Frances Lee Glessner. This is the intro of this lady’s Wikipedia page and it was enough to get me hooked.

Frances Glessner Lee (March 25, 1878 – January 27, 1962) was an American forensic scientist. She was influential in developing the science of forensics in the United States. To this end, she created the Nutshell Studies of Unexplained Death, twenty true crime scene dioramas recreated in minute detail at dollhouse scale, used for training homicide investigators. Eighteen of the Nutshell Studies of Unexplained Death are still in use for teaching purposes by the Maryland Office of the Chief Medical Examiner, and the dioramas are also now considered works of art. Glessner Lee also helped to establish the Department of Legal Medicine at Harvard University, and endowed the Magrath Library of Legal Medicine there.She became the first female police captain in the United States, and is known as the "mother of forensic science".

Maple Bishop is a quiet woman, and her vibe, in addition to the assumed calmness of post WWII small town America, is the driving force of this series. It is a interesting juxtaposition with the violent nature of the crimes she helps the local police with.

Maple is probably neurodivergent; and I love the way her mind processes information, emotions and connections with other people.

The mystery was well plotted and I enjoyed watching it unfold as I read the book. Unlike what I usually do while reading mysteries, I tried to read it in a relaxed manner and not try to play detective this time. This paid off and it was a rather relaxing experience.

I would continue reading this series.

[Rachel Drummond · Rating 5 out of 5]

**Analysis:**
*Murder in Miniature* by Katie Tietjen is an inventive murder mystery that takes readers into a meticulously crafted world where the smallest details hide the biggest clues. The novel has been praised for its imaginative premise, clever plotting, and richly atmospheric setting. With a narrative that challenges you to look closer at every seemingly insignificant detail, it’s a must-read for mystery lovers who appreciate puzzles and twists.

****

**Review: *Murder in Miniature* by Katie Tietjen**

*Murder in Miniature* is a refreshingly unique mystery that proves sometimes the tiniest details can hide the darkest secrets. Katie Tietjen invites you into a world that’s as intricate as it is suspenseful, where every small clue could be the key to unraveling a chilling crime.

From the opening pages, the book hooks you with its clever premise—a murder mystery set in a miniature setting that’s so meticulously detailed, you feel like you’re peering into a perfectly crafted diorama. Tietjen’s writing is both engaging and atmospheric, blending moments of tension with surprising twists that keep you guessing at every turn.

What really makes this novel shine is its attention to detail. Every little piece of evidence is carefully woven into the narrative, challenging you to look closer and think deeper. The characters are layered and enigmatic, each with their own secrets, adding to the rich tapestry of suspense that defines this story.

If you’re into mysteries that demand your full attention and reward you with clever, unpredictable storytelling, *Murder in Miniature* is a must-read. Get ready to immerse yourself in a world where the smallest details hold the greatest secrets—and where nothing is as it seems.

**Thank you to NetGalley, the author, and the publisher for the opportunity 💕**