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Aunt Jessica Mystery #1
Murder in Morocco
Camels, kasbars and chaos but not necessarily in that order. Down on his luck, Harry is invited by his Aunt Jessica to accompany her on one of her history tours. When one of the group is murdered and the victim’s wife is arrested, neither Harry or Aunt Jessica are convinced she is guilty. Harry’s attempts to investigate land him in trouble and only with Aunt Jessica’s help can he avoid arrest himself. Like your crime with a touch of humour in a travel setting? If you are a fan of M E Beaton’s Agatha Raison novels or Elizabeth Peters’ Vicky Bliss adventures, you love Aunt Jessica’s adventures. What readers are saying about MURDER IN -‘An absorbing and entertaining whodunnit in the best tradition of British murder mysteries. Interesting characters, excellent plot and pacing, and lots of great local colour of Morocco. Kept me guessing till the very end.’
‘ ‘Another travelling triumph for Miss Cranswick who seems to have all the right sensibilities to juggle crime and humour. This is an admirable undertaking that not everybody manages. I particularly enjoy the settings within her novels although it does give me the pang to travel. Even if there is going to be murder!’
‘ ‘The thing about Judith Cranswick’s books is that you get a wonderful tour of whatever place the story is set in. Judith’s descriptions of various locations in Morocco makes the reader ‘see’ everything. No need to go on an actual tour; just read Judith’s book! She shows her depth of knowledge about Morocco, from the city of Marrakech to the villages in the mountainous regions, including the traditions and the food.’
‘ ‘Just finished reading 'Murder on Morocco' and what an enjoyable read it is. There are plenty of bodies and red herrings along the way and all set against the wonderful Moroccan backdrop, which has been added to my 'must visit' list. There is even tea and cake! There are a whole new set of characters to enjoy so let's hope there are plenty more in the series.’
‘ ‘Another travelling triumph for Miss Cranswick who seems to have all the right sensibilities to juggle crime and humour. This is an admirable undertaking that not everybody manages. I particularly enjoy the settings within her novels although it does give me the pang to travel. Even if there is going to be murder!’
‘ ‘The thing about Judith Cranswick’s books is that you get a wonderful tour of whatever place the story is set in. Judith’s descriptions of various locations in Morocco makes the reader ‘see’ everything. No need to go on an actual tour; just read Judith’s book! She shows her depth of knowledge about Morocco, from the city of Marrakech to the villages in the mountainous regions, including the traditions and the food.’
‘ ‘Just finished reading 'Murder on Morocco' and what an enjoyable read it is. There are plenty of bodies and red herrings along the way and all set against the wonderful Moroccan backdrop, which has been added to my 'must visit' list. There is even tea and cake! There are a whole new set of characters to enjoy so let's hope there are plenty more in the series.’
- GenresMystery
210 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 18, 2017
29 people are currently reading
74 people want to read
About the author
Judith Cranswick
20 books18 followersJudith was born and brought up in Norwich and now lives with her husband in Swindon. She wrote her first novel (now languishing in the back of a drawer somewhere) when her two children were toddlers but there was little time for writing when she returned to work teaching Geography in a large comprehensive and it was only after retirement that she was able to take it up again in earnest.
Judith's first two published novels, 'All in the Mind' and 'Watcher in the Shadows' each won the NAWG Award for Best Unpublished Novel for two years running.
She now works part time teaching Tai Chi as well Creative Writing and lecturing.
Her other hobbies include reading, line dancing and travelling.
"Writers are told to write what they know about but I can assure you, I've never committed a murder. I'm an ex- convent school headmistress for goodness sake!"
Find out more about Judith at www.judithcranswick.co.uk
Judith's first two published novels, 'All in the Mind' and 'Watcher in the Shadows' each won the NAWG Award for Best Unpublished Novel for two years running.
She now works part time teaching Tai Chi as well Creative Writing and lecturing.
Her other hobbies include reading, line dancing and travelling.
"Writers are told to write what they know about but I can assure you, I've never committed a murder. I'm an ex- convent school headmistress for goodness sake!"
Find out more about Judith at www.judithcranswick.co.uk
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 86 reviews
May 11, 2025
In a Nutshell: Lots of Morocco and a fair amount of murder. But not much of a mystery.
Story:
Where the book worked for me:
👍 Jessica and Harry seem like interesting characters. Jessica’s sharpness despite her age and Harry’s shy intelligence make them a good pair. I wish the book had focussed more on their synergy with each other.
👍 I learnt a lot about Morocco. A lot!
👍 In spite of the first person writing, it doesn't include too much of internal monologues. That was a welcome change!
Where the book could have worked better for me:
👎 There are many issues raised in the plot but never developed to satisfaction. Harry’s homosexuality, his family issues, Jessica’s supposedly controversial past all get a random mention but the only focus area seems to be Morocco.
👎 And that brings me to the second point. When a book title says “Murder in Morocco”, I expect a greater focus to be on the murders and not on the place. Here, the inverse was applicable. There is an info dump on Morocco and in between the travel and cultural information, we get the crimes. If you are looking primarily for a crime mystery (as I was), you will be a tad disappointed.
👎 There is an interesting prologue, and I think I know how it fitted in with the main story. Unfortunately, this is just my guesswork because the people in the prologue don’t make an appearance in the main story at all. I’ve never seen a prologue unused in the main plot.
👎 The story feels historical somehow, possibly because of the setting in Morocco. But the mention of smartphones sets it in the contemporary period. I found myself confused about the time period because it just didn’t feel like a contemporary story.
👎 Some scene transitions are too abrupt.
👎 I have heard that it is easier to guess the identity of the killer in cozy mysteries. I don’t know how far this is true as I am not a big cozy mystery fan. But for this book, the claim stands valid. If you keep your eyes open, the clues are clearly in one direction.
All in all, this is a pretty decent cozy mystery but too much of travel info dilutes the mystery element. It is the first in series, so if the author can address these issues, I am sure the next one, which is going to be set in Japan, will be a worthwhile read.
2.75 stars.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author through ‘Voracious Readers Only’ and these are my honest thoughts about it.
***********************
Join me on the Facebook group, Readers Forever! , for more reviews, book-related discussions and fun.
Story:
Harry, a jobless loner who is looked down upon by most of his family members, is invited by his Aunt Jessica to accompany her on one of her history tours. The destination is exotic Morocco, and Harry welcomes the opportunity. The group is made up of diverse people but when one of them gets murdered and another group member is arrested on assumed guilt, the dynamic in the group changes drastically. Harry’s efforts at investigating the crime result in his own name being brought in the radar. Can he clear his name with the help of his Aunt Jessica?
The book comes to us in the first person perspective of Harry.
Where the book worked for me:
👍 Jessica and Harry seem like interesting characters. Jessica’s sharpness despite her age and Harry’s shy intelligence make them a good pair. I wish the book had focussed more on their synergy with each other.
👍 I learnt a lot about Morocco. A lot!
👍 In spite of the first person writing, it doesn't include too much of internal monologues. That was a welcome change!
Where the book could have worked better for me:
👎 There are many issues raised in the plot but never developed to satisfaction. Harry’s homosexuality, his family issues, Jessica’s supposedly controversial past all get a random mention but the only focus area seems to be Morocco.
👎 And that brings me to the second point. When a book title says “Murder in Morocco”, I expect a greater focus to be on the murders and not on the place. Here, the inverse was applicable. There is an info dump on Morocco and in between the travel and cultural information, we get the crimes. If you are looking primarily for a crime mystery (as I was), you will be a tad disappointed.
👎 There is an interesting prologue, and I think I know how it fitted in with the main story. Unfortunately, this is just my guesswork because the people in the prologue don’t make an appearance in the main story at all. I’ve never seen a prologue unused in the main plot.
👎 The story feels historical somehow, possibly because of the setting in Morocco. But the mention of smartphones sets it in the contemporary period. I found myself confused about the time period because it just didn’t feel like a contemporary story.
👎 Some scene transitions are too abrupt.
👎 I have heard that it is easier to guess the identity of the killer in cozy mysteries. I don’t know how far this is true as I am not a big cozy mystery fan. But for this book, the claim stands valid. If you keep your eyes open, the clues are clearly in one direction.
All in all, this is a pretty decent cozy mystery but too much of travel info dilutes the mystery element. It is the first in series, so if the author can address these issues, I am sure the next one, which is going to be set in Japan, will be a worthwhile read.
2.75 stars.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author through ‘Voracious Readers Only’ and these are my honest thoughts about it.
***********************
Join me on the Facebook group, Readers Forever! , for more reviews, book-related discussions and fun.
March 17, 2022
3.5 Stars
One Liner: Decent first book but tends to read like a travelogue.
Harry, a 31-year-old lad, is relieved when his favorite Aunt Jessica asks him to accompany her on a trip to Morocco. He is down on his luck and needs something to cheer him up. The trip seems just like a thing to get him back on track.
But then Aunt Jessica is not only a super talented historian. She is also a force to reckon with. After all, how many 73 years old go around traveling to distant lands with such ease?
When one of the group members is murdered, the man’s wife is arrested for the crime. Aunt Jessica isn’t convinced, and neither is Harry. The lad does his best to investigate the case only to get deeper into trouble. It’s up to Aunt Jessica to solve the crime and get Harry out safe and sound.
My Observations:
• The actual story takes time to start, which is understandable since this is the first book in the series. The first half is slow and focuses more on establishing the characters and the setting.
• Harry and Aunt Jessica are well-defined, and I’m curious to know more. Harry seems more like a young kid, but it makes sense given the background information. The poor lad has to deal with formidable aunts, after all.
• There are touches of Brit humor though not much. It worked for me well enough. What took time was to understand the period of the story. It reads like a historical cozy mystery but talks of smartphones. That was a little confusing.
• The case, as such, is quite simple if you keep track of the details revealed in bits and pieces. Since cozy mysteries don’t have to be complicated, this works well for the story.
• The murder isn’t committed until almost after 40%, which does dampen the mystery effect. The sooner the crime occurs, the more interesting the book gets.
• My biggest issue with the book was the overload of the settings. Sure, it’s a different country (considered exotic by the West), but we don’t need so much information. Some of it felt more like a travelogue and didn’t serve any purpose to the plot.
• Since this is the first book, and the next usually tend to get better, I’m hoping the next ones balance out the elements and put enough focus on the mystery.
To sum up, Murder in Morocco is a decent first book in the series, but I wouldn’t compare it to Christie. It’s good enough but doesn’t reach the mark. Christie set the standards high. Maybe I’ll change my opinion after reading the other books from the series.
I received a review copy from the author via Voracious Readers Only in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.
One Liner: Decent first book but tends to read like a travelogue.
Harry, a 31-year-old lad, is relieved when his favorite Aunt Jessica asks him to accompany her on a trip to Morocco. He is down on his luck and needs something to cheer him up. The trip seems just like a thing to get him back on track.
But then Aunt Jessica is not only a super talented historian. She is also a force to reckon with. After all, how many 73 years old go around traveling to distant lands with such ease?
When one of the group members is murdered, the man’s wife is arrested for the crime. Aunt Jessica isn’t convinced, and neither is Harry. The lad does his best to investigate the case only to get deeper into trouble. It’s up to Aunt Jessica to solve the crime and get Harry out safe and sound.
My Observations:
• The actual story takes time to start, which is understandable since this is the first book in the series. The first half is slow and focuses more on establishing the characters and the setting.
• Harry and Aunt Jessica are well-defined, and I’m curious to know more. Harry seems more like a young kid, but it makes sense given the background information. The poor lad has to deal with formidable aunts, after all.
• There are touches of Brit humor though not much. It worked for me well enough. What took time was to understand the period of the story. It reads like a historical cozy mystery but talks of smartphones. That was a little confusing.
• The case, as such, is quite simple if you keep track of the details revealed in bits and pieces. Since cozy mysteries don’t have to be complicated, this works well for the story.
• The murder isn’t committed until almost after 40%, which does dampen the mystery effect. The sooner the crime occurs, the more interesting the book gets.
• My biggest issue with the book was the overload of the settings. Sure, it’s a different country (considered exotic by the West), but we don’t need so much information. Some of it felt more like a travelogue and didn’t serve any purpose to the plot.
• Since this is the first book, and the next usually tend to get better, I’m hoping the next ones balance out the elements and put enough focus on the mystery.
To sum up, Murder in Morocco is a decent first book in the series, but I wouldn’t compare it to Christie. It’s good enough but doesn’t reach the mark. Christie set the standards high. Maybe I’ll change my opinion after reading the other books from the series.
I received a review copy from the author via Voracious Readers Only in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.
September 23, 2017
Harry Hamilton Jones is out of work and bullied by his overbearing female relatives. Except for one. Aunt Jessica is the black sheep of the family; a septuagenarian travel writer and historian who acts as an expert on tours to exotic locations. And she has engage Harry to act as her assistant on the upcoming trip to Morocco. Everything seems to be going smoothly; and then the bodies start appearing. Can Jessica and Harry stop the wrong person from being charged, and uncloak the true murderer?
Fans of the Fiona Mason series will already be aware of Judith Cranswick's easy-to-read style and gentle humour. And they won't be disappointed by the new series. Written in the first person, from Harry's point of view, we get to hear his thoughts and see the rest of the characters through his eyes. But I suspect that Aunt Jessica is going to end up just as important, and as popular, as her nephew as the series progresses. The research into the locations is as detailed as ever; and I really felt I was travelling around Morocco with the tour party.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book and highly recommend it for anyone who likes cosy murders, or exotic backgrounds with a touch of history thrown in
Fans of the Fiona Mason series will already be aware of Judith Cranswick's easy-to-read style and gentle humour. And they won't be disappointed by the new series. Written in the first person, from Harry's point of view, we get to hear his thoughts and see the rest of the characters through his eyes. But I suspect that Aunt Jessica is going to end up just as important, and as popular, as her nephew as the series progresses. The research into the locations is as detailed as ever; and I really felt I was travelling around Morocco with the tour party.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book and highly recommend it for anyone who likes cosy murders, or exotic backgrounds with a touch of history thrown in
September 24, 2017
Told in the best tradition of Agatha Christie, this book swept me up and set me down in exotic Morocco. It was a delight to read a story which didn't depend on gratuitous violence to make it entertaining. Really enjoyed reading this!
March 1, 2021
Harry lost his job some time ago, so he is delighted to be offered a short-term role accompanying his Aunt Jessica on one of her history tour holidays to Morocco. He is warned by his mother that Aunt Jessica is a handful and that trouble seems to find her, but even Harry couldn't envisage what happens on the tour. First a man who was following the group is murdered, then one of the holiday group themselves is found dying from a stab wound. Can Harry and Aunt Jessica help solve the murders before the wrong person goes to prison?
This was a surprisingly good read. I usually read psychological thrillers and suspense so this was a nice change. Both Harry and Aunt Jessica are characters that I think will continue to improve upon longer acquaintance, and I particularly like Aunt Jessica who is such a character. I love that she still travels extensively, writes books, and leads tours well into her seventies. The plot itself was not convoluted, but there were a few red herrings here and there, and historical detail is sprinkled in liberally. Overall, I would be interested in reading further books in the series.
I received a free copy of the ebook from the author via Voracious Readers Only, and I am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
This was a surprisingly good read. I usually read psychological thrillers and suspense so this was a nice change. Both Harry and Aunt Jessica are characters that I think will continue to improve upon longer acquaintance, and I particularly like Aunt Jessica who is such a character. I love that she still travels extensively, writes books, and leads tours well into her seventies. The plot itself was not convoluted, but there were a few red herrings here and there, and historical detail is sprinkled in liberally. Overall, I would be interested in reading further books in the series.
I received a free copy of the ebook from the author via Voracious Readers Only, and I am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
November 6, 2021
Set in a variety of locations around Morocco, this cosy murder mystery had a great sense of place. I love to read about places I am going to visit, or have been to, or just want to know more about. This book was a terrific introduction to the history and culture of Morocco, without seeming to lecture and all wrapped up in a good story. The characters were very good too! i shall certainly be reading more of this series, even if travel is hard at the moment, at least I can travel in a book!
September 21, 2017
A somewhat lost young man joins his globe-trotting aunt for a lecture tour in Morocco, and gets far more than he bargained for. An absorbing and entertaining whodunnit in the best tradition of British murder mysteries. Interesting characters, excellent plot and pacing, and lots of great local colour of Morocco. Kept me guessing till the very end.
January 24, 2021
Very enjoyable, hard to put down. I read it all in 4 and a half hours. Can't wait to see what aunt jessica gets up to next!
January 2, 2018
Don't let the name "Aunt Jessica" fool you. There is nothing matronly about this series. The story really focuses more on Jessica's nephew who accompanies her on her lecture series excursion to Morocco. This is definitely not a "light" read. Parts read more like a history book or travel guide than a cozy mystery, which I find to be a plus. Very little (if any) objectionable language. There are hints of sexual improprieties, but nothing explicit. The murders are not overly graphic either. An educated person's cozy mystery with international international intrigue as well as a history lesson.
February 11, 2022
***I received a free copy of this book from Voracious Readers Only in exchange for my honest review***
5/5
Harry’s life isn’t going exactly as he planned and with little to no family support (aside from his mother and favorite aunt of course) he is at a loss. His mother’s sisters sound like judgement old bitties with standards higher than (what I imagined in my head as) their drawn on pencil eyebrows.
Cue a rescue from Aunt Jessica. A stylish, vivacious, and worldly 70-something year old woman with a tenacity for living life. She travels the world giving tours and lectures on civilizations and cultures. She is a renowned author, speaker, and journalist. And Harry is about to see her in action.
Aunt Jessica offers Harry the once in a lifetime opportunity to travel with her to Morocco as her assistant. Being that he just lost his job, Harry quickly agrees and off they go. But the trip, filled with architecture and cultural immersion, is interrupted when one thing leads to another and one of the tourists in the group is found dead.
Tangled with lies, deceit, and infidelity, Harry and Aunt Jessica can’t keep themselves from conducting their own investigation to help police catch a killer.
Judith Crainswick has a very Agatha Christie style about her. When she promised a cozy mystery, she definitely delivered. The build up is slow. You have plenty of time to get to know the main characters before you jump right into the action. This makes a huge difference in Harry’s character development from quite, mild mannered, keep-to-himself fellow into a more confident version of himself. This is also the first book in the series and introduction to the main and reoccurring characters take more time now than they might later on in their adventures. Harry and Jessica make an excellent team as they observe and draw conclusions of their situation in Morocco. Jessica builds up a broken down Harry and allows him to be who he is without shame.
This book flew by. While there are 30 chapters, each chapter is only a few pages which my brain receives as rewards for completing another section. It’s easy for me to lose focus on long books with long chapters so these bite-sized pieces at a time make for a real page turner. Plus, I have to say that getting a bit of a history lesson while solving a murder was very intriguing. Judith’s descriptions of the markets, the food, and the traditional events that the tourists are treated to continued to help draw me back into the story.
I really enjoyed Judith’s book and look forward to reading more of her work in the future.
5/5
Harry’s life isn’t going exactly as he planned and with little to no family support (aside from his mother and favorite aunt of course) he is at a loss. His mother’s sisters sound like judgement old bitties with standards higher than (what I imagined in my head as) their drawn on pencil eyebrows.
Cue a rescue from Aunt Jessica. A stylish, vivacious, and worldly 70-something year old woman with a tenacity for living life. She travels the world giving tours and lectures on civilizations and cultures. She is a renowned author, speaker, and journalist. And Harry is about to see her in action.
Aunt Jessica offers Harry the once in a lifetime opportunity to travel with her to Morocco as her assistant. Being that he just lost his job, Harry quickly agrees and off they go. But the trip, filled with architecture and cultural immersion, is interrupted when one thing leads to another and one of the tourists in the group is found dead.
Tangled with lies, deceit, and infidelity, Harry and Aunt Jessica can’t keep themselves from conducting their own investigation to help police catch a killer.
Judith Crainswick has a very Agatha Christie style about her. When she promised a cozy mystery, she definitely delivered. The build up is slow. You have plenty of time to get to know the main characters before you jump right into the action. This makes a huge difference in Harry’s character development from quite, mild mannered, keep-to-himself fellow into a more confident version of himself. This is also the first book in the series and introduction to the main and reoccurring characters take more time now than they might later on in their adventures. Harry and Jessica make an excellent team as they observe and draw conclusions of their situation in Morocco. Jessica builds up a broken down Harry and allows him to be who he is without shame.
This book flew by. While there are 30 chapters, each chapter is only a few pages which my brain receives as rewards for completing another section. It’s easy for me to lose focus on long books with long chapters so these bite-sized pieces at a time make for a real page turner. Plus, I have to say that getting a bit of a history lesson while solving a murder was very intriguing. Judith’s descriptions of the markets, the food, and the traditional events that the tourists are treated to continued to help draw me back into the story.
I really enjoyed Judith’s book and look forward to reading more of her work in the future.
November 1, 2021
Down on his luck, Harry accepts his Aunt Jessica’s invitation to travel to Morocco as her assistant on a lecture tour. Despite Aunt Jessica’s “questionable” reputation in the family, he agrees. The adventure will turn into more than he bargained for! Will he and Aunt Jessica be able to figure out which of their tour participants is a murderer or will they become victims themselves?
I really enjoyed this read. The location is interesting and thoroughly described. I have never traveled to Morocco but the author does a fantastic job of immersing you in the local culture and surroundings at each site. If you’re an armchair travel enthusiast, you will really enjoy the book’s descriptions of the local sites.
I really liked the characters, too. They are well-developed, likeable and multi-dimensional. I’d love to holiday with these folks (minus the murder, of course). Aunt Jessica is whip-smart but not in an off-putting way. And lovable Harry is a great lead. I also appreciated that the author did not describe Aunt Jessica (a septuagenarian) as “elderly” and act like she was a decrepit old woman.
The pace of the story is leisurely and the murder doesn’t occur until almost halfway through the book, though, this pace gives the reader time to get to know all the players. If you prefer a book where the crime happens early on and you spend the remainder in the investigation, this isn’t the book for you, but if you’re willing to spend time learning about the characters and their surroundings, you should enjoy it.
I did guess the murderer earlier on, but it was fun to see how the characters worked it out and whether or not my suspicions proved correct.
All in all, I thoroughly enjoyed the read and would recommend this book and series!
I really enjoyed this read. The location is interesting and thoroughly described. I have never traveled to Morocco but the author does a fantastic job of immersing you in the local culture and surroundings at each site. If you’re an armchair travel enthusiast, you will really enjoy the book’s descriptions of the local sites.
I really liked the characters, too. They are well-developed, likeable and multi-dimensional. I’d love to holiday with these folks (minus the murder, of course). Aunt Jessica is whip-smart but not in an off-putting way. And lovable Harry is a great lead. I also appreciated that the author did not describe Aunt Jessica (a septuagenarian) as “elderly” and act like she was a decrepit old woman.
The pace of the story is leisurely and the murder doesn’t occur until almost halfway through the book, though, this pace gives the reader time to get to know all the players. If you prefer a book where the crime happens early on and you spend the remainder in the investigation, this isn’t the book for you, but if you’re willing to spend time learning about the characters and their surroundings, you should enjoy it.
I did guess the murderer earlier on, but it was fun to see how the characters worked it out and whether or not my suspicions proved correct.
All in all, I thoroughly enjoyed the read and would recommend this book and series!
March 17, 2024
I found this book when I was looking for books set in Morocco. We’ll be going there later this year and I like to start preparing for a trip by reading books set in the places I’ll be visiting. We’ve been to Morocco before and also enjoy reading how others experience the places I know.
Murder in Morocco is the first book of a series with Harry and his aunt Jessica. Aunt Jessica is a travel writer and historian who regularly gets invited to join history themed tours as expert. Cousin Harry is down on his luck and only too happy to join her as her assistant.
The book starts with a a prologue, which is helpful, not only to give some background to the story, but also to add a little intrigue early on, because the mystery itself starts rather late in the book. So if you’re not interested in the travel part of the book, you need some patience before the first victim comes along.
As with the Fiona Mason series, the author's narrative style easily engages the readers and the story feels a bit like a modern Agatha Christie. I enjoyed the description of the places they visit and I liked how Harry and Jessica are getting to know each other better. I do hope the next story has a bit more depth and suspense, because there’s not too much actually happening in this book. They do talk about what happens a lot, but they don’t do very much and are mainly observant spectators.
This book is an easy, comfortable read with a lot of information about Morocco. I enjoyed reading it and look forward to next in the series: Undercover Geisha
Murder in Morocco is the first book of a series with Harry and his aunt Jessica. Aunt Jessica is a travel writer and historian who regularly gets invited to join history themed tours as expert. Cousin Harry is down on his luck and only too happy to join her as her assistant.
The book starts with a a prologue, which is helpful, not only to give some background to the story, but also to add a little intrigue early on, because the mystery itself starts rather late in the book. So if you’re not interested in the travel part of the book, you need some patience before the first victim comes along.
As with the Fiona Mason series, the author's narrative style easily engages the readers and the story feels a bit like a modern Agatha Christie. I enjoyed the description of the places they visit and I liked how Harry and Jessica are getting to know each other better. I do hope the next story has a bit more depth and suspense, because there’s not too much actually happening in this book. They do talk about what happens a lot, but they don’t do very much and are mainly observant spectators.
This book is an easy, comfortable read with a lot of information about Morocco. I enjoyed reading it and look forward to next in the series: Undercover Geisha
October 25, 2023
3.75⭐
A contemporary murder mystery very much in the style of the Golden Age of detective novels, Murder in Morocco is our introduction to the detective duo of Jessica Hamilton & her hapless nephew, Harry.
Unemployed, henpecked by his aunts & homosexual but afraid of heartbreak, Harry really needs something to go his way. Luckily, he's not the only black sheep of the family.
During Christmas revelry, Harry's Aunt Jessica, an esteemed if unlettered, historian and travel writer offers him the role of general dogsbody on her upcoming tour of Morocco.
But whilst the group enjoy awe inspiring architecture & delicious local cuisine mayhem is afoot. Who is the European man following the group? Why does he end up dead in a souk? And who is responsible for the murder of one of their own?
A light & enjoyable read but I was sad that it's actually Harry that's really doing the detecting, not the Aunt Jessica of the cover, especially when he is not half as fascinating as I think Jessica will be shown to be in future adventures.
I didn't guess "whodunnit" but I don't know if that was because there was a paucity of clues although alot of suspects & red herrings or just that I was too busy being immersed in Morocco. There was lots of great writing and some good dialogue. I particularly enjoyed the discussion regarding motive - Lust, Lucre, Loathing and Love!
Thanks to the author via Voracious Readers Only for a copy of this novel in return for review.
A contemporary murder mystery very much in the style of the Golden Age of detective novels, Murder in Morocco is our introduction to the detective duo of Jessica Hamilton & her hapless nephew, Harry.
Unemployed, henpecked by his aunts & homosexual but afraid of heartbreak, Harry really needs something to go his way. Luckily, he's not the only black sheep of the family.
During Christmas revelry, Harry's Aunt Jessica, an esteemed if unlettered, historian and travel writer offers him the role of general dogsbody on her upcoming tour of Morocco.
But whilst the group enjoy awe inspiring architecture & delicious local cuisine mayhem is afoot. Who is the European man following the group? Why does he end up dead in a souk? And who is responsible for the murder of one of their own?
A light & enjoyable read but I was sad that it's actually Harry that's really doing the detecting, not the Aunt Jessica of the cover, especially when he is not half as fascinating as I think Jessica will be shown to be in future adventures.
I didn't guess "whodunnit" but I don't know if that was because there was a paucity of clues although alot of suspects & red herrings or just that I was too busy being immersed in Morocco. There was lots of great writing and some good dialogue. I particularly enjoyed the discussion regarding motive - Lust, Lucre, Loathing and Love!
Thanks to the author via Voracious Readers Only for a copy of this novel in return for review.
September 22, 2017
The thing about Judith Cranswick’s books is that you get a wonderful tour of whatever place the story is set in. Judith’s descriptions of various locations in Morocco makes the reader ‘see’ everything. No need to go on an actual tour; just read Judith’s book! She shows her depth of knowledge about Morocco, from the city of Marrakech to the villages in the mountainous regions, including the traditions and the food.
Amongst the wonderful tour of discovery the reader gets of Morocco, we also have the inevitable murder mystery. Is there a murderer in the small tour party? Did April really kill her husband Dan because of jealousy, or could there be another motive and some other killer? Harry and his Aunt Jessica (sorry, I couldn’t help thinking of Jessica Fletcher; I kept ‘seeing’ her in my mind in this role – and also cast Grady into the role of Harry). However, I do love ‘Murder, She Wrote’ so it wasn’t a bad thing! And of course, while Harry works out some of the plot, Aunt Jessica is there already, she just has to convince the police.
An easy read; from the delightful discovery of a fascinating country to the slipping in of a few dead bodies along the way, it is a story that will keep you engaged.
Amongst the wonderful tour of discovery the reader gets of Morocco, we also have the inevitable murder mystery. Is there a murderer in the small tour party? Did April really kill her husband Dan because of jealousy, or could there be another motive and some other killer? Harry and his Aunt Jessica (sorry, I couldn’t help thinking of Jessica Fletcher; I kept ‘seeing’ her in my mind in this role – and also cast Grady into the role of Harry). However, I do love ‘Murder, She Wrote’ so it wasn’t a bad thing! And of course, while Harry works out some of the plot, Aunt Jessica is there already, she just has to convince the police.
An easy read; from the delightful discovery of a fascinating country to the slipping in of a few dead bodies along the way, it is a story that will keep you engaged.
April 22, 2022
So I love a good murder mystery, crime novels of any kind are probably the 2nd biggest genre that I read. The premise of this book excited me and I was expecting big things. In summary - too much focus on describing Morocco not enough on the murder and mystery.
The positives :
- Aunt Jessica and Harry : these two work wonderfully together. Aunty Jessica has some cracking one lines and I would have loved to see more of their relationship built into the story
- Location : it’s not every day you read a book set in Morocco. It was a welcome change to be reading a story set into another part of the world.
What could be improved :
- Greater focus on the murder. The synopsis implies that a crime mystery so this should be the focus. There is nothing wrong with including travel and cultural elements into the story but it shouldn’t overwhelm the story.
- Making sure all plot points are developed and / or relevant. There needs to be a reason for a character doing something. Yes include a red herring or two but don’t just put things in for no reason.
Overall, it wasn’t a bad read just not what I was expecting.
I received a free copy from the author via Voracious Readers Only - this review is my own personal opinion
The positives :
- Aunt Jessica and Harry : these two work wonderfully together. Aunty Jessica has some cracking one lines and I would have loved to see more of their relationship built into the story
- Location : it’s not every day you read a book set in Morocco. It was a welcome change to be reading a story set into another part of the world.
What could be improved :
- Greater focus on the murder. The synopsis implies that a crime mystery so this should be the focus. There is nothing wrong with including travel and cultural elements into the story but it shouldn’t overwhelm the story.
- Making sure all plot points are developed and / or relevant. There needs to be a reason for a character doing something. Yes include a red herring or two but don’t just put things in for no reason.
Overall, it wasn’t a bad read just not what I was expecting.
I received a free copy from the author via Voracious Readers Only - this review is my own personal opinion
March 29, 2019
Judith Cranswick, author of the popular Fiona Mason mysteries, applies her successful formula to the first of a new series of amateur sleuth stories.
Her mysteries combine three basic ingredients: a travelogue a involving a disparate group of tourists on a bus tour of some foreign locale seeped in local history and tradition; the murder of one of the tourists with several of the group having possible motives; and a feisty senior-citizen female tour guide who uses her unique position to observe the group and unmask the murderer.
In Murder in Morocco, Judith introduces a new protagonist/sleuth in Aunt Jessica, a septuagenarian with a colorful and possibly disreputable past, who is still spry, clever, unconventional and a bit confrontational.
The story is told from the perspective of her sidekick, a naïf who is untutored in worldly matters, but eager to explore.
As usual, the book presents an interesting travelogue and realistic description of the architecture, cuisine, customs and history. The best part is the battle of wits between Jessica and the Sûreté Nationale police inspector, who proves to be much more clever and manipulative than he seems.
Her mysteries combine three basic ingredients: a travelogue a involving a disparate group of tourists on a bus tour of some foreign locale seeped in local history and tradition; the murder of one of the tourists with several of the group having possible motives; and a feisty senior-citizen female tour guide who uses her unique position to observe the group and unmask the murderer.
In Murder in Morocco, Judith introduces a new protagonist/sleuth in Aunt Jessica, a septuagenarian with a colorful and possibly disreputable past, who is still spry, clever, unconventional and a bit confrontational.
The story is told from the perspective of her sidekick, a naïf who is untutored in worldly matters, but eager to explore.
As usual, the book presents an interesting travelogue and realistic description of the architecture, cuisine, customs and history. The best part is the battle of wits between Jessica and the Sûreté Nationale police inspector, who proves to be much more clever and manipulative than he seems.
December 2, 2020
Written in the first person of Harry who goes to Morocco to help his aunt work, he is forced to play detective when multiple murders are following them around the country. Which means one thing... the murderer is also following them and their tour group. But who done it?
This book was a fantastic read. I really enjoyed how the whole book was not completely centres around the murders and they carried on with their tour around the country. Nevertheless, the author constantly made you aware that the murders had taken place and that they were always there in the back on your mind. She did this very well through the use of dialogue when Harry would talk to various people on his tour either trying to guess their motive or generally trying to get the know them more. There character development in this book is also brilliant. The author made a point of noticing when other people acted in a certain way to try and make you guess who the murderer was. I never guessed!!
This book was a fantastic read. I really enjoyed how the whole book was not completely centres around the murders and they carried on with their tour around the country. Nevertheless, the author constantly made you aware that the murders had taken place and that they were always there in the back on your mind. She did this very well through the use of dialogue when Harry would talk to various people on his tour either trying to guess their motive or generally trying to get the know them more. There character development in this book is also brilliant. The author made a point of noticing when other people acted in a certain way to try and make you guess who the murderer was. I never guessed!!
March 8, 2022
Armchair tour deluxe
The plot was good, the characters engaging and I found NOT A SINGLE TYPO! That alone made the book a delight to read. Jessica was a most enjoyable protagonist and and Harry is emerging nicely. But my favorite aspect of the book is the tour of Morocco provided.
I love to travel, but my days of backpacking with a Entail pass are far behind me. In recent decades I have traveled on small, upscale group tours like the one in this book, think Travcoa, TRS, Abercrombie and Kent. A few years back I went on such a tour in Morocco. The itinerary, lodging, dining, entertainment and even the group dynamics were almost the same. Ms. Cranswick did an admirable job of describing the sights, sounds and even smells that I remember and enjoyed, without an excess of detail. I feel that I should give her a tour guide tip. I enjoyed the story and the trip. I look forward eagerly to the next journey.
The plot was good, the characters engaging and I found NOT A SINGLE TYPO! That alone made the book a delight to read. Jessica was a most enjoyable protagonist and and Harry is emerging nicely. But my favorite aspect of the book is the tour of Morocco provided.
I love to travel, but my days of backpacking with a Entail pass are far behind me. In recent decades I have traveled on small, upscale group tours like the one in this book, think Travcoa, TRS, Abercrombie and Kent. A few years back I went on such a tour in Morocco. The itinerary, lodging, dining, entertainment and even the group dynamics were almost the same. Ms. Cranswick did an admirable job of describing the sights, sounds and even smells that I remember and enjoyed, without an excess of detail. I feel that I should give her a tour guide tip. I enjoyed the story and the trip. I look forward eagerly to the next journey.
December 27, 2020
So glad I discovered Judith Cranswick and her stories.
This one sees her nephew, Harry's first adventure as her assistant on a tour of Morocco.
Jessica, a retired historian, takes small groups of tourists around Morocco but before the tour has ended she has fewer tourists to take home than she brought out with her.
Who is bumping off members of the group and why? Jessica and Harry do their best to try and find out especially after Harry is convinced that the local police chief inspector has him down as chief suspect.
All this mystery mixed in with a travelogue of Morocco, souks, tents in the desert and camel rides to get to them. What more could you ask for in a murder mystery?
This is not a gruesome story but if a murder story could ever be called gentle then this is it.
I highly recommend this to all budding armchair Miss Marple's.
This one sees her nephew, Harry's first adventure as her assistant on a tour of Morocco.
Jessica, a retired historian, takes small groups of tourists around Morocco but before the tour has ended she has fewer tourists to take home than she brought out with her.
Who is bumping off members of the group and why? Jessica and Harry do their best to try and find out especially after Harry is convinced that the local police chief inspector has him down as chief suspect.
All this mystery mixed in with a travelogue of Morocco, souks, tents in the desert and camel rides to get to them. What more could you ask for in a murder mystery?
This is not a gruesome story but if a murder story could ever be called gentle then this is it.
I highly recommend this to all budding armchair Miss Marple's.
January 18, 2022
Solid 3.5, but falls closer to 4 than 3.
I quite liked this one! I would say it is quite slow to get going, which is the main reason for me knocking off a star, with the first murder happening >35% of the way through. The scene is set so richly in Morocco, and much of the attractions are described and discussed in detail. This was a good mystery (once it got started) but I wouldn't say it can be classified as a "thriller" at all - The pace was quite slow and meandering. What we don't get with plot, we do get with characters, though, as I managed to have strong feelings about quite a few of them!
This was a wonderful introduction to the author, and I look forward to reading more of her work.
I received a free copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
I quite liked this one! I would say it is quite slow to get going, which is the main reason for me knocking off a star, with the first murder happening >35% of the way through. The scene is set so richly in Morocco, and much of the attractions are described and discussed in detail. This was a good mystery (once it got started) but I wouldn't say it can be classified as a "thriller" at all - The pace was quite slow and meandering. What we don't get with plot, we do get with characters, though, as I managed to have strong feelings about quite a few of them!
This was a wonderful introduction to the author, and I look forward to reading more of her work.
I received a free copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
May 7, 2023
Murder in Morocco was an easy read and reminiscent of an old school murder mystery but the odd nod to the present with references to mobile phones etc seemed a little out of place. Some scene changes were also a little abrupt.
I enjoyed Aunt Jessica’s strong characterisation. Harry’s character traits were a little cliche though.
The details about what Morocco offers was amazing and I now want to go there however I think the level of this detail detracted from the mystery element of the story and the murders and other pertinent scenes appeared to play a more minor role in the story line. The story itself didn't really keep me overly engaged but to be honest crime novels are more my genre of choice.
I was provided with a free copy of this book through Voracious Readers Only.
I enjoyed Aunt Jessica’s strong characterisation. Harry’s character traits were a little cliche though.
The details about what Morocco offers was amazing and I now want to go there however I think the level of this detail detracted from the mystery element of the story and the murders and other pertinent scenes appeared to play a more minor role in the story line. The story itself didn't really keep me overly engaged but to be honest crime novels are more my genre of choice.
I was provided with a free copy of this book through Voracious Readers Only.
March 13, 2021
Murder in Morocco is an excellent book the store is very interesting I enjoyed the descriptions of each venue they visited you really got inside the place. The story is excellent the hint were a bit confusing but after a while you get it, and I guess that’s good you don’t get the killer at half the book.
The only negative for me was there was too much people in the story I would put less I understand it’s a group on a trip but well many brings nothing to the story. That’s the only thing I wasn’t keen on.
I love the aunt Jessica hope there’s more with her and her so shy nephew it was a wonderful duo and I want more of them maybe in the next more aunt Jessica she’s a clever one.
I recommend this book a cozy crime story
The only negative for me was there was too much people in the story I would put less I understand it’s a group on a trip but well many brings nothing to the story. That’s the only thing I wasn’t keen on.
I love the aunt Jessica hope there’s more with her and her so shy nephew it was a wonderful duo and I want more of them maybe in the next more aunt Jessica she’s a clever one.
I recommend this book a cozy crime story
May 14, 2021
When the often unemployed and even more often disappointment to his aunts over his life's choices. The one aunt that shows him compassion on a regular basis (The black sheep of the family), asks him to go on a trip to Morocco as her assistant. She is a fairly well known author and travel guide lecturer to several countries.
When one of the tour group members is killed and his wife is taken into custody, another member tells Harry she knows something but doesn't know who, or if she should say anything?
Harry agrees to meet her in a secluded place so they won't be overheard only to find her going for her last swim ever.
And of course, Harry is now the prime suspect.
A fun story that while slow-paced was well written and had well developed characters.
When one of the tour group members is killed and his wife is taken into custody, another member tells Harry she knows something but doesn't know who, or if she should say anything?
Harry agrees to meet her in a secluded place so they won't be overheard only to find her going for her last swim ever.
And of course, Harry is now the prime suspect.
A fun story that while slow-paced was well written and had well developed characters.
July 14, 2021
A fast paced mystery and a remarkable travel guide all rolled into one. The descriptions and history of Morrocco make you feel that you are there. You are trying the food and enjoying the beauty of the architecture all the while knowing that a mysterious stranger was following to you. Then the stranger is found dead and things get more and more interesting as you go along. Harry is a lovable character. Finally coming into his own by the end of the novel. His Aunt Jessica it truly delightful. Everything you want in a vagabond traveler. I was delighted by the book even though it took me awhile to get used to the distinctive British feel of it. I can't wait to read another of Judith's wonderful books.
August 26, 2021
Cosy murder mystery.
A good read. After losing his job, slightly socially awkward Harry agrees to accompany his elderly Aunt Jessica as her general dogsbody, on a tour in Morocco. Aunt Jessica has been employed by the company to enhance the holiday makers’ experience by giving talks about the architecture and culture that they come across.
There are lovely descriptions of places I have never been to and never will be able to go, quite atmospheric.
Needless to say, murder occurs and Harry and his aunt do their best to try and find the murderer alongside the local police force.
A nice easy read.
I received a complimentary ARC from the author via Voracious Readers Only
This is my honest review.
A good read. After losing his job, slightly socially awkward Harry agrees to accompany his elderly Aunt Jessica as her general dogsbody, on a tour in Morocco. Aunt Jessica has been employed by the company to enhance the holiday makers’ experience by giving talks about the architecture and culture that they come across.
There are lovely descriptions of places I have never been to and never will be able to go, quite atmospheric.
Needless to say, murder occurs and Harry and his aunt do their best to try and find the murderer alongside the local police force.
A nice easy read.
I received a complimentary ARC from the author via Voracious Readers Only
This is my honest review.
January 1, 2023
I received a free copy of this book from voracious readers only in exchange for a review.
This is a very easy to read book, easy to pick up at odd moments over a busy Christmas. I enjoyed the main characters, Harry and Jessica. The author gives enough information about them to make them interesting and appealing, but holds enough back so that we know there’s more to uncover in future books.
My criticism would be that this is much more about Morocco than the murders. There are beautiful descriptions of the destinations they visit and lots of information. It’s left me wanting a trip to Morocco! I enjoyed it but the novel often read more like travel writing than cosy crime. I think a reader who was more invested in the mystery plot would have been quite disappointed.
This is a very easy to read book, easy to pick up at odd moments over a busy Christmas. I enjoyed the main characters, Harry and Jessica. The author gives enough information about them to make them interesting and appealing, but holds enough back so that we know there’s more to uncover in future books.
My criticism would be that this is much more about Morocco than the murders. There are beautiful descriptions of the destinations they visit and lots of information. It’s left me wanting a trip to Morocco! I enjoyed it but the novel often read more like travel writing than cosy crime. I think a reader who was more invested in the mystery plot would have been quite disappointed.
September 19, 2017
As a fan of this writer, I am happy to welcome this new series introducing the reader to a couple of new characters. The usual twists and turns are present, together with thoroughly researched information on the Moroccan setting, demonstrating once more Judith Cranswick's painstaking attention to detail. The two main characters, elderly, worldly wise Aunt Jessica and her naive nephew, Harry, make an interesting couple of sleuths, offering an opportunity for a touch of humour to be written into the story.
Murder in Morocco is gripping, fun and a thoroughly enjoyable read. I have no hesitation in recommending it.
Murder in Morocco is gripping, fun and a thoroughly enjoyable read. I have no hesitation in recommending it.
September 25, 2017
I have always enjoyed the work of this author. Cranswick has the ability to tell a good story and keep the reader guessing until the very end.
This was a new concept, with a new sleuth on the case. Aunt Jessica is not Fiona, but her sidekick somehow gives the book a new twist from the usual Cranswick novels. The attention to detail, as always, is first class, and so are the red herrings. The relationship between Jessica and her nephew, Harry, is very much like a Christie novel.
On the whole, I found this to be a first-class read full of serious fun and skulduggery. Well worth a look, but don’t expect to guess the ending. Is Judith Cranswick turning into a modern-day Agatha Christie?
This was a new concept, with a new sleuth on the case. Aunt Jessica is not Fiona, but her sidekick somehow gives the book a new twist from the usual Cranswick novels. The attention to detail, as always, is first class, and so are the red herrings. The relationship between Jessica and her nephew, Harry, is very much like a Christie novel.
On the whole, I found this to be a first-class read full of serious fun and skulduggery. Well worth a look, but don’t expect to guess the ending. Is Judith Cranswick turning into a modern-day Agatha Christie?
November 17, 2020
So this isn't my typical read. While I did read a lot of mystery novels in my younger days, now I'm normally more into sci-fi/ fantasy books. I'll be honest the first half of the book was putting me to sleep and the grammatical errors were driving me Crazy. It needs editing. However, I was determined to read it as I'd agreed to write a review and I'm honestly glad I did. The book gets much better just past the halfway mark and I didn't want to put it down. If you're looking for a good murder mystery I definitely recommend this. I want you to think along the lines of a murderer mystery dinner only this surrounds a tourist group traveling across Morocco.
February 17, 2021
The book was very entertaining. The story follows a young gay man still trying to be comfortable in his own skin. He is struggling to be confident in himself and to be accepted by his family. He takes a job as his aunts assistant. She is a noted historian who gives lectures on group tours around the world. In this book they were in Morocco. The majority of the book detailed the scenery and history of the region they visited. As a historian and travel agent, I loved the detailed descriptions. The murder mystery portion of the story was interesting and well written. The main character grows in confidence by the end of the book and I really look forward to reading more stories with him in it.
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