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An Elizabeth Parker Mystery #1
Murder at Longbourn
A die-hard fan of Jane Austen novels and the traditional English mystery, Tracy Kiely has combined elements of both for this truly delightful and witty debut.
Planning New Year's resolutions to rid her life of all things unhealthy, Elizabeth Parker has dumped fatty foods, processed sugar, and her two-timing boyfriend. Indeed, the invitation to join her Aunt Winnie for a How to Host a Murder Party on New Year's Eve at Winnie's new Cape Cod B and B comes just in time. But when the local wealthy miser ends up the unscripted victim, Elizabeth must unearth old secrets and new motives in order to clear her beloved aunt of suspicion. The suspects include the town gossip, a haughty rich woman, and an antiques business owner much enamored of his benefactress, a Mrs. Kristell Dubois. If that isn't bad enough, Elizabeth must also contend with her childhood nemesis, Peter McGowan---a man she suspects has only matured in chronological years---and her suspicions about his family's interest in Winnie's inn.
Yesterday, her only worry was of ever finding her Mr. Darcy. Now she has a murder to solve. Is it any wonder her resolution to achieve inner poise is in tatters?
By reimagining characters and themes lifted from the treasured classic Pride and Prejudice, and crafting an expert, intricate mystery, Tracy Kiely has brought to life something very special: a new cozy series that is clever, vibrant, and utterly disarming.
Planning New Year's resolutions to rid her life of all things unhealthy, Elizabeth Parker has dumped fatty foods, processed sugar, and her two-timing boyfriend. Indeed, the invitation to join her Aunt Winnie for a How to Host a Murder Party on New Year's Eve at Winnie's new Cape Cod B and B comes just in time. But when the local wealthy miser ends up the unscripted victim, Elizabeth must unearth old secrets and new motives in order to clear her beloved aunt of suspicion. The suspects include the town gossip, a haughty rich woman, and an antiques business owner much enamored of his benefactress, a Mrs. Kristell Dubois. If that isn't bad enough, Elizabeth must also contend with her childhood nemesis, Peter McGowan---a man she suspects has only matured in chronological years---and her suspicions about his family's interest in Winnie's inn.
Yesterday, her only worry was of ever finding her Mr. Darcy. Now she has a murder to solve. Is it any wonder her resolution to achieve inner poise is in tatters?
By reimagining characters and themes lifted from the treasured classic Pride and Prejudice, and crafting an expert, intricate mystery, Tracy Kiely has brought to life something very special: a new cozy series that is clever, vibrant, and utterly disarming.
320 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 1, 2009
42 people are currently reading
1321 people want to read
About the author
Tracy Kiely
11 books156 followersTracy Kiely graduated from Trinity College in 1990 with a degree in English. Tracy's first novel, Murder at Longbourn, is a mystery set in Cape Cod, and combines her love of the classic English country house murder and Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice. She currently lives in Maryland with her husband, Matt, and their three children.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 250 reviews
October 13, 2009
Elizabeth Parker is not enthusiastically looking forward to bringing in the New Year. She was just dumped by her two-timing boyfriend, is on her way to Cape Cod to help her Aunt Winny host a Murder Mystery Dinner Party, and she has just discovered that she will be spending the weekend with her childhood nemesis, Peter McGowan. Elizabeth, recollecting how Peter McGowan tortured and tormented her when they were children, seriously doubts that he has lost his immature and mischievous ways in the last fifteen years. The only thing Elizabeth has to look forward to this weekend is spending time with her Aunt Winny at her charming new bed-and-breakfast, The Inn at Longbourn.
Winnifred Reynolds is eccentric, unconventional, and wealthy. She has an affinity for Jane Austen, drives like a maniac, and is a delightfully quirky character. The other guest attending this murder dinner party are just as colorful and uniquely defined. Henry and Joan Anderson are middle-aged antique business owners, who are grateful recipients of patronage from the esteemed Mrs. Kristell Dubois. Gerald Ramsey, a wealthy and unfriendly man, shows up with an unpleasant and acrimonious disposition. Daniel Simms, originally from England, is extremely attractive and aggressively pursues Elizabeth (to her delight), but is rumored to be having and affair with Lauren Ramsey, Gerald's younger wife. Polly, Gerald's daughter from a previous marriage, appears to be sullen and reserved, how does she live with such a controlling and disagreeable father? Wealthy and widowed Linnet Westin is new to the neighborhood and has invited her high school friend Jackie Tanner to come live with her as a companion. Jackie Tanner is well-known for her gaudy and over-sized hats and her penchant for sharing the latest gossip.
Soon the acting troupe arrives for the Murder Mystery and everything seems to be underway for a pleasant evening full of suspense and intrigue until the lights go out and the wrong person is found lying dead... Instead of finding one of the actors “dead” after the lights are turned back on, they find one of the dinner guests' lifeless form on the carpet. When the police determine that the murderer is a guest at the dinner party everyone becomes a suspect. The tension escalates when the police ascertain that Aunt Winnie has the strongest motive for murder and peg her as their prime suspect. Elizabeth, determined to clear her aunt's name, takes it upon herself to find the true culprit. Alas, Elizabeth is no Nancy Drew and clumsily and comically bungles up the investigation for the police department and she begrudgingly accepts assistance from Peter.
What a charming and remarkable debut novel by Tracy Kiely! While I am not well-versed in mystery novels, having only read the Nancy Drew series and novels by Stephanie Barron and Carrie Bebris, I found this novel to be a praiseworthy addition to the mystery genre. The events of the novel were not cliché or predictable, and the outcome was unforeseen and clever. I adored Elizabeth Parker, and I love how she and Aunt Winnie are such Austen fanatics they interject quotes from “Pride and Prejudice” into their conversations and witty banters. Furthermore, I enjoyed the character parallels between Elizabeth Bennet/Elizabeth Parker and Mr. Darcy/Peter McGowan. The subtle nuances and nods to “Pride and Prejudice” were inventive and a pleasure to discover. My only request to Ms. Kiely is to give the brooding and complex Peter McGowan more page time!
Ms. Kiely is a skillful story-teller and this suspenseful tale of murder is sure to captivate and beguile Jane Austen and Agatha Christie fans alike. I eagerly anticipate spending more time with the lovable and quirky characters of Longbourn Inn as they embark upon their next mystery the “Murder on the Bride's Side.”
Winnifred Reynolds is eccentric, unconventional, and wealthy. She has an affinity for Jane Austen, drives like a maniac, and is a delightfully quirky character. The other guest attending this murder dinner party are just as colorful and uniquely defined. Henry and Joan Anderson are middle-aged antique business owners, who are grateful recipients of patronage from the esteemed Mrs. Kristell Dubois. Gerald Ramsey, a wealthy and unfriendly man, shows up with an unpleasant and acrimonious disposition. Daniel Simms, originally from England, is extremely attractive and aggressively pursues Elizabeth (to her delight), but is rumored to be having and affair with Lauren Ramsey, Gerald's younger wife. Polly, Gerald's daughter from a previous marriage, appears to be sullen and reserved, how does she live with such a controlling and disagreeable father? Wealthy and widowed Linnet Westin is new to the neighborhood and has invited her high school friend Jackie Tanner to come live with her as a companion. Jackie Tanner is well-known for her gaudy and over-sized hats and her penchant for sharing the latest gossip.
Soon the acting troupe arrives for the Murder Mystery and everything seems to be underway for a pleasant evening full of suspense and intrigue until the lights go out and the wrong person is found lying dead... Instead of finding one of the actors “dead” after the lights are turned back on, they find one of the dinner guests' lifeless form on the carpet. When the police determine that the murderer is a guest at the dinner party everyone becomes a suspect. The tension escalates when the police ascertain that Aunt Winnie has the strongest motive for murder and peg her as their prime suspect. Elizabeth, determined to clear her aunt's name, takes it upon herself to find the true culprit. Alas, Elizabeth is no Nancy Drew and clumsily and comically bungles up the investigation for the police department and she begrudgingly accepts assistance from Peter.
What a charming and remarkable debut novel by Tracy Kiely! While I am not well-versed in mystery novels, having only read the Nancy Drew series and novels by Stephanie Barron and Carrie Bebris, I found this novel to be a praiseworthy addition to the mystery genre. The events of the novel were not cliché or predictable, and the outcome was unforeseen and clever. I adored Elizabeth Parker, and I love how she and Aunt Winnie are such Austen fanatics they interject quotes from “Pride and Prejudice” into their conversations and witty banters. Furthermore, I enjoyed the character parallels between Elizabeth Bennet/Elizabeth Parker and Mr. Darcy/Peter McGowan. The subtle nuances and nods to “Pride and Prejudice” were inventive and a pleasure to discover. My only request to Ms. Kiely is to give the brooding and complex Peter McGowan more page time!
Ms. Kiely is a skillful story-teller and this suspenseful tale of murder is sure to captivate and beguile Jane Austen and Agatha Christie fans alike. I eagerly anticipate spending more time with the lovable and quirky characters of Longbourn Inn as they embark upon their next mystery the “Murder on the Bride's Side.”
December 4, 2013
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Poor Elizabeth Parker – being alone on New Year’s Eve sucks. So much so, she has taken her great Aunt Winnie’s offer to come to her B&B -- the Inn at Longbourn -- on the Cape. There she will help her aunt stage a “Dinner/Murder Mystery” for her guests. But before the evening is over, something has gone horribly wrong, after the lights go up, someone has really been murdered! And it’s none other than the village’s most hated resident – Gerald Ramsey. All of the guests are suspects, and Elizabeth must play detective before the police accuse her Aunt of the crime.
Tracy Kiely’s first novel, “Murder at Longbourn” is billed for “the die-hard fan of Jane Austen novels…” Other than the main character’s name, she being in search of her own “Mr. Darcy”, the Inn being named after the Bennett’s residence in Pride and Prejudice, and a poorly written pas de deux between Elizabeth and despised friend, Peter McGowan – I found absolutely NO similarities between this novel and ANYTHING Ms. Austen has ever written.
The mystery was also weakly drawn. After the crime has occurred, the police question the guests, find the murder weapon in the cat bed, and go on their merry way, admonishing the guests, “not to go anywhere.” Maybe I’ve watched too many CSI episodes, but can’t officers test for gun powder residue immediately?? I would think, in my TV trained mind, that a murder suspect could have been instantly apprehended the night of the event. But, alas, we are drawn into a nonsensical tale of real estate obsession, family discord, and a case of mistaken identity, that is really laughable. Oh, and the clichés in the book are mind numbing. The best in the whole book was at the end, when the police arrive at another potential crime scene and they shout, “Police! Nobody move!” Now, that was original.
I think I would have been more forgiving of this book, if at the very least, the romance was believable. I’m a sucker for romantic tension and lovers realizing they are meant for each other after all. But, nothing in this romance was, well, romantic.
With this book, I’ve finally given up on reading Austen-knockoff lit. I haven’t found anything that is worth my while. If you have any recommendations, please advise.
Poor Elizabeth Parker – being alone on New Year’s Eve sucks. So much so, she has taken her great Aunt Winnie’s offer to come to her B&B -- the Inn at Longbourn -- on the Cape. There she will help her aunt stage a “Dinner/Murder Mystery” for her guests. But before the evening is over, something has gone horribly wrong, after the lights go up, someone has really been murdered! And it’s none other than the village’s most hated resident – Gerald Ramsey. All of the guests are suspects, and Elizabeth must play detective before the police accuse her Aunt of the crime.
Tracy Kiely’s first novel, “Murder at Longbourn” is billed for “the die-hard fan of Jane Austen novels…” Other than the main character’s name, she being in search of her own “Mr. Darcy”, the Inn being named after the Bennett’s residence in Pride and Prejudice, and a poorly written pas de deux between Elizabeth and despised friend, Peter McGowan – I found absolutely NO similarities between this novel and ANYTHING Ms. Austen has ever written.
The mystery was also weakly drawn. After the crime has occurred, the police question the guests, find the murder weapon in the cat bed, and go on their merry way, admonishing the guests, “not to go anywhere.” Maybe I’ve watched too many CSI episodes, but can’t officers test for gun powder residue immediately?? I would think, in my TV trained mind, that a murder suspect could have been instantly apprehended the night of the event. But, alas, we are drawn into a nonsensical tale of real estate obsession, family discord, and a case of mistaken identity, that is really laughable. Oh, and the clichés in the book are mind numbing. The best in the whole book was at the end, when the police arrive at another potential crime scene and they shout, “Police! Nobody move!” Now, that was original.
I think I would have been more forgiving of this book, if at the very least, the romance was believable. I’m a sucker for romantic tension and lovers realizing they are meant for each other after all. But, nothing in this romance was, well, romantic.
With this book, I’ve finally given up on reading Austen-knockoff lit. I haven’t found anything that is worth my while. If you have any recommendations, please advise.
January 26, 2010
Let me say that I love mysteries and I love Austen, so I was hoping this might be a great fit. Sadly, I couldn't get past 25 pages of this book. It comes off like the silliest of chick lit books with odds and ends of Austen's P&P ripped from the original and fitted in wherever possible.
June 12, 2025
Fun modern cosy mystery with lots of nods to Pride and Prejudice. Gotta love that all clues are given to the reader...but I still challenge anyone to guess the killer's identity. (It sure fooled me!)
Content is clean.
Content is clean.
January 10, 2010
I really need to stop picking books just because there is some connection to Jane Austen. This was less than mediocre and had almost no relation to JA
July 6, 2012
Murder at Longbourn est sans conteste la meilleure oeuvre "dérivée" de Jane Austen que j'ai lue jusqu'ici. Ce roman dépasse, et de très loin, tout ce que j'ai pu lire dans le même genre. En plus d'être, comme son titre l'indique, un roman à suspens très réussi (l'intrigue policière est efficace et fort bien menée), Murder at Longbourn est délicieux sous bien des aspects. L'humour est irrésistible. Les références à Jane Austen sont nombreuses mais subtiles. La satire sociale, la romance et les personnages font échos à ceux d'Orgueil & Préjugés et les citations extraites du roman sont intelligemment distillées. L'héroïne est attachante, drôle, loin d'être stupide (ça change !) et les personnages secondaires savamment brossés. L'atmosphère très cosy mystery est remarquablement bien mise en scène. Tracy Kiely a de l'humour à revendre, un vrai soucis du détail dans ses descriptions et dans la construction de son récit et surtout, beaucoup de culture ! Ses références vont d'Elizabeth Peters et son Amelia Peabody, à Agatha Christie en passant par Evelyn Waugh, Daphné Du Maurier, Le Faucon de Malte etc.
Un roman délicieux, haletant et piquant ! Je pense me jeter sur la suite très très prochainement !
Un roman délicieux, haletant et piquant ! Je pense me jeter sur la suite très très prochainement !
July 28, 2024
I really wanted to love this book--I love Jane Austen and Agatha Christie, and the author was inspired by both, so I've had my eye on it since it came out. Plus it has a cute cover.
But... hmm. On the plus side: Her one English character sounded English; the references to Pride and Prejudice are clever and fun, but don't overwhelm the book; her use of quotes at the start of each chapter is very effective--better done than most authors.
On the not-so-plus: I didn't really like the protagonist. Maybe because she disliked both cats and dogs. How can you warm to such a person? So I had trouble getting into the book. The mystery plot was alright. I don't think she established enough motives for enough characters early on, and by the time she really got her red herring going, I had already guessed the murderer.
It has good ratings on amazon, so I think I'm in the minority opinion here.
But... hmm. On the plus side: Her one English character sounded English; the references to Pride and Prejudice are clever and fun, but don't overwhelm the book; her use of quotes at the start of each chapter is very effective--better done than most authors.
On the not-so-plus: I didn't really like the protagonist. Maybe because she disliked both cats and dogs. How can you warm to such a person? So I had trouble getting into the book. The mystery plot was alright. I don't think she established enough motives for enough characters early on, and by the time she really got her red herring going, I had already guessed the murderer.
It has good ratings on amazon, so I think I'm in the minority opinion here.
December 4, 2013
As both a life-long Austen fan and a mystery fan, I picked this up expecting to enjoy it. It is, at best, pleasant, but nothing sticks. Neither the characters nor the plot are particularly compelling. As far as the Pride and Prejudice tie-in, please. Other than a lot of P&P quotes and a few place/character names, I don't see many Austen parallels. The title seems more like a marketing ploy than anything else. Austen fans: unless you're a die-hard cozy mystery fan looking for a quick bedtime read, you can skip this one.
February 15, 2016
A cozy mystery with characters who love the works of Jane Austen. Likable characters, an interesting theme and a complex murder plot make a nice start for this series. Elizabeth is staying at her Aunt Winnie's newly opened B&B to help with a murder-mystery party. When the play becomes a real murder, things get interesting. Greed, corruption, envy, jealousy and revenge make up this well drawn murder plot. I am looking forward to reading the rest of this series. An entertaining adventure that will keep you guessing until the final reveal.
March 3, 2016
I liked it and cant wait to get the next book in the series. I wish the author would continue it. The only thing that prevented me from giving it five stars are the spelling and grammar errors.
April 19, 2019
Light murder mystery with many an Austen quote.
April 26, 2025
This is a murder mystery with surprising twists, with plenty of references to the language and characters of Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice.
August 23, 2011
I picked this up because my friend Chelsea talked about it and I, too, cannot resist trying a book with a Jane Austen hook (except the zombies one). I thought this was rather cute and clever, although I can see why Chelsea said she was disappointed--I think I was rather glad actually, that this did not take place at the Austen-created Longbourn.
Given the setting, it made a lot more sense to channel Agatha Christie heavily along with the obvious Jane Austen references, even including the ones to Bridget Jones' Diary and author Elizabeth Peters' series featuring Amelia Peabody. I've seen a review that mentions a Miss Marple story, but none that reference the Poirot novels that tell you who exactly the murderer is. If you know your Agatha Christie, you will know what I mean.
In case you are interested and don't mind spoilers, here are the books and scenes for which I found references and ultimately the solution. I'm sure there are more, so maybe you could add to this list!
Anyway, I would recommend this book to mystery lovers, and if the readers know Jane Austen and Agatha Christie, they'll like it even more.
**SPOILER ALERT**
Pride and Prejudice: Henry & Joan Anderson = Mr. Collins & Charlotte;
Mrs. Kristell Dubois & the cat = Lady Catherine;
Elizabeth and Peter's relationship.
Mansfield Park: having semi-private theatricals.
Northanger Abbey: Elizabeth's finding acorns instead of clues.
Emma: Daniel Simms = Frank Churchill.
OR
Bridget Jones' Diary: Daniel Simms = Daniel Cleaver;
Elizabeth's roommate Bridget and boyfriend Colin (as in Colin Firth); also Elizabeth's ex-boyfriend Mark (as in Mark Darcy).
A Murder Is Announced: people gather expecting a "murder";
lights go out and someone gets shot;
a close relative masquerades as another.
The A.B.C. Murders: hiding the "main" murder with another.
Death on the Nile: Linnet steals Jackie's boyfriend;
Jackie murders Linnet (same names in both books).
Elizabeth Peters books: the names "Elizabeth" and "Peter" Cute!
Elizabeth & Peter's relationship could also be a Beatrice & Benedick relationship: they have known one another a long time; they squabble whenever they meet; they secretly like each other; they need an outside agent (or two) to get them to admit their feelings for one another. But in this book, the development of Elizabeth's love for Peter is sparse. It could use a little beefing up to make it more realistic.
Given the setting, it made a lot more sense to channel Agatha Christie heavily along with the obvious Jane Austen references, even including the ones to Bridget Jones' Diary and author Elizabeth Peters' series featuring Amelia Peabody. I've seen a review that mentions a Miss Marple story, but none that reference the Poirot novels that tell you who exactly the murderer is. If you know your Agatha Christie, you will know what I mean.
In case you are interested and don't mind spoilers, here are the books and scenes for which I found references and ultimately the solution. I'm sure there are more, so maybe you could add to this list!
Anyway, I would recommend this book to mystery lovers, and if the readers know Jane Austen and Agatha Christie, they'll like it even more.
**SPOILER ALERT**
Pride and Prejudice: Henry & Joan Anderson = Mr. Collins & Charlotte;
Mrs. Kristell Dubois & the cat = Lady Catherine;
Elizabeth and Peter's relationship.
Mansfield Park: having semi-private theatricals.
Northanger Abbey: Elizabeth's finding acorns instead of clues.
Emma: Daniel Simms = Frank Churchill.
OR
Bridget Jones' Diary: Daniel Simms = Daniel Cleaver;
Elizabeth's roommate Bridget and boyfriend Colin (as in Colin Firth); also Elizabeth's ex-boyfriend Mark (as in Mark Darcy).
A Murder Is Announced: people gather expecting a "murder";
lights go out and someone gets shot;
a close relative masquerades as another.
The A.B.C. Murders: hiding the "main" murder with another.
Death on the Nile: Linnet steals Jackie's boyfriend;
Jackie murders Linnet (same names in both books).
Elizabeth Peters books: the names "Elizabeth" and "Peter" Cute!
Elizabeth & Peter's relationship could also be a Beatrice & Benedick relationship: they have known one another a long time; they squabble whenever they meet; they secretly like each other; they need an outside agent (or two) to get them to admit their feelings for one another. But in this book, the development of Elizabeth's love for Peter is sparse. It could use a little beefing up to make it more realistic.
January 11, 2010
Murder at Longbourn, by Tracy Kiely, turned out to be everything I had hoped it would be--a cozy mystery with strong tie-ins to P&P but without being an overly serious, self-conscious, joyless retelling of the story. The novel is jam-packed with Austen quotes and references to the various movies and adaptations that constitute Austen Inc.--I particularly enjoyed the Bridget Jones bit--but branches out a bit to include Shakespeare, Dorothy Parker, Oscar Wilde and other literary wits. I smiled and laughed through the whole book. Definitely a tonic for this miserable weather.
The heroine, Elizabeth Parker, is self-deprecating, laugh-out-loud funny, prejudiced in all the right ways (i.e., her heart is in the right place and her loyalties motivate her), and is a charming combination of Elizabeth-pluckiness and Bridget-haplessness. My favorite line is when she is griping about another character's more ample figure and she says, "My mother kindly describes my build as lithe, but the sad reality is that if I wore my bra backward, I'd probably get more cleaveage from my shoulder blades." She thinks in bons mots and verbally spars with the best of them.
I enjoyed recognizing various P&P characters, some more slyly disguised than others. Mr. Collins is a pompous, toady bore regardless of name and century, Mrs. Bennet's matchmaking single-mindedness shines through like a beacon in the fog, and Lady Catherine is never to be trusted. Apart from the requisite Austen parallels, Kiely has several other fun characters that I couldn't peg to an Austen novel but were Austenesque in their quirky believability--the double-talking sisters who own The Flowered Teapot bakery/tearoom spring to mind.
Finally, I love the premise of a murder mystery set around a Murder Dinner Party. Perfect!
And finally, clocking in at 308 pages, Murder at Longbourn was a quick, satisfying read that got me through one of the coldest weeks we've had in a while.
The heroine, Elizabeth Parker, is self-deprecating, laugh-out-loud funny, prejudiced in all the right ways (i.e., her heart is in the right place and her loyalties motivate her), and is a charming combination of Elizabeth-pluckiness and Bridget-haplessness. My favorite line is when she is griping about another character's more ample figure and she says, "My mother kindly describes my build as lithe, but the sad reality is that if I wore my bra backward, I'd probably get more cleaveage from my shoulder blades." She thinks in bons mots and verbally spars with the best of them.
I enjoyed recognizing various P&P characters, some more slyly disguised than others. Mr. Collins is a pompous, toady bore regardless of name and century, Mrs. Bennet's matchmaking single-mindedness shines through like a beacon in the fog, and Lady Catherine is never to be trusted. Apart from the requisite Austen parallels, Kiely has several other fun characters that I couldn't peg to an Austen novel but were Austenesque in their quirky believability--the double-talking sisters who own The Flowered Teapot bakery/tearoom spring to mind.
Finally, I love the premise of a murder mystery set around a Murder Dinner Party. Perfect!
And finally, clocking in at 308 pages, Murder at Longbourn was a quick, satisfying read that got me through one of the coldest weeks we've had in a while.
August 18, 2015
This unfortunately just wasn't a very good book. The idea of a mystery using elements from Jane Austen's works was a good one, but the execution was bad. The book seems rather too self-conscious about it all. The characters that are references to Austen's characters are really obvious, such as the obnoxious man who constantly makes references to his wonderful patroness. Worse, the romance is modeled off of that of Darcy and Elizabeth, except the author completely screws it up. Elizabeth (yes, that's the heroines name. *sigh*) and Peter sound like two bickering children. Peter calls Elizabeth "Cocoa Puff" all the time for some reason, and Elizabeth is equally silly towards him. What makes it worse is that towards the end of the novel, Elizabeth realizes that she's loved Peter all along - except that this makes absolutely no sense at all. The witty repartee that evolves into true esteem present in Elizabeth's romance with Darcy is completely lacking here.
The mystery elements actually work fairly well, but they're overshadowed in my mind by the terrible attempt at invoking Austen. The mystery's plot isn't too bad, and the solution is a bit strange but not totally ridiculous. I would have appreciated a better chance to pick up on the clues, though. However, there is absolutely nothing about this mystery that demands it be Austen-themed. The murderer isn't even an Austen pastiche character. All in all, this could have been passable or even rather fun if it hadn't been dragged down at a terrible attempt to appeal to the Austen spin-off market. Another reviewer says this series gets better, but with this as its start, I can't say I have much interest in seeing if that holds true.
The mystery elements actually work fairly well, but they're overshadowed in my mind by the terrible attempt at invoking Austen. The mystery's plot isn't too bad, and the solution is a bit strange but not totally ridiculous. I would have appreciated a better chance to pick up on the clues, though. However, there is absolutely nothing about this mystery that demands it be Austen-themed. The murderer isn't even an Austen pastiche character. All in all, this could have been passable or even rather fun if it hadn't been dragged down at a terrible attempt to appeal to the Austen spin-off market. Another reviewer says this series gets better, but with this as its start, I can't say I have much interest in seeing if that holds true.
October 6, 2009
Elizabeth Parker receives a New Year’s Eve party invite from her Aunt Winnie. Her Aunt is hosting a murder themed party. The night promises to be filled with lots of fun, mayhem and a few surprises. The guests have all arrived and the games are ready to begin. They turn out the lights to start when a gun shot is heard. The lights come back on and there lies a body. Unfortunately, someone has decided to raise the stakes and play for real.
Murder at Longbourn is author, Tracy Kiely’s debut novel. The story at times was both quirky and good. Elizabeth was a sweetheart. The characters and the plot reminded me of the board game “Clue”. Where everyone is a suspect and the bodies just keep piling up. As much as I like that the story kept moving, there was almost too much going on that I got lost a few times. This is because everyone was trying to solve the murder and the plot had me going in one direction and than another. Though I do have to say that the twists came at the right moments. I can’t wait to see what this author comes up with next.
Murder at Longbourn is author, Tracy Kiely’s debut novel. The story at times was both quirky and good. Elizabeth was a sweetheart. The characters and the plot reminded me of the board game “Clue”. Where everyone is a suspect and the bodies just keep piling up. As much as I like that the story kept moving, there was almost too much going on that I got lost a few times. This is because everyone was trying to solve the murder and the plot had me going in one direction and than another. Though I do have to say that the twists came at the right moments. I can’t wait to see what this author comes up with next.
November 3, 2009
i'd go 4 1/2 stars on this one. let's face it - it's set in my fantasyland - martha's vineyard in late december with tons of snow and roaring fireplaces and a rambling b&b with a reading room and cranberry muffins - AND - a murder mystery dinner show! it'd have to suck for me not to love it. i really liked tha characters and the writing was good. i look forward to the next in the series and would like to volunteer to check out any b&b's in new england to see if they might be appropriate settings for future novels. research, research, research :-)
July 25, 2018
Elizabeth goes to help her great-aunt with a New Year's Eve mystery dinner at her new Cape Cod bed and breakfast, only to meet again Peter, the bete noire of her youth. When one of the guests is killed at the murder dinner, Aunt Winnie becomes the leading suspect, and both Elizabeth and Peter are determined to clear her. Elizabeth, who is a big Jane Austen fan, puts together the pieces first in this charming debut novel.
January 1, 2017
3.5 stars - An Agatha Christie style murder mystery with an Austen obsessed heroine is right up my alley. The romance wasn't particularly successful, and Elizabeth is as reckless as the typical cozy heroine, so I can't give 5 stars. But, this was a fun New Year's read, and I will definitely read more! I tried *really* hard to finish before midnight, but I ran out of time.
September 4, 2013
This was a so so book based around a murder mystery dinner featuring Jane Austin fans. I just couldn't get into this one.
April 8, 2021
I had a couple of issues with this book. First, there were some weird editing issues. Like she said “the sound of his name.” What sound, exactly, do names make? Obviously the author meant the “mention” of his name. How was that not caught by editing?!
Also, it’s so trite that expressive characters (her roommate, Aunt Winnie) have to dress in horrific outfits with crazy colors. Cant they be expressive without wearing a lime green tank and purple cowboy boots?! That’s just really annoying to me. I have never in my life met someone who would dress like that and this book has two of those people.
I also had issues with some of the characters’ development. Jackie obviously planned the murder of the old guy. And she obviously planned to murder Linnet and take her identity. But she wasn’t a sociopathic serial killer. She obviously had to reason out her motives. So then how was she so calm and calculating when trying to kill Elizabeth and then Peter? Realistically she should have been flustered, mad, and desperate. Not cool and calm like she’s used to killing people who sneak around her house. It just didn’t ring true. And a nervous Jackie would have been more thrilling than the bland stuff we got.
The love story between Peter and Elizabeth was just not believable. I enjoy a good enemies to lovers storyline and was actually enjoying their back and forth. But then we got nothing. No stuck in the closet together, no accidental embarrassment, no forcing of a romantic situation that had high sexual tension. Nothing. We barely even got jealousy from Peter over Daniel. His jealousy was more of a brotherly annoyance and inconvenience. We got a sloppy dance and then suddenly they’re friends. What a let down! And I’m sorry, but “I didn’t realize I loved you until you were hurt” didn’t work in this scenario because they whole book she wants to kill him (metaphorically). There was an entire lack of attraction and passion in the love story.
Honestly, I was hoping Elizabeth and the police guy would get a moment because they had more chemistry than her and Peter by halfway through the book.
I’m not entirely sure I’ll read the second book.
Also, it’s so trite that expressive characters (her roommate, Aunt Winnie) have to dress in horrific outfits with crazy colors. Cant they be expressive without wearing a lime green tank and purple cowboy boots?! That’s just really annoying to me. I have never in my life met someone who would dress like that and this book has two of those people.
I also had issues with some of the characters’ development. Jackie obviously planned the murder of the old guy. And she obviously planned to murder Linnet and take her identity. But she wasn’t a sociopathic serial killer. She obviously had to reason out her motives. So then how was she so calm and calculating when trying to kill Elizabeth and then Peter? Realistically she should have been flustered, mad, and desperate. Not cool and calm like she’s used to killing people who sneak around her house. It just didn’t ring true. And a nervous Jackie would have been more thrilling than the bland stuff we got.
The love story between Peter and Elizabeth was just not believable. I enjoy a good enemies to lovers storyline and was actually enjoying their back and forth. But then we got nothing. No stuck in the closet together, no accidental embarrassment, no forcing of a romantic situation that had high sexual tension. Nothing. We barely even got jealousy from Peter over Daniel. His jealousy was more of a brotherly annoyance and inconvenience. We got a sloppy dance and then suddenly they’re friends. What a let down! And I’m sorry, but “I didn’t realize I loved you until you were hurt” didn’t work in this scenario because they whole book she wants to kill him (metaphorically). There was an entire lack of attraction and passion in the love story.
Honestly, I was hoping Elizabeth and the police guy would get a moment because they had more chemistry than her and Peter by halfway through the book.
I’m not entirely sure I’ll read the second book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 19, 2017
Oh my goodness - this book was SO MUCH FUN!!!
It combines a bunch of things I like, and delivers them in such a clever and entertaining way.
So, first it's a cozy mystery, although delivered a little unusually for the typical cozy format. We have the small town filled with kooky characters, and a death that could have been caused by any one of them.
I loved all the characters in this story! Elizabeth especially was just a hoot! Her reactions to things, her sarcastic comments and thoughts - I totally related to every one of them and I loved the attitude and snap with which she deals with the chaos swirling around her.
The Pride and Prejudice connection, and the many references, homages and even a couple of characters who are modeled after P&P characters was super-fun for a rabid P&P fan, which I am. But there are also plenty of other famous mystery-related references sprinkled throughout the book that add to the fun and cleverness. Really, any character that loves Pride & Prejudice AND Amelia Peabody is super in my book!
The pace of this was terrific, and it was a fast, easy read that I did not want to stop once I had started it. It was a rollicking, snappy entertaining story that I loved every moment of.
The one teeny-tiny think I wasn't totally into was the explanation of the murder, who did it, and especially how they did it. It felt a bit hard to swallow to me, although I give the author points for offering a decent explanation for why the how could actually have happened and been plausible.
Overall, I loved everything about this book, and I am hoping for more books in this series, because I would absolutely read more in this world. Recommended for cozy fans and especially Pride & Prejudice fans [although honestly, you could read and enjoy this book even if you've never read P&P, you'll just miss a few of the subtle references to famous lines, characters or aspects of the story].
It combines a bunch of things I like, and delivers them in such a clever and entertaining way.
So, first it's a cozy mystery, although delivered a little unusually for the typical cozy format. We have the small town filled with kooky characters, and a death that could have been caused by any one of them.
I loved all the characters in this story! Elizabeth especially was just a hoot! Her reactions to things, her sarcastic comments and thoughts - I totally related to every one of them and I loved the attitude and snap with which she deals with the chaos swirling around her.
The Pride and Prejudice connection, and the many references, homages and even a couple of characters who are modeled after P&P characters was super-fun for a rabid P&P fan, which I am. But there are also plenty of other famous mystery-related references sprinkled throughout the book that add to the fun and cleverness. Really, any character that loves Pride & Prejudice AND Amelia Peabody is super in my book!
The pace of this was terrific, and it was a fast, easy read that I did not want to stop once I had started it. It was a rollicking, snappy entertaining story that I loved every moment of.
The one teeny-tiny think I wasn't totally into was the explanation of the murder, who did it, and especially how they did it. It felt a bit hard to swallow to me, although I give the author points for offering a decent explanation for why the how could actually have happened and been plausible.
Overall, I loved everything about this book, and I am hoping for more books in this series, because I would absolutely read more in this world. Recommended for cozy fans and especially Pride & Prejudice fans [although honestly, you could read and enjoy this book even if you've never read P&P, you'll just miss a few of the subtle references to famous lines, characters or aspects of the story].
April 13, 2023
Overall, this was a great read. I can divide my review into 3 parts:
Overall feel of the book:
5 stars. First person POV usually annoys me. I find it detracts from the story. This worked wonderfully. It helped distract the reader so that some clues didn’t stand out right away. We are as aware of the world as E is, so we may fail to notice things.
As a murder mystery:
5 stars. Though I had guessed part of the plot, I knew those were the clues made to throw me off, so I thought it was well done. I totally mistook a turn in the book as bad plot development, when it was the vital clue to unravel the mystery. This kept me from guessing who did it.
As a P&P inspired work
4 stars. Besides Elizabeth, some of our favorite characters inspire others in the book. You are thrown off a bit because the author chooses to change some names. This adds to the fun and makes you wonder if other characters are not who we think. Our Mr Darcy and Wickham are easily identifiable. My issue is that the romance between Elizabeth and her Mr Darcy was sort of strung together at the end. I needed her to realize her feelings sooner or have more of an ending to see her come around. I did not like how they ended up. Also, this Elizabeth was lacking Witt and grace. She was not quite the right rendition, though she fit perfectly in this story. If we had a little more romance, I think this would have been perfect.
Overall, great book. Highly recommend it. Will definitely continue the series.
Overall feel of the book:
5 stars. First person POV usually annoys me. I find it detracts from the story. This worked wonderfully. It helped distract the reader so that some clues didn’t stand out right away. We are as aware of the world as E is, so we may fail to notice things.
As a murder mystery:
5 stars. Though I had guessed part of the plot, I knew those were the clues made to throw me off, so I thought it was well done. I totally mistook a turn in the book as bad plot development, when it was the vital clue to unravel the mystery. This kept me from guessing who did it.
As a P&P inspired work
4 stars. Besides Elizabeth, some of our favorite characters inspire others in the book. You are thrown off a bit because the author chooses to change some names. This adds to the fun and makes you wonder if other characters are not who we think. Our Mr Darcy and Wickham are easily identifiable. My issue is that the romance between Elizabeth and her Mr Darcy was sort of strung together at the end. I needed her to realize her feelings sooner or have more of an ending to see her come around. I did not like how they ended up. Also, this Elizabeth was lacking Witt and grace. She was not quite the right rendition, though she fit perfectly in this story. If we had a little more romance, I think this would have been perfect.
Overall, great book. Highly recommend it. Will definitely continue the series.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 15, 2020
"Gray skies, a winter chill and thoughts of murder put a lively spin on Elizabeth Parker's New Year's Eve at her aunt Winnie's Cape Cod B and B. But as guests arrive for the murder-mystery dinner party, so does tension. Everybody -- from the wealthy businessman, to the charming Brit, to the town gossip and her haughty cousin -- has something to hide. Fanning the fires, Elizabeth's childhood nemesis, Peter McGowan, is there to resume their endless sparring.
"Still, the actors put on a stunning show of passion, jealousy and marital mayhem. But when the lights go out, a scream pierces the air, and the corpse on the floor isn't a fake. Gerald Ramsey, rich and ruthless, is now dead and a killer lurks among them. Can Elizabeth sort through the red herrings and odd clues to find the motive -- before murder takes center stage once more?"
~~back cover
A pretty typical mystery: murder, then the intrepid heroine goes searching for clues, ultimately stumbling on the identity of the murder, thus putting herself in harms way and having to be rescued by the intrepid hero. But a fun read, for all its unoriginality.
"Still, the actors put on a stunning show of passion, jealousy and marital mayhem. But when the lights go out, a scream pierces the air, and the corpse on the floor isn't a fake. Gerald Ramsey, rich and ruthless, is now dead and a killer lurks among them. Can Elizabeth sort through the red herrings and odd clues to find the motive -- before murder takes center stage once more?"
~~back cover
A pretty typical mystery: murder, then the intrepid heroine goes searching for clues, ultimately stumbling on the identity of the murder, thus putting herself in harms way and having to be rescued by the intrepid hero. But a fun read, for all its unoriginality.
May 20, 2017
Five huge stars! How have I managed to miss this series? (and yay! It is, indeed a series!) No matter, I have found Tracy Kiely just in time for summer. The first novel - Murder at Longbourn - is everything I look for in a beach novel - light and entertaining, but also intelligent, with a very compelling plot. I truly enjoyed the old-fashioned whodunit atmosphere, the classic "10 house guests and one commits a murder" theme that Kiely managed to pull off beautifully without once seeming corny. The characters are fun, the setting everything a reader seeks in a cozy mystery, and the ending superb, impossible to anticipate. Loved it! I will be reading this author all summer.
July 13, 2020
This book earns four stars for it's homage to the classic works of Jane Austen and others and because it kept me guessing until the end. When I originally picked this book up I did not realize it was set in present day. The title really should be "Murder at the Inn at Longbourn" since that is where the crime takes place and in this story there is no plain "Longbourn." I enjoyed the frequent quotes from books I love and the humor in the writing. Jane and her Aunt Winnie are relatable and likeable characters. The supporting cast was also interesting. I figured out some of the twists ahead of time but did not solve the crime before all was revealed.
August 18, 2017
Nicely written and I enjoyed the writer's style. Still not sure how I felt about the main character. But I guess it wouldn't be a good story if the main character did everything you think they should do and saw clearly those things right in front of them. This was a fun cozy but was not "clean" - some cussing and sexual innuendo - so if you like your cozy's chaste, this might not be for you. I didn't mind it and it didn't seem out of place or awkward but exactly what you would expect Elizabeth to say and do. Enjoyed it and would read on through the series.
April 15, 2019
I picked up this book for the same reason many of its readers do, I am sure - I love all things Jane Austen! Overall this is a light, easy read. Though I found the content at times repetitive and silly, the mystery of who-dun-it was quite compelling. As I read, I began picturing the characters in my mind. I applaud the author’s careful placement of details which made imagining what they looked and sounded like possible. Detective Stewart was particularly well developed! Overall I say the book has a decent storyline, is readable and was enjoyable.
December 23, 2023
Actually rated this book 4.5. Book club selection of the month. I'm on a roll for very fun cozy mysteries! This one takes place in a B&B in Cape Cod with characters vaguely based on characters from Pride & Prejudice. The characters were well described, the romantic entanglements fun but not overshadowing of the mystery, and red herrings galore! SPOILERS....
I figured out quickly who Joan was, that Jackie was acting as Linnet and that Peter had a dog not a girlfriend. Despite catching on to Jackie, I still didn't realize she was the villain--I thought she was acting to save her skin.
I figured out quickly who Joan was, that Jackie was acting as Linnet and that Peter had a dog not a girlfriend. Despite catching on to Jackie, I still didn't realize she was the villain--I thought she was acting to save her skin.
January 21, 2024
This book was a terrible disappointment. It bears virtually nothing in common with Jane Austen’s works. There are a few stupidly extracted quotes from Pride and Prejudice in the first few chapters, but then nothing else. The lead character/narrator shows none of the wit or intelligence of an Austen heroine. The mystery itself is crafted in the most unconvincing terms. On the positive side, the author does give exhaustive and pointless descriptions of what people are wearing all the time. Really one of the least enjoyable and senseless mysteries I’ve encountered.
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