Mastering the Art of French Murder
Ratings7
Average rating3.1
Set in the City of Light and starring Julia Child’s (fictional) best friend, confidant, and fellow American, this magnifique new historical mystery series from the acclaimed author of Murder at Mallowan Hall combines a fresh perspective on the iconic chef’s years in post-WWII Paris with a delicious mystery and a unique culinary twist. Perfect for fans of Jacqueline Winspear, Marie Benedict, Nita Prose, and of course, Julia Child alike! As Paris rediscovers its joie de vivre, Tabitha Knight, recently arrived from Detroit for an extended stay with her French grandfather, is on her own journey of discovery. Paris isn’t just the City of Light; it’s the city of history, romance, stunning architecture . . . and food. Thanks to her neighbor and friend Julia Child, another ex-pat who’s fallen head over heels for Paris, Tabitha is learning how to cook for her Grandpère and Oncle Rafe. Between tutoring Americans in French, visiting the market, and eagerly sampling the results of Julia’s studies at Le Cordon Bleu cooking school, Tabitha’s sojourn is proving thoroughly delightful. That is, until the cold December day they return to Julia’s building and learn that a body has been found in the cellar. Tabitha recognizes the victim as a woman she’d met only the night before, at a party given by Julia’s sister, Dort. The murder weapon found nearby is recognizable too—a knife from Julia’s kitchen. Tabitha is eager to help the investigation, but is shocked when Inspector Merveille reveals that a note, in Tabitha’s handwriting, was found in the dead woman’s pocket. Is this murder a case of international intrigue, or something far more personal? From the shadows of the Tour Eiffel at midnight, to the tiny third-floor Child kitchen, to the grungy streets of Montmartre, Tabitha navigates through the city hoping to find the real killer before she or one of her friends ends up in prison . . . or worse. “A first-rate traditional mystery with strong characterization that is certain to appeal to a broad readership, especially fans of Jacqueline Winspear, Rhys Bowen, and Cambridge’s own Phyllida Bright series.” –First Clue, STARRED REVIEW for Mastering the Art of French Murder
Series
Featured Series
2 primary books#1 in An American in Paris
An American in Paris is a 2-book series with 2 primary works first released in 2023 with contributions by Colleen Cambridge.
Reviews
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“Mastering the Art of French Murder” by Colleen Cambridge is a captivating mystery set in post-WWII Paris. The story revolves around Tabitha Knight, a young American who is staying with her French grandfather. Through her friendship with Julia Child, Tabitha discovers the joys of cooking and explores the vibrant city of Paris.
The narrative takes an unexpected turn when Tabitha and Julia stumble upon a murder in Julia's building. Tabitha recognizes the victim as someone she had met the previous night at a party. To her shock, a note in her handwriting was found in the victim's pocket. Determined to clear her name and find the actual killer, Tabitha embarks on a thrilling journey through the streets of Paris.
So, let's talk about “Mastering the Art of French Murder” by Colleen Cambridge. May I just say that cover is on point! It caught my eye right away. So, onto the review. This book was an absolute delight! I mean, you've got Julia Child doing what she does best - cooking - and then you throw in a friend who solves mysteries. How cool is that? Plus, there are these two adorable Monsieurs and a dog named Oscar Wilde. And it's all set in Paris after World War II! As if that wasn't enough, there's even a connection to Detroit with mentions of Faygo and Boblo Island (I used to go there all the time as a kid). I loved every minute of it!
The writing in this book is fantastic. The pace is fast, keeping you hooked from start to finish. And the mystery itself? So engaging! I couldn't wait to find out whodunit. Honestly, I'm counting down the days for the second book in the series, “A Murder Most French”!
In a nutshell, “Mastering the Art of French Murder” is a delightful read that combines cooking, mystery-solving, and the magic of post-war Paris in the most captivating way. The author really nailed it with this one. Can't recommend it enough!
ARC Via NetGalley
A light froth of a murder mystery set in Paris and launching what will obviously be a series with Tabitha, a fictional young American woman living with her great-uncle and her grandfather and neighbors (and fellow sleuth) with Julia Child. A fun conceit, giving the author time to explore the City of Lights, culinary treats, and oh, the occasional murder. Fine set of secondary characters although the plot itself was long on coincidence and short on clues that would actually lead to detecting who was behind the murders. If you're in the mood for a 1950's cozy with an interesting concept that doesn't tax your brain cells but offers an intriguing romp, this book's for you.
I loved the premise, and the cover is gorgeous. The writing comes across as modern rather than evoking the time period. The amateur-detective main character explained everything and stated the obvious repeatedly. I don't know if her naiveté was meant to be a charming personality quirk, but the fact that she'd worked as a riveter in a bomber plant during the war made her lack of little grey cells perplexing. I was left with no sense of her having attained mastery. Unfortunately, like Julia's mayonnaise problem, this just didn't come together. It was such a great idea for a mystery.
