Murder the Tey Way (Golden Age of Mystery Book Club) by Marilyn Levinson – Review by Jennifer Crain
Murder the Tey Way by Marilyn Levinson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Marilyn Levinson’s “Murder the Tey Way” delivers a cozy mystery with a charming premise—a Golden Age of Mystery Bookclub, a puzzling murder, and an amateur sleuth determined to uncover the truth. The story centers on Professor Lexie Driscoll, who finds herself in the midst of a murder investigation after her sister Gayle arrives in a panic, claiming to have witnessed a murder and fearing for her own life.
The book starts off with a compelling setup, introducing a classic cozy mystery environment with a bookclub setting and a series of mysterious events. Levinson does well to incorporate elements of Golden Age mysteries, from the book discussions to the eccentric characters, offering a nostalgic nod to the genre’s traditional tropes.
Lexie, the protagonist, takes on the role of amateur sleuth with determination, and her involvement in the investigation drives the plot forward. The bookclub members, each with their own secrets and quirks, add to the intrigue and complexity of the story. However, while the characters are colorful, they sometimes lack depth, making it difficult to fully connect with their motivations and backgrounds.
The plot is layered with red herrings and twists that keep the reader guessing. However, the execution of these twists can feel a bit overwhelming at times, leading to moments where the storyline becomes confusing rather than captivating. The numerous secrets and revelations, while intended to add complexity, sometimes detract from the overall clarity of the mystery.
Pacing is another area where the book wavers. Certain sections drag as Lexie delves into the background of the bookclub members, while others rush through key developments. This uneven pacing affects the overall suspense and engagement with the story.
Despite these issues, “Murder the Tey Way” has its strengths. Levinson’s affection for classic detective fiction is evident, and the book offers a light, enjoyable read for fans of cozy mysteries. The references to Josephine Tey and the bookclub setting provide a nice touch for those who appreciate literary nods within their mysteries.
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