Book Review: Death and the Lit Chick (The St. Just Mysteries)
As a fan of cozy mysteries, I couldn’t resist picking up Death and the Lit Chick by G.M. Malliet. The title alone struck a chord, promising a delightful mix of humor and intrigue, all set against the backdrop of a literary conference at a Scottish castle. Plus, as someone who often critiques the genre, the opportunity to dive into a mystery that not only entertains but also pokes fun at the world of crime writing was irresistible.
In this second book of the St. Just series, we rejoin Detective Chief Inspector Arthur St. Just, who finds himself amid a motley crew of crime writers, each with their unique quirks and eccentricities. The inclusion of characters like the successful (yet utterly despised) Kimberlee Kalder adds a fascinating layer to the story. Kimberlee, a chick-lit author who has hit the jackpot, becomes the target of both jealousy and, ultimately, murder. The satirical undertones throughout the narrative, especially when the writers discuss tropes and clichés—like “You have to have a corpse by page fifty-seven”—greatly enhanced my reading experience. It’s this kind of witty dialogue that reminds us of the often absurd nature of writing while keeping the plot engaging.
Malliet’s writing style is a warm hug wrapped in humor. She deftly balances suspense with snappy dialogues, making the characters feel vibrant and relatable. I found the pacing just right; the story unfolds naturally, allowing moments of tension to sit comfortably alongside lighter comedic bits. The interaction between characters stirred a refreshing, almost nostalgic familiarity. As I got to know the motley ensemble—each representing a stereotype of mystery writers—I felt like I was part of their dialogue, sharing in their insecurities and ambitions.
The twist in the plot was compelling, and while I tried to guess the murderer’s identity, I found myself delightfully misled, echoing sentiments from other readers who described the story’s resolution as satisfying yet surprising. One excerpt from a review particularly resonated with me: “utterly wrong on both counts,” reminding us that even the best of detectives can get it wrong.
However, not everything sparkled flawlessly. A few technical hiccups, like inconsistent punctuation and some American spelling in a British setting, tugged at my editorial sensibilities. These distractions, though, did little to dim my enjoyment of the story. Rather than detracting, they became quirks of the text, making the whole experience feel more human and relatable.
As I closed the book, I felt a sense of satisfaction, not just from the resolution of the mystery but from the exploration of character dynamics and the genre itself. Malliet has a knack for blending charm, wit, and intrigue, making this an excellent choice for those who appreciate clever storytelling with a lighthearted touch.
I recommend Death and the Lit Chick to mystery lovers, especially those who enjoy Agatha Christie’s works or other cozy whodunits. Whether you’re looking for a light, entertaining read or simply want to bask in some satirical commentary on the literary world, this book promises a delightful escape. I left Edinburgh Castle—figuratively, of course—feeling renewed by the company of intriguing characters and a well-spun mystery, already eager to see what adventures await St. Just next.
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