A quick, easy murder mystery to fill your evenings, Gilding the Lily by Justine John might be for you.
The plot:
An invitation to her estranged, wealthy father’s surprise 75th birthday party in New York, sees London-based Amelia and her husband Jack, set off across the pond to meet a whole new world of family politics.
Amelia, now a successful business woman, feels guilty about never liking her father’s women, so does her upmost to give his new socialite partner, Evelyn, the benefit of the doubt.
When Amelia’s father, Roger, becomes ill, Jack grows suspicious that there is more to it. Amelia understands why, but no one else will believe them…
It’s a great ‘cozy crime, by the fireplace’ type of read
Gilding the Lily reads like a murder mystery, as you know that there’s a funeral at the beginning in the prologue, and you’re unsure who it relates to. It’s very much a guessing game as to what’s going to happen at the end of the story. I’ve cut out bits of the synopsis, as I think it predicts the story slightly.
The writing is a bit mixed for me – there are some stunning descriptions and lots of conversation to make it a quick read, however there are a few minor spelling/grammar mistakes which I don’t expect in a published book.
Chapters are predominantly split between Amelia and Jack, which I enjoyed as it allowed you to see someone closer to the puzzle and then someone with more of a logical mind – I did find they sounded quite similar. You then have the odd chapter with third parties, which was well done.
There are a few shocking elements, especially when it came down to the four main character’s relationship – my jaw dropped a few times because of the treatment.
You’ll find yourself between London and New York and mixed up in a bundle of deceit, lies and confusion. It’s a great ‘cozy crime, by the fireplace’ type of read.
Evelyn’s portrayal was definitely my favourite aspect. She was incredibly well-written, and even as a reader, you’re manipulated by her. There are some questionable (but unfortunately, realistic) moments, and the dynamics were set-up brilliantly. Even down to how family friends wouldn’t get involved because of this manipulation.
The ending was great and pulled together well, especially with a good plot twist (not overly shocking but didn’t necessarily see it coming). I do wish we had one additional chapter which offered more detail.
It’s a good 3-stars; I loved the drama and looking in from multiple perspectives, but on the other hand, did find it dragged a few times and there is a lot of repetition.
Gilding the Lily, Justine John, RRP £7.99 (paperback); Book Depository
Pages: 232
Self-published
Genre: Murder Mystery
