Hooray for another 2025 cozy mystery! I love a senior citizen solving crimes, Ted Danson’s Netflix series Man on the Inside and the Kathy Bates CBS drama Matlock both take advantage of a trope about how after a certain age, women become invisible. Mrs. Muriel Blossom is a delight, honestly. She is a Baltimorean assistant to a PI who finds a lottery ticket in the parking lot of a gas station. She goes on a holiday to Paris, makes a brief romantic connection with a man named Allan who is found dead the next day. She is to cruise with her friend Elinor, who is more beautiful but a wonderful friend.
The mystery here was definitely a cozy one, yes someone is murdered, but we didn’t know him well and we aren’t sure we trust him anyway. This is more about the luxury world of art and jewel heists.
In the author’s notes, Laura talks about how she was challenged by readers to include less fat phobia and a more body positive message. And she took that criticism to heart and educated herself by following the work of body positive authors and content creators. I have to say, I really respect this. Mrs. Muriel Blossom is not at all a caricature of a plus sized 68 year old woman, of course she has insecurities due to the diet culture we are all a part of, but she is so much more than what her body looks like. I really love when someone grows and appreciates feedback, and the research was well worth it. Although her age and stature are a big part of her character, this is presented in the most endearing and respectful way. Bravo.
Thanks to NetGalley and William Morrow for the advanced copy in exchange for an honest review. Book to be published June 17, 2025.
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