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A review by booknerdzara
Murder at the Matinee by Jamie West
5.0
I received this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest, independent review.
In Murder at the Matinee, the second instalment of the Bertie Carroll Mysteries series, we once again find ourselves immersed in the vibrant and intriguing world of 1930s London theatreland. Gay playwright Bertie Carroll is thrust into the centre of a murder investigation when a mysterious newspaper advertisement ominously announces that a murder will occur during a show’s third act.
Rival playwright Alice reaches out to Bertie for his amateur detective skills. Together with Inspector Hugh Chapman, who returns from Death on the Pier, they combine Bertie’s intimate knowledge of the theatre with Chapman’s investigative expertise to unravel the mystery.
Jamie West masterfully crafts a historical mystery that is both engaging and richly detailed, showcasing his extensive knowledge of backstage workings from his day job in theatre. The characters are well-rounded and likeable, making it easy for readers to become invested in their journey. I particularly enjoyed the introduction of Alice, who added a fresh dynamic to the narrative.
While this book can be enjoyed as a standalone, I highly recommend reading the first instalment to fully appreciate the character development and backstory.
Much like in Death on the Pier, the chemistry between Bertie and Hugh is clear. However, given that Hugh is a detective and homosexuality was illegal in the UK during the 1930s, their connection is subtly suggested, reflecting the societal constraints and secrecy of the era.
With its Agatha Christie-esque twists, turns, and red herrings, Murder at the Matinee is a captivating whodunnit that will keep readers guessing until the very end. West has once again delivered a compelling narrative that celebrates the allure of the theatrical world.
In Murder at the Matinee, the second instalment of the Bertie Carroll Mysteries series, we once again find ourselves immersed in the vibrant and intriguing world of 1930s London theatreland. Gay playwright Bertie Carroll is thrust into the centre of a murder investigation when a mysterious newspaper advertisement ominously announces that a murder will occur during a show’s third act.
Rival playwright Alice reaches out to Bertie for his amateur detective skills. Together with Inspector Hugh Chapman, who returns from Death on the Pier, they combine Bertie’s intimate knowledge of the theatre with Chapman’s investigative expertise to unravel the mystery.
Jamie West masterfully crafts a historical mystery that is both engaging and richly detailed, showcasing his extensive knowledge of backstage workings from his day job in theatre. The characters are well-rounded and likeable, making it easy for readers to become invested in their journey. I particularly enjoyed the introduction of Alice, who added a fresh dynamic to the narrative.
While this book can be enjoyed as a standalone, I highly recommend reading the first instalment to fully appreciate the character development and backstory.
Much like in Death on the Pier, the chemistry between Bertie and Hugh is clear. However, given that Hugh is a detective and homosexuality was illegal in the UK during the 1930s, their connection is subtly suggested, reflecting the societal constraints and secrecy of the era.
With its Agatha Christie-esque twists, turns, and red herrings, Murder at the Matinee is a captivating whodunnit that will keep readers guessing until the very end. West has once again delivered a compelling narrative that celebrates the allure of the theatrical world.