Tuesday's Tome: A Matter of Murder

This was a fun one to review for School Library Journal.  I am a freak about all things "Pride and Prejudice."  So when this one came up, I could not refuse.  Here is my review of "A Matter of Murder." 

“A Matter Of Murder” is the conclusion to the Lizzie & Darcy duology. Ms. Price first establishes the characters in the previous book “In Want of a Suspect” (HarperCollins 2024).  Here is where Lizzie is established as a solicitor in her father’s firm, Longbourne, and where she meets the dashing Mr. Darcy.
 
In the latest mystery from Tirzah Price, Lizzie Bennet’s beloved sister, Jane has married Mr. Bingley and then moved to Netherfield Park.  The Bennet family along with Mr. Darcy decides to pay the newlyweds a visit. However, the visit soon turns menacing as a dead body has been found in the flue of the fireplace.  Lizzie, hoping for a bit of a rest from her last case, cannot help herself and soon a full blown investigation ensues. During her inquiries, Lizzie finds out that Netherfield is cursed, at least that is what the locals say.Knowing better than to believe in the absurdity of a curse, Lizzie and Darcy try to uncover the truth of the dead man found in the chimney.  The more they delve into the case, the more dangerous it becomes.  Now Lizzie and Darcy have to decide if the curse is real, or is there someone behind the scenes threatening them.
 
Fans of Jane Austen will delight in encountering familiar faces—Lizzie, her parents, her lively younger sisters, Darcy, Jane, Mr. Bingley, and even the formidable Lady Catherine de Bourgh. While a few plotlines diverge from the original Pride and Prejudice (Peter Pauper, 2023), the most notable difference is that Lizzie and Darcy do not marry alongside Jane and Mr. Bingley. Instead, they remain unmarried throughout much of this story. Still, devoted Austen enthusiasts will appreciate the twist and enjoy this charming mystery, where Lizzie and Darcy join forces and ultimately discover love together.
 
Verdict:  Those who love Jane Austen and/or mysteries will adore this version of the beloved couple, Lizzie and Darcy.  The book will be a superb addition to any 9-12th grade library.