Are you looking for a delightful mystery with a twist? In this Murder Takes a Vacation review, I’ll explore how finding a winning lottery ticket leads Mrs. Blossom to a luxurious French cruise, where even a charming fellow passenger can harbor deadly secrets. For Mrs. Blossom, Laura Lippman’s delightful and unexpected senior protagonist, this dream quickly turns into a thrilling and perplexing reality. From a chance encounter on a transatlantic flight to a shocking death in Paris – that a potential new love interest was never supposed to reach – Mrs. Blossom’s vacation takes a sharp, suspenseful turn, leaving readers wondering who to trust and what secrets lie beneath the surface.
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Mrs. Blossom: An Unconventional Sleuth
Though perhaps a bit trusting, Mrs. Blossom has a unique advantage over the average passenger as an amateur sleuth. She’s a 68-year-old widow, a former assistant to P.I. Tess Monaghan, and a woman who values practicality above all else. It’s this down-to-earth nature, combined with a surprising sense of adventure, that makes her such a compelling character. Laura Lippman also makes sure to highlight Mrs. Blossom’s self-perception as an overweight woman, a detail that adds depth and relatability to her character. Her no-nonsense approach to life, honed through years of experience, allows her to navigate the increasingly complex situations she finds herself in. She is also a woman who is used to and enjoys her own company, which adds to the fun.
Despite her initial shock at the sudden turn of events, Mrs. Blossom quickly demonstrates a remarkable ability to adapt and think on her feet. Her genuine warmth shines through in her interactions with other passengers, even as she suspects many are hiding secrets. She proves that age is no barrier to adventure, embracing the unexpected with a blend of curiosity and courage. Readers will find themselves rooting for her every step of the way, drawn to her relatable charm and the refreshing perspective she brings to the classic mystery genre. She is proof that life can hold new and exciting possibilities regardless of how young or old you are.
A Deadly Turn in Paris
Mrs. Blossom’s idyllic vacation takes a sharp turn when the charming Allan, whom she met on the transatlantic flight, is found murdered in Paris – a destination he was never meant to reach. The romantic allure of their budding connection is shattered, leaving Mrs. Blossom reeling and questioning everyone around her. Throughout this, Mrs. Blossom’s own internal monologue often reflects on her weight, a detail that adds a layer of vulnerability and realism to her character’s experience.
Just as she begins to grapple with Allan’s mysterious death, Danny, another passenger, emerges, displaying a keen and unsettling interest in her. He claims Allan was involved in stolen art, hinting that Mrs. Blossom might hold crucial information. But who is Danny really, and what is his connection to Allan? Mrs. Blossom finds herself trapped in a web of intrigue, unsure who to trust and desperate to uncover the truth behind Allan’s murder and the sudden, suspicious attention from Danny. The perfectc cruise now feels like a dangerous game, with Mrs. Blossom at its center.
For a truly enjoyable escape, look no further than Murder Takes a Vacation. As this Murder Takes a Vacation review demonstrates, Laura Lippman has delivered a charming and suspenseful tale that will enchant mystery fans and readers seeking a lighthearted but engaging read. You’ll find yourself cheering on Mrs. Blossom as she navigates the treacherous waters of a cruise ship mystery, proving that adventure can be found at any age. Don’t miss this amusing novel for your next read to add to your bookcase set for release June 2025!
