It was fun to revisit old favorite characters and see annoying ones get knocked off, but for a murder mystery this wasn’t particularly suspenseful or mysterious and dragged quite a bit. Some of the phrasing seemed rather modern and anachronistic, too.

Thank you to NetGalley and Kensington Publishing for the ARC!

I really enjoyed this Regency historical fiction murder mystery. It’s been about 25 years since I’ve read Jane Austen’s “Emma,” so I now have the urge to reread it.

The writing style was excellent and captured the nature of that period. Emma Knightley is an amateur detective (much to her husband’s chagrin) in this delightful cozy murder mystery. You’re kept guessing until the end and along the way you the characters really come to life (some more likable than others).

This is supposedly the first in a series - I look forward to reading future installments!

I have to say, this “generation” of Austen retellings are spectacular. I love that authors are choosing to continue these stories for more than their romance- it allows for more creative stories without feeling like they are simply an afterthought, and I’m glad that so many have embraced it. They don’t “interfere” with Austen’s novels in any way but expand out so beautifully.

Murder in Highbury continues on Emma and Knightley’s story in the perfect way. We get to see what their married life might be like and we get to shift to a Austen-ish mystery. I think that setting Emma up as our amateur sleuth is also spot on, as I cannot name an Austen character more likely to be digging around in a murder investigation. This is blasphemy, but I found Emma’s character slightly irritating in the original novel due to her meddling. However, in a murder mystery? It is put to its best use and I am here for it!

Kelly also utilised Austen’s supporting characters well; Mr Woodhouse was a standout in particular. (Continuously musing on a murder and people’s characters is absolutely in his wheelhouse…) There are more than enough callbacks to the original characters and stories to grab an Austenite but it is also a fresh story that is very entertaining for those who are less familiar with Emma.

The author has also clearly done her research on both Austen’s novels and the period. Cosy mysteries with a historical setting can sometimes end up reaching beyond the period in more than few ways but there is no such problem with Kelly’s novel.

This is a must-read for anyone who loves The Murder of Mr. Wickham or Emma itself! Here is hoping that this will be continuing on as a series, as well.

Highbury England - 1815

Mrs. Emma Woodhouse Knightley has discovered a dead body in her village church. It turns out that it is Mrs. Elton, wife of the Vicar. She had been bashed over the head and her ornate necklace ripped from around her neck.

Emma is married to George Knightley, a wealthy landowner and the local magistrate. He is working to update his home, Donwell Abbey as they stay at her father’s home, Hartfield. Her father is rather ill and Emma feels the need to be closeby to take care of him.

Thus begins the investigation to find the murderer. First, Miss Bates, a spinster, is thought to have done it as it appears Mrs. Elton felt the woman owed her money. We have Dr. Hughes, the coroner who is a pompous ass.

Emma puts on her sleuthing hat and tries to solve the mystery herself to the chagrin of her husband, George. There are lots of characters in the parish that are all friends and they spend lots of time drinking tea and discussing the case.

This book is overly long which I found to be irritating as so much time was spent just discussing the case to death. The dialogue was certainly written for the time period which I’m sure was not easy for the author to produce. So, that is a plus. However, the story just dragged out way too long for me. Sorry.

Copy provided by NetGalley and Edelweiss in exchange for a fair and honest review.

Murder in Highbury by Vanessa Kelly is a cozy mystery that begins as Emma Knightly and Harriet Martin discover Mrs. Elton’s dead body inside Highbury’s church. This is quite shocking for this small village.

I found this to be a light mystery novel with a plucky heroine and an interesting cast of characters in the villagers. But....I have not read Jane Austin's Emma (gasp)- so, I may have not been the right audience for this one.

There’s was a lot of slow moving "old fashioned drama" going on (think courting and marriages)and just not enough mystery solving pace in this story to stoke my interest.

Thank you to Netgalley, the publisher, and the author for the ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review.

If you’re a fan of Jane Austen’s work, especially her novel, Emma, this book is for you. Murder at Highbury features many of the characters from Jane Austen’s Emma, including Emma herself, now Mrs. George Knightley; George Knightley; her friend Harriet; the Reverend Mr. Elton; Emma’s father Mr. Woodhouse; and so forth. When Emma and Harriet find the murdered body of Mrs. Elton in the church, the action starts. But there’s really not a lot of action. While she has abandoned her matchmaking efforts, Emma now flexes her talents as an amateur sleuth - mostly by talking to people and being observant. And there’s lots and lots of talking. And drinking of tea. I think there really was only one significant action scene and that was very near the end when the murderer was revealed. At 400 pages, I think it could have been pared down quite a bit and been a more enjoyable reading experience.

Thank you to Kensington Books and NetGalley for the opportunity to read a review copy of this book. All opinions are my own.

This was such a good, light, regency era read. I loved the character development and dynamic between the FMC and MMC.

Murder in Highbury
Vanessa Kelly

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫 4.5/5 stars

If you were a Jane Austen fan, you’re going to love this one. It is a wonderful cozy historical who-done-it murder mystery. It was full of humor, wit, and even suspense.

If you have read any of Austen’s books, you’re probably familiar with Emma. This one is post Emma and George’s wedding. Emma is just as charming and witty as ever. I really enjoyed seeing Emma and George’s relationship continuing to blossom.

The whole-done-it murder mystery, was enough to keep me guessing and turning the pages wanting more.

I truly hope that Vanessa Kelly writes more and this turns into a series. I am 100% here for it.

Although several authors have reimagined Jane Austen and her fictional characters in the role of mystery-solving sleuth, Emma Woodhouse Knightley is uniquely qualified for the appointment, in my opinion. Janeites can recall Emma’s penchant for meddling, in particular within the realm of matchmaking. See seems to notice details that others don’t, and while she does not always make the best choices, she is often wise in her assessments. Appreciating her uniqueness is George Knightley, who marries her in spite of, and possibly because of her foibles. He loves her for all that she is. These characteristics remain true in the new novel by Vanessa Kelly, <i>Murder in Highbury.</i> In this Austenesque murder-mystery, Emma sets aside her matchmaking hobby (for now) when she stumbles upon a gruesome death. Along with husband George, she pieces together the clues to determine the full picture of what has occurred in their otherwise quiet town.

<i>Murder in Highbury</i> does open with the discovery of a startling murder, but the general feel of the novel is very light and is a diverting tour of the characters from Jane Austen’s <i>Emma.</i> Vanessa Kelly most certainly has her fingers on the pulse of these vivid personalities, from Emma and her family members, down to employees on the estate grounds. Readers who are unfamiliar with the source material would do well to either read the original text or at minimum watch a faithful screen adaptation of Austen’s novel. The 1996 <i>Emma</i> movie with Gwyneth Paltrow is one of my favorites, and the faces from that film populated my mind as I read the book. Understanding the backstory of the main characters was helpful to me as I took in Kelly’s mystery and enjoyed the narrative.

From a content standpoint, <i>Murder in Highbury</i> does have a few adult moments, but they are quite tame. Of course there is the murder of Mrs. Elton, done in a somewhat dramatic way on the grounds of the church. There are also just a few instances of salty language, but those moments are rare and very PG-rated. I would feel comfortable recommending the material to just about anyone.

Vanessa Kelly has done fabulous work with Austen’s characters. She understands them inside and out, and she is also quite cognizant of the historical aspects of the period. Emma as a married female does not have the exact standing as her husband, a local magistrate. Women did not have the same place in courtrooms that men did. Kelly shines a light on these issues without being overly derogatory, and she also promotes the strength and intelligence of women as well. I particularly liked the manner in which Emma and George interacted with each other. George understood his place in society, but he never belittles his wife. He cannot fully endorse her “sleuthing”, as she is not an officer of the law, but he works in concert with her as she sniffs out information. Although they hold different positions in their community, they are nonetheless equals in their relationship with each other. It was refreshing to witness this type of loving interaction within a 19th century marriage.

I was excited to learn that <i>Murder in Highbury</i> is the beginning of a series. This opening volume was light, interesting, and kept me guessing. Now that I’ve finished the novel, I want to return to the opening chapters in order to suss out the clues that I missed all along the way. The answer to the “whodunnit” question was in front of me the entire time. Vanessa Kelly took me on a fun ride, and I look forward to seeing what she brings to her readership next.

This is the first book in a new series and is a cosy mystery set during the Regency period, with Jane Austen’s, Emma Knightley as the amateur detective. This mystery is filled with lots of suspects and provided me with a few chuckles that lightened the mood of the serious subject of the story and although the villain seemed clear to may way before Emma solves things it was still a fun read. Looking forward to more. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

It's the nicest thing when you pick up a book and it captures you from page 1, whether it's some heart-pounding action, suspense, horror, or something that makes you cry from the beginning and you know its going to be that kind of book, or maybe something that gets your heart racing to start 😉.

Murder in Highbury captured me like this, and with this book, it was its charm. Yes, this book is simply charming. It's a cozy mystery set during the Regency period, with Jane Austen’s, Emma Knightley as the amateur sleuther.

This book seemed very true to the time period and to Emma's personality. The vicar’s unpleasant wife has been murdered in the church, and Emma is first on the scene. This mystery is filled with lots of plausible, and some implausible suspects, and it seemed that just when the constable thought he had his criminal, Emma was on hand to present the reasons why the accused couldn't be the perpetrator, leaving the reader always questioning.

The story provided me with a few chuckles that lightened the mood of the serious subject of the story. In fact, even Emma admits that the investigation has often taken a nonsensical turn.

Overall, this was such a delightful story. If you are a fan of Claudia Gray's, Mr. Darcy and Miss Tilney series, then this book is for you.

Thank you to Kensington Books for the advanced digital copy of this book. My opinions are my own.

Hello! :) Firstly, many thanks, indeed, to Netgalley for having provided me with an ARC of Murder in Highbury to review. I absolutely love, love, love Murder in Highbury! I read this book in two sittings; I was super motivated throughout this book to 'turn the page' and could not wait to 'see what happens next.' I am eager buy the hardcopy as well. I have enjoyed Vanessa Kelly's other books, and Murder in Highbury is no exception. I would say it is probably her best to date. I believe Murder in Highbury is the beginning of a series, so that will be wonderful. This book seamlessly summons and captures the spirit of Jane Austen and her amazing book, Emma - in character, style (including dialogue) and essence. Taking Emma from her role in Jane Austen's book to Emma the sleuth in Murder in Highbury is a completely smooth transition - so, to me, it was like 'why not?' to have Emma be a detective. The plot was wonderful, and the mystery was well-done and brilliantly considered. I fell in love with the characters all over agian - particularly Emma and George! Thank you again! :) I highly recommend Murder in Highbury! :)

Murder in Highbury
A Emma Knightly Mystery#1
By Vanessa Kelly

Emma Woodhouse is no more, rather she is Emma Knightley, newly married, and enjoying life in Highbury. But in an instant everything is disrupted when she and Harriet (Smith) Martin find a body in the church. If finding a body wasn't shocking enough the identity is even more so, Mrs. Elton is dead! And Emma is convinced she was murdered even before anyone else has been summoned or the inquest is held. Highbury's idealic charm is shattered with fears that a murderer is now in their midst.

Fearing that justice won't find the true killer, Emma flaunts expectations and takes it upon herself to find the killer. With the skills she formerly employed as a matchmaker she turns to sluething.

Murder in Highbury is the next chapter in the life of Emma Woodhouse and all the characters who called Highbury home. This was a fun read mostly, excepting for Mrs, Elton. There is a familiarity with the characters. The writing makes this feel like this the next logical step in the lives of the people one got to know while enjoying Jame Austen's original work Emma. An enjoyable read for fans of Jane Ausen or Regency who-dunits. This easily a potential reread, in my opinion. I look forward to the second book in this series.

I was provided a complimentary copy of this book with no expectations but that I provide my honest opinion. All thoughts expressed are my own.

I loved this Regency mystery! It paid perfect homage to Jane Austen's Emma, while seamlessly intertwining a gripping mystery that kept me on the edge of my seat.

It was well-written, had great character development, and the mystery was clever and kept me guessing. Emma was just as charming as I’d hoped she’d be. I really loved the familiar cast of characters, and being reunited with them was a delight.

If you're a fan of Jane Austen's Emma and of cozy historical mysteries, you won’t want to miss this one!

I received an advanced copy from the author, publisher, and NetGalley. All opinions are my own and a positive review wasn’t required.

"Emma pressed a hand to her bodice. "Me, interfere? You must be thinking of some other Emma."

This is an amazing novel, doing the seemingly impossible and making me actually like Emma (nee Woodhouse) Knightley. While I like Austen's story about Emma, I loathe her character. Actually, I had forgotten how much until I picked up this book and decided to rewatch one of the movies just to refresh my memory of the story (yes, I know it's not the same as reading the book). Omg, I hate her so much. I guess the author decided that Emma had a complete personality change after she got married, though. Which is great, because the original personality is horrible.

Anyway . . . I loved this book so much and am hopeful that there will be more books. ❤️ So many times, I thought I had figured out who the murderer was, just to be confused again. In the end, it was one of the people I originally guessed, but then immediately dismissed. Of course, that isn't saying much because I immediately guess everyone, so at the end. I can say I was right 😉

Thanks to NetGalley for the free Kindle book!!! My opinions are my own, and my review is voluntarily given.

I’m always so nervous when a new Jane Austen re-imaging comes out! Of course, I know I will have to read it, but there is so much potential for failure. Austen’s characters are so classic, her tales so iconic, and her style of writing so specific, that it’s very hard for modern authors to properly capture the certain “je ne sais quoi” of the entire endeavor. I’ve read many failures over the years. At the same time, there have been some true gems as well! So, with much trepidation, I nabbed a copy of this while at ALA over the summer!

Well, before we get into details, I’m pleased to report that this one falls solidly in the “great” category as far as Austen re-tellings go! It does an excellent job of not only recreating the basic essence of the main characters that make up “Emma,” but it also does not fall into the trap of too much fan service. Instead, there is a solid and unique mystery at its heart that holds up well, even without the Austen setting and references!

I’ll get to the mystery in a bit, but first off, the primary concern going into any “Emma” variation is how well the author manages to capture the titular character herself! Emma is one of the most beloved of Austen’s heroines (I imagine much to Austen’s surprise as she is well-known for questioning whether any reader would love this heroine as much as she did), but she is also notoriously difficult to get right. She’s smart, confident, and fiercely defensive of those she loves. But at the same time, she can be thoughtless, impulsive, and quick-tongued.

Here, the author made the wise decision to set the story after the events of the original book. Not only does this allow the story to read fully as its own, but it also allows the author to benefit from the growth that Emma went through in her story. Here, she is a happily married woman. So while many of her traits are the same, they are also tempered with the experience that comes with the lessons she originally learned. Like the original, this character was a blast to follow throughout the story. Her nosiness and enjoyment of theorizing about the lives of others pair perfectly with a would-be amateur sleuth. I particularly enjoyed her growing distain for the men in charge of solving the mystery.

I also really liked the romance between her and Knightley. Obviously, all Jane Austen novels devote very little time to the characters after the love confession or marriage, so one of the primary points of interest in books like this one is getting a sneak peak at what the couple could be like afterwards. And I really like what we got here! Knightley’s loving bewilderment for his wife comes through strongly, as well as Emma’s respect for her husband, even if she often disregards his advice. It’s all very wholesome and works perfectly for the sorts of characters we know these two to be.

As for the mystery itself, I thought it was pretty good. There were a decent number of red herrings, and, as I mentioned earlier, I liked a few of the original characters who were brought into to deal with solving the murder. That said, it did become fairly obvious rather early on who was behind it all and even their motivations. But that still didn’t reduce my enjoyment, as I was happy to just exist in this world and follow Emma along through all of her exploits.

I thought this was a romp of a time and I couldn’t be more pleased to now have two series (I believe this is the first in a series) of Jane Austen mysteries that are managing to capture the spirit of the originals so well! I think most Austen fans will be likewise charmed by this tale!

Rating 8: Who knew that Emma would make an extraordinary sleuth? Besides, herself, of course! A wonderful historical mystery that is sure to please Janeites everywhere!

Link will go live on The Library Ladies blog on Nov. 29

What is your favorite type of jewelry? Or do you prefer to not wear any jewelry? I lovw my pearl necklace that my husband bought for me a gift years ago. A missing pearl necklace is featured in Murder in Highbury by Vanessa Kelly.

Emma Knightley is newly married and enjoying life. Life takes a turn in Highbury when together when her friend Harriet, they discover the murdered body of Mrs. Elton. Who murdered Mrs. Elton and why?

My thoughts on this novel:
• I greatly enjoyed this cozy mystery.

• Vanessa Kelly has perfect captured Jane Austen’s characters from Emma. This was a great continuation from the classic novel. It starts about one year after the conclusion of Emma.

• I liked getting to see the married couples of Emma and George Knightley, Harriet and Robert Martin, Jane and Frank Churchill.

• I felt like there were hints that perhaps Mr. Woodhouse could have feelings for Miss Bates. I would like to see this storyline develop in further novels.

• This is labeled “An Emma Knightley Mystery.” In the press release, it states that this will be a series featuring Emma as the detective and in the future, there may be crossovers from other Austen novels. I would love to read more in this series.

• There were many red herrings in this mystery, and I enjoyed the journey. I guess the murderer early on, but I didn’t fully believe they were the killer until the very end. The mystery had a satisfying conclusion.

• I loved that Emma retains her wit from the original novel and had many funny and witty conversations.

• I liked that George Knightley is the magistrate. This makes sense and really gives him an intricate role into the investigation.

Favorite Quote: “I cannot believe Mrs. Elton would approve of so frugal a state of affairs. She is no doubt looking down – or up from wherever she is, mortified at such cheeseparing ways.”

Overall, Murder in Highbury by Vanessa Kelly is an engaging cozy historical mystery full of witty banter and it is a great continuation of Jane Austen’s classic novel Emma.

Book Source: Review copy from Kensington Books as part of the Austenprose PR Book Tour. Thank-you! Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Such a delightful story and a good mystery. George and Emma have such a good relationship, but it is strained a bit when Emma and Harriet stumble across the dead body of the vicar's wife. As magistrate, George has to investigate, and Emma is only too glad to help. George wants to keep her as far away from the investigation as possible. Emma knows that she can help and continues to investigate on her own. The vicar keeps coming up with clues about various suspects and keeps everyone trying to prove or disprove each one. It seems the whole village is getting into it. When danger comes to George, Emma is ready to throw herself in front of him. Will they survive?

I thoroughly enjoyed this fun historical romance that takes a murder mystery and plunks it down into Jane Austen’s Emma. I liked that the story was true to the original characters and setting in Emma.

I think that the murder happened to the person who most deserved to be bumped off. I thought I had the murderer pegged, but I was surprised by the murderer in the end.

If you enjoy reading Jane Austeneque fiction or historical mysteries - give this book a try.

I am reviewing this book as a non-Austen expert; though I have read Emma I wouldn't say I'm any kind of expert. And I'm happy to say that even if you haven't read Emma (the inspiration for the characters), this book was easy to follow and enjoy. Any pertenant previous drama is mentioned and explained so that you can understand the relationships between characters. I adored Emma and George and their equal and loving relationship! There is a lot of drama with their friends and aquaintenances - mostly about who courted and tried to marry who - which is to be expected and added flare and some laughs. Emma's father is one of those characters that made you roll your eyes, but also laugh sometimes because he was over the top. I love how Emma stood up for herself, when all the men in authority treated her poorly because she is a woman; and I love how George stood up for her. I was SHOCKED by the reveal! A great start to this mystery series.