A Necessary Murder by M.J. Tjia Review

This wasn't really up my alley and I should have known since the description mentioned that is was based in 1863. I usually hate books that are set in historical times. However, it had an Agatha Christie vibe to it so it got me intrigued. 

The first problem, for me, was the writing. The writing was great, except, I'm Canadian so the old British writing style is really hard for me to understand. I had to use my Kindle dictionary a lot, so I felt like I could understand 3/4 of the book and what was going on at a given time. That's on me though, that's why I must say the writing was great.

The other issues I had with this novel is that it took forever before the real investigating the murder started, around 40% of the book, by then I was already bored. 

Finally, there was a lot of plot holes for me and things I didn't understand. I still have so many questions. Also, the story itself, I didn't get the motive behind the murders. Even after finishing the book, so I wasn't really captivated as I kept reading. Also, I felt like there were two stories going parallel but not tied in together. Even though in the end they tried, I kind of think Amah's story was pointless. I'm sorry for all your historical fiction fans out there, but this wasn't for me.

However, I did like the part where the main character is undercover and the sex scenes. That kept me interested.

Thank you to Legends Press for providing me with an electronic ARC of this book via NetGalley. As usual, my reviews are my honest and unbiased opinions.


Stoke Newington, 1863: Little Margaret Lovejoy is found brutally murdered in the outhouse at her family's estate.

A few days later, a man is cut down in a similar manner on the doorstep of courtesan and professional detective Heloise Chancey's prestigious address. At the same time, Heloise's maid, Amah Li Leen, must confront events from her past that appear to have erupted into the present day.


Once again Heloise is caught up in a maelstrom of murder and deceit that threatens to reach into the very heart of her existence. 

No comments

Post a Comment