A review by pkrawr
Murder in an English Village by Jessica Ellicott

4.0

It's interesting to find out what life was like in a small English village after WWI. I'm familiar with the 1920's era in the States, but never gave England a thought during that time period. The details on rationing and the severe injuries that soldiers returned with, as well as the results of the influenza epidemic, made for a fascinating (and heartbreaking) setting.
I'll be adding the rest of the Beryl & Edwina mysteries to my TBR. Both characters are interesting examples of feminine strength at a time where they are constantly reminded of their limitations in society. I love Beryl's brash American adventuress confidence, obviously, but am also in love with her not-so-willowy larger physicality. It's refreshing to have a bold character also be boldly sized (especially a female), yet still lauded for her style. Edwina is a more familiar type to those who gravitate towards mysteries in small towns -- spinster living with dog in genteel poverty. However, she is also allowed to grow in confidence and strength through this first adventure.
Things are a bit too convenient at times, and the questioning of suspects is far more bold than I would credit English conversation as going, but the overall mystery (and solution) were satisfactory. I'm adding this to my list of recommended cozy historical mysteries. Wonderful listen on audio, too.