A review by bethspikin
The Butterfly Women by Madeleine Cleary

5.0

As someone who lives in Melbourne, I was instantly drawn to this book- a Historical Fiction novel set in my own city during the 1800s. It’s not every day you come across a book that brings the streets you know to life in a completely different era, and Madeleine does it with such vivid detail, I could see how well researched this setting was, AND it’s based on a true story about Madeleines ancestors! Say no more, I knew I’d be reading it. That alone was enough to pique my interest, BUT (!!) when I discovered it was also a murder mystery?  ARE YOU KIDDING ME?! SOLD. IMMEDIATELY. 

I’m a self-proclaimed detective when it comes to books and TV. I nit pick every single detail, every single slightly off phrase said by each character and begin building them all a case individually in my head from beginning to end — so this was definitely the book for me! This story had me doing exactly that from the very first chapter. While the mystery in this story isn’t a generally predictable one, once I put on my metaphorical trench coat and did my sleuthing, I had a hunch early on—and let’s just say, my inner detective was buzzing (and right 👀) It was gripping, clever, and I absolutely did not want to put this book down! I’m now thinking of quitting my day job and becoming a real-life detective 🕵️‍♀️ 

I fell in love with all 4 main characters (the ones with POVs) and made such an emotional connection with all of them, that this book was so emotionally impactful! Had me tearing up at times, as I felt like I was right there with them, and my heart was breaking for these women! 

The pacing was fast, the stakes high, and my nails were well and truly bitten! I was turning pages eagerly, needing to know what happened next while simultaneously never wanting it to end. The blend of historical fiction, mystery and drama (with a sprinkle. of romance) was done perfectly 😍

The attention to historical detail, character depth, and character development was done brilliantly! If you’re a fan of immersive settings, multilayered characters, and suspenseful plots, do me a favour and read this book (but on the condition that you must absolutely message me the whole way through AND when you finish— I’ll need your thoughts!) 

So with that being said, PLEASE go pick up a copy of this book! You will not regret it! I genuinely believe that everyone could enjoy this book! 🦋🕵️‍♀️