_askthebookbug 's review for:

Killingly by Katharine Beutner

3.0

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Killingly by Katharine Beutner is loosely based on the disappearance of Bertha Mellish back in 1897 from Mount Holyoke College. A few characters are real and some have been fictionalised to suit the story. The book begins with Bertha missing and slowly makes its way to reveal the mystery. The story is solely run by two women, Florence Mellish (sister of Bertha) and Agnes (Bertha’s friend). As is expected in 19th century, women were easily pushed to the side and every action by them had severe consequences. Reputation and dignity were treasured and Katharine has cleverly used this facet to structure her novel.

Killingly is a slow burn murder mystery but at its core is a staunch feminist novel. The men who appear in this book are rarely good. The devious Mellish family doctor, Mister Hammond and Florence’s own father, Reverend John play ominous roles. While Florence, Dr Hammond and Detective Higham are restless to find out what exactly happened to Bertha, Agnes suffers with her conscience. Katharine has breathed life to the book through her writing style that aptly suited that period. It is a well researched novel, one that gives an abundance of importance to the characters.

I often felt that the book could have been cut short without the plot being dragged incessantly. There were few queer references but it was never confirmed. The unnecessary letters that were exchanged between some of the characters didn’t do much to the story. In spite of these flaws, I’m quite looking forward to reading Beutner’s future books. If you are looking for a gothic murder novel, this one may just be up your alley.

Thanks for the copy @penguinindia ✨