Review of "Murder Takes a Vacation" by Laura Lippman
As a lifelong fan of mysteries, I was immediately drawn to Laura Lippman’s latest novel, Murder Takes a Vacation. The premise—a sixty-eight-year-old widow entangled in an international art theft conspiracy—promised a refreshing kaleidoscope of themes often overlooked in crime fiction. As someone who treasures complex characters and narrative depth, I was excited to see how Lippman would redefine both the mystery genre and the portrayal of older women.
At the heart of the book is Muriel Blossom, a character I found delightful and inspiring. Lippman skillfully navigates the thin line between realism and depth, presenting Muriel not as merely a quirky elder or a wise sage, but as a woman grappling with grief, newfound wealth, and the manifold adventures that lay ahead. Her size and unapologetic body positivity breathe life into a character who challenges the conventions of female portrayal in literature. Lippman’s portrayal of Muriel, with her sharp observational skills and nuanced friendships, offers a refreshing perspective that resonates with readers of all ages.
The dialectic of Muriel’s relationships is a highlight for me. Her dynamic friendship with the elegant but brittle Pat Siemen captures the complexities of long-term connections, revealing both camaraderie and competition. This rang true for me, as it mirrored the unspoken bonds I share with my own friends. Additionally, Muriel’s complicated feelings for the enigmatic Allan Turner add a delightful layer of romance, turning an initial meet-cute into a plot twist steeped in mystery. Lippman excels at revealing her characters’ layers through engaging dialogue and insightful internal monologues, making them feel achingly real.
The meticulously crafted plot unfolds like a well-tuned clock. The pacing is brisk yet never rushed, with each revelation perfectly timed to maintain suspense. I was particularly captivated by the Seine river cruise setting—much like the closed-room mysteries of Agatha Christie, it amplified the tension as Muriel discovers the web of deceit surrounding her. The stolen Quqnoz artifact serves as a clever plot device, enriching the narrative with historical depth while adding a dash of dark humor.
Lippman’s prose is both accessible and elegant, striking a balance that invites readers into the richly painted Parisian landscapes without overwhelming them. The author’s journalistic background shines through in her crisp, clear language, making complex themes relatable and engaging.
While I thoroughly enjoyed the novel, a few elements raised my eyebrows. The coincidental convergence of characters around Muriel felt a tad contrived, nudging the bounds of believability. Moreover, Muriel’s budding relationship with Paul, while hopeful, left me yearning for more complexity—perhaps a nod to the balance between dreaming and reality.
Overall, Murder Takes a Vacation is a standout novel that challenges ageist stereotypes while providing a thrilling mystery narrative. This book will undoubtedly resonate with those seeking multifaceted characters, engaging plots, and deeper themes around identity, aging, and the intricacies of human relationships. Lippman invites us to embrace the beauty of life’s uncertainties and second chances, making this a must-read for both mystery enthusiasts and those curious about the richness of life at any age.
If you’ve ever found yourself pondering the nuances of friendship or the thrill of unexpected adventure, Muriel Blossom might just become a heroine to celebrate. As I closed the final pages, I felt invigorated by the reminder that it’s never too late to embrace a new chapter in life.