The Paris Mystery is a cosy crime novel set in 1930's Paris, on the cusp of WWII. It is the first book in Kirsty Manning's Charlotte 'Charlie' James series.
Charlie is sent to cover a ball held by socialites Lord & Lady Ashworth. When a prominent Parisian is found murdered in the grounds of the ball, Charlie seizes the opportunity to interview attendees hoping this will be the scoop that will prove to her boss that she can do this job.
The Paris Mystery is an enthralling mystery. I had no idea who had murdered the victim and as Charlie, together with the police, interview each person we find that many people disliked the man enough to kill him.
An eclectic group of characters are introduced from many different countries that make up the Parisian community.
Kirsty Manning lusciously describes the beautiful gowns worn by Charlie and her friend Violet and evokes the sense of a flamboyant Paris before the hardships of war. The food, clothes and extravagant balls are all enchantingly described to bring the setting alive.
As The Paris Mystery is the first in a series the pace is slow as the reader gets to know Charlie and the circumstances that led her to Paris.
Kirsty Manning takes her readers to 1930's Paris, to a world of luscious gowns, extravagant balls, illicit affairs, blackmail, murder and spirited females.
My rating 3 / 5 ⭐⭐⭐
Publisher: Allen & Unwin
Publication date: 30th August 2022
Series: Charlotte 'Charlie' James #1
Pages: 320
Source: Own copy
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