A Review Of Murder After The Matinee By Lorna Snowden

• Publisher: ‎ Matador (13 April 2021)
• Language: ‎ English
• Paperback: ‎ 400 pages
• ISBN-13: ‎ 978-1800461888
• Genre: Murder Mystery

The BookViral Review:

An intriguing and intensely readable murder mystery, Murder After The Matinee is the first book in The Ashdale series by Lorna Snowden and it proves a genuine corker of a read. 

With plenty vying for the reader’s attention Snowden is careful not to sacrifice pace for frivolous detail, ensuring each character’s presence is credible to the story. 

She knows just when to linger and create atmosphere, a sense of place, or sympathy with her characters, instead of falling back on trite clichés and this adds immeasurably to both the quality of her writing and the intricacies of her plot. Whilst wit, poignant turns of phrase and subtle sardonic touches add an abundance of feeling.

With plenty of forward momentum the plot is driven by Snowden’s flair for dialogue and vibrant well-observed characters with none more engaging than her protagonist Lydia Buckley. Charming and cleverly contrasted to the murdered Simon Saxby Jones she’s tenacious and intelligent, bringing an all-important feeling of familiarity that will quickly find favour with Snowden’s readers. Leading them to a corker of an ending and ensuring they stay hooked, but more importantly invested to the very last page,

Refreshingly devoid of trite prosaicisms, Snowden judiciously adds depth with well-considered emotional detail and backstories as secrets are unravelled, bringing a sense of big moments through small events which invariably proves the mark of a good book.

Intelligent, fun and well written, Murder After The Matinee proves a hugely entertaining read that is sure to attract a host of fans to Snowden’s series. It is highly recommended!