A Murder Is Going Down

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A Murder Is Going Down

by Kate Emery

Heidi's brother Felix is dead, and honestly? She's not exactly heartbroken. Fresh off an epic betrayal back home in Perth, and a miserable exchange trip, she's mostly just bored and directionless. Enter Patrick, her late brother's wisecracking brother-in-law, who convinces her that two unemployed teenagers with too much free time are perfectly qualified to solve a murder. What unfolds is a delightfully witty and genuinely intriguing mystery, wrapped in a lighthearted, conversational tone. You'll find yourself laughing out loud at Heidi and Patrick's snarky banter and unexpected camaraderie as they stumble through family secrets and questionable leads. This is for readers who love a good puzzle, but also want to feel like they're hanging out with a couple of charmingly flawed, funny friends. It's a mystery that's as much about growing up as it is about finding a killer.

10 Books similar to 'A Murder Is Going Down'

If you enjoyed the clever banter and unexpected camaraderie in A Murder Is Going Down, you'll find plenty to love in these recommendations. We've gathered books that share that same delightful blend of lighthearted humor and genuine intrigue, often featuring amateur detectives who stumble into solving crimes. Whether it's the charmingly quirky characters, the focus on uncovering hidden family secrets within a close-knit community, or simply the comforting, witty narrative voice, these titles offer a similar escape. They all capture that distinct cozy crime feeling where the puzzle is just as enjoyable as the company you keep while solving it.

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The Thursday Murder Club
The Thursday Murder Club

by Richard Osman

This book shares the charming, witty tone and ensemble cast appeal of 'A Murder Is Going Down,' featuring a group of elderly amateur sleuths who bring their unique perspectives to solving crimes in a cozy, community-focused setting. Readers will appreciate the clever plotting and engaging character dynamics.

Death by Darjeeling
Death by Darjeeling

by Laura Childs

Fans of 'A Murder Is Going Down' will find similar delight in this series, which also features an amateur sleuth with a unique profession (tea shop owner) in a charming small-town setting. The focus on local color, intriguing mysteries, and a strong female lead aligns perfectly.

The Sweetness at the Bottom of the Pie
The Sweetness at the Bottom of the Pie

by Alan Bradley

This book offers a delightful and quirky take on the amateur sleuth genre, much like Kate Emery's work, but with a precocious young protagonist. Readers will enjoy the clever mysteries, the unique narrative voice, and the charming, slightly eccentric English village setting.

Still Life
Still Life

by Louise Penny

While perhaps a bit more literary, this book captures the essence of a close-knit community grappling with a mysterious death, echoing the small-town intrigue of 'A Murder Is Going Down.' The deep character development and atmospheric setting will appeal to readers who enjoy a thoughtful, character-driven mystery.

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Booked for Death

by Lorna Barrett

With its focus on a bookstore owner turned amateur detective in a quaint town, this series offers a very similar reading experience to 'A Murder Is Going Down.' Readers will enjoy the cozy atmosphere, the engaging puzzles, and the strong sense of community that permeates the narrative.

The No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency
The No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency

by Alexander McCall Smith

This series offers a unique and heartwarming take on the detective genre, sharing 'A Murder Is Going Down''s focus on community, gentle problem-solving, and a strong, compassionate female lead. Readers will appreciate the charming narrative voice and the optimistic approach to human foibles.

Curiosity Thrilled the Cat

by Miranda James

This book provides another excellent example of a cozy mystery featuring an amateur sleuth with a unique profession (a librarian) and a charming small-town setting. Fans of 'A Murder Is Going Down' will appreciate the engaging mystery, the quirky characters, and the comforting atmosphere.

The Unexpected Mrs. Pollifax
The Unexpected Mrs. Pollifax

by Dorothy Gilman

This series introduces an unlikely amateur spy/sleuth, an elderly widow, who brings a charming, witty, and adventurous spirit to her missions, much like the engaging protagonist in 'A Murder Is Going Down.' Readers will enjoy the lighthearted tone combined with genuine intrigue and a strong sense of character.

Aunt Dimity's Death
Aunt Dimity's Death

by Nancy Atherton

This charming series blends cozy mystery with a touch of the supernatural and a strong focus on family secrets and a quaint English village. Readers who enjoy the atmospheric setting and the gentle, character-driven mysteries of 'A Murder Is Going Down' will find much to love here.

The Cat Who Could Read Backwards
The Cat Who Could Read Backwards

by Lilian Jackson Braun

This classic cozy mystery series features a journalist and his intelligent Siamese cats solving crimes, offering a similar blend of intriguing puzzles, quirky characters, and a comforting narrative style to 'A Murder Is Going Down.' The unique animal companions add a charming element.