Robert Thorogood, creator of the hit BBC One series Death in Paradise, brings his characteristic charm and wit to the picturesque town of Marlow in this engaging first installment of what has become the successful Marlow Murder Club series. The novel introduces us to an unlikely trio of amateur sleuths led by the indomitable Judith Potts, a 77-year-old crossword compiler who refuses to let age define her capabilities.
The Protagonist: A Breath of Fresh Air
Judith Potts is perhaps one of the most refreshing protagonists to grace the crime fiction genre in recent years. Living in her Arts and Crafts mansion by the Thames, she spends her days creating crosswords for The Times, enjoying evening swims in the nude, and maintaining a strictly regimented whisky schedule. What makes Judith particularly engaging is how Thorogood subverts traditional elderly character tropes—she’s neither a sweet old lady nor a grumpy pensioner, but rather a complex, independent woman with sharp wit and unwavering determination.
The Dynamic Trio
The strength of the novel lies in its character dynamics. Joining Judith are Suzie Harris, a down-to-earth dog walker with hidden depths, and Becks Starling, the vicar’s wife trying to break free from the constraints of her role. Their unlikely friendship forms the emotional core of the story, with each woman bringing unique skills and perspectives to their investigation.
Plot and Pacing: A Three-Act Murder Mystery
The story kicks off when Judith witnesses the murder of her neighbor Stefan Dunwoody while swimming in the Thames. When the police dismiss her claims, she takes matters into her own hands. The plot thickens with the murder of taxi driver Iqbal Kassam, followed by the death of former Olympian Liz Curtis. Thorogood masterfully weaves these seemingly unconnected murders into a complex tapestry of deceit, revenge, and long-buried secrets.
Writing Style and Structure
Thorogood’s experience in television writing shines through in his crisp dialogue and well-paced scenes. The author excels at creating tension while maintaining a light touch that prevents the story from becoming too dark. His description of Marlow is particularly noteworthy, painting a vivid picture of this Thames-side town with its Victorian suspension bridge, ancient church, and tight-knit community.
Series Evolution
The Marlow Murder Club has spawned three subsequent books:
Death Comes to Marlow
The Queen of Poisons
Murder on the Marlow Belle
Each installment builds upon the strong foundation established in this first book, further developing the friendship between the three main characters while presenting them with increasingly complex mysteries to solve.
Strengths and Notable Elements
Character Development
The three main characters are well-rounded and distinct
Supporting characters are memorable and serve the plot effectively
Relationships evolve naturally throughout the story
Setting
Marlow comes alive through detailed descriptions
The river Thames acts almost as another character
Small-town dynamics are portrayed authentically
Mystery Elements
Multiple layers of intrigue
Clever misdirection
Satisfying resolution
Areas for Improvement
While the novel is largely successful, there are some aspects that could have been stronger:
The initial pacing can feel somewhat slow for readers accustomed to more action-packed thrillers
Some of the coincidences stretching credibility
The police’s initial dismissal of Judith’s witness account might seem implausible to some readers
Comparisons and Context
The Marlow Murder Club fits within the tradition of British cozy mysteries while bringing fresh elements to the genre. It shares DNA with series like Richard Osman’s Thursday Murder Club but carves out its own unique identity through its focus on female friendship and its exploration of small-town dynamics.
Impact and Legacy
This first installment has established a strong foundation for what has become a beloved series. The success of The Marlow Murder Club has demonstrated the continuing appetite for crime fiction that balances mystery with humor and heart.
Conclusion: A Strong Start to a Promising Series
The Marlow Murder Club is a delightful addition to the British mystery genre. While it may not revolutionize the format, it executes its premise with style and charm. The novel’s greatest strength lies in its characters—particularly in Judith Potts, whose wit and determination make her a memorable addition to the pantheon of amateur detectives.
Recommended for:
Fans of traditional British mysteries
Readers who enjoy strong female characters
Those who appreciate mysteries that balance humor with suspense
Anyone looking for a fresh take on the amateur detective genre
Robert Thorogood has created something special with The Marlow Murder Club – a mystery that manages to be both comforting and surprising, traditional and fresh. While not perfect, it’s a highly enjoyable read that leaves readers eager to follow Judith, Suzie, and Becks on their next adventure.