Just Murdered by Katherine Kovacic Narrator: Geraldine Hakewill
Series: Ms Fisher's Modern Murder Mysteries #1
Published by Dreamscape Media on February 9. 2023
Source: NetGalley
Genres: Cozy Mystery, Historical Mystery
Length: 7 hrs 52 mins
Pages: 287
Format: Audiobook
Purchase at Bookshop.org or Audible
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Introducing the fabulous Ms. Peregrine Fisher, niece of the famous Phryne Fisher, as seen on 7plus and Acorn TV.
Peregrine Fisher is unexpectedly summoned to a meeting of the Adventuresses' Club of the Antipodes, where she learns some incredible news.
When Adventuress Florence Astor is accused of murder, Peregrine jumps at the chance to help on the case. Detective James Steed, initially dismissive, quickly finds Peregrine's flair for investigating and headstrong nature leave him little choice.
A second shocking death occurs and Detective Steed's boss, Inspector Sparrow, demands the case be brought to a close with suspicious speed.
With Sparrow issuing threats, time is running out for Peregrine. It seems she's set herself an impossible task, but then, as Detective Steed says, 'never underestimate a woman named Fisher'.
Based on the screenplay by Deb Cox.
I have never seen the tv Mss Fisher’s Modern Murder Mysteries tv show, but Just Murdered is based on the screenplay of the first episode. In 1964, a somewhat aimless Peregrine Fisher discovers she has an inheritance waiting for her to claim in Melbourne. Which is good, since she just got fired from the latest in her string of jobs. She arrives at the Adventuress’ Club and finds out that she had an aunt, Phryne Fisher, also an Adventuress, who has been missing for six months. Phyrne had left instructions that her sister, Pegegrine’s deceased mother, be contacted in the event of Phryne’s disappearance or death, which is why Peregrine was sought out to claim Phyrne’s things. Almost immediately one of the adventuresses is accused of murdering a model and Peregrine is determined to help clear her name.
This book was a lot of fun. Peregrine is self-assured and her variety of past jobs gives her random skills and knowledge that come in handy. She doesn’t allow anyone to tell her what to do but can take advice. The detective on the case, James Steed, is hesitant about her “assistance” but has to admit that she does have good insights. There’s also some sexual tension between the two of them, but it adds to the book’s fun without distracting from the mystery.
The mystery was put together well, with plenty of clues and red herrings. There are enough suspects to keep you guessing.
I also really enjoyed the 60s setting. First of all, the fashions are fun. But the book also glances at the social movements of the time, women’s rights, and changing moral expectations.
I listened to the audio and thought the narrator did a great job, which makes sense since she plays Peregrine in the tv shows. She has the voice and attitude down pat.
Just Murdered was fun and light and a good break. I hope there’s another in the series. And maybe I should break down and get Acorn TV.
About Katherine Kovacic
Katherine Kovacic was a veterinarian but preferred training and having fun with dogs to taking their temperatures. She seized the chance to return to study and earned an MA, followed by a PhD in Art History. Katherine spends her spare time writing, dancing and teaching other people’s dogs to ride skateboards.
A research geek, Katherine is currently fired up by the history of human relationships with animals, particularly as they appear in art. Her first book, The Portrait of Molly Dean, was shortlisted for a Ned Kelly Award for best first fiction.
Katherine lives in suburban Melbourne.