It has been said that there is a novel inside of everyone. I do not know how true this is, except the publishing houses are still able to produce books each year whether digital or print. Bookstores still exist. There are still readers still hungry for words. So, maybe, there is some truth to the saying. I do believe there is a desire that wells inside a person to write. It burns from somewhere deep within. And it is unshakeable. Sometimes a single class or a single book is all it takes to light the fuse or for the bug to bite.

Theodosia Benton is in this class. She knew she wanted to write. The trust her grandfather had set up for her and her brother, Gus, was an obstacle. The trust existed for them to attend law school. If they chose another path, the trust was forfeited. Her brother, Gus, completed his law degree. Theo had tried, but she left law school and went to her brother’s home in Kansas.

Theo found, however, that Gus needed some domestic help. She needed to treat her writing as any other day job. She needed to find an office outside of his house. She found Benders. A bar by night and a café by day. It became a haven for other writers. It was here she met Dan Murdoch. Dan was another writer, but one of success and fame. They quickly formed a friendship, and he became her mentor.

When she finishes her novel, she asks Dan to introduce her to his agent. He refuses saying they aren’t right for her. Dan did not appear at Benders the following morning or throughout the day. Theo tries to contact him but can get no answer. At his house, door is ajar, so she goes in calling for Dan. She slips and falls and, in the darkness, realizes that she has slipped in the blood of the dead Dan Murdock.

The Mystery Writer by Sulari Gentill is a fast paced novel full of twists and turns. It follows the publishing path of Theodosia Benton and her interaction with published author Dan Murdoch. When she is accused of his murder, her brother, Gus Benton, does everything to stay ahead of legal battles to keep Theo out of jail.

I loved this book. The plot was original. It is not the simple murder mystery. Theo gets caught in a web of deception that takes time to untangle. I would recommend this book to anyone looking for a fresh and original mystery. There is some sex and some use of language that may be offensive; however, it is not overused.  This book is suitable for ages 16 and up. This is a top shelf read. Four and a half out of five stars (4.5 out of 5) because of language.

(Be sure to like and subscribe below so you don’t miss new content when it is posted.)

Angela