Death on the Rhine by Vivian Conroy

A charming mystery with delightful characters, but lacking the twists and turns to keep you guessing until the end.

Death on the Rhine by Vivian Conroy is a cozy mystery that offers a charming setting, but unfortunately, it falls short in the plot department. If you’re a fan of the Amelia Peabody series by Elizabeth Peters or The Maid by Nita Prose, this book will feel somewhat familiar, with its quirky characters and historical backdrop. While Death on the Rhine has its moments, it ultimately doesn’t offer much in terms of surprises or suspense.

The story follows Atalanta, a sharp-witted heroine, as she embarks on a journey through Germany, where she becomes entangled in a mystery involving an old friend and a plot to murder his controlling grandmother. I particularly enjoyed the dynamic between Atalanta and Raoul, the dashing race car driver. Their relationship added a delightful layer to the story, with banter and chemistry that kept things entertaining.

That said, the novel's biggest drawback for me was its predictability. I found myself solving the mystery almost immediately. In fact, I had figured out who the culprit was before any crime was even committed, which significantly dampened the intrigue. The lack of twists and turns made it hard to stay invested in the investigation, and by the time the reveal came, it felt almost anticlimactic.

Overall, Death on the Rhine was just fine. It has some charm and a likable lead character, but the predictable plot left me wanting more. If you’re looking for a light, easy read with some historical flair, this book might suit your tastes, but if you’re after a truly gripping mystery, it may not meet your expectations.

RATING: 2/5