Title: Grace Interrupted
Author: Julie Hyzy
First published April 21, 2011
278 pages, Paperback
ISBN: 9780425241905 (ISBN10: 0425241904)
Rating: 3.96
Overview
The peaceful surroundings of Marshfield Manor were disrupted when a group of Civil War re-enactors arrived to set up camp. Their attention to detail was impressive, but then a shocking discovery was made – one of them had been murdered! As the investigation ensues, secrets and tensions rise to the surface, and it’s up to curator Grace Wheaton to navigate this complex and dangerous situation.
Will she be able to identify the killer before they strike again? Find out in Julie Hyzy’s gripping novel, Grace Interrupted.
About the Author
Julie Hyzy is an accomplished author with several accolades under her belt. Her fiction has been recognized with awards such as the Anthony, Barry, Phobos, and Derringer.
Some of her notable works include Virtual Sabotage, The White House Chef Mystery series, The Manor House Mysteries, Deadly Blessings, Deadly Interest, Dead Ringer, Artistic License, and Playing With Matches. If you’re interested in reading any of her books or learning more about her, be sure to visit her website.
Editoral Review
Julie Hyzys mystery novel, Grace Interrupted, holds readers in suspense from beginning to end with its rich plot, tightly woven subplots, and masterful character development. First published on April 21, 2011, Hyzy brilliantly depicts a tale that resonates with cultural significance of modern times.
Hyzys novel follows the story of White House chef, Grace Wheaton, as she goes on a vacation to Italy with her boyfriend, Dr. Joe. Their Italian getaway, however, turns into an unexpected adventure when they become embroiled in the murder investigation of Joes friend.
As they explore the beautiful sights of Italy, Grace soon realizes that the perpetrator is no ordinary murderer, and with the help of her investigative instincts, her friends, and her culinary acumen, she is determined to catch the killer. Hyzys writing style engenders a sense of grounding and emotional connection with her characters.
Throughout the tale, tension between characters and the growing sense of dread are skillfully portrayed, letting readers immerse themselves in the story. The character development of the main protagonist, Grace, is particularly noteworthy.
The author eloquently fleshes out the characters evolution from being reserved to being assertive, thus making Graces actions even more enthralling to follow. In parallel to the masterful character development, the novels depiction of the beautiful yet mysterious Italian landscape is also impressive.
Hyzy brings the rich and textured Italian culture to life in a way that can only happen through firsthand experience, endowing the setting with authenticity. Despite the many strengths, the book has a few weaknesses.
Some of the novels supporting characters lack the depth of their central counterparts, which can be frustrating for the reader. While the book may be classified under mystery fiction, the climactic sequences may feel cliche to some readers who are looking for a fresh take on the genre.
However, these minor critiques are overwhelmed by Hyzys masterful storytelling and her ability to entice readers to the mysterys conclusion. Overall, Grace Interrupted is well-written, well-plotted, and an intriguing read.
Not only a great mystery novel that would captivate both mystery and suspense enthusiasts, but also a perfect book which balances the history and culture of modern-day Italy with a unique insight into the themes of personal growth and the exploration of the unknown. I rate this book 4.5 stars out of 5 because the story and the characters will linger on long after the last page has been read.
