Title: Murder, Plain and Simple
Author: Isabella Alan
First published September 3, 2013
347 pages, Mass Market Paperback
ISBN: 9780451413635 (ISBN10: 0451413636)
Rating: 3.97
Overview
Isabella Alan’s debut novel, Murder, Plain and Simple, introduces us to Angela Braddock. After inheriting her late aunt’s beautiful Amish quilt shop, Angela decides to leave behind her career and broken engagement for a fresh start in Holmes County, Ohio.
Fitting in with the predominantly Amish community proves to be a challenge, but Angela’s aunt’s quilting circle welcomes her with open arms as she prepares to reopen Running Stitch. On the day of the grand reopening, everything seems to be going well until Angela finds the body of an ornery Amish woodworker, Joseph, in her storeroom the next morning.
With evidence suggesting that she may be the killer, Angela sets out to find the real culprit before the local sheriff can arrest her. However, as she delves deeper into the investigation, she discovers that nothing in the small Amish community is as plain as it seems.
Join Angela as she uncovers the truth behind Joseph’s murder and navigates the complexities of life in a small Amish town.
About the Author
Amanda Flower, who goes by the pen name Isabella Alan, is a mystery writer who has been nominated for an Agatha Award. Amanda’s love for writing began in elementary school when she read a story to her sixth grade classmates.
Her humorous description of being stranded on a Ferris wheel had everyone laughing, and she realized then that writing was her passion. Her first mystery novel, Maid of Murder, was nominated for an Agatha Award for Best First Novel.
When she’s not writing, Amanda works as an academic librarian at a college in Cleveland.
Editoral Review
Isabella Alan’s “Murder, Plain and Simple” is a cozy mystery novel published on September 3, 2013. The novel revolves around an Amish quilt shop owner, Angie Braddock, who finds herself entangled in a murder investigation.
Author Isabella Alan is a pseudonym for Amanda Flower, a renowned and acclaimed writer of cozy mysteries. Cozy mysteries are a sub-genre of mystery novels that focus on solving a crime while creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.
“Murder, Plain and Simple” fits this genre perfectly as the author masterfully balances the suspense and intrigue of a murder investigation with the heartwarming community spirit of the Amish. At its core, “Murder, Plain and Simple” is a story about the power of human connections and the lengths we go to for the people we care about.
Angie Braddock is a relatable and likable character who is driven by a sense of justice and compassion. When her neighbor is found dead, she puts everything on the line to help the local police department solve the case.
The novel is set in the quaint and picturesque Amish country of Ohio. Author Isabella Alan does an excellent job of painting a vivid picture of the setting, transporting the reader into the heart of the Amish community.
The descriptions of the baking, quilting, and other activities of the Amish way of life are a delight to read. The plot moves along at a steady pace, keeping the reader engaged without being overwhelming.
One of the strengths of “Murder, Plain and Simple” is how it addresses cultural and societal issues without overwhelming the reader. Alan touches on topics such as mental health, forgiveness, and the dangers of gossip.
The storylines are thought-provoking, but the author never sacrifices the integrity of the plot to make a point. Isabella Alan’s writing is crisp and engaging, and her character development is excellent.
The supporting cast of characters – including Angie’s best friend and the local police chief – is well-rounded and adds depth to the story. The novel’s conclusion is satisfying and ties up all loose ends, leaving the reader fulfilled but eager for more.
One criticism of “Murder, Plain and Simple” is that the resolution feels slightly rushed. The pacing leading up to the ending is well-done, but the conclusion itself could have benefitted from a few more pages to unpack the implications of the reveal.
Overall, “Murder, Plain, and Simple” is an excellent read for fans of cozy mysteries and those looking for a heartwarming, engaging story. The characters are relatable, and the setting is charming.
The themes of forgiveness and community make the novel timeless, and the author’s writing is superb. I highly recommend this book to anyone looking for a thoughtful, entertaining read.
4/5 stars.
