3.68
Part of "Susanna, Lady Appleton" series
"Face Down in the Marrow-Bone Pie" by Kathy Lynn Emerson is a delightful addition to the cozy mystery genre, featuring the endearing protagonist, Mistress Josie Plummer. Set in the 16th century, this historical whodunit takes readers on a journey through the quaint town of Kent, where nothing is as it seems. Emerson masterfully weaves historical facts with a suspenseful plot, creating an engaging and educational read. The story begins when Josie, a gentlewoman turned sleuth, stumbles upon a murder scene at a local inn. The victim, a traveling player, is discovered face down in a marrow-bone pie, and Josie cannot resist the urge to investigate. As the story unfolds, Josie's inquisitive nature and sharp wit lead her to uncover a web of secrets and lies hidden within the town's seemingly peaceful facade. Along the way, she encounters a cast of eccentric characters, each with their own motives and alibis, making it difficult for Josie to discern the truth. Emerson's attention to detail and richly descriptive language bring the 16th century to life, immersing readers in a world of horse-drawn carriages, grand feasts, and medieval fashion. At the same time, she manages to maintain a lighthearted tone, making the novel accessible and enjoyable for readers of all ages. Overall, "Face Down in the Marrow-Bone Pie" is a charming and entertaining mystery that combines history, humor, and suspense in a delightful package. Fans of Agatha Christie and Elizabeth Peters will appreciate Emerson's clever plot twists and engaging characters, making this a must-read for any cozy mystery enthusiast...
Deborah Blum
The Poisoner's Handbook
Fans of Emerson's use of historical detail and interest in forensics will appreciate 'The Poisoner's Handbook' by Deborah Blum, a nonfiction account of the early days of forensic science and the development of toxicology.
Learn MoreLouise Penny
A Rule Against Murder
Fans of Kathy Lynn Emerson's 'Face Down in the Marrow-Bone Pie' will enjoy Louise Penny's 'A Rule Against Murder', as both books feature complex mysteries set in the past and well-developed protagonists with a knack for solving crimes.
Learn MoreUmberto Eco
The Name of the Rose
If you enjoyed the historical setting and intricate plot of 'Face Down in the Marrow-Bone Pie', you'll love 'The Name of the Rose' by Umberto Eco, a medieval murder mystery with philosophical and theological themes.
Learn MoreJosephine Tey
The Daughter of Time
Fans of historical mysteries will appreciate 'The Daughter of Time' by Josephine Tey, in which a modern-day detective investigates the mystery surrounding the death of the Princes in the Tower, similar to the historical intrigue in Emerson's book.
Learn MoreDiane Chamberlain
The Silent Sister
Readers who enjoyed the themes of family secrets and complicated relationships in 'Face Down in the Marrow-Bone Pie' will appreciate 'The Silent Sister' by Diane Chamberlain, a contemporary mystery with similar themes.
Learn MoreSusanna Kearsley
The Winter Sea
Fans of Emerson's blend of historical and contemporary settings will enjoy 'The Winter Sea' by Susanna Kearsley, a time-slip novel that explores the Jacobite uprising in Scotland and its modern-day repercussions.
Learn MoreDiane Setterfield
The Thirteenth Tale
Readers who enjoyed the gothic atmosphere and themes of storytelling in 'Face Down in the Marrow-Bone Pie' will appreciate 'The Thirteenth Tale' by Diane Setterfield, a modern gothic novel with a focus on the power of stories.
Learn MoreKatherine Howe
The Physick Book of Deliverance Dane
Fans of Emerson's blend of historical and supernatural elements will enjoy 'The Physick Book of Deliverance Dane' by Katherine Howe, a novel that explores the Salem witch trials and the legacy of witchcraft in contemporary America.
Learn MoreDonna Tartt
The Secret History
Readers who enjoyed the themes of secrets and betrayal in 'Face Down in the Marrow-Bone Pie' will appreciate 'The Secret History' by Donna Tartt, a novel that explores the dark side of a group of classics students at a small college.
Learn MoreCaleb Carr
The Alienist
Readers who enjoyed the historical setting and focus on forensics in 'Face Down in the Marrow-Bone Pie' will appreciate 'The Alienist' by Caleb Carr, a thriller set in the late 19th century that follows a team of investigators as they track down a serial killer in New York City.
Learn MoreElizabeth George Speare
The Witch of Blackbird Pond
Readers who enjoyed the historical setting and themes of outsiders and societal expectations in 'Face Down in the Marrow-Bone Pie' will appreciate 'The Witch of Blackbird Pond' by Elizabeth George Speare, a Newbery Medal-winning novel set in 17th century Connecticut.
Learn More