A Comfy Night in with Mastering the Art of French Murder by Colleen Cambridge

ByBeth

Mastering the Art of French Murder – Colleen Cambridge

A charming Parisian mystery with culinary flair

If you love cozy mysteries, historic Paris settings, and a dash of culinary intrigue, Mastering the Art of French Murder by Colleen Cambridge is such a delightful place to start.

Set in post–World War II Paris, this first book in the series follows Tabitha Knight, an American expat trying to build a new life in France. Living in the same building as the iconic Julia Child (yes, that Julia Child), Tabitha finds herself entangled in a murder investigation that mixes food, friendship, and amateur sleuthing in the most charming way.

What I Loved

The Paris setting
Cambridge captures the feel of 1950s Paris beautifully—the markets, the cafés, the sense of reinvention after the war. It feels immersive without becoming overwhelming, which is perfect for a cozy mystery.

The culinary thread
Food is woven throughout the story in a way that feels warm and inviting rather than gimmicky. The nods to French cooking and Julia Child add personality and a unique hook to the mystery.

A classic cozy feel
This book delivers exactly what cozy mystery readers want:

  • An amateur sleuth with heart
  • A tight-knit cast of side characters
  • A contained, satisfying mystery
  • Low gore, high charm

It’s engaging without being dark or gritty—more comfort read than crime thriller.

The Mystery

The murder investigation unfolds at a steady pace, with clues sprinkled thoughtfully throughout. It’s not overly twisty, but it keeps you guessing just enough. The focus stays on character and atmosphere, which makes it feel grounded and enjoyable rather than stressful.

If you prefer high-intensity thrillers, this may feel gentle—but for cozy mystery lovers, that’s part of the appeal.

Final Thoughts

Mastering the Art of French Murder is a warm, smart start to what promises to be a very fun series. It blends historical fiction, culinary charm, and classic amateur sleuth energy into something both comforting and engaging.

Perfect for readers who love:

  • Parisian settings
  • Food-centered fiction
  • Cozy mysteries
  • Historical fiction with a light touch
  • Julia Child references

This one feels like reading with a cup of coffee and a croissant nearby—murder included, but make it charming.

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