A Novel Murder by E. C. Nevin review

About The Book

Book: A Novel Murder
Author: E. C. Nevin
Standalone or Series: Standalone
Publisher: Zaffre
Publication Date (UK): 19th June 2025

My Review

Ok, so the premise of this one is so up my street. A Novel Murder revolves around author Jane; she’s attending the Killer Lines crime fiction festival and having a rather rubbish time of it. I mean, she’s already had to fork out for her own ticket due to a fumble by her publishers organising her author pass. Then as she tried to hand over a copy of her book, she accidentally pulled out a tampon from her bag alongside it… But honestly, that’s the least of her problems, she’s snuck into the popup bookshop to arrange her own novels into a prime position when she discovers a body. That’s right, there has been a genuine IRL murder at the fictional murder festival!

Anyone who has attended any festivals, especially Theakstons Old Peculier Crime Writing Festival, should buzz off this one. There’s the beer tent. The pints of “Badger’s Foot”. The murder mystery lunch. The fancy awards. Not to mention the amazing panel names including “Good Friends Help Bury the Body: the role of friendship in crime fiction” and “Crime in Heels: the rise of the female gangster“.

A funny and charming debut. Plus, spredges fans make sure to check out the stunning indie bookshop edition. Now all that’s left is to figure out what I’m going to wear next month for Theakstons that isn’t a floral dress or white trainers…

Thank you to Zaffre for providing me with a proof copy in order to review.