You know that feeling when you sink into a perfectly made bed, crisp sheets tucked just so, not a wrinkle in sight? That’s the sensation I got cracking open Nita Prose’s “The Mystery Guest.” It’s a return to the world of her blockbuster debut “The Maid,” and oh boy, does it feel good to be back at the Regency Grand Hotel.
This time around, our favorite fastidious maid Molly Gray has risen through the ranks to become Head Maid. But wouldn’t you know it, just as everything’s coming up roses (perfectly arranged in a lobby vase, no doubt), a famous mystery author drops dead right in the middle of the hotel’s fancy new tearoom. Talk about a party foul.
A Cozy Mystery with Bite
Now, I’ll admit, I was a little worried going in. Sequels can be tricky business, especially when the first book was such a runaway hit. But Prose (is that her real name? It’s too perfect) manages to recreate the magic while giving us something fresh.
This isn’t just a retread of “The Maid.” Molly’s grown, but she’s still delightfully Molly. Her literal-mindedness and devotion to cleanliness remain endearing quirks, not gimmicks. And the mystery this time? It’s got layers, people. We’re talking secrets buried deeper than the dust bunnies under my couch (don’t judge me, we can’t all be Molly).
The Cast: Familiar Faces and Fresh Blood
We’ve got returning favorites like Juan Manuel (Molly’s dreamy boyfriend) and Mr. Preston (the kindly doorman with more to him than meets the eye). But the new additions really spice things up:
- Lily: A shy Maid-in-Training who might know more than she’s letting on.
- Ms. Sharpe: The victim’s mysteriously aloof secretary.
- The LAMBS: A hilarious group of overzealous mystery novel fangirls.
And of course, there’s our victim, J.D. Grimthorpe. He might be dead, but his presence looms large over the whole story. Turns out Molly has a connection to the famous author that goes way back. Color me intrigued!
The Plot: Twists, Turns, and Tarnished Silver
Prose weaves a clever mystery here. Just when you think you’ve got it figured out, she throws another curveball. I found myself jotting down theories in the margins like some wannabe Hercule Poirot. (Spoiler alert: I was wrong. Multiple times.)
But it’s not just about whodunit. The book delves into Molly’s past, giving us glimpses of her childhood and the grandmother who shaped her. These flashbacks add depth to Molly’s character and tie into the present-day mystery in surprising ways.
More Than Just a Mystery
What elevates “The Mystery Guest” beyond a simple whodunit is its exploration of bigger themes. Prose tackles issues of class, the invisible labor of service workers, and the ways trauma can shape us. But it never feels preachy—these ideas are woven seamlessly into the story.
There’s also a lovely thread about found family and the bonds we form with our coworkers. The staff of the Regency Grand feels like a dysfunctional but ultimately loving little community. It made me want to high-five my barista next time I get coffee (is that weird?).
Prose’s Prose: A Stylistic Treat
Nita Prose has a knack for voice. Molly’s narration is a delight—precise, sometimes naive, but always genuine. There’s a musicality to the writing that makes it a joy to read. I found myself reading passages out loud just to savor the rhythm of the sentences.
And can we talk about the humor? This book had me snort-laughing on the subway (sorry, fellow commuters). Molly’s literal interpretations of idioms are comedy gold. But there’s also a subtler wit running throughout that keeps things light even when the subject matter gets dark.
A Few Wrinkles in the Sheets
Look, no book is perfect (except maybe in Molly’s world). There were a couple of moments where the pacing dragged a bit, particularly in the middle section. And one or two of the red herrings felt a smidge too obvious.
But these are minor quibbles in an otherwise thoroughly enjoyable read. Like a classy hotel, a few imperfections just add character.
The Verdict: Check In ASAP
“The Mystery Guest” is that rare sequel that might actually be better than its predecessor. It’s got all the charm of “The Maid” with added depth, a more intricate mystery, and character growth that feels earned.
If you loved “The Maid,” this is an absolute must-read. And if you’re new to Molly’s world? You could start here, but why deprive yourself of the full experience? Go read “The Maid” first, then treat yourself to this delightful second helping.
Nita Prose has crafted another winner. It’s cozy without being cloying, clever without being convoluted, and heartwarming without being saccharine. I, for one, am hoping for many more stays at the Regency Grand.
Now if you’ll excuse me, I suddenly have an urge to go alphabetize my spice rack and iron my sheets. Molly would be proud.
For Fans Of…
“The Thursday Murder Club” by Richard Osman
Agatha Christie’s Hercule Poirot series
“The No. 1 Ladies’ Detective Agency” by Alexander McCall Smith
“Eleanor Oliphant Is Completely Fine” by Gail Honeyman
A Final Thought
You know, there’s something comforting about a good mystery novel. In a world that often feels chaotic and unpredictable, there’s satisfaction in knowing that by the last page, all will be revealed. Everything will be tidied up, every loose end neatly tucked in (Molly would approve).
“The Mystery Guest” delivers that satisfaction in spades. But it also reminds us that life isn’t always so neat. Sometimes the most interesting stories are found in the messy bits, the imperfections, and the dust we sweep under the rug.
So here’s to Molly Gray, champion of cleanliness and solver of mysteries. May her mop bucket always be full and her deductive skills remain sharp. I, for one, can’t wait to see what she gets up to next.
Now, if you’ll excuse me, I have some vacuuming to do. What? No, I’m not procrastinating writing this review. I just… really need to clean. Molly would understand.
