Hello Readers,
Manslaughter Park is the third instalment in the Jane
Austen Murder Mystery series that I've picked up and after falling in love with
Pride and Premeditation and Sense & Second-Degree Murder, I couldn’t resist
diving into this one too.
Out of all three of Tirzah Price’s Austen-inspired murder
mystery retellings, Manslaughter Park was the one I approached with a mix of
excitement and trepidation. I’ve always had a love-hate relationship with
Mansfield Park, so I was curious to see how Price would reimagine Fanny Price’s
story. The dedication, which was to “everyone who thought Fanny Price deserved
better,” immediately won me over—it felt like a perfect nod to the heart of
this retelling.
And I have to say, I loved it. In Manslaughter Park,
Fanny Price is on a mission to uncover the truth behind her uncle’s murder, and
her journey is full of twists and revelations. Along the way, she’s joined by
her friends and some unexpected allies, each adding layers to her investigation
and to her own growth. This YA queer retelling gave me exactly what I didn’t
know I was craving a story that honours the essence of Austen’s characters
while making them feel fresh and relevant for today’s readers.
In Manslaughter Park, Tirzah Price cleverly reimagines
Austen’s original dynamics, shifting the spotlight away from the traditional
male leads and elevating Mary Crawford as Fanny’s unexpected—and utterly
fitting—love interest. It’s a bold move that feels just right for this version
of Fanny, and one that will thrill readers who’ve long wished for a different
romantic outcome in Mansfield Park.
The romance is tender and charming, filled with the
hesitations and heart-racing moments of first love. But, as with the previous
books in the series, it’s the mystery that propels the plot. Fanny’s early
stumbles into amateur sleuthing add charm and humour, and she’s supported by
the ever-enchanting duo of Lizzie and Darcy as the trio follows clues, builds
theories, and races toward a satisfying, twisty conclusion.
I adore how Price takes the beloved characters from
Mansfield Park and breathes new life into them, recontextualizing their
relationships and motivations within the framework of a thrilling murder
mystery. She strikes the perfect balance between Austen’s sharp social
commentary and witty character development, while adding the irresistible
intrigue of a cozy mystery. Fanny gets the story she always deserved one where
she isn’t just a passive observer, but an active, strong heroine uncovering
truths, both about the case and herself.
What’s most impressive is how Price blends all the best
elements of Austen’s work: the careful character development, the social
critique, and the compelling female lead. At the same time, she delivers a
gripping mystery that keeps the pages turning. Manslaughter Park is more than
just a retelling; it’s a coming-of-age story, a commentary on society, and a
murder mystery wrapped into one fantastic package.
Overall, this series has been such a joy to read, and
Manslaughter Park is no exception. It’s fun, smart, and full of surprises—a
perfect blend of Austen’s timeless appeal and the engaging twists of a modern
mystery.
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