Book Review: Murder by Memory by Olivia Waite
In a literary landscape brimming with bustling cities and sprawling galaxies, the premise of Murder by Memory (Dorothy Gentleman, #1) effortlessly drew me in like a moth to a cozy flame. Olivia Waite’s foray into an off-earth murder mystery—set on a ship with 10,000 inhabitants—was a bold gamble that had me both excited and slightly apprehensive. Would it be able to balance intrigue with the warmth of cozy storytelling? Spoiler alert: it did, and exceeded my expectations to boot!
Central to Waite’s world is the HMS Fairweather, painted with such lush detail that it feels more like a beloved hometown than a cold spacecraft drifting through the void. I found myself enchanted by the "cozy spaceship" vibes; from the inviting bars to the delightful yarn stores, the ship is a microcosm of community and compassion. It’s a utopia where wealth is regulated, custodians are respected, and innovation blooms at every turn—a ship that beckons for a visit, if not a permanent stay.
One of the most intriguing aspects of Murder by Memory is its exploration of identity and consciousness through the lens of memory. The technology aboard the Fairweather allows individuals to download their memories into books—or even transfer them into new bodies. It’s a remarkable premise: “If our memories make us who we are, what happens if we can extend our memories beyond the limitations of our physical bodies?” This philosophical undercurrent adds depth to the narrative, prompting readers to reflect on their own lives and memories as the plot unfolds.
Speaking of the plot, I was truly impressed with how Waite orchestrates the mystery itself. The crime does not feel arbitrary or contrived; instead, the threads woven throughout the narrative lead to a satisfying, well-earned conclusion. Everything clicks into place, making the reader feel both clever and fulfilled. It’s a refreshing change in a genre where too often the killer seems plucked from thin air!
As for the characters, Dorothy, our sharp-witted, elderly detective, stood out with her unexpected charm. I loved her whimsical marveling at youthful sensations and abilities after waking up in a younger body. Her keen perspective brought a refreshing outlook, and her competence reminded me that age is but a number when it comes to intelligence and resourcefulness. The queernormative world she navigates is just another layer of warmth in the book’s fabric, offering representation in a way that’s integral rather than preachy.
Yet, not everything about this cozy ship was to my taste. The cheeky, semi-drunken ship AI felt slightly overdone and bordered on twee, but thankfully this was a minor hiccup in an otherwise delightful read.
Olivia Waite has truly hit the nail on the head with Murder by Memory. Its harmonious blend of a lively utopian shipworld, a coherent murder mystery, and charming characters made for a reading experience I thoroughly enjoyed. This book is a must-read for fans of Howl’s Moving Castle, Mary Robinette Kowal, and anyone who appreciates a warm, intricately plotted cozy mystery.
As I closed the book, I found myself longing to revisit the Fairweather and its delightful inhabitants. Until such a return is possible, I will eagerly recommend Murder by Memory to friends, fellow readers, and anyone seeking a cozy adventure filled with mystery and thought-provoking themes. This story left me both satisfied and uplifted—an experience I’m grateful to have had.
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