A Murder in Time Book Summary - A Murder in Time Book explained in key points

A Murder in Time summary

Brief summary

A Murder in Time by Julie McElwain is a captivating blend of mystery and time travel. When modern-day FBI agent Kendra Donovan gets transported to 19th century England, she must use her skills to solve a murder and find a way back home.

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    A Murder in Time
    Summary of key ideas

    Unexpected Time Travel

    In A Murder in Time by Julie McElwain, we meet Kendra Donovan, a brilliant FBI agent who finds herself in a 19th-century English castle after a failed mission. Kendra, recovering from a gunshot wound, is on a mission to avenge her team's death and eliminate the man responsible. However, her plans go awry when she accidentally travels back in time to 1815.

    Struggling to comprehend her situation, Kendra is mistaken for a servant and forced to adapt to the customs and lifestyle of the Regency era. Despite her initial shock and confusion, she quickly realizes that she must navigate this new world if she is to survive and find a way back to her own time.

    Unraveling a Murder Mystery

    As Kendra adjusts to her new life, she becomes embroiled in a murder mystery when a young girl is found dead on the castle grounds. Driven by her investigative instincts, Kendra uses her modern knowledge and forensic skills to examine the crime scene and gather evidence. She soon discovers that the murder is part of a series of killings, and the castle is harboring a dangerous serial killer.

    Despite the challenges of the time period, Kendra's determination and intelligence help her gain the trust of the castle's residents, including the enigmatic Duke of Aldridge. She forms an unlikely alliance with the Duke and his nephew, Alec, as they work together to uncover the killer's identity and prevent further bloodshed.

    Confronting Societal Norms

    Throughout her investigation, Kendra faces numerous obstacles due to the strict societal norms of the 19th century. Her independent nature and unconventional behavior often draw suspicion and disapproval from the people around her. However, Kendra refuses to conform, challenging the gender roles and expectations of her time period.

    Despite the difficulties, Kendra's modern perspective proves to be an advantage in solving the murder mystery. Her knowledge of forensic science, deductive reasoning, and criminal profiling allows her to make connections and uncover crucial evidence that eludes the local authorities.

    Unmasking the Killer

    As the investigation progresses, Kendra and her allies face increasing danger from the cunning and ruthless killer. The tension mounts as they race against time to prevent another murder and bring the culprit to justice. In a thrilling climax, Kendra confronts the killer and uncovers their shocking identity.

    Ultimately, Kendra's time in the past proves to be a transformative experience. She not only survives in a challenging environment but also makes a significant impact by solving a murder case that had confounded the people of her time. As the first book in a series, A Murder in Time sets the stage for Kendra's further adventures in the past, blending historical fiction with a gripping murder mystery.

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    What is A Murder in Time about?

    A Murder in Time by Julie McElwain is a gripping blend of historical fiction and mystery. When modern-day FBI agent Kendra Donovan is thrown back in time to 1815, she finds herself in the midst of a murder investigation at a lavish English estate. With her knowledge of forensic science and a determination to solve the case, Kendra must navigate the unfamiliar customs of the past and uncover the truth before it's too late.

    A Murder in Time Review

    A Murder in Time (2016) takes readers on a thrilling journey as a FBI agent finds herself transported back to the 19th century to solve a murder mystery. Here's why this book is worth picking up:

    • Featuring a unique blend of mystery and time travel elements, it offers an intriguing and fresh take on the traditional crime genre.
    • The complex characters and their interactions across different time periods add depth and richness to the plot, keeping readers engaged throughout.
    • With unexpected twists and turns, the story unfolds at a fast pace, ensuring it never becomes predictable or dull.

    Who should read A Murder in Time?

    • Readers who enjoy historical mysteries with a touch of sci-fi
    • Those who appreciate strong and intelligent female protagonists
    • People who are fascinated by the idea of time travel and its potential consequences

    About the Author

    Julie McElwain is an American author known for her historical mystery novels. With a background in journalism and a passion for history, McElwain combines her skills to create captivating stories. Her debut novel, 'A Murder in Time', introduces readers to FBI agent Kendra Donovan, who time travels to the 19th century. McElwain's meticulous research and engaging storytelling have earned her a dedicated following among fans of both historical fiction and crime thrillers.

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    A Murder in Time FAQs 

    What is the main message of A Murder in Time?

    The main message of A Murder in Time highlights the complexities of solving a murder across different time periods.

    How long does it take to read A Murder in Time?

    Reading A Murder in Time may vary in time, but typically it takes a few hours. The Blinkist summary can be read in under 15 minutes.

    Is A Murder in Time a good book? Is it worth reading?

    A Murder in Time is definitely worth reading due to its engaging storyline and intriguing mix of history and mystery.

    Who is the author of A Murder in Time?

    The author of A Murder in Time is Julie McElwain.

    What to read after A Murder in Time?

    If you're wondering what to read next after A Murder in Time, here are some recommendations we suggest:
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