Book Review: Death of A Songbird by Yvonne Crowe

*I received a complimentary copy of this book, and I’m leaving a voluntary review*

In Death of a songbird we follow Lina, a Rome-based news reporter, who after hearing about the death of famous Romani folksinger Kezia, tries to get the scoop on the story. The case seems very open and shut, and Lina is among the first on the scene, definitely a big win for her career.

But of course, the case isn’t as open and shut as first thought. How did Kezia die? And who killed her? Was the Romani people involved, and why are they so secretive? As Lina delves deeper and deeper into the beautiful mysteries of Rome, the case only grows darker, and darker.

This reads very much like a Dan Brown novel (of whom I’m a huge fan), except it’s prettier and more romanticized. Set in Rome, Crowe uses a lot of Italian in her writing to emphasize the place and culture. At times, a little bit confusing for me (who doesn’t speak a word of Italian), but mostly just beautiful. The inclusion of the Romani culture is both mysterious and educational because I love reading about other cultures and histories any day, and it works so well in the frame of the story. It adds layers, intrigue.

This is a well-woven mystery novel, and though it could ideally done with another round of edits to ensure a tighter grip on the reader, the story is thrilling and captivating nonetheless.

Check out Yvonne Crowe and many of her books on Goodreads.