Murder in Miniature is the second historical cozy mystery to feature miniaturist Mrs. Maple Bishop, written by Katie Tietjen. Released 23rd Sept. 2025 by Crooked Lane, it's 288 pages and is available in hardcover, paperback, audio, and ebook formats. It's worth noting that the ebook format has a handy interactive table of contents as well as interactive links.
This is a solidly plotted, character driven historical mystery set in 1947; with post WW2 still a recent memory, in rural Vermont. MC Maple is intelligent, possibly neurodiverse (she's quite socially inept), and works as a miniaturist as well as a special consultant to the police, recreating crime scenes.
The book is loosely written around a framework of real historical people and events, quite skillfully blending fiction with history. The main character is loosely based on early forensic scientist Frances Glessner Lee.
Highly readable and engaging, well plotted, and with a satisfying denouement and resolution. It's the second book in the series although it works well enough as a standalone. There will be some minor spoilers for the 1st book if read out of order.
Four stars. It would be a good choice for public or home library acquisition or a short binge/buddy read. Content warnings for historically accurate raging misogyny and racism.
Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.
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