Perhaps my favorite class in high school was Art History. I loved everything about it – learning about the stories behind each slide, both the depictions and the stories of creation. And, surprising nobody, the art world has always intrigued me, particularly art crime. (I have a sizable collection of books on forgery!)

So when I came upon The Antique Hunter’s Guide to Murder, I was instantly intrigued. Could this be a new blend of art crime + murder mystery to sink my teeth into? Plus, the story features a detecting duo – a niece and aunt combo – who flagged my “found family” spider senses. I’m happy to have read an early copy (Thanks to Atria and NetGalley) – so let’s dive in…

A family affair

Probably the most standout feature of The Antique Hunter’s Guide to Murder is the family relationship. There are layers and layers of family elements to this story – both for Freya and her aunt Carole, and in disentangling the mystery. We’re talking found families, estranged families, inheritance disputes – if there’s a family trope, it’s in here.

The protagonists, of course, are an interesting mix of both “true” and found family. Because while Carole is Freya’s blood aunt, she’s also effectively her mother. This dual relationship allows Miller to have the best of both worlds, as the two care deeply for each other, while also having more flexibility than a “true” mother/daughter pair. Freya also has her own daughter, and a reasonable portion of her narration explores her complex feelings about letting Jade out into the world. And the dual generations of perspective mean that we can see what Carole wishes for her adoptive daughter, even as Freya remains almost oblivious of these hopes. Freya and Carole’s interactions propel the story forward, and it’s an intriguing relationship.

There’s also a “real” found family here, in the form of Arthur Crockleford, Freya’s estranged mentor. Upon his passing, Freya and Carole realize he’s left behind a puzzle hunt based on antiques. It’s clear he thinks it’s important, and Freya must revisit some painful memories and overcome past hurts before she can truly engage with the puzzle. If Carole represents reconciliation, Arthur represents regret – and redemption.

And then there’s the family at the core of the mystery, which has its own set of tensions. Despite their blood relationships, it’s clear that they’re not particularly close – or happy to be together. Instead, they’re all competing over a mysterious set of treasures in a hidden vault. Structurally, they’re an interesting foil to our protagonists. And plot-wise, they’re a varied set of antagonists – though perhaps a bit one-note in their mutual hatred.

An adventurous puzzle hunt

Just to be clear – this is primarily an adventure book, with a bit of mystery and a heap of puzzle hunt thrown in. There’s almost a surfeit of mystery tropes here, starting from the cold open on the murder, continuing with two mysterious inheritances, and a post-humous puzzle hunt. Miller involves a host of surprises, and there’s a lot of fun with the English country house setting itself. (It’s been a while since I’ve read anything which uses both a folly and vaults as settings / plot points.)

The mystery story itself is pretty decent. As a White Collar fan, I’d say it has similar vibes, particularly when it comes to research into the antiques and antiquities. I am not entirely sure that it’s fair play – the plot leans more towards the “adventure” side of modern mystery novels. But it’s a compelling adventure and I certainly enjoyed reading all the way through.

Reader’s notes and rating (⭐️⭐️⭐️✨)

The Antique Hunter’s Guide to Murder is a pretty fun modern mystery with a family twist. I enjoyed the read and may even want to read more Freya and Carole (if they return). The mystery was good – I just found myself missing something for my personal taste. Overall, a pretty decent mystery and one I’d be happy recommending anyone who already enjoys the genre. 3.5 stars.

The Antique Hunter’s Guide to Murder will be published on February 6, 2024.

*This will meet “book with an apostrophe in the title” for my 52 Book Club challenge this year!