Caitlin Smith/Review | Immerse yourself in the fashion, setting and mystery of the 1920s

Now that the weather is finally changing to beautiful and crisp autumn cozy weather, it’s time to tackle a new murder mystery. Everything Glitters is the newest novel from young adult author Robin Talley, and if you like a mystery set in a dazzling historical setting, this might be your next great read.

Everything Glitters is a novel set in Prohibition-era Washington, DC. The film centers on a group of upper-class girls trying to solve the murder of their school principal. Thanks to its design, it has some great descriptions of the lush styles of the 1920s, including the flapper fashions that revolutionized the era. The fun and free atmosphere of the bars where everyone runs away at night contrasts with the strict upper class society into which the main characters were born.

Like any good mystery writer, Talley does a great job of creating suspicion around each of the characters and sowing seeds of mistrust in the reader. At any moment it seems that someone might be to blame.

Since the plot is mostly revealed through conversations between characters, the narrator, and in turn the reader, is never sure whether anyone is telling the truth.

Since the story is set during the Prohibition era and the main characters visit or attempt to visit speakeasies, the added fact that characters may lie to cover up other illegal activities—besides simple murder—makes it difficult to trust anyone’s word.

When the guilty party is eventually revealed, the scene does have that stereotypical villain monologue aspect that can feel a little abrupt and rushed. However, the final confrontation between the protagonist and the villain was reminiscent of an old Nancy Drew novel, so the nostalgic reminder of one of the most iconic detectives was something I was partial to.

A delightful aspect of this story is the friendship between the three central characters: Gertie, Millie and Clara. They are all well designed to be unique and interesting. The girls all come from the same upper class and social background, but they have all gone through unique life circumstances that are revealed throughout the story, making them a consistently engaging read.

During the most dangerous moments of the story, all the girls are very protective of each other; however, they still have their arguments that are realistic and meaningful to their character and development. However, in the most difficult moments, they stick together, which leads to a beautiful and satisfying ending.

If you’re looking for an intriguing murder mystery with well-developed characters that ultimately remains a fun, light read for a cozy fall day when the weather is cool, look no further. Robin Talley’s Everything That Shines is a historically fascinating story featuring gorgeous vintage fashions and furnishings, as well as the dangers and drama of Prohibition in America. So, warm yourself up with a cup of tea and enjoy a good detective story.

Caitlin Smith works in the children’s services department at the Champaign Public Library.