The Maid by Nita Prose isn’t a book I would normally select for Maria's Book Banter since it’s the first in a series about a character named Molly. I usually pick standalone books. However, when I read its description, it sounded like something I would really enjoy. I just had a good feeling about this one. Let’s see if I'm right…
Molly works as a maid at the Regency Grand Hotel – a
place that is as sophisticated as it sounds. She loves her job and takes pride
in her work. Molly is self-described as being socially inept. While she
definitely does have her awkward moments, she seems friendly enough with her
co-workers and guests, particularly with Giselle Black who frequently stays at
the hotel. At least, that is my first impression of her. This contradiction is a
point of confusion for me, but I must set it aside to move forward with the
story.
On one ordinary day, Molly discovers Charles Black,
Giselle's husband, dead in his suite. She is inevitably interviewed by police
investigating the death.
Much of this book is telling the story of Molly’s life before
finding a dead body as well as Giselle’s marriage. I wish it would get back to
the question of what happened to Charles Black. On the other hand, answers to
this mystery may lie in these details from Molly’s past. So, I pay close
attention, but it certainly does take its time getting to the heart of the
story.
Molly is a complicated protagonist. Summaries of this
book label her as neurodivergent, although as the narrator, she doesn’t disclose
that diagnosis to my knowledge. Yet, all the stereotypical signs are there. She
is extremely detail oriented and shockingly blunt when interacting with people,
but is she always completely truthful with them? She misinterprets others’
emotions and expressions. Molly is straight forward in her thinking, which is
reflected in the narration of this book. Unfortunately, she is also very naive,
especially when it comes to dealing with criminal minds. Because of this, Molly
makes some unfortunate choices that will cost her.
It could be argued that the plot turns in this story are
predictable, obvious, maybe even corny. To that I say, you have to see these
events though Molly’s innocent eyes and unsuspecting mind to fully appreciate
this novel.
Were my first instincts correct about this book? My
answer is a qualified “yes”. As I stated earlier, this is the first in a series
of books about Molly the Maid. Despite issues with pacing and explaining the
legal system, I can see myself continuing with this series since Molly is such
a unique heroine; I mean that in the best possible way. I’d like to see what the
future has in store for her – hopefully good things.
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