C.L. Miller’s debut novel “The Antique Hunter’s Guide to Murder” introduces readers to a promising new series that blends the worlds of antique hunting and murder mystery. Set against the atmospheric backdrop of Suffolk’s Dedham Vale, this cozy mystery marks Miller’s entry into the crime fiction genre, bringing her real-world experience with antiques (as daughter of renowned antiques expert Judith Miller) to bear on the story. Plot and Setting The narrative follows Freya Lockwood, a former antique hunter who reluctantly returns to her hometown after twenty years when her mentor Arthur Crockleford dies under suspicious circumstances. Together with her flamboyant Aunt Carole, Freya finds herself drawn into an investigation at the mysterious Copthorn Manor during an antiques enthusiast’s weekend. What begins as a simple gathering quickly evolves into a complex web of deception, family secrets, and murder. Character Analysis Strengths Miller excels at creating memorable characters, particularly in the dynamic between Freya and her Aunt Carole. Carole steals every scene she’s in with her theatrical personality and quick wit, providing much-needed levity to balance the …