A satisfying read - that is how it felt after I turned the last page. I turn to Lapena's books whenever I want something fast paced, high on setting and a plot that gets me tearing through the pages. This book did all of that and more, showing why it is no wonder that Lapena is on top of her game when it comes to racy whodunnits.
Gist:
Fred and Sheila are hosting an Easter dinner for their three adult children, something by their children. The next morning, the cleaner finds the couple brutally murdered and the police have to step in to figure who could have done such a heinous deed.
What I liked:
- I was going through a reading slump where I was finding it hard to carry on reading. This time I had no trouble finishing it off quickly. Lapena really is the queen of the one-sit read!
- Lapena's settings are always strong - where it is a drinks party next door, or a hotel on a snowladen night. In this case, a fractious family dinner is the base of the story which is a perfect platform for the story to unfold.
- The characters are distinct and their behaviour well in keeping with the personas. They are strong and well moulded as potential suspects. The backstories are convincing giving each of them a motive to be the killer. It is amazing how Lapena skilfully creates characters with a few words, ones that instantly stick in mind.
- There are liberal doses of clues and Lapena is good at shining spotlight on each suspect, keeping the reader guessing about the killer till the end.
- The reader feels not only invested in the story but also the conclusion, as the story leaves behind a satiated reader to join the dots.
A superbly paced read, thoroughly enjoyed it!
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