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3.59 AVERAGE


Round up from 3.5 stars. It was like an extended gossip session. I don't think that's an insult.

A solid read HOWEVER the damn family wore me out. Not a single one was likable. The book’s saving grace was the justice at the end. I know everyone doesn’t like a happy ending, but with these characters you needed something to justify spending the time reading/listening to such a book. This family was so messed up that I wanted to bang my head against the walls each time a lie was revealed. Honestly it was just overkill.

Very Knives Out inspired.

So fun to read about awful rich people falling apart

leticia29's review

5.0

This may have been one of my favorite books ever. It had so many twists and turns. Everyone was a suspect in my eyes, or at least they acted very suspicious when the reader got to see their POV when interacting with other individuals, especially their own family. Just when you thought you had it all figured out, something completely different would happen. Nothing seemed extremely crazy or like the author threw in something completely random to throw off the reader.

In "Such A Lovely Family" Aggie Blum weaves a gripping tale of family secrets, betrayal, and murder against the backdrop of Washington, D.C.'s springtime splendor. The Calhoun family appears to have it all—a picturesque home, successful careers, and tight-knit bonds. However, beneath the surface lies a web of deceit and manipulation that ultimately unravels during their annual spring celebration.

The narrative kicks off with the murder that disrupts the seemingly idyllic gathering, setting the stage for a riveting whodunit. Harper masterfully crafts each character, from the controlling parents to the troubled sons and the Instagram influencer daughter, drawing readers into their complex lives and hidden motivations. As the investigation unfolds, family dynamics come under intense scrutiny, revealing long-held grudges and buried secrets.

What sets "Such A Lovely Family" apart is its exploration of the darker side of familial relationships. Aggie delves into themes of parental control, sibling rivalry, and the facade of perfection, creating a compelling narrative that keeps readers guessing until the final pages. The tension steadily mounts as alliances shift, suspicions arise, and the true extent of each character's involvement comes to light.

While the resolution may feel somewhat predictable to seasoned mystery readers, Blum's skillful storytelling and vivid prose make for an engaging read nonetheless. "Such A Lovely Family" is a must-read for fans of domestic suspense, offering a captivating blend of mystery, drama, and intricate family dynamics.
adventurous mysterious medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven: A mix
Strong character development: No
Loveable characters: Complicated
Diverse cast of characters: No
Flaws of characters a main focus: Complicated
mysterious medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven: Plot
Strong character development: Complicated
Loveable characters: Complicated
Diverse cast of characters: Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus: No
mysterious medium-paced
Strong character development: No
Loveable characters: No
Diverse cast of characters: No
mysterious medium-paced