Reviews with content warning for Murder - Graham Cattonin murha

I'm a fan of a crime from the past being reexamined in the present, and this was what interested me the most about the book. The true-crime podcast element was a welcome bonus, since I enjoy these a lot in fiction as well. But then there were also some traces of an even older family mystery and a lost place that played a role. Which means this book was practically written for me.

But there was so much more to the book. The topic that messed the most with my head and heart was the emotional abuse and gaslighting, which is depicted SO realistically. My heart was breaking over and over again while my anger reached unbelievable heights (would not recommend reading this book before going to sleep, you'll be too angry to do so). For the most part of the book, I couldn't decide if I wanted Hannah to be innocent or if I hoped she actually killed her husband because he deserved it! (A warning, though: You will spend a lot of time in the protagonist's head, so this book might not be for someone who expects a fast-paced plot.)

And then there is the true-crime podcast. I think it showed really well how popular this type of entertainment has become and why it appeals to so many people. It showed how it can be used to actually find new evidence or witnesses and be used to give a wrongly accused person another chance. But it also showed the negative aspects really well, the effects such a podcast can have on the people involved in the original crime (like the victim's relatives, their friends, coworkers, etc.). And when Social Media is involved.... uff.

I didn't know where the plot was going for the majority of the book, which is really rare for me. But I think this is due to the way the author made me doubt every piece of information. When I finally got an idea, things started to come together to what I think is a satisfying conclusion. However, I didn't like the ending. It was ... one step too far for me. And the additional chapter/epilogue thingy in the audiobook only made it a little bit better.

I loved the explanation of psychological abuse and toxic relationships at the end though and the plea to reach out for help if you experience any of these red flags.

Content Warnings

raven_pine's review against another edition

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adventurous mysterious tense medium-paced

Plot- or character-driven? A mix
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? It's complicated
Diverse cast of characters? No
Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.75

A gripping psychological thriller following Hannah as the murder of her husband is being reinvestigated and it slowly causes her world to fall apart. This is by no means a fast paced book and just before the halfway mark I did find myself getting distracted but it quickly picked up again and I was hooked until the end.
This is told in both the past exploring Hannah’s relationship with Graham including the events leading up to his death and the present where his murder is being reinvestigated by a true crime podcast. I liked watching the podcast aspect from a different perspective as I have read a few books featuring this now but they had all been from the perspective of the investigator so seeing it from the side of the accused made for a unique read.
I honestly think that this would make an amazing film. I highly recommend it!

Content Warnings

machenn's review against another edition

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dark mysterious tense fast-paced

Plot- or character-driven? A mix
Strong character development? It's complicated
Loveable characters? No
Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.0

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