sani_404 's review for:

The Hunting Party by Lucy Foley
3.0

"The Hunting Party" presents an intriguing premise that centres around seven friends who gather annually to celebrate New Year. The core group has a strong bond, rooted in their university days, although Emma, who has been dating Mark—a key member of the inner circle—for three years, is a newer addition. As the planner of this year's getaway, Emma is determined to ensure everything goes smoothly. They've chosen a modern, isolated lodge in Scotland, and with such a close-knit group, it seems nothing could go wrong. However, when one of them goes missing and is later found dead on the third day of the trip, their plans take a dark turn. The heavy snowfall blocks outside help, leaving them stranded until conditions improve.

The narrative easily weaves together dual timelines: the present, where the body is discovered, and the lead-up to the tragic event. With multiple points of view, the story is easy to follow and adds depth as we witness the perspectives of various characters in the days leading to the incident.

While the focus on character backstories adds significant depth to the narrative, it sometimes shifts the balance toward drama rather than thriller. Although I appreciate the gradual unfolding of the mystery, it may not deliver the suspense some readers seek. The presence of several red herrings can also detract from the central mystery.

In summary, I would give this book three stars. It is well-suited for readers looking for a slower-paced mystery complemented by rich character drama. For those who enjoy character-driven stories with a touch of intrigue, this could be a perfect fit.