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bakingbookworm 's review for:
A Most Puzzling Murder
by Bianca Marais
challenging
mysterious
tense
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:
Complicated
A Most Puzzling Murder is the upcoming book by Canadian author Bianca Marais and I couldn't be more excited! It's a unique story where mystery meets fantasy and there's also a fun interactive element - so get your sleuthing caps on, readers!
The story centres around Destiny Whip, a child prodigy and enigmatologist, who is invited to a mysterious and secluded island. There's a locked room, Clue board game vibe to this entertaining story that introduces readers to the Scruffmore family who controls the island and has more than its fair share of secrets ... as Destiny is about to find out.
What sets this mystery apart are the interactive puzzles for readers to solve (don't worry, the answers are in the back, and you can email Destiny for clues along the way!). There are also a few 'choose your own conundrum' sections which give readers two interesting options but don't impact the general story. So, if you're feeling intrepid you can dive into these entertaining extras.
The creepy tale is told by a variety of POVs in this colourful cast of characters - each of whom has their own motivation for murder and desire for power. With shocking reveals, a family tree that gets a few updates, a prophecy, and family tension up the wazoo, readers are in for quite a wild ride. There's a big cast and lots going on in this story, so I'd recommend not leaving too much time between your reading sessions.
This is an ambitious, zany and unique story that gives readers a bit of a challenge, a compelling 'whodunnit' and a bird's eye view into the messy family goings-on in the Scruffmore clan. Preorder it today for its June 10th pub date!
Disclaimer: My sincere thanks to the publisher for the advanced reading copy of this book which was given to me at the Ontario Library Conference.