A review by kristineisreading
Not a Happy Family by Shari Lapena

dark mysterious tense fast-paced

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

3.5

Not a Happy Family is an understatement. Not a single character in the book is happy, and some are downright miserable. Yet somehow it manages to not be a miserable book. I like the premise of having a group of clear suspects. Information is slowly revealed throughout that points the finger at each of them, creating doubt and a multitude of red herrings. The ending is satisfying in that you finally get to know the whole truth. Overall a solid mystery that stands out in a world of formulaic whodunnits.