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A review by nataliemartin
The Christmas Murder Game by Alexandra Benedict
dark
mysterious
sad
tense
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
3.25
The Christmas Murder Game by Alexandra Benedict is quite the read! This novel reminded me of And Then There Were None by Christie - an ill-fated guessing game, though perhaps a bit less eerie.
Lily finds herself back where it all began: The Endgame House deciphering her aunt’s puzzles in a race to claim ownership of the familial estate. But, for Lily, the stakes are even higher as she attempts to unravel the mystery surrounding her mother’s death. Cousins are pitted against one another in a game that could result in death.
The book was a quick read, full of intrigue as the characters seek to outwit their competitors. I found the clues to be very opaque, meant for a singular audience - one particular character. It would have been more intriguing if the reader were able to decipher clues in Liliana’s poetry. In effect, playing the game alongside the characters. I think the author was trying to attempt this by including anagrams, but it felt a bit disjointed in the way it was included.
In addition, I wish there was a bit more character development, especially for some of the secondary characters. These characters made strange decisions which were curious considering there was a murderer on the loose.
Overall, an interesting and festive take on a classic whodunnit.
Many thanks to Poisoned Pen Press and NetGalley for this title in exchange for my honest review.
Lily finds herself back where it all began: The Endgame House deciphering her aunt’s puzzles in a race to claim ownership of the familial estate. But, for Lily, the stakes are even higher as she attempts to unravel the mystery surrounding her mother’s death. Cousins are pitted against one another in a game that could result in death.
The book was a quick read, full of intrigue as the characters seek to outwit their competitors. I found the clues to be very opaque, meant for a singular audience - one particular character. It would have been more intriguing if the reader were able to decipher clues in Liliana’s poetry. In effect, playing the game alongside the characters. I think the author was trying to attempt this by including anagrams, but it felt a bit disjointed in the way it was included.
In addition, I wish there was a bit more character development, especially for some of the secondary characters. These characters made strange decisions which were curious considering there was a murderer on the loose.
Overall, an interesting and festive take on a classic whodunnit.
Many thanks to Poisoned Pen Press and NetGalley for this title in exchange for my honest review.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Murder and Suicide