A review by jeaven
The House That Death Built by Mel Stone

lighthearted mysterious medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? No
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? No

3.5

This honestly felt like two separate books. The first half was an endearing love story that I honestly could not put down and the second half was a mystery and the transition was jarring. 

The first 65% of the book I just couldn’t put down. I loved Joy and her courtship with Arthur, and her relationship with her family and community. It was entertaining and lighthearted and fun.
there was that whole mess with her almost getting murdered protecting Eve and John pretending to string her along but that was just a little added spice to the story.


The last 35% dragged for me. As I’ve said before I absolutely hate when a problem can be solved through open communication and honesty. I get that that would ruin the mystery aspect of it all but it wasn’t really that mysterious when there were so many hints given along the way. Without this part of it I would’ve rated it 4.5 or 5 stars EASY. Sadly it was not meant to be. 

Still a solid read with an eclectic cast of characters. 
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