I quite liked it. I like murder mysteries, especially ones written by women (Shari Lapena). The crux of the plot is that a wealthy couple is murdered, with some anger and violence. We had such a situation in Toronto. I wonder if this was the inspiration?!
"Barry Sherman, 75, the founder and chairman of the board of generic drug giant Apotex, and his 70-year-old wife, Honey, were found dead in the basement pool area of their home on Old Colony Rd. in Toronto's North York neighbourhood on Dec. 15, 2017."
It makes one wonder. The Shermans, however, were well-liked philanthropic billionaires. This mystery involves the same plot, billionaires who are murdered, but the characters are different and reveal themselves one at a time.
Fred and Sheila Mercer are murdered following an Easter family dinner, which included their three adult children. There are family secrets which are revealed slowly, one chapter at a time. It was wonderfully enthralling.
She creates depth and breadth and makes you wonder. Shari Lapena writes well and reveals those little details piece by piece. The book really unfolds, and sucks you in. JB read it, too. Both of us really enjoyed this book. You need not read these in order, even though I did! I enjoy seeing how authors evolve as they write.
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When I was searching for info on Lapena, I found this post she'd made on Twitter. She is quite active. People are so quick to judge politics, and world issues. We do not know what we do not know. That said, I don't think an author ought to be weighing in on such. The evacuation from Afghanistan was more complex than we citizens know. |
| Many countries, Taliban restrictions |
10 comments:
I love a good mystery. Thanks for reviewing.
I do like a good mystery book sometimes. It all started with Nancy Drew.
...many families aren't!
I'm not interested in the evacuations. I'm more interested in why and how does America get stuck in all these places (Vietnam, Irak, Afghanistan), dragging down with it the stupid allies of Europe, Australia, Canada.
It sounds like a good read.
A murder mystery from the headlines should appeal to many.
I'm pleased that you shared a tweet about Afghanistan from my friend, NYT journalist, Katie Benner. I do hope those who were left behind will be allowed to leave. Clearly there is more to the story, but it was devastating to watch the evacuation explode.
That's a great review and I agree about Afghanistan. None of us should be pointing fingers as we don't know what is going on behind those monumental decisions. Lives were lost and people are grieving. It is a heartbreaking situation.
Thank you for visiting and leaving a comment on my snapping turtle. I enjoyed the link you provided on yours.
I remember reading about the murder of the Shermans at the time. The author does live in Toronto (and Cobourg?), I think. Did she ever respond to your tweet? Just curious. Also, did you ever read her mystery/thriller: The Couple Next Door? I haven't, but just placed it on hold at the library. And I'd like to read Not a Happy Family. Thank you for reviewing!
We're hearing the same negative comments and I agree with you. I don't know that it was handled as well as it might be -- but on the other hand, it was a complex issue at a fluid time and it is definitely not for me to judge. I've read some LaPena and her books are always gripping.
Murder mysteries and police action novels are a favourite of mine these days. At least I'm off my horror book phase. - Margy
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