Author: Lindsey Lamar
To Be Published: February 2024
Rating: 2/5 stars
I chose this book because I found the idea of an interactive mystery intriguing. The book begins with addressing the reader as a new employee of a PI firm. The reader is then given the background of a case where a woman, Sillian Parks, is initially missing and then found by her twin sister, Jane Parks, in an unconscious condition. The reader is told that there are ten files, which include all the investigative information such as police questioning, Jane’s version of events and a diary from the 1940s written by Mary Sophomore, a movie star from back then who disappeared along with her twin sister from the same house.
The concept of this book was unique, but it didn’t work for me. I struggled with the maps and the architectural descriptions of the manor. I also expected an interactive mystery to make me feel like I was part of the action, but the way this book was set up, the action felt at a distance from me. I prefer being absorbed by a story. But here, because of the writing style, I felt once removed from the story, so maybe playing detective is not for me.
I liked the historical context provided and how the book switched between the two timelines. The historical tale described in Mary’s diary was much more engaging than Jane’s tale, but after a while, Mary’s story became too far-fetched. A suspension of disbelief was required to enjoy the book beyond a point.
The climax had a nice twist, but once again, it felt like a square peg is being forced into a round hole. I don’t want to elaborate and give away spoilers. In conclusion, this book wasn’t for me. But if you enjoy solving puzzles and murder mystery board games with a historical flavour, you will love this book.
Thank you, NetGalley for the ARC of the book.
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