A fortune for prospective readers – A little bird says that if you enjoyed the first book, you’ll like the sequel!
A direct sequel to How to Solve Your Own Murder, this book answers all the lingering questions (well, almost all!) that had been remaining. The first few chapters act as a refresher course as we get reintroduced to the characters and events of the first book. Most of the original characters are back, with Archie Foyle, Peony Lane, and Jenny, figuring more prominently in this one. There are also some new characters such as the annoying Chief Inspector Toby Marks, stealthy Samantha (receptionist at the police station), and Archie’s brother Eric. Following a similar structure to the first one, Annie finds herself entangled in a murder case and has to use her sleuthing skills to not only discover who’s the murderer, but also to clear her name as she’s a suspect as well. The other timeline features Annie’s Great Aunt Frances and her life following Emily’s disappearance. The tragic deaths of three members of the Gravesdown family resulting from a car crash (maybe not) is the focal point of the book as both Annie and Frances are involved in ascertaining what really happened that night.
Even though reading the first book isn’t necessary, I think it gives one more investment in the characters and makes reading the sequel more fulfilling. I actually enjoyed Frances’ backstory more this time out. Her character is much more fleshed out as we find out about her dreams, goals, and disappointments, and her complicated love life. It’s also interesting how the author has made Annie and Frances more alike as we see them sharing similar personality traits. Pour yourself a cuppa tea and enjoy another fun romp at Castle Knoll!
Reviewed by Christina Crocker
April 29, 2025
No comments:
Post a Comment