The Mystery Writer

Unfortunately, this book is a flop for me. I enjoyed The Woman in the Library by this author, but this book is so convoluted and chaotic that I found myself frustrated while reading it, especially in the last 25% of the book.

The book centers on Theo, a budding author, who becomes entangled in a murder investigation when she discovers Dan, her writer friend and lover, dead in his home. As the synopsis tells us, Theo ends up being forced to flee when the investigation focuses on her and her brother, Gus.

To start with, the synopsis on the book gives away the first 75% of the story. The book spends a large amount of time setting up the murders and the investigation and then rushes through the events involving Theo's disappearance and Gus's search for her. Then, once she disappears, the story rushes to a conclusion by skipping years of time. It felt very chaotic and undeveloped.

Theo as a main character is frustrating, also. She is so naïve and reckless even though she knows she needs to be careful. She never follows the sensible advice of her brother and friends. She constantly puts herself and others in danger.

There is honestly just too much going on in this plot. We encounter murders, conspiracy theories, doomsday preppers, communes, evil corporations, and crazy fans. It is all too distracting, and much of it is unnecessary. I just couldn't figure out what story the author is trying to tell.

The one positive thing I found in this book is the relationships between Theo and Gus and between Gus and his friend Mac. Gentill is actually quite good at building these relationships. I wish she had kept the focus on them instead of the plot events in the end.

This book is just not it for me. I hate to give low ratings, but I ended this reading experience feeling annoyed. I will not be recommending this book.

Thank you to Netgalley and Poisoned Pen for providing me an advanced review copy of this book.