Sulari Gentill gives readers a classic whodunit with a metafiction twist
Author: Sulari Gentill
Released: June 2022
Genre: Fiction
Pages: 288
Audiobook Length: 9 hours (approx.)
Awards/Acclaim
USA Today Bestseller
Amazon Book of the Month
PopSugar's Must Read Thrillers and Mysteries in 2022
Review
This was my introduction to metafiction. Metafiction is fiction in which the author breaks the fourth wall with the audience.
Sulari Gentill does this in a clever manner and I found it did add to the story.
Stick with me. This sounds more confusing than when you actually read it in the book.
The book is a manuscript by (fictional) author Hannah. After each of Hannah's chapters her beta reader, Leo, responds with critiques. Leo's responses subtly cause Hannah to change the manuscript in the proceeding chapters.
The Plot of the Manuscript
The manuscript begins with a woman's scream in a quiet library. Security instructs patrons to stay in place while they find the source. Meanwhile, four strangers sitting at the same table in the library's reading room spend that time forming new friendships.
However, a member of the quartet is a murderer.
The manuscript follows these four new friends as they navigate their relationships with one another while trying to solve the mystery surrounding the scream.
Additional Comments
I enjoyed the cast of characters with their varying personalities. There were many light-hearted moments and amusement throughout. I initially wasn't sure about the book-within-a-book construction but I ultimately embraced the ride.
The ending was a bit abrupt, sadly. Things were neatly tied with a bow yet I wanted a little something more. Nevertheless, I liked the meta aspect of the book and if a sequel were to be made I'd be eager to add it to my reading list.
About the Author
Sulari Gentill is an author who lives in Australia. She wrote this book while staying in a refugee house following the spread of fires throughout her country and hometown. Her husband and son voluntarily fought the fires and Sulari has described this book as an escape from the reality and stress of that time period.
She has published previous books including Rowland Sinclair Series and The Hero Trilogy.
Content Warnings
Talk of sexual violence
Violence
Verdict
Score: 8.2/10
An enjoyable twist on the classic whodunit.
Yes, get it! Pick it up at your library, local bookstore, or favorite online retailer.
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