The Murder Game

This is my eighth Rachel Abbot novel, so I imagine that I'm starting at least to be counted as a fan. I think the novels vary in quality, but all I have found worth reading. Until I met this book, 'And So It Begins' was decidely my favourite. The 'Murder Game' rises above them all. It is Agatha Christie at her very best, in the twenty first century. Don't expect realism and plausibility, but suspend disbelief and surely you will be enraptured with this wonderful psychological thriller. We start at Polskirrin, a near-stately home, where a collection of well-heeled characters gather to celebrate the wedding of Lucas Jarrett and his wife-to-be, Nina. The small select group of guests comprise Lucas' friends: Andrew and his wife, Chandra, Matt and his wife Jemma, the twins Nicholas and Isabel and Lucas' younger sister, the enigmatic Alex. Jump forward precisely one year and the title comes powerfully to light. Events, full of twists, turns and undercurrents move on apace until even the police are drawn in, albeit in a somewhat muted role. The final twist and denoument is very cleverly accomplished. I love the central idea behind the plot, and here I find the characters more original and vitally alive than in Tom and Becky series of novels. As we go into December, this is without doubt my thriller of the year.

I’m really rather surprised by the low star reviews as this is a good story. Is it the best murder mystery I’ve ever read -nope, is Rachel Abbott the next Agatha Christie - also nope. But this was a solid little mystery, I finished it in under two hours and I figured the culprit maybe 80% through the book and another twist a bit earlier but it didn’t affect my enjoyment one bit. It is a really good mystery and I liked the characters and the changes they go through.I loved the setting and the inclusion of the police.Warning though- this is also being sold under the name the invitation. It’s the same book.I’d describe this as an enjoyable beach read or lazy Sunday book. Will be passing it on to friends.

Utter waste of money bought two of her last eat books as I read everything she writes and they are the same bookThanks a lot - there should be an obvious warning that these are the same book

I really enjoyed this book, even though I guessed a few bits but made me want to read it quicker to find out if I was right! Will definitely read more Rachel Abbott.

My first novel of Rachel Abbott , great plot lots of intrigue , now reading my 4th book of hers. Just what l need beautifully written great .