Jill Cooper

I love Richard Osman and have read the Thursday Murder Club Books multiple times. They are spectacular. I was literally counting down the days until this came out. It is an okay and easy read (as Richard’s writing normally is), however the storyline and characters leave a lot to be desired. Not enough time developing characters (and all of the characters seem to have Ron-type issues with talking about their feelings, which means it lacks the emotive connection that TTMC achieves so eloquently) and there is too much going on in the plot. I think I would have liked it a lot more if the plot could have been simplified a lot and more time pulling the curtain back on our stars. It does have a lot of potential so would definitely give a second book in the series a go and hope it builds better but I was a little bit heartbroken that it wasn’t as spectacular as his prior novels.

I am so in love with these books. Richard Osman brings such a warmth and wit to these characters- it makes it immensely enjoyable to read. Although I have long enjoyed crime fiction, I have never found an author who brings such humanity and warmth to the genre. It makes you laugh, cry and feel like you’re an extended member of this gang’s friendship circle. The emotional investment you develop in the characters is a testament to Richard Osman’s unique and talented writing style. It is difficult to carve out a niche in such a busy genre but Richard has done so with style. Wish I could give them more stars!!!