mona sadhwani

A Gripping Mystery "People are careless with their words nowadays," but Alice Fenney's masterful storytelling is anything but careless. I chose this title for its nostalgic value, reminiscent of the childhood game. However, unlike the game's multiple options, this novel cleverly manipulates readers into disliking every character - except the endearing Bob (a self-confessed cynophile here!). Fenney skillfully illustrates what she also mentioned in the book - "nobody is ever just a hero or just a villain; we all have it in us to be both." The first half delightfully explores the witty banter of a married couple, but the pace quickens after the intriguing 'History of Blackwater Chapel.' As the mystery unfolds, heart-pounding moments and mind-bending confusion ensue. What sets this thriller apart is its satisfying conclusion, tying up every loose end. Spoiler Alert: Discovering Amelia's role as the second wife left me eager to re-read, realizing my initial perspective was skewed toward the first wife. Fenney's poignant lines resonated deeply: •⁠ ⁠"Nobody should promise to love somebody else forever...the most any sane individual should do is promise to try." •⁠ ⁠"It's too easy to get blinded by man-made city lights...even though they could never shine as brightly as the stars in a cloudless sky."