Book Review: Everyone in My Family Has Killed Someone by Benjamin Stevenson
When I first stumbled upon Everyone in My Family Has Killed Someone, I felt an undeniable pull—perhaps it was the audacious title that caught my attention, or the promise of a fresh take on the classic whodunit. As a fan of Agatha Christie and Clue, I was eager to dive into this murder mystery penned by Benjamin Stevenson. The intriguing premise—a family reunion at a snowy resort where every member has blood on their hands—hinted at an entertaining mix of suspense and humor. Little did I know, it would keep me both laughing and guessing until the very end!
From the outset, the book introduces us to Ern Cunningham, our unreliable narrator who wields his expertise as a murder mystery author to dissect the chaos surrounding his family. With each character introduced, it became clear that the Cunningham family members are delightfully dysfunctional, and Ern’s candid insights provide a unique perspective. Stevenson cleverly uses Ern’s affinity for storytelling to illuminate family dynamics with an air of whimsy, drawing the reader into a world fraught with tension and unexpected twists.
Key themes revolve around guilt, family loyalty, and the absurdity of human nature, beautifully woven together with sharp dialogue. The characters are vividly drawn—each with a distinct voice that reflects their quirks and foibles. The humor peppered throughout, particularly in Ern’s inner monologue, makes for a refreshing narrative style. One particularly memorable line reads, “Some of us are good, others are bad, and some just unfortunate.” This sets the tone for both the dark comedy and the deep dive into familial relationships that ensues.
While I found the pacing occasionally lags, particularly in the middle where some details felt overly drawn out, the cleverly placed clues and intricacies of the plot kept me engaged overall. It’s a narrative that challenges one’s detective skills, making you question everything you think you know about the characters and their dark pasts. Readers looking for well-crafted twists will not be disappointed; it’s a tale where nothing is truly as it seems.
Many reviewers have highlighted Stevenson’s unique narrative techniques—particularly Ern’s occasional foreshadowing that hints at upcoming revelations without spoiling the story’s thrilling momentum. This meta-commentary on the mystery genre itself adds depth and invites readers to look closer at the clues hidden in the text. One reviewer noted how “the dialogue between characters seemed very realistic and unpredictable,” which I wholeheartedly agree with; their interactions carry an authenticity that mirrors the messy complexity of real family dynamics.
In conclusion, I wholeheartedly recommend Everyone in My Family Has Killed Someone to fans of both traditional and modern mysteries. The blend of humor and darkness creates a compelling reading experience that not only entertains but also prompts reflections on familial ties and morality. If you enjoy a good laugh interspersed with suspense, this book is a must-read. It leaves you pondering long after the final page—how well do we really know our families? For me, this novel was not just a delightful escapade; it was an insightful exploration of the laughter and heartaches we share with those we love—and perhaps, who we might want to keep at arm’s length!
You can find Everyone in My Family Has Killed Someone: A Novel here >>