If you are a fan of gripping thrillers with unexpected twists and a touch of supernatural intrigue, then “How to Survive Your Murder” by Danielle Valentine should be at the top (or middle,depends) of your reading list. This novel follows the journey of Alice Lawrence, the sole witness to her sister Claire’s brutal murder. In the year since that fateful night, Alice’s life has disintegrated—her parents have divorced, she’s been forced to move into a dingy apartment that smells like bologna, and she now faces a courtroom full of doubters who question her version of events.
Table of Contents
The Unraveling of Alice’s World
Alice and Claire could not have been more different. Claire was the all-American girl: beautiful, bubbly, and a star in the theater. Alice, on the other hand, was a self-professed nerd with dreams of becoming a forensic pathologist. She preferred watching horror movies at home over attending parties. Despite their contrasting personalities, the sisters were each other’s best friends, bound by an unbreakable sisterhood—until Claire was taken from her.
A Twist of Fate
On the first day of the murder trial, as Alice prepares to give her crucial testimony, she is mysteriously knocked out by a Sidney Prescott look-alike in the courthouse bathroom. When she regains consciousness, she finds herself transported back in time to Halloween night, a year earlier—the very night Claire was murdered. Alice realizes she has until midnight to save her sister and uncover the real killer before another life is claimed.
What Makes “How to Survive Your Murder” a Must-Read
One of the standout elements of “How to Survive Your Murder” is its intriguing mystery and the well-crafted whodunit storyline. Valentine skillfully weaves a tale that keeps readers guessing until the very end. The twist at the conclusion is both surprising and plausible, ensuring that the story remains realistic while delivering a satisfying jolt to the reader.
The novel also exudes a nostalgic “Back to the Future” vibe, adding a unique flavor to the narrative. This blend of thriller and time travel makes it a compelling and engaging read from start to finish. Additionally, the pacing is well-balanced, ensuring that the story never drags and keeps readers hooked throughout.
A Word of Caution: The Ending
While “How to Survive Your Murder” excels in many areas, the ending might leave some readers wanting. Without giving too much away, it’s worth noting that the conclusion might not satisfy everyone. Spoiler alert: despite Alice’s efforts, all her friends still end up dead, which can feel somewhat anticlimactic after such a gripping journey. A happy ending would have wrapped up the story more neatly and left readers with a greater sense of closure.
Final Thoughts
Overall, “How to Survive Your Murder” by Danielle Valentine is a captivating and well-written thriller that offers a unique blend of mystery, supernatural elements, and time travel. It’s a short, engaging read that’s easy to get through in one sitting, perfect for fans of the genre. Despite the somewhat disappointing ending, the novel’s strengths far outweigh its weaknesses, making it a worthwhile addition to any thriller enthusiast’s bookshelf.
If you’re looking for a suspenseful and thrilling read with an unexpected twist, “How to Survive Your Murder” is definitely worth your time. Because of the ending my rating for this book is 4/5 stars⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Page count:302
Release date: august 30, 2022
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