Author: Benjamin Stevenson
Pages: 371
Format: Paperback
Published: January 17, 2023
Publisher: Mariner Books
View on Goodreads
Date Completed: July 29, 2025
My rating: 
Thoughts
I went into this book expecting a fun whodunit with some fourth-wall breaking gimmicks. What I got was so much more clever, layered, and downright delightful than I anticipated. Benjamin Stevenson has crafted a mystery that’s both hilariously self-aware and masterfully plotted.
The narrator, Ernest, is a standout character — funny, smart, and a bit like a modern-day Sherlock with a more conversational tone. His voice is instantly engaging, and I loved the way he broke the fourth wall to talk directly to the reader. Instead of feeling gimmicky or overdone, it only added to the charm and made the story even more immersive.
The mystery itself was incredibly well-constructed. Stevenson plays fair with the reader, even calling out when he’s doing so, and yet I was still completely surprised by the final twist. I audibly gasped. That very rarely happens. I could absolutely see myself rereading this book just to find all the breadcrumbs I missed the first time.
While the rest of the family didn’t stand out as much as Ernest, the dynamics were still consistent and believable — maybe a little heightened, but that only added to the fun. The humor and suspense were balanced just right, and the book never took itself too seriously, even as bodies started piling up.
Benjamin Stevenson’s writing style is straightforward in the best way. The pacing is tight, the tone is comedic with just the right amount of drama, and the meta touches are so well executed that they feel entirely natural.
This book was an absolute blast from beginning to end and worth all 5 stars. I’d recommend it to anyone, mystery fan or not, but especially to reader who appreciate a fresh, inventive take on the genre. I can’t wait to read the next book.
