"The Seven & 1/2 Deaths of Evelyn Hardcastle"

 "The Seven and 1/2 Deaths of Evelyn Hardcastle"

Written by Stuart Turton

Reviewed by Diana Iozzia

 The Seven and 1/2 Deaths of Evelyn Hardcastle is a dark murder mystery, in a bizarre setting. We meet Aiden Bishop, our narrator, as he finds himself confused and trapped in the body of a Mr. Sebastian Bell. He is informed by a man dressed in a plague doctor costume, that Evelyn Hardcastle, the daughter of the legendary if not infamous Hardcastle family, will die eight separate days in a row, unless Aiden can solve the mystery of who killed her. On each of the eight days, he will inhabit the body of different hosts, in which he will use their skill set and personality to help him uncover the mystery. However, he is not alone in this quest. Anna, a woman who he remembers somehow, wakes every day without memory, to be taught each day by the hosts and a notebook that Aiden keeps. There are other rivals, like him, who are searching to solve the mystery first.

In the guise of a masquerade ball, Aiden blends in as each host, playing different archetypes: the heir, the banker, the gambler, the butler, and more. Each day is repeated in the same manner, similar to Groundhog Day. Certain objects can be remembered by Aiden each day to help him in his quest, like chess pieces and a compass. Aiden learns that he can leave notes as one host to be read by other guests that day and the next. His plans become very complex and tactical, which are over-explained for the readers to follow. I admit that in many chapters of the book, I felt confused beyond relief. In the final days and the climax, we readers receive a large amount of plot twists and interesting information, that explain the 'game' and who Aiden and Anna really are. I felt pleasantly surprised every step of the way, after anticipating the book since I had first heard of it.

Although this novel relies on suspended disbelief and gimmick, I think it is more than worthy of the buzz surrounding it. The plot, characters, dialogue, and story were so interesting and fun to read. I feel that those who enjoy Knives Out, Agatha Christie, Shirley Jackson, the game and film Clue, F. Scott Fitzgerald, and Charles Dickens would enjoy this story. I enjoyed the elegant and opulent feel, juxtaposed with the dark and malevolent wishes of its characters in Blackhearth Manor. If only Vincent Price was alive to this day; he would have loved to be a part of a film or miniseries production. 

I absolutely adored this novel, even though it was difficult and manipulative at times. I feel that it's best served with a steaming cup of coffee, or whiskey if that's your pleasure. This novel requires stark concentration and note-taking. Good luck!

I rated this novel at 5 out of 5 stars. I eagerly anticipate to read more of this author's work.