Hi, I’m Shannon, and today I’m sharing a tough review with you. We’re diving into everyone in My Family Has Killed Someone by Benjamin Stevenson. If you’re interested, the audio version is available for listening as well. I stumbled upon this intriguing book during a recent trip to the bookstore, primarily captivated by its striking title.
Soon after, I discovered that HBO has acquired the rights, and it’s set to be adapted into a limited series. While no casting decisions have been announced yet, I can see how this mystery could translate well onto the screen. So, let’s break down this fascinating novel.
First off, everyone in My Family Has Killed Someone is a mystery novel. I don’t typically gravitate towards mysteries—I tend to prefer character-driven stories over plot-heavy ones—but the title hooked me. From what I’ve gathered, Benjamin Stevenson, the author, is an Australian comedian and writer, and his comedic touch shines through in the storytelling.
If you’re a fan of films like Knives Out or Glass Onion, you’ll likely enjoy the similar witty and mysterious tone of this book, though it has its own unique flair. Let’s dive into the plot—without spoilers for now.
The protagonist, Ernest, is a teacher who writes detective and mystery novels. The story begins with him reluctantly attending a family reunion, and what unfolds is nothing short of darkly comedic chaos. The writing style is conversational, as if Ernest is speaking directly to the reader, which adds an engaging, almost interactive element to the narrative.
Early in the book, Stevenson references the “Ten Commandments of Detective Fiction” from a 1929 book by Ronald Knox. These rules shape the structure of the story and add a clever nod to classic mystery tropes. For example, one rule states that the criminal must be introduced early in the story but cannot be a character whose thoughts we follow. Another rule prohibits the detective from committing the crime, and, amusingly, twin brothers and supernatural elements are generally banned unless properly foreshadowed.
This self-aware approach is what makes everyone in My Family Has Killed Someone stand out. Stevenson keeps readers on their toes by blending traditional mystery elements with a modern, comedic twist. The family dynamics are just as important as the murder mystery, and each character has their own secrets—some deadly.
Without giving away too much, I’ll mention one intriguing detail: many of the deaths involve victims found with ash in their mouths. This peculiar clue ties into the larger mystery and sets up a series of unexpected twists.
In conclusion, everyone in My Family Has Killed Someone is a refreshing take on the mystery genre, perfect for readers who enjoy dark humor and unpredictable plotlines. If you’re looking for a book that balances suspense with sharp wit, this one should be on your reading list.
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An Engaging Twist on Mystery Novels
If you’re a fan of unexpected twists and cleverly written mysteries, everyone in My Family Has Killed Someone by Benjamin Stevenson is a book that deserves your attention. With its unique narrative style and a series of jaw-dropping revelations, this novel has captivated readers and is already making waves as an upcoming HBO limited series. Let’s delve into what makes this story such a compelling read.
A Plot Full of Twists and Turns
Early on, a mysterious death occurs: ash is fed through vents, causing victims to suffocate. One such victim is Michael, whose tragic death sets off a chain of events that unravels the family’s complex history. The plot thickens when Michael’s ex-wife also meets a grim fate, leaving the family scrambling to uncover the culprit as bodies begin to pile up.
The Unpredictable Whodunit
In a classic “whodunit” style, readers are led through a series of false leads and revelations. Initially, the focus shifts to a police officer, who seems to have an unusual connection to the crimes. But the real shock comes when it’s revealed that this officer is actually Jeremy, the long-lost third brother who had been kidnapped 30 years earlier.
Jeremy’s story is deeply unsettling. After discovering he was adopted, Jeremy learns of his violent tendencies and begins to identify with his biological family’s alleged murderous history. When he hears that Michael, his brother, was imprisoned for murder, Jeremy sets out to find his family, believing they share his darker nature.
However, upon arrival, Jeremy realizes his family isn’t quite what he imagined. Their acts of violence were mostly accidents or desperate circumstances, not cold-blooded murders. This disillusionment triggers Jeremy’s spiral into madness, culminating in a shocking spree of violence as he tries to burn down the resort where the family reunion is taking place.
A Clever Narrative Style
One of the most delightful aspects of Everyone in My Family Has Killed Someone is its narrative approach. Ernest, the protagonist, serves as both a character and a guide for readers. He breaks the fourth wall, offering insights and foreshadowing events, including specifying on which pages deaths will occur. This playful yet dark tone adds a unique charm to the book, keeping readers engaged and on edge.
For example, Ernest avoids common mystery clichés. When a character’s phone runs out of battery—a trope often used to create tension—Ernest humorously points out that it doesn’t happen until page 280, subverting expectations and adding a layer of self-awareness to the storytelling.
Why You Should Read This Book?
Benjamin Stevenson’s everyone in My Family Has Killed Someone is a masterful blend of humor, suspense, and intrigue. The narrative balances lighthearted moments with darker themes, creating an engaging experience for readers who enjoy both traditional mysteries and innovative storytelling.
The book’s self-aware tone and unpredictable twists make it stand out in the mystery genre. Whether you’re drawn to character-driven narratives or intricate plots, this novel has something
A Thrilling Mystery with Unpredictable Twists
Everyone in My Family Has Killed Someone by Benjamin Stevenson is a unique and compelling mystery that keeps readers on the edge of their seats. This dark yet humorous novel is more than just a typical whodunit—it’s a story filled with unexpected twists, engaging characters, and a narrative that often breaks the fourth wall to keep the reader intrigued.
A Family Reunion Turns Into a Mystery
The story follows Ernest, who reluctantly heads to a snowy family reunion at a secluded resort in the woods. Right at the start, we learn that Ernest’s brother Michael is being released from jail after serving three years for a crime he committed—a crime Ernest had helped to expose. The reunion is meant to bring the family together after years of separation, but things quickly spiral out of control.
The mystery begins when, upon arriving at the resort, a death occurs. The story sets off into a thrilling investigation, with Ernest navigating through the complicated history of his family. As the title suggests, Everyone in My Family Has Killed Someone, and throughout the novel, we dive into each family member’s dark past, discovering the murders they’ve been involved in—whether by accident, self-defense, or circumstance.
This novel presents an interesting twist on traditional mystery genres. Each chapter is dedicated to a different family member, giving readers a deeper understanding of their motivations and actions. If you’re a fan of gripping, fast-paced mysteries, everyone in My Family Has Killed Someone will keep you hooked from start to finish.
A Family’s Dark Past and Unexpected Revelations
As the story progresses, the family’s secrets begin to unravel. The patriarch, Robert, was murdered when Ernest and Michael were young due to his involvement in criminal activities, although he wasn’t a typical criminal. His crimes were often committed to protect his family. Later, it’s revealed that Robert had been working with the police in an attempt to escape his criminal life when things went terribly wrong, leading to his untimely death.
In addition to Ernest and Michael, the family also had a third brother, Jeremy, whose disappearance was shrouded in mystery for years. Initially, the family believed Jeremy died in a tragic car accident, but it turns out that he had been kidnapped by criminals who believed their mother had crucial information. Jeremy’s return sparks further tension and uncovers even more hidden truths about the family’s past.
A Thrilling Mystery with Unpredictable Twists
As the story builds, it becomes clear that no one is truly safe, and the book continuously plays with the readers’ expectations. Michael, who had been imprisoned for a murder earlier in the book, reveals that his time in jail allowed him to find clarity. However, as the family reunion turns into a series of deadly events, it becomes clear that even those who seemed to have changed might be hiding darker sides.
In the end, the novel takes a stunning turn when the true identity of the killer is revealed. Without giving too much away, the twist involves a long-hidden family secret that shocks everyone involved.
Why You Should Read Everyone in My Family Has Killed Someone?
If you love mysteries that not only keep you guessing but also deliver unique narrative techniques, everyone in My Family Has Killed Someone is a must-read. The book’s conversational tone, witty humor, and unexpected twists make it an enjoyable read for both mystery fans and those new to the genre. While it’s a gripping tale of murder and deception, it also stands out for its clever writing and character-driven storytelling.
Overall, this book is a fun and thrilling ride that plays with mystery conventions while delivering an unforgettable story. If you enjoy puzzles, family drama, and a touch of dark humor, you won’t want to miss this book.
Final Remark
Everyone in My Family Has Killed Someone is an unforgettable murder mystery that blends dark humor with thrilling suspense. Through a unique narrative style that engages with the reader, the book offers a fresh take on the mystery genre. It’s fast-paced, filled with twists, and explores themes of family, betrayal, and the consequences of violence. Whether you’re a mystery fan or just looking for a book with unexpected twists, this novel will keep you captivated until the very last page. If you haven’t already, this is definitely a must-read for anyone who loves complex characters and a well-crafted mystery.
FAQs about Everyone in my family has killed someone
- What is everyone in My Family Has Killed Someone about?
Everyone in My Family Has Killed Someone is a gripping mystery novel about Ernest and his family, who reunite at a snowy resort for the first time in years. As they gather, a murder occurs, and the story unfolds as Ernest tries to uncover the killer while revealing the dark and violent past of his family members. - Who is the main character in the book?
The main character is Ernest, who is dealing with the aftermath of turning his brother, Michael, into the authorities for a crime. Ernest must navigate the complexities of his family’s history while trying to solve the murders that occur during their family reunion. - What makes this book different from other murder mysteries?
The book stands out for its meta-narrative style. It references itself, with the author often speaking directly to the reader and breaking the fourth wall. It’s also unique because the title, Everyone in My Family Has Killed Someone, reflects the dark history of each character, with chapters dedicated to explaining the murders that have occurred in the family’s past. - Is the book only for fans of murder mysteries?
While it’s primarily a mystery novel, everyone in My Family Has Killed Someone also includes humor, dark family drama, and unexpected twists that appeal to a wider audience. It’s a fun read for anyone who enjoys fast-paced narratives, even if they aren’t typically fans of mystery novels. - What is the significance of the title everyone in My Family Has Killed Someone?
The title reflects the central theme of the book: each family member has been involved in at least one killing, whether intentional or accidental. The story delves into the background of each murder, offering a unique take on the classic murder mystery genre. - Does the book have any major twists?
Yes! The book is filled with surprising twists, especially towards the end when the true identity of the killer is revealed. The narrative builds to a shocking conclusion, with the revelation of a long-hidden family secret that no one could have predicted.
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