The 7 ½ Deaths of Evelyn Hardcastle – Stuart TurtonThe 7 ½ Deaths of Evelyn Hardcastle by Stuart Turton
ISBN: 9781492670124
Published by Sourcebooks on 05/07/2019
Genres: Fantasy, Mystery
Pages: 480
five-stars

Book Review

The 7 ½ Deaths of Evelyn Hardcastle by Stuart Turton

  • ISBN:  9781492670124
  • Publisher:  Sourcebooks
  • Publication Date:  05/07/2019
  • Pages:  480
  • Series:

If you love intricate mysteries with a mind-bending twist, The 7 ½ Deaths of Evelyn Hardcastle by Stuart Turton should be next on your list. This novel takes the classic murder mystery formula and turns it into something completely unique—a genre-blending mix of Groundhog Day, Agatha Christie, and Inception.

The story follows Aiden Bishop, a man trapped in a time loop at Blackheath, a crumbling manor filled with suspicious guests. Each day, Evelyn Hardcastle is murdered, and Aiden must solve the crime to break free. But there’s a catch: every morning, he wakes up in the body of a different guest, each with their own skills, weaknesses, and secrets. With only eight hosts and a limited number of chances, Aiden must piece together the truth before time runs out.

Turton’s writing is sharp, immersive, and fast-paced. The constant shifts in perspective make for an electrifying narrative, as Aiden struggles not only to solve the murder but also to understand who he really is and why he’s trapped in this bizarre cycle. The atmosphere is gothic and eerie, with the sprawling mansion setting evoking classic whodunit vibes.

For readers who love a challenge, The 7 ½ Deaths of Evelyn Hardcastle delivers. It’s a brilliantly crafted puzzle, filled with twists that will keep you guessing until the very end.  I really enjoyed the pace and change of perspectives as Aiden passed from one character to another, I was quickly passing chapter after chapter, and the plot twist in the end smacked me right in the face.  I never saw it coming and it completely changed my perspective.  If you enjoy high-concept mysteries with rich storytelling, this book deserves a spot on your shelf.

About the Author:

Stuart Turton is a British author known for his genre-blending, mind-bending mysteries. Best known for his debut novel, The 7 ½ Deaths of Evelyn Hardcastle, he combines intricate plotting with immersive storytelling. His books, including The Devil and the Dark Water, mix historical fiction, suspense, and clever twists, keeping readers captivated until the end.

Similar Books to Consider:

  • The Guest List.  Lucy Foley.  ISBN  9780062868947
  • Magpie Murders.   Anthony Horowitz.  ISBN  9780062645234
  • The Devil and Dark Water.  Stuart Turton  ISBN  9781728234298
  • Murder on the Orient Express.  Agatha Christie  ISBN  9780062073495
Getting to Know

Steven Gregory

As someone who grew up in southeast Michigan with deep roots in the auto industry—nearly every member of my family worked in it—my path seemed pretty set. But I always felt the pull toward something more. I became the first in my family to earn a college degree, working my way through to a BA from Concordia University Ann Arbor, and later, a graduate diploma from the University of St. Michael’s College in the University of Toronto.

Now, forty years into a career as a Supply Chain professional, I find myself turning the page to the next chapter. Outside of work, I’m happiest with a book in hand, planning my next travel adventure, hitting the bike trails, or spending quality time with good friends. I’m also a proud dad to a special education teacher, and I still call Ann Arbor home, where I live with my partner, our two rescue dogs, and three very opinionated cats.

five-stars

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