This latest murder mystery from the author has plenty to grip and excite – but the characters and their actions feel slightly predictable.
Set in the glamorous Italian location, something much darker happens in this story of power, corruption and of course murder which beautifully unfolds over the course of several days.
Tom Hindle’s latest book is filled with fantastic twists and turns as Robyn and her partner Toby turn up in Italy for a family wedding – but it is clear from the start that relationships between the family and guests are fraught. At the centre of it all are the couple themselves: Eva Bianchi an Italian influencer and her wealthy partner Laurence Hayward – neither of them are particularly nice, so it seems perfectly natural that their wedding day doesn’t go according to plan. But can the person responsible for everything that happens be caught before it gets out of control is the question.
While on the surface, Hindle’s book is filled with glamour in its description of the are and details of the wedding, what is really fascinating is how the reader gets to discover Robyn’s theories on the murder as well as the other guests through their insights, with each theory cleverly interwoven. He has also managed to create elaborate backstories for each of the key players which keeps the reader guessing as to what is going to happen next: there is plenty of drama and tension to enthral.
However, it does have to be said that aside from Robyn, many of the characters are distinctly unlikeable so it is difficult to care what happens to them during and after the events that occur. But equally, it shows how power and corruption can push people to the most despicable of acts, showing humanity in many ways at its worst that adds a darkness that contrasts nicely to the glamorous surroundings.
Yet, this being said it is a fast-paced, breathless story that is impossible to put down as arguments and motivations are uncovered that the ending is a real surprise that I definitely didn’t see coming!
The whole set up of the story and the way in which it unfolds has a distinctive Agatha Christie vibe to it – the characters being stuck in a confined space with nowhere to go, the way accusations and suspicions are handled and of course the final confrontation which is keeps the reader on the edge of their seat.
It has been tightly written and you get a sense throughout that there was certainly more than one way in which it could of ended. Murder on Lake Garda is a thrilling and exciting read that is perfect for anyone who enjoys a well crafted murder mystery to read.
By Emma Clarendon
Murder on Lake Garda is available to buy now.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐