The Twelve Days of Murder

Calling all dark academia + cozy mystery + drama club girlies!
While I loved the concept and usually enjoy multiple timelines, this one felt a little too convoluted and drug on for a bit too long. I would've been happier if it was edited down by about 100 pages. It was also a little too “cozy” of me. Ultimately, I prefer more thrilling thrillers.
My biggest complaint is petty- but the title trips me up every time I talk about this book. I always say “The Twelves Murders of Christmas”. IT WAS RIGHT THERE!

Thank you to NetGalley for the advanced audio of The Twelve Days of Murder.

Book Review: A Festive Whodunit: The Twelve Days of Murder

Rating: 4 stars

Summary:
The story revolves around eight friends who formed an exclusive group called The Masquerade Murder Society during their college years. While the murders they solved were once fictional and brilliantly staged, their final Christmas Masquerade took a dark turn when one of their own vanished without a trace. Now, twelve years later, the remaining members receive an invitation to a reunion in the Scottish Highlands.

Upon arrival, each friend is assigned a new identity based on the “Twelve Days of Christmas.” The festivities begin, reminiscent of old times, until the shocking discovery of Lady Partridge's lifeless body hanging from a pear tree. As the game turns deadly and long-held secrets resurface, Charley, an outsider to the group, must use her discerning eye to uncover the truth before becoming the next victim.

Review:
This book truly captivated me from start to finish. The combination of a festive backdrop and a suspenseful murder mystery created an atmosphere that was both thrilling and enjoyable. Cordani skillfully weaves together elements of suspense, intrigue, and holiday spirit, making The Twelve Days of Murder the perfect read for the holiday season.

One aspect that stood out to me was the well-developed characters. Each member of the Masquerade Murder Society had their own unique personality and motives, which added depth to the story. Charley, in particular, stood out as the relatable outsider who becomes entangled in a web of deceit and danger. Her perspective as an outsider added an interesting dynamic to the narrative and allowed readers to piece together clues alongside her.

The pacing of the novel was also well-executed. The author expertly balanced moments of tension and suspense with moments of reflection and character development. This kept me engrossed in the story, eagerly turning the pages to uncover the truth behind the intriguing murder game.

Furthermore, Cordani's descriptive writing style transported me to the enchanting Scottish Highlands. The vivid imagery brought both the beauty and eerie atmosphere of the setting to life, enhancing the overall reading experience.

In conclusion, The Twelve Days of Murder is a delightful whodunit that will entertain readers during the holiday season. With its festive backdrop, well-developed characters, and skillful blend of suspense and holiday cheer, this book is a must-read for fans of mystery novels. Andreina Cordani has crafted a thrilling tale with unexpected twists and a satisfying resolution that will leave readers satisfied and eagerly anticipating her next work.

⚠️This review was written based on personal opinions and experiences with the book. Individual preferences may vary⚠️