The Last Murder at the End of the World

Turton’s (The Devil and the Dark Water) latest is a skillful blend of postapocalyptic science fiction, dystopian fiction, mystery, and thriller. A deadly fog sweeps the world, killing everything it touched. Decades later, nothing remains, save one remote island populated by 122 villagers and three elders. The residents live an orderly life, but their peace is upended when one of their beloved scientists, a long-lived elder, is found dead. They are also shocked to discover that the security system keeping the fog at bay is failing. The clock is ticking, and if they don’t solve the murder, all on the island will perish. James Cameron Stewart offers a straightforward, almost newslike narration of the events. The matter-of-factness of his performance adds to the suspense as truths unfold, decisions are made, and the race to save everyone—human or otherwise—is on.