REVIEWS+

The Next To Die

by Sophie Hannah
Harper. (Spilling CID, Bk. 10). Feb. 2019. 416p. ISBN 9780062388353. $26.99; ebk. ISBN 9780062388377. M
COPY ISBN
Hannah's tenth "Spilling CID" title, originally published as The Narrow Bed in the UK (after Woman with a Secret), leavens a grim story of a serial killer with the darkly funny narration of protagonist Kim Trebbick. But as in all Hannah novels, the narrative shifts among many characters and plot lines. Det. Simon Waterhouse and his colleagues at the Spilling CID are stumped by the seemingly unconnected murders of two pairs of best friends linked only by the existence of small homemade books they received before their deaths. When this information is made public, the police catch a break, as Kim, a misanthrope comedian who doesn't have a best friend, was also given one of the books before the killings occurred. This provides Simon with a fresh jumping-off point; Kim is intrigued, but she worries that the murderer will be after her next.
VERDICT When it comes to complex plotting, internationally acclaimed Hannah ("Hercule Poirot" mysteries) has few equals. Her trademark slow build, as she introduces characters and the threads of their lives, may cause some readers to struggle, but those who stick with it will find the adventure well worthwhile. [See Prepub Alert, 8/20/18.]
Reviewed by Jane Jorgenson, Madison P.L., WI , Jan 02, 2019
Comment Policy:
  • Be respectful, and do not attack the author, people mentioned in the article, or other commenters. Take on the idea, not the messenger.
  • Don't use obscene, profane, or vulgar language.
  • Stay on point. Comments that stray from the topic at hand may be deleted.
  • Comments may be republished in print, online, or other forms of media.
  • If you see something objectionable, please let us know. Once a comment has been flagged, a staff member will investigate.

RELATED 

More
ALREADY A SUBSCRIBER?

We are currently offering this content for free. Sign up now to activate your personal profile, where you can save articles for future viewing

ALREADY A SUBSCRIBER?