Perrin's update on the classic murder mystery is impaired by its far-fetched premise and a plot that becomes convoluted rather than intricate. In addition, not all her characters' voices ring true. On the plus side, the pace never lets up and tension mounts when anonymous threats and a body in a trunk make Annie realize that her life might be in danger. The result is a fun yet flawed whodunit.
This skillfully written novel will have you completely gripped ... There are many opportunities to dig into and explore the heartbreaking details Annie discovers as she searches for answers, but these are glossed over ... As someone looking for the emotion behind the supremely personal mystery that Annie is investigating, How to Solve Your Own Murder is sorely lacking. It makes for an interesting, to-the-point story, sure, but it could have been more powerful.
The dual time lines are equally strong in exploring nuanced characters and in building tension around secrets, some possibly worth dying for, and the complex relationships are factored into both aspects.
The story eventually runs aground on the twin rocks of too much explanation and a flimsy climax. Cute dialogue gives way to lengthy exposition ... Breezy, entertaining characters and a cheeky premise fall prey to too much explanation and an unlikely climax.
