A Killer Guest List by Sarah Bonner

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Sarah Bonner's new book delivered! This was so much fun. It is one of those books where the premise hooks you immediately, a murder mystery weekend that is the cover for a twisted plot of actual murders.


The story follows Sadie, an elderly murderess of bad people, who arrives at a remote retreat for her annual attendance at an immersive murder mystery experience alongside a group of guests (including her god-daughter) who, very quickly, do not feel randomly selected. There is a constant sense in the beginning that something with the game isn’t quite right. Once things start to go off-script, it becomes a full “who can you trust” situation—and I was completely in.

I loved the atmosphere here. The closed setting, the blurred lines between the game and reality, and the way the secrets are revealed piece by piece. Every time I thought I had a handle on what was going on, something shifted just enough to keep me guessing.

The characters were also a highlight for me. Sadie is a great anchor, but it’s really the group dynamic that makes this work. Everyone has a reason to be there, particularly the new guests who have never attended this by-invitation-only event before. The ending is satisfying, leaving just enough questions about what comes next.

Thoroughly enjoyed it and looking forward to the next.

Thanks to Netgalley, the author and publisher for this e-arc for review.

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