“Lauren is flirting with my fiancé over the dinner I spent hours preparing. She gets this way when she’s had too much wine. I’m not far behind her; I’m already into my second glass of merlot. I’m not even sure why I’m drinking – I usually don’t. But tonight, Nathan and I are planning to announce our engagement.”
After Nightfall
By A.J. Banner
Published: August 2018
Source: Advance review copy
The celebratory dinner should have been just that, a time to celebrate her upcoming wedding but Marissa’s enthusiasm is diminished by some of the actions of her guests and her own growing sense of unease at having brought her best friend back into her life.
The dinner is fraught with tension from all of the guests, snide remarks, unreadable looks and Marissa lays all fault with her friend after all Lauren has always been selfish and self-centered. The next morning on her walk to the beach she finds Lauren’s body, bruised and lifeless along the shore.
Marissa recalls details from the previous evening that make her question those around her and their intentions. Who could have wanted to hurt Lauren and who would have the most to gain by her death? In addition Marissa is now unsure of her own feelings towards her fiancé but when she questions him she doesn’t know if she is wanting to hear the truth.
I thought this novel started out with a lot of great tension, and I could clearly envision a dinner gone awry. As the novel progresses everyone is a suspect and the author provides the reader just enough background to go from believing it is one suspect to doubting yourself and moving on to the next. I found this to be a good thriller and will look for more by this author.
Sounds good. Will have to check it out. 🙂
This author sounds familiar, but after googling her, I don’t recognize any of her books. This sounds like it could be good, so I’ll add it to my list.
Finally getting back to visiting my favorite blogs. I feel like I’ve been away from the blogosphere for a long time!
I have just gone back and read all of your posts that I missed while we were traveling and I wanted to tell you how very sorry I was to read about the sudden loss of your mother-in-law. I can only imagine how hard it must be to not only have such an unexpected loss, but to be so far away and unable to travel with you husband. I’m so sorry, Iliana. I’m thinking of you and sending you a big virtual hug. Take care of yourself, dear friend. Cherish those memories of the good times shared. xo
I noticed this book a while back, but I think yours is the first review I’ve read. I suspect it will find a way onto my Kindle at some point. Sounds like one I’d like. I like that cover somehow – not really sure why.
I’ve read one book by this author, The Twilight Wife. Haven’t read anything else, though. Glad you enjoyed it. 🙂
Another author to add to my list! 🙂
I love it when an author keeps me guessing. This sounds like a lot of fun.