Book Review: The Dinner Guest by B P Walter

Thank you HarperCollins UK, One More Chapter and NetGalley for this gifted e-ARC of The Dinner Guest by B P Walter, in exchange for an honest review.

There are four guests at the dinner table – Titus, Charlie, Matthew and Rachel – and one murder. But who done it?

Wow! I feel like this is the perfect adjective to start the review. I am rendered quite speechless at this absolutely incredible thriller. Walter writes the most unpredictable and unexpected story that I am still thinking about after completing the book. This book provides another burning wish – that I’m sure many of you will relate to – of longing to go back in time just to relive the story again with the unknown. There is no greater feeling than being truly gripped to a book but also devastation that the same feeling can’t be replicated again. However, I would hazard a guess that a second reading would closely match the first. Walter’s stunning plot quickly hooks the reader and combined with suspense and thrill asserts full engagement. I read this so quickly, I just had to know who it was and I can confirm that I was wrong. I had my theories racing in my mind as I tried to read through every page to find the answer. I was convinced I cracked it but was delightfully wrong which further fuelled the absolute unpredictability of The Dinner Guest. Even though all the times I have watched/read Sherlock didn’t help.

I am going to write this into existence now, we need a film adaptation! I can clearly see this being translated so well on screen. All the characters are intriguing and with the flashbacks the author displays helps the reader connect more and solve the crime with important backstories. The narrative switches perspectives between Charlie and Rachel, before and after the murder. This helps in offering more insight to their lives and the situation that unfolds at the dinner table. The context was imperative and is presented in such a captivating way. Charlie and Matthew live a seemingly perfect life with their son Titus and I enjoyed reading these segments. Walter conveys their way of life in a brilliant way that clearly depicts the authors intentions. Along with the juxtaposing Rachel. At times you will be rooting for her and questioning her. I found myself to have a love hate relationship with the devious character. I have a lot I want to say but fear the risk of spoilers but all I can say is that you do not want to miss out on this page turner.

This book is packed full of twists and turns that takes the story in some remarkable directions. Throughout reading this novel I constantly had questions swirling in my mind begging for answers. Some answers were revealed yet Walter leaves impressionable marks throughout. The themes are rooted in blackmail, deception, crime, mystery and suspense. The author captures the essence of all these themes in an outstanding way.

Overall, this highly addictive and engrossing thriller that will compel all readers. I strongly recommend this book to all, especially fans of thriller and mystery. The suspense will constantly keep you on the edge of your seat desperate for the reveal. Once you start I can guarantee you will not put this masterpiece down.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Rating: 5 out of 5.

Thank you for reading my review!

Meg x