Review of Everyone on This Train Is a Suspect: A Novel
By Benjamin Stevenson
When I first picked up Everyone on This Train Is a Suspect, I was charmed by the author’s previous work, Everyone in My Family Has Killed Someone. Benjamin Stevenson had already proven he could weave humor and suspense with a deft hand, so naturally, I was eager to hop aboard this latest literary journey—set on the iconic Ghan train traveling through the Australian deserts.
From the moment I stepped into the pages of this cleverly constructed murder mystery, I was entranced. The premise is deceptively simple yet brilliantly executed: a group of crime writers, invited to a festival aboard the luxurious train, find themselves embroiled in a real-life murder mystery. Talk about an immersive experience! Each character is a delightful caricature of the literary world, ranging from the pompous blockbuster author to the quirky debut novelist (our narrator, Ernest Cunningham). Stevenson paints them vividly, revealing both their professional rivalries and personal grudges, which set the stage for a delectably tangled web of suspicion.
The themes of perception and identity run deep in this novel. It is, in many ways, a meta-commentary on the genre itself, exploring what it means to be a “writer” in a world where everyone is a suspect. The humor is sharp and refreshing; I particularly enjoyed Ernest’s deadpan observations, such as, “the less wealthy you are, the better you tend to dress for expensive events.” Stevenson has a talent for balancing wit with genuine insight, which keeps the narrative buoyant and engaging.
The pacing is a topic of varied opinions among readers. Personally, I found the gradual unfolding of the plot to be quite effective. It allowed me to savor each reveal and consider the implications of every hasty accusation. As the characters turned into amateur detectives, the story transformed into a delightful puzzle, with Stevenson sprinkling clever clues that encouraged me to play armchair detective. The twists are well-timed, leaving me audibly gasping at a couple of revelations towards the end.
One of the standout moments for me was when a character reflects, “How can you find a killer when all the suspects know how to get away with murder?” This line encapsulates the book’s witty self-awareness and complexity—an astute reminder that in a world of cunning minds, appearances can be deceiving.
For anyone who enjoys a good old-fashioned whodunit with a modern twist, this book is a must-read. Fans of Agatha Christie will appreciate the homage while simultaneously reveling in Stevenson’s unique voice. Even readers who might be new to the mystery genre will find the lighthearted humor and engaging narrative accessible and entertaining.
Ultimately, Everyone on This Train Is a Suspect offers much more than just entertainment; it delivers a delightful reminder of the intricacies of human behavior and the masks we wear. If you’re looking for a fun read that balances murder with wit, then grab your ticket and hitch a ride with Stevenson—it’s a journey you won’t want to miss!
You can find Everyone on This Train Is a Suspect: A Novel here >>