Emma Rous Knihy

You are cordially invited to play a game at Raven Hall... When Beth was fourteen, she was invited into Raven Hall, a rambling, isolated manor house in the English countryside. The family who lived there were warm and welcoming, and Beth soon became firm friends with their daughter, Nina. At times, Beth even felt like she was truly part of the family... But then they asked her to play a very strange game - and nothing was the same again. Now, after years of abandonment, Raven Hall has been restored to its former glory and is playing host to an evening of murder mystery... But why does the tragic past of this imposing house seem to have such a hold on everyone? Is this really just a game, or a murder mystery for real? The guests are about to find out - with devastating consequences.

Seraphine Mayes and her brother Danny are the first twins born at Summerbourne House, but their birth is marred by tragedy: their mother’s suicide and the mysterious flight of their au pair. Now twenty-five and grieving her father's recent death, Seraphine discovers a family photograph from the day of their birth, showing only one baby with their parents. This revelation leads her to question her identity and the truth behind her mother’s death. As she delves deeper, Seraphine becomes obsessed with the idea that she and Danny may not be twins after all and that the au pair, who vanished that fateful day, may hold the key to their family’s dark secrets. The narrative is described as entrancing and atmospheric, reminiscent of classics, and features vivid characters and a tightly woven plot that culminates in a jaw-dropping climax. Readers are captivated by the mystery and intrigue, with many noting the book as a gripping page-turner that keeps them engaged until the last page. The story promises a blend of family secrets, gothic elements, and a shocking denouement, making it a compelling debut from a promising new author.