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The Murder List
When Mary receives a blank diary as a present, she thinks nothing of it. Until she opens the diary, and sees it’s not blank after all…
1st January MURDER LISA, OXFORD
1st February MURDER JANE, BIRMINGHAM
1st March MURDER DAVID, CARDIFF
1st April MURDER MARY, CHELTENHAM
Is this some kind of sick joke? But…it’s the end of January now. And a woman named Lisa was murdered in Oxford on 1st January.
Does that mean there really is a killer out there, planning to commit a new murder on the first of each month? And is the Mary due to be killed on 1st April her?
The clock is ticking for Mary to uncover the truth, before she becomes the next victim on the killer’s list…
1st January MURDER LISA, OXFORD
1st February MURDER JANE, BIRMINGHAM
1st March MURDER DAVID, CARDIFF
1st April MURDER MARY, CHELTENHAM
Is this some kind of sick joke? But…it’s the end of January now. And a woman named Lisa was murdered in Oxford on 1st January.
Does that mean there really is a killer out there, planning to commit a new murder on the first of each month? And is the Mary due to be killed on 1st April her?
The clock is ticking for Mary to uncover the truth, before she becomes the next victim on the killer’s list…
350 pages, ebook
First published May 31, 2022
About the author
Jackie Kabler
13 books384 followersJackie Kabler is a journalist, TV presenter and author. She spent twenty years as a TV news reporter for GMTV, ITV and BBC news, and now works as a presenter for shopping channel QVC and is author of the Cora Baxter Mysteries, a series of murder mysteries set in a television newsroom.
The Development is her third novel. Jackie lives in Gloucestershire with her husband, who is a GP.
The Development is her third novel. Jackie lives in Gloucestershire with her husband, who is a GP.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 482 reviews
May 5, 2022
I enjoyed the first 80 percent of this novel. Mary receives a journal for Christmas, which is a common gift given to a colleague, so she doesn’t even look at it until a month after the holiday, when she’s about to throw it out but realizes she should know who sent it so she can send a thank you card. Instead, what she finds is four names, dates, and places. It says “January 1, murder Lisa, Oxford.” There are two more names and then April 1, murder Mary, Cheltenham.” When she learns a woman named Lisa was murdered on January 1 in Oxford, she takes the book to the police.
The first part this moves so quickly as the police try to figure out what the three people before Mary have in common. For me, I didn’t love the ending, and I can’t tell you why without giving things away.
Thanks to NetGalley for the opportunity to review this novel, which RELEASES MAY 31.
The first part this moves so quickly as the police try to figure out what the three people before Mary have in common. For me, I didn’t love the ending, and I can’t tell you why without giving things away.
Thanks to NetGalley for the opportunity to review this novel, which RELEASES MAY 31.
May 5, 2022
This was a wild ride that I really enjoyed once I got into it. It centers on Mary, a freelance crime writer who receives a diary/planner that just has a name and location on 4 different days. The first day has already passed and someone with that name and in that city was murdered. As if that isn't scary enough, Mary's own name is 4th on the list. The story alternates between Mary's POV in the first person and that of the various police detectives working on the case, in the 3rd person.
The story itself is sound- it's fast paced with many different twists, some which were huge surprises. Mary was a belieavable character and the things she did, while not always being the right things, made sense. I did figure out the motive for the killings before the characters did, but didn't figure out the villain themselves until quite late.
It did take me a little bit to get into the book, and I think it was due to the writing style- the switch between voices from chapter to chapter was somewhat jarring and I felt that the early chapters involving the police detectives had somewhat stilted dialogue that didn't cleanly flow for me. I don't know whether I just got used to it or if the style changed, but that didn't bother me anymore after the first quarter of the book.
Overall, I thought this was a fun mystery and love when I am stumped on who did it. I'd recommend this to those who like mysteries and psychological thrillers, with a little taste of police procedural. Thanks to Netgallay for providing me a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
The story itself is sound- it's fast paced with many different twists, some which were huge surprises. Mary was a belieavable character and the things she did, while not always being the right things, made sense. I did figure out the motive for the killings before the characters did, but didn't figure out the villain themselves until quite late.
It did take me a little bit to get into the book, and I think it was due to the writing style- the switch between voices from chapter to chapter was somewhat jarring and I felt that the early chapters involving the police detectives had somewhat stilted dialogue that didn't cleanly flow for me. I don't know whether I just got used to it or if the style changed, but that didn't bother me anymore after the first quarter of the book.
Overall, I thought this was a fun mystery and love when I am stumped on who did it. I'd recommend this to those who like mysteries and psychological thrillers, with a little taste of police procedural. Thanks to Netgallay for providing me a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
May 14, 2022
When Mary receives a blank diary as a present, she thinks nothing of it. Until she opens the diary and sees it's not blank after all.
1st January MURDER Lisa, Oxford.
1st February MURDER Jane, Birmingham.
1st March MURDER David, Cardiff.
1st April MURDER Mary, Cheltenham.
Is this some kind of a sick joke? But it's the end of January now. And a woman named Lisa was murdered in Oxford on the 1st January. Does this mean there really is a killer out there, planning to commit a new murder on the 1st of each new month? And is the Mary due to be killed on the 1st April her?
This fast paced read had me hooked from the beginning. It's cleverly written and full of twists. I had no idea who the killer was. The characters were complex. but believable. This creepy and tense read held my attention throughout, even though there were many questions going round my head whilst reading - is Mary really the Mary on the list? Will they find the killer before they get to her? I couldn't put this book down until I had turned the last page.
I would like to thank #NetGalley #HarperCollinsUK #OneMoreChapter and the author #JackieKabler for my ARC of #TheMurderList in exchange for an honest review.
1st January MURDER Lisa, Oxford.
1st February MURDER Jane, Birmingham.
1st March MURDER David, Cardiff.
1st April MURDER Mary, Cheltenham.
Is this some kind of a sick joke? But it's the end of January now. And a woman named Lisa was murdered in Oxford on the 1st January. Does this mean there really is a killer out there, planning to commit a new murder on the 1st of each new month? And is the Mary due to be killed on the 1st April her?
This fast paced read had me hooked from the beginning. It's cleverly written and full of twists. I had no idea who the killer was. The characters were complex. but believable. This creepy and tense read held my attention throughout, even though there were many questions going round my head whilst reading - is Mary really the Mary on the list? Will they find the killer before they get to her? I couldn't put this book down until I had turned the last page.
I would like to thank #NetGalley #HarperCollinsUK #OneMoreChapter and the author #JackieKabler for my ARC of #TheMurderList in exchange for an honest review.
December 18, 2024
2.5
Oh, dear! How did this book go from a 5 to a grudging 2 star read??
The beginning was really intriguing and the plot gave off a 90s serial killer movie vibe. You know how those go… there is a serial killer in town and the police are baffled and the protagonist’s life is in danger. There are twists and red herrings and stuff and at the end it turns out the boyfriend or the grandmother’s pretty nurse or the roommate’s brother’s nicely behaved girlfriend is the killer?
Well, this book started like that, but then the plot became ridiculously laughable. The twists were too twisty and the herrings were too red that a child would realize their redness was artificial.
The culprit was a caricature of a murderer and the main character was ugh… I was hoping someone would kill her sooner rather than later. And the police? Didn’t do poop! They just convened and discussed the case ad nauseam.
On a positive note, I got to know what every character was wearing and how their hairdo looked like on a daily basis. 🙄
Oh, dear! How did this book go from a 5 to a grudging 2 star read??
The beginning was really intriguing and the plot gave off a 90s serial killer movie vibe. You know how those go… there is a serial killer in town and the police are baffled and the protagonist’s life is in danger. There are twists and red herrings and stuff and at the end it turns out the boyfriend or the grandmother’s pretty nurse or the roommate’s brother’s nicely behaved girlfriend is the killer?
Well, this book started like that, but then the plot became ridiculously laughable. The twists were too twisty and the herrings were too red that a child would realize their redness was artificial.
The culprit was a caricature of a murderer and the main character was ugh… I was hoping someone would kill her sooner rather than later. And the police? Didn’t do poop! They just convened and discussed the case ad nauseam.
On a positive note, I got to know what every character was wearing and how their hairdo looked like on a daily basis. 🙄
June 9, 2022
Thanks to HarperCollins One More Chapter for this one!
This was fantastic! A real page turner, and full of twists to keep me guessing!
The Murder List has echoes of The Hit List by Holly Seddon, which has a very similar premise, but in my opinion, this one was better!
I feel that the short chapters with the timeline on each, coupled with the different POVs, really helped keep the reader engaged throughout.
There were plenty of clues, and I suspected everyone! My favourite type of thriller!
Kabler does a superb job of saying every thought the reader might have, and every clue dropped is analysed thoroughly.
And that ending too! Even as it happened, I didn't know who to trust!
Loved it.
This was fantastic! A real page turner, and full of twists to keep me guessing!
The Murder List has echoes of The Hit List by Holly Seddon, which has a very similar premise, but in my opinion, this one was better!
I feel that the short chapters with the timeline on each, coupled with the different POVs, really helped keep the reader engaged throughout.
There were plenty of clues, and I suspected everyone! My favourite type of thriller!
Kabler does a superb job of saying every thought the reader might have, and every clue dropped is analysed thoroughly.
And that ending too! Even as it happened, I didn't know who to trust!
Loved it.
June 2, 2022
When Mary, a freelance crime writer receives a diary in the post near Christmas she thinks nothing of it, another present from a colleague. But when she eventually opens it there are 4 entries in it at the start of the each month with the word kill, a single name and a town. The last entry is for April 1st - Kill Mary Cheltenham. As the first name on the list turns up murdered in the town that matches the name also, she realises she may have a serial killer on her hands and one that is letting her know she will be the last on the list. Can she and police find out who it is before her time comes?
This is a cool idea and the book for the most part zips along nicely. There is plenty of tension as you try to figure out what’s going on and it’s ramped up as the weeks pass and we get closer to April.
The negatives here. Some of the dialogue, especially among the police is really shoddy and poorly written. Takes you right out of the story. Also the red herrings felt really clumsily handled as they were pushed so much in your face you knew it was a vehicle for apparent distraction.
The last 20% of the book totally falls apart and sinks into the ludicrous and also tacks on and extra 2-3 chapters that were totally unnecessary.
I sound like I’m pretty down on this book and I am because it was a great premise and it has some great moments. It just suffers from some poor writing and the old adage of losing the run of itself and having twists that seem to be there for the sake of it, not really adding to the story but taking away from it.
2.5 stars rounded up to 3 because, despite the criticism I enjoyed large chunks of this pretty original tale.
Thanks to the publisher for the ARC through Netgalley.
This is a cool idea and the book for the most part zips along nicely. There is plenty of tension as you try to figure out what’s going on and it’s ramped up as the weeks pass and we get closer to April.
The negatives here. Some of the dialogue, especially among the police is really shoddy and poorly written. Takes you right out of the story. Also the red herrings felt really clumsily handled as they were pushed so much in your face you knew it was a vehicle for apparent distraction.
The last 20% of the book totally falls apart and sinks into the ludicrous and also tacks on and extra 2-3 chapters that were totally unnecessary.
I sound like I’m pretty down on this book and I am because it was a great premise and it has some great moments. It just suffers from some poor writing and the old adage of losing the run of itself and having twists that seem to be there for the sake of it, not really adding to the story but taking away from it.
2.5 stars rounded up to 3 because, despite the criticism I enjoyed large chunks of this pretty original tale.
Thanks to the publisher for the ARC through Netgalley.
April 26, 2022
Woah! OMG! Wow!
What a book!
So incredibly clever, and I had strong gut feelings as to who was behind everything and was completely dumfounded by the finale as a result.
There is so much more to many of the characters than meets the eyes. There are many red herrings, and I'm never really sure how things would turn out.
For everything is pointing to the fact that on 1st April, Mary will die, and she is our main character, and main view point, and you get to know her well as she tries along with the police to see if they can track down the diary killer before it gets to her turn.
It is such a fabulous concept and so great to see how the police could react if they are given a partial threat to a common first name, city and date but nothing else to go on whether they will take it seriously, how they can even remotely comprehend keeping people in their town safe etc..
I loved the snippets from the four police forces working together to try identify and catch this potentially sick and twisted person.
I thought the previous Jackie Kabler psychological thrillers were fantastic, and this one ramps up the writing, the tension, the generally addictiveness. I couldn't get enough of it, and it is utterly amazing.
Had me completely hooked and it even seemed to help combat my long covid exhaustion as I was feeling really alert from reading this fabulous story.
Thank you to One More Chapter and Netgalley for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
What a book!
So incredibly clever, and I had strong gut feelings as to who was behind everything and was completely dumfounded by the finale as a result.
There is so much more to many of the characters than meets the eyes. There are many red herrings, and I'm never really sure how things would turn out.
For everything is pointing to the fact that on 1st April, Mary will die, and she is our main character, and main view point, and you get to know her well as she tries along with the police to see if they can track down the diary killer before it gets to her turn.
It is such a fabulous concept and so great to see how the police could react if they are given a partial threat to a common first name, city and date but nothing else to go on whether they will take it seriously, how they can even remotely comprehend keeping people in their town safe etc..
I loved the snippets from the four police forces working together to try identify and catch this potentially sick and twisted person.
I thought the previous Jackie Kabler psychological thrillers were fantastic, and this one ramps up the writing, the tension, the generally addictiveness. I couldn't get enough of it, and it is utterly amazing.
Had me completely hooked and it even seemed to help combat my long covid exhaustion as I was feeling really alert from reading this fabulous story.
Thank you to One More Chapter and Netgalley for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
May 24, 2022
This book was brilliant, a real twisty, page turner. I was hooked from page one until the end which really shocked me as I wasn’t expecting it. I love books like this that leave you wanting more. I didn’t know about this author but I hope there is more from her. My thanks to Netgalley and the publishers for giving me the opportunity to read this book in return for an honest review.
December 17, 2023
A solid mystery that continually twists and turns, adding extra flavour to the narrative with every revelation. However, the ending, whilst serviceable enough, doesn't compare to how well Kabler manages to execute the build-up. The final chapter just doesn't do justice to the suspense and tension that carries the story for about 70% of the read. That being said, it is an enjoyable and fast-paced read that's well worth a look, especially for fans of the genre.
August 4, 2022
⭐⭐⭐⭐
This was a thoroughly entertaining and quick read. The first 80% was fantastic and had me hooked. The final 20% was a bit farfetched and eye roll worthy. That said, I didn't see any of the twists coming, so kudos to the author for that. This definitely gets two thumbs up from yours truly.
**ARC Via NetGalley**
This was a thoroughly entertaining and quick read. The first 80% was fantastic and had me hooked. The final 20% was a bit farfetched and eye roll worthy. That said, I didn't see any of the twists coming, so kudos to the author for that. This definitely gets two thumbs up from yours truly.
**ARC Via NetGalley**
August 22, 2022
This was an enjoyable read and I liked how many twists that the writer added into the plot. However, I do think it lacked a bit of pace that I was expecting.
With a mysterious diary that seems to predict the murders of four apparent strangers, I was intrigued how Kabler would develop the storyline. Although names and locations are provided, the police still don’t have enough to feel they are in a position of preventing the crimes from taking place. What I enjoyed so much about this book was how readers follow the different police investigations that connect these random strangers: we are not stuck in one office but see how developments are occurring around the country.
I think this element made the story so strong because the plot doesn’t follow the potential victim, Mary, but the police procedure as well. I liked seeing the police gather over video calls to compare notes, admitting how clueless they feel about the Diary Killer’s clues. In my opinion, it added more variety to the story and showed how different work forces tackled the threats.
However, I think I was anticipating a plot that was more pacey and packed a punch. I felt that often the story was merely counting down calendar days until the beginning of the month, with just a lot of chat and suspicions in between. For instance, I found Mary’s interviews with relatives linked to the victims to be quite tedious and I felt this really slowed the pace considerably. Personally, I had a very strong suspicion about the perpetrator but was glad when Kabler proved me wrong… it just took a while to get there.
Even until the very end, the writer has a few more surprises to give and they were definitely unexpected. This added depth to the narrative and I liked how Kabler was able to manipulate the reader. Although I did predict some developments, I liked the curve balls that were thrown in too.
This was an enjoyable read with an unusual storyline. Even with some sparse information, the police are racing against time to prevent murders being committed. Mary was surprisingly level-headed as the 1st April, her “day” approached and I can honestly say I would have fled the country at the first opportunity! I think I might have to check any blank diaries I might receive as gifts from now on…
With thanks to One More Chapter, Harper Collins and NetGalley for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
With a mysterious diary that seems to predict the murders of four apparent strangers, I was intrigued how Kabler would develop the storyline. Although names and locations are provided, the police still don’t have enough to feel they are in a position of preventing the crimes from taking place. What I enjoyed so much about this book was how readers follow the different police investigations that connect these random strangers: we are not stuck in one office but see how developments are occurring around the country.
I think this element made the story so strong because the plot doesn’t follow the potential victim, Mary, but the police procedure as well. I liked seeing the police gather over video calls to compare notes, admitting how clueless they feel about the Diary Killer’s clues. In my opinion, it added more variety to the story and showed how different work forces tackled the threats.
However, I think I was anticipating a plot that was more pacey and packed a punch. I felt that often the story was merely counting down calendar days until the beginning of the month, with just a lot of chat and suspicions in between. For instance, I found Mary’s interviews with relatives linked to the victims to be quite tedious and I felt this really slowed the pace considerably. Personally, I had a very strong suspicion about the perpetrator but was glad when Kabler proved me wrong… it just took a while to get there.
Even until the very end, the writer has a few more surprises to give and they were definitely unexpected. This added depth to the narrative and I liked how Kabler was able to manipulate the reader. Although I did predict some developments, I liked the curve balls that were thrown in too.
This was an enjoyable read with an unusual storyline. Even with some sparse information, the police are racing against time to prevent murders being committed. Mary was surprisingly level-headed as the 1st April, her “day” approached and I can honestly say I would have fled the country at the first opportunity! I think I might have to check any blank diaries I might receive as gifts from now on…
With thanks to One More Chapter, Harper Collins and NetGalley for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
March 21, 2023
I enjoyed this story! It was clever and unique but I did spot the obvious twists and the murder fairly early on BUT this didn't spoil the book.
I've already recommended this to a friend, who has also told me the same things as me (good read, obvious twists but still good)
I've already recommended this to a friend, who has also told me the same things as me (good read, obvious twists but still good)
May 12, 2022
This book just wasn’t for me. I am in the minority! Seems like everyone else is loving this. THe first 40%had me intrigued and interested. Started to slow down for the middle 25% but then picked back up. First few pages were explosive and left me wanting more information about the fire. Plot alternated between Mary and the police investigation. There were quite a bit of police involved as multiple sites were part of a task force. Mary’s back story isn’t revealed until the end as a “twist” For many readers, I’m sure this worked for some readers. . I knew something was odd about her history but it felt rushed or like the expected “got ya” moment to me.
Many suspect red herrings that were very obvious. As soon as Mary became suspicious and convinced that one of her friends or coworkers was involved, it was clear she was wrong. The real killer was a little surprising but there weren’t many options either by the time it was revealed. I enjoyed parts of this but felt the pacing was off.
Other readers have loved it!
Thank you to NetGalley and HarperCollins for the ARC in exchange for my review.
Merged review:
This book just wasn’t for me. I am in the minority! Seems like everyone else is loving this. THe first 40%had me intrigued and interested. Started to slow down for the middle 25% but then picked back up. First few pages were explosive and left me wanting more information about the fire. Plot alternated between Mary and the police investigation. There were quite a bit of police involved as multiple sites were part of a task force. Mary’s back story isn’t revealed until the end as a “twist” For many readers, I’m sure this worked for some readers. . I knew something was odd about her history but it felt rushed or like the expected “got ya” moment to me.
Many suspect red herrings that were very obvious. As soon as Mary became suspicious and convinced that one of her friends or coworkers was involved, it was clear she was wrong. The real killer was a little surprising but there weren’t many options either by the time it was revealed. I enjoyed parts of this but felt the pacing was off.
Other readers have loved it!
Thank you to NetGalley and HarperCollins for the ARC in exchange for my review.
Many suspect red herrings that were very obvious. As soon as Mary became suspicious and convinced that one of her friends or coworkers was involved, it was clear she was wrong. The real killer was a little surprising but there weren’t many options either by the time it was revealed. I enjoyed parts of this but felt the pacing was off.
Other readers have loved it!
Thank you to NetGalley and HarperCollins for the ARC in exchange for my review.
Merged review:
This book just wasn’t for me. I am in the minority! Seems like everyone else is loving this. THe first 40%had me intrigued and interested. Started to slow down for the middle 25% but then picked back up. First few pages were explosive and left me wanting more information about the fire. Plot alternated between Mary and the police investigation. There were quite a bit of police involved as multiple sites were part of a task force. Mary’s back story isn’t revealed until the end as a “twist” For many readers, I’m sure this worked for some readers. . I knew something was odd about her history but it felt rushed or like the expected “got ya” moment to me.
Many suspect red herrings that were very obvious. As soon as Mary became suspicious and convinced that one of her friends or coworkers was involved, it was clear she was wrong. The real killer was a little surprising but there weren’t many options either by the time it was revealed. I enjoyed parts of this but felt the pacing was off.
Other readers have loved it!
Thank you to NetGalley and HarperCollins for the ARC in exchange for my review.
June 13, 2022
If like me you enjoy playing armchair detective then I wish you good luck with this book. I had more theories than a loony conspiracist and my number one suspect was more changeable than the weather here in the uk.
Mary was a brilliantly believable protagonist but the people in her life were seriously shady (insert Eminem song). I mean imagine being given advance warning of your own murder and having to look closely at everyone you interact with on a daily basis. Friends, family, colleagues, maybe even your friendly barista who serves you your daily fix of coffee every morning. Any one of them could be plotting to kill you and you don’t have long to work it out as the rest on the list are quickly dropping like flies. Soon it will be your turn!
I had quite a strong theory fairly early on in this book as one character stood out like a sore thumb and I found their behaviour a bit strange, so imagine my surprise later on when it looked like I was actually going to be right for a change. Then the author may as well have clocked me round the head with a tennis trophy as I was so mistaken. That wasn’t the only thing I got wrong either and my head was spinning when all was finally revealed.
Part thriller, part police procedural and with a great premise this is a fast paced read with clues, misdirections, twists and a killer ending!
Mary was a brilliantly believable protagonist but the people in her life were seriously shady (insert Eminem song). I mean imagine being given advance warning of your own murder and having to look closely at everyone you interact with on a daily basis. Friends, family, colleagues, maybe even your friendly barista who serves you your daily fix of coffee every morning. Any one of them could be plotting to kill you and you don’t have long to work it out as the rest on the list are quickly dropping like flies. Soon it will be your turn!
I had quite a strong theory fairly early on in this book as one character stood out like a sore thumb and I found their behaviour a bit strange, so imagine my surprise later on when it looked like I was actually going to be right for a change. Then the author may as well have clocked me round the head with a tennis trophy as I was so mistaken. That wasn’t the only thing I got wrong either and my head was spinning when all was finally revealed.
Part thriller, part police procedural and with a great premise this is a fast paced read with clues, misdirections, twists and a killer ending!
April 27, 2022
The Murder List ! Jackie Kabler is the author of The Perfect Couple and The Happy Family - this is her new psychological thriller and it's fast moving fun.
Mary works in a publishing house and things nothing of the journal that arrives on her desk during the holidays. It's not until a month later that she realizes there is a list of names, dates and towns.
It quickly becomes clear that a person is schedule to be murdered the first of the month. As the police attempt to find answers, Mary herself is a suspect. She is increasingly more and. more nervous as the April 1st date looms and the name Mary is written down next. Can she get to the bottom of this before the killer finds her?
This was fast moving and a quick thriller. It was not thoroughly engrossing but I enjoyed it and you will too! If you like procedurals, mysteries with psychological themes then The Murder List is for you! #harpercollins #harpercollinsuk #onemorechapter
Mary works in a publishing house and things nothing of the journal that arrives on her desk during the holidays. It's not until a month later that she realizes there is a list of names, dates and towns.
It quickly becomes clear that a person is schedule to be murdered the first of the month. As the police attempt to find answers, Mary herself is a suspect. She is increasingly more and. more nervous as the April 1st date looms and the name Mary is written down next. Can she get to the bottom of this before the killer finds her?
This was fast moving and a quick thriller. It was not thoroughly engrossing but I enjoyed it and you will too! If you like procedurals, mysteries with psychological themes then The Murder List is for you! #harpercollins #harpercollinsuk #onemorechapter
May 31, 2022
I became a fan of Jackie Kabler after reading The Perfect Couple (if you have not already read this one, you need to!!) . I was completely intrigued by the synopsis for The Murder List, and I just knew I had to request it! The cover made it even that much more enticing!
The Murder List, is the type of book that leads you in one direction and you believe you have it all figured out and then a major plot twist gets thrown in your face.
Talk about a sucker punch!
As soon as I started, I knew I would not be able to stop. Chapter one instantly pulls you right in and will keep your attention. The slow exposures to what is being unveiled are craftfully done.
I thoroughly enjoyed this fast paced psychological thriller and I believe you will too! Out May 31, you do not want to miss this!
The Murder List, is the type of book that leads you in one direction and you believe you have it all figured out and then a major plot twist gets thrown in your face.
Talk about a sucker punch!
As soon as I started, I knew I would not be able to stop. Chapter one instantly pulls you right in and will keep your attention. The slow exposures to what is being unveiled are craftfully done.
I thoroughly enjoyed this fast paced psychological thriller and I believe you will too! Out May 31, you do not want to miss this!
July 6, 2023
I enjoyed 10% of the book and then it became a bit wild where every single person had a motive, planting of red herrings galore and there was literally no plot development. I was persevering til the end and when it was revealed I wanted to throw my kindle at the wall. What a cop out - did not even make sense and wasn’t remotely clever!
June 26, 2022
When Mary Ellis receives a seemingly innocent diary for Christmas, she doesn't think anything of it. Gathering donations for the charity shop in January, she grabs the diary and flicks through. Realising there are 4 months marked, she looks closer. 4 months, 4 murders. The first has already happened - and the last is hers.
I love these 'murder list' style stories! They have such a way of gripping me, making me wonder who it is / what the connection is. This one did not disappoint!
A fantastic story that had me hooked the whole way through - I did not expect the killer OR the secret! An absolute shocker of a story!
I love these 'murder list' style stories! They have such a way of gripping me, making me wonder who it is / what the connection is. This one did not disappoint!
A fantastic story that had me hooked the whole way through - I did not expect the killer OR the secret! An absolute shocker of a story!
August 19, 2023
Wow!! Great read, plenty of suspense and twists to the storyline, kept me hooked all the way through, great characters, didn’t guess who the killer was till the end which is always a bonus.
June 3, 2022
An Intense Thriller........................
The Murder List by Jackie Kabler is what a good thriller looks like. The suspense and thrill of the plot is worth to count on. Marvelous climax and characters makes it one of the best thrillers of this year. A dessert for mystery lovers. The book is so entertaining that I finished it within a day only as it is a real page turner. A plot that is fully absorbing with a mind blowing climax.
Definitely, 5 stars to the book. Thanks to Netgalley, Rachel's Random Resources and One More Chapter for providing me an opportunity to read and review the book.
Read more on bibliophileverse.blogspot.com
The Murder List by Jackie Kabler is what a good thriller looks like. The suspense and thrill of the plot is worth to count on. Marvelous climax and characters makes it one of the best thrillers of this year. A dessert for mystery lovers. The book is so entertaining that I finished it within a day only as it is a real page turner. A plot that is fully absorbing with a mind blowing climax.
Definitely, 5 stars to the book. Thanks to Netgalley, Rachel's Random Resources and One More Chapter for providing me an opportunity to read and review the book.
Read more on bibliophileverse.blogspot.com
April 2, 2023
Such a good book idea + loads of plot twists ngl
August 3, 2022
3 stars
Dr House was right: everybody lies.
This was an okay book with an interesting premise. Its slight reference, from my POV, to The A.B.C. Murders got me interested. The writing was good if a bit sedate. It was not a page turner as the bulk of the book prior to 1st April was very low in action and with placid recounting of inefficient police and journalist work, but I forged on as I wanted to see how it would unfold.
Well, the identity of the killer, , was a bit surprising but could have been guessed if one actually thought about it (which is not my style of course, preferring to enjoy the journey rather than rack my brains) but the psychology of it all was a bit lacklustre in the end for my enjoyment.
I was much more interested by the light love story between Mary and Pete in the background, and the final twist was okayish (better than the killer reveal at least) even if cruel all things considered, and possibly silly as well considering that . But okay, I could read through it and roll my eyes at the same time. Weirdly, even with her flaws, I did like Mary's character.
In summary, a book that was nice to read once. But most probably not to be re-read someday.
P.S. To Mary: backed by my Feng Shui knowledge, if you don't want creeps to assail unduly your personal space by springing in your back, then arrange your laptop and seat so that you face the open space 🙄😤!
Trivia note: the book was written in 3rd person for chapters dealing with police investigation, while adopting a 1st person voice for the chapters from Mary's POV.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 27, 2022
I absolutely loved The Murder List by Jacke Kabler! I was immediately intrigued by the premise of the book - Mary Ellis receives a diary/planner as a Christmas gift that has first names and cities written in on the first day of January, February, March, and April. It becomes clear that these people are being targeted for murder and April 1st lists the name "Mary" and the city in which she lives!
The Murder List is one of those books that once you start it, you won't want to put it down. The story is told from the point of view of Mary and from the various detectives who are trying to solve the murders that have already taken place as well as trying to prevent any more deaths. The police procedural elements of the story are good additions to this thriller.
There is so much tension in this story, and I had to keep reading to find out what would happen next. That level of tension continues to increase as the story gets closer and closer to the first of April. There are so many suspicious characters that I kept changing my mind about who the killer was and ultimately I was way off! There are a lot of plot twists along the way and although I was able to figure out a couple of them, I was still truly shocked by others. Sometimes I question Mary's decisions, but the reason she makes some of the choices she does becomes more clear by the end of the book. The ending is both surprising and satisfying. This is a fast-paced, suspenseful thriller that I highly recommend.
I received an advance copy of this ebook from the publisher at no cost, but my review is voluntary and unbiased.
The Murder List is one of those books that once you start it, you won't want to put it down. The story is told from the point of view of Mary and from the various detectives who are trying to solve the murders that have already taken place as well as trying to prevent any more deaths. The police procedural elements of the story are good additions to this thriller.
There is so much tension in this story, and I had to keep reading to find out what would happen next. That level of tension continues to increase as the story gets closer and closer to the first of April. There are so many suspicious characters that I kept changing my mind about who the killer was and ultimately I was way off! There are a lot of plot twists along the way and although I was able to figure out a couple of them, I was still truly shocked by others. Sometimes I question Mary's decisions, but the reason she makes some of the choices she does becomes more clear by the end of the book. The ending is both surprising and satisfying. This is a fast-paced, suspenseful thriller that I highly recommend.
I received an advance copy of this ebook from the publisher at no cost, but my review is voluntary and unbiased.
May 1, 2022
The murder list by Jackie Kabler.
When Mary receives a blank diary as a present, she thinks nothing of it. Until she opens the diary, and sees it’s not blank after all…
I really really enjoyed this book. Great story and characters. Kept me gripped. I liked Mary. Pete I wasn't sure. What a twist. Didn't see that coming. 5*.
When Mary receives a blank diary as a present, she thinks nothing of it. Until she opens the diary, and sees it’s not blank after all…
I really really enjoyed this book. Great story and characters. Kept me gripped. I liked Mary. Pete I wasn't sure. What a twist. Didn't see that coming. 5*.
April 10, 2023
Do not read. This is truly awful.
May 27, 2022
I read this book as part of a readalong with One More Chapter. So firstly I would just like to say thank you to them for setting this up. I had so much fun reading this book, taking part in the challenges and discussing the chapters with the other bloggers.
Now time to tell you my thoughts…
This book The Murder List was INCREDIBLE from the beginning… ‘The run up to christmas is always a strange time. Not nearly enough dead bodies’ – the first line and my eyes were popped out!! The first freaking line. I think after that kind of introduction you are in for one hell of a ride… and I was right!! Probably the only thing I was right about like.
Let me just tell you something, for all you want to be detectives out there… this book is a case you can not crack!! no matter how hard you think about it!!
The story follows the main character Mary and four police forces trying to figure out who the killer could be, alongside trying to figure out the connection between the victims. Everyone is stumped. And everyone is on high alert and suspicion. And still…. Confusion!
The suspense in this book is something you will never have sat through before! As this was a readalong I paced myself as I was given what chapters to read. But, if it was me alone I would probably have devoured it in one sitting. It was so hard to put down.
Twist, after twist, after twist!
Just when you thought you knew what could be happening, another name is added to your list! Then you suspect someone else – THEN something else is thrown into the mix and it leaves you…
And that keeps happening right until the very end!
You will second guess yourself, YOU CAN NOT TRUST ANYONE!!
Now I admit this review probably doesn’t give justice to this book, because it was THAT AMAZING!! This is a book I would highly recommend to EVERYONE!
Now time to tell you my thoughts…
This book The Murder List was INCREDIBLE from the beginning… ‘The run up to christmas is always a strange time. Not nearly enough dead bodies’ – the first line and my eyes were popped out!! The first freaking line. I think after that kind of introduction you are in for one hell of a ride… and I was right!! Probably the only thing I was right about like.
Let me just tell you something, for all you want to be detectives out there… this book is a case you can not crack!! no matter how hard you think about it!!
The story follows the main character Mary and four police forces trying to figure out who the killer could be, alongside trying to figure out the connection between the victims. Everyone is stumped. And everyone is on high alert and suspicion. And still…. Confusion!
The suspense in this book is something you will never have sat through before! As this was a readalong I paced myself as I was given what chapters to read. But, if it was me alone I would probably have devoured it in one sitting. It was so hard to put down.
Twist, after twist, after twist!
Just when you thought you knew what could be happening, another name is added to your list! Then you suspect someone else – THEN something else is thrown into the mix and it leaves you…
And that keeps happening right until the very end!
You will second guess yourself, YOU CAN NOT TRUST ANYONE!!
Now I admit this review probably doesn’t give justice to this book, because it was THAT AMAZING!! This is a book I would highly recommend to EVERYONE!
May 29, 2022
Mary Ellis is a freelance crime writer. She has an office at a place called The Hub because she prefers working away from home. Her housemate is Pete who has a girlfriend named Megan.
As Mary and Pete are gathering things to giveaway, some of which are various Christmas gifts she received from people. She got a desk calendar from someone who failed to leave their name. Opening it, she sees notes on some pages listing a first name, a date and the city where they are to be murdered. It matches a name of someone who has been murdered and further down, she sees her own name, Mary. Shocked, she takes it to the police to be investigated.
Mary’s father was a famous author of crime novels. He was killed in a house fire that also injured Mary. He left her a lot of money some of which she put into buying her large home. Having her good friend Pete as her housemate makes her feel safe.
As hard as the police work, they are unable to find the potential people to be murdered before it’s too late. Now, Mary is next!
The tension in this story builds well making me imagine Mary biting her nails as “the day” approaches. Even as some truths are revealed, I still could not understand why Mary would be targeted. I had an idea or two who the killer could be but I was totally wrong. I was a bit disappointed when the killer was revealed because it seemed so unbelievable. However, the story is solid and I think readers will enjoy this thriller.
Copy provided by NetGalley in exchange for a fair and honest review.
As Mary and Pete are gathering things to giveaway, some of which are various Christmas gifts she received from people. She got a desk calendar from someone who failed to leave their name. Opening it, she sees notes on some pages listing a first name, a date and the city where they are to be murdered. It matches a name of someone who has been murdered and further down, she sees her own name, Mary. Shocked, she takes it to the police to be investigated.
Mary’s father was a famous author of crime novels. He was killed in a house fire that also injured Mary. He left her a lot of money some of which she put into buying her large home. Having her good friend Pete as her housemate makes her feel safe.
As hard as the police work, they are unable to find the potential people to be murdered before it’s too late. Now, Mary is next!
The tension in this story builds well making me imagine Mary biting her nails as “the day” approaches. Even as some truths are revealed, I still could not understand why Mary would be targeted. I had an idea or two who the killer could be but I was totally wrong. I was a bit disappointed when the killer was revealed because it seemed so unbelievable. However, the story is solid and I think readers will enjoy this thriller.
Copy provided by NetGalley in exchange for a fair and honest review.
June 4, 2022
The story starts on Christmas Eve. Mary Ellis is in her early thirties and works as a freelance crime writer in Cheltenham. She receives a desk diary for Christmas, but doesn’t know who it’s from. When she gets round to looking at it, it contains a list of apparent murders to take place in the first four months of the year – the dates, names of the victims and locations. One stands out – “1st April - Murder Mary, Cheltenham.”
I mean, what an EXCELLENT idea for a novel! Who doesn’t want to read that to find out what happens? And it’s a page turner. You immediately feel for Mary and wonder what she is going to do and if she is going to survive the book! You also start suspecting all the people she knows.
I loved the way the different police forces interacted, and you got to know the main players in each one. It was really interesting to follow the investigation this way. I enjoyed the scenes with the police on Zoom calls discussing where they were at.
This is a really good psychological thriller. It’s perfectly paced, there’s never a boring bit and there are lots of twists and turns. As with all the best books in this genre, you end up thinking you’ve got it all worked out, only for things to tip completely on their head and another theory comes to the forefront. It’s very well written and I really enjoyed it.
I mean, what an EXCELLENT idea for a novel! Who doesn’t want to read that to find out what happens? And it’s a page turner. You immediately feel for Mary and wonder what she is going to do and if she is going to survive the book! You also start suspecting all the people she knows.
I loved the way the different police forces interacted, and you got to know the main players in each one. It was really interesting to follow the investigation this way. I enjoyed the scenes with the police on Zoom calls discussing where they were at.
This is a really good psychological thriller. It’s perfectly paced, there’s never a boring bit and there are lots of twists and turns. As with all the best books in this genre, you end up thinking you’ve got it all worked out, only for things to tip completely on their head and another theory comes to the forefront. It’s very well written and I really enjoyed it.
June 2, 2022
This is such a clever tale, and I had strong feelings as to who was behind everything but ended up gobsmacked by the end result. The characterisation is brilliant with more to many of the characters than meets the eye. There are abundant red herrings and I was completely hooked by the tale. Mary who works in publishing receives a diary on Christmas Eve and when she takes a look at it everything is pointing to the fact that on 1st April, Mary will die. Told from mainly Mary's viewpoint, the reader gets to know her well as she tries along with the police to track down the diary author and killer before it's her turn. Speedily-paced, suspenseful and atmospheric, it's well-executed with terrific plotting and I didn't want to put it down. Smartly done and unpredictable.
I received a complimentary copy of this novel at my request from One More Chapter via NetGalley. This review is my own unbiased opinion.
I received a complimentary copy of this novel at my request from One More Chapter via NetGalley. This review is my own unbiased opinion.
June 6, 2022
A phenomenal thriller that had me pulled in from the beginning. Truly remarkable and amazingly unpredictable, this is an easy five-star read. With a fast-paced storyline, breath-taking plot twists and an utterly unforeseen and brilliant conclusion, this is a definite must-read for all thriller fans!
Admittingly, I have read books by this author before, so knew of her writing style. This was the main reason I wanted to read this, and ‘The Murder List’ is now my favourite piece of work by her. Jackie Kabler’s ability to create a suspenseful and intense atmosphere is up there with the very best.
Mary, the main character, is relatable and incredibly likeable with her intelligent yet personal aspects of this mystery. I was sorry when this book came to an end.
I highly recommend this, if you couldn’t already tell, and am looking forward to reading more by this author in the future.
(Thank you, Rachel’s Random Resources and One More Chapter, for a gifted copy of this book, in exchange for an honest and voluntary review.)
Admittingly, I have read books by this author before, so knew of her writing style. This was the main reason I wanted to read this, and ‘The Murder List’ is now my favourite piece of work by her. Jackie Kabler’s ability to create a suspenseful and intense atmosphere is up there with the very best.
Mary, the main character, is relatable and incredibly likeable with her intelligent yet personal aspects of this mystery. I was sorry when this book came to an end.
I highly recommend this, if you couldn’t already tell, and am looking forward to reading more by this author in the future.
(Thank you, Rachel’s Random Resources and One More Chapter, for a gifted copy of this book, in exchange for an honest and voluntary review.)
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