What is it: a classic who-dunnit
Did I like it: I-dun
This book was intended for the no. 13 slot of the reading challenge but there was a waiting list at the library and by the time I could collect it, I had already read the Banned books of Berlin instead. I ended up reading the city-books back to back, so this book is kind of a bonus to the category, like a 13-b.
The story is about Jess, who goes to visit her brother in Paris but when she arrives at his apartment he’s not there. This is odd because he had left her a voice note in which he gave her the address along with instructions on how to get there and told her he would be waiting for her. In his apartment she finds his wallet, as well as the keys of his Vespa so why would his friends and neighbours all suggest that he took a spontaneous trip out of the city?
Jess is determined to find out where Ben is and what the other people in the building are hiding.
This mystery borrows heavily from the classic gothics: a picturesque setting for a house that gives off a sense of unease. Clearly, something is wrong here but it’s more a feeling than anything tangible. There are echoing footsteps in the dark, creaking floorboards and hidden doors.
Jess newly arriving at the apartment building, has the reader come along with her on her exploration of the building and meeting the people living there.
The chapters switch point of views between Jess and Ben’s neighbours and it quickly becomes clear that everybody has something to hide and everybody is a suspect. The chapters are short, and the book reads fast and easy.
If you’re looking for a modern classic who-dunnit, be sure to pick up this book.
Also, the artwork of this book is cool, from the cover art to the chapter headings.
Bookworm in the City 