However, I think the main weakness of the book is the convoluted nature of its ending. There is definitely a puzzle element to this tale as the reader has to consider whether one suspect has deliberately lied or been mistaken about what they saw. This assessment process after the murder is the primary focus of the narrative, with the police very much in the background. The reader has to be careful of what they choose to believe and like the suspects they need to sift the evidence and information they are given. Her choice of protagonist is partially important in this but is not the only weapon in her arsenal.

What this novel does well is its misdirection a skill I have seen Ferrars demonstrate in other mysteries she wrote. Not least being a lure for both the characters and the reader. However, Ferrars very much takes her plot in an alternative direction, having murder strike before anyone has got on the plane, and ultimately the trip away has a different purpose altogether. Perusing this description of the book, a seasoned mystery reader is likely to think that they know what sort of story they are going to be getting – the country house murder mystery on holiday. Yet when she, along with the others convene at Mark’s home before the flight, it quickly becomes apparent that more is afoot. She is the character we stay closest to during the rest of the book. It is this chance encounter which leads Mark to invite her to the weekend away, wanting someone there he can trust. She is in shock, and worried that the accident was not all that it appeared to be.

She bumps into Mark accidently on her way home, after having witnessed an accident. However, there is something special about the 9 th guest, Sarah Wing. They come from different walks of life, yet they all seem to know Mark one way or another. We begin to get an inkling as to why they might be going, as well as getting a chance to see their state of living. The story starts off with the 9 guests and their thoughts about the invitation they have received.

Murder in Time by E.X. Ferrars