After the Funeral

Star Read: ★★☆☆☆

Summary: After the death of a beloved family member, the family gathers together for the reading of the will. They wouldn't have thought anything out of the ordinary regarding the circumstances surrounding Richard's death if it weren't for Cora, his sister, claiming he was murdered. Initially dismissing the remark, the family tries to carry on with their affairs, especially now that they are coming into some money. It isn't until Cora is found brutally murdered the following day that her comment seems to hold more weight. The family's attorney tries to piece together what information he has found out, but he seeks the aid of an old friend, the famous detective Hercule Poirot, to find justice for the deaths of Cora and her brother Richard.

Suggested age rating: 17+ based on language, some sexual references, minor violence, as well as some racism.

Review: Starting right from the beginning, the author does an excellent job setting up the intricate family dynamics as well as unique characters. Using this technique, the author creates a classic murder mystery feel to the novel, effectively drawing readers into the suspenseful atmosphere. The careful unveiling of the characters’ backstories and their interconnections builds anticipation, making the reader eager to see which of the suspects ultimately committed the murders. As with most of the author's novels, the pacing is notably slow, allowing for a deep exploration of the characters and their motivations. However, unlike in some of the author’s previous works, this particular story does not reach a climactic moment that delivers the expected thrill and resolution. Instead, it leaves readers wondering if a significant revelation will ever occur, creating a sense of uncertainty that lingers throughout. Moreover, for this being a Hercule Poirot mystery, it is unfortunate that the iconic detective does not make his appearance until more than halfway through the novel. When Poirot finally arrives, he seems to take more of a backseat role rather than commanding the narrative as one might expect. In addition to this, the conclusion to the murder mystery is not satisfying, and rather than delivering the expected twist or a moment of revelation that ties all loose ends together, the ending feels somewhat abrupt and lacking in the depth that the story initially promised. This lackluster resolution can leave readers feeling unsatisfied, as if the intricate setup and rich character development did not culminate in a worthy finale. Though this book starts strong with great characters and intriguing promises, the ending ultimately feels poorly executed, diminishing the overall impact of the narrative.

Language: 9 da**, 2 a**, 1 pu***, 3 he**, and 4 uses of the Lord's name in vain.

Indecency/Sex: Mention of a woman's figure and sex appeal. A woman is said to be wearing a skirt, a pullover, and nothing else. Paintings are said to be of nude people and makes a character uncomfortable.

Violence and Gore: Discussion of several characters being dead, war, a mausoleum, and a crematorium. Eating animal tongue, a woman dying while giving birth, children dying in infancy, and suicide are mentioned. A character is said to be brutally killed with an axe and the body is described as well as blood being present.

Frightening Scenes: None present.

Substance Abuse: Alcohol consumption and smoking are present. Mention of characters becoming drunk, having hangovers, and using drugs. Tobacco is also discussed.

Spiritual Content: A church, the Catholic religion, prayer, and monks are mentioned. A Bible verse is said and Nuns are present.

Genres: Fiction, murder mystery, mystery, detective, adult.