I was surprised to see that the groomsman, Will, was not one of the main POVs and this immediately made me suspicious of his intentions. The murder is revealed at the beginning and is explored through the eyes of five characters as an added layer of mystery and suspense. The Guest List is written through various narratives and involves several time jumps, a mechanism that works to its advantage and encourages the reader to keep guessing. Several strange and awkward encounters lead to a murder at the limelight of the book. The couple’s guest list includes a mix of old school friends and close family members and their differences in background and upbringing are highlighted as the day progresses. Julia and Will are hoping to stun the guests at their exclusive wedding due to take place on a remote island. Who didn’t wish the happy couple well? And perhaps more important, why?” The bride’s oldest (male) friend gives an uncomfortably caring toast.Īnd then someone turns up dead. The bridesmaid not-so-accidentally ruins her dress. The groomsmen begin the drinking game from their school days. As the champagne is popped and the festivities begin, resentments and petty jealousies begin to mingle with the reminiscences and well wishes. The cell phone service may be spotty and the waves may be rough, but every detail has been expertly planned and will be expertly executed.īut perfection is for plans, and people are all too human.

It’s a wedding for a magazine, or for a celebrity: the designer dress, the remote location, the luxe party favors, the boutique whiskey. The bride: smart and ambitious, a magazine publisher.

The groom: handsome and charming, a rising television star. “ On an island off the coast of Ireland, guests gather to celebrate two people joining their lives together as one.

Reviews of the guest list