THE RULES
1. Listen carefully
2. Do your research
3. Trust no one
4. Run for your life
Harriet Reed, a novelist on the brink of literary stardom, is newly engaged to Edward Holbeck, the heir of an extremely powerful family. And even though Edward has long tried to severe ties with them, news of the couple’s marital bliss has the Holbecks inching back into their lives.
As Harriet is drawn into their lavish world, the family seems perfectly welcoming. So when Edward’s father, Robert, hands Harriet a tape of a book he’s been working on, she is desperate to listen.
But as she presses play, it’s clear that this isn’t just a novel. It’s a confession.
A confession to a grisly crime. A murder. And, suddenly, the game is in motion.
Feeling isolated and confused, Harriet must work out if this is part of a plan to test her loyalty. Or something far darker. What is it that Robert sees in her? Why give her the power to destroy everything?
This might be a game to the Holbeck family—but losing might still prove deadly.
Praise for Catherine Steadman:
“Stylish, riveting, hugely atmospheric.”—Lucy Foley, New York Times bestselling author of The Guest List
“Thrilling and thought-provoking.”—Riley Sager, New York Times bestselling author of Survive the Night
“[A] tricky psychological puzzle . . . It’s a joy to encounter a suspenseful book whose turns lurk, rather than lumber, around the corner.”—The New York Times Book Review
“Twisty . . . highly imaginative . . . deliciously provocative.”—The Washington Post
“Perfectly thrilling.”—Vanity Fair
“Mesmerizing . . wildly imaginative . . . Suspense is peppered in all the right places.”—Associated Press SEE LESS
My Review:
Harriet is a bit of a loner. Yes, she is a super successful author who is the midst of writing her next book. And she has just become engaged to Edward, the super handsome and successful heir to a powerful family. Everything is coming up roses for Harriet.
Now, I don’t know from firsthand experience. But my inclination is to believe that super rich and powerful families are a little eccentric. How do I know this? Well, it’s clear from watching Succession that most families don’t board helicopters to go play baseball in a field on a whim, and I know that the Kennedy family has participated in some high risk activities as a clan. I think maybe part of it is that if your life is kind of super easy, you have everything you need and want in the world, you have to create challenges for yourself?
If there is any truth in my assumptions, The Holbeck family and their games make PERFECT SENSE. I actually didn’t question this part of the plot at all. However, I was able to appreciate that Harriet’s feelings about the games and family were also warranted, as she was the one forced to participate.
I don’t want to give much away as The Family Game is a wild ride. I will just tell you to block off about half a day to finish this one. Because once you start, you aren’t going to want to put it down.
Special thanks to Netgalley and Random House for an advanced galley in exchange for my honest review. This one releases today.
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