Shari Lapena's Not a Happy Family receives praise for its fast-paced plot and intriguing family dynamics, holding readers' interest with numerous twists. Critics enjoy the well-developed characters and the suspenseful narrative. However, some note predictable elements and an over-reliance on family conflict tropes. Overall, it’s a compelling read for mystery enthusiasts.

Readers who would enjoy Shari Lapena's Not a Happy Family are fans of fast-paced, psychological thrillers with family drama and dark secrets. Ideal for admirers of Liane Moriarty's Big Little Lies and Gillian Flynn's Gone Girl, they crave intricate plots and unexpected twists.

Not a Happy Family by Shari Lapena is a psychological thriller about the wealthy Merton family, whose Easter Sunday dinner ends with parents Fred and Sheila announcing plans to sell their home, which causes turmoil among their grown children, Catherine, Dan, and Jenna. Later, Fred and Sheila are found brutally murdered, making their children the prime suspects, each with motives rooted in greed and resentment. The investigation reveals dark family secrets, unraveling a complex web of deception and betrayal. The book contains graphic descriptions of violence and murder, and themes of emotional abuse and familial conflict.

Brecken Hill, Hudson Valley / Contemporary

Shari Lapena

Adult

Novel

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Prologue-Chapter 12

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Chapters 13-25

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Chapters 26-38

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Chapters 39-50

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Chapter 51-Epilogue

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