I don’t know but am I the only one who is thinking that the market is getting flooded with murder mysteries these days? Well to be honest I’ve no qualms atleast the market is not flooded with college romance. So, coming back to the point, among this crowd of murder mysteries, “Happily murdered” is like a breath of fresh air.Happily murdered is the debut book of Rasleen Syal and for her debut book she has done an exceptional job. Her writing is lucid and sharp. This book is a perfect blend of narration and storytelling and the author’s grip overt the story is commendable with no beating around the bushes and bang on approach.
Gulab sarin was ecstatic but later she was found dead on her wedding night. Prime suspects of her murder are her in-laws, her husband, her friend and ex-lover, all living under one roof. Where some have a solid purpose other have some small issues with Gulab but what makes the whole case complicated was the fact that everyone is having their own reason to kill Gulab.There were too many characters and all of them had their own share of limelight and every one was convincing. The characters looked culprit and innocent at the same times. For me the character of Ned and Sara were the most interesting one.The best and the most unique part of the book is that it doesn't focuses on police investigation or some sharp minded over the top intelligent detective (which is common in every single book). The command in the story is in the hands of the suspects and they are the one who are finding the true murderer among them. The story line is engaging and conspicuous. The language is perfect and so as the flow. I loved the parts in which the soul of Gulab was talking to the readers though it always reminds me of “I am red” which was my first murder mystery but then these are two different books and no comparison. There are too many characters and there is inter-personal relation between all of them. At times it looks deliberate and but it added a lot in the suspense factor. The story goes little dramatic at times and the reason behind that murder is not very convincing but it doesn't mean it was senseless or ineffective, it was indeed on an emotional side and perfectly manages to convey the pain hiding behind. There are some minor flaws which can be ignored easily.Overall, I believe it’s a very entertaining book with every possible element inside it, be it pain, romance, thrill or confusion. This is a must read book for thriller fans and even not-so-thriller-type-readers will find this book interesting. This book is definitely worth reading. RATED- 4/5
