The thrilling mystery, The Death of Mrs. Westaway, contained red herring after red herring, throwing me off during most of the climax and conflict resolution. I thought I had it all figured out until another clue was introduced. I believe I was just as confused and on-edge as Hal, the narrator.
Hal Westaway was at rock bottom. She was only twenty-one, living alone, in debt up to her ears. Now, the "broken teeth...broken bones..." (Ware 222) debt collector was on her case. Not only was she not going to be able to pay back this loan or make rent, she couldn't afford to eat. And just when it looks like she was going to have to take drastic measures to stay afloat, she got a letter saying she was to inherit some money. This would have been the answers to her prayers, except...well, she wasn't related to Mrs. Westaway. Hal had to decide whether or not she was going to lie to these people and take the money or to tell the truth. With the help of her mother's diary, a family photo album, and some recalled facts from the help long ago, Hal is able to put the pieces together. The antagonists are not exactly who she thought they were, nor were her allies. All of these conflicts provide a chilling mystery and intense conclusion.
- 5 stars! (Note: Ruth Ware is a British author. Beware some terminology that may be tricky.)
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