Benjamin Stevenson’s debut novel, Everyone in My Family Has Killed Someone, is a thought-provoking and unsettling exploration of the darker aspects of human nature. The story follows Dr. Richard Madden, a psychologist who is struggling to come to terms with his own dark past. As Richard delves deeper into the mysteries of his family’s past, he is forced to confront the darkest aspects of human nature and the consequences of his own actions.
Stevenson’s writing is evocative and engaging, drawing the reader into the world of the story. The characters are complex and multi-dimensional, with Richard’s inner turmoil being particularly well-portrayed. The supporting cast is equally well-developed, with each character’s motivations and backstories adding depth to the narrative.
One of the standout aspects of Everyone in My Family Has Killed Someone is its expertly crafted plot. Stevenson expertly weaves together multiple timelines and perspectives, slowly revealing the truth about Richard’s family’s dark past and the connections between the characters. The twists and turns are expertly paced, keeping the reader on the edge of their seat as they piece together the puzzle alongside Richard.
If there is a criticism to be made, it is that the novel’s pacing can be somewhat uneven at times. Some sections feel a touch slow, as Stevenson takes the time to meticulously build the tension and suspense. However, this is a minor quibble in an otherwise exceptional novel.
Everyone in My Family Has Killed Someone is a gripping and unsettling thriller that will appeal to fans of Gillian Flynn, Paula Hawkins, and Tana French. Benjamin Stevenson has demonstrated his mastery of the psychological thriller genre, crafting a novel that is both a page-turner and a deeply moving exploration of the human condition.
