Review of "The Guest List" by Lucy Foley

Review of "The Guest List" by Lucy Foley

Lucy Foley’s The Guest List is a character drama masked as a mystery thriller. The opening chapter sets up a murder mystery, but we don’t know who died until the end of the book. It allows suspense to build throughout the novel. The story is set on a secluded Irish Island with caves and graveyards during a storm. The setting creates an eerie atmosphere that helps heighten the tension of the mystery.

Foley’s writing blends classic whodunit elements with modern suspense that focuses on the characters. The narrative is told from multiple character viewpoints. The switch between characters adds to the chaos of the mystery. Each character carries secrets, grudges, and hidden motivations, making everyone a potential suspect. With every new chapter the characters reveal a small part of the larger picture that leads into the mysterious death.

One of the novel’s greatest strengths is its setting. Foley uses this claustrophobic environment to great effect, crashing waves, looming cliffs, and unpredictable weather mirror the emotional storms. Jealousy, betrayal and guilt fuel the guests motives and create controversy amongst each other. The author skillfully examines how long-buried resentments can lead to conflict with others and unfortunate consequences.

While this book might be a slow burn, it keeps the reader engaged by constantly layering the character drama and making us sympathetic with some characters and disliking others. Several times throughout the novel I thought I had guessed who the murdered victim would be only to change my mind repeatedly, truly leaving the end a mystery.

However, the book does fall into certain narrative traps, such as having characters hide information for someone for no reason. Or having certain characters not knowing each other, when it seems like they probably should have based on their friendship circles. But without those tropes there would be no mystery, it would just be a murder.

Overall, The Guest List is a compelling, tightly plotted novel that delivers twists, tension, and a satisfying payoff. Foley delivers a solid suspense novel that balances atmosphere, with character development, and mystery. I don’t think this book would be for everyone, because it is character driven and a slow burn. But if the plot seems intriguing to you, then I recommend giving this book a read.