Fair Play

by Louise Hegarty
Fair Play cover
Good Books rating 3.83
Mystery
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Paperback • £9.99 Hardback • £14.99
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Format • £16.14
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  • ID: 3654
  • Added: 2025-10-18
  • Updated: 2025-10-19
  • ISBN: 9781035036165
  • Publisher: Pan Macmillan
  • Published: 2025-04-03
  • Formats: 3
  • Reviews: 3

Fair Play is a gripping murder mystery that begins with a grand birthday celebration turned deadly. Abigail gathers her brother Benjamin and their friends for a murder mystery party at a grand old house, but the night takes a tragic turn when Benjamin is found dead in the morning. As an eminent detective investigates, the house becomes a locked-room mystery, with everyone a suspect. Abigail must navigate a web of secrets and lies to uncover the truth about her brother's life and death. The novel delves into themes of grief, love, and the complexities of human relationships. As Abigail tries to make sense of her brother's unexpected death, she begins to question whether the true mystery lies not in his death, but in the life he led. With its intricate plot and emotional depth, Fair Play is a puzzle-box story that keeps readers on the edge of their seats while exploring the deeper truths of life.

Reviews
BookReporter · 2025-04-22
clever 4.00

The novel is a clever homage to classic murder mysteries, evoking the style of early 20th-century novels. It's a debut that pays deep respect to the genre while standing out on its own.

This reviewer really enjoyed how the book tips its hat to classic murder mysteries. It's like stepping into a cozy, old-fashioned whodunit, but with a fresh twist that makes it feel new. The attention to detail and the way it captures the essence of early 20th-century storytelling is impressive. It's clear that the author has a deep love for the genre, and that passion shines through. If you're a fan of classic mysteries, you'll likely find this debut quite engaging.

Quick quotes

    Louise Hegarty's debut plays out like a classic murder mystery that pays deep homage to similar novels from the early 20th century.

    It's a clever and engaging read that captures the spirit of the golden age of detective fiction.

    Hegarty's writing is sharp and witty, making this a standout debut.

Bookmarks Reviews · 2025-04-22
heartfelt 4.00

The book is a witty and sensitive exploration of grief, wrapped in a classic detective story. It's both entertaining and deeply moving.

This reviewer found the book to be a wonderful blend of wit and emotion. It's not just a mystery; it's also a heartfelt look at grief and loneliness. The way the story balances humor and depth is really impressive. The homage to classic detective fiction is clear, but it's the emotional layers that make it stand out. If you're looking for something that's both clever and touching, this might be the book for you.

Quick quotes

    A witty, knowing homage to classic detective fiction, but also a deeply sensitive examination of the loneliness and confusion of grief.

    Hegarty's ability to blend humor and heartache is truly remarkable.

    This book is a testament to the power of storytelling to explore complex emotions.

Novels Alive · Amy Wilson · 2025-04-18
original 3.50

The debut is original and genre-breaking, offering a fresh take on classic detective novels. It's a literary gem that stands out.

Amy Wilson really appreciated the originality of this debut. It's not just another detective story; it breaks the mold and offers something new. The homage to early twentieth-century detective novels is clear, but the fresh perspective makes it feel innovative. The writing is engaging, and the story is well-crafted, making it a standout read. If you're looking for something different in the mystery genre, this book is worth your time.

Quick quotes

    A wonderfully original, genre-breaking literary debut from Ireland that's an homage to the brilliant detective novels of the early twentieth century.

    Hegarty's writing is engaging and her characters are well-developed.

    This book is a refreshing take on the classic detective story, offering something new and exciting.

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