1. About the Author: Cara Hunter
Cara Hunter is a bestselling British author known for her gripping and psychologically layered crime novels. A graduate of Oxford University, she previously worked in advertising before turning to writing full-time. She rose to fame with her Detective Adam Fawley series, which quickly became a fan favorite among crime fiction readers.
Hunter’s writing style is marked by immersive narratives, emotional depth, and an innovative use of mixed-media formats such as emails, texts, articles, and transcripts. Her work often tackles complex societal themes through the lens of a murder investigation.
Murder in the Family is her first standalone novel outside the Fawley series, and it retains her signature storytelling strengths while pushing the boundaries of crime fiction structure.
2. About the Narrators: James Goode, Rupert Farley, Colin Mace, Olivia Dowd, Lisa Armytage
The audiobook version of Murder in the Family features an outstanding full-cast performance by James Goode, Rupert Farley, Colin Mace, Olivia Dowd, and Lisa Armytage. Each narrator voices a different character, giving the audiobook a cinematic, documentary-style atmosphere.
James Goode and Rupert Farley deliver deep, gripping performances for the male leads, while Olivia Dowd and Lisa Armytage bring emotional nuance to the female characters. Colin Mace offers a standout portrayal with strong monologues that deepen the psychological tension.
Their clear, expressive narration and seamless transitions elevate the audiobook, making it an engaging and immersive experience, especially with the novel’s unconventional structure.
3. About the Book: Murder in the Family
Murder in the Family centers on the unsolved 2003 murder of Luke Ryder, a stepfather whose case is reopened decades later through a true-crime TV show. The story unfolds through emails, text messages, tabloid clippings, production notes, and transcripts—giving readers the feeling of watching a real documentary.
This innovative novel belongs to the crime thriller genre and stands out for its unique format and gripping narrative. Instead of traditional chapters, the book is composed entirely of media snippets and investigative materials.
- Average rating on Goodreads: 3.73/5 from over 45,000 readers.
- Genre: Crime, psychological thriller, mixed-media narrative.
- Special features: Non-traditional storytelling format with no standard chapters.
- Awards/sales: While no major awards have been noted, it has been widely praised for its innovation and execution.
4. Book Review: Murder in the Family
Overall Evaluation
Murder in the Family is bold, refreshing, and cleverly constructed. Cara Hunter’s decision to tell the story through a series of media fragments gives the novel an authentic, voyeuristic edge that sets it apart from typical crime fiction.
Plot and Characters
The plot is multi-layered and filled with twists, keeping readers constantly questioning the truth behind Luke Ryder’s murder. Each character is vividly portrayed with distinct motivations and personal secrets. The shifting perspectives offer a deep dive into complex relationships, especially within families.
Strengths
- Innovative storytelling approach through mixed-media.
- Rich, unpredictable plot full of suspense.
- Realistic portrayal of media and public opinion in true-crime culture.
Weaknesses
- Some readers may find the format harder to follow, especially those used to linear narratives.
- The pacing may feel uneven due to format transitions.
Overall, Murder in the Family is an excellent choice for readers looking for something outside the traditional crime novel mold.
5. Audiobook Review: Murder in the Family
Narration and Production
The audiobook version of Murder in the Family is a masterclass in immersive audio storytelling. With multiple narrators and layered sound design, it feels more like listening to a true-crime podcast or dramatized documentary.
Pros
- Expressive and emotionally resonant performances.
- Clear distinction between characters through casting.
- Maintains suspense and engagement throughout.
Cons
- The mixed-media format requires close attention, which might not suit casual listening.
- May not be ideal for audiobook beginners unfamiliar with dramatized formats.
The audiobook has been positively received by both critics and listeners, making it one of the standout productions in recent crime fiction.
6. Who Should Read This Book?
Murder in the Family is perfect for:
- Fans of modern crime thrillers and mystery novels.
- Readers seeking a fresh and unique narrative structure.
- True-crime documentary enthusiasts.
- Experienced audiobook listeners looking for high-quality, multi-voice performances.
The book will also appeal to fans of shows like Making a Murderer, Serial, or The Staircase, offering a similar investigative vibe in fiction form.
7. Conclusion
Murder in the Family by Cara Hunter is a brilliant and daring novel that reinvents the crime genre through innovative storytelling. Its gripping plot, complex characters, and masterfully produced audiobook make it a must-read (or must-listen) for mystery fans.
Whether you’re reading it traditionally or exploring the audiobook, this novel is a captivating experience that lingers long after the final twist.
Add Murder in the Family to your reading or listening list today—this is one crime story you won’t forget.
8. Where to Listen
You can listen to the Murder in the Family audiobook on the following platforms:
- Audible (Amazon): Includes the full-cast performance.
- Audiobooks.com: Offers streaming and offline listening.
Consider signing up for a membership with Audible or Audiobooks.com to enjoy unlimited audiobook access, anytime, anywhere.
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