Series: Castle Knoll Files #2
Author: Kristen Perrin
Publisher: Dutton
Released: April 29, 2025
Received: Library
Find it on Storygraph | More Cozy Mysteries | Mystery | Thriller
How to Solve Your Own Murder
Book Summary:
Annie Adams has officially inherited Castle Knoll after successfully solving the murder mystery revolving around the death of her aunt, Frances. She’s still settling in, and the house often feels like it is full of ghosts.
It probably doesn’t help that Castle Knoll, and thus Annie Addams, has gotten wrapped up in another murder mystery. Once again, this mystery revolves around the words of a fortune teller, and what she has to say isn’t good.
My Review:
I absolutely adored How to Solve Your Own Murder, so you can imagine my delight when I learned that it was becoming part of a series! How to Seal Your Own Fate is the second installment in the series, with How to Cheat Your Own Death releasing sometime in 2026 (I can’t wait!).
How to Seal Your Own Fate is split into two distinct parts: the present, as told by Annie’s perspective, and the past, as told through Frances’ journal. Both reveal different sides to the same investigation, but things come together in unexpected ways.
The Gravesdown estate is really starting to feel like a tiny Cabot Cove, and I don’t necessarily mean that in a bad way. That said, I don’t think I could keep living in that house without feeling haunted every moment of the day (and night!).
This novel is a cozy murder mystery with a small-town vibe and autumnal aesthetic. Maybe I’m inferring the latter, but it makes for a perfect read this time of year. Even though it is a cozy tale, there’s plenty of chills and mystery, which I adore.
Largely, How to Seal Your Own Fate sticks to the formula and style that made the first novel work so well. It may not be quite as strong as the first, but it’s still absolutely worth reading. It reveals more about the town, Frances Adams, the neighbors, etc. Likewise, we get to see a bit more about Annie’s world. However, I do hope the next novel focuses a bit more on Annie’s side of things, which the conclusion makes me think it might.
Highlights:
- Murder Mystery
- Cozy Mystery
- Perfect for fans of Knives Out
- Multiple Mysteries Rolled Into One
Trigger Warnings:
- Sexual Assault (mentioned)
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