The Family Plot

May 3, 2021
Dahlia Lighthouse, the narrator of this atmospheric psychological thriller from Collins (The Winter Sister), has returned to her family’s secluded mansion on Blackburn Island for the funeral of her father, Daniel, as have her older brother, Charlie, and her sister, Tate. She’s hoping they’ll be joined by her twin brother, Andy, whom she hasn’t seen since he disappeared a decade earlier on their 16th birthday, leaving behind a note that read: “The only way out is to never come back.” Then Andy’s badly decomposed body—its skull fractured by a blow from an axe—is found in the grave that was destined for Daniel. The Lighthouses have always been a source of speculation for the islanders, and Andy’s murder leads to suspicions that his death is connected in some way to the Blackburn Killer, who murdered seven women over two decades and was never caught. In investigating Andy’s death, Dahlia must revisit her haunted childhood. Plausible suspects and complex characters match the well-crafted plot. This is an entertaining as well as chilling tale of family secrets, lies, and primordial fears. Agent: Sharon Pelletier, Dystel, Goderich & Bourret.

June 4, 2021

Collins (The Winter Sister; Behind the Red Door) explores the dark secrets of an unusual, true crime--obsessed family as they come together to bury their patriarch in the family plot behind their secluded island home, nicknamed the Murder Mansion by the locals. Ten years earlier, Dahlia Lighthouse's twin brother Andy had gone missing and was presumed to have run away; 26-year-old Dahlia has never been able to move on from his disappearance. When Andy's body is found buried in the grave meant for his father, Dahlia is quick to blame Andy's murder on the serial killer who terrorized the island for decades; the other Lighthouses react to the revelation in unsettling ways. While the writing and pacing are spot on, Collins's story lacks adequate buildup and character development. The true crime connection never quite catches on and feels superfluous, and the constant red herrings and wild goose chase for multiple killers fail to bring about the intended shock factor at the climax of the book. The resolution is just as unbelievable as the rest of the story. VERDICT Diehard mystery/thriller fans may be disappointed, and true crime fans will be confused as to why they were led here.--Siobhan Egan, Barrington P.L., RI

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