As a fan of a good crime book I couldn’t resist this title – but the book that awaited me far exceeded my expectations. From the outset it was clear that The Best Way to Bury Your Husband by Alexia Casale would expertly balance humour and darkness.

The book sees four women trapped in abusive relationships, with the added strain of lockdown each one snaps and kills their partner. The topic is treated with such dignity and respect from the beginning. We see four experiences each of which are very different, but it puts the power in the hands of the women and brings them together in a really beautiful way.

Humour is at the core of this book and even though, on paper, that may seem like it would trivialise the topic it actually feels more empowering. In their darkest moments, our protagonists find light and freedom. I loved every second of their journey in discovering themselves and by the end of the book, you truly do love each of the characters.

The criminal parts of this was brilliant. The way they puzzled out how to get away with murder was genius and I was rooting for them the whole way through. The dynamics of the group brought enough tension to keep it entertaining and bring the humorous side to it as well. You’re kept guessing and will find yourself also pondering the best ways to get away with murder.

This was such a surprising read in so many ways, but beautifully empowering. Funny, tense and poignant – I highly recommend giving this one a go. It doesn’t matter if ‘crime’ isn’t usually your thing; this book defies genre. Undoubtedly one of my favourites of the year, this is well worth giving a go.

Thank you to NetGalley, Viking and Alexia Casale for an advanced copy in return for an honest review.