The 7 1/2 Deaths of Evelyn Hardcastle by Stuart Turton is a mind-bending murder mystery that takes place over the course of a single day. The book follows a man named Aiden Bishop, who wakes up in the body of a different guest at a sprawling country estate every day. He is tasked with solving the murder of Evelyn Hardcastle, which will break the cycle and allow him to escape the time loop he is trapped in.

One of the most impressive aspects of the book is its intricate plotting. Turton weaves together a complex web of clues and red herrings, creating a mystery that is both challenging and satisfying. The story is told from multiple perspectives, which adds to the complexity of the narrative.

The characters in the book are also well-developed and distinctive. Each guest at the estate has their own secrets and motivations, which are gradually revealed over the course of the story. Aiden Bishop himself is a compelling protagonist, struggling to solve the mystery while also grappling with the challenges of inhabiting a different body each day.

The setting of the country estate is also expertly crafted, with Turton creating a sense of claustrophobia and tension that permeates the entire story. The estate is filled with secrets and hidden passages, which adds to the intrigue of the mystery.

One of the most unique features of the book is its incorporation of time travel elements. The time loop that Aiden is trapped in adds an extra layer of complexity to the story, forcing the protagonist to navigate multiple timelines and versions of events. This creates a sense of unpredictability that keeps the reader engaged throughout the entire book.

Turton also explores themes of identity, memory, and morality in the book. Aiden’s experiences inhabiting different bodies force him to question his own sense of self, while the mystery itself raises questions about the nature of memory and perception. The moral implications of the murder and the actions of the different characters are also explored in depth.

The 7 1/2 Deaths of Evelyn Hardcastle is a brilliantly crafted murder mystery that combines elements of time travel, suspense, and psychological exploration. The book is a must-read for fans of the genre, offering a fresh and unique take on the classic whodunit.