The Hunting Party is a gripping novel by Lucy Foley, following a group of friends who embark on an annual trip to a remote hunting lodge in Scotland. The novel is structured around the events leading up to a murder, and the subsequent investigation to uncover the identity of the killer.

The group of friends, which includes Miranda, Katie, Julien, Mark, Emma, Nick, and Sam, are all privileged and successful, but as the novel progresses, it becomes clear that there are tensions and secrets lurking beneath the surface of their relationships. The characters are complex and well-developed, with each chapter offering insights into their thoughts and motivations.

The setting of the novel is particularly compelling, with Foley painting a vivid picture of the harsh, unforgiving landscape of the Scottish Highlands. The isolation and claustrophobia of the lodge create a sense of unease that permeates the entire novel. As the snow begins to fall and the characters become trapped in the lodge, tensions rise and suspicions mount.

The Hunting Party is a classic murder mystery, and Foley does an excellent job of building suspense and keeping the reader guessing. The narrative is told from multiple perspectives, including those of the characters, as well as the investigators who arrive after the murder has been committed. This allows the reader to piece together clues and form their own theories about what happened.

One of the strengths of the novel is its portrayal of the characters. Foley does an excellent job of capturing the nuances and complexities of human relationships, particularly among a group of friends who have known each other for years. Each character is flawed in their own way, and as their secrets are slowly revealed, the reader is left to question who is capable of murder.

Despite the tension and suspense, the novel is not without its moments of levity. Foley injects humor and wit into the narrative, particularly through the character of Emma, who serves as a kind of comic relief. This serves to break up the tension and make the characters feel more human and relatable.

One of the themes that runs throughout the novel is the idea of privilege and the ways in which it can warp a person’s sense of morality. The characters in the novel are all wealthy and successful, and they have become accustomed to a certain level of comfort and luxury. This privilege has insulated them from the harsh realities of life, and as a result, they are ill-prepared to deal with the challenges they face when they become trapped in the lodge.

The Hunting Party is a well-crafted and engaging murder mystery that will keep readers on the edge of their seats. Foley’s writing is atmospheric and immersive, and she does an excellent job of creating a sense of tension and unease throughout the novel. The characters are complex and well-developed, and the setting is vividly portrayed. Overall, this is a must-read for fans of the genre, and a great introduction for those who are new to it. You can get a copy from Amazon here.