What do you think?
Rate this book
The Engagement Party
An engagement party turns deadly in this debut thriller, in the tradition of Sarah Pinborough and Ruth Ware.
Kass Baptiste is newly engaged to her fiancé Murray Sedgemont after a whirlwind romance. Before they even get to share the news, an invitation arrives via messenger - to an engagement party hosted by Murray’s parents. When Kass and Murray arrive at the Sedgemont Estate, she is astonished to learn that Murray’s family is one of the most powerful families in North Carolina. As Kass’s future mother-in-law, Beatrice, whips herself into a frenzy over the perfect party for the state’s elite, Kass begins to receive anonymous threatening social media messages.
On the night of the event, as champagne is popped and the celebrations begin, a body is found in the lavish home. All eyes are on Kass, the interloper amongst the rich and powerful guests. Over the course of the party , Kass’s dark past unexpectedly becomes intertwined with the murder, and in order to prove her innocence, she must finally come to terms with her secrets.
As Murray’s family secrets are revealed, Kass must prove herself innocent while evading the anonymous threats that haunt her every move.
Kass Baptiste is newly engaged to her fiancé Murray Sedgemont after a whirlwind romance. Before they even get to share the news, an invitation arrives via messenger - to an engagement party hosted by Murray’s parents. When Kass and Murray arrive at the Sedgemont Estate, she is astonished to learn that Murray’s family is one of the most powerful families in North Carolina. As Kass’s future mother-in-law, Beatrice, whips herself into a frenzy over the perfect party for the state’s elite, Kass begins to receive anonymous threatening social media messages.
On the night of the event, as champagne is popped and the celebrations begin, a body is found in the lavish home. All eyes are on Kass, the interloper amongst the rich and powerful guests. Over the course of the party , Kass’s dark past unexpectedly becomes intertwined with the murder, and in order to prove her innocence, she must finally come to terms with her secrets.
As Murray’s family secrets are revealed, Kass must prove herself innocent while evading the anonymous threats that haunt her every move.
320 pages, Hardcover
First published November 7, 2023
448 people are currently reading
8817 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 295 reviews
November 18, 2023
EXCERPT: Lightning illuminated the room again and I noticed a warped baseboard that ran under the window. It was lifted slightly from the wall. Although I was certain it was probably just from humidity, it gave me an idea. Older houses often had small doorways for crawlspace or attic access. Maybe there was one in my room.
I dragged my fingers along the wood paneling, searching for a divot, a crack, anything to indicate there was a hidden doorway. The wood was smooth beneath my fingers, but as I got closer to the dark shadows in the corner, it changed. It was growing cooler now, clammy to the touch. I pulled my hands away and touched my fingertips together. There was definitely moisture.
I returned my hand to the wall and felt again, pushing harder this time. I recoiled as my fingers sank easily into the disintegrating wood, as if I were digging in freshly turned soil.
This house was not as perfect as it seemed. It was rotting from the inside, from secrets and betrayals. Just like this family. Just like me.
ABOUT 'THE ENGAGEMENT PARTY': Kass Baptiste is newly engaged to her fiancé Murray Sedgemont after a whirlwind romance. Before they even get to share the news, an invitation arrives via messenger - to an engagement party hosted by Murray’s parents. When Kass and Murray arrive at the Sedgemont Estate, she is astonished to learn that Murray’s family is one of the most powerful families in North Carolina. As Kass’s future mother-in-law, Beatrice, whips herself into a frenzy over the perfect party for the state’s elite, Kass begins to receive anonymous threatening social media messages.
On the night of the event, as champagne is popped and the celebrations begin, a body is found in the lavish home. All eyes are on Kass, the interloper amongst the rich and powerful guests. Over the course of the party, Kass’s dark past unexpectedly becomes intertwined with the murder, and in order to prove her innocence, she must finally come to terms with her secrets.
As Murray’s family secrets are revealed, Kass must prove herself innocent while evading the anonymous threats that haunt her every move.
MY THOUGHTS: This was a debut novel, and the author definitely shows promise with her writing, but I didn't love this. A lot of the plot centered on things that were absolutely unbelievable and or unpalatable to me.
The story goes like this - whirlwind romance, move in together to save money, quick engagement (with a 3-carat diamond? - refer step 2) - meet the family who are filthy rich - murder.
There's a lot of alcohol involved and some drugs.
Of course, there is a storm that takes out the power, and an ineffectual police presence, hidden passages, and some creepy family members. And then, ta-da (drum roll please!) Charity finds out her fiancé isn't quite who she though he was. Her response? Drink more alcohol. Oh, and interfere with the murder scene. It all gets a bit messy, and less than twenty-four hours after finishing, I can't actually remember how the book ended.
Both plot and characters could have done with a lot more development, a lot less alcohol and a lot more subtlety.
⭐⭐.5
#TheEngagementParty #NetGalley
THE AUTHOR: Finley Turner is a debut thriller writer. Initially convinced she wanted to be a professor, she got her master's in religious studies at Wake Forest University, focusing on new religious movements, cults, and religious violence. During her program, she applied for a student position in the university library and quickly realized she would rather be an academic librarian than be at the front of a classroom teaching. She worked as an archivist at Wake Forest University for six years after getting her masters in library and information science from UNC Greensboro. She now writes and parents full time. Finley lives in North Carolina, with her family.
DISCLOSURE: Thank you to Crooked Lane Books via NetGalley for providing a digital ARC of The Engagement Party by Finley Turner for review. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own personal opinions.
https://sandysbookaday.wordpress.com/...
I dragged my fingers along the wood paneling, searching for a divot, a crack, anything to indicate there was a hidden doorway. The wood was smooth beneath my fingers, but as I got closer to the dark shadows in the corner, it changed. It was growing cooler now, clammy to the touch. I pulled my hands away and touched my fingertips together. There was definitely moisture.
I returned my hand to the wall and felt again, pushing harder this time. I recoiled as my fingers sank easily into the disintegrating wood, as if I were digging in freshly turned soil.
This house was not as perfect as it seemed. It was rotting from the inside, from secrets and betrayals. Just like this family. Just like me.
ABOUT 'THE ENGAGEMENT PARTY': Kass Baptiste is newly engaged to her fiancé Murray Sedgemont after a whirlwind romance. Before they even get to share the news, an invitation arrives via messenger - to an engagement party hosted by Murray’s parents. When Kass and Murray arrive at the Sedgemont Estate, she is astonished to learn that Murray’s family is one of the most powerful families in North Carolina. As Kass’s future mother-in-law, Beatrice, whips herself into a frenzy over the perfect party for the state’s elite, Kass begins to receive anonymous threatening social media messages.
On the night of the event, as champagne is popped and the celebrations begin, a body is found in the lavish home. All eyes are on Kass, the interloper amongst the rich and powerful guests. Over the course of the party, Kass’s dark past unexpectedly becomes intertwined with the murder, and in order to prove her innocence, she must finally come to terms with her secrets.
As Murray’s family secrets are revealed, Kass must prove herself innocent while evading the anonymous threats that haunt her every move.
MY THOUGHTS: This was a debut novel, and the author definitely shows promise with her writing, but I didn't love this. A lot of the plot centered on things that were absolutely unbelievable and or unpalatable to me.
The story goes like this - whirlwind romance, move in together to save money, quick engagement (with a 3-carat diamond? - refer step 2) - meet the family who are filthy rich - murder.
There's a lot of alcohol involved and some drugs.
Of course, there is a storm that takes out the power, and an ineffectual police presence, hidden passages, and some creepy family members. And then, ta-da (drum roll please!) Charity finds out her fiancé isn't quite who she though he was. Her response? Drink more alcohol. Oh, and interfere with the murder scene. It all gets a bit messy, and less than twenty-four hours after finishing, I can't actually remember how the book ended.
Both plot and characters could have done with a lot more development, a lot less alcohol and a lot more subtlety.
⭐⭐.5
#TheEngagementParty #NetGalley
THE AUTHOR: Finley Turner is a debut thriller writer. Initially convinced she wanted to be a professor, she got her master's in religious studies at Wake Forest University, focusing on new religious movements, cults, and religious violence. During her program, she applied for a student position in the university library and quickly realized she would rather be an academic librarian than be at the front of a classroom teaching. She worked as an archivist at Wake Forest University for six years after getting her masters in library and information science from UNC Greensboro. She now writes and parents full time. Finley lives in North Carolina, with her family.
DISCLOSURE: Thank you to Crooked Lane Books via NetGalley for providing a digital ARC of The Engagement Party by Finley Turner for review. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own personal opinions.
https://sandysbookaday.wordpress.com/...
November 7, 2023
3⭐
Genre ~ domestic thriller
Setting ~ North Carolina
Publication date ~ November 7, 2023
Page Count ~ 315 (p+ 40 chapters)
Audio length ~ 9 hours 12 minutes
Narrator ~ Jennifer Jill Araya
POV ~ single 1st
Featuring ~ rich and snobby family, secrets, lies, murder, locked room
Kass & Murray are newly engaged and his parents are throwing them an engagement party. Kass will get to meet her future in-laws, woo hoo...or not.
Quick side bar ~ how do you get engaged to someone and not have ever met their family, or know anything at all about them? Just seems odd to me since my hub introduced me after 12 days of dating, I guess when ya know ya know.
Of course Murray's rich family has secrets to hide, but Kass has one, too...dun dun dun. There's a locked room feel since no one is allowed to leave after the murder AND the electricity is out, which I liked, but all characters are unlikable, so it was a bit crazy at times. Man, Murray's family, and even his parent's friends, were pretty awful. Naive Kass should've hightailed it outta there ASAP. I love what she found behind the dresser, I wish I had one.
Overall, this was fine enough as a debut that I'd read her work again.
PS ~I love the cover!
Narration notes:
Jennifer did a great. Her voice was a little slow though and I had to bump it up to 3x. She gave proper emotion and was very frantic when necessary.
*Thanks to the author, Dreamscape Media and NetGalley for the audio copy. I am voluntarily leaving my honest review*
Connect with me ➡ Blog ~ Facebook ~ Twitter
Genre ~ domestic thriller
Setting ~ North Carolina
Publication date ~ November 7, 2023
Page Count ~ 315 (p+ 40 chapters)
Audio length ~ 9 hours 12 minutes
Narrator ~ Jennifer Jill Araya
POV ~ single 1st
Featuring ~ rich and snobby family, secrets, lies, murder, locked room
Kass & Murray are newly engaged and his parents are throwing them an engagement party. Kass will get to meet her future in-laws, woo hoo...or not.
Quick side bar ~ how do you get engaged to someone and not have ever met their family, or know anything at all about them? Just seems odd to me since my hub introduced me after 12 days of dating, I guess when ya know ya know.
Of course Murray's rich family has secrets to hide, but Kass has one, too...dun dun dun. There's a locked room feel since no one is allowed to leave after the murder AND the electricity is out, which I liked, but all characters are unlikable, so it was a bit crazy at times. Man, Murray's family, and even his parent's friends, were pretty awful. Naive Kass should've hightailed it outta there ASAP. I love what she found behind the dresser, I wish I had one.
Overall, this was fine enough as a debut that I'd read her work again.
PS ~I love the cover!
Narration notes:
Jennifer did a great. Her voice was a little slow though and I had to bump it up to 3x. She gave proper emotion and was very frantic when necessary.
*Thanks to the author, Dreamscape Media and NetGalley for the audio copy. I am voluntarily leaving my honest review*
Connect with me ➡ Blog ~ Facebook ~ Twitter
July 4, 2023
When I went to mark this as “currently reading” on Goodreads, I noticed most of my friends had given it three-star ratings. A three-star book is still decent to me, so I went on, knowing there might be boring bits. I found that there were none! I wouldn’t call this a page-turner, but I was invested in the entire story.
I think the reason for the low-ish ratings may partly have to do with the formula this follows: a whirlwind romance, an insanely wealthy family in the one percent, a party where someone is murdered, which becomes a whodunnit. It’s a formula that is classic but slightly overdone. As long as you don’t mind that, you’ve got a pretty good book on (or in) your hands!
Kassandra and Murray (yes, like the dog on “Mad About You” - there was even a reference to his name sounding like a dog’s) are the couple in the whirlwind relationship, and they’ve just gotten engaged after only a few months. They envision a courthouse wedding with friends, and a chill after-party with some PBR and kush. A few days after their engagement though, they receive a VERY formal invitation to their own engagement party - to be hosted at the estate of Murray’s parents.
Murray has always been quiet about his family and past, and Kass hasn’t questioned it because she has secrets too (classic). He has said he has a brother, and that his family is full of “rich assholes”. Still, they decide to leave Brooklyn for North Carolina and to this dreaded party. They’ve pulled together this party so quickly, and Kass has to meet them eventually…right?
When they arrive at the estate (no this is not your typical house), Kass is almost angry that Murray never told her this his family was THIS rich. She’s anxious to meet the family, but you guessed it, she meets the butler and maid before any of the family. Finally, it’s time for day-drinking cocktails and a very nerve-wracking meeting.
In my mind, I’ve cast Beatrice and Phillip, the parents, as Meryl Streep (as Miranda Priestly) and the late Prince Phillip. They are obviously in a separate class, and Kass feels pretty inferior at this point. Then she’s blindsided again - the brother that Murray talked about are actually two brothers: Emmett and Kennedy, identical twins. Why wouldn’t he have mentioned that?
Then we get to the party - there are a lot of characters because of the magnitude of the event, and when the murder happens, everyone is told to stay there until the police can talk to them. Then this is just a case of who committed the murder, and why.
Formulaic as it may be, I thought this was really well-written, especially for a debut novel. The past stories that Kass and Murray have tie together perfectly with the theme of the party, and the ending was something I definitely didn’t see coming. Sometimes a book is just good because it’s entertaining, and that’s the case with this one. Four stars!
(Thank you to Crooked Lane Books, Finley Turner and NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for my review. This book is slated to be released on November 7, 2023.)
I think the reason for the low-ish ratings may partly have to do with the formula this follows: a whirlwind romance, an insanely wealthy family in the one percent, a party where someone is murdered, which becomes a whodunnit. It’s a formula that is classic but slightly overdone. As long as you don’t mind that, you’ve got a pretty good book on (or in) your hands!
Kassandra and Murray (yes, like the dog on “Mad About You” - there was even a reference to his name sounding like a dog’s) are the couple in the whirlwind relationship, and they’ve just gotten engaged after only a few months. They envision a courthouse wedding with friends, and a chill after-party with some PBR and kush. A few days after their engagement though, they receive a VERY formal invitation to their own engagement party - to be hosted at the estate of Murray’s parents.
Murray has always been quiet about his family and past, and Kass hasn’t questioned it because she has secrets too (classic). He has said he has a brother, and that his family is full of “rich assholes”. Still, they decide to leave Brooklyn for North Carolina and to this dreaded party. They’ve pulled together this party so quickly, and Kass has to meet them eventually…right?
When they arrive at the estate (no this is not your typical house), Kass is almost angry that Murray never told her this his family was THIS rich. She’s anxious to meet the family, but you guessed it, she meets the butler and maid before any of the family. Finally, it’s time for day-drinking cocktails and a very nerve-wracking meeting.
In my mind, I’ve cast Beatrice and Phillip, the parents, as Meryl Streep (as Miranda Priestly) and the late Prince Phillip. They are obviously in a separate class, and Kass feels pretty inferior at this point. Then she’s blindsided again - the brother that Murray talked about are actually two brothers: Emmett and Kennedy, identical twins. Why wouldn’t he have mentioned that?
Then we get to the party - there are a lot of characters because of the magnitude of the event, and when the murder happens, everyone is told to stay there until the police can talk to them. Then this is just a case of who committed the murder, and why.
Formulaic as it may be, I thought this was really well-written, especially for a debut novel. The past stories that Kass and Murray have tie together perfectly with the theme of the party, and the ending was something I definitely didn’t see coming. Sometimes a book is just good because it’s entertaining, and that’s the case with this one. Four stars!
(Thank you to Crooked Lane Books, Finley Turner and NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for my review. This book is slated to be released on November 7, 2023.)
September 14, 2023
This book was just what I needed. A sort of Knives Out meets The Death of Mrs. Westaway vibe. It was a perfect book to snuggle up on the couch and read during a thunderstorm. The characters were extremely dynamic and the dialogue between the characters was phenomenal. I loved how everything tied together at the end and I'm really excited to see what other works Finley comes out with next!
June 18, 2023
This book was just ok for me. It centers on Kass, who is engaged to her fiancé Murray after a whirlwind romance when she finds out that his parents are super rich and are throwing them a party. When tragedy strikes, Kass, who is keeping her own secrets, finds out that Murray has some secrets of his own.
First of all, I found it completely ridiculous that Kass didn’t have any idea about Murray’s family. Don’t you google the person you are dating early in the relationship? Continually, there is mention of a 3 karat ring when she constantly talks about them struggling to keep up with rent- didn’t she wonder how he afforded that? If you can get beyond Kass’s wide-eyed naïveté about Murray’s background, she did show some chutzpah when things got tough, which endeared me to her a bit. Though I didn’t figure out the twist early, I think that is because there were too many coincidences and not enough breadcrumbs laid to get me there.
Overall, it was a decent read but I really had to suspend my disbelief in order to get behind these characters. The mystery was ok but I wasn’t fully invested in it. Thanks to Netgalley for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
First of all, I found it completely ridiculous that Kass didn’t have any idea about Murray’s family. Don’t you google the person you are dating early in the relationship? Continually, there is mention of a 3 karat ring when she constantly talks about them struggling to keep up with rent- didn’t she wonder how he afforded that? If you can get beyond Kass’s wide-eyed naïveté about Murray’s background, she did show some chutzpah when things got tough, which endeared me to her a bit. Though I didn’t figure out the twist early, I think that is because there were too many coincidences and not enough breadcrumbs laid to get me there.
Overall, it was a decent read but I really had to suspend my disbelief in order to get behind these characters. The mystery was ok but I wasn’t fully invested in it. Thanks to Netgalley for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
November 29, 2023
I devoured this juicy romp into the lives of the horribly rich on their worst behavior. While a classic whodunnit, The Engagement Party kept me on my toes with its fresh and modern twists. Readers will race through this debut, which is darkly gripping and just plain fun!
August 2, 2023
In this captivating first-person POV story, we follow the journey of Kassandra and Murray, a hardworking engaged couple striving to achieve the American dream in New York. Their worlds are vastly different, as Murray hails from a wealthy background in North Carolina, a fact he never disclosed to Kassandra until his parents, Beatrice and Phillip, invite them to have their engagement party at their stunning family home. Unprepared for the opulence and the presence of staff, Kassandra is taken aback but agrees to the celebration.
However, things take a dark turn when Kassandra begins receiving mysterious messages about a long-hidden secret. As events unfold, tragedy strikes, and a death occurs, casting suspicion on Kassandra, seen as an outsider in the affluent family setting. Now, burdened with both the secret and the murder accusation, Kassandra must find a way to clear her name while safeguarding her hidden truth. The question looms: could her secret be connected to the murder?
The author, Turner, masterfully weaves a tale of suspense, building tension and intrigue throughout the narrative. The characters are well-developed, making the reader emotionally invested in their journey. The element of unpredictability keeps the reader engaged, as Turner skillfully avoids giving away hints, making the ending a thrilling and satisfying surprise that keeps readers on the edge of their seats.
This psychological thriller is a must-read, and I commend the author for delivering an enthralling and riveting story. The skillful storytelling and well-crafted characters ensure an immersive reading experience that lingers in the mind long after the book is finished.
Mark your calendars for November 07, 2023, and get your hands on this gripping novel. I promise you will not be disappointed. A big thank you to NetGalley, the publisher, and the author for providing me with the opportunity to read this book in exchange for my honest and unbiased review. "The Secret at the Mansion" is a gem you won't want to miss!
#TheEngagementParty #NetGalley
However, things take a dark turn when Kassandra begins receiving mysterious messages about a long-hidden secret. As events unfold, tragedy strikes, and a death occurs, casting suspicion on Kassandra, seen as an outsider in the affluent family setting. Now, burdened with both the secret and the murder accusation, Kassandra must find a way to clear her name while safeguarding her hidden truth. The question looms: could her secret be connected to the murder?
The author, Turner, masterfully weaves a tale of suspense, building tension and intrigue throughout the narrative. The characters are well-developed, making the reader emotionally invested in their journey. The element of unpredictability keeps the reader engaged, as Turner skillfully avoids giving away hints, making the ending a thrilling and satisfying surprise that keeps readers on the edge of their seats.
This psychological thriller is a must-read, and I commend the author for delivering an enthralling and riveting story. The skillful storytelling and well-crafted characters ensure an immersive reading experience that lingers in the mind long after the book is finished.
Mark your calendars for November 07, 2023, and get your hands on this gripping novel. I promise you will not be disappointed. A big thank you to NetGalley, the publisher, and the author for providing me with the opportunity to read this book in exchange for my honest and unbiased review. "The Secret at the Mansion" is a gem you won't want to miss!
#TheEngagementParty #NetGalley
May 20, 2023
Expect the unexpected and get ready to see how the dark past gets intertwined with murder and turns a lavish engagement party into a deadly night.
The book is mysterious, suspenseful and unputdownable. The interwoven mystery and twists and turns will keep you at edge. Many unexpected things happens in the plot and it was intriguing to read how a lavish engagement party turns into a deadly night. The book deals with wealth and power. The author has very well described the wealthy family and their inner issues. The ending shocked me. Something was strange in house and the protagonist became suspicious as soon as she entered in the Sedgemont Estate. There were secrets lying in dark passageway and perhaps there were quarrels and quandaries too but as soon as she figured out the reason behind them, they upended her world . It was too late. She was being watched and the threat messages kept her at edge. But In the tunnel of darkness, secrets, threat messages and murder, the protagonist must find her way out
The book is mysterious, suspenseful and unputdownable. The interwoven mystery and twists and turns will keep you at edge. Many unexpected things happens in the plot and it was intriguing to read how a lavish engagement party turns into a deadly night. The book deals with wealth and power. The author has very well described the wealthy family and their inner issues. The ending shocked me. Something was strange in house and the protagonist became suspicious as soon as she entered in the Sedgemont Estate. There were secrets lying in dark passageway and perhaps there were quarrels and quandaries too but as soon as she figured out the reason behind them, they upended her world . It was too late. She was being watched and the threat messages kept her at edge. But In the tunnel of darkness, secrets, threat messages and murder, the protagonist must find her way out
November 7, 2023
Murray and Kass get engaged after a whirlwind romance. Kass has never been happier. But things change dramatically when they head to Murray’s parents estate for a lavish engagement party. Kass knew that he came from money, but she is about to find out so much more about the man she thought she knew.
This was a fast, page turning read. A great debut but I wanted a bit more from it. The ending was very abrupt and rushed. I didn’t like any of the characters, but there were a few little twists that I didn’t see coming. I will check out what this author has for us next though.
Thanks to Crooked Lane Books and NetGalley for my advanced copy of this book to read. Publishes on November 7th.
This was a fast, page turning read. A great debut but I wanted a bit more from it. The ending was very abrupt and rushed. I didn’t like any of the characters, but there were a few little twists that I didn’t see coming. I will check out what this author has for us next though.
Thanks to Crooked Lane Books and NetGalley for my advanced copy of this book to read. Publishes on November 7th.
June 27, 2023
Kass Baptiste loves her fiance but realizes she knows very little about him when his ultra rich parents throw a surprise engagement party at their estate. Who is Murrays' parents? Why is Kass recieving threatening texts now that she is engaged. Kass has a few secrets of her own that she is dealing with and they are mostly revealed when a murder occurs at the party! Will Kass survive this very lavish and very dangerous weekend?
Fun story line and interesting premise! A great tale for anyone interested in family secrets! #CrookeLanebooks
Fun story line and interesting premise! A great tale for anyone interested in family secrets! #CrookeLanebooks
May 31, 2023
Kass Baptiste says yes to the marriage proposal of Murray Sedgement, whom she believes is the man of her dreams and everything changes the next day. They find out that his family, who unbeknownst to her, is an extremely wealthy and powerful NC family, plans an over the top engagement party for hundreds down at their estate home and Kass and Murray must fly down. Murray had always claimed " non involvement " with his family so this was a surprise.
The Engagement party is the start of unmitigating suspense, mayhem, including murder and one person turning on the next. Kass immediately becomes the main suspect as her relationship with Murray, grows complicated and less than ideal.
The story is rich in mystery and intrigue with very dysfunctional but clearly entertaining, at times, characters both of the family and family friends & associates.
A good study of rich people behaving badly and a well defined lesson in how not to act when your bank account exceeds 7 zeroes.
The Engagement party is the start of unmitigating suspense, mayhem, including murder and one person turning on the next. Kass immediately becomes the main suspect as her relationship with Murray, grows complicated and less than ideal.
The story is rich in mystery and intrigue with very dysfunctional but clearly entertaining, at times, characters both of the family and family friends & associates.
A good study of rich people behaving badly and a well defined lesson in how not to act when your bank account exceeds 7 zeroes.
November 9, 2023
On paper this sounds like everything I would enjoy- murder, messy rich people drama, confined setting, thriller. However, this was a major miss for me. Despite there being literal murders, everything in this book felt extremely low stakes. I was never very concerned for the wellbeing of any of the characters and ultimately found myself wanting to skip through the chapters. Kass acted like she was very in the know after meeting members of the family literally 24 hours prior. I couldn't handle her stupidity and unrealistic reactions.
I was bored, annoyed with our (extremely naive) main character, and overall ready to move on from this ridiculous storyline.
I hate giving a poor review given the generosity of the author and publisher, but honest reviews are what this is all about, right?
Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC.
I was bored, annoyed with our (extremely naive) main character, and overall ready to move on from this ridiculous storyline.
I hate giving a poor review given the generosity of the author and publisher, but honest reviews are what this is all about, right?
Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC.
January 11, 2024
Are you ready to get on a rollercoaster ride? The Engagement Party is an exciting mystery story with characters you don’t know whether to love or hate, an ending which will drive you mad getting to because it was completely unexpected!
When a group of former college friends reluctantly agree to go to “another” engagement party for their commitment phobic friend Will who has once again met the love of his life in a woman named Ruthie whom none of them have met, no one really wants to be there. The tie which seems to bind these friends is a terrible tragedy which happened a few days before their college graduation. One of their group, Emily Hunt was murdered. Hence, they seem to feel the guilt of what happened and bonded them for life. The party is on a secluded island of the coast of Maine. They know it won’t go well, but what they never could imagine is that not all of them would be alive by the end.
The cast of characters include:
Will and Ruthie who met just a few short months ago and have decided to get married. Ruthie has not met Will’s friends and quite frankly doesn’t really care about them. Ruthie has an agenda and she’s sticking to it. Will just thinks he’s in love. Again.
Alex and Cassie who met in college and have a young daughter have amazing careers. A great life. Although they felt obligated to attend, they would rather have stayed home. Too bad they didn’t listen to their instincts.
Mitch and Sienna are friends. Sienna comes as Mitch’s plus one. Mitch is one of the friends from college and because of his past, they treat him with kid gloves. As for Sienna, she has feelings for Mitch, but he seems clueless.
The weekend immediately gets off to a rough start as they are the only ones on the island, there is a storm brewing and oh! they find a dead body in the trunk of a car. And it’s someone they know. Then of course someone goes out of their way to block the Wi-Fi and they are unable to get help. If that doesn’t get your attention, perhaps the severed head found in the shed will.
They realize someone is on the island with them and it looks like they are all in danger of being killed. But here is the question, why? Why them? As they begin to plan how to escape, their uninvited guest makes an appearance and seems to know all their secrets. But who is he? What are their secrets?
As they try to lie their way off the island, violence ensues and it’s everyone for themselves. But what they are hiding will kill someone. And of course, that’s when they begin to turn on each other.
The Engagement Party is an agonizingly exciting story with unbelievable twists and an ending which you will never see coming and never forget! Note to self…engagement parties are way too stressful!
Thank you #NetGalley #WilliamMorrowPaperbacks #TheEngagementParty #DarbyKane for the advanced copy.
When a group of former college friends reluctantly agree to go to “another” engagement party for their commitment phobic friend Will who has once again met the love of his life in a woman named Ruthie whom none of them have met, no one really wants to be there. The tie which seems to bind these friends is a terrible tragedy which happened a few days before their college graduation. One of their group, Emily Hunt was murdered. Hence, they seem to feel the guilt of what happened and bonded them for life. The party is on a secluded island of the coast of Maine. They know it won’t go well, but what they never could imagine is that not all of them would be alive by the end.
The cast of characters include:
Will and Ruthie who met just a few short months ago and have decided to get married. Ruthie has not met Will’s friends and quite frankly doesn’t really care about them. Ruthie has an agenda and she’s sticking to it. Will just thinks he’s in love. Again.
Alex and Cassie who met in college and have a young daughter have amazing careers. A great life. Although they felt obligated to attend, they would rather have stayed home. Too bad they didn’t listen to their instincts.
Mitch and Sienna are friends. Sienna comes as Mitch’s plus one. Mitch is one of the friends from college and because of his past, they treat him with kid gloves. As for Sienna, she has feelings for Mitch, but he seems clueless.
The weekend immediately gets off to a rough start as they are the only ones on the island, there is a storm brewing and oh! they find a dead body in the trunk of a car. And it’s someone they know. Then of course someone goes out of their way to block the Wi-Fi and they are unable to get help. If that doesn’t get your attention, perhaps the severed head found in the shed will.
They realize someone is on the island with them and it looks like they are all in danger of being killed. But here is the question, why? Why them? As they begin to plan how to escape, their uninvited guest makes an appearance and seems to know all their secrets. But who is he? What are their secrets?
As they try to lie their way off the island, violence ensues and it’s everyone for themselves. But what they are hiding will kill someone. And of course, that’s when they begin to turn on each other.
The Engagement Party is an agonizingly exciting story with unbelievable twists and an ending which you will never see coming and never forget! Note to self…engagement parties are way too stressful!
Thank you #NetGalley #WilliamMorrowPaperbacks #TheEngagementParty #DarbyKane for the advanced copy.
May 12, 2023
Synopsis (from Netgalley, the provider of the book for me to review.)
*********************************************************
Kass Baptiste is newly engaged to her fiancé Murray Sedgemont after a whirlwind romance. Before they even get to share the news, an invitation arrives via messenger - to an engagement party hosted by Murray’s parents. When Kass and Murray arrive at the Sedgemont Estate, she is astonished to learn that Murray’s family is one of the most powerful families in North Carolina. As Kass’ future mother-in-law, Beatrice whips herself into a frenzy over the perfect party for the state’s elite, Kass begins to receive anonymous threatening social media messages.
On the night of the event, as champagne is popped and the celebrations begin, a body is found in the lavish home. All eyes are on Kass, the interloper amongst the rich and powerful guests. Over the course of the party, Kass’s dark past unexpectedly becomes intertwined with the murder, and in order to prove her innocence, she must finally come to terms with her secrets.
As Murray’s family secrets are revealed, Kass must prove herself innocent while evading the anonymous threats that haunt her every move.
Oh, the joys of the inlaws who probably don't like you but are putting on a good front as they are eviler than you ever can imagine..and perhaps you are, too! Well written and very current with the social media aspect and how it can utterly ruin your life overnight. (Just ask Bud Light or Nike Sports Bras if they have any media-related regrets of recent....hahaha!) A great book to read or gift for the holiday season as it will entertain readers of all ilks except those literature snobs who are in their ivory towers with Margaret Atwood!)
#shortbutsweetreviews
#shortbutsweetreviews
*********************************************************
Kass Baptiste is newly engaged to her fiancé Murray Sedgemont after a whirlwind romance. Before they even get to share the news, an invitation arrives via messenger - to an engagement party hosted by Murray’s parents. When Kass and Murray arrive at the Sedgemont Estate, she is astonished to learn that Murray’s family is one of the most powerful families in North Carolina. As Kass’ future mother-in-law, Beatrice whips herself into a frenzy over the perfect party for the state’s elite, Kass begins to receive anonymous threatening social media messages.
On the night of the event, as champagne is popped and the celebrations begin, a body is found in the lavish home. All eyes are on Kass, the interloper amongst the rich and powerful guests. Over the course of the party, Kass’s dark past unexpectedly becomes intertwined with the murder, and in order to prove her innocence, she must finally come to terms with her secrets.
As Murray’s family secrets are revealed, Kass must prove herself innocent while evading the anonymous threats that haunt her every move.
Oh, the joys of the inlaws who probably don't like you but are putting on a good front as they are eviler than you ever can imagine..and perhaps you are, too! Well written and very current with the social media aspect and how it can utterly ruin your life overnight. (Just ask Bud Light or Nike Sports Bras if they have any media-related regrets of recent....hahaha!) A great book to read or gift for the holiday season as it will entertain readers of all ilks except those literature snobs who are in their ivory towers with Margaret Atwood!)
#shortbutsweetreviews
#shortbutsweetreviews
June 28, 2023
I enjoyed this thriller as it has a gothic vibe to it and Turner kept the action going throughout! Kass and Murray get engaged and his wealthy parents throw them an engagement party but it's odd that they seemed to have known about it before Murray even asked her. But regardless, they travel to visit the family but Kass is overwhelmed by so many things: mother-in-law's fascination/repugnance, twin brothers who are odd, the ex-girlfriend who is gorgeous, and above all; the creepy, rambling house with its secret corridors and rooms. But Kass has a secret of her own and she harbors guilt over her part in a catastrophe. When all things coalesce (of course during a thunderstorm), all hell breaks loose and everything is exposed! Fast and furious (and fun)!
Thanks to NetGalley for this ARC!
Thanks to NetGalley for this ARC!
November 24, 2023
3.5 Stars
Kass and Murray are happily living together, pinching pennies and he just popped the question with a lavish diamond. Days after the engagement, they receive an invitation to their engagement party given by his parents. From here things go downhill. Drugs, Threats, Murder, and Secrets galore!
Enjoyable enough read, story takes off quickly. No one is what they seem. A little slow moving in the middle, picks up at the end. Ending seems rushed and abrupt. Left me with some questions. Characters definitely come into their own. Some twists I didn’t see coming. Debut novel for this author. I would definitely give this author another try.
Thanks to Crooked Lane Books and NetGalley for this ARC. This is my honest opinion.
Kass and Murray are happily living together, pinching pennies and he just popped the question with a lavish diamond. Days after the engagement, they receive an invitation to their engagement party given by his parents. From here things go downhill. Drugs, Threats, Murder, and Secrets galore!
Enjoyable enough read, story takes off quickly. No one is what they seem. A little slow moving in the middle, picks up at the end. Ending seems rushed and abrupt. Left me with some questions. Characters definitely come into their own. Some twists I didn’t see coming. Debut novel for this author. I would definitely give this author another try.
Thanks to Crooked Lane Books and NetGalley for this ARC. This is my honest opinion.
June 22, 2023
A quick locked door style mystery! Kass has recently gotten engaged to Murray, then his estranged family invites them back home for an elaborate engagement party. Things seem suspicious to Kass from the start, but when someone ends up dead at the party things go to a whole other level.
This wasn’t the most suspenseful read for me, I wasn’t really surprised by anything that happened. It was a decent read, but I wouldn’t shout from the rooftops that you should read it too.
Thank you to the publisher for the gifted ARC.
This wasn’t the most suspenseful read for me, I wasn’t really surprised by anything that happened. It was a decent read, but I wouldn’t shout from the rooftops that you should read it too.
Thank you to the publisher for the gifted ARC.
July 15, 2023
It was good! I enjoyed the mood of the setting, the twists, turns, and nutty characters. The house becomes a weekend “maze of crazy.” A good summer quickie!
February 27, 2024
Loved this!!! She needs to write more books
November 28, 2023
This took me forever to read and it was only 300 pages. A lot of the time the characters weren’t really even doing anything and it made the whole book a slog
July 8, 2023
The Engagement Party is a debut thriller from author Finley Turner. The genre of the book is adult fiction mystery/thriller.
The book is told from a single POV in the first person narrative. Kassandra and Murray are a newly engaged couple living in NYC. They scrape by on their two salaries in NY but Murray comes from an ultra wealthy family in North Carolina.
An invitation comes from Murray’s family, the Sedgemonts. They are throwing a huge engagement party for Kass and Murray. When Kassandra arrives she is overwhelmed at their home and wealthy friends. Kassandra not only doesn’t come from wealth, she is also harboring a deep secret. Someone knows her secret and starts sending threatening messages to her social media.
During the party one of the guests is found dead. The police encourage everyone to stay in the home while they investigate. Kass is accused of the crime since she is an outsider among the rich and powerful.
I really loved the pace of the book and the chapters kept me wanting more. I enjoyed reading this during a thunderstorm when there was a thunderstorm in the book as well. I love a stormy night/locked door mystery.
My only criticism would be that I wanted to know more about what happened to some of the other characters at the end, but I was satisfied with the conclusion regarding Kassandra.
The Engagement Party will be released on November 7, 2023. Thank you to Netgalley, Crooked Lane Books and Finley Turner for this ARC in exchange for review.
The book is told from a single POV in the first person narrative. Kassandra and Murray are a newly engaged couple living in NYC. They scrape by on their two salaries in NY but Murray comes from an ultra wealthy family in North Carolina.
An invitation comes from Murray’s family, the Sedgemonts. They are throwing a huge engagement party for Kass and Murray. When Kassandra arrives she is overwhelmed at their home and wealthy friends. Kassandra not only doesn’t come from wealth, she is also harboring a deep secret. Someone knows her secret and starts sending threatening messages to her social media.
During the party one of the guests is found dead. The police encourage everyone to stay in the home while they investigate. Kass is accused of the crime since she is an outsider among the rich and powerful.
I really loved the pace of the book and the chapters kept me wanting more. I enjoyed reading this during a thunderstorm when there was a thunderstorm in the book as well. I love a stormy night/locked door mystery.
My only criticism would be that I wanted to know more about what happened to some of the other characters at the end, but I was satisfied with the conclusion regarding Kassandra.
The Engagement Party will be released on November 7, 2023. Thank you to Netgalley, Crooked Lane Books and Finley Turner for this ARC in exchange for review.
November 3, 2023
In my experience with the audiobook, I encountered a mix of elements that left me with conflicting impressions. On one hand, the narration's brisk pace provided an energetic momentum to the story, a factor I found appreciable. On the other hand, the characters' portrayal was a significant drawback. They seemed either overly naive or poorly developed, lacking the depth needed to establish a connection with the listener.
Amidst these challenges, the audiobook did manage to surprise me with unexpected plot twists. While these twists injected moments of intrigue, they were overshadowed by the overall character portrayal. The characters' lack of authenticity made it hard for me to fully immerse myself in the narrative, diminishing my overall enjoyment of the audiobook.
It's worth noting that individual preferences vary, and what didn't resonate with me might work for others. However, I personally found it difficult to engage with the story due to the underdeveloped characters, despite the promising plot twists.
Amidst these challenges, the audiobook did manage to surprise me with unexpected plot twists. While these twists injected moments of intrigue, they were overshadowed by the overall character portrayal. The characters' lack of authenticity made it hard for me to fully immerse myself in the narrative, diminishing my overall enjoyment of the audiobook.
It's worth noting that individual preferences vary, and what didn't resonate with me might work for others. However, I personally found it difficult to engage with the story due to the underdeveloped characters, despite the promising plot twists.
November 15, 2023
This felt like a discount version of The Family Game. It never quite hit its stride, the plot was way too familiar and not well executed and the characters were poorly developed. The Family Game was just SO much better and you can’t help but compare this negatively.
Kass is engaged to Murray whose parents have decided to throw them an engagement party. However when she gets there she realizes they are way wealthier than she had suspected and she feels like a fish out of water. When someone ends up murdered she realizes that there are darker forces at play and her own past might be catching up to her as well.
This hinges on way too many coincidences and I don’t like it when character personalities do a 180 with no real rhyme or reason. There’s also no slow reveal of the secrets you go from not knowing anything to knowing everything in a giant information dump and it feels amateur. This is a debut so I give some leniency there but it’s not original enough to deserve a higher rating.
Kass is engaged to Murray whose parents have decided to throw them an engagement party. However when she gets there she realizes they are way wealthier than she had suspected and she feels like a fish out of water. When someone ends up murdered she realizes that there are darker forces at play and her own past might be catching up to her as well.
This hinges on way too many coincidences and I don’t like it when character personalities do a 180 with no real rhyme or reason. There’s also no slow reveal of the secrets you go from not knowing anything to knowing everything in a giant information dump and it feels amateur. This is a debut so I give some leniency there but it’s not original enough to deserve a higher rating.
August 21, 2023
THE ENGAGEMENT PARTY piqued my interest from the beginning. I found Kass' character to be very naive. I couldn't believe that she never met Murray's family and didn't really know how wealthy they were. The party was a complete nightmare. So many things were going on, but Kass was strong willed and pulled through it all. I really didn't care for Murray or his family but in the end I felt the story was good. I would definitely read more books by Finley Turner in the future.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Crooked Lane Books for my gifted ARC.
This review will be shared to (@coffee.break.book.reviews) closer to pub date.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Crooked Lane Books for my gifted ARC.
This review will be shared to (@coffee.break.book.reviews) closer to pub date.
May 19, 2023
I was hoping that this novel would go in the direction of You're Next or Ready or Not meets Agatha Christie, but instead the locked room element (and indeed the murder) took too long to kick in. We get flashes back to something horrible in Kass's past, but it takes too long for that to come to light as well. Throw in an absurd coincidence, and it didn't 'fully mesh for me. The writing itself was entertaining though, and I'd definitely give another Turner novel a go.
I received an ARC from Netgalley.
I received an ARC from Netgalley.
February 20, 2024
Pretty mid not gonna lie. Very similar to every single other thriller/Mystery where a rich family is involved in some shady affairs.
January 27, 2024
2⭐️ meᵉeeᵉeᵉhhhʰʰʰ. it was……. okay? it was kinda just like….. yeah.
November 17, 2023
I picked up the audiobook of Finley Turner's The Engagement Party on a whim. I really enjoyed the narrator. The story itself was a little bit repetitive for 75% of the book, followed by a tumultuous final 25% that left me feeling dazed.
Kass and Murray have the perfect relationship until Murray's wealthy parents throw an engagement party for the couple, and ugly secrets are revealed. It seems that both Kass and Murray have a past that will come back to haunt them. Their entire relationship unravels in the span of 48 hours, all while navigating family drama, the huge engagement party, threatening social media posts, and a catty ex. When you throw in a completely unrelated murder and protesting townspeople, there is an awful lot happening in the latter part of this book. It was good, but not outstanding in my opinion.
Thank you to NetGalley and Dreamscape Media for the opportunity to listen to and review this audiobook.
Kass and Murray have the perfect relationship until Murray's wealthy parents throw an engagement party for the couple, and ugly secrets are revealed. It seems that both Kass and Murray have a past that will come back to haunt them. Their entire relationship unravels in the span of 48 hours, all while navigating family drama, the huge engagement party, threatening social media posts, and a catty ex. When you throw in a completely unrelated murder and protesting townspeople, there is an awful lot happening in the latter part of this book. It was good, but not outstanding in my opinion.
Thank you to NetGalley and Dreamscape Media for the opportunity to listen to and review this audiobook.
April 17, 2024
Holy crap. Just wow.
If you like a who done it, mixed with murder, mixed with family drama, then grab this book.
If you like a who done it, mixed with murder, mixed with family drama, then grab this book.
September 27, 2023
Kass Baptiste has just become engaged to Murray Sedgemont after a whirlwind courtship and will now learn some of the secrets he has been hiding at an engagement party thrown by his parents at their magnificent estate.
After graduating from NYU, Kass is working in her dream job as a set designer for plays. Murray runs an art gallery. But both of them are hiding secrets from their past that are exposed at the lavish party which also includes a murder.
The story is told from Kass's point of view and depicts a woman who is a fish out of water in the world of the uber rich. Her trip to Murray's family home in North Carolina exposes her to a side of her fiancé that had never seen before and wasn't at all sure that she liked. She also dislikes his parents. His ineffectual father and barracuda mother make no effort to welcome her, and his twin brothers are really, really creepy.
When the man who was in line to take over the family business is murdered at the party, it seems someone is trying to frame Kass for the crime. An old enemy from her troubled past has finally seen an opportunity to get the revenge he has wanted for years.
The story was almost claustrophobic centered as it was on what Kass saw and knew. I liked Kass who finally managed to come to terms with her past and plan for her future.
The descriptions of the characters and the home which included secret passages were vivid and eerie. Fans of domestic thrillers will enjoy this one.
After graduating from NYU, Kass is working in her dream job as a set designer for plays. Murray runs an art gallery. But both of them are hiding secrets from their past that are exposed at the lavish party which also includes a murder.
The story is told from Kass's point of view and depicts a woman who is a fish out of water in the world of the uber rich. Her trip to Murray's family home in North Carolina exposes her to a side of her fiancé that had never seen before and wasn't at all sure that she liked. She also dislikes his parents. His ineffectual father and barracuda mother make no effort to welcome her, and his twin brothers are really, really creepy.
When the man who was in line to take over the family business is murdered at the party, it seems someone is trying to frame Kass for the crime. An old enemy from her troubled past has finally seen an opportunity to get the revenge he has wanted for years.
The story was almost claustrophobic centered as it was on what Kass saw and knew. I liked Kass who finally managed to come to terms with her past and plan for her future.
The descriptions of the characters and the home which included secret passages were vivid and eerie. Fans of domestic thrillers will enjoy this one.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 295 reviews