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Five Found Dead
"It's a daring writer who wants to add their own spin to one of the most recognized mysteries of all time. Sulari Gentill succeeds brilliantly." Joshua Moehling, USA Today bestselling author of A Long Times Gone
"Rich with quirky characters and clever misdirection." Booklist
On a train, there are only so many places to hide…
Crime fiction author Joe Penvale has won the most brutal battle of his life. Now that he has finished his intense medical treatment, he and his twin sister, Meredith, are boarding the glorious Orient Express in Paris, hoping for some much-needed rest and rejuvenation. Meredith also hopes that the literary ghosts on the train will nudge Joe's muse awake, and he'll be inspired to write again. And he is; after their first evening spent getting to know some of their fellow travelers, Joe pulls out his laptop and opens a new document. Seems like this trip is just what the doctor ordered…
And then some. The next morning, Joe and Meredith are shocked to witness that the cabin next door has become a crime scene, bathed in blood but with no body in sight. The pair soon find themselves caught up in an Agatha Christie-esque murder investigation. Without any help from the authorities, and with the victim still not found, Joe and Meredith are asked to join a group of fellow passengers with law enforcement backgrounds to look into the mysterious disappearance of the man in Cabin16G. But when the steward guarding the crime scene is murdered, it marks the beginning of a killing spree which leaves five found dead—and one still missing. Now Joe and Meredith must fight once again to preserve their newfound future and to catch a cunning killer before they reach the end of the line.
USA Today bestselling author Sulari Gentill brings readers on a heart-pounding ride filled with intrigue, suspense, and literary charm in Five Found Dead, perfect for fans of twisty mysteries and books about books.
"Rich with quirky characters and clever misdirection." Booklist
On a train, there are only so many places to hide…
Crime fiction author Joe Penvale has won the most brutal battle of his life. Now that he has finished his intense medical treatment, he and his twin sister, Meredith, are boarding the glorious Orient Express in Paris, hoping for some much-needed rest and rejuvenation. Meredith also hopes that the literary ghosts on the train will nudge Joe's muse awake, and he'll be inspired to write again. And he is; after their first evening spent getting to know some of their fellow travelers, Joe pulls out his laptop and opens a new document. Seems like this trip is just what the doctor ordered…
And then some. The next morning, Joe and Meredith are shocked to witness that the cabin next door has become a crime scene, bathed in blood but with no body in sight. The pair soon find themselves caught up in an Agatha Christie-esque murder investigation. Without any help from the authorities, and with the victim still not found, Joe and Meredith are asked to join a group of fellow passengers with law enforcement backgrounds to look into the mysterious disappearance of the man in Cabin16G. But when the steward guarding the crime scene is murdered, it marks the beginning of a killing spree which leaves five found dead—and one still missing. Now Joe and Meredith must fight once again to preserve their newfound future and to catch a cunning killer before they reach the end of the line.
USA Today bestselling author Sulari Gentill brings readers on a heart-pounding ride filled with intrigue, suspense, and literary charm in Five Found Dead, perfect for fans of twisty mysteries and books about books.
310 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 19, 2025
290 people are currently reading
19821 people want to read
About the author
Sulari Gentill
28 books1,726 followersOnce upon a time, Sulari Gentill was a corporate lawyer serving as a director on public boards, with only a vague disquiet that there was something else she was meant to do. That feeling did not go away until she began to write. And so Sulari became the author of the Rowland Sinclair Mysteries: thus far, ten historical crime novels chronicling the life and adventures of her 1930s Australian gentleman artist, the Hero Trilogy, based on the myths and epics of the ancient world, and the Ned Kelly Award winning Crossing the Lines (published in the US as After She Wrote Hime). In 2014 she collaborated with National Gallery of Victoria to write a short story which was produced in audio to feature in the Fashion Detective Exhibition, and thereafter published by the NGV. IN 2019 Sulari was part of a 4-member delegation of Australian crime writers sponsored by the Australia Council to tour the US as ambassadors of Australian Crime Writing.
Sulari lives with her husband, Michael, and their boys, Edmund and Atticus, on a small farm in Batlow where she grows French Black Truffles and refers to her writing as “work” so that no one will suggest she get a real job.
THE WOMAN IN THE LIBRARY, Sulari’s latest novel will be released on 7 June 2022.
Sulari lives with her husband, Michael, and their boys, Edmund and Atticus, on a small farm in Batlow where she grows French Black Truffles and refers to her writing as “work” so that no one will suggest she get a real job.
THE WOMAN IN THE LIBRARY, Sulari’s latest novel will be released on 7 June 2022.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 645 reviews
September 23, 2025
This book was utterly ridiculous but I actually rather enjoyed it. I mean, just about every single thing that happened in it was completely implausible, but it was also riveting because I couldn't wait to see what new absurdness was around the corner. Honestly, I'm not sure if it was supposed to be a serious read or satire, but oh my gosh it was fantastic … ish.
It's so hard to talk about all the weird stuff that happened in this book without spoilers, but I will say that the real pièce de résistance was when Joe and Meri had the (possibly) bad guy trapped in a room and made him turn away and cover his ears with his hands so that they could talk about him without him hearing. Fantastic work, guys. Nothing says “soundproof” like the ol' hands over the ears trick. And sweet baby kittens on a cracker, I almost lost it when the above-mentioned (maybe) bad guy mentioned his given name.*
But, anyway, it's definitely not a spoiler for me to say that this book is based on Agatha Christie's Murder on the Orient Express (at least not if you've already read the publisher's blurb, anyway). There's even a French former police detective who has an accent suspiciously similar to Hercule Poirot's. And, of course, it's set on the Orient Express and involves a murder … or five. Poirot, however, would have been absolutely horrified at the shenanigans that occurred in the name of “detective work” in this novel. It was all so very, very silly (but also kind of delightful).
The way Meri and Joe figured out what had become of the missing passenger was just … wow. Like, I can't even begin to describe it because, again … spoilers, but it was the most specifically specific “ah ha!” moment in all of murder mystery history (hey, that rhymed!). Like, Hercule Poirot himself could not have come up with such a convoluted and unlikely scenario. I mean, that's the most logical explanation for the lack of fingerprints in the cabin … really?? Brilliant.
And that one, um, person on the train? Ha ha ha ha. Who would actually fly halfway across the world to ride on a super expensive train based on a token invitation that some weirdo made to about twelve other people at the same time? And even if someone would do such a thing, who would do it without actually telling the person that invited them that they were coming?? No one, that's f-ing who! And why in the heck would Joe think that (s)he was there to … Oh, never mind. You're just going to have to read this one, you guys.
I won't even get into how unrealistic it was for the train … boss (I forget his title, but I know I'm not supposed to call him “conductor”) to ask random passengers to solve a murder that had occurred on the train to begin with. And the whole COVID subplot with the rampaging infected passengers? And the twist that neatly wrapped up said subplot? All of it was so horribly implausible and yet tremendously entertaining.
The last chapter, by the way, is basically just a recap of everything that happened in the book. If you start reading it and think “this is boring and repetitive,” just skip it. You're not missing anything.
But, yeah, seriously … read this one. I'm not sure that I necessarily enjoyed this one in the way that it was meant to be enjoyed, but it amused me nevertheless. 3.65 stars, rounded up.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Poisoned Pen Press for providing me with an advance copy of this book to review. Its expected publication date is August 19, 2025.
*Okay, fine, you forced it out of me: his name was . Yes, really.
It's so hard to talk about all the weird stuff that happened in this book without spoilers, but I will say that the real pièce de résistance was when Joe and Meri had the (possibly) bad guy trapped in a room and made him turn away and cover his ears with his hands so that they could talk about him without him hearing. Fantastic work, guys. Nothing says “soundproof” like the ol' hands over the ears trick. And sweet baby kittens on a cracker, I almost lost it when the above-mentioned (maybe) bad guy mentioned his given name.*
But, anyway, it's definitely not a spoiler for me to say that this book is based on Agatha Christie's Murder on the Orient Express (at least not if you've already read the publisher's blurb, anyway). There's even a French former police detective who has an accent suspiciously similar to Hercule Poirot's. And, of course, it's set on the Orient Express and involves a murder … or five. Poirot, however, would have been absolutely horrified at the shenanigans that occurred in the name of “detective work” in this novel. It was all so very, very silly (but also kind of delightful).
The way Meri and Joe figured out what had become of the missing passenger was just … wow. Like, I can't even begin to describe it because, again … spoilers, but it was the most specifically specific “ah ha!” moment in all of murder mystery history (hey, that rhymed!). Like, Hercule Poirot himself could not have come up with such a convoluted and unlikely scenario. I mean, that's the most logical explanation for the lack of fingerprints in the cabin … really?? Brilliant.
And that one, um, person on the train? Ha ha ha ha. Who would actually fly halfway across the world to ride on a super expensive train based on a token invitation that some weirdo made to about twelve other people at the same time? And even if someone would do such a thing, who would do it without actually telling the person that invited them that they were coming?? No one, that's f-ing who! And why in the heck would Joe think that (s)he was there to … Oh, never mind. You're just going to have to read this one, you guys.
I won't even get into how unrealistic it was for the train … boss (I forget his title, but I know I'm not supposed to call him “conductor”) to ask random passengers to solve a murder that had occurred on the train to begin with. And the whole COVID subplot with the rampaging infected passengers? And the twist that neatly wrapped up said subplot? All of it was so horribly implausible and yet tremendously entertaining.
The last chapter, by the way, is basically just a recap of everything that happened in the book. If you start reading it and think “this is boring and repetitive,” just skip it. You're not missing anything.
But, yeah, seriously … read this one. I'm not sure that I necessarily enjoyed this one in the way that it was meant to be enjoyed, but it amused me nevertheless. 3.65 stars, rounded up.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Poisoned Pen Press for providing me with an advance copy of this book to review. Its expected publication date is August 19, 2025.
*Okay, fine, you forced it out of me: his name was . Yes, really.
August 17, 2025
Chaotic pacing, a dizzying cast, & mystery on the move!
FIVE FOUND DEAD by SULARI GENTILL has an irresistible premise and setting with the famed Orient Express, a cabin bathed in blood with no body in sight, and a string of murders that snowball into five confirmed deaths before the journey ends. I mean, that is the kind of hook that makes me lean in close and rub my hands together, ready for a twisty, high speed ride.
Confession time: I have never read an Agatha Christie. 😱 I know, I know! So this was my chance to get a taste of those “locked train” vibes everyone talks about. The story opens strong, with that crime scene next door shock that instantly had my curiosity fired up. I wanted to settle in for some classic style sleuthing fun.
Once the investigation got going though, the large cast and many moving parts made it hard for me to feel fully settled in. I like to connect quickly with a few core characters, and here I often found myself flipping back to remember who was who. The pacing and flow felt uneven at times, and while the idea itself is clever, it did not come together in a way that fully pulled me in.
I also did not click with the writing style this time. It felt a little choppy for my taste, making it harder to sink into the mood. I am very much a simple, easy reader who loves straightforward storytelling where I can feel the emotions right there on the page. This might have been one of those moments where my reading style and the author’s approach just did not match up.
💭 Mood reader moment: I was not mood motivated on this one as it was an ARC I wanted to read before publication, but I quickly realised this story’s high energy chaos was not quite my match this time.
Key Impressions
🚂 The locked train setting immediately drew me in.
🩸 The dramatic opening scene had me hooked.
🌀 There were a few too many characters for me to keep track of comfortably.
📖 The choppy pacing made it harder to settle into the story.
🤷🏻♀️ Ultimately, my reading style and the author’s approach did not fully click this time.
That said, the setting and concept still really worked for me. Being trapped on a moving train with a killer, no escape in sight, and a ticking clock until the final stop will always be a fun draw. I think readers who enjoy eccentric characters and twisty, unpredictable plotting will have a good time with this one.
Expected Publication Date: August 19, 2025
Thank you so much to the publisher and NetGalley for my digital review copy. While this was not quite my reading match, I think many mystery lovers will enjoy the ride.
FIVE FOUND DEAD by SULARI GENTILL has an irresistible premise and setting with the famed Orient Express, a cabin bathed in blood with no body in sight, and a string of murders that snowball into five confirmed deaths before the journey ends. I mean, that is the kind of hook that makes me lean in close and rub my hands together, ready for a twisty, high speed ride.
Confession time: I have never read an Agatha Christie. 😱 I know, I know! So this was my chance to get a taste of those “locked train” vibes everyone talks about. The story opens strong, with that crime scene next door shock that instantly had my curiosity fired up. I wanted to settle in for some classic style sleuthing fun.
Once the investigation got going though, the large cast and many moving parts made it hard for me to feel fully settled in. I like to connect quickly with a few core characters, and here I often found myself flipping back to remember who was who. The pacing and flow felt uneven at times, and while the idea itself is clever, it did not come together in a way that fully pulled me in.
I also did not click with the writing style this time. It felt a little choppy for my taste, making it harder to sink into the mood. I am very much a simple, easy reader who loves straightforward storytelling where I can feel the emotions right there on the page. This might have been one of those moments where my reading style and the author’s approach just did not match up.
💭 Mood reader moment: I was not mood motivated on this one as it was an ARC I wanted to read before publication, but I quickly realised this story’s high energy chaos was not quite my match this time.
Key Impressions
🚂 The locked train setting immediately drew me in.
🩸 The dramatic opening scene had me hooked.
🌀 There were a few too many characters for me to keep track of comfortably.
📖 The choppy pacing made it harder to settle into the story.
🤷🏻♀️ Ultimately, my reading style and the author’s approach did not fully click this time.
That said, the setting and concept still really worked for me. Being trapped on a moving train with a killer, no escape in sight, and a ticking clock until the final stop will always be a fun draw. I think readers who enjoy eccentric characters and twisty, unpredictable plotting will have a good time with this one.
Expected Publication Date: August 19, 2025
Thank you so much to the publisher and NetGalley for my digital review copy. While this was not quite my reading match, I think many mystery lovers will enjoy the ride.
September 9, 2025
This is certainly a mystery thriller. A murder takes place on the Oriental Express with a twist of a suspected COVID outbreak. I’m a firm believer that fiction is fiction, and you can play any ridiculous plot, scene, etc. and get away with it, because that’s fiction.
But for some stupid reason, I was stuck on the notion that Joe had recently survived cancer and yet he was tramping up and down the train cars looking for clues, when he should actually be quarantined. Stupid right!
But all that aside, it was fast paced, very entertaining, and the whole whodunit plot worked.
But for some stupid reason, I was stuck on the notion that Joe had recently survived cancer and yet he was tramping up and down the train cars looking for clues, when he should actually be quarantined. Stupid right!
But all that aside, it was fast paced, very entertaining, and the whole whodunit plot worked.
September 4, 2025
Just as expected, Five Found Dead played up the Agatha Christie-esque feel to brilliant applause. From the locked room mystery premise to the multitude of personas who felt almost characterized, the Golden Age vibe was most definitely there in spades. For the most part, that is. You see, this book took the notion of suspending all disbelief to a whole other level—even more so than Christie. That being said, I loved every silly moment that had me exercising my grey little cells. The train setting was brilliant, the dénouement was just as Agatha would‘ve wanted, and, most importantly, bodies kept dropping like flies. As long as you’re prepared to need to ignore some of the more unrealistic moments, you’ll love trying to put the clues together in time.
All said and done, thanks to the eccentric characters, clever red herrings, and the thoroughly twisty plotting, I was over the moon as I flew through this modern-day murder mystery storyline. Was it a bit ridiculous at times? Well…yes. But once I threw my disbelief out the window, I had a blast riding shotgun with the pack of cops, lawyers, podcasters, and a whole host of amateur sleuths, including a Miss Marple-type little old lady. Quite possibly meant to be satirical in nature, it was nevertheless my favorite by Gentill so far. So if you love a classic mystery that’s got plenty of tongue-in-cheek hilarity, be sure to get your hands on this brand-new novel. After all, I had a blast riding the Orient Express yet again and I think you’ll enjoy it as well. Rating of 4 stars.
SYNOPSIS:
Crime fiction author Joe Penvale has won the most brutal battle of his life. Now that he has finished his intense medical treatment, he and his twin sister, Meredith, are boarding the glorious Orient Express in Paris, hoping for some much-needed rest and rejuvenation. Meredith also hopes that the literary ghosts on the train will nudge Joe's muse awake, and he'll be inspired to write again. And he is; after their first evening spent getting to know some of their fellow travelers, Joe pulls out his laptop and opens a new document. Seems like this trip is just what the doctor ordered…
And then some. The next morning, Joe and Meredith are shocked to witness that the cabin next door has become a crime scene, bathed in blood but with no body in sight. The pair soon find themselves caught up in an Agatha Christie-esque murder investigation. Without any help from the authorities, and with the victim still not found, Joe and Meredith are asked to join a group of fellow passengers with law enforcement backgrounds to look into the mysterious disappearance of the man in Cabin16G. But when the steward guarding the crime scene is murdered, it marks the beginning of a killing spree which leaves five found dead—and one still missing. Now Joe and Meredith must fight once again to preserve their newfound future and to catch a cunning killer before they reach the end of the line.
Thank you to Sulari Gentill, Poisoned Pen Press, and NetGalley for my complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.
PUB DATE: August 19, 2025
Content warning: cancer, violence, murder, gun violence, gaslighting, COVID, confinement, stalking
All said and done, thanks to the eccentric characters, clever red herrings, and the thoroughly twisty plotting, I was over the moon as I flew through this modern-day murder mystery storyline. Was it a bit ridiculous at times? Well…yes. But once I threw my disbelief out the window, I had a blast riding shotgun with the pack of cops, lawyers, podcasters, and a whole host of amateur sleuths, including a Miss Marple-type little old lady. Quite possibly meant to be satirical in nature, it was nevertheless my favorite by Gentill so far. So if you love a classic mystery that’s got plenty of tongue-in-cheek hilarity, be sure to get your hands on this brand-new novel. After all, I had a blast riding the Orient Express yet again and I think you’ll enjoy it as well. Rating of 4 stars.
SYNOPSIS:
Crime fiction author Joe Penvale has won the most brutal battle of his life. Now that he has finished his intense medical treatment, he and his twin sister, Meredith, are boarding the glorious Orient Express in Paris, hoping for some much-needed rest and rejuvenation. Meredith also hopes that the literary ghosts on the train will nudge Joe's muse awake, and he'll be inspired to write again. And he is; after their first evening spent getting to know some of their fellow travelers, Joe pulls out his laptop and opens a new document. Seems like this trip is just what the doctor ordered…
And then some. The next morning, Joe and Meredith are shocked to witness that the cabin next door has become a crime scene, bathed in blood but with no body in sight. The pair soon find themselves caught up in an Agatha Christie-esque murder investigation. Without any help from the authorities, and with the victim still not found, Joe and Meredith are asked to join a group of fellow passengers with law enforcement backgrounds to look into the mysterious disappearance of the man in Cabin16G. But when the steward guarding the crime scene is murdered, it marks the beginning of a killing spree which leaves five found dead—and one still missing. Now Joe and Meredith must fight once again to preserve their newfound future and to catch a cunning killer before they reach the end of the line.
Thank you to Sulari Gentill, Poisoned Pen Press, and NetGalley for my complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.
PUB DATE: August 19, 2025
Content warning: cancer, violence, murder, gun violence, gaslighting, COVID, confinement, stalking
August 21, 2025
3.5 stars, interesting riff on Murder on the Orient Express
While overall this is a really good mystery, it would have been a solid 4-stars without the introduction of a "new deadly Covid variant" storyline. I see its purpose once I finished the book, but I wonder if there could have been another way to go about the same thing without that element. It is just too soon for most people and I'm afraid it will turn people away from what is a fun locked room mystery.
Mystery writer Joe and his twin sister Meredith board the Orient Express for a much needed vacation after Joe has successfully battled cancer. After a first dinner and then night aboard, the two are shocked to witness the state of the cabin next door. After getting through the door that is bolted from the inside, they see the cabin covered with blood. But there's no one present and no way for the occupant to get out. Soon they are called to join a group of their fellow passengers, all who have some ties to law enforcement, in order to solve the mystery before something else happens.
I enjoyed this book. There was a lot of humor intermingled with a really fun mystery. Since the title is "Five Found Dead," as things were progressing I knew that I was expecting more than just the first death, so was intrigued as to who was going to be next. I loved the various characters and their homage to various characters from Agatha Christie books.
Like I said, there are a large number of characters but I didn't have much difficulty keeping them straight. I figured out a decent amount of what was going on before it was revealed, but that didn't keep me from being entertained. The plot moves quickly and really embraces the locked room concept with both a locked room and a contained train far from civilization.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
While overall this is a really good mystery, it would have been a solid 4-stars without the introduction of a "new deadly Covid variant" storyline. I see its purpose once I finished the book, but I wonder if there could have been another way to go about the same thing without that element. It is just too soon for most people and I'm afraid it will turn people away from what is a fun locked room mystery.
Mystery writer Joe and his twin sister Meredith board the Orient Express for a much needed vacation after Joe has successfully battled cancer. After a first dinner and then night aboard, the two are shocked to witness the state of the cabin next door. After getting through the door that is bolted from the inside, they see the cabin covered with blood. But there's no one present and no way for the occupant to get out. Soon they are called to join a group of their fellow passengers, all who have some ties to law enforcement, in order to solve the mystery before something else happens.
I enjoyed this book. There was a lot of humor intermingled with a really fun mystery. Since the title is "Five Found Dead," as things were progressing I knew that I was expecting more than just the first death, so was intrigued as to who was going to be next. I loved the various characters and their homage to various characters from Agatha Christie books.
Like I said, there are a large number of characters but I didn't have much difficulty keeping them straight. I figured out a decent amount of what was going on before it was revealed, but that didn't keep me from being entertained. The plot moves quickly and really embraces the locked room concept with both a locked room and a contained train far from civilization.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
August 21, 2025
4.5 stars - I really, really enjoyed this revamped “Orient Express” meta-mystery quite a bit - very fun and also very silly at times - almost a pastiche - IYKYK😜 Super entertaining, most of it was quite intentionally OTT and I snort-laughed more than once. Recommend to all mystery lovers, especially those who revere Dame Aggie, of course!
October 25, 2025
4★
" 'He lodged with us—in the spare room—you see' Penelope pours coffee.'"So, we feel…well… not exactly responsible but obliged.'
'Could you not have called the police?' Joe appears preoccupied with a bagel, but I know the ladies have his complete attention.
'Oh, yes, well the police.' Clarice rolls her eyes. 'I'm afraid the constabulary is not what it once was… The boy in charge…' She shakes her head. 'Penny and I were compelled to take things in hand.' "
Gentill has put a pair of Aussie twins, Joe and Meredith (Meri) Penvale on board the famed Orient Express to celebrate author Joe's successful cancer treatment. To accompany them, she has added some classic character types who are perfect for this locked-room mystery.
" 'Is this your first time on the Orient Express?' I ask, as coffee and pastries are placed before us. The question, it seems, is the traditional opening between fellow travelers on the midnight-blue train.
'Why, yes dear.' Penelope takes a chocolate croissant from the basket of pastries. 'I suppose some people do this sort of thing all the time, but it's a rare treat for Clarice and me. Impossible but for the generosity of the Lower Slaughter Civic Society.'
Joe's eyes meet mine. Octogenarian bounty hunters. Odd but intriguing.
'Why does the Lower Slaughter Civic Society want you to find him?' Joe asks carefully.
'He has rather a lot of money that belongs to the society. They would like it back.'
'And they sent you to…?'
'Demand the return of their funds,' Clarice says.
'With whatever menaces necessary,' Penelope adds."
As well as these quirky old ladies, there's a retired French policeman with the delicious name of Napoleon Duplantier and the accent and charming manner to go with it. He is seated with them at dinner.
"'I am told you wish to dine with a Belgian detective,' he says handing his walking stick to the steward as he sits down beside me. 'I hope that a retired French policeman will suffice. We are not as famous, but much more handsome.'"
He fills the Poirot role nicely, and the assortment of other characters are as different from each other as possible.
"The train lurches slightly, and a passing redhead spills her drink on Joe. 'Oh, hello!' She speaks with a distinct, if slightly slurred, Scottish enunciation. It is the only thing that doesn't fit entirely with the impression that she might have stumbled out of a glamourous Hollywood film set from the forties. 'Elle Baird, Duchess of Kinross. I'm afraid your shirt has soaked up my wee martini.' She looks sadly at her now-empty glass."
She isn't in one of the tiny cabins, as Joe and Meri are – she's in a lavish stateroom, which we visit, of course. Joe and Meri have to take turns getting dressed, there is so little room to move in their tiny cabin. They have a little wash basin, but the rest rooms are at the ends of the carriages.
It isn't long before 16G, the cabin next to Joe and Meri, is found to be covered with blood – all over the walls and windows – but there's no body… and later they find no fingerprints. No body? And right next door. They can't even lock themselves in - the restrooms are elsewhere.
Next, the body of a murdered steward is found in the restroom - in car G! Joe's and Meri's car! Now they're getting really nervous.
Not long after, Covid strikes – in the two rear carriages, which are then quarantined from the rest of the train. Meri is frantic that Joe's immune system will make him more susceptible to catching and suffering from it, but he's adamant that he's just fine, thank you.
Terner Fleischmann, the manager of the train, gathers together various passengers who have some experience with the law to form an investigative team.
Meri is a lawyer and Joe, as a writer, will be handy to keep track of things. Duplantier you've met, and the quirky old ladies already know their charity thief is the man who was assigned to cabin 16G and is now missing. The others also have useful skills, but lest you think it is all a cosy, intellectual parlour game, I will add this brief excerpt.
"The blow is so completely unexpected that I think I am more stunned by the fact that it was delivered than by its impact. It's followed by a shove before I can recover. I fall heavily with no thought or time to prepare, and I catch the corner of the porcelain washbasin as I go down. The crack seems loud, and on my hands and knees, I can see blood dripping onto the tiles of the restroom floor."
It's an enjoyable read, and I bet the audio will be good. There are plenty of accents to play with.
I especially appreciated Gentill's Acknowledgments, where she says how she came to write this during her own cancer treatment. I'd like to add my thanks to all her people who kept her going. Now all I have to ask is that she bring Rowland Sinclair and his crew back!
Thanks to NetGalley and Poisoned Pen Press for providing a copy for review.
" 'He lodged with us—in the spare room—you see' Penelope pours coffee.'"So, we feel…well… not exactly responsible but obliged.'
'Could you not have called the police?' Joe appears preoccupied with a bagel, but I know the ladies have his complete attention.
'Oh, yes, well the police.' Clarice rolls her eyes. 'I'm afraid the constabulary is not what it once was… The boy in charge…' She shakes her head. 'Penny and I were compelled to take things in hand.' "
Gentill has put a pair of Aussie twins, Joe and Meredith (Meri) Penvale on board the famed Orient Express to celebrate author Joe's successful cancer treatment. To accompany them, she has added some classic character types who are perfect for this locked-room mystery.
" 'Is this your first time on the Orient Express?' I ask, as coffee and pastries are placed before us. The question, it seems, is the traditional opening between fellow travelers on the midnight-blue train.
'Why, yes dear.' Penelope takes a chocolate croissant from the basket of pastries. 'I suppose some people do this sort of thing all the time, but it's a rare treat for Clarice and me. Impossible but for the generosity of the Lower Slaughter Civic Society.'
Joe's eyes meet mine. Octogenarian bounty hunters. Odd but intriguing.
'Why does the Lower Slaughter Civic Society want you to find him?' Joe asks carefully.
'He has rather a lot of money that belongs to the society. They would like it back.'
'And they sent you to…?'
'Demand the return of their funds,' Clarice says.
'With whatever menaces necessary,' Penelope adds."
As well as these quirky old ladies, there's a retired French policeman with the delicious name of Napoleon Duplantier and the accent and charming manner to go with it. He is seated with them at dinner.
"'I am told you wish to dine with a Belgian detective,' he says handing his walking stick to the steward as he sits down beside me. 'I hope that a retired French policeman will suffice. We are not as famous, but much more handsome.'"
He fills the Poirot role nicely, and the assortment of other characters are as different from each other as possible.
"The train lurches slightly, and a passing redhead spills her drink on Joe. 'Oh, hello!' She speaks with a distinct, if slightly slurred, Scottish enunciation. It is the only thing that doesn't fit entirely with the impression that she might have stumbled out of a glamourous Hollywood film set from the forties. 'Elle Baird, Duchess of Kinross. I'm afraid your shirt has soaked up my wee martini.' She looks sadly at her now-empty glass."
She isn't in one of the tiny cabins, as Joe and Meri are – she's in a lavish stateroom, which we visit, of course. Joe and Meri have to take turns getting dressed, there is so little room to move in their tiny cabin. They have a little wash basin, but the rest rooms are at the ends of the carriages.
It isn't long before 16G, the cabin next to Joe and Meri, is found to be covered with blood – all over the walls and windows – but there's no body… and later they find no fingerprints. No body? And right next door. They can't even lock themselves in - the restrooms are elsewhere.
Next, the body of a murdered steward is found in the restroom - in car G! Joe's and Meri's car! Now they're getting really nervous.
Not long after, Covid strikes – in the two rear carriages, which are then quarantined from the rest of the train. Meri is frantic that Joe's immune system will make him more susceptible to catching and suffering from it, but he's adamant that he's just fine, thank you.
Terner Fleischmann, the manager of the train, gathers together various passengers who have some experience with the law to form an investigative team.
Meri is a lawyer and Joe, as a writer, will be handy to keep track of things. Duplantier you've met, and the quirky old ladies already know their charity thief is the man who was assigned to cabin 16G and is now missing. The others also have useful skills, but lest you think it is all a cosy, intellectual parlour game, I will add this brief excerpt.
"The blow is so completely unexpected that I think I am more stunned by the fact that it was delivered than by its impact. It's followed by a shove before I can recover. I fall heavily with no thought or time to prepare, and I catch the corner of the porcelain washbasin as I go down. The crack seems loud, and on my hands and knees, I can see blood dripping onto the tiles of the restroom floor."
It's an enjoyable read, and I bet the audio will be good. There are plenty of accents to play with.
I especially appreciated Gentill's Acknowledgments, where she says how she came to write this during her own cancer treatment. I'd like to add my thanks to all her people who kept her going. Now all I have to ask is that she bring Rowland Sinclair and his crew back!
Thanks to NetGalley and Poisoned Pen Press for providing a copy for review.
August 18, 2025
Loved it! Who wouldn't when it combines a modern day Murder on the Orient Express retelling with a great sibling sleuth duo, plus a dozen cops, detectives and lawyers all resembling different sleuths from various Agatha Christie, and perhaps other, novels. It's quite convincing how so many dead bodies could pile up on a train and people could temporarily disappear. I loved the conclusion, but I also felt like it was slightly out of place with a case of identity game-play. That said, totally kept my interest and I'd love to see a sequel for the siblings to star in another murder mystery.
August 16, 2025
Joe Penvale and his twin Meredith are travelling on the Orient Express from Paris to Istanbul. Meredith hopes the magical journey will inspire Joe to write again after a strenuous time spent in cancer treatment.
Pretty soon bodies start popping up and Joe, Meredith and a few other passengers begin looking for the murderer. At the same time a Covid type situation occurs and people are put into quarantine on the train. Neither Paris nor Vienna will allow the train to be disembarked and people find themselves locked in with a murderer on the loose. A very scary situation where even otherwise sensible people are on edge and start to behave badly.
This is a very twisty tale where basically everyone is a suspect. I enjoyed the characters - Joe and Meri are a very appealing pair. I did not spot the responsible party until the author made her reveal - there were just so many possibles to choose from! A good story well told. Four stars.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book.
Pretty soon bodies start popping up and Joe, Meredith and a few other passengers begin looking for the murderer. At the same time a Covid type situation occurs and people are put into quarantine on the train. Neither Paris nor Vienna will allow the train to be disembarked and people find themselves locked in with a murderer on the loose. A very scary situation where even otherwise sensible people are on edge and start to behave badly.
This is a very twisty tale where basically everyone is a suspect. I enjoyed the characters - Joe and Meri are a very appealing pair. I did not spot the responsible party until the author made her reveal - there were just so many possibles to choose from! A good story well told. Four stars.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book.
September 11, 2025
I’ve never read an Agatha Christie novel, but this felt like a gentle introduction. I picked up a cosy vibe—new territory for me—but I enjoyed it. The book is clever and fun, with all the classic elements to keep readers guessing. The author introduces each character fluidly as the murder and mayhem unfold.
There are red herrings scattered throughout the luxurious setting of the Orient Express. It’s opulent as you’d imagine—and the rich imagery is presented without fanfare as the body count rises. The twists and turns build quickly, and the way the story sends you in every direction to create uncertainty is smart. Add in a couple of carriages under COVID quarantine and rising tensions, I thought it was well done.
I especially enjoyed the relationship between twins Joe and Meredith—their love and support for each other was clear as they raced against the clock to solve the mystery. Joe’s role as an author added a clever layer, framing the story with a literary slant.
Fans of cosy crime will love this one. Thank you Ultimo and the author for my review copy.
There are red herrings scattered throughout the luxurious setting of the Orient Express. It’s opulent as you’d imagine—and the rich imagery is presented without fanfare as the body count rises. The twists and turns build quickly, and the way the story sends you in every direction to create uncertainty is smart. Add in a couple of carriages under COVID quarantine and rising tensions, I thought it was well done.
I especially enjoyed the relationship between twins Joe and Meredith—their love and support for each other was clear as they raced against the clock to solve the mystery. Joe’s role as an author added a clever layer, framing the story with a literary slant.
Fans of cosy crime will love this one. Thank you Ultimo and the author for my review copy.
August 22, 2025
EXCERPT: 'Murderers? On the Orient Express?' Joe regards her with mock alarm. 'Whoever heard of such a thing?'
I laugh, looking around Étoile du Nord, full of diners in their formal finery. 'It certainly looks like the set of a Christie mystery.' I lower my voice to a whisper. 'Green plaid dinner suit at the table by the door must be guilty of some sort of crime.'
Abigay twists to look at the gentleman in question - a middle-aged man whose gym-sculpted body bulges against the seams of the emerald-green checks of his probably haute couture attire. 'Against fashion, if nothing else,' she agrees. 'I'll keep a watch on him.'
Duplantier shakes his head. 'No, no . . . L'habit ne fait pas le moine. Murderers are rarely so visible . . . the perpetrator will be one you have barely noticed. He will sit a dinner being perfectly ordinary . . . or he will take his refreshments in his cabin.'
'May I direct your attention, then, to the two old ladies behind Abigay and Joe?' I lean forward and make my case. 'They arrived at the very last moment, slipped on board after everyone else had already done so, and they look like quintessential grandmothers. What's more, I'll wager that they knit. Surely that's suspicious?'
'Old ladies are poisoners,' Joe says sagely. 'Who's at their table? I don't want to alert them that we're onto them by turning around.'
'A couple. Two men.' I cock my head to pick up the conversation and the accents. 'They're American, I think. Identical tuxedos, with white silk scarves and . . .'
'Victims,' Joe concludes. 'Definitely victims!'
ABOUT 'FIVE FOUND DEAD': On a train, there are only so many places to hide…
Crime fiction author Joe Penvale has won the most brutal battle of his life. Now that he has finished his intense medical treatment, he and his twin sister, Meredith, are boarding the glorious Orient Express in Paris, hoping for some much-needed rest and rejuvenation. Meredith also hopes that the literary ghosts on the train will nudge Joe's muse awake, and he'll be inspired to write again. And he is; after their first evening spent getting to know some of their fellow travelers, Joe pulls out his laptop and opens a new document. Seems like this trip is just what the doctor ordered…
And then some. The next morning, Joe and Meredith are shocked to witness that the cabin next door has become a crime scene, bathed in blood but with no body in sight. The pair soon find themselves caught up in an Agatha Christie-esque murder investigation. Without any help from the authorities, and with the victim still not found, Joe and Meredith are asked to join a group of fellow passengers with law enforcement backgrounds to look into the mysterious disappearance of the man in Cabin 16G. But when the steward guarding the crime scene is murdered, it marks the beginning of a killing spree which leaves five found dead—and one still missing. Now Joe and Meredith must fight once again to preserve their newfound future and to catch a cunning killer before they reach the end of the line.
MY THOUGHTS: I can't make up my mind whether this is a tribute to the writing of Agatha Christie, or a tongue-in-cheek parody. It may be both. No matter. It works. Rather beautifully. Hitchcock also gets a mention.
It is all very atmospheric and almost claustrophobic. Imagine being on a train where a man has gone missing, his cabin drenched in blood and locked from the inside. The steward left to guard the scene is murdered. There has been a Covid outbreak in two carriages and they have been isolated. Borders are closed, the train not allowed to progress in case this new variant is spread. And more bodies keep appearing, none of them that of the missing man, and none of them Covid related . . .
So, we have two mysteries - that of the missing man and that of the murders. Are they related, perpetrated by the same person? Or is there more going on? My lips are sealed . . .
Five Found Dead is a fun read. I loved everything from the title (vaguely reminiscent of the Famous Five) to the characters (think Cluedo) to the magnificent setting - who can't resist the chance to ride the famed Orient Express? It's on my bucket list, although I will certainly be watching my fellow passengers closely.
Engaging, entertaining and ever so slightly over-the-top, I loved every moment I spent reading Sulari Gentill's latest offering. Gentill has cleverly blended the literary thriller she is so well known for with the cosy-mystery vibes of Agatha Christie and delivered something uniquely her own. Five Found Dead brought a sparkle to my eye and a smile of satisfaction to my face.
P.S. Be prepared for the Christie-esque 'reveal' at the end.
⭐⭐⭐⭐.5
#fivefounddead #NetGalley
MEET THE AUTHOR: SULARI GENTILL lives with her husband and sons on a small farm in the foothills of the Snowy Mountains of Australia, where she grows truffles, keeps donkeys, and writes about murder and mayhem.
DISCLOSURE: Thank you to Poisoned Pen Press via NetGalley for providing an e-ARC of Five Found Dead by Sulari Gentill for review. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own personal opinions.
https://sandysbookaday.wordpress.com/...
I laugh, looking around Étoile du Nord, full of diners in their formal finery. 'It certainly looks like the set of a Christie mystery.' I lower my voice to a whisper. 'Green plaid dinner suit at the table by the door must be guilty of some sort of crime.'
Abigay twists to look at the gentleman in question - a middle-aged man whose gym-sculpted body bulges against the seams of the emerald-green checks of his probably haute couture attire. 'Against fashion, if nothing else,' she agrees. 'I'll keep a watch on him.'
Duplantier shakes his head. 'No, no . . . L'habit ne fait pas le moine. Murderers are rarely so visible . . . the perpetrator will be one you have barely noticed. He will sit a dinner being perfectly ordinary . . . or he will take his refreshments in his cabin.'
'May I direct your attention, then, to the two old ladies behind Abigay and Joe?' I lean forward and make my case. 'They arrived at the very last moment, slipped on board after everyone else had already done so, and they look like quintessential grandmothers. What's more, I'll wager that they knit. Surely that's suspicious?'
'Old ladies are poisoners,' Joe says sagely. 'Who's at their table? I don't want to alert them that we're onto them by turning around.'
'A couple. Two men.' I cock my head to pick up the conversation and the accents. 'They're American, I think. Identical tuxedos, with white silk scarves and . . .'
'Victims,' Joe concludes. 'Definitely victims!'
ABOUT 'FIVE FOUND DEAD': On a train, there are only so many places to hide…
Crime fiction author Joe Penvale has won the most brutal battle of his life. Now that he has finished his intense medical treatment, he and his twin sister, Meredith, are boarding the glorious Orient Express in Paris, hoping for some much-needed rest and rejuvenation. Meredith also hopes that the literary ghosts on the train will nudge Joe's muse awake, and he'll be inspired to write again. And he is; after their first evening spent getting to know some of their fellow travelers, Joe pulls out his laptop and opens a new document. Seems like this trip is just what the doctor ordered…
And then some. The next morning, Joe and Meredith are shocked to witness that the cabin next door has become a crime scene, bathed in blood but with no body in sight. The pair soon find themselves caught up in an Agatha Christie-esque murder investigation. Without any help from the authorities, and with the victim still not found, Joe and Meredith are asked to join a group of fellow passengers with law enforcement backgrounds to look into the mysterious disappearance of the man in Cabin 16G. But when the steward guarding the crime scene is murdered, it marks the beginning of a killing spree which leaves five found dead—and one still missing. Now Joe and Meredith must fight once again to preserve their newfound future and to catch a cunning killer before they reach the end of the line.
MY THOUGHTS: I can't make up my mind whether this is a tribute to the writing of Agatha Christie, or a tongue-in-cheek parody. It may be both. No matter. It works. Rather beautifully. Hitchcock also gets a mention.
It is all very atmospheric and almost claustrophobic. Imagine being on a train where a man has gone missing, his cabin drenched in blood and locked from the inside. The steward left to guard the scene is murdered. There has been a Covid outbreak in two carriages and they have been isolated. Borders are closed, the train not allowed to progress in case this new variant is spread. And more bodies keep appearing, none of them that of the missing man, and none of them Covid related . . .
So, we have two mysteries - that of the missing man and that of the murders. Are they related, perpetrated by the same person? Or is there more going on? My lips are sealed . . .
Five Found Dead is a fun read. I loved everything from the title (vaguely reminiscent of the Famous Five) to the characters (think Cluedo) to the magnificent setting - who can't resist the chance to ride the famed Orient Express? It's on my bucket list, although I will certainly be watching my fellow passengers closely.
Engaging, entertaining and ever so slightly over-the-top, I loved every moment I spent reading Sulari Gentill's latest offering. Gentill has cleverly blended the literary thriller she is so well known for with the cosy-mystery vibes of Agatha Christie and delivered something uniquely her own. Five Found Dead brought a sparkle to my eye and a smile of satisfaction to my face.
P.S. Be prepared for the Christie-esque 'reveal' at the end.
⭐⭐⭐⭐.5
#fivefounddead #NetGalley
MEET THE AUTHOR: SULARI GENTILL lives with her husband and sons on a small farm in the foothills of the Snowy Mountains of Australia, where she grows truffles, keeps donkeys, and writes about murder and mayhem.
DISCLOSURE: Thank you to Poisoned Pen Press via NetGalley for providing an e-ARC of Five Found Dead by Sulari Gentill for review. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own personal opinions.
https://sandysbookaday.wordpress.com/...
August 11, 2025
Joe Penvale along with his twin sister, Meredith, and a couple of crime podcasters who've been following writer Joe's literary life, all boarded The Orient Express in Paris, headed on a great journey; a trip of a lifetime. Joe and Meredith were from Australia; Joe had just been declared cancer free after an incredible eighteen month battle, and the trip was a celebration of sorts. The siblings were hoping the magical trip would awaken Joe's writing muse, which had vanished along with his treatment. But on waking the following morning, the cabin beside theirs was in the process of being declared a crime scene; lots of blood but no body...
When a second person was murdered, a group of those onboard who had police/investigation/law backgrounds was formed to find the killer, and the body missing from 16G. Meredith was part of the group with her law background, with Joe along for the ride - he wasn't leaving Meri on her own. But the siblings didn't know if they could trust any of the group, along with passengers, so vowed to find the killer themselves. Which of course was dangerous as the killer had no compunction about who they killed. Soon there were five found dead, and still the person was missing and the killer hadn't been found.
What a gripping, intense and chilling book, Five Found Dead was! Aussie author Sulari Gentill has absolutely nailed it with this one - I loved it, and couldn't put it down. A fabulous mystery - bordering on a cosy - with exceptionally written characters; the train itself was a character! The staff on board, the journey, the delicious food and drinks, and the twisty mystery was up there with Sulari Gentill's best yet! Highly recommended.
With thanks to NetGalley & Poisoned Pen Press for my digital ARC to read and review.
When a second person was murdered, a group of those onboard who had police/investigation/law backgrounds was formed to find the killer, and the body missing from 16G. Meredith was part of the group with her law background, with Joe along for the ride - he wasn't leaving Meri on her own. But the siblings didn't know if they could trust any of the group, along with passengers, so vowed to find the killer themselves. Which of course was dangerous as the killer had no compunction about who they killed. Soon there were five found dead, and still the person was missing and the killer hadn't been found.
What a gripping, intense and chilling book, Five Found Dead was! Aussie author Sulari Gentill has absolutely nailed it with this one - I loved it, and couldn't put it down. A fabulous mystery - bordering on a cosy - with exceptionally written characters; the train itself was a character! The staff on board, the journey, the delicious food and drinks, and the twisty mystery was up there with Sulari Gentill's best yet! Highly recommended.
With thanks to NetGalley & Poisoned Pen Press for my digital ARC to read and review.
July 23, 2025
4.5 ⭐️
This was such a fun read! It was like reading a game of Clue. Even with murder being at the forefront of the novel, there were still parts that had me laughing out loud. The characters were well developed and witty and the story kept me guessing from the beginning! I didn’t want to put it down.
Thanks to Sourcebooks for the ARC to read and review. I will be recommending this book to everyone.
This was such a fun read! It was like reading a game of Clue. Even with murder being at the forefront of the novel, there were still parts that had me laughing out loud. The characters were well developed and witty and the story kept me guessing from the beginning! I didn’t want to put it down.
Thanks to Sourcebooks for the ARC to read and review. I will be recommending this book to everyone.
October 10, 2025
4.5 Stars
I really enjoyed this Book so much. I like books that involve twins, and this one about Joe, recently having gone through serious cancer treatment and his twin, Meredith reflects how close they are. They are on the Orient Express, so find being on this train an ideal setting. Creepy to be trapped inside while murders are taking place. Definitely, has Agatha Christie vibes run through the entire story. I loved the cast of eclectic characters and that it is such a fun mystery to try and figure out who is the really bad one. All around it worked for me. The only thing is so many events occurring probably was a bit much, but think it is supposed to be that way.
Recommend. Excellent and Different than your Usual Mystery/Thriller I Read. Was Exactly what I was in the Mood for.
Thank You NetGalley and Poisoned Pen Press for a Copy of this Book. I always leave reviews of books I read.
I really enjoyed this Book so much. I like books that involve twins, and this one about Joe, recently having gone through serious cancer treatment and his twin, Meredith reflects how close they are. They are on the Orient Express, so find being on this train an ideal setting. Creepy to be trapped inside while murders are taking place. Definitely, has Agatha Christie vibes run through the entire story. I loved the cast of eclectic characters and that it is such a fun mystery to try and figure out who is the really bad one. All around it worked for me. The only thing is so many events occurring probably was a bit much, but think it is supposed to be that way.
Recommend. Excellent and Different than your Usual Mystery/Thriller I Read. Was Exactly what I was in the Mood for.
Thank You NetGalley and Poisoned Pen Press for a Copy of this Book. I always leave reviews of books I read.
October 27, 2025
3.5 stars - This is in the same vein as With a Venegeance by Sager earlier this year, but a better version IMO
August 3, 2025
4.5 Stars. Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this mystery/thriller that echoes Agatha Christy's Murder on the Orient Express. This journey on the same train running from Paris, Venice, and to Istanbul, is implausible and over-the-top. It ranged from silly to ridiculous. Some passages, whether intentional or not, were hilarious. I loved it and was highly entertained.
The luxury of the train's decor, meals, and services lures guests into a sense of relaxation and pleasure. The tickets are expensive, and this is the summit of their longed-for dream journey. Many of the new passengers had a history in the law or its enforcement. This is a twisted and tangled tale containing shocking revelations and the unravelling of secrets.
The story is told in the first person by Meredith, who is travelling with her twin brother, Joe. He is recuperating from a life-threatening, lengthy illness and has been unable to focus and write a second bestselling book. Meredith hopes the trip will inspire him.
The contentment and pleasure of the trip are soon disrupted, and the trip dissolves into one of fear, anger, and unscheduled stops. The passengers and staff are intriguing, some with secret motives and identities. I wish the book had included a list and brief description of the many characters named. Some guests came aboard infected with a new, deadly, and highly infectious COVID strain, and are forcibly confined and quarantined to small cabins at the back of the train.
One of the passengers has vanished and may be dead. He was inside a cabin locked from the inside. The room is blood-soaked with no window exit. The missing man was known by several names, and nobody can figure out what happened to him. Next, two stewards from the efficient and attentive staff, and a passenger claiming to be a detective, are found murdered. No one understands why the train has turned around. At one stop, uniformed men fire guns as a warning not to disembark. The passengers are overwhelmed by fear, especially when those sick with COVID break out of confinement. Before the multi-layered, convoluted mystery is resolved, two young men who were recording events for their blogging site have been killed.
Highly recommended for prospective readers who don't mind an implausible but entertaining tale
where the solution to the mysteries is almost impossible to predict. Publication is scheduled for August 19/2025.
The luxury of the train's decor, meals, and services lures guests into a sense of relaxation and pleasure. The tickets are expensive, and this is the summit of their longed-for dream journey. Many of the new passengers had a history in the law or its enforcement. This is a twisted and tangled tale containing shocking revelations and the unravelling of secrets.
The story is told in the first person by Meredith, who is travelling with her twin brother, Joe. He is recuperating from a life-threatening, lengthy illness and has been unable to focus and write a second bestselling book. Meredith hopes the trip will inspire him.
The contentment and pleasure of the trip are soon disrupted, and the trip dissolves into one of fear, anger, and unscheduled stops. The passengers and staff are intriguing, some with secret motives and identities. I wish the book had included a list and brief description of the many characters named. Some guests came aboard infected with a new, deadly, and highly infectious COVID strain, and are forcibly confined and quarantined to small cabins at the back of the train.
One of the passengers has vanished and may be dead. He was inside a cabin locked from the inside. The room is blood-soaked with no window exit. The missing man was known by several names, and nobody can figure out what happened to him. Next, two stewards from the efficient and attentive staff, and a passenger claiming to be a detective, are found murdered. No one understands why the train has turned around. At one stop, uniformed men fire guns as a warning not to disembark. The passengers are overwhelmed by fear, especially when those sick with COVID break out of confinement. Before the multi-layered, convoluted mystery is resolved, two young men who were recording events for their blogging site have been killed.
Highly recommended for prospective readers who don't mind an implausible but entertaining tale
where the solution to the mysteries is almost impossible to predict. Publication is scheduled for August 19/2025.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 21, 2025
Five Found Dead by Sulari is a murder mystery set on the famous Orient Express, but in modern days.
First, let me thank NetGalley, the publisher Poisoned Pen Press and of course the author, for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
Well, I admit to being a little leery about a new crime scene on the legendary Orient Express. I should have realized that this author could take on the Christie train, and add some fun to it! The plot took this historic locked-room mystery up a level (I can barely believe I am saying that). Adding COVID to the mix was genius!
Except for the final podcast episodes, the entire story was told from Meredith's perspective, and nothing was missed..
The characters were amazing, and a couple that were too good to be true proved the saying. My favorite characters were definitely Joe, Meredith, and Napoleon. Flex & Herds drove me nuts.
Yes, you have to take a few things with a grain of salt (or more), but it is fiction, so while some things were rather over-the-top, I just found it more enjoyable. The outrageous things made the whole story more fun. Let's face it, if you are going to try to replicate Agatha Christie's book, you aren't going succeed without adding a little extra "something"
Anyway, I really enjoyed this book, and can't wait to see what she comes up with next!
For a more thorough review of this book and others (including the reason I chose to read/review this book, my own synopsis of the book, and its author information), please visit my blog: http://katlovesbooksblog.wordpress.com/
April 17, 2025
3/5
The plot of this book was intriguing; it can't get any better than trying to solve a murder in the Orient Express. However, as I started to read the book, I found it confusing at times as there were many characters in the story, and the story was told from a single POV. The story felt very slow at times, but the twist at the end was unexpected. TW in this story: cancer, COVID
Thank you Poisoned Pen Press for providing this book for review consideration via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
The plot of this book was intriguing; it can't get any better than trying to solve a murder in the Orient Express. However, as I started to read the book, I found it confusing at times as there were many characters in the story, and the story was told from a single POV. The story felt very slow at times, but the twist at the end was unexpected. TW in this story: cancer, COVID
Thank you Poisoned Pen Press for providing this book for review consideration via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
July 31, 2025
An Agatha Christie Homage, locked room mystery on a train with interesting and fun characters.
Smooth read, cozy and atmospheric vibes.
Overall fun and entertaining.
The only thing I didn't like is the transcript of the podcast episode at the end of the book. Didn't bring anything more to the story.
Thank you to NetGalley, Sulari Gentill and Poisoned Pen Press for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Smooth read, cozy and atmospheric vibes.
Overall fun and entertaining.
The only thing I didn't like is the transcript of the podcast episode at the end of the book. Didn't bring anything more to the story.
Thank you to NetGalley, Sulari Gentill and Poisoned Pen Press for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
July 24, 2025
Five Found Dead is a murder mystery set on the Orient Express, where crime writer Joe Penvale and his sister Meredith find themselves caught up in a series of murders after a passenger disappears, leaving behind a blood-soaked cabin. The story, reminiscent of Agatha Christie, follows Joe and Meredith as they investigate alongside a group of fellow passengers with law enforcement backgrounds, all while dealing with the added layer of a COVID-19 outbreak that restricts the train's movement.
The story is very atmospheric and descriptive , takes place during COVID on the Orient Express. It’s a locked room mystery thriller played out like a murder mystery. While the premise of this book is what caught my eye I felt this was a let down. I was left feeling like I have no idea what’s going on or why people are dying with no clues or anything to grasp at who the killer could be and the middle seemed to drag on. The characters were just fine and the big reveal wasn’t really that shocking and the reasoning why the killer was killing was just odd to me….
“It’s all a little surreal. Like we are in a bubble removed from the world though we can see it from the glamorous mobile prison into which we have been incarcerated with a murder and disease.”
Thank you NetGalley and Poisoned Pen Press for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Publication Date: August 19, 2025
The story is very atmospheric and descriptive , takes place during COVID on the Orient Express. It’s a locked room mystery thriller played out like a murder mystery. While the premise of this book is what caught my eye I felt this was a let down. I was left feeling like I have no idea what’s going on or why people are dying with no clues or anything to grasp at who the killer could be and the middle seemed to drag on. The characters were just fine and the big reveal wasn’t really that shocking and the reasoning why the killer was killing was just odd to me….
“It’s all a little surreal. Like we are in a bubble removed from the world though we can see it from the glamorous mobile prison into which we have been incarcerated with a murder and disease.”
Thank you NetGalley and Poisoned Pen Press for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Publication Date: August 19, 2025
September 11, 2025
Just no. Not for me.
September 14, 2025
Sulari Gentill remains the reigning queen of the metafictional mystery-thriller. Five Found Dead is sharp, it's funny, and it kept me guessing all the way to the very end. I heartily recommend it to any and all mystery fans.
My full review of Five Found Dead is up now on Keeping Up With The Penguins.
My full review of Five Found Dead is up now on Keeping Up With The Penguins.
August 4, 2025
Five Found Dead is the fourth stand-alone novel by award-wining, best-selling Australian author, Sulari Gentill. Meredith Penvale had put her career as a corporate lawyer on hold to support her twin brother, Joe through his cancer journey. Now with the all-clear, they are celebrating with a trip on the Orient Express, Paris to Istanbul. Meri is hoping it will spark the muse, worryingly absent during the cancer treatment, that helped Joe hit the best-seller list with his first crime novel.
Joe tells her that he can feel the presence of Christie, Hitchcock and co on the train, and she’s pleased to see him tapping away on his laptop already. While they don’t have a rotund Belgian detective for company at dinner, they do get an attractive retired French gendarme and a Jamaican-born Novocastrian policewoman on vacation, and they have fun speculating about their fellow travellers. The Orient Express is everything they dreamed of.
The next morning, things are different: the cabin next door to Joe and Meri’s is thoroughly blood-splattered, but there’s no sign of the body of the unfriendly man they encountered going in the night before. The train manager places a steward on guard at the cabin’s door, but too soon, the man is absent, only to be found later, stabbed to death.
At which point, the manager gathers together passengers (as you do) with a background in police work, the law, or a connection with the elusive passenger. There’s a surprising number of them, and he reasons that surely this wide knowledge base will be able to prevent further deaths. Think again! Meri is included for her legal expertise, irrelevant though it may be, and Joe is included by default: she’s not leaving him behind alone. They deduce, he sits in the middle and turns it into a novel.
Passengers (an entitled bunch) are none too pleased to be confined to cabins. And just to add another twist, the last two passengers on at Gare de l’Est test positive for a highly virulent strain of COVID; OE management quarantines the end two carriages, and outside communications are disabled. What else can go wrong?
What a wonderfully quirky cast of characters! Law enforcement officers, past and present, from a wide variety of jurisdictions, many of whom seem to know something of the missing passenger; two Australian podcasters well known to Joe and Meri; a Duchess and her tame Chicago cop; a pair of Miss Marple-like old women; a finance guy and his travel-writer wife; a Russian gangster; and a woman who might be stalking Joe.
It’s easy to see that the author had a lot of fun with this, and also called on some personal experience, all to good effect. There are clues and distractions and red herrings, enough to keep the reader guessing and the pages turning right up to the reveal. Tongue-in-cheek hilarious!
This unbiased review is from an uncorrected proof copy provided by NetGalley and Poisoned Pen Press.
Joe tells her that he can feel the presence of Christie, Hitchcock and co on the train, and she’s pleased to see him tapping away on his laptop already. While they don’t have a rotund Belgian detective for company at dinner, they do get an attractive retired French gendarme and a Jamaican-born Novocastrian policewoman on vacation, and they have fun speculating about their fellow travellers. The Orient Express is everything they dreamed of.
The next morning, things are different: the cabin next door to Joe and Meri’s is thoroughly blood-splattered, but there’s no sign of the body of the unfriendly man they encountered going in the night before. The train manager places a steward on guard at the cabin’s door, but too soon, the man is absent, only to be found later, stabbed to death.
At which point, the manager gathers together passengers (as you do) with a background in police work, the law, or a connection with the elusive passenger. There’s a surprising number of them, and he reasons that surely this wide knowledge base will be able to prevent further deaths. Think again! Meri is included for her legal expertise, irrelevant though it may be, and Joe is included by default: she’s not leaving him behind alone. They deduce, he sits in the middle and turns it into a novel.
Passengers (an entitled bunch) are none too pleased to be confined to cabins. And just to add another twist, the last two passengers on at Gare de l’Est test positive for a highly virulent strain of COVID; OE management quarantines the end two carriages, and outside communications are disabled. What else can go wrong?
What a wonderfully quirky cast of characters! Law enforcement officers, past and present, from a wide variety of jurisdictions, many of whom seem to know something of the missing passenger; two Australian podcasters well known to Joe and Meri; a Duchess and her tame Chicago cop; a pair of Miss Marple-like old women; a finance guy and his travel-writer wife; a Russian gangster; and a woman who might be stalking Joe.
It’s easy to see that the author had a lot of fun with this, and also called on some personal experience, all to good effect. There are clues and distractions and red herrings, enough to keep the reader guessing and the pages turning right up to the reveal. Tongue-in-cheek hilarious!
This unbiased review is from an uncorrected proof copy provided by NetGalley and Poisoned Pen Press.
October 1, 2025
Being stuck on a train having to quarantine due to COVID & with a k!ller on the loose is probably not the best way to start your day! This chilling scenario, and the complicated cast of characters kept me wondering who could be trusted. With no true Law enforcement on board, Joe & his twin sister Meredith began their own investigation with a group of unlikeliest suspects! Mix junior sleuths with quarantined individuals afraid of a k!ller, and there’s bound to be chaos.
Overall, a decent read with enough suspense to keep you intrigued, and good for those that enjoy slow burn mysteries with an nsettling edge. I would almost classify this as a “cozy mystery” because although bodies kept piling up, the coming relief kept it light. Thank you Poisoned Pen Press and NetGalley for an advanced reader copy. All opinions are my own.
Overall, a decent read with enough suspense to keep you intrigued, and good for those that enjoy slow burn mysteries with an nsettling edge. I would almost classify this as a “cozy mystery” because although bodies kept piling up, the coming relief kept it light. Thank you Poisoned Pen Press and NetGalley for an advanced reader copy. All opinions are my own.
August 14, 2025
Special thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for a free, electronic ARC of this novel received in exchange for an honest review.
Expected publication date: Aug. 19, 2025
Sulari Gentill, lawyer-turned-author, has taken “Murder on the Orient Express” and given it a modern twist. Her new novel, “Five Found Dead”, takes place on the infamous train, where a crime fiction author and his lawyer sister become embroiled in an actual murder mystery.
Meredith Penvale is a lawyer, who took some time away from her occupation to care for her ailing twin brother, Joe, an author. Now that Joe is in remission, the twins decide to take a vacation, booking a trip on the Orient Express, in hopes that Joe will find inspiration for his second novel. Both Meredith and Joe do not expect, however, to be brought into an actual murder investigation on the train, as the bodies of travelers and stewards alike continue to pile up. With a recent Covid outbreak plaguing Paris, the passengers can’t disembark, so the train is at a literal standstill, which means the murderer is on board. Time is running out for the Penvale twins to help discover the identity of the new murderer of the Orient Express.
“Dead” is a superbly modernized re-creation of Christie’s “Express”, with Gentill’s own personal touch. Meredith is the protagonist and, along with her brother Joe, they begin to investigate the murders, along with the help of some very eccentric passengers. Although there are many characters aboard the train, the main ones are so eclectic and unconventional that they stand out, with their quirky and hilarious personalities. Of course, with more than half the train on lockdown due to the Covid virus, Gentill has created a reasonable suspect pool for the murderer to hide within, making the guessing game to find the killer addictive and completely suspenseful.
The relationship between Joe and Meredith is charming, and both characters are likable. In fact, it is hard to take a stab (haha) at who the suspect is, because all of the passengers on the train are completely relatable, hilarious and delightful. When the final twist is revealed, it totally caught me off guard in the best way. The unexpected yet believable ending speaks to Gentill’s ability to craft a well-developed plot, ensuring all of the remaining questions have been answered.
Christie’s “Orient” is a classic for a very good reason, but Gentill has developed a modern take that deserves recognition in its own right. “Dead” is completely immersive, engaging and entertaining, and Gentill has managed to pay tribute to Christie and similar writers of that time, all while leaving her own mark in a story all her own.
Expected publication date: Aug. 19, 2025
Sulari Gentill, lawyer-turned-author, has taken “Murder on the Orient Express” and given it a modern twist. Her new novel, “Five Found Dead”, takes place on the infamous train, where a crime fiction author and his lawyer sister become embroiled in an actual murder mystery.
Meredith Penvale is a lawyer, who took some time away from her occupation to care for her ailing twin brother, Joe, an author. Now that Joe is in remission, the twins decide to take a vacation, booking a trip on the Orient Express, in hopes that Joe will find inspiration for his second novel. Both Meredith and Joe do not expect, however, to be brought into an actual murder investigation on the train, as the bodies of travelers and stewards alike continue to pile up. With a recent Covid outbreak plaguing Paris, the passengers can’t disembark, so the train is at a literal standstill, which means the murderer is on board. Time is running out for the Penvale twins to help discover the identity of the new murderer of the Orient Express.
“Dead” is a superbly modernized re-creation of Christie’s “Express”, with Gentill’s own personal touch. Meredith is the protagonist and, along with her brother Joe, they begin to investigate the murders, along with the help of some very eccentric passengers. Although there are many characters aboard the train, the main ones are so eclectic and unconventional that they stand out, with their quirky and hilarious personalities. Of course, with more than half the train on lockdown due to the Covid virus, Gentill has created a reasonable suspect pool for the murderer to hide within, making the guessing game to find the killer addictive and completely suspenseful.
The relationship between Joe and Meredith is charming, and both characters are likable. In fact, it is hard to take a stab (haha) at who the suspect is, because all of the passengers on the train are completely relatable, hilarious and delightful. When the final twist is revealed, it totally caught me off guard in the best way. The unexpected yet believable ending speaks to Gentill’s ability to craft a well-developed plot, ensuring all of the remaining questions have been answered.
Christie’s “Orient” is a classic for a very good reason, but Gentill has developed a modern take that deserves recognition in its own right. “Dead” is completely immersive, engaging and entertaining, and Gentill has managed to pay tribute to Christie and similar writers of that time, all while leaving her own mark in a story all her own.
August 15, 2025
Thanks to NetGalley and Poisoned Pen Press for the ARC. It hasn't affected the contents of my review.
This was a really solid murder mystery, but I do want to warn everyone that it is nowhere near as twisty and meta as you might be expecting if you've read some of her previous books. Don't do like I did and keep waiting for some mega surprising twist at the end; it's not that kind of book. When they say they've solved the mystery, they've solved the mystery!
Anyway, non-meta stuff aside, this is a fun story about a brother and sister treating themselves to a ride on the infamous Orient Express. The brother is a crime writer and is recently in remission from cancer (I learned via the acknowledgements that it's based on the author's recent experiences) so they're there to celebrate. But of course there is a murder. And another. Another. Until there are five. Obvs.
The conductor brings together all the people with experience of crime and the law, hoping to get some advice before the train can make it back to Paris (a little bit of COVID makes an appearance and Italy refuses to let them disembark). Of course these people take it upon themselves to try and solve the crime themselves, and it is chaotic and fun.
I said this wasn't as meta as her previous books, but it is still pretty meta, in that the story openly acknowledges the history of the train in fiction, and how that has changed the trail in real life, and how these murders would not be happening if crime writers of the past hadn't made the train so infamous. As always, I like the way this author writes about writers (she's done it all three of the books I've read from her).
I will continue to read books from this author, as she scratches an itch I frequently have about whodunits involving writers and/or books.
This was a really solid murder mystery, but I do want to warn everyone that it is nowhere near as twisty and meta as you might be expecting if you've read some of her previous books. Don't do like I did and keep waiting for some mega surprising twist at the end; it's not that kind of book. When they say they've solved the mystery, they've solved the mystery!
Anyway, non-meta stuff aside, this is a fun story about a brother and sister treating themselves to a ride on the infamous Orient Express. The brother is a crime writer and is recently in remission from cancer (I learned via the acknowledgements that it's based on the author's recent experiences) so they're there to celebrate. But of course there is a murder. And another. Another. Until there are five. Obvs.
The conductor brings together all the people with experience of crime and the law, hoping to get some advice before the train can make it back to Paris (a little bit of COVID makes an appearance and Italy refuses to let them disembark). Of course these people take it upon themselves to try and solve the crime themselves, and it is chaotic and fun.
I said this wasn't as meta as her previous books, but it is still pretty meta, in that the story openly acknowledges the history of the train in fiction, and how that has changed the trail in real life, and how these murders would not be happening if crime writers of the past hadn't made the train so infamous. As always, I like the way this author writes about writers (she's done it all three of the books I've read from her).
I will continue to read books from this author, as she scratches an itch I frequently have about whodunits involving writers and/or books.
November 7, 2025
* Boring, Repetitive, Dull *
Outlier review here. Every one of my GoodReads friends who reviewed FIVE FOUND DEAD gave it a four-star rating. I read their reviews: a farcical mystery based on stories and characters created by Agatha Christie and other Golden Age mystery writers. So, I thought it was right up my alley. I love a good farce and I love Christie and her cohorts. Thus, although I had never heard of the author, I borrowed it from the library.
As soon as I started reading, I felt disappointment. The beginning was so boring. The two main characters, Joe Penvale and his twin sister Meredith seemed to be channeling Christie's Tommy and Tuppence characters, my least liked Christie series; still, I remember finding Tommy and Tuppence somewhat humorous when I read their stories so many years ago. But in addition to the Penvale twins, who I really didn't care much about, the descriptive passages in FIVE FOUND DEAD were incredibly dull. I stopped reading.
I tried again the next day. The twins were travelling on the Orient Express, and they met characters who were based on other Golden Age mysteries, some of whom I recognized and some of whom I didn't. There were two Miss Marple clones, a Frenchman resembling Inspector Maigret, and others I didn't immediately recognize. Still boring. So I stopped and read another book.
I started again a few days later. A murder. Maybe the pace would quicken. But it didn't. I started to skim read, just trying to get through it. There were multitudes of characters that I couldn't keep track of. But none of these other characters were described in depth, so they felt meaningless to me. I couldn't emphasize with any of them. And no farcical comedy, something I had expected when I chose the book.
More murders, more meaningless characters. No clues. No character development. Not much of a plot.
The murderer was a surprise, but the time the big reveal came, I didn't care.
I have never read such a poor book. It might be a "me" problem, because I don't like the author's writing style, but I definitely will never read another book by her again.
Thanks to the Greater Victoria Public Library for providing the ebook that I read.
Outlier review here. Every one of my GoodReads friends who reviewed FIVE FOUND DEAD gave it a four-star rating. I read their reviews: a farcical mystery based on stories and characters created by Agatha Christie and other Golden Age mystery writers. So, I thought it was right up my alley. I love a good farce and I love Christie and her cohorts. Thus, although I had never heard of the author, I borrowed it from the library.
As soon as I started reading, I felt disappointment. The beginning was so boring. The two main characters, Joe Penvale and his twin sister Meredith seemed to be channeling Christie's Tommy and Tuppence characters, my least liked Christie series; still, I remember finding Tommy and Tuppence somewhat humorous when I read their stories so many years ago. But in addition to the Penvale twins, who I really didn't care much about, the descriptive passages in FIVE FOUND DEAD were incredibly dull. I stopped reading.
I tried again the next day. The twins were travelling on the Orient Express, and they met characters who were based on other Golden Age mysteries, some of whom I recognized and some of whom I didn't. There were two Miss Marple clones, a Frenchman resembling Inspector Maigret, and others I didn't immediately recognize. Still boring. So I stopped and read another book.
I started again a few days later. A murder. Maybe the pace would quicken. But it didn't. I started to skim read, just trying to get through it. There were multitudes of characters that I couldn't keep track of. But none of these other characters were described in depth, so they felt meaningless to me. I couldn't emphasize with any of them. And no farcical comedy, something I had expected when I chose the book.
More murders, more meaningless characters. No clues. No character development. Not much of a plot.
The murderer was a surprise, but the time the big reveal came, I didn't care.
I have never read such a poor book. It might be a "me" problem, because I don't like the author's writing style, but I definitely will never read another book by her again.
Thanks to the Greater Victoria Public Library for providing the ebook that I read.
October 2, 2025
How can you resist a story about murders on the Orient Express…no not that book, a modern sort of version. I was intrigued. A very entertaining, sometimes over the top murder mystery on a train across Europe.
If being locked in a train with a killer isn’t enough, there is also a Covid outbreak that isolates the passengers even more. A cabin covered in blood with no body, and a crime writer who is celebrating his cancer recovery with his twin sister. Oh and there are podcasters too. Who will end up dead and who will survive this locked train mystery.
Thanks so much to Ultimo Press for sending me a copy of this book to read. It is out now and a fun read for anyone who loves a good mystery.
If being locked in a train with a killer isn’t enough, there is also a Covid outbreak that isolates the passengers even more. A cabin covered in blood with no body, and a crime writer who is celebrating his cancer recovery with his twin sister. Oh and there are podcasters too. Who will end up dead and who will survive this locked train mystery.
Thanks so much to Ultimo Press for sending me a copy of this book to read. It is out now and a fun read for anyone who loves a good mystery.
Want to read
January 27, 2025ooh I've read another by this author and loved it!
A huge thank you to the author and publisher for providing an e-ARC via Netgalley. This does not affect my opinion regarding the book.
A huge thank you to the author and publisher for providing an e-ARC via Netgalley. This does not affect my opinion regarding the book.
June 2, 2025
I love this author’s writing style. They effortlessly exhale coziness, even when their stories carry a lot of mystery. There’s just something warm and inviting about the way they write.
That said, this one didn’t land quite as well for me as their previous work has. It was incredibly silly, but in a genuinely delightful way - wild, implausible and still somehow enjoyable. The heavy inspiration from Murder on the Orient Express was noticeable and, at times, a bit much, but in the end, it kind of just... worked.
There were moments where the plot lost me and felt a bit overwhelming, but overall, it was still a fun and cozy mystery read.
A thank you to the author, the publisher and NetGalley for providing me a copy of the book in exchange for an unbiased and honest review.
That said, this one didn’t land quite as well for me as their previous work has. It was incredibly silly, but in a genuinely delightful way - wild, implausible and still somehow enjoyable. The heavy inspiration from Murder on the Orient Express was noticeable and, at times, a bit much, but in the end, it kind of just... worked.
There were moments where the plot lost me and felt a bit overwhelming, but overall, it was still a fun and cozy mystery read.
A thank you to the author, the publisher and NetGalley for providing me a copy of the book in exchange for an unbiased and honest review.
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