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The Opposite of Murder
Not yet published
Expected 29 Jan 26What if the only way to prevent a murder is by confessing to it?
Jemma Stelling has confessed to a crime - one she can't have committed. She has an unshakeable when Marianne Upton was stabbed to death outside her home, Jemma was at the police station confessing to a deadly obsession with Marianne and a plan to kill her in precisely the way she was killed.
So is Jemma innocent? Or is she an ingenious, cold-blooded murderer?
Jemma Stelling has confessed to a crime - one she can't have committed. She has an unshakeable when Marianne Upton was stabbed to death outside her home, Jemma was at the police station confessing to a deadly obsession with Marianne and a plan to kill her in precisely the way she was killed.
So is Jemma innocent? Or is she an ingenious, cold-blooded murderer?
Audible Audio
Expected publication January 29, 2026
3 people are currently reading
189 people want to read
About the author
Sophie Hannah
106 books4,515 followersSophie Hannah is an internationally bestselling writer of psychological crime fiction, published in 27 countries. In 2013, her latest novel, The Carrier, won the Crime Thriller of the Year Award at the Specsavers National Book Awards. Two of Sophie’s crime novels, The Point of Rescue and The Other Half Lives, have been adapted for television and appeared on ITV1 under the series title Case Sensitive in 2011 and 2012. In 2004, Sophie won first prize in the Daphne Du Maurier Festival Short Story Competition for her suspense story The Octopus Nest, which is now published in her first collection of short stories, The Fantastic Book of Everybody’s Secrets.
Sophie has also published five collections of poetry. Her fifth, Pessimism for Beginners, was shortlisted for the 2007 T S Eliot Award. Her poetry is studied at GCSE, A-level and degree level across the UK. From 1997 to 1999 she was Fellow Commoner in Creative Arts at Trinity College, Cambridge, and between 1999 and 2001 she was a fellow of Wolfson College, Oxford. She is forty-one and lives with her husband and children in Cambridge, where she is a Fellow Commoner at Lucy Cavendish College. She is currently working on a new challenge for the little grey cells of Hercule Poirot, Agatha Christie’s famous detective.
Sophie has also published five collections of poetry. Her fifth, Pessimism for Beginners, was shortlisted for the 2007 T S Eliot Award. Her poetry is studied at GCSE, A-level and degree level across the UK. From 1997 to 1999 she was Fellow Commoner in Creative Arts at Trinity College, Cambridge, and between 1999 and 2001 she was a fellow of Wolfson College, Oxford. She is forty-one and lives with her husband and children in Cambridge, where she is a Fellow Commoner at Lucy Cavendish College. She is currently working on a new challenge for the little grey cells of Hercule Poirot, Agatha Christie’s famous detective.
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Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews
December 4, 2025
I adore Sophie Hannah's novels and The Opposite of Murder was another winner for me. I sometimes feel that Sophie is criminally underrated and for some reason however I do understand why some people may not love her the way I do.
In TOOM, we meet Jemma Stelling in a police station confessing to a murderous desire to kill Marianne Upton. Jemma is hoping that confessing to the desire to kill Marianne will mean she will never carry out the act - knowing that should she ever do it, the Police would know right away it was her.
However, at the very time Jemma is confessing to this desire, Marianne is actually murdered. Whilst we know it could not have been Jemma who carried out the fateful act, Marianne's murder leads to a number of questions and unravels a lifetime of secrets, desires, jealousy and much more.
Like I say, I am a massive fan of Sophie and especially the Spilling CID series of which I think this is book 12. Simon, Charlie and the team work tirelessly and frustratingly to try and unravel this mystery and, as usual, it is the brilliant Simon Waterhouse who finally figures it out....and you'll be glad he did....cause there is no way you will!
Thanks to Netgalley and Hodder & Stoughton for an ARC in exchange for an honest review
In TOOM, we meet Jemma Stelling in a police station confessing to a murderous desire to kill Marianne Upton. Jemma is hoping that confessing to the desire to kill Marianne will mean she will never carry out the act - knowing that should she ever do it, the Police would know right away it was her.
However, at the very time Jemma is confessing to this desire, Marianne is actually murdered. Whilst we know it could not have been Jemma who carried out the fateful act, Marianne's murder leads to a number of questions and unravels a lifetime of secrets, desires, jealousy and much more.
Like I say, I am a massive fan of Sophie and especially the Spilling CID series of which I think this is book 12. Simon, Charlie and the team work tirelessly and frustratingly to try and unravel this mystery and, as usual, it is the brilliant Simon Waterhouse who finally figures it out....and you'll be glad he did....cause there is no way you will!
Thanks to Netgalley and Hodder & Stoughton for an ARC in exchange for an honest review
October 21, 2024
A Mind-Bending Psychological Thriller That Challenges Reality
In the realm of psychological thrillers, few authors can match Sophie Hannah's ability to craft intricate puzzles of the human psyche. Her latest offering, The Opposite of Murder, is a masterclass in misdirection and unreliable narration that will leave readers questioning everything they think they know until the very last page. With her trademark blend of razor-sharp wit and psychological insight, Hannah has crafted a novel that is both a gripping page-turner and a profound exploration of the nature of truth, guilt, and the sometimes blurry line between victim and perpetrator.
A Confession Without a Crime
At the heart of this labyrinthine tale is Jemma Stelling, a woman who walks into a police station to confess to a murder she hasn't committed yet. It's a premise that immediately hooks the reader, raising a host of intriguing questions. Is Jemma genuinely planning to kill someone? Is she mentally unstable? Or is there something far more complex at play?
Hannah expertly peels back the layers of this onion-like plot, revealing new twists and turns with each chapter. As we delve deeper into Jemma's psyche and her complicated relationships with her family, particularly her domineering stepmother Marianne, the lines between reality and perception become increasingly blurred.
The Art of Misdirection
One of Hannah's greatest strengths as a writer is her ability to lead readers down one path, only to pull the rug out from under them just when they think they've figured things out. In The Opposite of Murder, she employs this skill to great effect, crafting a narrative that is as much about the unreliability of memory and perception as it is about the central mystery.
The novel's structure, which alternates between present-day events and diary entries from the past, adds another layer of complexity to the story. These glimpses into the past not only provide crucial backstory but also serve to muddy the waters further, as the reader is forced to question the reliability of these accounts.
A Cast of Complex Characters
While Jemma is undoubtedly the central figure of the novel, Hannah populates her story with a rich cast of supporting characters, each with their own secrets and motivations. Particularly noteworthy is the character of Marianne, Jemma's stepmother, whose manipulative and controlling nature is gradually revealed through both present-day interactions and past diary entries.
The relationship between Jemma and Marianne is the beating heart of the novel, a toxic dance of love, hate, and mutual dependence that drives much of the story's conflict. Hannah's nuanced portrayal of this complex dynamic is one of the book's greatest strengths, offering a painfully realistic depiction of a dysfunctional family relationship.
Themes of Truth, Guilt, and Perception
Beyond its gripping plot, The Opposite of Murder grapples with weighty themes that elevate it above the typical thriller. Hannah explores the nature of truth and how it can be twisted and manipulated, both by others and by our own minds. The novel also delves into the psychology of guilt and the ways in which past traumas can shape our present actions.
Perhaps most intriguingly, Hannah plays with the concept of perception and how our understanding of reality can be influenced by those around us. The novel's title itself is a puzzle, inviting readers to consider what the opposite of murder might be and how such a concept relates to the story at hand.
A Master of the Psychological Thriller
Fans of Sophie Hannah's previous works, such as Little Face and The Monogram Murders, will find much to love in The Opposite of Murder. The author's signature style - a blend of psychological depth, clever plotting, and dark humor - is on full display here, refined to near perfection.
For those new to Hannah's work, this novel serves as an excellent introduction to her unique brand of psychological thriller. While it shares some DNA with other giants of the genre like Gillian Flynn or Paula Hawkins, Hannah's voice is distinctly her own, characterized by its sharp wit and psychological acuity.
Strengths and Potential Weaknesses
The Opposite of Murder is a novel that rewards close attention and rereading. Hannah's intricate plotting ensures that even seemingly throwaway details can take on new significance in light of later revelations. This complexity is both a strength and a potential weakness; while many readers will relish the challenge of unraveling the mystery, some may find the twists and turns overwhelming.
Similarly, Hannah's use of unreliable narration and shifting perspectives, while brilliantly executed, may frustrate readers who prefer more straightforward storytelling. However, for those willing to embrace the ambiguity and uncertainty, the payoff is immensely satisfying.
A Thrilling Psychological Puzzle
In The Opposite of Murder, Sophie Hannah has crafted a psychological thriller that is as intellectually stimulating as it is emotionally gripping. With its intricate plot, complex characters, and thought-provoking themes, this novel is sure to linger in readers' minds long after they've turned the final page.
Hannah's skill in manipulating reader expectations and challenging our perceptions of reality is on full display here, resulting in a reading experience that is both exhilarating and unsettling. Like the best psychological thrillers, The Opposite of Murder forces us to question not only the reliability of the characters but also our own ability to discern truth from fiction.
In Conclusion: A Must-Read for Thriller Fans
For fans of psychological thrillers that challenge the mind as much as they quicken the pulse, The Possibility of of Murder is an absolute must-read. Sophie Hannah has once again proven herself to be a master of the genre, delivering a novel that is as thought-provoking as it is entertaining.
With its clever premise, intricate plotting, and deep psychological insights, this book is sure to satisfy both longtime Hannah fans and newcomers to her work. It's a novel that demands to be discussed, debated, and revisited, making it an ideal choice for book clubs and thriller enthusiasts alike.
In a genre that can sometimes feel oversaturated, The Opposite of Murder stands out as a shining example of what a psychological thriller can be when crafted by a true master of the form. It's a testament to Hannah's skill as a writer and her unique ability to get inside the heads of her characters - and her readers.
In the realm of psychological thrillers, few authors can match Sophie Hannah's ability to craft intricate puzzles of the human psyche. Her latest offering, The Opposite of Murder, is a masterclass in misdirection and unreliable narration that will leave readers questioning everything they think they know until the very last page. With her trademark blend of razor-sharp wit and psychological insight, Hannah has crafted a novel that is both a gripping page-turner and a profound exploration of the nature of truth, guilt, and the sometimes blurry line between victim and perpetrator.
A Confession Without a Crime
At the heart of this labyrinthine tale is Jemma Stelling, a woman who walks into a police station to confess to a murder she hasn't committed yet. It's a premise that immediately hooks the reader, raising a host of intriguing questions. Is Jemma genuinely planning to kill someone? Is she mentally unstable? Or is there something far more complex at play?
Hannah expertly peels back the layers of this onion-like plot, revealing new twists and turns with each chapter. As we delve deeper into Jemma's psyche and her complicated relationships with her family, particularly her domineering stepmother Marianne, the lines between reality and perception become increasingly blurred.
The Art of Misdirection
One of Hannah's greatest strengths as a writer is her ability to lead readers down one path, only to pull the rug out from under them just when they think they've figured things out. In The Opposite of Murder, she employs this skill to great effect, crafting a narrative that is as much about the unreliability of memory and perception as it is about the central mystery.
The novel's structure, which alternates between present-day events and diary entries from the past, adds another layer of complexity to the story. These glimpses into the past not only provide crucial backstory but also serve to muddy the waters further, as the reader is forced to question the reliability of these accounts.
A Cast of Complex Characters
While Jemma is undoubtedly the central figure of the novel, Hannah populates her story with a rich cast of supporting characters, each with their own secrets and motivations. Particularly noteworthy is the character of Marianne, Jemma's stepmother, whose manipulative and controlling nature is gradually revealed through both present-day interactions and past diary entries.
The relationship between Jemma and Marianne is the beating heart of the novel, a toxic dance of love, hate, and mutual dependence that drives much of the story's conflict. Hannah's nuanced portrayal of this complex dynamic is one of the book's greatest strengths, offering a painfully realistic depiction of a dysfunctional family relationship.
Themes of Truth, Guilt, and Perception
Beyond its gripping plot, The Opposite of Murder grapples with weighty themes that elevate it above the typical thriller. Hannah explores the nature of truth and how it can be twisted and manipulated, both by others and by our own minds. The novel also delves into the psychology of guilt and the ways in which past traumas can shape our present actions.
Perhaps most intriguingly, Hannah plays with the concept of perception and how our understanding of reality can be influenced by those around us. The novel's title itself is a puzzle, inviting readers to consider what the opposite of murder might be and how such a concept relates to the story at hand.
A Master of the Psychological Thriller
Fans of Sophie Hannah's previous works, such as Little Face and The Monogram Murders, will find much to love in The Opposite of Murder. The author's signature style - a blend of psychological depth, clever plotting, and dark humor - is on full display here, refined to near perfection.
For those new to Hannah's work, this novel serves as an excellent introduction to her unique brand of psychological thriller. While it shares some DNA with other giants of the genre like Gillian Flynn or Paula Hawkins, Hannah's voice is distinctly her own, characterized by its sharp wit and psychological acuity.
Strengths and Potential Weaknesses
The Opposite of Murder is a novel that rewards close attention and rereading. Hannah's intricate plotting ensures that even seemingly throwaway details can take on new significance in light of later revelations. This complexity is both a strength and a potential weakness; while many readers will relish the challenge of unraveling the mystery, some may find the twists and turns overwhelming.
Similarly, Hannah's use of unreliable narration and shifting perspectives, while brilliantly executed, may frustrate readers who prefer more straightforward storytelling. However, for those willing to embrace the ambiguity and uncertainty, the payoff is immensely satisfying.
A Thrilling Psychological Puzzle
In The Opposite of Murder, Sophie Hannah has crafted a psychological thriller that is as intellectually stimulating as it is emotionally gripping. With its intricate plot, complex characters, and thought-provoking themes, this novel is sure to linger in readers' minds long after they've turned the final page.
Hannah's skill in manipulating reader expectations and challenging our perceptions of reality is on full display here, resulting in a reading experience that is both exhilarating and unsettling. Like the best psychological thrillers, The Opposite of Murder forces us to question not only the reliability of the characters but also our own ability to discern truth from fiction.
In Conclusion: A Must-Read for Thriller Fans
For fans of psychological thrillers that challenge the mind as much as they quicken the pulse, The Possibility of of Murder is an absolute must-read. Sophie Hannah has once again proven herself to be a master of the genre, delivering a novel that is as thought-provoking as it is entertaining.
With its clever premise, intricate plotting, and deep psychological insights, this book is sure to satisfy both longtime Hannah fans and newcomers to her work. It's a novel that demands to be discussed, debated, and revisited, making it an ideal choice for book clubs and thriller enthusiasts alike.
In a genre that can sometimes feel oversaturated, The Opposite of Murder stands out as a shining example of what a psychological thriller can be when crafted by a true master of the form. It's a testament to Hannah's skill as a writer and her unique ability to get inside the heads of her characters - and her readers.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This is such a twisted thriller, and I adored it. What happens when someone admits to plotting a murder in detail and then confesses to it at a police station before the actual murder takes place?
This is exactly what Jemma Sterling does. There is, however, a problem: a murder has taken place! It was committed at the same time as Jemma was at the police station and in the way she had planned to do it. But, obviously, it cannot be Jemma as she was talking to a detective a the time.
Details of the plan, Jemma's life with her husband, Paddy and their daughter, Lottie, her relationship with her stepmother, Marianne, who was the murder victim, a past romance, and how a mysterious locked room has suddenly been cleared of all the items contained within it.
The author spends time allowing the reader to understand the people in this story, but there is always something that is being held back. There is a police investigation, but the main focus is on Detective Simon Waterhouse and his "off the books" investigation. There are reasons behind this line of enquiry, and while there may be some readers who disagree with this happening, it does actually add to the thriller and suspenseful nature of the plot. It is, after all, a story and a work of fiction.
The plots are numerous, and you are expertly led through them. I did go through a few guesses, and while I can say I was correct at one point or another, I was nowhere near the real reasons. In truth, the perpetrator could be any one of the characters, so in essence, I didn't correctly choose.
This is a character-led story that has depth and drew me in from the beginning. It is complex, and at times far-fetched, but again, this is something that I didn't mind, and it added to the feel of the story. A crime thriller, based firmly within a family, with secrets and a whole lot more. I would definitely recommend this one.
This is exactly what Jemma Sterling does. There is, however, a problem: a murder has taken place! It was committed at the same time as Jemma was at the police station and in the way she had planned to do it. But, obviously, it cannot be Jemma as she was talking to a detective a the time.
Details of the plan, Jemma's life with her husband, Paddy and their daughter, Lottie, her relationship with her stepmother, Marianne, who was the murder victim, a past romance, and how a mysterious locked room has suddenly been cleared of all the items contained within it.
The author spends time allowing the reader to understand the people in this story, but there is always something that is being held back. There is a police investigation, but the main focus is on Detective Simon Waterhouse and his "off the books" investigation. There are reasons behind this line of enquiry, and while there may be some readers who disagree with this happening, it does actually add to the thriller and suspenseful nature of the plot. It is, after all, a story and a work of fiction.
The plots are numerous, and you are expertly led through them. I did go through a few guesses, and while I can say I was correct at one point or another, I was nowhere near the real reasons. In truth, the perpetrator could be any one of the characters, so in essence, I didn't correctly choose.
This is a character-led story that has depth and drew me in from the beginning. It is complex, and at times far-fetched, but again, this is something that I didn't mind, and it added to the feel of the story. A crime thriller, based firmly within a family, with secrets and a whole lot more. I would definitely recommend this one.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
What if the only way to stop a murder… is to confess to it? Sophie Hannah takes this chilling premise and spins it into a psychological puzzle that is as unsettling as it is addictive.
Jemma Stelling’s confession is impossible to ignore: she admits to a murderous obsession with Marianne Upton, detailing a plan to kill her in the exact way Marianne is later found dead. The twist? At the time of the murder, Jemma was already at the police station, calmly laying out her confession. The paradox is irresistible—could she be innocent, or has she orchestrated the perfect crime with unnerving precision?
Hannah’s storytelling thrives on this tension. The novel is less about gore and more about the slippery boundaries between obsession, guilt, and truth. Every chapter feels like a trapdoor, pulling the reader deeper into a maze of psychological suspense. Her prose is sharp yet fluid, and the pacing ensures you’re always one step behind, questioning everything you thought you knew.
What lingers most is the atmosphere: claustrophobic, intimate, and tinged with unease. Jemma is a character you can’t quite trust, but can’t look away from either. Hannah’s gift lies in making the reader complicit—drawn into the confession, unsettled by the ambiguity, and desperate to know whether Jemma is victim or villain.
The Opposite of Murder is an ingenious thriller that asks whether truth can ever be untangled from obsession. Elegant, eerie, and impossible to put down, it’s a masterclass in psychological suspense.
With thanks to Sophie Hannah, the publisher and netgalley for the ARC
Jemma Stelling’s confession is impossible to ignore: she admits to a murderous obsession with Marianne Upton, detailing a plan to kill her in the exact way Marianne is later found dead. The twist? At the time of the murder, Jemma was already at the police station, calmly laying out her confession. The paradox is irresistible—could she be innocent, or has she orchestrated the perfect crime with unnerving precision?
Hannah’s storytelling thrives on this tension. The novel is less about gore and more about the slippery boundaries between obsession, guilt, and truth. Every chapter feels like a trapdoor, pulling the reader deeper into a maze of psychological suspense. Her prose is sharp yet fluid, and the pacing ensures you’re always one step behind, questioning everything you thought you knew.
What lingers most is the atmosphere: claustrophobic, intimate, and tinged with unease. Jemma is a character you can’t quite trust, but can’t look away from either. Hannah’s gift lies in making the reader complicit—drawn into the confession, unsettled by the ambiguity, and desperate to know whether Jemma is victim or villain.
The Opposite of Murder is an ingenious thriller that asks whether truth can ever be untangled from obsession. Elegant, eerie, and impossible to put down, it’s a masterclass in psychological suspense.
With thanks to Sophie Hannah, the publisher and netgalley for the ARC
December 5, 2025
'As I said to DC Brodigan, it was the opposite of murder.'
It's so much fun to be back in Hannah's Spilling/Culver Valley series - the last book was in 2022 and much has happened since then. With a new and awful superintendent, the whole team is under pressure with the potential for them to be divided up, something that neither Simon nor Charlie are prepared to put up with. There are scenes that take place in their boss' office which are literally unbelievable, but they do fulfill those fantasies we all have of ditching diplomacy and work personalities and saying what we really think of those in charge!
The mystery isn't quite as 'impossible' as Hannah's usually are and I always find it a bit difficult when the murder victim around whose personality the book revolves is dead from the start so we never get to meet them in direct action. Nevertheless, there is some Christie-level tangled family stuff going on (Hannah's Poirot series seems to be definitely having an impact here), and some nice unravelling of clues from Simon.
The regular personalities might be dialled down a bit now: Sellers and Gibbs have (sadly!) matured and there is just one mention of Liv. Even Simon seems less left-field than usual. All the same, this is a fun and tangled case and it's always good to be back in the company of these characters.
Many thanks to Hodder & Stoughton for an ARC via NetGalley
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Jemma Stelling arrives at a police station confessing to the murder of Marianne, however she couldn’t have committed the crime. She has a solid alibi, she was at the station when the murder happened. Can you be guilty of the opposite of murder?
I saw this book’s description a while ago and have been eager to read, as I found the concept really original and compelling. Although I enjoyed the premise, the execution unfortunately fell flat for me. I found the writing disjointed and confusing, with the plot feeling convoluted, which made the book feel dragged out and slow paced. I struggled to connect to the story because of this, however carried on to see if there were any surprises, but it turned out it didn’t really go anywhere.
I feel like the overall story lacked the suspense needed to keep me interested, however I did get some Agatha Christie vibes from this book and already I seem to be in the minority, so even though it didn’t make sense to me, I can see others getting a lot from this. I have to also say that this hasn’t put off reading more books by this author, as there have been others by her that I have loved and given 5 stars to - this one just wasn’t for me. 2.5 stars rounded down. Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this copy in return for an honest review.
I saw this book’s description a while ago and have been eager to read, as I found the concept really original and compelling. Although I enjoyed the premise, the execution unfortunately fell flat for me. I found the writing disjointed and confusing, with the plot feeling convoluted, which made the book feel dragged out and slow paced. I struggled to connect to the story because of this, however carried on to see if there were any surprises, but it turned out it didn’t really go anywhere.
I feel like the overall story lacked the suspense needed to keep me interested, however I did get some Agatha Christie vibes from this book and already I seem to be in the minority, so even though it didn’t make sense to me, I can see others getting a lot from this. I have to also say that this hasn’t put off reading more books by this author, as there have been others by her that I have loved and given 5 stars to - this one just wasn’t for me. 2.5 stars rounded down. Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this copy in return for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I have read a few Sophies Hannah previous novels, so I was looking forward to reading the Opposite of murder which I found quite unique and intriguing.
Jemma Stelling goes to the Police station and confesses that she has the urge to kill Marianne Upton. She is the lead suspect until while she is at the Police Station, someone kills her. So, it cannot have been her. As the Police questions her, secrets are revealed and reason why someone would kill Marianne.
I thank you for the published for a copy of Sophie Hannah latest work. I had high hopes for this one and the premise of the story I thought was promising. But then I thought the storyline was a bit all over the place and went way off track in the main objective of the storyline. Which left me keep getting confused in what was going on. Because of this I stared losing interest. This wasn’t really for me. 2.5 stars from me.
Jemma Stelling goes to the Police station and confesses that she has the urge to kill Marianne Upton. She is the lead suspect until while she is at the Police Station, someone kills her. So, it cannot have been her. As the Police questions her, secrets are revealed and reason why someone would kill Marianne.
I thank you for the published for a copy of Sophie Hannah latest work. I had high hopes for this one and the premise of the story I thought was promising. But then I thought the storyline was a bit all over the place and went way off track in the main objective of the storyline. Which left me keep getting confused in what was going on. Because of this I stared losing interest. This wasn’t really for me. 2.5 stars from me.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
In The Opposite of Murder Sophie Hannah has given us another fantastically twisted, cleverly plotted book which kept me guessing right up until the very last chapter. I was a little bit apprehensive initially as it has been quite a while since the last Waterhouse and Zailler story. However this didn't matter much. Awareness of their strange relationship and Simon's peculiarities added to the storyline. But not having come across them before would not detract from enjoyment of the book in my opinion. A brilliant if convoluted story recommended for lovers of intelligent crime fiction.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read an advance copy. All opinions are my own.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read an advance copy. All opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
The premise of The Opposite of Murder really drew me in. The idea of someone confessing to a murder they couldn’t possibly have committed is intriguing and full of potential.
Sadly, the story itself didn’t live up to that strong beginning. The plot quickly became a confusing mishmash, and I can’t remember being this baffled by a book before. It was long-winded throughout, with the story twisting rather than building tension. Instead of clarity, each chapter added more confusion, making it a frustrating read. Sophie Hannah has even questioned in the acknowledgments whether after a year she’d written a story that made no sense, and unfortunately, I’d have to agree. This is particularly disappointing given how much stronger and more enjoyable her earlier books have been.
Sadly, the story itself didn’t live up to that strong beginning. The plot quickly became a confusing mishmash, and I can’t remember being this baffled by a book before. It was long-winded throughout, with the story twisting rather than building tension. Instead of clarity, each chapter added more confusion, making it a frustrating read. Sophie Hannah has even questioned in the acknowledgments whether after a year she’d written a story that made no sense, and unfortunately, I’d have to agree. This is particularly disappointing given how much stronger and more enjoyable her earlier books have been.
December 17, 2025
I really liked the description of this book ‘ What if the only way you could prevent a murder was by confessing to it?’ however I am sorry to say that it didn’t live up to my expectations, I’m just really confused by the whole thing, it was jumping all over the place, nothing made sense however I kept going just because I wanted to know what the mystery was around Mariannes room and how Ollie tied into it…. Which transpired to be nothing exciting or thrilling! In all honesty it was a fairly dragged out short story.
I appreciate the opportunity to have received a digital ARC however this wasn’t for me I’m afraid.
I appreciate the opportunity to have received a digital ARC however this wasn’t for me I’m afraid.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Jemma Stelling arrives at Spilling Police station ready to confess that she had a plan to murder her stepmother, but has chickened out.
Charlie is the first police officer she meets, but insists she wants a detective. When Simon eventually shows up he dismisses Jemma's claims and tells her to just go and murder her stepmother if she wants.
When reports come in later that her stepmother has been murdered at the time she was at the police station, Simon's weird and wonderful brain starts to make connections.
However due to internal politics at the station, Simon isn't working with his team but more against them as a kind of protest.
A nice classy whodunnit.
Charlie is the first police officer she meets, but insists she wants a detective. When Simon eventually shows up he dismisses Jemma's claims and tells her to just go and murder her stepmother if she wants.
When reports come in later that her stepmother has been murdered at the time she was at the police station, Simon's weird and wonderful brain starts to make connections.
However due to internal politics at the station, Simon isn't working with his team but more against them as a kind of protest.
A nice classy whodunnit.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thank you to Netgalley for the opportunity to read this book. 3.5 stars. The book begins with Jemma Stelling walking into her local police station and confessing to the murder of her step-mother Marianne – but at this point Marianne is still alive. Jemma hates her and is trying to stop herself from committing murder. But at that very moment Marianne is actually killed. Interesting storyline. The Police unit tasked with solving the crime are about to be disbanded and are not working well together as a team, can they re-establish themselves and work this out? Why has Jemma never got along with Marianne? Can you be guilty of the opposite of murder?
Read
December 2, 2025It took me a little while to get into this novel but once I did I enjoyed it. It’s a gripping psychological thriller with plenty of. Is-direction. There’s plenty of twists and turns, which were sometimes confusing and I had to go back and re-read sections. But ultimately it’s a compelling and thought provoking novel with an intricate plot and complex characters that will keep you enthralled. Thank you to NetGalley, Hodder & Stoughton and the author for the chance to review.
December 8, 2025
This was a really twisty, pacy crime suspense that kept me wondering how I felt about each of the characters and the narrative of each perspective. It is one of those books you have to concentrate on with quite a few different characters and viewpoints as well as some parts set in different timelines but I think it works well overall and is certainly dark and eccentric.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
In the acknowledgements the author says ‘after I’d spent more than a year seriously wondering if I had accidentally produced something that made no sense …’. Well I’m really sorry, but this book makes absolutely no sense to me. Others seem to think it’s wonderful so I hope I’m in the minority and it does very well. Thanks to NetGalley and the publishers for the arc.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Jemma tries to confess to planning to murder her step mum, the only problem is whilst she is trying to get the police to take her seriously her step mum is murdered.
Looking back at the family history, the manipulations and family dynamics alongside the drama's in the police station.
I needed to concentrate to follow the plot line but I didn't guess the twists.
Looking back at the family history, the manipulations and family dynamics alongside the drama's in the police station.
I needed to concentrate to follow the plot line but I didn't guess the twists.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I would like to thank Net Galley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Deceived from the beginning - 3.5*
Trust nothing. Trust nobody. Don't even trust the words on the page. I was deceived and I fell for it. I rushed through the book as I was desperate to know what on earth actually happened. I absolutely could not guess the ending.
I normally don't enjoy multiple POVs but the style of book meant this was absolutely essential. I did enjoy this but honestly wtf.
Deceived from the beginning - 3.5*
Trust nothing. Trust nobody. Don't even trust the words on the page. I was deceived and I fell for it. I rushed through the book as I was desperate to know what on earth actually happened. I absolutely could not guess the ending.
I normally don't enjoy multiple POVs but the style of book meant this was absolutely essential. I did enjoy this but honestly wtf.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
An absolutely fabulous read, keeping me gripped from the first word to the last. I loved Sophie's writing style and highly recommend this book. I was lucky enough to receive an advance copy and leave this review willingly.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I enjoyed this one but, it started off a little strange and I wasn't sure about the way it was written. Once I got into it I enjoyed it. My thanks to netgalley and the publisher's for giving me the opportunity to read this book in return for an honest review.
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