What do you think?
Rate this book
A Murder is Going Down
A brilliant and hilarious cosy YA crime from the author of My Family and Other Suspects, with a mystery that will keep readers guessing to the very last page. For fans of Karen McManus and Holly Jackson.
This is what happens when you put a pair of unemployed teenagers in charge of a sudden death investigation. What we lack in investigative skills we make up for in free time.
Heidi's meant to be having the time of her life on exchange in Switzerland, but instead she's cold, alone and on an involuntary dairy-free diet. So when she hears the news of her brother Felix's death, she jumps on the first plane home to Perth.
To be completely honest, Felix wasn't that much of a brother, so Heidi's not crying buckets – but she's not exactly happy either. Thanks to an epic betrayal by her (ex) best friend and (ex) boyfriend, Heidi has absolutely nothing to do and no one to talk to. That's until Patrick, the wisecracking younger brother of Felix's widow, convinces her that they need to investigate her brother's mysterious death.
Will Heidi and Patrick get to the bottom of Felix's death – and do they really want to?
This is what happens when you put a pair of unemployed teenagers in charge of a sudden death investigation. What we lack in investigative skills we make up for in free time.
Heidi's meant to be having the time of her life on exchange in Switzerland, but instead she's cold, alone and on an involuntary dairy-free diet. So when she hears the news of her brother Felix's death, she jumps on the first plane home to Perth.
To be completely honest, Felix wasn't that much of a brother, so Heidi's not crying buckets – but she's not exactly happy either. Thanks to an epic betrayal by her (ex) best friend and (ex) boyfriend, Heidi has absolutely nothing to do and no one to talk to. That's until Patrick, the wisecracking younger brother of Felix's widow, convinces her that they need to investigate her brother's mysterious death.
Will Heidi and Patrick get to the bottom of Felix's death – and do they really want to?
Audible Audio
Published January 1, 2026
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 103 reviews
September 17, 2026
When Heidi finds out that her brother has been murdered, she has to come back to Perth from her exchange program in Switzerland, which she isn't bummed about because Switzerland wasn't shaping up to be all that amazing. Heidi gets roped into investigating Felix's murder by Patrick, who happens to be her sister-in-law's brother. But since it's the school holidays and Heidi has nothing else to do, she gives in.
When I read the blurb, I was immediately sold as I had been looking for a cosy read. This is my first read by Kate Emery and this started off really strong with the perfect blend of mystery and humour.
The first third of the book was especially funny. I was laughing so hard that I had tears in my eyes. It gets a bit slow after that but still not bad. The mystery could have been better no doubt, but it was fun solving it and I had solved it very early on.
I loved Heidi and Patrick. It also had some other amusing characters but Aunty Sam was my favourite. I loved her eccentricity. I enjoyed the interaction between different characters and the investigation process.
There was an error I noticed where Elena was referred as Eliza in a couple of places. Something that left me confused was
Overall, this was an enjoyable read.
3 stars
When I read the blurb, I was immediately sold as I had been looking for a cosy read. This is my first read by Kate Emery and this started off really strong with the perfect blend of mystery and humour.
The first third of the book was especially funny. I was laughing so hard that I had tears in my eyes. It gets a bit slow after that but still not bad. The mystery could have been better no doubt, but it was fun solving it and I had solved it very early on.
I loved Heidi and Patrick. It also had some other amusing characters but Aunty Sam was my favourite. I loved her eccentricity. I enjoyed the interaction between different characters and the investigation process.
There was an error I noticed where Elena was referred as Eliza in a couple of places. Something that left me confused was
Overall, this was an enjoyable read.
3 stars
January 6, 2026
such a well executed book omg
May 19, 2026
Clever. Quirky. Cosy.
November 9, 2025
This was a fun book to read. It’s a fast paced, cosy YA crime/mystery that can be enjoyed in one sitting. Set in Perth, Australia the story follows Heidi and her friends who work together to discover how her older brother Felix died.
It’s an easy story to follow and it was fun gathering the clues and spotting the mistakes that some of the characters made throughout the story. My detective skills went into gear and I managed to piece together what truly happened to Felix. The author was great at leaving a trail a breadcrumbs and i loved it when my theory was correct.
I love the concept of 4 teenagers trying to solve a murder and it was interesting to see how they interpreted the pieces of information that they had gathered. Their interview process may not have been cleverly orchestrated but in all fairness they were only 15-16 years old and were doing what they could with very limited resources.
If you’re looking for a palette cleanser and love a cosy mystery then this book is for you.
It’s an easy story to follow and it was fun gathering the clues and spotting the mistakes that some of the characters made throughout the story. My detective skills went into gear and I managed to piece together what truly happened to Felix. The author was great at leaving a trail a breadcrumbs and i loved it when my theory was correct.
I love the concept of 4 teenagers trying to solve a murder and it was interesting to see how they interpreted the pieces of information that they had gathered. Their interview process may not have been cleverly orchestrated but in all fairness they were only 15-16 years old and were doing what they could with very limited resources.
If you’re looking for a palette cleanser and love a cosy mystery then this book is for you.
November 27, 2025
My Veronica Mars loving ass absolutely. Ate. This. Up.
I liked the duel timeline double mystery element (though I’m still a bit confused whhhhy exactly they chose to do what they did with the lift aspect, seems risky).
Such a fun read. I had zero expectations for this one so I’m really glad I had a good time with it.
3.5 stars
I liked the duel timeline double mystery element (though I’m still a bit confused whhhhy exactly they chose to do what they did with the lift aspect, seems risky).
Such a fun read. I had zero expectations for this one so I’m really glad I had a good time with it.
3.5 stars
January 7, 2026
4.5 stars.
When Heidi hears the news of her brother Felix's death, she's quick to jump on the first plane home to Perth. To be completely honest, Felix wasn't that much of a brother, so Heidi's not that sad – but she's not exactly happy either. Thanks to an epic betrayal by her (ex) best friend and (ex) boyfriend, Heidi has absolutely nothing to do and no one to talk to. No one, that is, except Patrick, the wisecracking younger brother of Felix's widow, who convinces her that they need to investigate her brother's mysterious demise.
Just like Kate Emery’s previous book, this was so much fun! It was again full of interesting characters, sassy dialogues and twisty subplots. The dual scenes between the elevator and the murder mystery were done so well, I couldn’t stop turning the pages. The story inside the story worked really well in transitioning between events.
I really liked Heidi and her interactions with Patrick. I suspected everyone! So it was so much fun to see all the red herrings and misdirections - I really couldn’t guess where it was going. Did I guess the whodunnit? Nope. And I didn’t even guess the motivation. But everything nicely converged into a great conclusion, and I was thoroughly entertained by the end of it. Looking forward to Kate’s next book!
(Thanks to Allen & Unwin for a gifted review copy)
See my bookstagram review.
When Heidi hears the news of her brother Felix's death, she's quick to jump on the first plane home to Perth. To be completely honest, Felix wasn't that much of a brother, so Heidi's not that sad – but she's not exactly happy either. Thanks to an epic betrayal by her (ex) best friend and (ex) boyfriend, Heidi has absolutely nothing to do and no one to talk to. No one, that is, except Patrick, the wisecracking younger brother of Felix's widow, who convinces her that they need to investigate her brother's mysterious demise.
Just like Kate Emery’s previous book, this was so much fun! It was again full of interesting characters, sassy dialogues and twisty subplots. The dual scenes between the elevator and the murder mystery were done so well, I couldn’t stop turning the pages. The story inside the story worked really well in transitioning between events.
I really liked Heidi and her interactions with Patrick. I suspected everyone! So it was so much fun to see all the red herrings and misdirections - I really couldn’t guess where it was going. Did I guess the whodunnit? Nope. And I didn’t even guess the motivation. But everything nicely converged into a great conclusion, and I was thoroughly entertained by the end of it. Looking forward to Kate’s next book!
(Thanks to Allen & Unwin for a gifted review copy)
See my bookstagram review.
February 7, 2026
"Aunty Sam could never handle the logistics of getting away wth murder. She's not a planner."
There are things I like about this, but others I didn't.
My main problem was with the motive and an incident that happened in (real) Mosman Park while I was reading, but I'll put it under a spoiler
I found this at the 2nd hand bookshop 2mths after it was published. Did someone else have the same problem? It had a bookshop price label so it wasn't a review copy, and now it's going back
February 22, 2026
4.5 stars
This book was so crazy. I really thought that I had spoiled it for myself. BUT I DID NOT. yayayaya. OMG U know what people like Felix don't deserve to be in this world honestly. He was better off in the Ned. I feel so bad for you know who. But this is book what so crazy at the end. I loved it so much. the only reason I put it at 4.5 stars is because I was kinda constantly thinking OMG I ruined this for myself but besides that it was just so good.
This book was so crazy. I really thought that I had spoiled it for myself. BUT I DID NOT. yayayaya. OMG U know what people like Felix don't deserve to be in this world honestly. He was better off in the Ned. I feel so bad for you know who. But this is book what so crazy at the end. I loved it so much. the only reason I put it at 4.5 stars is because I was kinda constantly thinking OMG I ruined this for myself but besides that it was just so good.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you Net Galley for sending me this ARC in exchange for a review.
WHAT A FUN READ! I had a blast and binged this book in a day! The plot twists got me and I was pretty off with my predications. Going back and forth from the past to the present was such a fun idea and i was HOOKED immediately. I will definitely be reading more of Kate Emery's works in the future.
WHAT A FUN READ! I had a blast and binged this book in a day! The plot twists got me and I was pretty off with my predications. Going back and forth from the past to the present was such a fun idea and i was HOOKED immediately. I will definitely be reading more of Kate Emery's works in the future.
October 10, 2026
I received a free copy of, A Murder Is Going Down, by Kate Emery, from the publisher and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. Heidi's brother Felix is dead, though they weren't close, she did not want him dead. Heidi is going to try and solve her brothers murder. This book goes back and forth between now and then, I prefer a straight trajectory read. This was an interesting read.
February 28, 2026
This was a fun and fast paced YA mystery set in Perth, and it was so, so funny. The tone felt a little younger at times even though I believe it is aimed at 16-18 year olds so that may have affected my reading experience at times but regardless it kept me on my toes until the end (I'm bad at whodunnits). In the present Heidi is stuck in an elevator with a woman who she tells the story of her adventures through flashbacks, so you learn more and more about who she is as we go along. I thoroughly enjoyed the Some Like It Hot and Rear Window references thrown in. I even giggled at the pot shots at Melbourne 🙄
3.5 ⭐
Thank you to Allen & Unwin for the early copy & adorable PR package. A Murder is Going Down is out now
3.5 ⭐
Thank you to Allen & Unwin for the early copy & adorable PR package. A Murder is Going Down is out now
November 26, 2025
This was so fun! The twists kept on twisting and it was fast paced, engaging and mysterious, whilst also being a super lighthearted YA murder mystery read.
Perfect for fans of A Good Girls Guide to Murder!
I do wish the ending was fleshed out a tiny bit more, but definitely worth the read!!
Perfect for fans of A Good Girls Guide to Murder!
I do wish the ending was fleshed out a tiny bit more, but definitely worth the read!!
Read
December 14, 2025Want to see more...
Bookstagram
Thank you Allen & Unwin for this book in exchange for an honest review
A Murder Is Going Down is the kinda of book you want toad to your TBR if unpredictable yet edge of your seat plot, humour, twists, secrets, and YA crime energy! You’ll get to meet Heidi, a teenager on exchange in Switzerland gets derailed when she hears that her brother Felix has died, apparently a suicide. But when things don’t add up, Heidi and Patrick decide to dig deeper into Felix’s passing. Their amateur detective skills kicks off a wild investigation that you will love!
What makes this book a standout is the snarky banter, teenage angst, and that classic “we’ll outsmart the police” vibe which is all set against the backdrop of a suburban Australian town. The story flips between past and present, keeping you guessing to the very end. If you love mysteries with teenage detectives, betrayal, and enough clues to play armchair detective, this one’s a total win.
Overall, A Murder Is Going Down is cosy-crime fun for YA readers, perfect for when you crave mystery, drama, and a little bit of teenage sass.
Bookstagram
Thank you Allen & Unwin for this book in exchange for an honest review
A Murder Is Going Down is the kinda of book you want toad to your TBR if unpredictable yet edge of your seat plot, humour, twists, secrets, and YA crime energy! You’ll get to meet Heidi, a teenager on exchange in Switzerland gets derailed when she hears that her brother Felix has died, apparently a suicide. But when things don’t add up, Heidi and Patrick decide to dig deeper into Felix’s passing. Their amateur detective skills kicks off a wild investigation that you will love!
What makes this book a standout is the snarky banter, teenage angst, and that classic “we’ll outsmart the police” vibe which is all set against the backdrop of a suburban Australian town. The story flips between past and present, keeping you guessing to the very end. If you love mysteries with teenage detectives, betrayal, and enough clues to play armchair detective, this one’s a total win.
Overall, A Murder Is Going Down is cosy-crime fun for YA readers, perfect for when you crave mystery, drama, and a little bit of teenage sass.
December 23, 2025
Did I tell you how much I adored ‘My family and other suspects’? Longlisted for CBCA 2025 Older Readers, I gobbled that book up and gave to heaps of people to read after - occupational hazard.
So, when this book came along, I couldn’t buy it fast enough.
Both books are suggested for readers ‘12-16 years old’ on the publisher’s website. I work with 5-13year olds, and expected more of the same.
The covers, being predominately red, look similar also. But, after reading closely, this second title really is more YA Fiction/high school (+13 years old). There’s a mild bit of swearing, but it was the sexual content that nudges it up to older readers.
But, the concept, the characters, the twists and the banter were great fun. I would definitely recommend this book to all fans of cosy-murder-YACrime-mystery.
The setting being unashamedly West Australian was delightful too.
Kate Emery has been a new discovery for me as a reader in 2025, and I’m a firm fan now. 4.5 stars
So, when this book came along, I couldn’t buy it fast enough.
Both books are suggested for readers ‘12-16 years old’ on the publisher’s website. I work with 5-13year olds, and expected more of the same.
The covers, being predominately red, look similar also. But, after reading closely, this second title really is more YA Fiction/high school (+13 years old). There’s a mild bit of swearing, but it was the sexual content that nudges it up to older readers.
But, the concept, the characters, the twists and the banter were great fun. I would definitely recommend this book to all fans of cosy-murder-YACrime-mystery.
The setting being unashamedly West Australian was delightful too.
Kate Emery has been a new discovery for me as a reader in 2025, and I’m a firm fan now. 4.5 stars
October 26, 2025
ARC review: A Murder Is Going Down by @kemery82 and published by @allenandunwin
Release date: 4 November 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
“This is what happens when you put a pair of unemployed teenagers in charge of a murder investigation. What we lack in investigative skills, we make up for in free time.”
Well this book grabbed me right from the first chapter (no one wants to be trapped in an elevator!). This story is told over dual timelines by our narrator Heidi who has returned home to Perth after the unexpected, and possibly suspicious, death of her brother Felix. Along with her sister-in-law’s younger brother Patrick, Heidi sets out to uncover the truth of what happened to Felix. Was it an accident or was it something more sinister?
I highly recommend this book to those who love YA mysteries and a fast paced read.
Release date: 4 November 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
“This is what happens when you put a pair of unemployed teenagers in charge of a murder investigation. What we lack in investigative skills, we make up for in free time.”
Well this book grabbed me right from the first chapter (no one wants to be trapped in an elevator!). This story is told over dual timelines by our narrator Heidi who has returned home to Perth after the unexpected, and possibly suspicious, death of her brother Felix. Along with her sister-in-law’s younger brother Patrick, Heidi sets out to uncover the truth of what happened to Felix. Was it an accident or was it something more sinister?
I highly recommend this book to those who love YA mysteries and a fast paced read.
August 16, 2026
Heidi’s brother was a terrible person, but she still wants to know how he died. The police have rules it suicide but the facts aren’t adding up. Heidi’s home in Australia after a disaster puts study abroad trip. She not talking to her ex-best friend or her ex-boyfriend, so when her sister-in-law’s teen brother Patrick wants them to investigate her brother’s death, she’s here for it.
Patrick and Heidi have their work cut out for them, and someone Heidi’s exes end up in the mix. Few people are telling the whole truth, and the only things Heidi is certain of is that her brother was cruel to his wife just like he was to Heidi.
This cozy mystery has some unexpected twists, friendship drama, laughs, justice and found family. Loved it! Now I’m off to find more by this author.
Thanks to NetGalley for an early copy.
Patrick and Heidi have their work cut out for them, and someone Heidi’s exes end up in the mix. Few people are telling the whole truth, and the only things Heidi is certain of is that her brother was cruel to his wife just like he was to Heidi.
This cozy mystery has some unexpected twists, friendship drama, laughs, justice and found family. Loved it! Now I’m off to find more by this author.
Thanks to NetGalley for an early copy.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This was a pretty cute YA cozy mystery that I think young people ages 15-19 will enjoy. It takes place in Australia, which was a nice change for me, and follows Heidi and Patrick as they investigate the murder of Heidi’s brother (and Patrick’s brother in law), Felix. There is a dual time line which helps to add some interest as well as former friendships, broken hearts and characters being trapped in elevators.
As an adult reader I found this to be fairly interesting up until the 50-60% where it then started to drag. However I feel that the pace will still be enough to engage younger readers.
Thank you to NetGalley and Random House Children’s Books for the opportunity to read this ebook ARC!
As an adult reader I found this to be fairly interesting up until the 50-60% where it then started to drag. However I feel that the pace will still be enough to engage younger readers.
Thank you to NetGalley and Random House Children’s Books for the opportunity to read this ebook ARC!
January 6, 2026
Loved the story and the format of narration. Books that go back and forth in time can get tiring, but I loved the storyteller setup for this and the way the plot played out. Heidi was so entertaining as a narrator, even if she wasn't like any 15-year-old Ive ever met before.
The references to pop-culture usually feel out of place, but this was so naturally done that I didn't even mind agreeing with their takes on things. And it has to be said, who doesn't know Hardy Boys? Nancy Drew? Lil' miss detective, you're breaking my heart.
There were some parts that felt a teensy bit repetitive towards the end, when all of it becomes obvious but you have to wait another 30 pages for them to confess to everything. Their motivations for going through all this trouble to bring this story too the world are also a little unconvincing, but maybe that's just me nitpicking.
The references to pop-culture usually feel out of place, but this was so naturally done that I didn't even mind agreeing with their takes on things. And it has to be said, who doesn't know Hardy Boys? Nancy Drew? Lil' miss detective, you're breaking my heart.
There were some parts that felt a teensy bit repetitive towards the end, when all of it becomes obvious but you have to wait another 30 pages for them to confess to everything. Their motivations for going through all this trouble to bring this story too the world are also a little unconvincing, but maybe that's just me nitpicking.
October 10, 2026
A MURDER IS GOING DOWN is a fun, voice-y YA murder mystery that kept me reading and smiling. It's upbeat, humorous, and engrossing. The characters are likable, the format is unique, and the story is quick-moving and engaging. Sure, it's a tad predictable, but that didn't matter. I greatly enjoyed the book. It made a long plane flight much more pleasurable!
If this were a movie, it would be rated: PG-13 for language (no F-bombs) and violence
If this were a movie, it would be rated: PG-13 for language (no F-bombs) and violence
December 23, 2025
This was honestly so fun. I loved this claustrophobic thriller haha. The narration and flicking between then and now was so well done. I just wish the ending was a bit more fleshed tbh but otherwise, such an entertaining story!
September 3, 2025
Well, that was fun. But also clever. And satisfying.
(I only have a few questions)
(I only have a few questions)
July 26, 2026
i didn’t enjoy this book like i thought i was going to, to be honest. it was a bit slow. we got a new revelation or clue every once in a while and even now, we read a half-lie. i would have liked to know what details were changed into the story, you know? i didn’t read all of that just to be left in the dark.
also, Felix being a horrible person didn’t justify the murder. i understand they all hated him but i feel like it wasn’t pressed and emphasised enough that this guy was literally murdered horribly. my guy was hit with a rock to the head, pushed of a cliff, drowned and was left for over an hour..(maybe i’m being too empathetic, idk) it was spoken and written like it’s a light subject.
I know Heidi mentioned it too—that the siblings were speaking so casually about it— but still.
also, Felix being a horrible person didn’t justify the murder. i understand they all hated him but i feel like it wasn’t pressed and emphasised enough that this guy was literally murdered horribly. my guy was hit with a rock to the head, pushed of a cliff, drowned and was left for over an hour..(maybe i’m being too empathetic, idk) it was spoken and written like it’s a light subject.
I know Heidi mentioned it too—that the siblings were speaking so casually about it— but still.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 19, 2026
3* book, 2.5* ending
December 12, 2025
absolutely love the train of thought writing style
and obviously i love almost anyone named patrick so that was ideal
and obviously i love almost anyone named patrick so that was ideal
September 10, 2026
This is a cozy mystery about Heidi, who explains the story of how her brother died to a lady in an elevator when they are unexpectedly stuck between floors.
I can't say I particularly loved this book, but I didn't hate everything about it either.
The first half of the book dragged for me. I didn't find anything about the book engaging and honestly only kept reading it so that I could write a review of it.
In the end, I admit I quite enjoyed the plot twists and ending. While I struggled to get through most of the book, I'm giving 3 stars instead of two because of the second half of the book.
I thought the plot twist and information revealed in the second half were very gripping, and I wanted to know what happened next.
I was not a fan of the worldbuilding. There wasn't enough of it. I really struggled to visualize the world (location) the story took place in.
When it came to characters, I initially wasn't a fan of Heidi. I struggled to find something I liked about her till about halfway through the book. She seemed like any normal person, if not a bit annoying. Or at least a lot of her thoughts (this being first person) really annoyed me. But that could just be me.
Most of the side characters were decently interesting.
While I didn't hate everything about the book, I can't say I'll ever recommend it.
For those who like content reviews...
CONTENT REVIEW
Language: Bl**dy h-word (2), H-word (10), A-word followed by hole (6), Bull s-word (5), S-word (17), D*ck (4), D*ckheads (1), Big a-word (1), Suck a-word (1), Jesus as a curse word (2), D*mm*t (5), Bl**dy (5), Half a-word (1), P-word (7), God as a curse word (1), Bad a-word (1), A-word (1), Dip s-word (2), D-word (1), Crappy
Few sexual comments or mentions of a sexual nature, but nothing too notable.
No graphic violence. Yes, it's about solving a guy's death, but nothing is ever described graphically, and there isn't any severe violence. It's all pretty minor.
Lots of talking about suicide.
Some mentions of alcohol or people being drunk.
Bisexual character. Lesbian couple. Gay couple.
I can't say I particularly loved this book, but I didn't hate everything about it either.
The first half of the book dragged for me. I didn't find anything about the book engaging and honestly only kept reading it so that I could write a review of it.
In the end, I admit I quite enjoyed the plot twists and ending. While I struggled to get through most of the book, I'm giving 3 stars instead of two because of the second half of the book.
I thought the plot twist and information revealed in the second half were very gripping, and I wanted to know what happened next.
I was not a fan of the worldbuilding. There wasn't enough of it. I really struggled to visualize the world (location) the story took place in.
When it came to characters, I initially wasn't a fan of Heidi. I struggled to find something I liked about her till about halfway through the book. She seemed like any normal person, if not a bit annoying. Or at least a lot of her thoughts (this being first person) really annoyed me. But that could just be me.
Most of the side characters were decently interesting.
While I didn't hate everything about the book, I can't say I'll ever recommend it.
For those who like content reviews...
CONTENT REVIEW
Language: Bl**dy h-word (2), H-word (10), A-word followed by hole (6), Bull s-word (5), S-word (17), D*ck (4), D*ckheads (1), Big a-word (1), Suck a-word (1), Jesus as a curse word (2), D*mm*t (5), Bl**dy (5), Half a-word (1), P-word (7), God as a curse word (1), Bad a-word (1), A-word (1), Dip s-word (2), D-word (1), Crappy
Few sexual comments or mentions of a sexual nature, but nothing too notable.
No graphic violence. Yes, it's about solving a guy's death, but nothing is ever described graphically, and there isn't any severe violence. It's all pretty minor.
Lots of talking about suicide.
Some mentions of alcohol or people being drunk.
Bisexual character. Lesbian couple. Gay couple.
January 25, 2026
phewff. this was such an interesting one. the premise is two characters get stuck in an elevator and one of them tells a story of a murder to try and pass the time but it is eventually revealed that their meeting in this space is not necessarily coincidence. Heidi (the storyteller) was a mixed bag for me. I had to keep remembering just how much trauma she had been through to counter the fact that she was often a dick (something she knew about herself too) and she was easier to like when around other people like Patrick and even Lilia. though I felt suspicious of the story simply with the names Heidi and Lilia because they felt too out of place. anyway, her character was also a bit inconsistent, coming across as mousier to begin with but then referring to herself as a 'snarky bitch' later on. her brother Felix (the victim) was also supposed to be hideously vile but this wasn't made clear until very close to the end and because he died before the book started there was no time spent with him so he felt very absent despite being the cause of everything.
it got exhausting towards the end reading all of Heidi's internal monologue and explanations and additions to the conversation and also made the pacing slow down which was at odds with the fact that Marianne was pushing for the end of the story but Heidi continually said 'we'll get there' and then took a long time about it. I liked the back and forth between then and now but sometimes the interruptions from the elevator felt clunky.
despite the shitty behaviour of Lilia and Ben I am glad there were some positive friendship moments because those felt the most natural and also enjoyable to read. I was initially a bit pissed off at the way the twist was going but by the end I realised how genius of a move it was by the characters. it was also very bizarre but fun to read about so many current pop culture references and as someone reading from auckland the banter between Perth and Melbourne cracked me up.
it got exhausting towards the end reading all of Heidi's internal monologue and explanations and additions to the conversation and also made the pacing slow down which was at odds with the fact that Marianne was pushing for the end of the story but Heidi continually said 'we'll get there' and then took a long time about it. I liked the back and forth between then and now but sometimes the interruptions from the elevator felt clunky.
despite the shitty behaviour of Lilia and Ben I am glad there were some positive friendship moments because those felt the most natural and also enjoyable to read. I was initially a bit pissed off at the way the twist was going but by the end I realised how genius of a move it was by the characters. it was also very bizarre but fun to read about so many current pop culture references and as someone reading from auckland the banter between Perth and Melbourne cracked me up.
January 28, 2026
A Murder Is Going Down by Kate Emery
Back in October, Allen & Unwin held a book scavenger hunt on Halloween. If you solved a location-based clue and managed to get to that location, an advanced copy of 'A Murder Is Going Down' by Kate Emery was waiting. I knew where one of the books was located based on the clue, but I was working from home and nowhere near the location. I posted my gripe on Allen & Unwin's Instagram page. Their response was to encourage me to work with someone else... it was then that I realised my son was working in the city, very near the clue location. I sent him a text, and he was off and running (in the rain), so I have to thank Allen & Unwin, Kate Emery, and my kid for this copy of the book.
While I don't usually read YA fiction, I do love a cosy crime, and this book is very cosy. The blurb says, "This is what happens when you put a pair of unemployed teenagers in charge of a murder investigation. What we lack in investigative skills, we make up for in free time." Although I'd argue that they are actually students during the school holiday, much like Veronica Mars.
Heidi is supposed to be on a student exchange in Switzerland with her best friend, but after her brother Felix's death, she jumps on the first plane back to Perth. Once back in Perth, she and her brothers widows brother (follow that red bouncy ball - wait a minute, her brothers' brother-in-law?) and her (ex) best friend and (ex) boyfriend, (reluctantly) join forces to investigate Felix's death.
This is very Veronica Mars or maybe an older Harriet the Spy, full of snarky teenagers, trash adults, and being stuck in a lift as a plot device. I'm giving the book a thumbs up, and I'll also have to find a teenager to gift it to.
#Thumbsup A Murder Is Going Down by Kate Emery is out now. If you have a kid who loves a cosy mystery, they'd like this one.
#allenandunwin, #kemery82 #booksdeevaareads #2026bookshelf
Back in October, Allen & Unwin held a book scavenger hunt on Halloween. If you solved a location-based clue and managed to get to that location, an advanced copy of 'A Murder Is Going Down' by Kate Emery was waiting. I knew where one of the books was located based on the clue, but I was working from home and nowhere near the location. I posted my gripe on Allen & Unwin's Instagram page. Their response was to encourage me to work with someone else... it was then that I realised my son was working in the city, very near the clue location. I sent him a text, and he was off and running (in the rain), so I have to thank Allen & Unwin, Kate Emery, and my kid for this copy of the book.
While I don't usually read YA fiction, I do love a cosy crime, and this book is very cosy. The blurb says, "This is what happens when you put a pair of unemployed teenagers in charge of a murder investigation. What we lack in investigative skills, we make up for in free time." Although I'd argue that they are actually students during the school holiday, much like Veronica Mars.
Heidi is supposed to be on a student exchange in Switzerland with her best friend, but after her brother Felix's death, she jumps on the first plane back to Perth. Once back in Perth, she and her brothers widows brother (follow that red bouncy ball - wait a minute, her brothers' brother-in-law?) and her (ex) best friend and (ex) boyfriend, (reluctantly) join forces to investigate Felix's death.
This is very Veronica Mars or maybe an older Harriet the Spy, full of snarky teenagers, trash adults, and being stuck in a lift as a plot device. I'm giving the book a thumbs up, and I'll also have to find a teenager to gift it to.
#Thumbsup A Murder Is Going Down by Kate Emery is out now. If you have a kid who loves a cosy mystery, they'd like this one.
#allenandunwin, #kemery82 #booksdeevaareads #2026bookshelf
January 9, 2026
Okay, first things first. A Murder Is Going Down has such a fun cover! Bright, playful, and instantly gives you those YA murder mystery vibes. Honestly, it makes you want to pick it up before you even know what it’s about. 😍
I went in expecting a fun mystery, and this being a YA read, it totally delivered. The writing is super fun, engaging, and clever, and it really pulls you in from the first chapter. You feel like the book is having a good time with you while you’re reading it.
One of my favourite things? The dual past and present timeline. Every switch gives you new clues, new perspectives, and makes you rethink everything you thought you knew. It’s so satisfying when the pieces start to come together.
And the characters… wow. You love who you’re meant to love and hate who you’re meant to hate, which makes reading this such a joy. They’re witty, messy, and just so fun to follow their personalities really bring the story to life.
Plus, that little touch of teenage romance is so sweet! It makes you smile, adds depth to the characters, and the best part? It doesn’t take away from the mystery at all. The balance between the romance, humor, and suspense is perfect. 💖
The plot is clever and engaging, full of twists that kept me guessing and made it impossible to put down. If you love YA murder mysteries with smart writing, dual timelines, fun characters, and just a hint of romance, this one should 100% be on your TBR.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Have you read it yet, or is this going straight onto your list? 👀📚
I went in expecting a fun mystery, and this being a YA read, it totally delivered. The writing is super fun, engaging, and clever, and it really pulls you in from the first chapter. You feel like the book is having a good time with you while you’re reading it.
One of my favourite things? The dual past and present timeline. Every switch gives you new clues, new perspectives, and makes you rethink everything you thought you knew. It’s so satisfying when the pieces start to come together.
And the characters… wow. You love who you’re meant to love and hate who you’re meant to hate, which makes reading this such a joy. They’re witty, messy, and just so fun to follow their personalities really bring the story to life.
Plus, that little touch of teenage romance is so sweet! It makes you smile, adds depth to the characters, and the best part? It doesn’t take away from the mystery at all. The balance between the romance, humor, and suspense is perfect. 💖
The plot is clever and engaging, full of twists that kept me guessing and made it impossible to put down. If you love YA murder mysteries with smart writing, dual timelines, fun characters, and just a hint of romance, this one should 100% be on your TBR.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Have you read it yet, or is this going straight onto your list? 👀📚
Read
November 16, 2025First of all, thank you to A&U for my beautiful ARC and PR box! It's always an honour to read from A&U, and in particular one of my favourite authors, Kate Emery.
This Perth-based murder mystery deals with a dual timeline - two fun mysteries to figure out - and with young protagonists deals with themes of family and loss (especially when that loss doesn't really feel like a loss).
Kate's writing always draws me in. She's SO funny, and her books have a wonderful fast pace and cast of characters to fall in love with. I was laughing so hard I had to hold on tight not to fall off the edge of my seat. Towards the end, I was fighting sleep because I didn't want to put the book down and go to bed. The reveals were a little predictable but I liked how they rang true with the themes of the book.
I really loved this, which is why it's a shame that my experience was brought down by there being a couple of H*rry P*tter references. It's 2025, we all know what JKR is doing, and I don't think it's ever appropriate to call back to her work and (even indirectly) encourage others to read it. For that reason, I've left off a star rating, as I'm unsure how I feel about recommending this book as much as I for the most part enjoyed it.
This book definitely fits in the younger YA range, suitable for readers coming out of MG and wanting something a bit more gritty and mature, but nothing too complex. I'll look forward to reading Kate's future works!
This Perth-based murder mystery deals with a dual timeline - two fun mysteries to figure out - and with young protagonists deals with themes of family and loss (especially when that loss doesn't really feel like a loss).
Kate's writing always draws me in. She's SO funny, and her books have a wonderful fast pace and cast of characters to fall in love with. I was laughing so hard I had to hold on tight not to fall off the edge of my seat. Towards the end, I was fighting sleep because I didn't want to put the book down and go to bed. The reveals were a little predictable but I liked how they rang true with the themes of the book.
I really loved this, which is why it's a shame that my experience was brought down by there being a couple of H*rry P*tter references. It's 2025, we all know what JKR is doing, and I don't think it's ever appropriate to call back to her work and (even indirectly) encourage others to read it. For that reason, I've left off a star rating, as I'm unsure how I feel about recommending this book as much as I for the most part enjoyed it.
This book definitely fits in the younger YA range, suitable for readers coming out of MG and wanting something a bit more gritty and mature, but nothing too complex. I'll look forward to reading Kate's future works!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 103 reviews