What can I say about An Act of Murder other than this—what an absolute delight of a read! Tom Eaton has crafted a cosy, comedic crime novel that’s equal parts mystery, laughter, and heart. By the time I reached the end, I felt sad that the story was over, but thrilled to know Arnold Prinsloo had sleuthed his way into my heart.
Plot Summary
Arnold Prinsloo is not having the best time. His acting career has crumbled, his relationship with Zelda (the love of his life) is in tatters, and his landlord is inches away from throwing him out of his Melville cottage. But things take a darker turn when Arnold is accused of murdering billionaire JP Mulder after partygoers see him looming over the victim’s body, weapon in hand.
With the detective on the case recovering from surgery, Arnold has just one week to prove his innocence. And what does he do? He assumes the greatest role of his career—a hard-boiled East Rand detective named Superintendent Fergus Ryan. Arnold sets out to uncover the truth, navigating suspects, clues, and chaos while trying to win back Zelda and keep his head above water.
Themes
- The Quest for Redemption: Arnold’s journey is not just about proving his innocence—it’s a chance for him to reclaim his dignity and step out of his self-pity.
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Friendship and Loyalty: With the help of his landlord, JP’s head of security, and other colourful characters, Arnold learns the true value of camaraderie and support.
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Comedy in Crisis: Eaton skilfully balances tension with humour, reminding readers that even in dire circumstances, a good laugh can make things bearable.
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Identity and Reinvention: Arnold’s transformation into “Superintendent Fergus Ryan” allows for hilarious escapades but also reflects his deeper need to reinvent himself.
What Worked For Me
- Witty Writing: Eaton’s sharp, laugh-out-loud humour had me snorting into my tea more times than I care to admit. His turn of phrase and knack for comedic timing are brilliant.
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Quirky Characters: Arnold is a deeply relatable protagonist who dreams of being the hero in his own life but keeps sidelining himself until circumstances demand otherwise. The supporting cast—Zelda, Daniel, Carmen, and many others—are equally memorable, bringing charm and chaos to the story.
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Engaging Plot: The twists and turns kept me hooked, and while I didn’t always guess the “whodunnit,” it was so much fun following Arnold as he pieced it all together.
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Unlikely Hero: Arnold’s underdog arc is incredibly satisfying to watch, with his hapless nature often turning into surprising resourcefulness.
Who Will Enjoy This Book?
If you love character-driven stories packed with wit, humour, and heart, this book is for you. Fans of cosy crime, laugh-out-loud mysteries, and endearing underdog protagonists will thoroughly enjoy An Act of Murder. It’s the kind of novel that leaves you smiling even as it keeps you guessing.
Conclusion
Tom Eaton has struck gold with An Act of Murder. It’s a book that expertly blends mystery, comedy, and charm, creating a deeply satisfying read that entertains from start to finish. Arnold’s journey from struggling actor to accidental detective is both hilarious and heartwarming, and the twists kept me on my toes until the final page.
I cannot recommend this book highly enough. Whether you’re looking for a gripping mystery or a good laugh, this one delivers on all fronts. I, for one, cannot wait to see what’s next for Arnold Prinsloo.
Thank you to Penguin Random House SA for the chance to read this book!
