A Deadly Reunion: A Review of "There Should Have Been Eight"

A Deadly Reunion

Nalini Singh’s “There Should Have Been Eight” is a gripping psychological thriller that takes readers on a suspenseful journey into the dark underbelly of friendship and secrets. Set against the backdrop of a secluded estate in the New Zealand Southern Alps, the novel follows a group of seven friends who reunite for a weekend of reminiscing and closure. However, their reunion quickly turns into a nightmare as a series of mysterious deaths unravels the hidden truths and toxic relationships within their group.

A Haunting Past

The story is centered around the tragic death of Bea, one of the friends, who passed away nine years ago. The remaining seven friends gather at her family’s estate, a grand yet decaying mansion, to confront their past and pay tribute to their lost friend. As the weekend progresses, a sense of unease and paranoia creeps in, fueled by the isolated setting, strange occurrences, and the looming presence of Bea’s memory.

A Dark and Twisted Web

Singh masterfully crafts an atmosphere of suspense and dread, utilizing the gothic elements of the setting and the unraveling of the characters’ secrets. The author delves into the complexities of human relationships, exploring themes of envy, jealousy, betrayal, and the destructive power of secrets. The characters are well-developed, each harboring their own hidden agendas and dark desires. The narrative is interspersed with flashbacks to Bea’s life, providing insights into the dynamics of the group and the events leading to her untimely death.

A Puzzle to Solve

One of the strengths of the novel is its ability to keep the reader guessing. Singh skillfully manipulates the timeline, revealing information gradually and shifting the focus between the present and the past. This creates a sense of uncertainty and keeps the reader engaged as they try to piece together the puzzle of who is responsible for the deaths and why.

A Few Flaws

However, while the novel is undeniably suspenseful and well-crafted, it does suffer from some predictability. The plot twists, though executed with skill, are not entirely surprising to readers familiar with the genre. Additionally, some characters, particularly Luna, remain underdeveloped and serve mainly as plot devices.

A Thrilling Read

Despite these minor shortcomings, “There Should Have Been Eight” is a compelling and atmospheric thriller that will keep readers on the edge of their seats. Singh’s skillful storytelling, combined with the intriguing premise and well-developed characters, make this a worthwhile read for fans of psychological thrillers and gothic fiction.