Review: “How to Seal Your Own Fate”

A slow burn with a clanger of a climax

Having previously solved the murder of her Aunt Francis and taken up residence in Gravesdown Hall, Annie is ready to settle into a country winter and get back to her writing. But her best laid plans are cast aside when she runs into local mystic Peony Lane who promises to disclose details of a hidden crime and tell Annie her fate. Once again the plucky writer must delve deep into local history to solve a long-standing mystery and a more recent series of related murders. Relying on her aunt’s files and journals and the sometimes-dubious accounts of local villagers, Annie works with her best friend and local detective to solve murders both past and present.

This is a tale of mystery and intrigue, blending past and present, logic and mysticism, love and betrayal. There are loads of country estate moments, chocolate box village tropes, colourful local characters and even a ruby-studded dagger and matching ring. 

Set in Rural England, the village of Castle Knoll holds all the charm of a Midsommer Murders location. Perrin’s description of the early winter weather, roaring fires and snug pubs places the reader squarely in the scene.

The story is told through alternating first person contemplations, historical diary notes and reports, and conversations with the various players in the mystery. Each snippet connects like pieces in a jigsaw to reveal the final picture.

Our protagonist, Annie is true to form of any writer, with her keen imagination, eye for detail, and conflicting need for privacy and social activity. She is a practiced procrastinator, readily abandoning her craft in pursuit of the excitement of solving a mystery. Supported by her arty designer friend, Jenny, who is visiting from London, and the rather dishy, slightly enigmatic Detective Crane, the three form a solid team. Supporting characters, be they of the past or current residents all provide that special magic to the fabric of the story.

This is a slow-burn with many red herrings and unpredictable characters. The story gradually builds to a most satisfactory ending, complete with the a few surprises. 

How to Seal your Own Fate is the second instalment of a series. It reads perfectly well as a stand-alone book, but I would recommend reading the first novel to maximise your enjoyment.

If you enjoy cosy mysteries and tv shows like Midsommer Murders, then you will love How to Seal your Own Fate by Kristen Perrin.

I received a free copy of this book through Sisters in Crime – Australia, in exchange for a fair and honest review.