Title: The Perfect Place To Die
Author: Bryce Moore
Pages: 238
Synopsis
"Zuretta never thought she’d encounter a monster—one of the world’s most notorious serial killers. She had resigned herself to a quiet life in Utah. But when her younger sister, Ruby, travels to Chicago during the World’s Fair, and disappears, Zuretta leaves home to find her.
But 1890s Chicago is more dangerous and chaotic than she imagined. She doesn’t know where to start until she learns of her sister’s last place of employment…a mysterious hotel known as The Castle.
Zuretta takes a job there hoping to learn more. And before long she realizes the hotel isn’t what it seems. Women disappear at an alarming rate, she hears crying from the walls, and terrifying whispers follow her at night. In the end, she finds herself up against one of the most infamous mass murderers in American history—and his custom-built death trap." Via GoodReads
Themes: Serial Killer, Murder Mystery, Sister Bond
Review
General Thoughts
I loved this book. This was my first novel of 2024, and I am so glad that it was! This is a really fascinating murder mystery where you know who the killer is, and the main character does not. I didn't know if I would like that set up, but it really worked for me.
This book is based on actual murders in Chicago and even though it is based on factual events, a lot of what was included in this story was fictional. The end does include an author's note describing what was fiction and what was fact. It didn't bother me that so much of the book deviated from the actual real-life events. However, this is important to note because people shouldn't use this book as an actual account of what occurred.
I loved both the main character Zuretta and her friends. The only downside is that she read much older than 17 and the only way I knew that this book was YA was because the gore was tame. It definitely seems like the characters are all fully fledged adults.
What really sold me on this book though was the spooky vibes were excellent and I really liked how the book ended with feelings of empowerment. The ending left me feeling satisfied. I can't say more without spoilers!
Who would I recommend this book to? People who enjoy historical fiction, serial killers, YA mysteries
Should horror fans put this on the top of their “to read” piles? YES! I do recommend!
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