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Murder at Macbeth

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International Flash 500 Novel Competition Longlist

WHOSE DEADLY SECRET HAS TAKEN CENTRE STAGE?

When a talented, young actress unwittingly stabs herself live onstage after a prop knife is tampered with, suspicion immediately falls on her eclectic band of castmates.

But who had the motive to kill the show's leading lady?

As the insightful, yet disillusioned, Detective Inspector Finley Robson and his shrewd partner, Detective Sergeant Nadia Zahra, interrogate the seven key suspects, secrets unfold to unveil a web of scandal, blackmail, and deceit.

Bitter rivalries, secret trysts and troubled pasts are just the beginning of the story…

Set against the backdrop of a gritty London theatre production of Macbeth, this compelling novel explores a dark world of mystery and intrigue. All is not as it seems...

A hugely gripping police procedural full of unpredictable twists and suspense, Murder at Macbeth will captivate you from the very first page and keep you guessing right until the end.

With an intriguing plot and distinctive characters, this English murder mystery is a compelling whodunnit which is perfect for fans of Paula Hawkins, Karin Slaughter and LJ Ross.

393 pages, Kindle Edition

Published May 17, 2019

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About the author

Samantha Goodwin

2 books30 followers
Samantha Goodwin has written professionally for her business career as a Chartered Marketing Manager for over a decade before turning her hand to fiction. As an avid crime fiction fan, she regularly participates in the renowned Theakston Old Peculier Crime Writing Festival in Harrogate and completed their prestigious Crime Writing Creative Workshop. She also relishes attending literature festivals across the country as well as engaging in numerous online writing communities.

Keen to support upcoming authors, Samantha recently launched the #IndieWritingWisdom initiative on Instagram to collate and share inspiring, original quotes from a wide range of different writers to encourage others.
When she is not writing, Samantha enjoys reading, countryside walks, movies, musicals and almost all chocolate (but controversially not Oreos). She lives in Leeds with her husband, Chris, and son, Jack.

Murder at Macbeth is her first novel and was longlisted for the international Flash 500 Novel Award in 2017.

You can follow Samantha on Instagram: @samanthagoodwinauthor
She invites readers to join her World Book Tour by sharing photos of them reading Murder at Macbeth from where they live or travel and she will repost. Remember to tag her and/or use the hashtag #MurderAtMacbethWorldBookTour

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5 stars
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 78 reviews
Profile Image for Simi Sunny.
Author 5 books76 followers
May 11, 2019
I had this book as an advanced copy. I had the priveledge of reading this wonderful story. An amazing, suspenseful debut novel about two detectives solving a mystery, where you can see every cast's background. You will love and hate them, but you will see how it will lead up to the crime.

You can also check out the review if you grab a copy of her book. Defintely worth to read it for those who are in into mystery, drama, and crime fiction story!
Profile Image for Devyani.
31 reviews13 followers
May 20, 2019
MY RATING: ⭐⭐⭐⭐.5

FAVORITE QUOTES:

“A story doesn’t make sense if you rip out the earlier chapters, no matter how much you want to pretend they didn’t happen.”

“Truth will ultimately prevail where there is pains to bring it to light.”

“God is the omnipresent king and we are merely his playthings for amusement to do with what he fancies. Akin to a spiteful child stomping on ants purely because he could. Or worse, taking out a magnifying glass in the summer heat and frying them to death just to watch them squirm in torment.”

“A loving God wouldn’t be so malicious.”

'‘Beer before wine makes you feel fine. Wine before beer makes you feel queer.’'

NOTE: Would like to thank the author for providing me with a free review copy in exchange of an honest and unbiased opinion. This is a spoiler free review and the views are solely mine.

My Thoughts:

When the author first mailed me asking for a review of her debut novel, “Murder at Macbeth”, I instantly agreed to check out the book since the blurb of the story sounded very compelling. And as expected, I loved this intelligently written mystery novel! With the Shakespearean tragedy, Macbeth as the theme of the novel, “Murder at Macbeth” is an absolute page turner.

The story revolves around Nikki Gowon- a 21 year old black woman and the one playing Lady Macbeth, who stabs herself in the stomach during an amateur theater performance of Macbeth. When her retractable prop knife is switched with a real blade backstage, suspicions have it that Nikki, the lead actress committed an on-stage, dramatical suicide. However, the brilliancy of Detective Finley Robson and Nadia Zahra drives the investigation towards a cleverly planned murder. The seven cast members are the prime suspects, as all of them had a clear reason to kill Nikki.

Police interrogation is one of the most riveting sections of this novel! It is quite evident from the story that the author has put tremendous effort into no.1- characterization and no.2- the structure and development of the plot. I loved how the author has created such powerful and dynamic characters of the Detectives. The bonding between Detective Finley Robson and Nadia Zahra, is not only professional but quite amusing at times as both of them always have each other’s back and at times they would crack silly jokes to assuage the critical environment created by one of the most complicated murder mysteries that they have ever solved. It is indeed appreciable how the author has crafted the capricious characters of the seven cast members, whose ostentatious behaviors shroud their vile secrets. The interrogations got really interesting at times when it was clear to the reader that the suspects want to palliate the seriousness and the tension inside the interrogation room by trying hard to prove themselves innocent. This section of the novel, in particular, gives the reader an insight into the minds of the suspects (and the killer among them) and finely allows the reader to view the story from the perspective of multiple characters!

I loved how the author has added a spooky taste to the story: History says that uttering the word “Macbeth” aloud in a theater causes disasters. Freak accidents, falling scenery and untimely deaths are part of it. This section appears for a brief moment in the story but the eeriness it creates is absolutely amazing!! The minute I locked my eyes on those lines, I had this gut feeling that Man! This journey is going to be a thrilling one!! And yes! The narrative did match up to my level of expectations!

Twists and turns and the curveballs here and there, all add up to fine quality of the novel. Every time I had a Suspect in my mind, I was proved wrong! The story is highly unpredictable! You can only guess the identity of the killer when you reach the end of the novel. I think this is one of the most important qualities that contribute to the making of a fine crime story ! This quality of a mystery novel keeps you glued to your seat and you can’t stop turning the pages until and unless you get to know the identity of the killer! So yes, the author was quite successful in tenaciously building up the suspense in this novel.

The revelation at the end had me like Duh!!!!! Something totally

unexpected, unpredictable and unthinkable!!

Also, I liked how the author has brought up the matter of mental illness/disorder in the story. Though it lasted for a brief moment, the author successfully delineated the facts, treatments and issues concerning that mental condition.

I immensely Loved how the author got so creative with the Chapter Headings!! Artistic titles intrigue the readers even more!

To sum up I’d say that I found the story to be immensely engrossing and thrilling! This is the author’s debut novel, but her commendable way of storytelling tells me that she has had years of experience in writing!  I would strongly recommend this novel to all the mystery and thriller lovers out there!! I am sure it would definitely match up to your levels of expectations. I, being an ardent lover of thriller and crime fiction myself, can confidently guarantee you that!! 🙂 Surely Looking forward to reading more of the author’s works!!

Thanks for stopping by and reading my review  ❤

If you have already enjoyed reading this book then don’t forget to drop down your thoughts in the comment section below. If you are yet to read this book then grab it up asap!

Connect to me via:

Email: devyanisen99@gmail.com

Twitter: @bibliosmiacDS

Instagram: _.bibliosmiacds._

Goodreads account: Devyani
Profile Image for Laura.
1,136 reviews49 followers
January 21, 2021
A great murder-mystery that will have you turning pages long into the night to find out whodunnit and why.

Set against the backdrop of a gritty London theatre production of Macbeth, this novel here not only gives you a gripping police procedural full of unpredictable twists and suspense but also a captivating insight into the backstage of a theatre production, complete with jealous fights for leading roles and all the backstabbing that goes alongside it.

Bitter rivalries, secret trysts and troubled pasts are just the beginning of a story that slowly unfolds into a web of scandal, blackmail, and deceit. All at the poking and prodding of an insightful yet disillusioned Detective Inspector Finley Robson and his shrewd partner, Detective Sergeant Nadia Zahra. They were the true stars of this tale for me. Their interrogation of the seven key suspects was absolutely riveting. From the suspects behavior to the dynamic between the two detectives and the way they always have each other's backs - all of it is excellently rendered.



A solid plot with nice good twists, gripping suspense and a a compelling whodunnit. Murder at Macbeth has it all.

I thoroughly enjoyed it and highly recommend it to anyone looking for an engrossing murder-mystery read.
Profile Image for Shakila (BooksandThemes).
554 reviews26 followers
October 24, 2021
4.5

I’ve never read or seen Shakespeare’s MacBeth, but this book has me wanting to experience it. I truly enjoyed this whodunnit murder mystery, trying to solve the murder. Immediately starting this one my wheels started to turn!

I loved how we were continually given flashbacks from each character’s perspective. As the characters were interviewed, it gave us a few more breadcrumbs to put the pieces together. Knowing there would be a suspect, I started taking notes from the beginning to try to solve along with our Detectives Robson and Zahra, solving Nikki’s murder. I also loved how it wasn’t obvious to me who murdered Nikki. There were characters that it seemed they could have done it, but then something else came and I had to change my thoughts. There were some twists in there that did catch me off guard and at one point I thought everyone could have been the murderer. Midway through I had 2 concrete suspects in my mind and was happy that at least one of them was right!

This book almost read as thought I was watching a play or movie and I loved that!
If your looking for a good murder mystery I would recommend checking this one out. I read it in 2 sittings because I just had to know who dunit!
Profile Image for Swapna Peri ( Book Reviews Cafe ).
1,435 reviews53 followers
June 19, 2019
Book Title: Murder at Macbeth
Author: Samantha Godwin
Format: eBook

Book Title:
The title of the ' Murder at Macbeth ' is very interesting and mysterious.

Book Cover:
The cover image of the book is a silhouette image of a young woman standing in dark with a light focusing on her. The image creates curiosity in the readers after reading the initial reviews and tag line on the cover.

Plot:
Where ever and whenever Macbeth is played in Shoreditch's Gemini Theatre at Commercial street, people die like some evil cast has been spelled. Numerous incidents have created a superstition among the people in the theatre that playing Macbeth may claim more lives.

On March 23rd, Macbeth is planned and during the playtime a female artiste, Nikki is found lifeless on the backstage. Neil Hillton, the play director immediately informs the police and thus the Detective Office Robson and his Sergeant Zahra takes up the case. Before the police arrive, Jimmy, Nikki's love realizes that she is not dead. She is then sent to the hospital. When Robson arrives, they make an official inquiry with all the actors and stage personnel present there and come to know the Macbeth Superstition.

Is it a coincidence? Is it a real superstition? Is there a real curse that is responsible for the deaths? Or did someone has been doing it deliberately to cover up a horrible truth? Was Nikki attacked because she knows the truth?

Read this interesting book to unfold the mystery.

What I like:
1. A very nice storyline
2. The mystery is retained in every chapter.
3. The character of the Detective Officer Robson is very interesting.

What I didn't like:
As the story progresses, many new characters are added at every stage of the story. Too many characters created some confusion.

Characters:
There are a lot of interesting characters in the book. From a passionate play director to sincere artists and dutiful detectives, from the friendly fellow artists to jealous people.

Narration:
The book is a perfect page-turner. From the very start till the very end, it is gripping and compelling.

Language & Grammar:
A very fine language and vocabulary are used in the story.

My Final Verdict:
An interesting mystery!

Book Title: 3/5
Book Cover: 3/5
Plot: 3/5
Characters: 3/5
Narration: 3/5
Language & Grammar: 3/5
Final Rating: 3/5



Profile Image for Anitalia Payne.
244 reviews18 followers
August 17, 2020
An interesting mystery novel. That was what came in my mind as soon as I finished reading this book.

A young woman being murdered during playing her role as “Lady Macbeth”, the prop knife that being used for the role was being switch to a real knife. The question is “who killed her” during the play and of course following with the next questions “why, what is the motive, and how”

I have to say this is a very proper mystery novel, I liked how the storyline being built. Two detectives that being assigned, Robson and Zara, focused only with interviewing all the person who involved with the victim, and successfully solved the whole mystery with a satisfying results. The author made me to follow every detail of what happened with every characters that appeared in this book, including the victim. What makes me surprise, I was able to get the hint from early chapters but I didn’t see what the end would be like..it still surprised me.

It was a little bit a slow build for me, but when the chapters explained about each characters, I was intrigued and continue doing page turner mode on until the end. Each character are well written with their own personal story. How was everyone story being lead to the day the murder happened were explained with good details but not spoiled the mystery. The “who dunn it” element really works in this book. It kind of reminds me with “Vantage Point” the movie, where some characters in there had different point of view to witnessing a murder.

I received this ebook from Samantha Goodwin, in exchange with an honest review. Thank you very much, I’ve really enjoyed reading this one, and how the two detectives interviewing the suspects is my favorite part of this book.

4 stars
Profile Image for Bookoffholic bookwart.
57 reviews12 followers
June 24, 2019
When a talented, young actress, Nikita Gowon unwittingly stabs herself live onstage after a prop knife is tampered with, suspicion immediately falls on her eclectic band of castmates

This novel falls no short of any leading crime-mystery thrillers that are well known. The suspense grips the reader page after page and one may doubt any character he/she/they come across.
Detective Inspector Finley Robson and his shrewd partner, detective sergeant Nadia Zahra, interrogate the seven key suspects, secrets unfold to unveil a web of scandal, blackmail, and deceit.
Author Samantha Goodwin has created some really good characters with a strong back story, which presents the entire story with a sense of mystery and charisma.
she has written the behind the scenes of a theater in such a detailed manner that we could easily picturise it.
she has also brought some serious issues such as sexual assaults, same-sex relationship, drunk-n-driving, and mental illness into the story which make it more meaning and makes us question what else we are missing.
I appreciate her for writing certain intimate scenes in such a non-offense manner that it could really fit into the category of the young adult.
even if it's her debut novel, Samantha has done a fabulous job. I'm really happy to have read such a mystery book after a long time. I'll totally recommend you guys to pick it up and get yourself lost in the world of crime with a really amazing twist at the end.
Profile Image for Julie Embleton.
Author 19 books67 followers
December 29, 2019
A talented actress unwittingly stabs herself on stage with a tampered prop while performing in Shakespeare’s Macbeth. With the director and entire cast under suspicion, the investigating detectives find themselves unravelling a tangled mess until the culprit is finally revealed.
From the first page of Goodwin’s debut mystery, I was hooked. The moment Nikki Gowon finds herself dying on stage before her family and friends, I was itching to find out whodunnit. Goodwin’s characters form into solid, believable, flawed people right from the start, including the jaded Detective Finely and his bright partner Detective Nadia, who although appear entirely mismatched, are a perfect pairing. Goodwin paces the story extremely well with the suspect interviews slowly but surely building a captivating picture of both Nikki and her fellow cast. I was kept guessing right until the very end with this mystery, and was satisfied with the hows and whys of the murderer’s actions. The shining stars in this tale are the two detectives who are brilliantly written and I hope the author plans to include them in future works. Murder at Macbeth is an absorbing read filled with compelling characters skirting the truth of their involvement in Nikki’s life and death.
Profile Image for Randee Green.
Author 6 books76 followers
April 27, 2019
When a real knife is substituted for a prop knife, an actress playing Lady Macbeth accidently stabs herself on stage on opening night. While Nikki Gowon clings to life in a London hospital, Detective Inspector Finley Robson and partner, Detective Sergeant Nadia Zahra, investigate her director and her six co-stars. Everyone has a reason to have wanted Nikki dead, but only one of them is responsible for switching the knives.

I thoroughly enjoyed reading MURDER AT MACBETH, and the novel kept me guessing until the end. Yes, I had a strong suspicion of the killer’s identity. But, since all six of the other suspects had a reasonable motive, I was not positive I was correct until the killer’s identity was revealed. Goodwin delivered with a lot of twists and turns. I also enjoyed the way she told the story from the perspective of multiple characters – including Detective Inspector Robson, the victim, and all of the suspects. The reader gets to see the victim through all of the suspect’s eyes, and we get to go inside the suspects’ heads and see why each of them had motive. I look forward to more novels from Goodwin – especially ones that feature the brilliant but barely functioning Robson.
Profile Image for Caroline Noe.
Author 7 books70 followers
June 7, 2019
When Nikki Gowan steps onto the stage to play Lady Macbeth, she doesn't expect to end her death scene by truly stabbing herself. What follows is the investigation by two mismatched detectives into whodunnit and why.

The narrative is written in the form of interviews and flashbacks from the point of view of multiple characters, building a layered revelation of the suspects that changes your view of each. The format reminded me of Agatha Christie TV adaptations and would work well as such, each character well defined and interesting.

Did I guess the murderer and why? Well, yes. It was, however, a fun, well written chase that left me wanting more books involving the two detectives, whom I found the most intriguing characters.
Profile Image for Blue.
1,589 reviews89 followers
July 12, 2020
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Yeahhhh not today...

This book was really predictable for me and I found myself writing a mental to do list of what I needed to clean around the house than read this.

The characters were dull and were drowned out by the continuous adding of more characters that were unnecessary, and because there was soo many characters their personalities lapped and they all seemed to speak exactly the same. All the characters were a copy of one...

The plot was... somewhat happening. There was a lot of build up for a 'yep saw that coming' moment. This book was too predictable for my liking.

Sadly not a fan.
Profile Image for Catherine.
37 reviews6 followers
January 20, 2020
This page-turning mystery would make Agatha Christie proud! The story shifts seamlessly between past and present as detectives Robson and Zahra work to uncover the truth behind the lead actress’s on-stage stabbing. Everyone is a suspect, everyone has a motive and though the author dropped clever crumbs along the way, I was plenty surprised in the end! Great writing, strong pacing, vibrant characters, twists, turns and bends that keep you guessing all make for a must read. Can't wait for more from this author!
Profile Image for Vicky Peplow.
Author 35 books40 followers
May 28, 2020
An amazing read.

Well just finished the amazing crime/thriller really enjoyed it from beginning to end with plenty of twists and turns woving all the way through. Great job.
Profile Image for Danielle Dexter.
Author 2 books8 followers
May 10, 2019
A suspenseful debut that keeps you guessing until the end!

I was sent this ARC in exchange for my honest review.

I love books that have you on the edge of your toes, flipping through each page with an anxious anticipation in order to get to the end. This book did not disappoint.

Goodwin was able to create a story from various perspectives that aided to the overall mystery of the plot. As with perception, this helped the reader see the case through the eyes of the different characters in order to draw a conclusion.

While I had a sneaking suspicion who the villain was, I wasn't entirely certain. The writing was intriguing, suspenseful and overall engaging.

If you're looking for a fresh take on a 'whodunnit' novel, look no more than Goodwin's debut.

Bravo! Encore! Encore!
Profile Image for D.M. Taylor.
Author 4 books37 followers
April 16, 2021
What if the lead actress in Macbeth who dramatically performs her suicide onstage, accidentally stabbed herself in front of you—unknowingly holding a genuine sword instead of the stage prop?

Following two detectives through the murder case of why this talented young actress was targeted for this crime, it was an enjoyable whodunnit. I had several theories throughout the novel and still managed to be surprised in the end. Well done!
Profile Image for Carolyn Ruffles.
Author 6 books41 followers
May 27, 2020
I enjoy crime novels and Murder at Macbeth was very readable. I looked forward to picking it up. The narrative flowed well and the plot was intriguing. My opinion as to the identity of the murderer fluctuated as it was supposed to but I had guessed by the end. I particularly liked the Macbeth quotes at the beginning of each chapter. A well- written novel.
Profile Image for Brompton Sawdon.
78 reviews2 followers
July 9, 2019
Macbeth is probably the Shakespeare play that I know the best, thanks to GCSE English. Having saw this book on Instagram, I was suitably intrigued to part with a couple of pounds to purchase the Kindle version. Billed as a police procedural from a new author, it certainly caught my eye, combining the two things I quite like to read.

The book starts with the opening night of a new version of Macbeth. You sense the small cast are already at each others throats before you start. However the play seems to be going well, despite the role of Lady Macbeth being suddenly given to the bright and dazzling Nikki. The director, who has a reputation for experimental theatre, has put on the play with a very small cast. The cursed Scottish play as it known, certainly was fated in this instance.

On the first night, Nikki, Lady Macbeth, kills herself with a knife, that was supposed to retract. Enter the detective pair of Robson and Zahra and the fun starts with seven people all suspects in her death. Who changed the knife? Who hated Nikki enough for them to contemplate murder? That’s for moody Robson and brilliant Zahra to solve.

This book took me by surprise in a way. I expected, I guess, a gritty police tale. The story though was very Agatha Christie in style. The suspects drawn from a small list with no outside influence that appears at the end to surprise us. In that way this book is a real gem. The storyline is unravelled, like a twisted ball of string, through the interviews of the suspects. There’s more to the jealousy and hatred in this cast than a whole portfolio of Shakespeare plays. At times you wonder if this is the norm, and if so how do plays ever get put on. There’s tragedy on the way, and another crime is committed that made me want to castrate a member of the cast.

It’s a really easy book to read. Those who love crime books will devour this with passion. It ticks every box in the genre, whilst adding an extra level at times. The detective pair are really just bedding in to their roles by the end of the story, but there’s sufficient chemistry between them to really look forward to the next book. Their story has yet to be told.

So I’d award this book a 92%. It was a brilliant read that deserves to be read.
Profile Image for Sara "Cristia" H. J..
55 reviews3 followers
July 30, 2019
Samantha Goodwin is an exceptional and talented writer, whose pen is capable to take the reader's imagination into the story she has created.

The book starts with Nikki Gowon being murdered onstage, but the act takes place in the most awkward way. With seven suspects, among her co-stars, cast mates, and the director, it's a difficult task for Detective Sergeant Nadia Zahra and Detective Inspector Finley Robson to find out who the culprit is.

The story takes us in and out the fortnight previous to the crime scene in a game of lies, guessings, and time tracking, where not only passion is the main fuel to the events that happen next, but also jealousy and the thirst for fame.

As the story goes on, the reader is easily engaged with the thread of events and won't even imagine who the culprit turns out to be. The twist is so unexpected that you'll be mind blown for a while and will be tempted to doubt how much trust you can give a person or if you'll ever get to know someone utterly.

The development of each of the characters' personalities as the truth (or lies) unfold is fascinating and believable, for you'll understand the motives they had to be the suspects of Nikki's murder. You'll surely feel identified with at least one of the characters and will also pity or hate some of them as the surprising subplots will be revealed at the perfect pace.

I can't remember one part in this story that was boring and I love the diversity of characters involved in the whole process. It gives such a vast spectrum to the book and more credibility. Every detail is well described and placed exactly where it has to be without an overloaded description, making the story more visual. It was like a movie running in my head.

Each character has his or her distinctive voice and are so well crafted that you'll be invested in taking them seriously as real people written by different writers. This is one important element which makes the story with a bunch of characters more realistic.

I'm sure Nikki's death and her murderer's story will remain with me for some time! And if you're a lover of crime thrillers, you can't ignore this one. I give it a 5 stars review for perfect plot and subplots, and believable characters.
May 12, 2019
Is this a dagger which I see before me,
The handle toward my hand?
-Macbeth: Act 2, Scene 1

Every director hopes that their theater production's opening night will be a night to remember--that it will be written in all the papers with glowing reviews. No one expects to see an ancestress's supposed death on stage turn into a real murder most foul, and yet, in Samantha Goodwin's Murder at Macbeth, that is exactly what happens. One minute Nikki Gowon is killing it on stage, and the next moment, she has thrust a very real dagger--not the prop she was expecting--into her stomach. Adding one more tragedy to the curse of Macbeth productions. It is up to Detective Inspector Finley Robson and his partner Detective Sergeant Nadia Zahra to determine who switched the prop knife with the real thing and calculatingly planned Nikki's murder.

From page one, Goodwin plants the reader into the midst of the investigation, giving us looks into Nikki's point-of-view moments before her death, the director's reaction to her stabbing, and then into the interrogation room with DI Robson. Together with the detectives, we suss out the clues, following leads, and trying to find the murderer. Was it the jealous boyfriend, the possible lover, the best friend, the best friend's boyfriend, the jealous cast mate, the director, the production assistant? The casual, candid writing style and the first-person interviews enhances the development of the characters, making them more realistic and relateable as well as providing insight into their possible motives.

All in all, Goodwin has crafted a compelling, complex, and thoroughly enjoyable mystery novel. It isn't as gritty as some can be, but it definitely is not a cozy mystery either. Because it doesn't cater to a niche audience,  Murder at Macbeth will appeal to a broader range of mystery-lovers and general fiction readers. As for myself, I devoured this book, and I burned the midnight oil to finish it (I needed so much caffeine the next day to sustain myself). I literally could not put this book down. Thus, I give it 5/5 stars. Brava, Samantha Goodwin, Brava!
43 reviews
April 9, 2020
A wonderful story! This is the first thing I want to say about this book.
It’s a very well written murder mystery with a perfect cast of characters where you never know if they’re acting or being themselves. I’m not normally a big fan of whodunnits as some of them don’t leave any clues as to the culprit and it’s not till the end you have any chance of even making a good guess. In Samantha Goodwin’s tale of murder on the stage, however, there are little clues along the way that keep you guessing until you think you know the answer — only to find out in the end that you were wrong. It’s only then you can sort the real clues from the red herrings and misdirections.

The characters are well developed and we get to know them gradually as they’re all interviewed by Detective Inspector Robson and his partner, Detective Sergeant Zahra. With these two we also get their personalities fed to us little by little. They are flawed and organic just like we all are. Both hide secrets behind a professional mask, although some are not as hidden as the character would like.

The premise of the story is not new, but also not in any way tired and repetitive. The author has a wonderful way of making it feel fresh and undiscovered. As the title suggests, it’s set in a theatre where the cast is rehearsing for opening night. The old curse of Macbeth seems to have cast it shadow once more over a performance of Shakespeare’s tragic tale when a death occurs under unusual circumstances. London’s East End is the backdrop for the story with the play taking place off-off the West End. The cast’s interwoven private lives and new acquaintances will cast you straight into a web of lies, half-truths and confessions.
Find out who knew what through the determined police work and witness interrogations performed by the intrepid Detective duo while they struggle with their own personal lives threatening to overshadow the search for a killer. Alas, dear reader, there’s a killer about.
Profile Image for Joanna.
99 reviews16 followers
June 6, 2019
Full review on my blog at: Imagination Bubble

Every cast mate becomes a suspect, when the talented, lead actress in the production of Macbeth dies after she stabs herself live onstage. It is a job of detective Finley Robson and Nadia Zahra to find out who out of the seven people working at the theater production had the motive to tamper with the prop knife.

Murder at Macbeth is an intriguing and gripping novel set in London, filled with unpredictable plot twists.

There is a vast amount of characters in this book, on top of two detectives that are working on the case with one of their associates, there is seven castmates of the victim that are suspects. Additionally, there is a few of her family members popping in and out as well. Despite that, the author has done an amazing job introducing all of them, it didn't feel rushed. There wasn’t too much information to the point where the reader would feel overwhelmed, but there was enough to make for a compelling story.

The point of view of the narrative keeps changing and so the reader learns all about the victim from different perspective, which was fascinating. It felt realistic, people having their own feelings and opinions, lying about certain things that then they have to confront, when they are brought out to light.

If you’re worrying that you need to know the actual play Macbeth in order to read this book, you don’t have to. It only serves for the world of the story if you will. I did like how the chapters not only had titles but had titles from the play, I miss that in books, a lot of authors don’t do that anymore.

The ending bothered me a small bit. Once we learn who the killer is, the chapters that follow feel very rushed, which is weird because the rest of the book had a really good pace.
Profile Image for Emmerita.
35 reviews3 followers
June 6, 2019
In this debut novel, shrouded in secrets and twists, Samantha Goodwin introduces a story unlike one I read. At the center is the murder of Nikita Gowon and the Shakespearean play, Macbeth. The story follows the two detectives interrogating members of the cast and it switches from the present to the past telling each side of the casts' story.

From the first chapter, the story starts unraveling with one revelation after the other. In the end, the person you least expect to be the murderer reveals their unexpected reason for murdering Nikita Gowon.

I'm a sucker for British novels so it was pretty easy to immerse in the setting of this novel. And the descriptions were helpful in creating a full and vivid image. To be frank, I don't read crime novels but since these past months I've been exploring new genre's, I gave Murder at Macbeth a try. And boy did it have a lot of twists and revelations (as I assume crime novels should have). Some clues went over my head as I reached the end of the story, which when I look back on now, tied well together in the end. And as for the twists, some I expected but others came as a surprise.

Now, the highlight of this story and something I commend the author for, is the characters she created. If I'm not mistaken, there are ten main characters all of whom are so distinct, the author portrays that in every description; in the manner they carry themselves and the way they speak. No character feels like a copy of the other and they aren't generic! They're all so unique with different backgrounds (which Samantha works in there with enough subtlety to not drift away from the main plot).

Overall, it was worth the time it took to read this story and if you're a crime fan, I recommend it. And the author is amazing so give her a follow.
June 19, 2019
I wouldn't necessarily call this a cosy mystery novel as it does have a few darker elements so I'd classify it as a police procedures/classic Who Dun It? and it's one that I truly recommend.  

When a young actress is murdered in a very theatrical manner on the opening night of Macbeth, Robson and Zahra are called in to investigate.  In history, the play of Macbeth is shrouded in mythology and suspicion  The setting for this murder mystery is such a clever idea as it paves the way for a bunch of suspects with an aptitude for lying and pretense.  Everyone is a suspect!

Once the beginning of the story is told,  the chapters follow the same format.  Each suspect is brought into the interrogation room and questioned by Zahra and Robson and then we are taken back to the time in question to discover what happened.  As each suspect is interviewed, it seems at first as though there are no strong leads and everybody is hiding something.  Slowly and surely small clues begin to emerge and the jigsaw begins to come together revealing darker and more sinister happenings.  The timing of revealing the clues is perfect throughout the book - steady enough to build tension and suspense without loosing momentum and pace. 

Zarha and Robson are a fabulous team and I really hope this isn't the last we will see of them.  I'm clinging to hope they will get more outings.  It's great to see both male and female counterparts with equal intelligence although each character brings a different perspective to the proceedings.  Robson is passionate and will often forget the rules whist Zarha is cool headed and logical - a brilliant combination.

Overall this is a brilliant and addictive murder mystery  with a cleverly written plot and entertaining characters.  Highly recommended!  
Profile Image for Stephanie.
198 reviews18 followers
May 17, 2019
When an aspiring actress, Nikki Gowan, stabs herself live onstage after a prop knife is switched with a real knife, suspicion falls on her director and six castmates. The fact that the suspects are all actors makes the job tougher for Detective Inspector Finley Robson and his partner, Detective Sergeant Nadia Zahra, who must figure out who had the strongest motive to plan this murder.

I really enjoyed the way the story unfolded. We meet the suspects and get their sides of the story in a series of flashbacks that come out during the interviews the detectives conduct with each of the suspects. These flashback stories overlap, contradict or collaborate one another, causing some suspects to be interrogated twice.

The flashbacks also made the story more compelling because we get to see the events from the different perspectives of the people involved. This style of storytelling gave the reader a really good insight into each of the character’s motivations and insecurities. Slowly, an interesting profile of the victim is built up since we get to see her from so many different angles. Nikki Gowan was a beloved daughter, an adored sister, a villain, a manipulator, a object of desire or a protector, depending on who was telling the story.

There was also hints and teasers into the private lives of Robson and Zahra. The two detectives have incredibly different personalities but balance each other out very well. I found both of them interesting enough to hope that this is the start of a long-running series.

You can read my full review on my blog at: https://www.bookfrolic.com/book-revie...
Profile Image for Catherine Edward.
Author 10 books115 followers
June 29, 2019
Murder at Macbeth is a treat for crime and mystery lovers.

It starts with stage actress Nikki, stabbing herself while hundreds of audience watching. When the scene ends, claps drown the theatre. Only behind the closed curtains, Nikki pleads unsuccessfully to her colleagues with her eyes before losing consciousness.

The director and everyone first thinks that she got too much into the character. But when she doesn't move even when it's time for the next scene, to their horror they realize what had happened.

Nikki is rushed to the hospital and the detectives get to work, slowly unraveling the knots of mystery. The more they dig more politics and propaganda comes out. The anticipation only keeps on building from there on.

They are led on a tail chase as they follow each bread crumbs, so are the readers. The success of this author lies in the factor that readers are led on to suspect anything and everything they come across. The story is well plotted that readers don't narrow down their suspects for at least 90% of the story.

Even if a few had succeeded in guessing the killer, there is still a suspense that you never expected. Like I said, this crime drama is a treat to crime and mystery lovers.

When I started reading I felt a wave of nostalgia. I grew up reading crime mysteries. And this book reminded me of my childhood days when I was first introduced to books. Such a good old memories.

The book sucked me in, taking me to London along with the characters. It's a while since I got lost into a story so religiously.

Author Samantha had done an great job in her debut novel, which only increases the expectation of the readers for her next. Highly recommend this read.
Profile Image for J.R. Alvarado.
3 reviews1 follower
May 29, 2019
It's been awhile since I have read a murder mystery, and Murder at Macbeth did not disappoint. I would have never guessed this was Goodwin's debut novel, it is very well written and an easy read.

When I think of Macbeth a few themes come to mind - ambition, courage, violence, deceit and guilt. Murder at Macbeth has all these elements layered into the story. The book starts off strong, the leading lady of the play has been murdered. Goodwin drops us right into all the action. Her descriptive writing paints a vivid picture of the scene before the characters even speak. The author takes us on a twisting, turning ride where you think you know who did it, only to find another suspect. There is definitely no shortage of suspects in this tale. Goodwin's timely planting of seeds of doubt serve to misdirect and cast suspicion. I went from loving Nikki to not liking her and back to liking her. It was an emotional roller-coaster.

The characters are not cookie cutter, but have depth and enough backstory to give the reader insight into their lives and their motivations. I was very intrigued by Detective Robson and would love another book that delves into his story. I enjoyed the elements of Shakespeare that are woven into the story. Despite everything that's going on, it's easy to keep up. The story unfolds beautifully and with perfect timing, layer by layer.

This was a quick and easy read. I thoroughly enjoyed the book. I'm looking forward to other books by this author.
Profile Image for S Carolina Rio.
181 reviews10 followers
May 31, 2020
I was so hooked to this book from chapter one!
It’a a bit of a closed-room mystery as you know who can be the possible suspects but it seems like you will never figure out who did it.

I really loved the narrative and how the story was presented with interviews and flashbacks from the different characters. It was super easy to follow and gripping at every chapter.

I had so many feelings whilst I was reading this book. The only characters I loved from beginning to the end were the detectives: DI Robson and DS Zahra. I would love to read more books about them and lead more about their story!

I had really mixed feeling about the main character, Nikki, and actually am still pondering whether I like her or not! This being said, the characters are strong and really well written. I really disliked a couple of characters and was proven right (and wrong too!) about them. Hands down to Samantha Goodwin for making such great and complex characters that made me so confused on whether to trust them or not.

This story brings to light so many important issues as well. This includes sexual assault, drunk driving, mental issues (and health issues in general), relationships and sexuality. It makes the story really meaningful and it just added so many layers to a mystery that will unravel in the end.

I kind of had an inkling about the possible killer but overall I was still surprised about how it all unravel!

Overall I really enjoyed this book, it kept me gripped from the beginning and I would highly recommend it to any fans of great crime and mystery books. I can’t wait to read more by the author and will be looking forward to her next books.
Profile Image for Ilona Nurmela.
541 reviews9 followers
January 30, 2020
Colin Dexter’s Inspector Morse meets Det. Joss Carter from Person of Interest
I absolutely loved this Christiesque crime novel and thanks to Insta discovered a new favourite indie author! When a drama student slash amateur actress Nikki stabs herself with a real blade during opening night of the Scottish play, Metropolitan Detectives Robson and Zahra find themsels investigating an attempted murder with six suspects all of whom play pretend with relish. The reader is kept at the edge of her seat throughout the book - will Nikki make it, why was she in a tiff with her boyfriend and bff, why would she not have a social media presence before university, who did it and why and why, oh why does everyone lie by omission? Goodwin dripfeeds you everyone’s past deeds and indiscretions, creating an intricate web of motives to kill a 21yo girl who ‘everyone loved’ or so everyone says. I loved the reserved muslim Det.Sg Zahra with her colourful headscarves and the fact that both police officers were theatre and Shakespeare buffs. Every single character felt real, every tragedy borrowed from life and the sheer concentration of broken people in the arts was astounding. Until the very end I wasn’t sure Nikki’s mysterious ex or the director himself hadn’t orchestrated the ‘accident’ with his mistress. Definitely a fast-paced, thrilling intrigue of a read, totally recommend, especially for Poirot fans.
Profile Image for B.T. Keaton.
Author 1 book80 followers
June 2, 2020
The book begins with a shocker of an event; the (sort of) attempted murder of an actress Nikki Gowan, right onstage in the middle of a theatre performance. As a fan of the "Clue" movie from the 80s, this novel was right up my alley. Macbeth, Goodwin's fantastic debut novel, is told from 1st person POV (my personal favourite writing style) with nearly every one of those perspectives delivered from characters who all had enough motivation to want to kill Nikki. Plenty of sharp (no pun intended, but yes, still pun intended) surprises as the story unwinds towards the finale, which I'd wager you won't see coming. Goodwin has a unique way of keeping the classic sort of "whodunit?" tale fresh, and exciting, and the pacing never relents. The most striking part of the novel is how Nikki is portrayed via the other characters... at times you feel for her, you even sympathize, and yet you also come to dislike her. It's a fascinating way of deconstructing a human life, and a sobering reminder that, from time to time, we must all look inward and check our hearts and motivation(s). The individual characters are distinct, and believable, which makes Macbeth even further immersive and worthy of your time. Pick it up with your cuppa on a dark night by a rainy window like I did, and enjoy the thrill ride!
Profile Image for Becka.
20 reviews
April 30, 2019
I love a good murder mystery and this story did not disappoint!

Our mystery follows the kooky cast of characters set to perform one of the most famous and notoriously cursed plays in history, Shakespeare's Macbeth. Our victim is a seemingly innocent girl named Nikki, who has a passion for the theatre and her role as leading lady, Lady Macbeth. In scene that normally doesn't exist, our leading lady is tragically struck down by her own hand when a prop knife is swapped out with a real one.

With the cast shocked and the audience confused, everyone begins to wonder, who could have wanted her dead?

I absolutely loved the style in which this book was written in. The reader is given the chance to get to know the eclectic cast of characters as the detectives work through the suspects and their motives.

I also really liked the Shakespearean theme surrounding the story. It kept everything grounded, yet surreal as the drama that usually only unfolded on the stage seemed to seep into the characters lives and actions.

This is a mystery I don't think I will ever forget. I loved the story, the characters, and the style. I can't wait to see what Samantha Goodwin does next! Maybe more mysteries with Detectives Robson and Zahra!
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