by Anthony E. Zuiker

I have always liked a good mystery and this was a very good one. I probably liked it even more because I managed to figure out who the killer was after the the second murder, though I could have easily been wrong. The set up is the same as the first book and works perfectly well even if you know how things are going to play out. The pace is fast and just right for what is going on. You get to know the characters just enough to give insight into the type of person they are, which helps you to decide who the murderer is. The murders themselves are pretty inventive and not your normal slasher type killings. The victims are likable for the most part with your usual annoying character thrown in for contrast.

Giles has decided that he would like to avoid the usual places a butler would work after his last experience being used by a killer. He cannot believe that the curse placed on him by Jacqueline Boussard could really follow him. Yes, it has happened twice but here on a tropical Island he should be safe along with the guests. Then he is told that a company has booked the Island for a retreat for their employees, but they will be bringing only 11 people and that seems strange.

Before Giles knows it he finds himself participating in a killing game once again and he helped to bring some staff with him. He knows what the stakes are and soon so do those who arrive thinking they are about to have an enjoyable vacation in paradise.

This does remind me of “Ten Little Indians” a murder mystery I have loved for years. We still have ten since the killer hides among his prey. You can get a few laughs, and try to figure out Whodunnit.

My rating: 4 of 5 killer stars