When famous actress Vanessa Forsyth is found dead in her dressing room, with a bullet hole in her head and a gun on the floor, everyone assumes she has taken her own life. It is only a matter of time, however, before DI Ronnie Twist and her sergeant, Luke Carter, discover that the film star was murdered. As suspicion falls on Vanessa’s family and friends, the police discover that more than one person had reason to want her out of the way. And as the net closes around her own family, Vanessa’s neighbour and protégée, Billie, finds that those she trusts most have more secrets than she ever imagined. Set in the market town of Beverley, The Narcissist is the third Twist in the Tale novel. There were lots of twist and turns in this book. Kept me hooked and guessing until the end.

Thank you to Netgally, the publishers, and Anne Wedgewood

When I requested this book I was unaware that it was apart of a series, one that requires you to read the previous books for this one to make sense. I am unable to read all the previous books along with this one before the publish date. Therefore, I will rate this a fair 3/5 stars and will adjust the rating and review when I am able to read all the books in the series along with this one.

"The Narcissist" is a captivating murder mystery set in the charming market town of Beverley. When Hollywood star Vanessa Forsyth is found dead, DI Ronnie Twist and her team unravel a tangled web of motives and secrets among Vanessa's inner circle. As the investigation unfolds, the story masterfully explores the darker aspects of human nature, revealing a complex and thrilling tale of deceit and betrayal. With a cast of intriguing characters and unexpected twists, this third installment in the Twist in the Tale series will keep you hooked until the very last page. Personally, I found the character development to be exceptional, with a standout performance from the protagonist, DI Ronnie Twist. Her sharp instincts and empathetic approach made her a compelling and relatable heroine. I highly recommend "The Narcissist" to fans of gripping whodunits and character-driven mysteries.

Murder Most Foul…
The third Twist in the Tale novel, set in the market town of Beverley, and a famous actress found dead in her dressing room sparks a mystery bubbling with mayhem, mischief and intrigue. The discarded pistol and the bullet hole immediately points to a suicide but it soon becomes evident that a murder has been committed. Another engaging and immersive whodunit in traditional vein with a well drawn cast of characters, an intriguing plot and a well imagined setting.

This is the first book by Anne Wedgwood I have read. It won't be the last. I'm so pleased to find someone following the traditions of good-storytelling in a crime novel which is entirely character (rather than plot) driven.
The author tells the story from the perspective of a young, amateur actress, who also happens to be a suspect in a murder case, thus enabling her to avoid the tropes of a police procedural, which have been overused in crime novels (and crime dramas on TV) in recent years.
The extended family at the heart of the investigation thrives on old-fashioned values, whilst behind closed doors the seeds of violent death are sown, amidst intrigue, suspence, jealousy and eventually hatred.

A compelling read. I really liked the characters and had no idea who the murderer was. I especially liked the epilogue which states that solving a mystery is not a happy ending, there is always fallout.