A review by tessa_talks_books
A Serial Killer's Guide to Marriage by Asia Mackay

5.0

 If the title doesn't hook you, the irreverent tone definitely will. A Serial Killer's Guide to Marriage is an unexpected delight—a dark, twisty, laugh-out-loud exploration of what happens when love, murder, and a hefty dose of dry humor collide. Asia Mackay's knack for blending the macabre with the mundane is a triumph, making this book a compulsively readable gem that pleasantly surprised me.

Let's start with Haze, our endlessly fascinating leading lady. Haze is everything I didn't know I needed in a protagonist: sharp, layered, and simmering with complexities that make her feel utterly real. She's a killer (literally), yet Mackay gives her this beautifully human core, tugging at my sympathies and making me feel empathetic even as I nervously chuckled at her ruthless efficiency. Following Haze's journey feels like peeling back layers of a particularly deadly onion. Every revelation about her character adds intrigue, keeping me hooked from page one.

Thanks to those short, snappy chapters, the pacing is as slick as a well-oiled knife. Each one feels like a punchy vignette, propelling you forward at breakneck speed while never skimping on the details that make the story so rich. I blinked and suddenly found myself fifty pages in, hungry for more. It's the kind of book that grabs you by the collar and doesn't let go, making it perfect for readers who thrive on thrillers with a touch of irreverence. The pacing will keep you exhilarated and hungry for more.

What truly elevates the story, though, is the tone. Mackay masterfully balances humor and grit, creating moments that are as laugh-out-loud funny as they are tense. It's a tricky line, but she nails it, making even the darkest scenes feel oddly entertaining. Imagine if a Tarantino film met a rom-com, with a splash of noir—and then sprinkle in Mackay's signature wit. That's the vibe here.

Whether you're a fan of antiheroes, dark humor, or fast-paced thrillers, A Serial Killer's Guide to Marriage is an absolute must-read. It's sharp, it's smart, and it's just the right amount of wicked fun. Plus, Haze? She's a character you won't soon forget—and honestly, wouldn't dare to. 😉

Grab this one if you're in the mood for something bold and utterly original. You won't regret it.