How To Kill Your Biggest Fan by Helen Blair (Audiobook)

 

Hazel Witt used to be a successful romance writer; unfortunately, her star is on the wane. She also dislikes having to engage with her fans. When a letter from her biggest fan, Margo, hints that she has taken her own life, Hazel digs into the past and discovers hundreds of letters from Margo, letters that display disturbing behaviour and give her an idea for a new novel.

I do enjoy the new breed of modern stalker novels, the dark humour, contemporary setting and unreliable narrator all appeal to me. Recent books in this sub-genre that I've loved at Cuckoo by Callie Kazumi and Julie Tudor Is Not A Psychopath by Jennifer Holdich. It's no wonder that How To Kill Your Biggest Fan by Helen Blair leapt out at me.

The main character, Hazel, has been writing romance novels for twenty years, which has allowed her to live comfortably, avoiding interactions with people in general. She's well aware that she has to keep her fans happy by doing book signings and guest appearances, but she avoids these as much as possible and certainly doesn't do anything beyond the basics.

I loved the way that the author poked fun at everything involved in modern-day publishing, from book signings through to podcasts. The story is filled with satire, and it certainly will make you ponder the next time you're at any kind of author event.

When Hazel's assistant uncovers a disturbing letter from Margo Martin, a young woman who's been a fan of hers since her early years as a magazine writer, they become concerned about her well-being. Discovering hundreds of unread letters from Margo in which she pours out her heart, and some of the terrible things she's done, gives Hazel an idea for a brand new book, something completely different. However, as Hazel digs into Margo's past, it becomes obvious that someone is watching her. I was completely engrossed; the storyline flowed perfectly. Not only was I interested in Margo's backstory, I also found myself worrying about Hazel's safety and the identity of the mystery watcher. The narrator, Susie Riddell, did a brilliant job at building the tension as all three stories eventually converged, with a conclusion that leaves you satisfied, but chuckling.

This is only available in audiobook format currently, hopefully the publishers will release it in paperback or ebook soon.

My thanks to NetGalley and Bolinda Audio for a review copy of How To Kill Your Biggest Fan by Helen Blair.