14 January 2026

I am back after an extended break. This is my first review post since November 2025 – I needed to step away from the blog as part of a digital detox, but I have read more than ever. So here we go, the first of many reviews to come.

The Last Stage of Grief Is Murder is a dark, emotionally charged thriller that leans heavily into the psychology of loss—and it does so with unsettling effectiveness.

From the opening pages, Ivor’s love for Becky is undeniable, which makes her sudden death hit hard. His grief feels raw, messy, and all-consuming, and Tam Barnett does a great job of showing how loss can warp a person’s sense of right and wrong. As Ivor becomes increasingly obsessed with uncovering the truth behind Becky’s death, the story slips into darker territory filled with secrets, manipulation, and long-buried lies that refuse to stay hidden.

What stood out most for me was the psychological tension. This isn’t a fast-paced, action-heavy thriller—instead, it slowly tightens the screws as Ivor’s emotional state unravels. Watching his grief curdle into something dangerous was both fascinating and deeply uncomfortable, which I think was exactly the point. The author keeps you questioning Ivor’s reliability and motives, making it hard to fully trust anyone—including the narrator himself.

That said, the pacing does slow in places, particularly during the more introspective moments, which may not work for every reader. However, those quieter sections also add depth to Ivor’s character and make the final developments feel earned.

The Last Stage of Grief Is Murder is a haunting exploration of love, loss, and obsession, wrapped in a psychological thriller that lingers long after the final page. A solid and unsettling read that earns a strong four stars from me.