All That's Left Unsaid

If you only read one murder mystery book this year it should be this one. For my Q2 SSR, I read the book All That’s Left Unsaid by Tracey Lien. I’m not usually the type of person to pick up a murder mystery book, but this one was different. I thought this book was a real page turner, the way the characters worked to solve the mystery was so intriguing it kept me on edge the whole time I was reading.

This book contains many interesting literary devices and elements such as figurative language, symbolism, and irony. My favorite of those used was irony. In the beginning of the story, an unfortunate event unfolds and Denny is murdered at a restaurant named Lucky 8. This is the murder Ky works to solve for the remainder of the book. The reason this is an irony is because a very unfortunate event happens at a restaurant that is supposedly lucky. Moreover, in East Asian cultures, the number 8 is considered very lucky. This shows how irony is used in the book, where paradoxes meet mysteries, and the author pulled it off excellently.

As engaging as the novel was, I found it difficult to relate to certain aspects of the book. Most of what I read felt like a window with the occasional mirror. The window the author framed about other cultures intrigued me immensely by transporting me to foreign lands in an ominous and mysterious setting. It was very fascinating to see how the characters navigate through this tragedy while also trying to maintain their daily lifestyles, rituals, and routines. The one thing I think I can relate to is Ky’s curiosity. Just like Ky, when I’m passionate about something and have a question that needs answering, I feel compelled to find the answer I am seeking.

Even if you’re not captivated by murder mysteries, I really think you would enjoy this book. It’s definitely worth picking up and giving it a try. Even if you have never tried a murder mystery before, the carefully crafted characters and interesting cultures used are definitely going to draw you in and present you with the unexpected. Without a doubt, I loved reading this book and I think everyone should pick it up and give it a try.