Reviewed by Ephantus Gold
“The Ex-Girlfriend Murder Club: A Feminist Murder Mystery of Three Women Teaming Up to Solve a Crime and Get Revenge on a Cheating Ex (A Hu Done It Mystery, 1)” by Gloria Chao is a clever, emotionally charged murder mystery about three women brought together by a sad reality and who come across a shocking discovery that leads them to devise a horribly flawed revenge scheme. Purchase Here.
After three months of dating, Kathryn deeply believes that Tucker her boyfriend is a wonderful “epic” man—a gift from above that is unmatched. He recently asked her what kind of rings she liked, which was a blatant indication of a soon-to-be lifelong commitment. She loves him deeply and one day she unexpectedly decides to visit his opulent condo unexpectedly. She is shocked to find a sign that reads, “Come in, my love,” as well as rose petals, which indicate to her that he may be getting ready to pop the question. To keep his “setup” intact, she slips into the washroom, only to emerge and find him mid-proposal with another lady.
Later, she takes the improbable step of befriending the lady, and after a sincere discussion, they conclude that he is their common enemy. They also consent to travel together on a trip that Kathlyn had planned for Tucker and herself. But they are completely chilled by what they find at the Airbnb she had booked. Tucker is inside with yet another woman. Embroiled in yet another lie, he is left with just one option: run as fast as he can for his dear life.
Through mutual understanding, the three learn of his deeply layered deception and manipulation. Thoughts of retribution drive them to his house, where they discover him dead on his bed. After remembering that they practically “smeared” their DNA all over his house earlier, they understand they will be the prime suspects. Subsequent events as revealed in the next chapters put the trio on notice to prove their innocence, which is followed by a myriad of shocking secrets about Tucker that completely takes them aback. They have no idea, however, that looking into him is dangerous and may potentially endanger their lives.
This book features themes that honor female friendship and empowerment. In addition, it explores themes of deceit, manipulation, and emotional control; in each instance, the reader is challenged to face their own fears and think about what they would do in comparable circumstances. As they search for the truth that may “free them permanently,” its characters—all of whom are edgy and flawed in some way—skillfully move the narrative along with their odd decisions and brave actions.
The story’s close examination of parenting techniques profoundly highlights the effects rejection may have on a child and how that may span into their adulthood. Additionally, it deftly discloses complex facts and truths about emotional manipulators and serial liars’ characteristics. Every occurrence, phone call, chat, and revelation is bound to keep the reader guessing as to what the characters’ next adrenaline-fueled and improbable action will be. Chao is notable in this novel for her unpredictability and deft use of humor to both give comic relief and help the characters overcome their grief. Her book, “The Ex-Girlfriend Murder Club: A Feminist Murder Mystery of Three Women Teaming Up to Solve a Crime and Get Revenge on a Cheating Ex (A Hu Done It Mystery, 1)” a worthy and powerful novel about women banding together for a shared purpose, will instill confidence in female readers to grow their value.