The Last Murder at the End of the World by Stuart Turton is a masterful blend of dystopian sci-fi and classic murder mystery. Set on an idyllic Greek island, the last refuge in a world ravaged by a deadly fog, the story revolves around a murder that must be solved to prevent the island’s destruction.
Niema is one of the scientists who remembers what life was like before the fog and has set up a security barrier that ensures the island’s protection. She guarantees that every islander has a job to do, and everyone loves her.
The plot is intricate and engaging. The island’s 122 villagers and three scientists live under strict rules to ensure their survival. When one of the scientists is found murdered, the island’s security system begins to fail, threatening to let the deadly fog in. The only way of restoring the barrier is by identifying the killer and getting a confession out of them. They have just 107 hours to solve the crime before the fog sweeps in.
The twist? Everyone’s memories of the night of the murder have been wiped, making the investigation even more challenging.
Turton’s writing is both imaginative and thought-provoking, exploring themes of survival, memory, and the nature of existence. The setting is vividly described, immersing readers in the island’s unique environment. The high stakes and constant tension keep readers on the edge of their seats. The characters are well-developed, each with their own secrets and motivations, adding depth to the mystery.
Having read both of Turton’s previous books (The Seven Deaths of Evelyn Hardcastle and The Devil and the Dark Water) I can see some similarities with them and this book, which is no bad thing.
Overall, The Last Murder at the End of the World is a compelling and thought-provoking read that will appeal to fans of both science fiction and mystery and I recommend it.
© Reggie 2025
