The Family Game

A Novel

By: Catherine Steadman

Narrated by: Catherine Steadman

“A powerful family and a deadly game. Be prepared for a nail-biting, roller-coaster of a ride” (B. A. Paris, author of Behind Closed Doors), from the New York Times bestselling author of Something in the Water, Mr. Nobody, and The Disappearing Act

“The Holbecks are what you might come up with if you took the Roys from Succession and blended them with the Murdochs, the Macbeths, and the Borgias. . . . Let the fun begin!”—The New York Times Book Review (Editors’ Choice)

THE RULES
1. Listen carefully
2. Do your research
3. Trust no one
4. Run for your life

It’s the holiday season and Harriet Reed, a novelist on the brink of literary stardom, is newly engaged to Edward Holbeck, the heir of an extremely powerful family. And even though Edward has long tried to sever ties with them, news of the couple’s upcoming marital bliss has the Holbecks inching back into their lives with one invite after another.

As Harriet is drawn into their lavish world, the family seems perfectly welcoming . . . even if some of their traditions, like a “Christmas demon” called Krampus, seem creepy at best. So when Edward’s father, Robert, hands Harriet a tape of a book he’s been working on, she is desperate to listen.

But as she presses play, it’s clear that this isn’t just a novel. It’s a confession.

A confession to a grisly crime. A murder. And, suddenly, the game is in motion.

Feeling isolated and confused, Harriet must work out if this is part of a plan to test her loyalty or something far darker. What is it that Robert sees in her? Why give her the power to destroy everything?

This might be a game to the Holbeck family—but losing could still prove deadly.

READY OR NOT, HERE THEY COME . . .

©2022 Catherine Steadman (P)2022 Random House Audio

Critic reviews

“The Holbecks are what you might come up with if you took the Roys from Succession and blended them with the Murdochs, the Macbeths, and the Borgias. . . . The mysteries accrue, as does our admiration for Steadman, whose gift for invention only increases with each novel. . . . Let the fun begin!.”—The New York Times Book Review (Editors’ Choice)

“Both sharply modern and timeless, with strains of King Lear, Dickens, and P.D. James’s postwar holiday chillers.”—Flynn Berry, The Washington Post

“[A] terrifically twisty thriller.”—Good Housekeeping (UK)

Good twisty and creepy psych thriller

I love Catherine Steadman's writing and narration. The story was unique and like all of her previous books I never suspected what she reveals at the end, and THAT is what I love about her writing. Her narration is calm and cool, just above a whisper, which always pulls me in to make sure I don't miss something crucial. Doesn't matter, I always miss it anyway. Am looking forward to the next one!

Perfection

I have listened to over 600 books on audible. I think this may be the first review I have ever written because I feel compelled to say how good this book is. It’s hands down the best of its kind that I have ever listened to. Every single word is perfection. And the narration by Catherine is as good as her writing. It’s an absolute must listen!!! It’s just so good.

Soooo good!

What a screwy family! That said this is an atmospheric, well plotted story that lives up to the hype. READ THIS!

best book I've listened to in a while!

It had a fun twist and a fresh storyline. I really enjoyed this book!

Good but meh

I’m not sure what I was expecting, I love Catherine Steaman’s voice and other novels. I’ve actually been waiting for this book to come out but it felt like something was missing. Don’t get me wrong, the story is beautifully written, so descriptive, and hard to put down but I think some of the characters fell a little flat for their role in the story. Definitely worth a listen though, especially if you’ve enjoyed Catherine’s other books.

Fabulous!

I would have given more stars. It was a page turner from the beginning.

Another gem

I have loved all of Ms. Steadman’s books. The Family Game does not disappoint! I had no idea until the very, very end.

Excellent from S1tart to Finish

Enjoyed listening to this novel. the twist was not expected, which made it very satisfying.

Amazing!

Absolutely enjoyed this book, my daughter insisted I listen to it. The narration and story keeps you hooked the entire book.

Psychological thriller

This was actually what I call a psychological thriller. Lots of intrigue. I loved it. Not solely about the act of murder which seems to be what most are about. The characters were so interesting and different. I could have listened to it start to finish, but I really didn’t want it to end.