"Give Me Death" by Isabel Briggs Myers is her follow-up novel to her phenomenally successful debut novel "Murder Yet to Come."
Originally published in 1934, Give Me Death is a gripping mystery novel that delves into the psychological depths of human nature and the dark side of familial bonds. The story revolves around the tragic and puzzling case of the Darneil family. As each member of this seemingly prosperous family meets a sudden and mysterious death, the narrative unravels a web of intrigue, secrets, and deception.
Myers, best known for co-creating the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator, utilizes her keen understanding of personality types to craft complex characters whose motivations and inner struggles drive the plot forward.
The protagonist, a perceptive and determined investigator, must navigate a maze of clues and red herrings to uncover the truth behind the deaths. A family friend, the playwright Peter Jerningham (he solved Myers' last murder story), is on the case, along with his faithful Watson (his male secretary Mac). For mystery fans who like most of all to be surprised (and fairly), this is good vintage stuff indeed.
As the investigation deepens, themes of identity, mental illness, and the impact of societal pressures emerge, making Give Me Death not just a compelling mystery, but also a profound exploration of the human psyche.
The novel's atmospheric tension and psychological insight keep readers on the edge of their seats, culminating in a climax that is both shocking and thought-provoking. Give Me Death is a testament to Myers' literary skill and her ability to weave psychological complexity into the fabric of a thrilling mystery.
One review from 1934 declared of Give Me Death that the novel was "notable not only for its tense situations and its admirable character drawing, but also for a fine literary quality that sets it apart from all but the very best examples of recent mystery fiction."
