The McMasters Conservatory for the Applied Arts isn’t your typical educational institution. Nestled in an undisclosed location, it offers a rigorous curriculum in the art of “deletion”—a euphemism for murder. This exclusive academy trains aspiring “deletists” in a range of homicidal techniques, from herbicide to forgery and even “eroticide.” Admission is highly selective, with the fate of rejected applicants shrouded in mystery. Prospective students must justify their proposed “thesis” (their chosen murder) according to The Four Enquiries: 1. Is this murder necessary? 2. Have you given your target every last chance to redeem themselves? 3. What innocent person might suffer by your actions? 4. Will this deletion improve the life of others?
This darkly humorous premise forms the backbone of Rupert Holmes’s Murder Your Employer: The McMasters Guide to Homicide. Presented as a handbook penned by Dean Harbinger Harrow, the novel follows three graduating students—Cliff Iverson, an aeronautics engineer; Gemma Lindley, a hospital employee; and Dulcie Mown (alias Doria Maye, a Hollywood diva)—as they navigate the Conservatory’s unique curriculum and prepare to execute their sanctioned deletions of their respective employers.
The three students preparing for their “thesis” at the McMasters Conservatory.
The narrative primarily focuses on Cliff Iverson, whose story unfolds through journal entries, offering an intimate first-person perspective. The reader witnesses his journey through orientation, training, and ultimately, the execution of his meticulously planned “thesis.” The stories of Gemma Lindley and Dulcie Mown, while less detailed, provide intriguing counterpoints to Cliff’s experience, showcasing the diverse motivations and methodologies of McMasters’ students.
A page from Cliff Iverson’s journal detailing his experiences at the McMasters Conservatory.
Set in the 1950s, the novel evokes a distinct atmosphere, blending the world of academia with the chilling undercurrent of sanctioned homicide. The author deftly explores the dynamics of the Conservatory, complete with its internal rivalries, political maneuvering, and the ever-present ethical dilemma of justified killing. The mystery surrounding Cliff’s anonymous sponsor adds another layer of intrigue, keeping the reader guessing until the very end.
While the novel excels in its creative premise and character development, the pacing can feel uneven. The first half, rich in detail and world-building, occasionally slows the narrative down. However, the pace quickens considerably in the second half as the graduates embark on their individual projects, culminating in a thrilling climax.
The training grounds where students practice their “deletion” techniques.
Holmes’s dark humor is a consistent highlight, providing a much-needed counterbalance to the grim subject matter. The juxtaposition of academic rigor and homicidal intent creates a unique and compelling narrative tension. The novel’s exploration of moral ambiguity, the nature of revenge, and the potential consequences of one’s actions adds depth and complexity to the story.
Dean Harbinger Harrow, the author of the McMasters Guide to Homicide.
The illustrations by Anna Louizos, though sparse, perfectly capture the novel’s tone and atmosphere. Their inclusion adds a visual dimension to the story, further immersing the reader in the world of the McMasters Conservatory. A more generous use of these illustrations would have enhanced the reading experience even further.
The audio narration by Neil Patrick Harris and Simon Vance elevates the novel to another level. Their performances bring the characters to life, adding nuance and depth to the dialogue and narrative. Their distinct voices perfectly complement the contrasting personalities of the protagonists, making the listening experience truly immersive.
The audiobook narrated by Neil Patrick Harris and Simon Vance.
Murder Your Employer: The McMasters Guide to Homicide is a darkly comic and thought-provoking exploration of the human capacity for both good and evil. Rupert Holmes’s ingenious premise, coupled with his skillful writing and the superb audio narration, makes for a captivating and memorable reading experience. The novel is a testament to the power of creativity and the enduring appeal of stories that challenge our perceptions of morality and justice.
In conclusion, Murder Your Employer is a unique and engaging novel that successfully blends dark humor, academic satire, and a thrilling mystery. While the pacing may occasionally falter, the novel’s strengths lie in its creative premise, compelling characters, and thought-provoking exploration of moral ambiguity. It’s a must-read for fans of dark comedy and anyone who enjoys a story that challenges conventional storytelling. This novel is sure to leave a lasting impression, prompting reflection on the nature of revenge, the complexities of human relationships, and the blurry lines between justice and retribution.
