The Review

From the first page to the last, Lenny Marks Gets Away with Murder is an unforgettable journey into the heart of a woman learning to embrace the world—and herself—despite a traumatic past. Kerryn Mayne’s debut is a remarkable blend of humor, heartbreak, and hope, seamlessly exploring themes of resilience, neurodiversity, and the complexities of human connection.

Lenny Marks, a socially awkward and neurodiverse primary school teacher, is as endearing as she is unique. Her tightly structured life—biking home at 4 PM, playing Scrabble with an imaginary Monica Geller, and meticulously arranging her 36 copies of The Hobbit—paints a vivid picture of a woman who’s built a fortress of routine to protect herself from the chaos of her past. When a letter from the parole board forces her to confront the suppressed memories of her childhood, Lenny’s carefully controlled world begins to unravel.

Mayne’s writing is nothing short of masterful. She invites us into Lenny’s mind with tender precision, capturing her struggles, quirks, and triumphs with authenticity and sensitivity. Lenny’s coping mechanisms, like breaking down words to calm intrusive thoughts, are portrayed with a creativity that draws readers closer to her world. It’s impossible not to root for Lenny as she navigates the complexities of social interactions, builds new relationships, and ultimately learns to trust herself and others.

The supporting cast—Ned, Kirra, Fay, and others—adds depth and warmth to the narrative. Each character is beautifully rendered, offering a sense of community and belonging that contrasts poignantly with Lenny’s initial isolation. The novel’s portrayal of kindness and understanding as transformative forces is deeply moving.

While the story tackles heavy topics like trauma, domestic abuse, and loss, Mayne handles these issues with care and respect, weaving them into a narrative that is as uplifting as it is poignant. The mystery surrounding Lenny’s past is skillfully unraveled, keeping the reader engaged and emotionally invested until the very end.

Fans of Eleanor Oliphant Is Completely Fine and The Maid will find a kindred spirit in Lenny Marks, but Mayne’s debut stands firmly on its own merits. Lenny is a heroine who stays with you long after the final page—a testament to Mayne’s extraordinary storytelling.

If you’re looking for a book that will make you laugh, cry, and cheer for the triumph of the human spirit, Lenny Marks Gets Away with Murder is a must-read. Kerryn Mayne is a talent to watch, and I can’t wait to see what she writes next. Five glowing stars for this heartwarming, thought-provoking, and utterly enchanting debut!

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Short Review (AKA TLDR)

“Lenny Marks Gets Away with Murder” is nothing like I expected it to be when I was approved to read this novel. Kerryn Mayne’s debut novel is an absolute treat. Do not let the title fool you, this is hardly a mystery thriller: which makes the twists even greater.

Lenny is a 30 year old, neurodiverse school teacher still coping from a traumatic childhood through a rigorously structured lifestyle. However, when a letter from the parole board is delivered to her (after very carefully trying to ensure no one knows her actual home address), Lenny’s live begins to unravel.

So often are neurodiverse characters used in Mystery/Thrillers as a means to be “unreliable.” Mayne’s writing of Lenny as a neurodiverse character is incredibly lifelike, and relatable. From the use of alcohol to make Lenny more outgoing, to Lenny not realizing her friends, and the boy she kind of likes, actually like her.

Though the story tackles heavy topics, I would still classify this one as a light read. Though I understand how it could be triggering to others.