Not a Happy Family by Shari Lapena is a gripping thriller that centers around the bitter rivalry within the wealthy, influential Mueller family. The story begins with the mysterious death of the family's patriarch, Alfred Mueller, who is found at the bottom of the stairs in his luxurious home. As the novel unfolds, it becomes clear that this is not a simple accident, and the Mueller family's dark secrets start to unravel. The narrative introduces the three Mueller siblings: Roberta, the eldest, is a successful lawyer who has always felt the weight of her father's expectations. Melanie, the middle child, is a struggling artist with a tumultuous past, and youngest brother, Gary, is a failed entrepreneur with a penchant for get-rich-quick schemes. Each sibling has their own reasons to despise their late father, who was known for his manipulative and cruel behavior. As the police investigate Alfred's death, the family's long-simmering tensions and rivalries come to the forefront. The siblings start to suspect each other, and the story takes a turn when it becomes apparent that one of them might be responsible for their father's demise. The novel explores themes of greed, jealousy, and the destructive nature of family dynamics. With the family's reputation at stake and a potential inheritance on the line, the Muellers must confront their shared traumatic past and the lies they've told to protect themselves. As the truth behind Alfred's death is slowly revealed, the story builds to a shocking conclusion, leaving readers questioning the true nature of family loyalty and the lengths people will go to secure their own futures. This captivating mystery keeps readers engaged until the very end, as they try to unravel the complex web of lies and motivations within the Mueller family.