When it comes to the best dark humour books, "Exposed" by Paul Ilett stands out as an engaging murder mystery thriller that is interwoven with a vein of dark humour that makes it an unputdownable read. Following the success of his 2014 hit "Exposé", the author plunges us back into a world where the lines between right, wrong, and hilarious are blurred in a brilliant way.

Valerie Pierce is a character with a complex past, who sets the stage for this dark humour comic book. Once a firebrand columnist for the controversial Daily Ear, Valerie seeks to reinvent herself. She aims to transition from a scandal-stirring journalist to a more moderate and thoughtful commentator, repairing bridges with her estranged family along the way. But life, as always, has other plans.

The plot thickens in this murder mystery thriller when Valerie's former colleagues start dropping like flies. Every three days, at 9 pm, another connection to the Daily Ear meets their end. It's a pattern too precise to be coincidental, and Valerie, with her sharp journalist's instinct, senses a serial killer at work.

But how did Valerie come to know about this serial killer? This question lies at the heart of "Exposed". Her journey to this realization is not just about connecting the dots of a series of grisly murders; it's about Valerie's journey inward. She reflects on her past actions, her relationships, and the enemies she's made along the way, all of which are crucial to understanding the killer's pattern.

The novel truly shines as one of the best dark humour books as it weaves in its comedic elements. The tension of the murder mystery thriller books is beautifully balanced with a darkly comic perspective. Ilett's skill lies in his ability to make us chuckle at the absurdities of life, even when the situation is as grim as a serial killer on the loose.

Valerie's decision to seek help from her nemesis, Adam Jaymes, adds another layer to this dark humour comic book. Jaymes, a gay TV actor, is not just any enemy – he's someone who has harbored a lifetime of grudges against Valerie. Their unlikely alliance is a source of both tension and dark comedy, as they navigate their complicated history to focus on the task at hand.

"Exposed" does not just stand out among the best dark humour books for its plot but also for its character development. Valerie's transformation from a ruthless journalist to someone seeking redemption gives the story an emotional depth that is often missing in dark humour comic books. This depth is crucial in a genre where characters can sometimes feel one-dimensional.

One of the key strengths of "Exposed" as one of the best dark humour books is its setting. London's foggy, dimly-lit streets create an atmosphere ripe for a murder mystery thriller. The city becomes a character in itself, with its history and personality adding to the novel's suspense.

The novel also excels in its pacing. As a murder mystery thriller, "Exposed" keeps readers on the edge of their seats. Each clue, each revelation, is timed perfectly to maintain suspense while providing enough comic relief to keep the narrative engaging and not overwhelmingly dark.

Moreover, Ilett’s incorporation of social commentary sets "Exposed" apart from typical dark humour comic books. The novel doesn't shy away from addressing the consequences of sensational journalism and the impact it has on people's lives. This aspect itself adds a layer of realism to the narrative, grounding the dark humour and suspense in something that is palpable and relevant.

In Conclusion

Paul Ilett makes "Exposed" a standout addition to the best dark humour books. It is the kind of murder mystery thriller that does not just entertain but also urges readers to think. The novel’s blend of suspense, comedy, and social commentary makes it a must-read for fans of the genre. Valerie’s journey, from discovering the existence of a serial killer to confronting her past, is as thrilling as it is thought-provoking. The dark humour included throughout the narrative provides us with a unique lens through which to view the often-grim realities of life.

Is "Exposed" just a story about uncovering a murderer? Nope, it is more about unmasking the truths that we often hide from ourselves. For anyone who is searching for dark humour comic books that are as funny as they are fierce, "Exposed" is undoubtedly an excellent choice.

"Exposed" by Paul Ilett is available now for readers to purchase on Amazon in kindle, paperback, and hardcover formats.