Ron K. (WhidbeyIslander) - , reviewed on 2/5/2022 + 691 more book reviews

Not particularly a better book from Penny. Still written well with some snappy dialogue, but too long and drawn out, and too many instances of Gamache and his wife and associates musing about âwhat would I do?â if they were in the same situation as the father of the missing woman.

The solution to the mystery was unsatisfying, since so many of the people involved were lying or withholding information that Gamache miraculously finally infers the meanings of. Also, the 10-page recounting of the government officials meeting to discuss options about the flooding was boring and unnecessary (and why was the Surete Homicide Department involved in the discussions?) The flooding subsides and has little to do with the story except to facilitate one of those annoying coincidences that move plots along.

Also, please move on from that ambush in the factory from years ago; I have. Although her cast of characters in Three Pines still hold some interest, Clara's art trauma was a bit boring as well. Especially since we never see the miniatures (or her other works) in question. Perhaps the series has run its course.

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