Another fun installation of this rag-tag crew of crime-solving octogenarians. Not my favourite of the four, and I felt that at times it was too predictable, but overall a solid new story for our four sleuths. As usual, Joyce is the funniest, freshest, most honest of the four characters. It was, however, nice to have more time with Ibrahim. Although, I felt his revelatory story was sort of shoe-horned in and not given the full attention and care it deserved. I also enjoyed this novels take on life and dignity. Who has the right to decide when a person may seek death? With diseases that rob the mind and body, how can you refuse the wishes of those afflicted (even as your heart breaks at their loss)? This was the most touching aspect of all of the novels, the deep love between Elizabeth and her husband Stephen. And the way that this story unfolded was fitting for Elizabeth's need to release her hold on every situation. It helped to develop her character and the beautiful imagery of the little fox was poignant for their group and her love. Many characters are once again in on the action. Our two favourite detectives are back, Chris and Donna, but this time they are working with the group outside of the law. This added intrigue for these two characters who are usually shackled by their work. They also must hide their discoveries strategically from a new upper level crime investigator, who is super keen on the drug business. Connie, the drug dealer who was put in jail by Chris and Ron, still has a large network of informants and partners, and Ibrahim continues to visit her as her psychologist. Bogdan, the gruff anti-hero of the story, is still showering Donna with love and helping the group in all the shady aspects of their research. He is friends with Stephen and cares for him as though her were his father. But, there were also some new characters, maybe too many, adding tons of melodrama and back and forth. The main storyline was good, focused and interesting (even if I figured it all out early on). I am excited for the next installment as I love these four characters and how they have developed in these four books. They have solidified into a family, who care deeply for each other and work tirelessly to protect each other and to find out the truth. This book Joyce was thrown into the leader role, as Elizabeth was busy with her husband, and proved to be just as intimidating, just as worthy of upholding their group's ideals and putting into action some of their most daring schemes. Highly recommend this series, if you have not already picked it up from all the ranting I have done previously. What may feel like a cozy mystery is actually full of hidden depths, the power of the elderly, and the strength of found family.
0 Comments
Your comment will be posted after it is approved.
Leave a Reply. |
Currently ReadingGraphic Novel
Romance Audiobook
Archives
April 2024
|