I am a huge Elly Griffiths fan. I’ve read all of the Ruth Galloway Mysteries over the years and enjoyed them immensely. I feel like I know the characters and the archaeology is a bonus as Griffiths does such extensive research into the past. That’s why I picked up this book.
To begin with, whoever formatted this book called it “A Ruth Galloway Mystery” on the inside title page. It’s not. That made me feel tricked. I think HarperCollins could have done a better job of proofing. I’m not sure if it’s part of “The Brighton Mysteries” or something entirely its own. There are a trio of characters who work together as a team of sleuths though only two of them formed the K and F agency because of a) their last names which I honestly can’t remember and b) F and K looked too much like F*K (cute little joke that one.)
Right from the beginning, there are two many names. Our three key sleuths (84-year-old Edwin, the gorgeous Ukrainian Natalka, and her boyfriend and former monk, Benedict.) Then there’s Natalka’s mother who lives with them and her brother who’s gone off to fight in the Ukraine. After that, it became such a jumble I could barely keep up. Also, there is a detective, Harbinder, who seems way too friendly with Natalka.
I started by writing a list of five of their cases—all which have multiple names. It might help you to know that Edwin presents his own list on page 137 (if you can keep it together that long.) The interesting part for me, which may be of interest to you, is that most of the victims are either part of a book club or writers who attended a writing retreat (which Edwin and Benedict attend to do some sleuthing.) I found the retreat particularly annoying. As a writer, I detest (that’s the word) being tasked with writing prompts like “If Only I Hadn’t . . . ” This one is significant to the story. Also, why would I ever want to go to a writing retreat and write with a strange partner. All they seem to do is socialize and eat and they have to prep meals. Yikes! Anyway, beyond the annoying retreat, I really lost interest trying to sort out all of these people who are names minus personalities as it’s the kind of book with no character-building. I stayed with it until the end when, wouldn’t you know, the list multiplies again when their parents start getting knocked off.
I hate giving poor reviews and I wanted to like this book but I’m feeling a little like using “vituperative” language at the moment. Yes, that word is used. Also, the actual motives for the murders seems a little far-fetched. I can’t tell you why as that would lead to spoilers and I hope you’ll give this book a chance. Just because it didn’t work for me doesn’t mean it won’t work for you. Just be prepared to draw sociograms on your bedroom walls. Sorry, Elly Griffiths, please write us another real Ruth Galloway Mystery.
