I am going to start sounding like a broken record here when I anoint each new novel in the Flavia de Luce series as "the best so far" but I truly believe that about this newest one -- I Am Half-Sick of Shadows. This was Flavia at her best--slightly more mature with a more believable "voice"--and the murder took place right inside of Buckshaw this time! The winter setting was timely and I could truly feel the deep chill of the east wing of the house.
As is my new method with series, rather than worrying about spoilers and such when reviewing the plot, I am simply going to try and convince you to read this series from the start.
So, begin by reading my review of The Sweetness at the Bottom of the Pie where I said
"Bradley has crafted a young detective that is bright, impetuous and strong".And then, if you aren't convinced, see what I had to say about The Weed that Strings the Hangman's Bag --
This book was everything I wanted it to be and more. I think it's possible that I like it better than the first!Still not convinced? Well, the third book, A Red Herring Without Mustard, was one I couldn't put down --
I read almost the entire 400 page book in one day. I didn't get the laundry done. I didn't make it to the grocery store. I took the book out to read during brunch.If you're a fan of unique characters, old manor houses and a little bit of poison, you can't go wrong with these books. Plus, the colorful series will look wonderful on your shelves! And if you've already devoured the series like I have, why not host a Murder Mystery Tea Party at Buckshaw?
Counting down the days until the next story, Seeds of Antiquity,
K
I didn't like the second book, but I'm looking forward to grabbing this one for my RIP reads this coming fall! It's become a tradition for me ot read one of these during RIP!
ReplyDeleteI really need to get back tot his series. I have only read the first one.
ReplyDeleteI really liked this one too!!
ReplyDeleteKicking myself that I haven't gotten to this one yet. I will read it soon, but am still riding this wave of SF reading that my whims are taking me on. So glad to hear that it is another winner.
ReplyDeleteAmanda - It's very handy that they are being published at a quick pace!
ReplyDeleteKailana - Yes! Get back to it. :)
Jenners - Awesome! We finally have a series we can enjoy together. :)
Carl - Once you get to it, you'll rush through it so save it for a time when you need a pick-me-up!
I have not read any of these, but it sounds like I need to!! Adding them to the list!
ReplyDeleteTif - I think you need to as well. And they're quick reads so you can fit them in between heftier tomes!
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