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Flavia de Luce #9
The Grave's a Fine and Private Place
Sunny skies, sleep water...and a sinister corpse
Flavia is enjoying the summer, spending her days punting along the river with her reluctant family. Languishing in boredom, she drags a slack hand in the water, and catches her fingers in the open mouth of a drowned corpse.
Brought to shore, the dead man is found to be dressed in blue silk with ribbons at the knee, and wearing a single red ballet slipper.
Flavia needs to put her super-sleuthing skills to the test to investigate the murder of three gossips in the local church, and to keep her sisters out of danger. But what could possibly connect the son of an executed killer, a far too canny police constable, a travelling circus, and the publican's mysteriously talented wife?
Flavia is enjoying the summer, spending her days punting along the river with her reluctant family. Languishing in boredom, she drags a slack hand in the water, and catches her fingers in the open mouth of a drowned corpse.
Brought to shore, the dead man is found to be dressed in blue silk with ribbons at the knee, and wearing a single red ballet slipper.
Flavia needs to put her super-sleuthing skills to the test to investigate the murder of three gossips in the local church, and to keep her sisters out of danger. But what could possibly connect the son of an executed killer, a far too canny police constable, a travelling circus, and the publican's mysteriously talented wife?
368 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 30, 2018
1531 people are currently reading
15535 people want to read
About the author
Alan Bradley
33 books8,557 followersLibrarian Note: There is more than one author in the Goodreads database with this name.
With an education in electronic engineering, Alan worked at numerous radio and television stations in Ontario, and at Ryerson Polytechnical Institute (now Ryerson University) in Toronto, before becoming Director of Television Engineering in the media centre at the University of Saskatchewan in Saskatoon, where he remained for 25 years before taking early retirement to write in 1994.
He became the first President of the Saskatoon Writers, and a founding member of the Saskatchewan Writers Guild. His children's stories were published in The Canadian Children's Annual, and his short story, Meet Miss Mullen, was the first recipient of the Saskatchewan Writers Guild Award for Children's Literature.
For a number of years, he regularly taught Script Writing and Television Production courses at the University of Saskatchewan (Extension Division) at both beginner and advanced levels.
His fiction has been published in literary journals and he has given many public readings in schools and galleries. His short stories have been broadcast by CBC Radio.
He was a founding member of The Casebook of Saskatoon, a society devoted to the study of Sherlock Holmes and Sherlockian writings. Here, he met the late Dr. William A.S. Sarjeant, with whom he collaborated on their classic book, Ms Holmes of Baker Street. This work put forth the startling theory that the Great Detective was a woman, and was greeted upon publication with what has been described as "a firestorm of controversy".
The release of Ms. Holmes resulted in national media coverage, with the authors embarking upon an extensive series of interviews, radio and television appearances, and a public debate at Toronto's Harbourfront. His lifestyle and humorous pieces have appeared in The Globe and Mail and The National Post.
His book The Shoebox Bible (McClelland and Stewart, 2006) has been compared with Tuesdays With Morrie and Mr. God, This is Anna.
In July of 2007 he won the Debut Dagger Award of the (British) Crimewriter's Association for his novel The Sweetness at the Bottom of the Pie, the first of a series featuring eleven year old Flavia de Luce, which has since won the 2009 Agatha Award for Best First Novel,the 2010 Dilys Award,the Spotted Owl Award, and the 2010 Arthur Ellis Award for Best First Novel.
The Sweetness at the Bottom of the Pie has also been nominated for the Macavity, the Barry, and the Arthur Awards.
Alan Bradley lives in Malta with his wife Shirley and two calculating cats.
With an education in electronic engineering, Alan worked at numerous radio and television stations in Ontario, and at Ryerson Polytechnical Institute (now Ryerson University) in Toronto, before becoming Director of Television Engineering in the media centre at the University of Saskatchewan in Saskatoon, where he remained for 25 years before taking early retirement to write in 1994.
He became the first President of the Saskatoon Writers, and a founding member of the Saskatchewan Writers Guild. His children's stories were published in The Canadian Children's Annual, and his short story, Meet Miss Mullen, was the first recipient of the Saskatchewan Writers Guild Award for Children's Literature.
For a number of years, he regularly taught Script Writing and Television Production courses at the University of Saskatchewan (Extension Division) at both beginner and advanced levels.
His fiction has been published in literary journals and he has given many public readings in schools and galleries. His short stories have been broadcast by CBC Radio.
He was a founding member of The Casebook of Saskatoon, a society devoted to the study of Sherlock Holmes and Sherlockian writings. Here, he met the late Dr. William A.S. Sarjeant, with whom he collaborated on their classic book, Ms Holmes of Baker Street. This work put forth the startling theory that the Great Detective was a woman, and was greeted upon publication with what has been described as "a firestorm of controversy".
The release of Ms. Holmes resulted in national media coverage, with the authors embarking upon an extensive series of interviews, radio and television appearances, and a public debate at Toronto's Harbourfront. His lifestyle and humorous pieces have appeared in The Globe and Mail and The National Post.
His book The Shoebox Bible (McClelland and Stewart, 2006) has been compared with Tuesdays With Morrie and Mr. God, This is Anna.
In July of 2007 he won the Debut Dagger Award of the (British) Crimewriter's Association for his novel The Sweetness at the Bottom of the Pie, the first of a series featuring eleven year old Flavia de Luce, which has since won the 2009 Agatha Award for Best First Novel,the 2010 Dilys Award,the Spotted Owl Award, and the 2010 Arthur Ellis Award for Best First Novel.
The Sweetness at the Bottom of the Pie has also been nominated for the Macavity, the Barry, and the Arthur Awards.
Alan Bradley lives in Malta with his wife Shirley and two calculating cats.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 2,544 reviews
September 27, 2024
This is the ninth addition to the 'Flavia de Luce' series, set in 1950s England. You could read the book as a standalone, but for maximum enjoyment (and minimum spoilers) the series is best read in order.
Flavia de Luce is a supremely self-confident twelve-year-old girl who's deeply interested in two things: chemistry and detective work. In her young life Flavia has frequently used her scientific expertise - and native smarts - to solve murders.
*****
As the book opens, Flavia is on holiday with her two older sisters, Ophelia (Feely) and Daphne (Daffy),
and the family manservant Dogger - who's been with the de Luce clan for years.
The little group is punting down a river near the village of Volesthorpe when Flavia, trailing her hand in the water, closes her fingers over what she thinks is a fish. Delighted, Flavia pulls up the catch.....only to discover it's the corpse of a young man.
The cadaver is deposited on the shore, and - while the authorities are being summoned - Flavia takes the opportunity to carefully examine the body. She also takes a mysterious scrap of paper from one of the pockets. This is standard operating procedure for Flavia, who's always hiding evidence from the police so she can solve cases first.
The dead man is identified as Orlando Whitbread, an up-and-coming actor with the local 'Puddle Lane Little Theater.'
Orlando is the protégé of Poppy Mandrill, a once famous actress who - after losing a leg - became a director.
The dead man is best known, however, for being the son of Canon George Whitbread of Volesthorpe's 'St. Mildred's-in-the-Marsh Church.' The Canon was hanged a few years before for poisoning three female parishioners at Holy Communion.
The town's police officer, Constable J.R. Otter, quickly calls Orlando's death a drowning.....and orders Flavia to stop her nosy probing. This only heightens Flavia's suspicions, since she's SURE Orlando was poisoned. Thus, Flavia continues to vigorously pursue her inquiries, with Dogger's invaluable help. Moreover, the amateur sleuth decides to re-investigate the case of Canon Whitbread....who she thinks might have been innocent.
As Flavia flits around Volesthorpe she meets the undertaker's son, Hob Nightingale - who provides valuable information, a helping hand, and a smidge of friendship that Flavia badly needs.
In previous books, Flavia has always been at odds with her sisters, and once even doused Feely's lipstick with poison ivy. However, the girls are more mature now, and on better terms. Thus, Flavia's inquiries are greatly assisted by Daffy's extensive knowledge of literature and poetry. As for Feely, she's still vain and self-absorbed, but she plays the organ beautifully at St. Mildred's-in-the-Marsh Church. In addition, Feely's fiancé plays an important part in the story.
In the course of the tale, Flavia makes important discoveries that put her in grave danger, but she eventually discovers the truth about everything.
I enjoyed the book, which has the usual mix of interesting characters, fun science, and a creative mystery. One chapter, though - where Flavia has a 'psychic vision' of the female parishioners being poisoned - is not credible and should have been left out (IMO).
I'd recommend the book to mystery lovers, especially fans of Flavia de Luce.
You can follow my reviews at https://reviewsbybarbsaffer.blogspot....
November 27, 2017
NOTE: I won this book in a GR Giveaway in return for an honest review.
This is a bittersweet story. On the one hand, Flavia is growing up and maturing. It's wonderful to see the person she is becoming emerge. On the other hand, Flavia is changing and that's always a bit sad. Childhood is ending.
I am enjoying how the relationships between the sisters is being exposed in the last couple of books. Also, Flavia's relationship with Dogger is more focused on and it's a delight to see.
The mystery is, like always, interesting and fun. Another fun time with Flavia. I loved the chemistry experiments that were rigged up to help solve this case.
I look forward to more books in future. Flavia's future is very much at a crossroads. With her interests and abilities, she can go anywhere she wants to.
This is a bittersweet story. On the one hand, Flavia is growing up and maturing. It's wonderful to see the person she is becoming emerge. On the other hand, Flavia is changing and that's always a bit sad. Childhood is ending.
I am enjoying how the relationships between the sisters is being exposed in the last couple of books. Also, Flavia's relationship with Dogger is more focused on and it's a delight to see.
The mystery is, like always, interesting and fun. Another fun time with Flavia. I loved the chemistry experiments that were rigged up to help solve this case.
I look forward to more books in future. Flavia's future is very much at a crossroads. With her interests and abilities, she can go anywhere she wants to.
March 15, 2018
This series remains delightful. I'm a huge fan of Flavia and this, the 9th in the series, was terrific. I love how smart and precocious she is - her snark and wit, and how she employs her love and knowledge of chemistry to solve the crime. Flavia has had some hard knocks in the last few books and it was nice to see the relationship between Dogger and Flavia develop in this book.
The book's ending is the perfect set-up for where the author will take the series, and makes me excited for the next book.
The book's ending is the perfect set-up for where the author will take the series, and makes me excited for the next book.
February 6, 2018
3.5 Stars. This turned out to be not my favorite Flavia mystery. She seems to be borderline ghoul at times! Don't get me wrong I still love her-she is changing though or maturing maybe. Her knowledge of chemistry and other esoteric information is incredible, a child prodigy in essence. Flavia has a lot of discernment, which coupled with Dogger's, they are a fantastic detective duo. Dogger really shines in this story, his vast knowledge is also incredible. Her relationship with her sisters is mellowing out a bit which is part of the maturing I'm sure. I look forward to the next one with great anticipation as always.
February 9, 2018
2.5 stars. Just above OK. I love Alan Bradley's series, but this one seemed to drag on and on for most of the book. Too many random events and relationships. I couldn't understand how Flavia ever came up with her conclusions, based on what happenined in the story. The only part I enjoyed was the personal side to the story, Dogger's evolution and the family dynamics between the sisters.
March 18, 2018
“possibilities are so much more thrilling than certainties”
Warning: I am going to gush.
I adore Flavia DeLuce!! Honestly this now 14 year old precocious chemist is someone I wish were a friend or maybe I could be her brilliant uncle...maybe my favorite character in all fiction! In a word, delightful!
A couple of my favorite quotes from this series...
"Anyone who knew the word slattern was worth cultivating as a friend."
"Tell them we may not be praying with them," Father told the Vicar, "but we are at least not actively praying against them."
"It is not unknown for fathers with a brace of daughters to reel off their names in order of birth when summoning the youngest, and I had long ago become accustomed to being called 'Ophelia Daphne Flavia, damn it.'
"She consumed books like a whale eats krill."
"You never know what you're getting into when you stick your nose in other people's rubbish."
Start this fabulous series with the brilliant and Edgar Award winning,"The Sweetness at the Bottom of the Pie."
I just finished "The Grave's a Fine and Private Place" and thought it was a dazzling 5 star book. I was actually saddened when it was over. My highest of recommendations! This one is truly a great and fun read!
Warning: I am going to gush.
I adore Flavia DeLuce!! Honestly this now 14 year old precocious chemist is someone I wish were a friend or maybe I could be her brilliant uncle...maybe my favorite character in all fiction! In a word, delightful!
A couple of my favorite quotes from this series...
"Anyone who knew the word slattern was worth cultivating as a friend."
"Tell them we may not be praying with them," Father told the Vicar, "but we are at least not actively praying against them."
"It is not unknown for fathers with a brace of daughters to reel off their names in order of birth when summoning the youngest, and I had long ago become accustomed to being called 'Ophelia Daphne Flavia, damn it.'
"She consumed books like a whale eats krill."
"You never know what you're getting into when you stick your nose in other people's rubbish."
Start this fabulous series with the brilliant and Edgar Award winning,"The Sweetness at the Bottom of the Pie."
I just finished "The Grave's a Fine and Private Place" and thought it was a dazzling 5 star book. I was actually saddened when it was over. My highest of recommendations! This one is truly a great and fun read!
March 4, 2024
4.5 stars
short review for busy readers: An excellent Flavia. Far more focused than usual due to the non-Bishop's Lacey setting, but for that reason, also more character revealing. Sisters Daffy and Feely get much more story time and active roles. Mystery is just as simple/not simple as always, as is the quality of writing.
in detail:
Flavia is now undeniably on the brink of womanhood.
She's pulling a lot of her old tricks because she still can get away with them, but new ideas and interests are slowly creeping in. Such as: she's starting to take much more of an interest in male handsomeness (I'd actually thought Bradley might make her lesbian or bi) and in the social graces than she did.
Flavia is changing...or is she just becoming more refined?
In this episode, the de Luces are on holiday in a small, picturesque village where a famous triple poisoning took place (chosen by Dogger for that very reason).
Flavia wouldn't be Flavia if she didn't randomly discover a fresh corpse upon her arrival in the village and set about sticking her nose in everywhere -- much to the chagrin of the villagers who'd like to keep their secrets well under wraps, thank you very much.
Due to Flavia not being on familiar territory and far away from her lab at Buckshaw, she has to be more creative and quick on her feet than usual...and suffer the help of her older sisters at unexpected times, which she is not used to and makes her both grateful, and nervous.
Because of the setting, this installment is far more narrowly focused on the crime(s) without hardly any extra gravy. The mystery itself is about a 6-7 on the Ease of Solving Scale® with the final reveal being more than unbelievable.
No matter. The romp is enjoyable, the descriptive writing a true pleasure and Flavia (and her family) are in top form.
short review for busy readers: An excellent Flavia. Far more focused than usual due to the non-Bishop's Lacey setting, but for that reason, also more character revealing. Sisters Daffy and Feely get much more story time and active roles. Mystery is just as simple/not simple as always, as is the quality of writing.
in detail:
Flavia is now undeniably on the brink of womanhood.
She's pulling a lot of her old tricks because she still can get away with them, but new ideas and interests are slowly creeping in. Such as: she's starting to take much more of an interest in male handsomeness (I'd actually thought Bradley might make her lesbian or bi) and in the social graces than she did.
Flavia is changing...or is she just becoming more refined?
In this episode, the de Luces are on holiday in a small, picturesque village where a famous triple poisoning took place (chosen by Dogger for that very reason).
Flavia wouldn't be Flavia if she didn't randomly discover a fresh corpse upon her arrival in the village and set about sticking her nose in everywhere -- much to the chagrin of the villagers who'd like to keep their secrets well under wraps, thank you very much.
Due to Flavia not being on familiar territory and far away from her lab at Buckshaw, she has to be more creative and quick on her feet than usual...and suffer the help of her older sisters at unexpected times, which she is not used to and makes her both grateful, and nervous.
Because of the setting, this installment is far more narrowly focused on the crime(s) without hardly any extra gravy. The mystery itself is about a 6-7 on the Ease of Solving Scale® with the final reveal being more than unbelievable.
No matter. The romp is enjoyable, the descriptive writing a true pleasure and Flavia (and her family) are in top form.
February 13, 2018
Certainly, for me anyway, more entertaining than the last #8 was. But it lost an entire star by not having the plot make any logical or practical sense whosoever.
If you like snarky thoughts and self-evaluations at a speed of multiples a second per every situation or interaction with/ re Flavia, then you will love this one. It's so long in that category that at page 300, with some of the lengthy departures into poetry and symbolism- the entire became so stretched as to be tedious.
No Gladys at all! A sacrilege. And yet Dogger with a few new characters like Mrs. Palmer and Claire made the entire readable for me. All of my most loved Flavia characteristics shone the most only during the diatom and other testings portions that she managed with Dogger. Hob was just left hanging for any conclusions or after effect. HUH? And several other characters were just not set well into the continuity of the whole tale or the ending of it at all. Like the Constable- but not only one or two. Three I can think of. With all that length- why?
Much better in spirits of interchange between the sisters than the last 2 books were- but droves behind the sharpest chemistry nuance and unique eyes to what slithers all across the fields or places she roams within the Bishop's Lacey district of those first 3 Flavia books.
The jolts between Flavia "eras" are severe in this series, book to book. And now we see what is coming up next in the last paragraph here of this longish novel for the scenario of the future/ next. And I'm afraid that this series has just about lost me for its flow. It's gotten like a stand up comedian who makes the exact form of joke about 2 or 3 subjects over and over again.
If you like snarky thoughts and self-evaluations at a speed of multiples a second per every situation or interaction with/ re Flavia, then you will love this one. It's so long in that category that at page 300, with some of the lengthy departures into poetry and symbolism- the entire became so stretched as to be tedious.
No Gladys at all! A sacrilege. And yet Dogger with a few new characters like Mrs. Palmer and Claire made the entire readable for me. All of my most loved Flavia characteristics shone the most only during the diatom and other testings portions that she managed with Dogger. Hob was just left hanging for any conclusions or after effect. HUH? And several other characters were just not set well into the continuity of the whole tale or the ending of it at all. Like the Constable- but not only one or two. Three I can think of. With all that length- why?
Much better in spirits of interchange between the sisters than the last 2 books were- but droves behind the sharpest chemistry nuance and unique eyes to what slithers all across the fields or places she roams within the Bishop's Lacey district of those first 3 Flavia books.
The jolts between Flavia "eras" are severe in this series, book to book. And now we see what is coming up next in the last paragraph here of this longish novel for the scenario of the future/ next. And I'm afraid that this series has just about lost me for its flow. It's gotten like a stand up comedian who makes the exact form of joke about 2 or 3 subjects over and over again.
March 2, 2019
Rating: 3.75* of five
The Publisher Says: Flavia is enjoying the summer, spending her days punting along the river with her reluctant family. Languishing in boredom, she drags a slack hand in the water, and catches her fingers in the open mouth of a drowned corpse.
Brought to shore, the dead man is found to be dressed in blue silk with ribbons at the knee, and wearing a single red ballet slipper.
Flavia needs to put her super-sleuthing skills to the test to investigate the murder of three gossips in the local church, and to keep her sisters out of danger. But what could possibly connect the son of an executed killer, a far too canny police constable, a travelling circus, and the publican's mysteriously talented wife?
My Review: Not the best entry in the series. The subplot about the poet was underused; the subplot about the kid, Hob, was rushed through and gave nothing useful to the resolution; Carl Pendracka is mentioned but not meaningfully (being American, I suppose he was destined not to be anything except comic relief); I liked Dieter's cameo...but really, is there any point to mangling the book? It's the NINTH in a series by an 80-year-old accidental author!
The major news, at least for me, comes from the author's announcement month before last of the CBC TV series based on the books. I can't imagine how they'll make this into anything like the fun thing the reads are; somehow it seems unlikely they'll find a Flavia, but it's not my job to do any of it so good luck to 'em all.
If you're not already a series fan, don't start here. If you stalled out around book seven, As Chimney Sweepers Come to Dust, as I did, it's worth keeping on. If your stall came earlier in the series, maybe it's not for you. This book won't, in my never-humble opinion, change anyone's mind one way or another.
The Publisher Says: Flavia is enjoying the summer, spending her days punting along the river with her reluctant family. Languishing in boredom, she drags a slack hand in the water, and catches her fingers in the open mouth of a drowned corpse.
Brought to shore, the dead man is found to be dressed in blue silk with ribbons at the knee, and wearing a single red ballet slipper.
Flavia needs to put her super-sleuthing skills to the test to investigate the murder of three gossips in the local church, and to keep her sisters out of danger. But what could possibly connect the son of an executed killer, a far too canny police constable, a travelling circus, and the publican's mysteriously talented wife?
My Review: Not the best entry in the series. The subplot about the poet was underused; the subplot about the kid, Hob, was rushed through and gave nothing useful to the resolution; Carl Pendracka is mentioned but not meaningfully (being American, I suppose he was destined not to be anything except comic relief); I liked Dieter's cameo...but really, is there any point to mangling the book? It's the NINTH in a series by an 80-year-old accidental author!
The major news, at least for me, comes from the author's announcement month before last of the CBC TV series based on the books. I can't imagine how they'll make this into anything like the fun thing the reads are; somehow it seems unlikely they'll find a Flavia, but it's not my job to do any of it so good luck to 'em all.
If you're not already a series fan, don't start here. If you stalled out around book seven, As Chimney Sweepers Come to Dust, as I did, it's worth keeping on. If your stall came earlier in the series, maybe it's not for you. This book won't, in my never-humble opinion, change anyone's mind one way or another.
March 2, 2018
First Sentence: I am on my deathbed.
Flavia de Luce, her two sisters and Dogger, their loyal family servant, go on holiday to the hamlet of Volesthorpe. Drifting in a boat on the river, hand in the water, Flavia becomes snagged on what she imagines is Hemingway’s great marlin from “The Old Man and the Sea.” Even more to Flavia’s style, is the discovery that her hand caught in the mouth of a corpse. The dead man was the son of the local church’s Canon, who was hanged for poisoning three of his parishioners; the church ladies. But was the Canon really guilty? And who killed his son? What better than a murder investigation to take Flavia’s mind off her troubles?
The first thing one should remember about Flavia is that she is 14 years’ old, brilliant and highly dramatic. She is also wonderfully written by Bradley who has created the perfect voice for her, and the perfect opening. As with most series, one does best to read the books in order. However, Bradley ensured first-time readers are fully introduced to the characters, their roles, and are brought quickly up to date.
Some may find Flavia’s viewpoint a bit uncomfortable—“Most people probably never stop to think about why our burial places are so green. But if they ever did, their faces might turn the very shade of that graveyard grass… For dust thou art, and unto dust shalt thou return,” the Bible tells us. “Ashes to ashes, dust to dust,” says The Book of Common Prayer. But both of these books, having been written mostly in good taste, fail to mention either the stinking jelly or the oozing liquids and the gaseous phases through which each of us must pass on our way to the Great Beyond.” Yet for others of us, it is that perspective which makes her unique and delightful, and the way in which Flavia comes across the first body is very bit Flavia.
Bradley’s use of humor shows through in most situation, including his metaphors—“But, believe it or not, at that very instant, an idea came flying out of nowhere and landed on my head, like a pigeon on a statue of Lord Nelson.” The inclusion of rare and unusual bits of information, such as how one can cause oneself to blush, add to that which makes Bradley’s writing so delightful.
We do see changes and growth in the characters. It is nice that we see a new side of Flavia’s sister, Feeley, at the same time as does she. We realize that Dogger is, in some ways, an older and more experienced version of Flavia. Although set in the 1950s, we are made aware of how recent was WWII, and of its impact through Dogger’s incidence with PTSD. It’s nice to see him develop as a character who is coming into his own. He is observant, rather wise; a father-figure, friend and advisor to Flavia—“I love it when Dogger talked like this. It made me feel that we were partners.” Flavia is gaining some self-awareness and is maturing, yet Flavia is a character one either loves, or finds rather terrifying, or both.
In spite of the title and the humor, this is no cozy. The mystery, and the investigation, is well-plotted and executed, with red herrings and well-done suspense. Bradley always plays fair with the readers, laying out the clues as we read.
“The Grave’s a Fine and Private Place” is a captivating and delightful read, with a maturing Flavia, and a wonderful ending that leaves one very anxious for the next book.
THE GRAVE’S A FINE AND PRIVATE PLACE (Hist Mys-Flavia de Luce- England-1952) – VG+
Bradley, Alan – 9th in series
Delacorte Press, Jan 2018
Flavia de Luce, her two sisters and Dogger, their loyal family servant, go on holiday to the hamlet of Volesthorpe. Drifting in a boat on the river, hand in the water, Flavia becomes snagged on what she imagines is Hemingway’s great marlin from “The Old Man and the Sea.” Even more to Flavia’s style, is the discovery that her hand caught in the mouth of a corpse. The dead man was the son of the local church’s Canon, who was hanged for poisoning three of his parishioners; the church ladies. But was the Canon really guilty? And who killed his son? What better than a murder investigation to take Flavia’s mind off her troubles?
The first thing one should remember about Flavia is that she is 14 years’ old, brilliant and highly dramatic. She is also wonderfully written by Bradley who has created the perfect voice for her, and the perfect opening. As with most series, one does best to read the books in order. However, Bradley ensured first-time readers are fully introduced to the characters, their roles, and are brought quickly up to date.
Some may find Flavia’s viewpoint a bit uncomfortable—“Most people probably never stop to think about why our burial places are so green. But if they ever did, their faces might turn the very shade of that graveyard grass… For dust thou art, and unto dust shalt thou return,” the Bible tells us. “Ashes to ashes, dust to dust,” says The Book of Common Prayer. But both of these books, having been written mostly in good taste, fail to mention either the stinking jelly or the oozing liquids and the gaseous phases through which each of us must pass on our way to the Great Beyond.” Yet for others of us, it is that perspective which makes her unique and delightful, and the way in which Flavia comes across the first body is very bit Flavia.
Bradley’s use of humor shows through in most situation, including his metaphors—“But, believe it or not, at that very instant, an idea came flying out of nowhere and landed on my head, like a pigeon on a statue of Lord Nelson.” The inclusion of rare and unusual bits of information, such as how one can cause oneself to blush, add to that which makes Bradley’s writing so delightful.
We do see changes and growth in the characters. It is nice that we see a new side of Flavia’s sister, Feeley, at the same time as does she. We realize that Dogger is, in some ways, an older and more experienced version of Flavia. Although set in the 1950s, we are made aware of how recent was WWII, and of its impact through Dogger’s incidence with PTSD. It’s nice to see him develop as a character who is coming into his own. He is observant, rather wise; a father-figure, friend and advisor to Flavia—“I love it when Dogger talked like this. It made me feel that we were partners.” Flavia is gaining some self-awareness and is maturing, yet Flavia is a character one either loves, or finds rather terrifying, or both.
In spite of the title and the humor, this is no cozy. The mystery, and the investigation, is well-plotted and executed, with red herrings and well-done suspense. Bradley always plays fair with the readers, laying out the clues as we read.
“The Grave’s a Fine and Private Place” is a captivating and delightful read, with a maturing Flavia, and a wonderful ending that leaves one very anxious for the next book.
THE GRAVE’S A FINE AND PRIVATE PLACE (Hist Mys-Flavia de Luce- England-1952) – VG+
Bradley, Alan – 9th in series
Delacorte Press, Jan 2018
November 7, 2017
4.5 stars rounded up
After 9 books centered around this precocious main character, you know exactly what kind of story you'll be getting. But it's the familiar (but not formulaic) style and well-loved characters that make me want to return again and again to the world of Flavia de Luce.
I assume the 9th book is not going to be the first book someone picks up, but if in case you're new to the series, start with The Sweetness at the Bottom of the Pie and enjoy the adventure from the start. A spoiler from the end of the last book is coming:
I wasn't sure what to expect from this book given that Flavia's father died at the end of the previous book. What would happen to the three sisters? How would Flavia handle the loss?
The answer turned out to be a long family vacation led by Dogger, especially meant to keep Feely occupied while she waits for her postponed wedding, and a lot of British stiff-upper-lip.
As usual, Flavia quickly finds a dead body, and discovers more than one mystery in the town they're visiting. With Flavia's father gone, we get a chance to see just how much paternal and sleuthing influence Dogger has on Flavia.
Reading these books feels like getting to visit a dear friend you haven't seen in a year, you want to spend time with them for who they've already proven to be, and you want to spend time with them to see who they've become while you were apart. This book ended with a hint at what could be a truly marvelous setup for the final book of the series. If Flavia's suggestion comes to pass, then readers will easily be able to imagine the fulfilled life that Flavia and Dogger will get to carry out long after the last page.
Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for allowing me to read an early copy of this book!
After 9 books centered around this precocious main character, you know exactly what kind of story you'll be getting. But it's the familiar (but not formulaic) style and well-loved characters that make me want to return again and again to the world of Flavia de Luce.
I assume the 9th book is not going to be the first book someone picks up, but if in case you're new to the series, start with The Sweetness at the Bottom of the Pie and enjoy the adventure from the start. A spoiler from the end of the last book is coming:
I wasn't sure what to expect from this book given that Flavia's father died at the end of the previous book. What would happen to the three sisters? How would Flavia handle the loss?
The answer turned out to be a long family vacation led by Dogger, especially meant to keep Feely occupied while she waits for her postponed wedding, and a lot of British stiff-upper-lip.
As usual, Flavia quickly finds a dead body, and discovers more than one mystery in the town they're visiting. With Flavia's father gone, we get a chance to see just how much paternal and sleuthing influence Dogger has on Flavia.
Reading these books feels like getting to visit a dear friend you haven't seen in a year, you want to spend time with them for who they've already proven to be, and you want to spend time with them to see who they've become while you were apart. This book ended with a hint at what could be a truly marvelous setup for the final book of the series. If Flavia's suggestion comes to pass, then readers will easily be able to imagine the fulfilled life that Flavia and Dogger will get to carry out long after the last page.
Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for allowing me to read an early copy of this book!
March 26, 2018
Some books just make you happy because characters have become like friends or family to you.....this series is like that for me. I love Flavia and I hope to hear more from her.
December 22, 2017
Thanks, Petra!
Actual rating: 3.5 stars. Charming as ever, but part of the plot could make more sense.
Actual rating: 3.5 stars. Charming as ever, but part of the plot could make more sense.
March 21, 2018
Sigh. When is the right time to give up a long-running series? Last I heard there were only going to be nine books in the series, but this is book nine, and no end in sight*? I'm just not enjoying them like I used to. Which is weird, because I still love Flavia, her family and friends and assorted hangers-on. But the mysteries and plots just don't do it for me anymore. I find myself having a really hard time keeping my attention on them. Even in this one, where Flavia actually has help from Dogger, Daphne and even Feely, in solving the mystery! Which was new.
*Wikipedia says there will be one more book, but they could very easily extend the order again if they are still good sellers for the publisher.
This picks up six months after the events of the last book, which ended on a whammy. Flavia, Dogger, Feely, and Daffy are on vacation after having spent the last six months in mourning. It was felt (by Aunt Felicity) that time lazing about on a river would do their souls good. What it actually does is make sure that Flavia encounters yet another dead body, this time she accidentally hooks her fingers in its mouth while trailing them in the aforementioned river. I gagged a little when I listened to that part. Flavia has been obsessing over a local murderer named Canon Whitbread, and it turns out that the corpse in the river is his estranged son, Orlando. A Flavia investigation ensues from there, and because she's in an all new location, not everyone is as willing to help her or give her access to things as they would be at home in Bishop's Lacey.
I wish I could say I enjoyed this more, but I just didn't, and it makes me sad. I still love Flavia unapologetically, and enjoy what Bradley is doing with her characterization, but the plots just do not work for me, and I'm less willing to overlook it than I used to be.
I will read book ten, I think, but if there's more after that, I'm probably out.
*Wikipedia says there will be one more book, but they could very easily extend the order again if they are still good sellers for the publisher.
This picks up six months after the events of the last book, which ended on a whammy. Flavia, Dogger, Feely, and Daffy are on vacation after having spent the last six months in mourning. It was felt (by Aunt Felicity) that time lazing about on a river would do their souls good. What it actually does is make sure that Flavia encounters yet another dead body, this time she accidentally hooks her fingers in its mouth while trailing them in the aforementioned river. I gagged a little when I listened to that part. Flavia has been obsessing over a local murderer named Canon Whitbread, and it turns out that the corpse in the river is his estranged son, Orlando. A Flavia investigation ensues from there, and because she's in an all new location, not everyone is as willing to help her or give her access to things as they would be at home in Bishop's Lacey.
I wish I could say I enjoyed this more, but I just didn't, and it makes me sad. I still love Flavia unapologetically, and enjoy what Bradley is doing with her characterization, but the plots just do not work for me, and I'm less willing to overlook it than I used to be.
I will read book ten, I think, but if there's more after that, I'm probably out.
March 14, 2018
I think Alan Bradley has lost me with this one and it will be my last visit with Flavia de Luce. The mystery made no sense and wrapped up without really wrapping up and the entire book just felt rather ridiculous. I am so disappointed. Yes, we have to suspend belief when we are reading, especially a murder mystery, but this one was so haphazard and loosey-goosey that I just could not wrap my mind around it. One of the problems was that there were too many characters and yet zero development on the character who was the murderer, it made no sense. While I realize that I have little to no desire to read murder mysteries right now due to circumstances involving a murder in my own life, I felt that this time the approach was just too flippant and I found myself truly disliking Flavia for the first time. I am sad to leave her behind, perhaps I will revisit some of her earlier adventures one day, but the Flavia that has emerged is not one that I care to spend any further time with.
February 10, 2018
I remember reading my first Flavia De Luce mystery 4 years ago and being instantly hooked. Everything from the disheveled manor house, the horrid sisters, the housekeeper/cook that cannot really cook nor keep house, the general factotum Dogger… to last but not least Flavia herself, 11 year old chemist, lonely and very precocious.
Now, imagine my surprise when I recommended this series to a friend and she did not like it because of Flavia. I nearly took offense, because at times, we do take insults to favourite fictional characters rather personal. Yet, thinking about it, I can see that Flavia may split the lovers and haters quite distinctly.
I adore her. I laugh out loud reading it, I am often feeling very sad for her. I know there is a huge part of me that can identify my own 11 year old with Flavia.
The series also captures a certain post-war mood in 1950ies Britain, the manors of the former rich now broke were falling apart, rationing was still going, it just did not really feel like a war had being won.
I was delighted when I got send a digital ARC for book 9 in the series. Ecstatic. Delirious. And I immediately sat down and read it. The De Luce girls are on a little holiday, punting along a river, when Flavia accidentally (is there any other way) dead body floating in the river. More cannot be said about the plot as this is an ongoing series.
Naturally, I highly recommend this. But start at the beginning. If you hate precocious children, this may not be for you. Otherwise, find a comfy chair, make yourself a cuppa and fetch a plate of biscuits and enjoy.
I certainly did.
Now, imagine my surprise when I recommended this series to a friend and she did not like it because of Flavia. I nearly took offense, because at times, we do take insults to favourite fictional characters rather personal. Yet, thinking about it, I can see that Flavia may split the lovers and haters quite distinctly.
I adore her. I laugh out loud reading it, I am often feeling very sad for her. I know there is a huge part of me that can identify my own 11 year old with Flavia.
The series also captures a certain post-war mood in 1950ies Britain, the manors of the former rich now broke were falling apart, rationing was still going, it just did not really feel like a war had being won.
I was delighted when I got send a digital ARC for book 9 in the series. Ecstatic. Delirious. And I immediately sat down and read it. The De Luce girls are on a little holiday, punting along a river, when Flavia accidentally (is there any other way) dead body floating in the river. More cannot be said about the plot as this is an ongoing series.
Naturally, I highly recommend this. But start at the beginning. If you hate precocious children, this may not be for you. Otherwise, find a comfy chair, make yourself a cuppa and fetch a plate of biscuits and enjoy.
I certainly did.
August 22, 2018
I enjoyed reading this novel BUT there just seemed to be so many loose ends, I was kind of surprised when the book just....ends. There's no real resolution and the explanation for the murders happens so quickly I was assuming it was just an intro and they'd discuss it more afterward....but no. Also, there seemed to be a number of characters in this book that were introduced and then just forgotten or left hanging. I don't regret reading this and DID enjoy it, but it just didn't feel complete.
March 21, 2018
Flavia de Luce is one of the best characters to come along in mystery fiction. I've been hooked on this precocious eleven, now twelve-year-old, since the first book in the series, Sweetness at the Bottom of the Pie. Flavia's brilliant mind in chemistry and solving murders has filled each book with a magical presence. The setting, largely at her rundown family estate Buckshaw outside of the bucolic English hamlet of Bishop’s Lacey in the 1950s adds charm to the quirky stories of murder and deceit in which Flavia seems to find herself. And, then the last book, Thrice the Branded Cat Hath Mew'd, has placed the series in a seemingly darker than usual place where readers looked to the current book, The Grave's a Fine and Private Place, to answer questions of what was to become of Flavia and her two tormenting sisters, Feely and Daffy, and the rest of the endearing household. Of course, no reader expects all her questions to be answered, but I very much needed a sense of direction from The Grave's a Fine and Private Place. I can't say that this was a favorite book in the series for me, but I do think Flavia grew up a lot in this book and is in a good place to take control of her destiny back into her own hands. It felt like a necessary book, to advance the direction of those characters we've come to love who reside at Buckshaw.
For the rest of this review, please visit my reading blog at http://www.readingroom-readmore.com/2...
For the rest of this review, please visit my reading blog at http://www.readingroom-readmore.com/2...
February 4, 2018
Alan Bradley is a master storyteller. This book is the 9th book in the Flavia de Luce series. I think I like Flavia more and more with each new installment. What I love the most, is how the characters evolve in each book. I'm glad the the author propels them all forward and that the reader is getting to know them more and more with each book. The different stories also seem new with each book and aren't falling into the "formulaic" trap that is often prevalent in other books/series.
This book was a little more calm than the one that preceded it....I'm glad for that. And I love Dogger.
He is a great anchor....but I really want him to open up. I'm glad we will be seeing more of him in future books.
This book was a little more calm than the one that preceded it....I'm glad for that. And I love Dogger.
He is a great anchor....but I really want him to open up. I'm glad we will be seeing more of him in future books.
March 11, 2018
This is the ninth entry in Alan Bradley's delightful Flavia de Luce series. As usual, there's a puzzling mystery to be solved, lots of interesting and quirky characters, plenty of suspense, and just the right amount of dark humor. It's 1952 and King George VI has just died, Flavia is now 12 years old and growing up, she and her older sisters are getting along better with one another, and more is revealed about the wise and mysterious Dogger. This is one of my favorites in the series, and I'm eagerly looking forward to the next installment.
October 3, 2021
“The world was changing and I, whatever I was, was changing with it.”
With Flavia’s family being on summer holiday, now six months after her father’s death, Dogger, Flavia, and her sisters were traveling down the river planning to meet up with her aunt in a few days. When Flavia managed to entangle her fingers in a corpse’s mouth while dangling her hand in the water. Any normal person would have shrieked and let go. Flavia kept her wits and hung on, while Dogger steered the boat ashore. Always aware, Flavia rifled through the corpse’s pockets and took samples, all under the guise of watching over the body, while Dogger went for help.
Flavia crossed over the threshold to adulthood in this book. Now closer to thirteen than eleven, it reflected in her relationship with her sisters. But her bond with Dogger was a focus of this book. And we met someone who knew Dogger from long ago that Flavia used to gain intel on his mysterious past. However, my favorite part was Dogger and Flavia working together, like partners, to solve this mystery. That was a new twist. And it was uncanny how they were able to produce scientific equipment and chemical materials out of ordinary objects. How clever they were! Surprisingly, Flavia’s sister Daffy, who had always ignored Flavia, helped indirectly with the investigation when Flavia pumped her for her literary and poetry knowledge.
Flavia acted her boldest thus far in book 9. I would call her behavior impudent. Despite being in risky situations in the past, she met with a perilous encounter before this book ended.
This mystery was my least favorite so far. That’s not to say it wouldn’t appeal to other readers. I just didn’t find it interesting. My interest was more on the evolving character’s arc than the mystery.
While this entire series has been a delight, listening to the audio narrated by Jayne Entwistle has endeared the characters to me in a way reading the text alone had not. Her reading style brought the characters to life. No doubt that certain books are better suited for narration; this book’s audio is highly recommended.
Once the mystery concluded, I felt like this book ended on a note of uncertainty. Where would Flavia live? Would her aunt force her to sell her beloved Buckshaw? Would she be separated from Dogger permanently? What would her sisters do? All these hanging questions only made me anxious to read the next book. In Flavia’s wise words, “possibilities are so much more thrilling than certainties.”
With Flavia’s family being on summer holiday, now six months after her father’s death, Dogger, Flavia, and her sisters were traveling down the river planning to meet up with her aunt in a few days. When Flavia managed to entangle her fingers in a corpse’s mouth while dangling her hand in the water. Any normal person would have shrieked and let go. Flavia kept her wits and hung on, while Dogger steered the boat ashore. Always aware, Flavia rifled through the corpse’s pockets and took samples, all under the guise of watching over the body, while Dogger went for help.
Flavia crossed over the threshold to adulthood in this book. Now closer to thirteen than eleven, it reflected in her relationship with her sisters. But her bond with Dogger was a focus of this book. And we met someone who knew Dogger from long ago that Flavia used to gain intel on his mysterious past. However, my favorite part was Dogger and Flavia working together, like partners, to solve this mystery. That was a new twist. And it was uncanny how they were able to produce scientific equipment and chemical materials out of ordinary objects. How clever they were! Surprisingly, Flavia’s sister Daffy, who had always ignored Flavia, helped indirectly with the investigation when Flavia pumped her for her literary and poetry knowledge.
Flavia acted her boldest thus far in book 9. I would call her behavior impudent. Despite being in risky situations in the past, she met with a perilous encounter before this book ended.
This mystery was my least favorite so far. That’s not to say it wouldn’t appeal to other readers. I just didn’t find it interesting. My interest was more on the evolving character’s arc than the mystery.
While this entire series has been a delight, listening to the audio narrated by Jayne Entwistle has endeared the characters to me in a way reading the text alone had not. Her reading style brought the characters to life. No doubt that certain books are better suited for narration; this book’s audio is highly recommended.
Once the mystery concluded, I felt like this book ended on a note of uncertainty. Where would Flavia live? Would her aunt force her to sell her beloved Buckshaw? Would she be separated from Dogger permanently? What would her sisters do? All these hanging questions only made me anxious to read the next book. In Flavia’s wise words, “possibilities are so much more thrilling than certainties.”
March 13, 2024
I found this one distinctly less charming than other books in the series, even though cyanide plays a starring role. Even three fast, horrible deaths from cyanide (which, if you are not already familiar with this charming ion, prevents cells from doing cellular respiration - i.e. you asphyxiate from the inside) couldn't save The Grave's a Fine and Private Place from tedium, disbelief, and disillusionment.
Flavia is on holiday in a neighboring town, taking a boat with her sisters and Dogger, who are all trying to take a break from the grief of Flavia's father's recent death. She trails a hand in the water, and lo! she catches somethig immediately. Perhaps a fish? No, not a fish: the open mouth of a corpse. Never one for queasiness, Flavia examines the body while Dogger goes for help, and thus begins another investigation of murder, this time with police offers less amiable than Inspector Hewitt, local scandals (three ladies and a poisoned communion chalice!), and chemistry in an improvised lab.
At 358 pages, this book is a little longer than most Flavia books, and it downright drags in the middle with much time spent on red herrings and an increasingly convoluted plot. Flavia happens upon convenient clues and makes convenient leaps of intuition, all as usual, but Dogger - good grief, Dogger fakes PTSD to weasel tea and a ride out of a former sweetheart? I can't believe it, and I was willing to chalk it up to Flavia's devious mind until he hinted she had guessed right. That strikes me as a total betrayal of Dogger's character up until now.
I think this would have been my last book of this series had I not read the much more likable book 10The Golden Tresses of the Dead before starting this one.
It's striking how casual and unemotional the deaths in this series are, with the exception of Flavia's own parents.
Flavia is on holiday in a neighboring town, taking a boat with her sisters and Dogger, who are all trying to take a break from the grief of Flavia's father's recent death. She trails a hand in the water, and lo! she catches somethig immediately. Perhaps a fish? No, not a fish: the open mouth of a corpse. Never one for queasiness, Flavia examines the body while Dogger goes for help, and thus begins another investigation of murder, this time with police offers less amiable than Inspector Hewitt, local scandals (three ladies and a poisoned communion chalice!), and chemistry in an improvised lab.
At 358 pages, this book is a little longer than most Flavia books, and it downright drags in the middle with much time spent on red herrings and an increasingly convoluted plot. Flavia happens upon convenient clues and makes convenient leaps of intuition, all as usual, but Dogger - good grief, Dogger fakes PTSD to weasel tea and a ride out of a former sweetheart? I can't believe it, and I was willing to chalk it up to Flavia's devious mind until he hinted she had guessed right. That strikes me as a total betrayal of Dogger's character up until now.
I think this would have been my last book of this series had I not read the much more likable book 10The Golden Tresses of the Dead before starting this one.
It's striking how casual and unemotional the deaths in this series are, with the exception of Flavia's own parents.
December 26, 2021
I just love this series and especially Flavia de Luce. Out of all 9 books that I have listened to, this is probably my least favorite so far, but only because the ending wasn't as neatly tied up as usual. I loved how well Flavia and Dogger worked together in this one, it was wonderful, and they make such a great team! Her knowledge as a young pre-teen and his knowledge work together so well. I look forward to the final book in this series. I'm so glad that Jane Entwistle narrated all the books, as she does a perfect job with all of the characters. So with that, on to the next, happy for the next, but sad it's the last one left in this fantastic series.
February 23, 2018
I literally love these books. I love how Flavia has one set of skills in chemistry, but she is surrounded by poets, too. The matter-0f-fact COE worldview and the nonchalant quoting of scripture always make me smile. I love the pathos and the humor. I love Dogger and I love how this book recognizes that a family has bloomed out of the bitter seeds of the past and now something new is happening.
Perhaps the mystery was a bit weak...but spending time with Flavia made up for it.
Perhaps the mystery was a bit weak...but spending time with Flavia made up for it.
March 7, 2023
3/7/23- not quite finished with my reread, but rereading this series with the Detectives group has helped me put it in perspective. Have to knock my previous 5 stars down to 3.5-4, rounding up for old times sake, all the pleasure Flavia has provided over the years.
Listening to audiobook left me delighted with Jane Entwistle, who’s spot-on performance brought Flavia to life for me, but also helped me follow along when Flavia goes down a rabbit hole of extraneous knowledge, whether chemistry, religion, history, etc. Bradley’s flights of fancy are always informative and entertaining, but often fly off in five directions at once, often random, and often totally superfluous to the plot. I’ve always felt he was trying to convey her precocious and brilliant brain, combined with the exuberance and intensity of a lonely little girl.
It was helpful to reread this one, the last book ended with a devastating tragedy, and this one helped long-time fans see how Aunt Felicity would sweep in, organize everyone, and start the healing journey. In this case, literally - she’s sent the three sisters off on a boating trip with Dogger as escort and general factotum, his usual role at home. Flavia is away from Bishop’s Lacy, her village, but noses about meeting all the locals after discovering a dead body in the river.
As usual, the workings of her mind are a mystery - she hares off after any new suggestion, and I often find myself wondering why she’s talking to this or that person, then I feel like it’s just to allow Bradley to introduce another quirky, intriguing character/suspect, and just go with the flow. I was pleased to see some long overdue maturing/slight warming of her warring relationships with her older sisters. And her relationship with Dogger is sweeter than ever - Flavia makes note several times that Dogger, a former WWII POW who has suffered horrific PTSD from the beginning of the series, seemed to be changing, growing, improving - he has some episodes, but not as severe as in the past. Promising progress all round, I’d say, for us long-time fans! Would recommend these books be read in order.
Original review, 3/2018: I always enjoy my outings with Flavia, but the last few books have left me concerned where she (or rather, where Alan Bradley), was taking the series.
After a heartbreaking tragedy leaves Flavia and her two sisters devastated, Aunt Felicity has swept in from London to restore order - and see the girls and Dogger off on a short holiday. Of course, Flavia comes across a dead body as they slowly float down river on a boating trip...I couldn’t help thinking, Three Men in a Boat meets Sherlock!
Flavia, as usual, is sniffing around asking all sorts of questions and getting in over her head, and I, as usual, reach a point (usually about half-way) where I’m wondering whether all of these red herrings measure up to anything, or am I confused because Flavia is twelve years old and I forget how her mind works. But, as usual, I decide to just go along with the flow and enjoy the ride! At least now I’ve got some intriguing insights into Dogger and his past and some optimism about Flavia’s future!
Listening to audiobook left me delighted with Jane Entwistle, who’s spot-on performance brought Flavia to life for me, but also helped me follow along when Flavia goes down a rabbit hole of extraneous knowledge, whether chemistry, religion, history, etc. Bradley’s flights of fancy are always informative and entertaining, but often fly off in five directions at once, often random, and often totally superfluous to the plot. I’ve always felt he was trying to convey her precocious and brilliant brain, combined with the exuberance and intensity of a lonely little girl.
It was helpful to reread this one, the last book ended with a devastating tragedy, and this one helped long-time fans see how Aunt Felicity would sweep in, organize everyone, and start the healing journey. In this case, literally - she’s sent the three sisters off on a boating trip with Dogger as escort and general factotum, his usual role at home. Flavia is away from Bishop’s Lacy, her village, but noses about meeting all the locals after discovering a dead body in the river.
As usual, the workings of her mind are a mystery - she hares off after any new suggestion, and I often find myself wondering why she’s talking to this or that person, then I feel like it’s just to allow Bradley to introduce another quirky, intriguing character/suspect, and just go with the flow. I was pleased to see some long overdue maturing/slight warming of her warring relationships with her older sisters. And her relationship with Dogger is sweeter than ever - Flavia makes note several times that Dogger, a former WWII POW who has suffered horrific PTSD from the beginning of the series, seemed to be changing, growing, improving - he has some episodes, but not as severe as in the past. Promising progress all round, I’d say, for us long-time fans! Would recommend these books be read in order.
Original review, 3/2018: I always enjoy my outings with Flavia, but the last few books have left me concerned where she (or rather, where Alan Bradley), was taking the series.
After a heartbreaking tragedy leaves Flavia and her two sisters devastated, Aunt Felicity has swept in from London to restore order - and see the girls and Dogger off on a short holiday. Of course, Flavia comes across a dead body as they slowly float down river on a boating trip...I couldn’t help thinking, Three Men in a Boat meets Sherlock!
Flavia, as usual, is sniffing around asking all sorts of questions and getting in over her head, and I, as usual, reach a point (usually about half-way) where I’m wondering whether all of these red herrings measure up to anything, or am I confused because Flavia is twelve years old and I forget how her mind works. But, as usual, I decide to just go along with the flow and enjoy the ride! At least now I’ve got some intriguing insights into Dogger and his past and some optimism about Flavia’s future!
November 8, 2017
In the latest offering in Alan Bradley's Flavia de Luce series, the mystery is a bit of a slow affair, but the characters are as interesting as ever.
After the events of the previous book, Flavia and family required a bit of a break (no spoilers, of course!). The main strength of this book is to reaffirm the relationships that are important to Flavia, particularly with her father's old best friend Dogger and her sisters.
When the family is out for a row along the river, they get entangled with...a body. After some, in my opinion, rather too anatomically detailed investigation (this is Flavia, after all, and she has a stomach of iron), the story gets underway and introduces a cast of characters for this riverside town.
The most interesting one (though given far too little page time) is Hob, the undertaker's young son. He's younger than Flavia and she neatly steps into the role of cool older kid. Not that she overdoes it. But it does allow her to exercise her growing-up skills in a new way that I thought was well done.
I really liked the brief appearance at the end of one of Flavia's mentors, as it allows the reader to see just what kind of a niche she has now carved out for herself and how she is not the friendless child that she may have imagined herself at the very beginning of the series. Flavia has come a long way in spite of only aging a couple of years. I look forward to seeing what's next.
***Thanks to Delacorte Press/Random House through NetGalley for my advance review copy of this!!
After the events of the previous book, Flavia and family required a bit of a break (no spoilers, of course!). The main strength of this book is to reaffirm the relationships that are important to Flavia, particularly with her father's old best friend Dogger and her sisters.
When the family is out for a row along the river, they get entangled with...a body. After some, in my opinion, rather too anatomically detailed investigation (this is Flavia, after all, and she has a stomach of iron), the story gets underway and introduces a cast of characters for this riverside town.
The most interesting one (though given far too little page time) is Hob, the undertaker's young son. He's younger than Flavia and she neatly steps into the role of cool older kid. Not that she overdoes it. But it does allow her to exercise her growing-up skills in a new way that I thought was well done.
I really liked the brief appearance at the end of one of Flavia's mentors, as it allows the reader to see just what kind of a niche she has now carved out for herself and how she is not the friendless child that she may have imagined herself at the very beginning of the series. Flavia has come a long way in spite of only aging a couple of years. I look forward to seeing what's next.
***Thanks to Delacorte Press/Random House through NetGalley for my advance review copy of this!!
April 12, 2018
Gosh. Alan Bradley consistently knocks it out of the park with each addition to his Flavia de Luce series. He writes so eloquently and fills each book with tidbits on chemistry, forensics, music, literature, and then there is the amazing story! I was struck at the end of this one by the constant character evolution we see from book 1 to this most recent book 9. This was amazing.
I enjoyed the countryside descriptions of the summer holiday Flavia is taking. It is a holiday from also the decisions that must be made (and also for us readers to await what will happen to Flavia, Buckshaw, and the rest of the family). Yet a holiday doesn't mean a reprieve from murder. When Flavia pulls a corpse by the mouth out the river; she is thrown into a case that will challenge her wits, skills, and lack of a handy laboratory. This book was filled with more chemistry, poisons, and forensic details than a few of its predecessors. I was impressed with the level of detail Bradley puts into the story- to the point of a bit of turned stomach over the corpse description (well done, Bradley!). Each book makes me love Flavia a bit more and worry over her (she'd hate that I even said that). She demonstrates more poise and self introspection in this one. I also appreciated more time with Dogger. All in all, it's a fantastic mystery that also has haunting, poignant moments that fans of the series will find tugging at their heart strings.
I enjoyed the countryside descriptions of the summer holiday Flavia is taking. It is a holiday from also the decisions that must be made (and also for us readers to await what will happen to Flavia, Buckshaw, and the rest of the family). Yet a holiday doesn't mean a reprieve from murder. When Flavia pulls a corpse by the mouth out the river; she is thrown into a case that will challenge her wits, skills, and lack of a handy laboratory. This book was filled with more chemistry, poisons, and forensic details than a few of its predecessors. I was impressed with the level of detail Bradley puts into the story- to the point of a bit of turned stomach over the corpse description (well done, Bradley!). Each book makes me love Flavia a bit more and worry over her (she'd hate that I even said that). She demonstrates more poise and self introspection in this one. I also appreciated more time with Dogger. All in all, it's a fantastic mystery that also has haunting, poignant moments that fans of the series will find tugging at their heart strings.
March 16, 2018
Not the best of the series, but it was very nice to rejoin old friends.
The "Flavia imagines the crime as it happened two years ago" bit was bizarre and didn't work for me. I understand that the author wanted to present an image of it, but I found it unconvincing. The later climactic bit was also a bit overblown.
Don't know how I feel about Dogger and the way the ending points for the future - it's quite different - but we'll see.
Enjoyed the narration by Jayne Entwistle as usual.
The "Flavia imagines the crime as it happened two years ago" bit was bizarre and didn't work for me. I understand that the author wanted to present an image of it, but I found it unconvincing. The later climactic bit was also a bit overblown.
Don't know how I feel about Dogger and the way the ending points for the future - it's quite different - but we'll see.
Enjoyed the narration by Jayne Entwistle as usual.
March 4, 2018
As a fan of this series, I was underwhelmed by book 8. This book could very well be the best yet and sets up the story line for new adventures to come!
June 9, 2019
In this ninth outing for Flavia, she and her sisters and Dogger, the family factotum, are on holiday to help the three sisters recover from the tragic occurrence at the end of the previous book, about six months previously. Being a Flavia story it isn't long before she turns up another dead body and then launches into her own investigation, this time ably assisted by the very talented Dogger. I especially liked the scene where they set up their own chemisty lab in Flavia's room at the pub where they end up staying.
However this book was a bit of a mixture for me because although I loved the interaction with Dogger, and the improvement in Flavia's relationship with her sisters, certainly Daffy (Daphne), I wasn't keen on the plot denoument and especially on the scene where Flavia somehow induces in herself a vision of the previous murder of three women at Holy Communion, so that she sees things she couldn't possibly know about. That was all a bit ridiculous. The explanation of who was responsible, and who killed the person Flavia found, is not very convincing. So that side of it was a bit of a letdown sadly and accounts for my awarding this 4 stars rather than 5.
However this book was a bit of a mixture for me because although I loved the interaction with Dogger, and the improvement in Flavia's relationship with her sisters, certainly Daffy (Daphne), I wasn't keen on the plot denoument and especially on the scene where Flavia somehow induces in herself a vision of the previous murder of three women at Holy Communion, so that she sees things she couldn't possibly know about. That was all a bit ridiculous. The explanation of who was responsible, and who killed the person Flavia found, is not very convincing. So that side of it was a bit of a letdown sadly and accounts for my awarding this 4 stars rather than 5.
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