Hail, hail, the gang's all here! Osman has created a foursome of friends that have just grabbed me and don't let go. I felt sympathy for Elizabeth's grief and for Ron's shaky hands. I enjoy Joyce's commentary on whatever is going on and Ibrahim's certainty that he can figure out anything.
But it isn't just these four. The side characters are allowed to develop as well. Bogdan is still a regular in Coopers Chase. Donna and Chris are still in a conflicted state about the Thursday Murder Club, but they show up when necessary. And in this volume Joyce's daughter Joanna gets a significant role. Not only is she getting married, she's working with her mom and Elizabeth to solve a murder and figure out a financial puzzle. I also enjoyed watching Joyce and Joanna learn how to appreciate each other better.
I love Osman's sly sense of humour and the complicated problems that he creates for his characters. I also appreciate that these characters continue to age as the books progress. If he continues to write them, I fear that he will eventually break my heart with the death of one of my imaginary friends.
For the time being, I continue to enjoy these novels and will look forward to the next one with pleasure.
No comments:
Post a Comment