At first glance the male body wearing torn and tattered clothing found in the village bistro appears to be that of an old hermit or bum. Upon further inspection, it becomes obvious that the corpse had once been a man of means. What on earth is this man’s body doing lying on the floor of the bistro, and why is the bistro owner, Olivier, acting so strangely?
“The Brutal Telling” is the 5th novel in the “Inspector Gamache” series and the 2nd that takes place in the village of Three Pines. Tree Pines is in the Canadian providence of Quebec and is chock full of colorful characters, who all deny knowing the hermit. However, we soon find out that Olivier had a secret relationship with him.
Ms. Penny writes an intriguing, well written story that draws you in. The investigation takes a number of twists and turns and quite a few “red herrings” are thrown in to keep you guessing. For those of you that like delectable descriptions of gourmet food, this novel will not disappoint you. While reading it I found myself longing for an amuse-bouche and a lovely glass, or three, of Cabernet.
“The Brutal Telling” stands up well on its own, but I wish I would have started with “Still Life”, the first book in the “Chief Inspector Gamache” series. Since I can’t change the past, I’m reading it now.
Check the catalog for this book | eAudiobook
Tags: Mystery/Suspense
