Bests & Worsts Reviews from Amazon

Throughout the book, all I kept thinking was “What’s the rush?” Until this mess of a book appeared, the author treated each character lovingly and never rushed the narrative. Every word, scene and bit of dialogue was carefully crafted. The twists were authentic, believable and they played out methodically. Unfortunately, none of that thoughtfulness and care made its way into this book. It reads like a a fan-fiction novel. Or worse, like a bad editor trying to write a book for client. Characters became caricatures and behaved in ridiculous, juvenile ways. Twice in the book, Myrna is said to be “lowering herself on her ample/large backside.” Clara devolves into a histrionic Drama Queen, who somehow ruins her career-completely-with one show featuring a series of miniature paintings. This one show received bad reviews and generated a social media backlash #claramorrowsux. We are asked to believe that all her previous buyers want to “return her ALL her other paintings” One of critics shows up in TP, thinks about moving there then drops out of the book-just disappears. Furthermore, we’re asked to believe that Twitter has the Suerte’ thrown into chaos because of criticisms and negative opinions under (wait for it!) #gamagesux? Of course, this is nothing compared to another video being released, with racist overtones, but the racism isn’t discussed at all. I am assuming Louise Penny is trying to make some commentary regarding social media, but I couldn’t figure out what that was...finally I simply didn’t care. This is Jean-Guy’s last case. I don’t know who he is, anymore. Even Ruth becomes mundane, silly and disingenuous. There was no comfort or wisdom in this book. I would rather wait years between books than for the stories to be rushed and lose the charm and beauty they once had. I’ve ALWAYS given the books in this series 5 stars! This one, however, I wish I’d never read