Inspector Gamache and the best yet: Glass Houses

Glass Houses 

by Louise Penny
Minotaur Books
August 2017

Penny's absolute mastery of complex woven story lines lived out by achingly dear characters appears at its strongest in this, her latest release in the Inspector Gamache series. 

If you haven't read it yet, hurry to do so.  And if you haven't begun or advanced through the series, slow down to savor and enjoy each book.

In this release, Gamache is pushing the boundaries of his career, as well as his personal life and reputation. The stakes could not be higher. Yet the amazing resolution that Ms. Penny paints makes you hold your breath, hang on for the cliffhanger moments, and then rejoice at the (amost) completely wonderful ending. 

As a reader who often doesn't trouble to read the second in most series, I have already begun the count-down to when I can look for the next new release.

Peace to you, Ms. Henry, and deep thanks for the consistent pleasure your writing provides.

Hunting Hour by Mizushima - newest release in a great series

Hunting Hour
     book 3, Timber Creek K-9 Mystery Series
by Margaret Mizushima
Crooked Lane Books
Aug 2017

This entire series is increasingly a pleasure to read. From the beginning with Killing Trail, the story line of a rural Colorado sheriff beginning her work as a K9 officer is engaging and character-driven.

This third book shows Mattie Cobb growing in confidence and her awareness of relationships with the folks around her. The life of the small town of Timber Creek is realistically complicated, and the residents respect Mattie's work and are grateful for the strategic help she and her dog Robo provide.

Author Mizushima does an excellent job positing a compelling and opaque mystery in each book, as well as developing characters the reader cares about and relationships that matter, change, and deepen.

The series is a pleasure to read - and this third entry is the smoothest and most enjoyable.