It's been a busy time here lately - hence the lack of posts - but I couldn't not pop in to tell you about Susan Fletcher's impressive new novel The Night in Question as I enjoyed it so very much.
It's described as an "uplifting literary murder-mystery", and that really appealed to me, and having read some of Susan's earlier books (this one, for instance) I know she's a fine writer, so I felt sure I'd be on safe ground.
The setting is Babbington Hall, a very upmarket assisted living establishment in rural Oxfordshire, whose residents include Florence Butterfield, 87 years old, confined to a wheelchair, but as sympathetic and spirited a heroine as you could wish for. When dramatic and distressing events occur at Babbington, it is Florence who determines to get to the truth behind them, and in a story as warm and touching as it is finely woven, her own eventful life is gradually revealed alongside the solving of the present day mystery.
I loved the book's tone, its generous heart, its beautifully observed details, and the story absorbed me and carried me along just as I'd hoped it would. Florrie is an excellent character through and through, congenial, shrewd and engaging as a sleuth, worthy of respect, admiration and affection as a person - I was sorry to turn the final page and come to the end of my acquaintance with her.
To sum up, this book is a joy, and an absolute highlight of my reading year so far.
I haven't read Susan Fletcher, but I am certain I will enjoy this too. Thank you very much for the recommendation!
Posted by: Deborah Vass | 02 July 2024 at 10:00 PM
You're welcome, Deborah, and if you do read it I hope you will love it as much as I did.
Posted by: Cornflower | 03 July 2024 at 09:23 AM
How lovely to see you back! I read Corrag - also on your recommendation - and loved it.
Posted by: Mary | 05 July 2024 at 07:50 PM
Super, Mary - glad you liked Corrag!
Posted by: Cornflower | 07 July 2024 at 02:18 PM