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3.7 AVERAGE
3.7 AVERAGE
dark
funny
mysterious
reflective
tense
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Plot
Strong character development:
Complicated
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
No
Flaws of characters a main focus:
No
Series is off to a good start. Not to sure how I feel about Ruth though. I will read the next to see if she gets any more likeable.
Yay! Another mystery series to devour with a smart, feminist protagonist. Ruth Galloway is a professor/archaeologist who lives her life the way she wants.
My only drawback is the freaking fat-shaming that seems to have pervaded the early 2000s/2010s. It is abundantly clear that a woman like Ruth would not give a flying fig about her weight, so why does the author insist it be part of her inner monologue so often? Totally unnecessary.
You do you, Ruth.
I’ll be back for more!
My only drawback is the freaking fat-shaming that seems to have pervaded the early 2000s/2010s. It is abundantly clear that a woman like Ruth would not give a flying fig about her weight, so why does the author insist it be part of her inner monologue so often? Totally unnecessary.
You do you, Ruth.
I’ll be back for more!
The first installment of the Ruth Galloway series was pretty enjoyable and I’ll definitely check out the next one. The mystery was interesting, but what really struck me was the setting. Elly Griffith does a great job creating atmosphere and making the Saltmarsh its own character. Also, I could totally identify with Ruth and enjoyed several of the supporting characters.
How perfect for me: an archaeologist working with the police! This was a great easy read and kept me hooked right to the end. It is not a great work of fiction or a book which will keep my thinking after the last page... but it was a great read I really enjoyed and look forward to.the next in the series.
mysterious
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Character
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Complicated
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Complicated
The Crossing Places introduces forensic archaeologist Ruth Galloway in a mystery that blends history, folklore, and crime. When human bones are discovered on the Norfolk salt marshes, Ruth is drawn into a police investigation led by DCI Harry Nelson. The setting is atmospheric, with eerie landscapes that add to the novel’s intrigue.
Ruth is a refreshingly unconventional protagonist—intelligent, independent, and grounded. Her dynamic with Nelson is engaging, hinting at deeper character development in future books. The blend of archaeology and crime is interesting, adding a unique angle to the mystery.
However, the pacing is slow at times, and the mystery itself feels somewhat predictable. While the setting and characters are compelling, the suspense doesn’t always deliver the level of tension expected in a crime thriller. That said, it’s an enjoyable read for those who prefer a more character-driven mystery with a strong sense of place.
A quick, easy and enjoyable read. Great for holiday reading.
However, it is somewhat predictable - it doesn't take too long to work out the where and the who of it - with a couple of small surprises thrown in for good measure.
However, it is somewhat predictable - it doesn't take too long to work out the where and the who of it - with a couple of small surprises thrown in for good measure.
adventurous
hopeful
reflective
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Complicated
dark
emotional
mysterious
tense
Plot or Character Driven:
Character
