Take a photo of a barcode or cover
4.22 AVERAGE
4.22 AVERAGE
Honestly... it's only a book, Gina. The characters aren't real! Yet, I found myself a bit weepy here and there reading through The Last Remains, the finale of Elly Griffiths' Dr. Ruth Galloway mystery series.
I discovered this series after reading The Postscript Murders, and the first book I read was The Locked Room, which was set during the lockdowns of 2020 Covid-19 pandemic lockdowns. I did not fully understand the characters and the relationships, but Griffiths' writing was so enjoyable.
The series ends well, and frankly, I would have accepted any resolution that Griffiths provided. She has crafted a wonderful series, but each book is a fully enjoyable, stand-alone read. That said, one plot point is all the better for having read the series -- in order.
I have read the books in both print and audio formats, and Jane McDowell's narration deserves a proper mention.
I discovered this series after reading The Postscript Murders, and the first book I read was The Locked Room, which was set during the lockdowns of 2020 Covid-19 pandemic lockdowns. I did not fully understand the characters and the relationships, but Griffiths' writing was so enjoyable.
The series ends well, and frankly, I would have accepted any resolution that Griffiths provided. She has crafted a wonderful series, but each book is a fully enjoyable, stand-alone read. That said, one plot point is all the better for having read the series -- in order.
I have read the books in both print and audio formats, and Jane McDowell's narration deserves a proper mention.
Solid storyline weaving the ancient history/mythology of England to a murder. Would prefer a little less monologuing on personal relationships and more on the history.
Archaeologist Ruth Galloway is called in to consult on skeletal remains in a case being investigated by DCI Nelson, her daughter's father. As the investigation becomes more complicated, one of their friends becomes a possible suspect, and Galloway and Nelson realize they'll need to make some hard decisions about their relationship. Set against the backdrop of the COVID pandemic as it continued into 2021 (masks are worn, a character suffers from long COVID), the book provides a resolution for the couple's romance and a hopeful look toward the future, although fans may feel cheated by the author not describing any of the discussion or emotion leading up to the final scene.
I have loved every word in this series, but I really, really loved this one. I hope I live long enough to see Griffiths revisit this series. If not, at least I have The Last Remains. All the stars!
adventurous
challenging
dark
emotional
mysterious
reflective
sad
tense
fast-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
This series has been a rollercoaster ride for me and I've definitely enjoyed some books more than others. But this was such a fantastic way to end. I was so scared that Griffiths was going to kill off my favourite character though. So I was on the edge of my seat throughout the storyline, more so than in the previous few books in the series.
A very satisfying end to a brilliant series. A great full circle moment with Lucy Downey returning, very good story and the same loveable characters. Had me genuinely worried about Cathbad at points
Someday, when a scholar writes a study of how the pandemic showed up in fiction, I hope this book is one that she discusses. Covid precautions play a role in which police are available to work the case, and how each person reacts to the necessity is so true to life that I realize how deeply I have gotten to know all these characters and how much I will miss them. I could see rereading the whole series if I live long enough, only there is so much else beckoning for attention!
I am still not sure Ruth and Nelson belong together. Good sex and co-parenting may be enough for now, but will the two of them really have what it takes to grow old together?
As far as the mystery is concerned, at one time I had the right motive in sight and at another, the right person, but the cops put two and two together quicker than I did.
I am still not sure Ruth and Nelson belong together. Good sex and co-parenting may be enough for now, but will the two of them really have what it takes to grow old together?
As far as the mystery is concerned, at one time I had the right motive in sight and at another, the right person, but the cops put two and two together quicker than I did.
This feels a little like the end of this series as several threads that have run through many of the Ruth Galloway books are woven together at the novel's close. A bit slow to unwind, this mystery provided the expected red herrings and a less than satisfying reveal of the killer. In many ways this is a novel about families more than a murder mystery, revealing Ruth's insecurities and struggles as she raises her daughter alone and struggles to understand her relationship with the little girl's father. For fans of cozy mysteries, this is one is very cozy.
Enjoyed meeting familiar characters again in this engaging series. Sad that a lot of ends were tied up this time though suggesting that the series has ended. Will continue to read Elly Griffiths' other novels which are also very good.