A review by birdbrainbooks
The Beautiful Mystery by Louise Penny

challenging emotional hopeful mysterious reflective tense medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

5.0

Oh man. Such a tough one to read. As always, a reminder that these books need to be read in order. This one is unique as it takes place completely at a remote Quebec monastery, not in or surrounding our usually beloved village of Three Pines. It’s a slow boil that completely burns at the end.
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The themes explored around religion, what is sacred and what’s sin, secrets and confessions, are all done so extraordinarily well, in classic Louise Penny style. Her characters though are what have my heart—and why it’s hurting by the end of this one. I anticipate picking up the next one pretty soon.
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This one left me feeling like this: 😖😩🤢😰
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Also a moment to appreciate the ever-present monk-made chocolate-covered wild blueberries and the artesian cheese on warm baguettes.🫐🥖🧀😍

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