A review by karteabooks
The Locked Room by Elly Griffiths

challenging mysterious tense fast-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? It's complicated
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? No

5.0

 

Dr Ruth Galloway and DCI Harry Nelson #14 and yet again I have been transported back to UNN and the Saltmarshes of North Norfolk. As always, I have enjoyed catching up with Ruth, Kate, Nelson, Judy, Cathbad and it was great to have Clough drop in too, just for old times sake. 

This is set at the beginning of the first Lockdown, and I admit that at first, I was a little apprehensive of reading about it, but it has been written so thoughtfully and considerately and from the characters points of view too. It was all very realistic and even though we all had our own experiences of Lockdown, it was great to read the characters understanding, emotions and feeling of helplessness that I think we all experienced in our varying different and unique ways. 

Of course, there were dead bodies, and of course there were old bones involved too – it wouldn’t be a Dr Ruth without them. Nelson and Bruno have a few special moments too, although in my opinion Nelson does seem to be mellowing slightly with age (although personally I don’t think that this is a bad thing). As with every instalment the Nelson/Ruth/Michelle/Kate dilemma rears its head, but this time due to unfortunate events, Nelson, Kate and Ruth are brought closer than they have even been and for longer too. Bruno and Flint got to spend time together too. 

As always, North Norfolk’s Serious Crime Unit tied everything up neatly and just as you think there will be a happy ending…GRR!! 

Already looking forward to #15.