The Brutal Telling

The Brutal Telling by Louise Penny, 372 pgs.

The sleepy Quebecois village of Three Pines wakes early one morning to a shock: a stranger's corpse has been found at the local bistro. The villagers are grateful that it was not one of their own found lying in this hub of connection and sustenance, but initial shock and relief give way to dread as Chief Inspector Gamache uncovers more questions than answers. Who was the dead man? Who killed him? and Why was he discovered in the bistro of all places? While there are many unique things about this case, at its root it is like any other, blooming from an emotion. What rotten, corrosive emotion is behind this one?

Armand Gamache is a steady, comforting presence, even in these deeply unsettling times. However, my appreciation for this book's central character does not entirely sway me to liking the story. Despite being the longest book of the series thus far, this novel feels a bit unfinished. Like a painter hoping to mix the perfect shade, Penny adds new colors to this book by asking many questions, introducing new and interesting characters, and uncovering many shiny things. Each of these colorful additions is beautiful and interesting on its own, but once all mixed together, the story painting loses its brilliance in a muddy, brown mess. I am still looking forward to reading the next one, though!