lavenderstardust's review against another edition
mysterious
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
3.75
amaliacharis's review against another edition
adventurous
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
4.5
orchidlilly's review against another edition
adventurous
funny
lighthearted
mysterious
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? It's complicated
4.0
Flavia gets a jarring change of location, and while we dont get to see much of our old favourite players, we do get a fun new cast and a new role model for Flavia, even if it's all temporary. A refreshing change of scenery to make us (and Flavia) realise how much we love dingy little Bishop's Lacey.
Content Warnings
Moderate: Murder, Violence, Bullying, Death, Fire/Fire injury, Physical abuse, and Injury/injury detail
Minor: Blood, Terminal illness, Chronic illness, Death of parent, Panic attacks/disorders, Medical content, Alcohol, Child death, Classism, War, and Grief
nicki_j's review against another edition
3.0
I swore that I was done with this series after the very lackluster explanation of Harriet's disappearance and death in what I thought was the final book of the series. But then this came out and I just couldn't resist. I love the character of Flavia De Luce. She is so funny. But that is what completely carried this novel...the plot and the mystery were weak. I missed the predictable supporting characters (especially Daffy, my second fave). I realize that many people spoke in code or veiled statements to Flavia given her new position in the Nide but there were times when I literally had no idea what was going on. I understand that its a mystery, but those hidden meanings are supposed to come to light in the end. The verdict was weak, as was the a-ha moment! I also never felt that Flavia was in grave danger, which is a staple of the series as well.
cedrics_mom's review against another edition
4.0
Love little Flavia although she would protest at me calling her "little." She solves the case again and she's on her way back to Buckshaw.
mazza57's review against another edition
3.0
I am enjoying this series but it needs to come back to Britain and Buckshaw. It felt constrained in relation to other books in the series and I for one am glad Flavia is returning home.
chewbeccadolly's review against another edition
3.0
Not my favorite Flavia book, but it stands alone. It’s like that one episode in Stranger Things that dozens belong in the storyline much but shows great character development. Looking forward how this will come up in future books.
mikayladlewis's review against another edition
adventurous
informative
lighthearted
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? N/A
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.5
Flavia de Luce is such a comfort read for me. I love picking up these books for their easy to read, quirkiness from the point of view of the lovable Flavia. With this book not being in the familiar Bishops Lacey, there is a bit more worldbuilding in this novel and since Flavia doesn't have immediate access to her laboratory there is a little bit less chemistry. However, you get to learn more about Flavia as a character and who she is as she wrestles living in her mother's shadow. It was great to see her become a more rounded character yet Bradley doesn't let us forget that she is a 12 year old girl that sometimes feels over her head. Loved it and on to the next one!