A review by purplelake
An Elderly Lady Is Up to No Good by Helene Tursten

adventurous dark funny lighthearted mysterious medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Strong character development? No
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? No
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.75

A little old lady who commits murder.

At times the translation is a bit awkward, but not enough to impact the story. The time difference between the stories, not being in strict chronological order, can lead to some confusion at fist. Specifically Maud’s comments about visiting the spa. However, the separated stories makes for a brilliant set-up/punchline structure. The stories all share the commonality of

Maud using her advanced age and unspoiled mind and body to get away with literal murder

, but each story takes a new spin on Maud’s character. I found Maud herself a thoroughly lovable character, not despite of, but because of her flaws. Her character being such a deviation from the norm of the genre also draws you into the story. The book’s twists makes for a darkly charming take on the mystery genre, even across cultures and languages.

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Content Warnings

Graphic: Death, Gore, Mental illness, Panic attacks/disorders, Toxic relationship, Violence, Blood, and Murder

Moderate: Alcoholism, Domestic abuse, Infidelity, Physical abuse, Dementia, Death of parent, and Alcohol

Minor: Cursing, Grief, and Car accident