Book 4

I loved the previous books and this was no exception. It is really we written and has a good balance of fun and sadness. I have to admit to shedding a tear or two whilst reading, but that shows how well it was written

It is always a joy to be reunited with Elizabeth, Joyce, Ron and Ibrahim, although it is fair to say that this particular story was a bit of an emotional rollercoaster. A friend of the Thursday Murder Club team is found murdered, and the foursome take it upon themselves to step in and solve his murder, much to the ire of the Police, particularly the National Crime Agency's Senior Investigating Officer, Jill Regan, who arrives to take the case off local police, more specifically friends of the TMC, Donna and Chris. Not that this is going to stop any of them, Chris and Donna included, sticking their noses in where they are, more officially this time, not wanted. Who could possibly want to murder a man who runs a second hand shop, and what does the NCA want with such a routine looking case? Well, as this is the Thursday Murder Club, it is almost certain that nothing is ever routine or straightforward. And that, along with the brilliant use of humour and Joyce's unintentionally witty observations, are part of what makes this series so special. As characters go, you couldn't find four more different and seemingly ill suited people as the murder club founders, and yet they absolutely work together. They understand each other, and have such a strong bond, which is all the more important this time around given that Joyce needs to step up and be more Elizabeth than Elizabeth this time around. And to be fair to her, she does a pretty good job. I love Joyce. She may not always seem the most aware of characters, with an overt kind of naivety that makes her endearing and makes the laughter flow, but there is a sharp mind in that head of hers and it is never more obvious than in this book. I am loving seeing the blossoming friendship between Ibrahim and Connie Johnson, who will be a familiar name if you've read the previous book. If not, don't despair as the author provides a very clear but not intrusive recap as to why Ibrahim finds himself counselling this very wily character. but then character, and developing those relationships, is what RIchard Osman is good at. That an humour, which is regularly on display in this book, as previously hard and notorious bad guys, fall victim to the Cooper Chase Quartet and their own particular brand of misdirection. And there is plenty of misdirection employed in this book. It it about drugs. Gang warfare? Fine art? All or none of the aforementioned? Well, you need to read the book to find out, but I think the reveal will surprise you, as it did me. I had all sorts of ideas about what might happen, about who the murderer might be, so much so that I missed what should probably have been obvious. But then with so many shady characters feeding through the pages, it's probably not too much of a surprise. But more than anything, and the reason why Joyce came to out Elizabeth Elizabeth, this is a book that is packed with emotion. If you are a long term reader of the books, then you will know Elizabeth and Stephen's story, and there are some scenes in this book that are so heavily packed with poignancy that you will likely find yourself with a lump in your throat as I did in mine. One chapter in particular is so beautifully written, so carefully handled, that more than the odd tear was shed. I am used to the laughter tears - Joyce elicits them every time - but this was something else entirely. A big bravo to Mr Osman as he hit these notes perfectly. Not over done, just expertly balanced and a delicate portrayal of a particularly brutal and unforgiving part of being human. It's kind of got me a little weepy again now, writing this, and if you have read the book you will understand. If you haven't, well, have some tissues handy. You will need them. A brilliantly paced, beautifully written and thoroughly entertaining addition to the series, but I can understand why a pause was necessary between that and the next book. It's right really the characters have earned it. But I can't wait for the next instalment. Thankfully, not that long to go.

Quite readable sequel.

Each book gets better and better. The first book out the series to make me cry too, poor Stephen 😭 Beautifully written, heartbreaking, funny, plenty of murders to solve. I absolutely love this gang, they all bring something to the team. Joyce is definitely my favourite, so funny and I love Alan 🐕 and how he is joining in with all the action. I look forward to joining the gang in the next book.

The wonderful combination of the Thursday Murder Club and their friends in the police excels yet again! Excellent weaving of lines of enquiry, new characters introduced and a sideline in internet romance fraud moves the plot along well, giving each character their moment to shine. The interjections by Joyce are a favourite of mine and, as I age, I fear I will become a ‘Joyce’ which is not that bad really is it?! I feel the pace at which events happen and conversations unfold really evokes those of that generation and I can see them all so clearly as it plays out. Having lost my mother to dementia after five years of seeing her decline, followed a few years later by her brother, to say nothing of losing my grandmother to it many years ago, I felt that the telling of Stephen’s condition was done really sensitively and although I shed a tear in their memory, I felt it was an appropriate line to include. I can’t wait for Richard’s next book in this series and to his new ones! A great read!

Every book is a gem in this series. Great characterisation and witty dialogue so what’s not to like?

It took me a few chapters to get into these books but not i am hooked. Good mix of characters and a strong story line. I like the older and UK specific references within the books.

A really good item. Very good value, was perfect.

So much more than a murder mystery though that in itself is so engaging i couldn't put the book down! As the story unfolded and the characters continue to evolve, I found myself holding back tears as a doctor who works with dementia patients and their families - Osman has a gift of balancing adventure, mystery and the heartfelt themes of the novel itself. I cant wait for the next book!

Thoroughly enjoyed, laughed out loud at times, got teary eyed at others. I love this whole Thursday Murder Club series. Richard Osman's characters come alive.

Un 4 eme livre qui reste fidèle au style des trois premier, plein d’humour anglais et une histoire vraiment sympa avec nos 4 retraités préférés.

Excellent read

Great book!