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Harbinder Kaur #4
The Last Word
Natalka and Edwin, whom we met in The Postscript Murders, are running a detective agency in Shoreham, Sussex. Despite a steady stream of minor cases, Natalka is frustrated, longing for a big juicy case such as murder to come the agency's way. Natalka is now living with dreamer, Benedict. But her Ukrainian mother Valentyna has joined them from her war-torn country and three's a crowd. It's annoying to have Valentyna in the tiny flat, cooking borscht and cleaning things that are already clean. To add to Natalka's irritation, Benedict and her mother get on brilliantly.
Then a murder case turns up. Local writer, Melody Chambers, is found dead and her family are convinced it is murder. Edwin, a big fan of the obit pages, thinks there's a link to the writer of Melody's obituary who pre-deceased his subject.
The trail leads Benedict and Edwin to a slightly sinister writers' retreat. When another writer is found dead, Edwin thinks that the clue lies in the words.
Seeking professional help, the amateur investigators turn to their friend, detective Harbinder Kaur, to find that they have stumbled on a plot that is stranger than fiction.
Then a murder case turns up. Local writer, Melody Chambers, is found dead and her family are convinced it is murder. Edwin, a big fan of the obit pages, thinks there's a link to the writer of Melody's obituary who pre-deceased his subject.
The trail leads Benedict and Edwin to a slightly sinister writers' retreat. When another writer is found dead, Edwin thinks that the clue lies in the words.
Seeking professional help, the amateur investigators turn to their friend, detective Harbinder Kaur, to find that they have stumbled on a plot that is stranger than fiction.
338 pages, Hardcover
First published January 30, 2024
About the author
Elly Griffiths
67 books8,404 followersElly Griffiths' Ruth Galloway novels take for their inspiration Elly's husband, who gave up a city job to train as an archaeologist, and her aunt who lives on the Norfolk coast and who filled her niece's head with the myths and legends of that area. Elly has two children and lives near Brighton. Though not her first novel, The Crossing Places is her first crime novel.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 709 reviews
March 6, 2024
The Last Word is considered part of the Harbinder Kaur series but it comes across as more of a standalone as Harbinder is more of a side character. Instead, the book focuses on Natalka, Edwin and Benedict, who featured in The Postscript Murders, the first book of the series.
Natalka and Edwin have a PI agency and are thrilled to finally get a case that’s not spying on a cheating husband. Two daughters want to prove their mother was murdered, specifically by their mother’s younger second husband. The mother was a successful author. Then, they’re asked to look into the suspicious death of another writer, which gets Natalka and Edwin thinking the deaths might be related, especially as another writer has also recently died. Edwin and Benedict take off for a writer’s retreat that all the writers had coincidentally attended at various times. This part of the plot was a bit convoluted, relies on a lot of coincidences and didn’t quite hang together for me. Griffiths even seems to recognize how many coincidences she’s using. “ “Coincidence is only another word for fate”, says Benedict. “I read that somewhere.””
The three characters are all fully developed with wonderful personalities. These were people I’d like to know. In fact, that is a key element of all Griffiths’ books, creating characters that feel so real I’d like to be friends with them. The chapters swing between the various POVs, which keeps the book moving at a steady pace.
Once again Griffiths has written a story filled with small elements of humor and the perfectly crafted phrase.
My thanks to Netgalley and Quercus Books for an advance copy of this. Ok.
Natalka and Edwin have a PI agency and are thrilled to finally get a case that’s not spying on a cheating husband. Two daughters want to prove their mother was murdered, specifically by their mother’s younger second husband. The mother was a successful author. Then, they’re asked to look into the suspicious death of another writer, which gets Natalka and Edwin thinking the deaths might be related, especially as another writer has also recently died. Edwin and Benedict take off for a writer’s retreat that all the writers had coincidentally attended at various times. This part of the plot was a bit convoluted, relies on a lot of coincidences and didn’t quite hang together for me. Griffiths even seems to recognize how many coincidences she’s using. “ “Coincidence is only another word for fate”, says Benedict. “I read that somewhere.””
The three characters are all fully developed with wonderful personalities. These were people I’d like to know. In fact, that is a key element of all Griffiths’ books, creating characters that feel so real I’d like to be friends with them. The chapters swing between the various POVs, which keeps the book moving at a steady pace.
Once again Griffiths has written a story filled with small elements of humor and the perfectly crafted phrase.
My thanks to Netgalley and Quercus Books for an advance copy of this. Ok.
May 7, 2024
3.5 stars. Cute addition to the series but way too many characters and too long. Worth reading though.
This is the fourth book in the Harbinder Kaur series, and although it mostly focuses on Natalka, Benedict, and Edwin (from book 2 in the series The Postscript Murders) Harbinder does make some appearances. Although you don't necessarily need to read the story in order, you will definitely miss out on the character development so I think you should start at the beginning.
Natalka and Edwin are private investigators now, and they have been hired by the daughters of a woman who recently passed away. The daughters believe their mother Melody, an author, was killed by their stepfather. In the course of their investigation, Natalka and Edwin discover that some other authors have died, some under mysterious circumstances. As they look further, more deaths occur.
I didn't enjoy this installment of the series as much as I have the others, but that is mainly because I really like the police procedural aspects and especially Harbinder, and this book didn't really have much of either of those. There are SO MANY characters, and there were times I was lost in the shuffle of who was who and who was related to who. And although I do overall like Benedict and Edwin, Natalka is a bit bristly and frustrating for me. The constant focus on how gorgeous and beautiful and out of Benedict's league she is gets grating.
I do like this series and will continue to read more of it, but I definitely like the books that feature Harbinder front and center rather than these other characters.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book, all opinions are my own.
This is the fourth book in the Harbinder Kaur series, and although it mostly focuses on Natalka, Benedict, and Edwin (from book 2 in the series The Postscript Murders) Harbinder does make some appearances. Although you don't necessarily need to read the story in order, you will definitely miss out on the character development so I think you should start at the beginning.
Natalka and Edwin are private investigators now, and they have been hired by the daughters of a woman who recently passed away. The daughters believe their mother Melody, an author, was killed by their stepfather. In the course of their investigation, Natalka and Edwin discover that some other authors have died, some under mysterious circumstances. As they look further, more deaths occur.
I didn't enjoy this installment of the series as much as I have the others, but that is mainly because I really like the police procedural aspects and especially Harbinder, and this book didn't really have much of either of those. There are SO MANY characters, and there were times I was lost in the shuffle of who was who and who was related to who. And although I do overall like Benedict and Edwin, Natalka is a bit bristly and frustrating for me. The constant focus on how gorgeous and beautiful and out of Benedict's league she is gets grating.
I do like this series and will continue to read more of it, but I definitely like the books that feature Harbinder front and center rather than these other characters.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book, all opinions are my own.
September 23, 2024
Conflicted on this book!!
PROS:
-The main characters are great, it’s helpful if you’ve read The Postscript Murders
- Edwin, 80 years plus and an interesting guy, loves literature and reading obits
- Benedict and his girlfriend Natalka (also known as the blond assassin) now have a private detective agency.
-DI Harbinder Kaur, she has learned to trust this group who helped her solve another case.
-The setting of the Writer’s Retreat, Battle House, was atmospheric with it’s hidden lake and forested walkways
-The premise of solving a series of murder cases that appear to be connected
CONS:
-The repetition in this book drove me bonkers. We heard the same things over again from each character
-The mystery was overshadowed by the characters themselves. This book was very much about the relationships between Edwin, Benedict and Natalka.
-The writing seemed convoluted, particularly all that occurred at Battle House
I have read a lot of the Ruth Galloway series and loved “Stranger Diaries”. This book is a much lighter read and not what I was expecting from this author.
I received an ARC of this novel from the publisher through Edelweiss. It was my pleasure to read and review this title.
PROS:
-The main characters are great, it’s helpful if you’ve read The Postscript Murders
- Edwin, 80 years plus and an interesting guy, loves literature and reading obits
- Benedict and his girlfriend Natalka (also known as the blond assassin) now have a private detective agency.
-DI Harbinder Kaur, she has learned to trust this group who helped her solve another case.
-The setting of the Writer’s Retreat, Battle House, was atmospheric with it’s hidden lake and forested walkways
-The premise of solving a series of murder cases that appear to be connected
CONS:
-The repetition in this book drove me bonkers. We heard the same things over again from each character
-The mystery was overshadowed by the characters themselves. This book was very much about the relationships between Edwin, Benedict and Natalka.
-The writing seemed convoluted, particularly all that occurred at Battle House
I have read a lot of the Ruth Galloway series and loved “Stranger Diaries”. This book is a much lighter read and not what I was expecting from this author.
I received an ARC of this novel from the publisher through Edelweiss. It was my pleasure to read and review this title.
August 14, 2024
“Read your own obituary notice; they say you live longer.” – James Joyce, Ulysses
It begins with the last word. (Hence: the title of the book!) Will the clue be the writing retreat? Am I getting ahead of myself? Or did the book title tell all? Maybe it all started with…
If only I hadn’t…
What could those words possibly mean?
But let us start at the beginning. Two sisters are beside themselves. Minnie and Harmony are convinced that their mother, Melody Chambers, a writer, has been murdered by her second husband, a pharmacist, Alan Franklin, who just happened to be younger than her, so that he could abscond with her estate. After all, it wasn’t meant for him. It was meant for them.
So, what does the mother’s murder have to do with a writing retreat? And, did you hear about all those women dying who belonged to a book club? Be careful ladies who belong to a book club!
Enter, an unlikely duo, elderly Edwin Fitzgerald and Natalka Kolisnyk, a young Ukrainian woman who run a detective agency with the assistance of her ex-monk boyfriend, Benedict Cole. With a cameo appearance from Detective Sergeant Harbinger Kaur. (For those who may be familiar or who don’t know DS Harbinger Kaur, she was first introduced in “The Stranger Diaries.” She is best known as a gay Sikh detective in West Sussex.)
Edwin and Natalka have been asked to uncover the “accidental death” of Minnie and Harmony’s mother as a possible murder. And, in order to do so, they must attend her last known locations. Hence, the writing retreat. And, this is where things get dicey. Lots of characters to keep track of and more murders to add to the growing list of things to solve.
So, who is the culprit and why? And, why are all these other people getting murdered, too?
Readers will have a good time trying to unravel this twisted tale that will have them turning pages to figure things out. If readers can be patient, it may lead them to a satisfactory end.
3.5 hesitant stars rounded up.
It begins with the last word. (Hence: the title of the book!) Will the clue be the writing retreat? Am I getting ahead of myself? Or did the book title tell all? Maybe it all started with…
If only I hadn’t…
What could those words possibly mean?
But let us start at the beginning. Two sisters are beside themselves. Minnie and Harmony are convinced that their mother, Melody Chambers, a writer, has been murdered by her second husband, a pharmacist, Alan Franklin, who just happened to be younger than her, so that he could abscond with her estate. After all, it wasn’t meant for him. It was meant for them.
So, what does the mother’s murder have to do with a writing retreat? And, did you hear about all those women dying who belonged to a book club? Be careful ladies who belong to a book club!
Enter, an unlikely duo, elderly Edwin Fitzgerald and Natalka Kolisnyk, a young Ukrainian woman who run a detective agency with the assistance of her ex-monk boyfriend, Benedict Cole. With a cameo appearance from Detective Sergeant Harbinger Kaur. (For those who may be familiar or who don’t know DS Harbinger Kaur, she was first introduced in “The Stranger Diaries.” She is best known as a gay Sikh detective in West Sussex.)
Edwin and Natalka have been asked to uncover the “accidental death” of Minnie and Harmony’s mother as a possible murder. And, in order to do so, they must attend her last known locations. Hence, the writing retreat. And, this is where things get dicey. Lots of characters to keep track of and more murders to add to the growing list of things to solve.
So, who is the culprit and why? And, why are all these other people getting murdered, too?
Readers will have a good time trying to unravel this twisted tale that will have them turning pages to figure things out. If readers can be patient, it may lead them to a satisfactory end.
3.5 hesitant stars rounded up.
September 26, 2024
The fourth book in the Harbinder Kaur series and the author finds a way to combine Harbinder with the lovely characters from earlier books, Natalka, Edwin and Benedict, even though she has moved to London.
It is a clever move and made the book a pleasure to read. The mystery is so involved that I am not going to even attempt a summary. There were many characters, a number of deaths and lots of red herrings. I did not spot the guilty party but I should have - I think I was just enjoying the characters and the story so much I did not notice the obvious signs.
This was a real pleasure to read with a very sweet ending. I hope to see more of Natalka et al in future Harbinder books.
It is a clever move and made the book a pleasure to read. The mystery is so involved that I am not going to even attempt a summary. There were many characters, a number of deaths and lots of red herrings. I did not spot the guilty party but I should have - I think I was just enjoying the characters and the story so much I did not notice the obvious signs.
This was a real pleasure to read with a very sweet ending. I hope to see more of Natalka et al in future Harbinder books.
April 13, 2024
I was disappointed, the mystery was lackluster to say the least, Harbinger absence was missed and there was too much religion in this book. As secondary characters Edwin, Natalka and Benedict are enjoyable but as main characters they were boring and lacked substance.
Elly Griffiths is one of my favorite writers, I love her Ruth Galloway series and truly enjoyed this series until now. Griffiths is a remarkable storyteller. She has a way of connecting all the subplots seamlessly until the end. That’s what was missing in this book, a solid plot and subplots that make sense. Harbinger like Ruth is such a great character that is why it was a pity not to include her in her own series.
Elly Griffiths is one of my favorite writers, I love her Ruth Galloway series and truly enjoyed this series until now. Griffiths is a remarkable storyteller. She has a way of connecting all the subplots seamlessly until the end. That’s what was missing in this book, a solid plot and subplots that make sense. Harbinger like Ruth is such a great character that is why it was a pity not to include her in her own series.
February 2, 2024
The Last Word is the fourth novel by award-winning British author, Elly Griffiths to feature Harbinder Kaur. At the K and F agency, Natalka Kolisnyk is excited to be hired to investigate a possible murder. Romance author, Melody Chambers had a heart attack, but her daughters believe her second husband murdered her. Coincidentally, her partner in K&F, Edwin Fitzgerald, who proclaims himself the oldest sleuth in the country, is engaging in his daily perusal of the obituaries, and notes that Melody’s was written by Malcolm Collins, himself deceased.
While Natalka’s investigations initially yield little of use, her life partner, Benedict Cole is asked by a friend from the seminary to look into the death of a country vicar who had a secret life as a romance novelist. Don(na) Parsons apparently also died of a heart attack. Meanwhile, one of DI Harbinder Kaur’s team mentions that the death of an elderly journalist turned true-crime writer was also in question. Each of these authors was fit and healthy, not a candidate for sudden cardiac problems.
Their investigation takes numerous paths, but Edwin happens on a common feature: all had attended, at some time, a writer’s retreat in the town of Battle. He also checks out more Malcolm Collins obits and discovers another potential death that might be unexplained.
Posing as aspiring writers, which Benedict secretly is, anyway, he and Edwin attend a weekend retreat at Battle House, intent on discovering something to help their cases along. The death of one of the attendees is quite a shock, but it does bring to their attention another similar death. But what is it about attending a writers’ retreat or a book club that turns out to be fatal?
Edwin finds himself carrying much of the latter stages of the investigation as Natalka is distracted by the presence of her mother in their tiny one-bedroom flat, and worries about her brother, returned to Ukraine to fight. Edwin may not be expecting to deal with an attempt on his own life, but he handles it admirably.
Readers of an earlier book in this series will be familiar with this quirky trio and their talent for solving murders, but this can easily be read as a stand-alone. Griffiths gives her readers a cleverly-plotted cosy mystery with plenty of twists and turns, a hefty body count, and a delightful ending. More of this cast is most definitely welcome.
This unbiased review is from an uncorrected proof copy provided by NetGalley and Quercus.
While Natalka’s investigations initially yield little of use, her life partner, Benedict Cole is asked by a friend from the seminary to look into the death of a country vicar who had a secret life as a romance novelist. Don(na) Parsons apparently also died of a heart attack. Meanwhile, one of DI Harbinder Kaur’s team mentions that the death of an elderly journalist turned true-crime writer was also in question. Each of these authors was fit and healthy, not a candidate for sudden cardiac problems.
Their investigation takes numerous paths, but Edwin happens on a common feature: all had attended, at some time, a writer’s retreat in the town of Battle. He also checks out more Malcolm Collins obits and discovers another potential death that might be unexplained.
Posing as aspiring writers, which Benedict secretly is, anyway, he and Edwin attend a weekend retreat at Battle House, intent on discovering something to help their cases along. The death of one of the attendees is quite a shock, but it does bring to their attention another similar death. But what is it about attending a writers’ retreat or a book club that turns out to be fatal?
Edwin finds himself carrying much of the latter stages of the investigation as Natalka is distracted by the presence of her mother in their tiny one-bedroom flat, and worries about her brother, returned to Ukraine to fight. Edwin may not be expecting to deal with an attempt on his own life, but he handles it admirably.
Readers of an earlier book in this series will be familiar with this quirky trio and their talent for solving murders, but this can easily be read as a stand-alone. Griffiths gives her readers a cleverly-plotted cosy mystery with plenty of twists and turns, a hefty body count, and a delightful ending. More of this cast is most definitely welcome.
This unbiased review is from an uncorrected proof copy provided by NetGalley and Quercus.
January 12, 2024
Natalka, a young Ukrainian woman, and Edwin, an older British gentleman, are private detectives in a small English seaside town. They are hired by two adult sisters who believe their mother's much younger husband killed their mother, a writer, even though the death is attributed officially to natural causes. Natalka's boyfriend, Benedict, who runs a coffee shop, signs up with Edwin to attend a writer's workshop which several writers who died suddenly have attended. Were all of these deaths by writers who have attended this workshop really be a coincidence? Harbinder Kaur, the gay female Sikh police officer from previous Griffiths novels, makes an appearance but the story is mainly about Benedict, Edwin, and Natalka. Thanks to the publisher and Edelweiss for the ARC.
March 21, 2024
The Last Word is listed under Ruth Galloway mysteries. At the beginning I was trying to see how this pertained to Ruth Galloway. I was disappointed as I have read this series from the beginning and looked forward to reading another adventure in this series. Putting that aside, I really enjoyed this book. The story takes place in the town of Shoreham-by Sea UK. There are three characters that make up the main characters. Benedict. (Benny) who was a monk and is now owner of a coffee shop called The Shack which is located near a beach; Edwin Fitzgerald partner in K & F Agency, which does investigations and Natalka Kolisnyk who is the other partner and Benedict's girlfriend. She also owns a care business. Her mother, Valentyna lives with her and Benedict. Her brother, Dmytro lives in Scotland. The three lived in Ukraine and escaped.
Charlie Walker (Chip) a veteran broadcaster and BBC producer who set-up Counterpoint Production Company died. Malcolm Collins wrote the obit for Charles. He also died. Melody Chambers, author of romance novels recently died. She is married to her second husband Alan Franklin a pharmacist. Melody's daughters Minim (Minnie) and Harmony come to the agency and ask them to investigate her husband. They believe that he killed her, He is 15 years younger. Everything was left to him including the dog. They show Natalka a notebook their mother wrote in. It says that Alan is going to kill her. They showed it to the police. Richard Frazer, a vicar came to Benedict about a priest Don Parsons that lived a double life. He wa s also Donna Parsons, a romance novelist. He was asked to leave the church recently died. Richard thinks that he was murdered. What's Natalka to look into it. Natalka and Edwin agreed to look into both requests. They call good friend, DI Harbinder Kaur to do some research for them.
Edwin and Natalka go and speak to Alan. He told them that Melody's children did not like him and he knew they were accusing him of killing their mother. She was also a friend of Malcolm Collins and was very upset when he died. Edwin finds info that both Don and Melody knew each other. They both did emails about their pets and both went on a writer's retreat lead by writer, Leonard Norris at Battle House. Edwin looks up Battle House and finds testimonials from Melody Chambers, Donna Parsons and Malcolm Collins.
Natalka brings two friends of Melody to the Shack and tells Benedict that Melody seemed very happy with her husband but did complain about her daughters always wanting money and having her babysit.
Harbinder got a case where an elderly woman named Eileen O'Rourke, was found on her kitchen floor dead of a heart attack. She was the author of the book, My Name is Jack. Her daughter, Felicity Briggs comes and speaks to DS Kim Manning saying she believes her mother was murdered. Harbinger goes to speak to her. Felicity has moved into her mother's house. After telling her what she believes she gives Harbinger one of her mother's books. When she gets back to the station and shows Kim the book. Kim gets upset when seeing the cover. Harbinger takes the book to her office. Reads the back and in very small print is a quote from Melody saying "Well-written and empathetic".
Edwin looks up Battle House and sees that there will be another session with only 8 people. Leonard Norris and Imogen Blythe will be their tutors. He talks Benedict into coming with him. Upon their arrival they meet the other authors.
This is where the story takes off which has too much to put on paper so I will leave it to the reader to enjoy with all the twists and turns to the exciting and unexpected ending.
The books ends with the wedding of Natalka and Benedict, I hope this becomes a series as I enjoyed the adventure.
Thank you NetGalley and Mariner Books for this ARC,
;
Charlie Walker (Chip) a veteran broadcaster and BBC producer who set-up Counterpoint Production Company died. Malcolm Collins wrote the obit for Charles. He also died. Melody Chambers, author of romance novels recently died. She is married to her second husband Alan Franklin a pharmacist. Melody's daughters Minim (Minnie) and Harmony come to the agency and ask them to investigate her husband. They believe that he killed her, He is 15 years younger. Everything was left to him including the dog. They show Natalka a notebook their mother wrote in. It says that Alan is going to kill her. They showed it to the police. Richard Frazer, a vicar came to Benedict about a priest Don Parsons that lived a double life. He wa s also Donna Parsons, a romance novelist. He was asked to leave the church recently died. Richard thinks that he was murdered. What's Natalka to look into it. Natalka and Edwin agreed to look into both requests. They call good friend, DI Harbinder Kaur to do some research for them.
Edwin and Natalka go and speak to Alan. He told them that Melody's children did not like him and he knew they were accusing him of killing their mother. She was also a friend of Malcolm Collins and was very upset when he died. Edwin finds info that both Don and Melody knew each other. They both did emails about their pets and both went on a writer's retreat lead by writer, Leonard Norris at Battle House. Edwin looks up Battle House and finds testimonials from Melody Chambers, Donna Parsons and Malcolm Collins.
Natalka brings two friends of Melody to the Shack and tells Benedict that Melody seemed very happy with her husband but did complain about her daughters always wanting money and having her babysit.
Harbinder got a case where an elderly woman named Eileen O'Rourke, was found on her kitchen floor dead of a heart attack. She was the author of the book, My Name is Jack. Her daughter, Felicity Briggs comes and speaks to DS Kim Manning saying she believes her mother was murdered. Harbinger goes to speak to her. Felicity has moved into her mother's house. After telling her what she believes she gives Harbinger one of her mother's books. When she gets back to the station and shows Kim the book. Kim gets upset when seeing the cover. Harbinger takes the book to her office. Reads the back and in very small print is a quote from Melody saying "Well-written and empathetic".
Edwin looks up Battle House and sees that there will be another session with only 8 people. Leonard Norris and Imogen Blythe will be their tutors. He talks Benedict into coming with him. Upon their arrival they meet the other authors.
This is where the story takes off which has too much to put on paper so I will leave it to the reader to enjoy with all the twists and turns to the exciting and unexpected ending.
The books ends with the wedding of Natalka and Benedict, I hope this becomes a series as I enjoyed the adventure.
Thank you NetGalley and Mariner Books for this ARC,
;
April 21, 2024
I loved this book! Just this year I picked up my first Elly Griffiths book and boy am I glad that I did. How have I gone so long without reading this amazing crime author. This book was just what I needed to get out of a semi book slump, nothing was appealing to me and I just wanted something good that I could get lost in.
It was wonderful to have a book that focused on Natalia, Edwin and Benny. DI Harbinder was there of course, but she was in the background. These 3 were the stars this time and I loved it. Hot on the case of a dead romance writer, they soon find themselves with many dead writers…. Coincidence? I think not. This book was fun to read, following the clues with these characters l of course I didn’t pick it 😅
A massive thanks to Quercus for my advanced copy of this book to read. Published on January 30th.
It was wonderful to have a book that focused on Natalia, Edwin and Benny. DI Harbinder was there of course, but she was in the background. These 3 were the stars this time and I loved it. Hot on the case of a dead romance writer, they soon find themselves with many dead writers…. Coincidence? I think not. This book was fun to read, following the clues with these characters l of course I didn’t pick it 😅
A massive thanks to Quercus for my advanced copy of this book to read. Published on January 30th.
July 7, 2024
3.75 stars
April 7, 2024
Although this is the officially 4th novel in the Harbinder Kaur series, Harbinder herself, now a Detective Inspector in London, only takes a cameo role. The main roles are taken by three characters first encountered in The Postscript Murders: Edwin Fitzgerald, a 84 year old former radio presenter, Natalka Kolisnyk, who came over from Ukraine ten years ago and runs a care agency and Natalka’s boyfriend Benedict Cole, barista and former monk.
Natalka and Edwin also run a detective agency and are asked to investigate the death of local writer Melody Chambers, whose two daughters suspect was murdered. They soon discover that Melody’s obituary writer also died under mysterious circumstances as have several other writers. All seem somehow connected to a somewhat sinister writers’ retreat called Battle House near Hastings. When Edwin and Benedict go undercover, themselves posing as aspiring writers, to Battle House yet another dead body turns up.
Despite being viewed somewhat suspiciously by the local constabulary, Natalka and Edwin manage to continue their investigation and unearth a complex and sinister scheme.
The small flat Natalka shares with Benedict is currently somewhat crowded, as her mother Valentyna, who has recently escaped Ukraine, is staying with them, Both are also extremely worried about Natalka’s brother Dmytro who has returned home to fight the Russians.
As always, Elly has managed to concoct an intriguing mystery with a cast of memorable characters and frequent social insights laced with wry humour.
Natalka and Edwin also run a detective agency and are asked to investigate the death of local writer Melody Chambers, whose two daughters suspect was murdered. They soon discover that Melody’s obituary writer also died under mysterious circumstances as have several other writers. All seem somehow connected to a somewhat sinister writers’ retreat called Battle House near Hastings. When Edwin and Benedict go undercover, themselves posing as aspiring writers, to Battle House yet another dead body turns up.
Despite being viewed somewhat suspiciously by the local constabulary, Natalka and Edwin manage to continue their investigation and unearth a complex and sinister scheme.
The small flat Natalka shares with Benedict is currently somewhat crowded, as her mother Valentyna, who has recently escaped Ukraine, is staying with them, Both are also extremely worried about Natalka’s brother Dmytro who has returned home to fight the Russians.
As always, Elly has managed to concoct an intriguing mystery with a cast of memorable characters and frequent social insights laced with wry humour.
March 6, 2024
Uninspiring and very dull. It is not a Harbinder book, she plays no part in the story apart from narrating the worst epilogue ever written.
There is a lot of repetition which made me feel the author was trying to achieve a word count set by the publishers. (Hence the epilogue)
A poor man’s Thursday Murder Club, Elly should give this idea up as she really missed the mark as to what makes those books so brilliant.
There is a lot of repetition which made me feel the author was trying to achieve a word count set by the publishers. (Hence the epilogue)
A poor man’s Thursday Murder Club, Elly should give this idea up as she really missed the mark as to what makes those books so brilliant.
May 3, 2024
2 stars (and that is me being generous)
So we have some some amateurs playing around as detectives and they are surprised when people are being murdered.
In addition there are so many details about these people's personal life and their opinions on different things ( politics, marriage, friendships etc) that are absolutely irrelevant. Plus the book is full of pages repeating the same thing.
It seems that Elly Griffiths gives a major and significant platform in her books (at least this series) to all kind of social and politic issues: women in police, different ethnicities, Ukraine and so on. These aspects have no relevance to the murder inquiries. They are stories about the personal life of the detectives and so on. But the importance they are given, especially in this book, are overshadowing the crime itself. This might be the end of the road for me and this series.
So we have some some amateurs playing around as detectives and they are surprised when people are being murdered.
In addition there are so many details about these people's personal life and their opinions on different things ( politics, marriage, friendships etc) that are absolutely irrelevant. Plus the book is full of pages repeating the same thing.
It seems that Elly Griffiths gives a major and significant platform in her books (at least this series) to all kind of social and politic issues: women in police, different ethnicities, Ukraine and so on. These aspects have no relevance to the murder inquiries. They are stories about the personal life of the detectives and so on. But the importance they are given, especially in this book, are overshadowing the crime itself. This might be the end of the road for me and this series.
December 6, 2023
You may remember Natalka, Edwin and Benedict from one of Elly Griffith's previous books, 'The Postscript Murders', where they so very nearly stole the show from DI Harbinder Kaur. I was delighted to discover the author decided to give them a book of their very own, even though it seems to be listed as the fourth book in the DI Kaur series.
Natalka and Edwin are now running a private detective agency. Their cases mostly consist of cheating spouses but if you know anything about Natalka, I'm sure you're not surprised to know she'd quite like something far juicier. Then a murder case turns up. Or does it? A local writer, Melody Chambers, is found dead in her kitchen of a suspected heart attack. Her children are convinced their stepfather murdered their mother. Sounds rather flimsy, doesn't it? Especially when you realise the kind of house Melody was living in, and how she left everything to her husband. But Edwin, who is a big fan of the obituary pages in the newspaper, thinks he might have found a link between Melody and someone who died before her.
Their sleuthing leads them to a writers' retreat. Edwin and Benedict decide to go undercover, but while there, there's another death. Who knew being an aspiring author could be this dangerous? The clues must be at the retreat somewhere. But will the trio find out what's going on and who's responsible before someone else is found dead?
There's so much more going on than just this murder mystery though. Natalka and Benedict have been living together for a while now. This was all going rather splendidly until Natalka's mother fled war-torn Ukraine and moved in with them. Three people in a one bedroom flat is just one too many. Meanwhile Natalka's brother is off fighting in the war and it's not always easy getting updates from him. I feel Griffiths tackled this topic extremely well. Obviously, Natalka is glad to know her mother is safe with her, but on the other hand she's also somewhat in the way. Who the heck vacuums at five o'clock in the morning?! And knowing the kind of person Natalka is, she'd probably prefer being able to go fight in this war with her brother.
If anyone can plot an intriguing mystery, Elly Griffiths can. But it’s the delightful cast of characters that stands out in 'The Last Word'. Each brings their own set of skills to this investigation. They're a joy to watch on their own, but they're formidable as a team. Benedict often comes across as rather insecure (surely Natalka is entirely out of his league, for instance) but he's more insightful and important to the team than he realises. Edwin, on the other hand, seems to ooze with confidence. He loves all things word related, and that will definitely come in handy this time around. Natalka, gosh, what to say about her? Hard as nails, slightly kooky, and boy, does she make me laugh. Unwillingly, I think.
As for Harbinder, she does make a few appearances but this book really isn't about her. Sometimes her help is needed but solving the case is very much up to Natalka, Edwin and Benedict. There's quite a bit to discover as the investigation continues. Edwin is convinced that multiple threads have to connect somehow, but I have to admit I didn't see it. Despite all the speculating and theorising on my part, I couldn't unravel this mystery at all. The truth turned out to be far more sinister than I anticipated.
As many have come to expect from Elly Griffiths, this is another incredibly well-plotted crime fiction novel. An intriguing mystery, wonderful characters who are also dealing with relatable issues, the beautiful setting of the writers' retreat, possibly a dash of romance, and sometimes even surprisingly witty ... there's so much to enjoy about 'The Last Word'. I thoroughly enjoyed my time with Natalka, Edwin and Benedict and I'm feeling very hopeful that there might be more to come from them some time in the future.
Natalka and Edwin are now running a private detective agency. Their cases mostly consist of cheating spouses but if you know anything about Natalka, I'm sure you're not surprised to know she'd quite like something far juicier. Then a murder case turns up. Or does it? A local writer, Melody Chambers, is found dead in her kitchen of a suspected heart attack. Her children are convinced their stepfather murdered their mother. Sounds rather flimsy, doesn't it? Especially when you realise the kind of house Melody was living in, and how she left everything to her husband. But Edwin, who is a big fan of the obituary pages in the newspaper, thinks he might have found a link between Melody and someone who died before her.
Their sleuthing leads them to a writers' retreat. Edwin and Benedict decide to go undercover, but while there, there's another death. Who knew being an aspiring author could be this dangerous? The clues must be at the retreat somewhere. But will the trio find out what's going on and who's responsible before someone else is found dead?
There's so much more going on than just this murder mystery though. Natalka and Benedict have been living together for a while now. This was all going rather splendidly until Natalka's mother fled war-torn Ukraine and moved in with them. Three people in a one bedroom flat is just one too many. Meanwhile Natalka's brother is off fighting in the war and it's not always easy getting updates from him. I feel Griffiths tackled this topic extremely well. Obviously, Natalka is glad to know her mother is safe with her, but on the other hand she's also somewhat in the way. Who the heck vacuums at five o'clock in the morning?! And knowing the kind of person Natalka is, she'd probably prefer being able to go fight in this war with her brother.
If anyone can plot an intriguing mystery, Elly Griffiths can. But it’s the delightful cast of characters that stands out in 'The Last Word'. Each brings their own set of skills to this investigation. They're a joy to watch on their own, but they're formidable as a team. Benedict often comes across as rather insecure (surely Natalka is entirely out of his league, for instance) but he's more insightful and important to the team than he realises. Edwin, on the other hand, seems to ooze with confidence. He loves all things word related, and that will definitely come in handy this time around. Natalka, gosh, what to say about her? Hard as nails, slightly kooky, and boy, does she make me laugh. Unwillingly, I think.
As for Harbinder, she does make a few appearances but this book really isn't about her. Sometimes her help is needed but solving the case is very much up to Natalka, Edwin and Benedict. There's quite a bit to discover as the investigation continues. Edwin is convinced that multiple threads have to connect somehow, but I have to admit I didn't see it. Despite all the speculating and theorising on my part, I couldn't unravel this mystery at all. The truth turned out to be far more sinister than I anticipated.
As many have come to expect from Elly Griffiths, this is another incredibly well-plotted crime fiction novel. An intriguing mystery, wonderful characters who are also dealing with relatable issues, the beautiful setting of the writers' retreat, possibly a dash of romance, and sometimes even surprisingly witty ... there's so much to enjoy about 'The Last Word'. I thoroughly enjoyed my time with Natalka, Edwin and Benedict and I'm feeling very hopeful that there might be more to come from them some time in the future.
April 28, 2024
I was really looking forward to this, having really enjoyed many of this author's previous books. But I found the ending disappointing and unrealistic. And it turned a little bit into a soap opera instead of a mystery.
May 10, 2024
I've read all of the Ruth Galloway and Harbinber Kaur books so far. (The magic-men series didn't do it for me.) This one is definitely the weakest. Too long, not at all believable, and features far too big a pile up of dead bodies.
That being said, I will definitely read Griffiths's next Harbinder book. Her hit rate is still pretty good.
That being said, I will definitely read Griffiths's next Harbinder book. Her hit rate is still pretty good.
February 15, 2024
Enjoyable but lacks the 'oomph' of the previous book in this series, and a tad surreal.
May 8, 2024
What an absolute load of rubbish, for starters meant to be a Harbinder Kaur book, she is only in it for 10 mins and not working the case!
Too much talk of racism in the police, this is the 4th book we get the idea 🙄 Yes we know Natalka is from Ukraine and there is a war going on but is this really relevant, no! We know Edwin is gay, how many more times do you need to tell us? Too much talk of COVID! Did you know Benedict used to be a monk, how many times do you need to mention this?
The reason for the murders was stupid and the amount of murderers was ridiculous.
Too many suspects and the most boring story ever, will be the last Elly Griffiths book I read.
Too much talk of racism in the police, this is the 4th book we get the idea 🙄 Yes we know Natalka is from Ukraine and there is a war going on but is this really relevant, no! We know Edwin is gay, how many more times do you need to tell us? Too much talk of COVID! Did you know Benedict used to be a monk, how many times do you need to mention this?
The reason for the murders was stupid and the amount of murderers was ridiculous.
Too many suspects and the most boring story ever, will be the last Elly Griffiths book I read.
April 27, 2024
I love this series but this was such a disappointment. The mystery is somehow both complicated and boring at the same time and Harbinder is a minor character in this so we lose her sense of dry wit entirely. I usually devour these books in hours and this one took me two days to finish.
July 15, 2024
Well, I finally found a reduced price for this book allowing me to purchase it for $1.99 from Amazon. I did not enjoy this book at all. I was away from laptop and then had to watch Wimbledon and other stuff and cannot give adequate, accurate review due to my memory problems I am having. I was looking forward to it due to so many favorable reviews, but no.
February 29, 2024
Disappointed
After being drawn into the fascinating world of Doctor Ruth Galloway, Cathbad and friends plus the. atmospheric Norfolk settings in Elly Griffiths previous books I found this novel and it's characters boring and chsrmless. I'm usually sad to finish her books but I'm glad to see the back of it
After being drawn into the fascinating world of Doctor Ruth Galloway, Cathbad and friends plus the. atmospheric Norfolk settings in Elly Griffiths previous books I found this novel and it's characters boring and chsrmless. I'm usually sad to finish her books but I'm glad to see the back of it
May 3, 2024
The Last Word by Elly Griffiths. (CD)
I'm a huge fan of the Ruth Galloway series as well as the newer Harbindur Kaur series. Perhaps I had been expecting too much from this author, but this book was a disappointment for me. I was unable to get involved in the characters or anything in general during the reading of this book. Hopefully, this was just a fluke and the next R.G. will arrive to save the day.
Sorry to say I cannot recommend this book as I have the other books by this author.
I'm a huge fan of the Ruth Galloway series as well as the newer Harbindur Kaur series. Perhaps I had been expecting too much from this author, but this book was a disappointment for me. I was unable to get involved in the characters or anything in general during the reading of this book. Hopefully, this was just a fluke and the next R.G. will arrive to save the day.
Sorry to say I cannot recommend this book as I have the other books by this author.
August 22, 2024
First, let me say this...
I sometimes keep what I call a 'cue card,' with names on it, places, things I'm apt to forget as I read - or which might confuse me. I have been doing this ALL my life, so it's not a sign of age. At any rate, with this book, three separate index cards: 1. Names of main characters at start of book and persons who possibly have 'come to harm.' 2. Names of police and their various titles, positions, their boss's names, etc. (Location is England, so we have various 'detective' this and that.) 3. Names of persons at a writer's retreat. There's also a book club where some of these and those characters are present, but I refuse to write four cards. Now, use the cards as bookmarks...
The story of a woman who claims her mother's death wasn't accidental, that she was killed by her (younger) husband. Mother was a well-known writer, comfortable living - did husband kill to gain her money, property, etc?
Secondly, the police don't buy it - case is on a back burner. So enter two amateur detectives and the partner/live-in love interest of one of them. This gets heavy on characters FAST.
(An aside: some of these characters appeared in earlier volumes in this series, so it does help to have read books 1-3, but I still needed some help sorting everybody out.)
Then there are other 'mysterious' deaths, and the three amateurs, with some help from a police friend - who happens to female, a Sikh and gay - they go about trying to sort out what's what, who's who. And me, I'm wondering why the official investigators aren't doing more official investigating? (You can get lost in this book. Do not read anything else at the same time.)
There's also subplots galore, including one that involves the older amateur detective and his interest in a fellow he meets at book club - and another with the younger amateur detective, who's Ukrainian, worrying about her brother off fighting in the war.
There's actually two pages of 'suspects' - involving a different murder - with descriptions, and I have to think this was not only to help the reader - but the writer of this book, too!
And the ending, which attempts to stuff everything between two slices of bread like a giant sloppy joe or something - it's a mess. Loose ends galore. And yet, because I do like the MAIN characters, I'll probably read the next book - if there is one - because the strength of this series...
The Characters, even though sometimes there are far too many of them.
Three stars
I sometimes keep what I call a 'cue card,' with names on it, places, things I'm apt to forget as I read - or which might confuse me. I have been doing this ALL my life, so it's not a sign of age. At any rate, with this book, three separate index cards: 1. Names of main characters at start of book and persons who possibly have 'come to harm.' 2. Names of police and their various titles, positions, their boss's names, etc. (Location is England, so we have various 'detective' this and that.) 3. Names of persons at a writer's retreat. There's also a book club where some of these and those characters are present, but I refuse to write four cards. Now, use the cards as bookmarks...
The story of a woman who claims her mother's death wasn't accidental, that she was killed by her (younger) husband. Mother was a well-known writer, comfortable living - did husband kill to gain her money, property, etc?
Secondly, the police don't buy it - case is on a back burner. So enter two amateur detectives and the partner/live-in love interest of one of them. This gets heavy on characters FAST.
(An aside: some of these characters appeared in earlier volumes in this series, so it does help to have read books 1-3, but I still needed some help sorting everybody out.)
Then there are other 'mysterious' deaths, and the three amateurs, with some help from a police friend - who happens to female, a Sikh and gay - they go about trying to sort out what's what, who's who. And me, I'm wondering why the official investigators aren't doing more official investigating? (You can get lost in this book. Do not read anything else at the same time.)
There's also subplots galore, including one that involves the older amateur detective and his interest in a fellow he meets at book club - and another with the younger amateur detective, who's Ukrainian, worrying about her brother off fighting in the war.
There's actually two pages of 'suspects' - involving a different murder - with descriptions, and I have to think this was not only to help the reader - but the writer of this book, too!
And the ending, which attempts to stuff everything between two slices of bread like a giant sloppy joe or something - it's a mess. Loose ends galore. And yet, because I do like the MAIN characters, I'll probably read the next book - if there is one - because the strength of this series...
The Characters, even though sometimes there are far too many of them.
Three stars
July 15, 2024
The daughters of a deceased writer, Melody, hire Edwin and Natalka to investigate their mother's death. They believe Melody's much younger husband, a pharmacist, is responsible for her untimely demise and has hijacked their inheritance. However, Natalka and Edwin suspect there is a connection to a writing retreat Melody attended as she is not the only author to suffer a premature death. Edwin and Benedict, Natasha's boyfriend, infiltrate the retreat under false pretenses to continue their investigation.
Although this is the fourth book in the Harbinder Kaur series, Harbinder is essentially a side character this time out. I was disappointed as she is a character I enjoy. Having Natalka and Edwin investigate pushes this into cozy mystery territory as neither has any professional background in this field. Elly Griffiths' characters are entertaining, there are just too many in this book and my interest flagged. The book was a middle of the road read for me, here's hoping the next one will feature Harbinder.
Although this is the fourth book in the Harbinder Kaur series, Harbinder is essentially a side character this time out. I was disappointed as she is a character I enjoy. Having Natalka and Edwin investigate pushes this into cozy mystery territory as neither has any professional background in this field. Elly Griffiths' characters are entertaining, there are just too many in this book and my interest flagged. The book was a middle of the road read for me, here's hoping the next one will feature Harbinder.
December 23, 2023
I came to this unaware that it was a spinoff from a previous book but found it perfectly readable as a standalone and an absolute delight in both content and style.
A cosy murder mystery, the story revolves around the detective agency set up by Natalka and Edwin from Griffiths’ The Postscript Murders, and a case they’re asked to take on involving the suspicious death of a famous romance writer. It’s exactly the kind of juicy investigation that Natalka loves to get her teeth into, and she quickly gets her partner Benedict involved in the sleuthing as well.
What follows, as Edwin and Benedict go incognito to a weekend writers’ retreat, and more deaths ensue, is a brilliant Christie-esqe tale of deception, betrayal and greed.
If you’ve read Griffiths, you’ll know that she’s an expert at weaving intricate plots, and here is no exception. It is further complicated by the large number of suspects; namely, all the participants at the retreat. I would have found it hard to keep track of them all, if not for Benedict’s compulsive list making, which provided a useful and frequently updated bio on each one.
For me, though, the highlight of this book, as indeed with Griffiths’ Ruth Galloway series, is the characters. In Natalka, Benedict and Edwin, she has created an unlikely but lovable trio, each with a personal story that is equally as compelling as the main plot. I hope we get to meet up with them and another investigation soon.
A cosy murder mystery, the story revolves around the detective agency set up by Natalka and Edwin from Griffiths’ The Postscript Murders, and a case they’re asked to take on involving the suspicious death of a famous romance writer. It’s exactly the kind of juicy investigation that Natalka loves to get her teeth into, and she quickly gets her partner Benedict involved in the sleuthing as well.
What follows, as Edwin and Benedict go incognito to a weekend writers’ retreat, and more deaths ensue, is a brilliant Christie-esqe tale of deception, betrayal and greed.
If you’ve read Griffiths, you’ll know that she’s an expert at weaving intricate plots, and here is no exception. It is further complicated by the large number of suspects; namely, all the participants at the retreat. I would have found it hard to keep track of them all, if not for Benedict’s compulsive list making, which provided a useful and frequently updated bio on each one.
For me, though, the highlight of this book, as indeed with Griffiths’ Ruth Galloway series, is the characters. In Natalka, Benedict and Edwin, she has created an unlikely but lovable trio, each with a personal story that is equally as compelling as the main plot. I hope we get to meet up with them and another investigation soon.
January 24, 2024
Brilliant stuff! We're back in Shoreham with the old gang from The Postscript Murders and shenanigans are afoot!
Natalka and Edwin are now running a private investigations agency and have been engaged to look into the death of a local author. They rope in ex-monk coffee-shop owner Benedict into the investigation, then more suspicious circumstances arise at a writing retreat and they are all in the thick of a mystery.
It was lovely to spend time with the old characters and I especially enjoyed the ending. A recommended read for lovers of The Postscript Murders.
Natalka and Edwin are now running a private investigations agency and have been engaged to look into the death of a local author. They rope in ex-monk coffee-shop owner Benedict into the investigation, then more suspicious circumstances arise at a writing retreat and they are all in the thick of a mystery.
It was lovely to spend time with the old characters and I especially enjoyed the ending. A recommended read for lovers of The Postscript Murders.
April 25, 2024
The book felt like a poor imitation of Thursday murder club. The number of characters was mind boggling and the author herself must have realised it hence the repetition of suspect list. The plot was weak and Harbinder only had a supporting role. Could be given a miss.
February 13, 2024
The crimes are not totally convincing, but this is a nice and cosy read.
February 16, 2024
Quite an interesting addition to the Harbiner Kaur series, The Last Word was a book I found myself reading compulsively till I reached the end. This time, we are back to Shoreham, and Harbinder plays second fiddle to the PI team of Natalka, Benedict and Edwin whom we have already met in book 2 of the series.
The trio get involved in a case that seems to be getting more and more sinister as the book progresses. What begins with an obituary in the newspaper leads the trio to look into the deaths of various writers that have been officially ruled as natural, but there's seemingly more to them. There's a writers' group and a writers' retreat along with the strong character development of the three investigators.
After a slight let-down in book 3, I quite enjoyed book 4 and would definitely recommend it.
The trio get involved in a case that seems to be getting more and more sinister as the book progresses. What begins with an obituary in the newspaper leads the trio to look into the deaths of various writers that have been officially ruled as natural, but there's seemingly more to them. There's a writers' group and a writers' retreat along with the strong character development of the three investigators.
After a slight let-down in book 3, I quite enjoyed book 4 and would definitely recommend it.
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