A Rule Against Murder (Armand Gamache series)

by: Louise Penny

Published by: Minotaur Books

Reviewed by Kathy Johnson

This mystery is set in rustic and rural Canada. Chief Inspector Armand Gamache and his wife
Reine-Marie have just arrived at the sensational Manoir Bellechasse to celebrate their wedding anniversary. They have made this trek each year for more than thirty years during the middle of summer. Neither Armand nor Reine-Marie is upset when they find out one of the finer rooms was not reserved for them. For them it is exciting to arrive each year and be surprised with their sleeping arrangements. Although there are certain traditions they follow each year.

The wealthy Finney family has arrived to fill the rest of the Manoir for a family reunion. One couple from the family has not yet arrived. Armand and Reine-Marie are surprised by the late arrival, an acquaintance of theirs from home.

Author Louise Penny delves deep into the psychological makeup of a very dysfunctional family–a family that has a twisted view of reality. The reader must dig deep to see past the analysis each family member brings to the surface about their siblings.

An honor is paid to a past family member, and the murder of another member follows soon thereafter. With Chief Inspector Armand Gamache on the scene, who else to better solve the murder? The surrounding forest and lake may lend beauty to the setting, but murder has been committed. Isolation and a concern for the safety of those living there provide an added push to solve the murder as quickly as possible.

Small clues skip across the page for the reader to consider–and pass before the eyes of Gamache. Who will solve the mystery first, the reader or Gamache? Gird your mind for the race.

This is Louise Penny’s fourth novel in the Chief Inspector Gamache series. The makeup of Gamache is interesting to watch unfold. The joy in the relationship between Gamache and his wife is unique.

Armchair Interviews says: You may not be able to enjoy a stay at the luxurious Manoir Bellechasse but you are in for a treat as you follow Chief Inspector Gamache in his crime-solving mode.

Author’s Web site: http://www.LouisePenny.com