Description (from cover):'Hailed as "a combination of Eloise and Sherlock Holmes" by The Boston Globe, Flavia de Luce returns in a much anticipated new Christmas mystery from award-winning and New York Times bestselling author Alan Bradley.
In spite of being ejected from Miss Bodycote's Female Academy in Canada, twelve-year-old Flavia de Luce is excited to be sailing home to England. But instead of a joyous homecoming, she is greeted on the docks with unfortunate news: Her father has fallen ill, and a hospital visit will have to wait while he rests. But with Flavia's blasted sisters and insufferable cousin underfoot, Buckshaw now seems both too empty--and not empty enough.
Only too eager to run an errand for the vicar's wife, Flavia hops on her trusty bicycle, Gladys, to deliver a message to a reclusive wood-carver. Finding the front door ajar, Flavia enters and stumbles upon the poor man's body hanging upside down on the back of his bedroom door. The only living creature in the house is a feline that shows little interest in the disturbing scene.
Curiosity may not kill this cat, but Flavia is energized at the prospect of a new investigation. It's amazing what the discovery of a corpse can do for one's spirits. But what awaits Flavia will shake her to the very core.'
My thoughts:
The Flavia de Luce series has been one that I have loved and followed over many years. I always anticipate the newest release and cannot wait to read it when it is released. Flavia is a character that the reader can relate to. Alan Bradley has a way with words and wit that make reading these books a pleasure. I simply cannot say enough good things about this series and author, you must simply read the books for yourself. I typically do not read young adult books, but this series is one that I return to over and over again. This series is like no other. The author is creative in his writing and the characters are such that they endear themselves on your heart.
Flavia has returned from her schooling in Canada. As she disembarks from the ship, she is greeted by Dogger and learns that her father is ill and in the hospital. Flavia wants to go visit him right away, but is told that she cannot. She distracts herself with her normal chemistry pursuits and when the vicar's wife asks her to run an errand, she jumps at the chance. When she arrives at the house to deliver a message, she stumbles across a murdered man hanging upside down on the back of the bedroom door. She investigates the scene in her typical "Flavia" way and then leaves letting the police determine their own investigation. Of course, Flavia is about ten steps ahead of the police and she sets out to discover who the victim was and why someone wanted him dead.
This book was a treat to read. It was refreshing and engaging. I won't say too much about this book, but I was shocked by the ending and I mean utterly shocked. This book ends with a cliffhanger and I simply cannot wait to read the next one.
Overall Rating: 5
Title: Thrice the Brinded Cat Hath Mew'd
Author: Alan Bradley
Series: Flavia de Luce Mystery #8
Publisher: Delacorte Press
Publication Date: September 20, 2016
Pages: 352
Genre: Historical Mystery
Get It: Amazon; Barnes & Noble
Disclaimer: This book was given to me by the publisher, through Netgalley, in exchange for my honest review. I reviewed this book without compensation of any kind. All thoughts and opinions are solely mine.
