Cathy C. (cathyskye) - , reviewed on 3/19/2022 + 2307 more book reviews

Helpful Score: 1

The only bad thing about turning the last page on a Dr. Ruth Galloway mystery by Elly Griffiths is knowing that you have an interminable wait for the next one, and The Locked Room is no exception.

While some readers wish to avoid books that deal with the pandemic, I like seeing how different parts of the world cope. For instance, I wasn't aware that during lockdown the British would stand on their doorsteps at a certain day and time each week to clap and show their support for carers. And that's not the only thing I learned, which is par for the course in an Elly Griffith mystery. I learned the background of the "Mary, Mary, Quite Contrary" nursery rhyme and was reminded once again that I really want to read more about the historical figure, Julian of Norwich.

There are some serious things happening to the cast members that fans of this series have come to know and love, and the mystery itself is a humdinger, filled with such excellent misdirection that I was led straight down the garden path. (I love it when that happens.) Nelson is investigating a series of deaths that, although initially thought to be suicides, just don't add up. For instance, why was one woman's room locked from the outside? And why would someone kill themselves right after putting dinner in the microwave to heat?

For me, the most chilling aspect of The Locked Room was something that I'd never considered-- how poisons within relationships can rise to the surface during something like lockdown. How fortunate I am to be highly compatible with-- and happily married to-- my husband!

Even if you're new to this series, don't be surprised if you read The Locked Room and have a tear in your eye at the overuse of exclamation points at the end. Among her fans, Elly Griffiths is well known for working her very special kind of magic.

Back to all reviews by this member
Back to all reviews of this book
Back to Book Reviews
Back to Book Details