Elly Griffiths
Paperback
This is an excellent collection of short stories from the author of the Ruth Galloway mystery series. It was my ideal holiday read.
I’ve read all of the Galloway books and was chuffed to get some further news of my favourite characters (including Flint the cat). Fans will recognise folks from other of Griffiths’ series, including the appealing Harbinder Kaur (I’ve read all of those books too… what treats). She always gives an effective sense of place, which is essential for properly relaxing escapist reading in my view.
But this is a collection for every reader of mysteries, including those new to Griffiths’ work. I managed to read this snappily while vacationing in a heatwave, which made the Christmas story extra welcome. I am a strong believer in reading cold stories on hot days. It helped that I paired it with a trip to the outstanding Emma Stibbins’ exhibition Melting Ice Rising Tides, which was also nicely chilly.
A good friend introduced me to Elly Griffiths books, and I’ve introduced many other mystery fans to them since. She’s got a dagger, always a good sign…
[Review by Bethan]