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Flavia de Luce #11
What Time the Sexton's Spade Doth Rust
The beloved series returns as Flavia de Luce, along with her pestilent younger cousin, investigates the murder of a former public hangman and uncovers secrets that bring the greatest shock of her life.Flavia de Luce has taken on the mentorship of her odious, moon-faced cousin Undine, who has come to live at Buckshaw following the death of her mother. Undine's main talent, aside from cultivating disgusting habits, seems to be raising Flavia's dander, although in her best moments she shows potential for trespassing, trickery, and other assorted mayhems.When Major Greyleigh, a local recluse and former hangman, is found dead from a breakfast of poisonous mushrooms, suspicion falls on the de Luce family's longtime cook, Mrs. Mullet. After all, wasn't it she who picked the mushrooms, cooked the omelette, and served it to Greyleigh in the moments before his death? “I have to admit,� says Flavia, an expert in the chemical nature of poisons, “that I’d been praying to God for a jolly good, old-fashioned mushroom poisoning. Not that I wanted anyone to die, but why give a girl a gift such as mine without giving her the opportunity to use it?”But Flavia knows the beloved Mrs. Mullet is innocent. Together with Dogger, estate gardener and partner-in-crime, and the obnoxious Undine, she sets out to find the real killer and clear Mrs. Mullet's good name. Little does she know that following the case's twists and turns will lead her to a most surprising discovery—one with the power to upend her entire life.
288 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 3, 2024
708 people are currently reading
12.3k people want to read
About the author
Alan Bradley
26books8,490followersLibrarian Note: There is more than one author in the ŷ database with this name.
With an education in electronic engineering, Alan worked at numerous radio and television stations in Ontario, and at Ryerson Polytechnical Institute (now Ryerson University) in Toronto, before becoming Director of Television Engineering in the media centre at the University of Saskatchewan in Saskatoon, where he remained for 25 years before taking early retirement to write in 1994.
He became the first President of the Saskatoon Writers, and a founding member of the Saskatchewan Writers Guild. His children's stories were published in The Canadian Children's Annual, and his short story, Meet Miss Mullen, was the first recipient of the Saskatchewan Writers Guild Award for Children's Literature.
For a number of years, he regularly taught Script Writing and Television Production courses at the University of Saskatchewan (Extension Division) at both beginner and advanced levels.
His fiction has been published in literary journals and he has given many public readings in schools and galleries. His short stories have been broadcast by CBC Radio.
He was a founding member of The Casebook of Saskatoon, a society devoted to the study of Sherlock Holmes and Sherlockian writings. Here, he met the late Dr. William A.S. Sarjeant, with whom he collaborated on their classic book, Ms Holmes of Baker Street. This work put forth the startling theory that the Great Detective was a woman, and was greeted upon publication with what has been described as "a firestorm of controversy".
The release of Ms. Holmes resulted in national media coverage, with the authors embarking upon an extensive series of interviews, radio and television appearances, and a public debate at Toronto's Harbourfront. His lifestyle and humorous pieces have appeared in The Globe and Mail and The National Post.
His book The Shoebox Bible (McClelland and Stewart, 2006) has been compared with Tuesdays With Morrie and Mr. God, This is Anna.
In July of 2007 he won the Debut Dagger Award of the (British) Crimewriter's Association for his novel The Sweetness at the Bottom of the Pie, the first of a series featuring eleven year old Flavia de Luce, which has since won the 2009 Agatha Award for Best First Novel,the 2010 Dilys Award,the Spotted Owl Award, and the 2010 Arthur Ellis Award for Best First Novel.
The Sweetness at the Bottom of the Pie has also been nominated for the Macavity, the Barry, and the Arthur Awards.
Alan Bradley lives in Malta with his wife Shirley and two calculating cats.
With an education in electronic engineering, Alan worked at numerous radio and television stations in Ontario, and at Ryerson Polytechnical Institute (now Ryerson University) in Toronto, before becoming Director of Television Engineering in the media centre at the University of Saskatchewan in Saskatoon, where he remained for 25 years before taking early retirement to write in 1994.
He became the first President of the Saskatoon Writers, and a founding member of the Saskatchewan Writers Guild. His children's stories were published in The Canadian Children's Annual, and his short story, Meet Miss Mullen, was the first recipient of the Saskatchewan Writers Guild Award for Children's Literature.
For a number of years, he regularly taught Script Writing and Television Production courses at the University of Saskatchewan (Extension Division) at both beginner and advanced levels.
His fiction has been published in literary journals and he has given many public readings in schools and galleries. His short stories have been broadcast by CBC Radio.
He was a founding member of The Casebook of Saskatoon, a society devoted to the study of Sherlock Holmes and Sherlockian writings. Here, he met the late Dr. William A.S. Sarjeant, with whom he collaborated on their classic book, Ms Holmes of Baker Street. This work put forth the startling theory that the Great Detective was a woman, and was greeted upon publication with what has been described as "a firestorm of controversy".
The release of Ms. Holmes resulted in national media coverage, with the authors embarking upon an extensive series of interviews, radio and television appearances, and a public debate at Toronto's Harbourfront. His lifestyle and humorous pieces have appeared in The Globe and Mail and The National Post.
His book The Shoebox Bible (McClelland and Stewart, 2006) has been compared with Tuesdays With Morrie and Mr. God, This is Anna.
In July of 2007 he won the Debut Dagger Award of the (British) Crimewriter's Association for his novel The Sweetness at the Bottom of the Pie, the first of a series featuring eleven year old Flavia de Luce, which has since won the 2009 Agatha Award for Best First Novel,the 2010 Dilys Award,the Spotted Owl Award, and the 2010 Arthur Ellis Award for Best First Novel.
The Sweetness at the Bottom of the Pie has also been nominated for the Macavity, the Barry, and the Arthur Awards.
Alan Bradley lives in Malta with his wife Shirley and two calculating cats.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,290 reviews
May 27, 2024
What Time the Sexton's Spade Doth Rust (A Flavia de Luce Novel) is a somewhat unexpected treat since the last book in Bradley’s Flavia de Luce series appeared five years ago and was announced as the final one. What a wonderful surprise to once again be with Flavia, amateur sleuth and chemist. She now 12 and beginning to shift into a more adult view of herself and the world. There are definite glimmers of the woman she will one day become. Personally, I prefer the viewpoint of children, when well-written as Flavia certainly is. I would like her to stay 11 forever. Luckily, she is as rambunctious, fresh (in both senses of mouthy and unexpected) and intelligent as ever. In the course of the book, we see her growing awareness of how unpredictable and complicated life can become as she negotiates entering adolescence largely on her own.
Her only adult guides are the wise, loving, but war-scarred Dogger and the housekeeper Mrs. Mullet. There is also a cheeky and annoying child, Undine, for whom she is reluctantly responsible.
There are mysteries within mysteries within more mysteries in the book which is more complex than previous ones while equally entertaining. Flavia is both wise and innocent—although she becomes much less innocent in the course of the story which is darker than the other books in this series.
Flavia continues to outwit the police with the aid of the feisty (and always dusty) Undine. There is a sad undercurrent to this child who is in many ways alone much of the time with only her intelligence and interest in the world to keep her company.
A neighbor, little known by the community is found dead in his kitchen and suspicion falls on Flavia’s beloved Mrs. Mullet. Flavia is more motivated than ever to solve this case and clear the housekeeper. She uses all her skills and intelligence assisted gently by her friend Dogger and less gently (and despite Flavia’s discouragement) semi-ward, Undine.
Bradley has created an engaging and intelligent mystery series, led by an engaging and intelligent heroine. The book reads quickly and is hugely entertaining. The resolution of this story, however, was (to me at least) unexpected and complicated. While not diminishing my enjoyment, I was somewhat saddened by some of the unexpected shifts in Flavia’s experience of the world which were not happy ones. However, Flavia’s charm and determination to live her life the way she wants to keeps me happy and hopeful that she will navigate the complex situations of her life—and perhaps all lives—successfully.
Thanks to Netgalley and Random House Publishing Group - Ballantine | Bantam and to author Alan Bradley for giving me this book in exchange for an honest review.
Her only adult guides are the wise, loving, but war-scarred Dogger and the housekeeper Mrs. Mullet. There is also a cheeky and annoying child, Undine, for whom she is reluctantly responsible.
There are mysteries within mysteries within more mysteries in the book which is more complex than previous ones while equally entertaining. Flavia is both wise and innocent—although she becomes much less innocent in the course of the story which is darker than the other books in this series.
Flavia continues to outwit the police with the aid of the feisty (and always dusty) Undine. There is a sad undercurrent to this child who is in many ways alone much of the time with only her intelligence and interest in the world to keep her company.
A neighbor, little known by the community is found dead in his kitchen and suspicion falls on Flavia’s beloved Mrs. Mullet. Flavia is more motivated than ever to solve this case and clear the housekeeper. She uses all her skills and intelligence assisted gently by her friend Dogger and less gently (and despite Flavia’s discouragement) semi-ward, Undine.
Bradley has created an engaging and intelligent mystery series, led by an engaging and intelligent heroine. The book reads quickly and is hugely entertaining. The resolution of this story, however, was (to me at least) unexpected and complicated. While not diminishing my enjoyment, I was somewhat saddened by some of the unexpected shifts in Flavia’s experience of the world which were not happy ones. However, Flavia’s charm and determination to live her life the way she wants to keeps me happy and hopeful that she will navigate the complex situations of her life—and perhaps all lives—successfully.
Thanks to Netgalley and Random House Publishing Group - Ballantine | Bantam and to author Alan Bradley for giving me this book in exchange for an honest review.
September 8, 2024
Strong feelings ahead.
First, there has been 6 years between this and the last book. There are details of the big story that have dropped from my head. I really want to know why now another book? We should might maybe have let it rest.
Second, Flavia is on the cusp of womanhood. Alan Bradley does not know what to do with Flavia now. Another good reason to have let this series rest.
Third, mushrooms play a significant part in the story (not a spoiler). Based on a plot twist at about 75%, I would say the author was SMOKING MUSHROOMS while contriving this plot line. I won’t say more.
Very last, the three stars are earned because I could basically read a whole entire story of mushroom smoking silliness just to be a party to Flavia’s and Dogger’s conversations in the greenhouse.
Dogger is one of the best literary characters I have the pleasure to know. He and Gamache are at my dinner party for 5.
Flavia is hilarious in her inner dialogue. She also is one of my top book friends. If I’m having a girl tea party for five, she and Anne Shirley have been dispatched invites already.
So, you see, the series is left open for future books, and I will keep reading if only for Dogger and Flavia.
First, there has been 6 years between this and the last book. There are details of the big story that have dropped from my head. I really want to know why now another book? We should might maybe have let it rest.
Second, Flavia is on the cusp of womanhood. Alan Bradley does not know what to do with Flavia now. Another good reason to have let this series rest.
Third, mushrooms play a significant part in the story (not a spoiler). Based on a plot twist at about 75%, I would say the author was SMOKING MUSHROOMS while contriving this plot line. I won’t say more.
Very last, the three stars are earned because I could basically read a whole entire story of mushroom smoking silliness just to be a party to Flavia’s and Dogger’s conversations in the greenhouse.
Dogger is one of the best literary characters I have the pleasure to know. He and Gamache are at my dinner party for 5.
Flavia is hilarious in her inner dialogue. She also is one of my top book friends. If I’m having a girl tea party for five, she and Anne Shirley have been dispatched invites already.
So, you see, the series is left open for future books, and I will keep reading if only for Dogger and Flavia.
June 9, 2024
4.5 stars. Spoiler alert!
I want to thank Netgalley and Random House Canada for the advance copy of Alan Bradley's newest addition, the 11th book in the Flavia de Luce series. This was a surprise, as the previous book, released five years ago, was reported to be the final one in the series. Flavia is a 12-year-old prodigy who delights in her ability as an amateur sleuth and her expertise in chemistry, especially when murder is involved.
Flavia revels in crime; the more vile and gross the scene, the more she enjoys it. For those who have not had the pleasure of being acquainted with Flavia in print yet, here are some of her thoughts expressed in an earlier book:
(A friend remarks that it must have been a shock to find the body. "Yes," I said, "it was ghastly. I'd rather not think about it."
I was fibbing, of course. How I tell ..... that finding another dead body was everything but dreadful? On the contrary, It was thrilling; it was exciting; it was invigorating, to say nothing of electrifying and, above all, satisfying. How could I tell the dear man that murder made me feel so gloriously alive?)
Flavia takes pride in solving killings, often before the local police. Her skill in chemical analysis from crime scenes is often a factor. She is becoming rather conceited by her skills. I find the exploits of Flavia a joy to read, but if met in real life, she would be insufferably annoying.
Flavia is now an orphan and has inherited Buchshaw Manor, where she grew up. Her older sisters, Feely (Ophelia), married and moved away, and Daffy (Daphne), always immersed in a book, will soon attend University. She must now contend with running a large property at a young age. Luckily, she has the dependable help of two people who are her dedicated friends. There is Mrs. Mullet, the longtime cook and housekeeper. She has a secret history and a jealous husband. The groundskeeper and handyman, Dogget, has proven to be a knowledgeable and insightful partner in her crime investigations. He suffers from occasional PTSD from his time in WW2. Her cousin, the younger Undine, joined the household after becoming an orphan.
The child is obnoxious, loud, and crude. Flavia is annoyed with her ward's presence and embarrassing behaviour but tolerates and even loves her for interfering in her investigations through her ability to trespass, steal evidence and her observations. Undine is a mini-me of Flavia but lacks her older cousin's restraint. Flavia is often urged to get emotional and behavioural counselling for Undine.
Flavia inserts herself into the investigation of the murder of Major Greyleigh, a nearby recluse and former hangman. The police are having little success with the case, and their suspicion falls on Flavia's friend and housekeeper, Mrs. Mullet. The Major was poisoned and died after being served a breakfast of mushrooms picked and cooked by Mrs. Mullet. Flavia always wanted to do a chemical analysis of poisoned mushrooms and other foodstuffs and is intent on finding the woman innocent.
Her scientific skills and clues lead Flavia deep into a wide-ranging secret conspiracy whose solution is complex and convoluted. I wish the plot had been tighter and less confusing.
I am in awe of the erudite author's literary talents. His use of words is a delight and adds to the enjoyment of the narrative.
The suspense becomes intense and frightening for Flavia. She is led through a series of dark tunnels built under a nearby American military base. What she learns is shocking and a surprise to both Flavia and the reader.
Highly recommended to fans of Flavia de Luce and others who might enjoy this dark mystery. The book will be published on September 03, 2024.
I want to thank Netgalley and Random House Canada for the advance copy of Alan Bradley's newest addition, the 11th book in the Flavia de Luce series. This was a surprise, as the previous book, released five years ago, was reported to be the final one in the series. Flavia is a 12-year-old prodigy who delights in her ability as an amateur sleuth and her expertise in chemistry, especially when murder is involved.
Flavia revels in crime; the more vile and gross the scene, the more she enjoys it. For those who have not had the pleasure of being acquainted with Flavia in print yet, here are some of her thoughts expressed in an earlier book:
(A friend remarks that it must have been a shock to find the body. "Yes," I said, "it was ghastly. I'd rather not think about it."
I was fibbing, of course. How I tell ..... that finding another dead body was everything but dreadful? On the contrary, It was thrilling; it was exciting; it was invigorating, to say nothing of electrifying and, above all, satisfying. How could I tell the dear man that murder made me feel so gloriously alive?)
Flavia takes pride in solving killings, often before the local police. Her skill in chemical analysis from crime scenes is often a factor. She is becoming rather conceited by her skills. I find the exploits of Flavia a joy to read, but if met in real life, she would be insufferably annoying.
Flavia is now an orphan and has inherited Buchshaw Manor, where she grew up. Her older sisters, Feely (Ophelia), married and moved away, and Daffy (Daphne), always immersed in a book, will soon attend University. She must now contend with running a large property at a young age. Luckily, she has the dependable help of two people who are her dedicated friends. There is Mrs. Mullet, the longtime cook and housekeeper. She has a secret history and a jealous husband. The groundskeeper and handyman, Dogget, has proven to be a knowledgeable and insightful partner in her crime investigations. He suffers from occasional PTSD from his time in WW2. Her cousin, the younger Undine, joined the household after becoming an orphan.
The child is obnoxious, loud, and crude. Flavia is annoyed with her ward's presence and embarrassing behaviour but tolerates and even loves her for interfering in her investigations through her ability to trespass, steal evidence and her observations. Undine is a mini-me of Flavia but lacks her older cousin's restraint. Flavia is often urged to get emotional and behavioural counselling for Undine.
Flavia inserts herself into the investigation of the murder of Major Greyleigh, a nearby recluse and former hangman. The police are having little success with the case, and their suspicion falls on Flavia's friend and housekeeper, Mrs. Mullet. The Major was poisoned and died after being served a breakfast of mushrooms picked and cooked by Mrs. Mullet. Flavia always wanted to do a chemical analysis of poisoned mushrooms and other foodstuffs and is intent on finding the woman innocent.
Her scientific skills and clues lead Flavia deep into a wide-ranging secret conspiracy whose solution is complex and convoluted. I wish the plot had been tighter and less confusing.
I am in awe of the erudite author's literary talents. His use of words is a delight and adds to the enjoyment of the narrative.
The suspense becomes intense and frightening for Flavia. She is led through a series of dark tunnels built under a nearby American military base. What she learns is shocking and a surprise to both Flavia and the reader.
Highly recommended to fans of Flavia de Luce and others who might enjoy this dark mystery. The book will be published on September 03, 2024.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 8, 2024
I feared the previous book would be the last but my favorite juvenile amateur detective is BACK!
Flavia is delightfully fascinated by chemistry and death, and bicycles around Bishop’s Lacy in 1950’s England solving crimes. She’s smart, precocious, and witty.
The mystery is fun & interesting in each book, but I’m here for the characters, especially Flavia and Dugger, although the secondary characters are also delightful. Her cousin Undine is a mini-Flavia, and Flavia’s reactions to her in this book are particularly enjoyable.
As with the last book, there’s a shocking revelation, and I hope we won’t have to wait so long for the next book!
* I received a digital copy via NetGalley but I highly recommend listening to the audiobook. The narrator, Jayne Entwistle, nails the character of Flavia and is a delight to listen to.
Flavia is delightfully fascinated by chemistry and death, and bicycles around Bishop’s Lacy in 1950’s England solving crimes. She’s smart, precocious, and witty.
The mystery is fun & interesting in each book, but I’m here for the characters, especially Flavia and Dugger, although the secondary characters are also delightful. Her cousin Undine is a mini-Flavia, and Flavia’s reactions to her in this book are particularly enjoyable.
As with the last book, there’s a shocking revelation, and I hope we won’t have to wait so long for the next book!
* I received a digital copy via NetGalley but I highly recommend listening to the audiobook. The narrator, Jayne Entwistle, nails the character of Flavia and is a delight to listen to.
September 21, 2024
Mrs. Mullet, the long time de Luce house keeper, is being questioned about a murder. Turns out, she’d been making breakfast for a gentleman in the village, Major Greyleigh. He’s been found dead on the floor of his cottage and the last thing he ate was the breakfast prepared by Mrs. Mullet. Flavia knows that Mrs. Mullet wouldn’t hurt anyway. She also knows that the mushrooms everyone thinks killed the man weren’t poisonous. Can Flavia figure out what is really going on?
I had thought the series ended with the previous book five years ago, so I was pleasantly surprised when I saw this up for preorder. It was fun to revisit Bishop’s Lacey and catch up with Flavia. However, I still find her cousin Undine extremely annoying and not as funny as she is supposed to be. The pacing of the mystery was good, but there were parts of the plot I didn’t care for. And I certainly could have done without all the talk about the crime scene. I’ve often found this series uneven, and this entry fit that description for me.
Read my full review at .
I had thought the series ended with the previous book five years ago, so I was pleasantly surprised when I saw this up for preorder. It was fun to revisit Bishop’s Lacey and catch up with Flavia. However, I still find her cousin Undine extremely annoying and not as funny as she is supposed to be. The pacing of the mystery was good, but there were parts of the plot I didn’t care for. And I certainly could have done without all the talk about the crime scene. I’ve often found this series uneven, and this entry fit that description for me.
Read my full review at .
September 8, 2024
OK Mr. Bradley, we need to talk. If you are sick of writing Flavia books, I get it, fine, you are a free man. Just please stop writing half-assed ones. Spare your fans the torture, I’m begging you.
Truth—I adore this series. Books 1-8 were AMAZING. 9 was IDIOTIC. 10 we were back on track. 11? Oh, 11, you pain me.
Undine is now just a gas joke.
Flavia’s patter is forced and regurgitated.
Plot twists LUDICROUS.
Please put these characters to rest before you do more damage to my happy memories of them and Buckshaw and Bishop’s Lacey. I beg of thee, no more!
Truth—I adore this series. Books 1-8 were AMAZING. 9 was IDIOTIC. 10 we were back on track. 11? Oh, 11, you pain me.
Undine is now just a gas joke.
Flavia’s patter is forced and regurgitated.
Plot twists LUDICROUS.
Please put these characters to rest before you do more damage to my happy memories of them and Buckshaw and Bishop’s Lacey. I beg of thee, no more!
July 15, 2024
I enjoyed the early Flavia de Luce books. They are a twist on girl sleuths, with a very intelligent, somewhat alarming 11-year-old main character who loves chemistry and solving crimes. Set in England in the 1950s, she lives in a fading mansion with her distracted father and two sisters.
However, the last few books have not been up to the standards of the first books, with increasingly unbelievable plot twists, and What Time the Sexton’s Spade Doth Rust completely jumps the shark. The plot twists are ridiculous (and once Flavia started looking for a mysterious someone I knew immediately who it would turn out to be). It seriously feels like Alan Bradley is seeing just how bad a book he can write and still get paid to keep the series going.
Flavia’s ever-changing relationship with her cousin Undine, Flavia wandering around an American base at night, the many “wink wink� asides in which the author wants us to stop and appreciate how clever he is, ugh.
I do not recommend this book, and it’s going to be my last book about Flavia. If you read the series, I recommend stopping at about book 7.
I read an advance reader copy from Netgalley.
However, the last few books have not been up to the standards of the first books, with increasingly unbelievable plot twists, and What Time the Sexton’s Spade Doth Rust completely jumps the shark. The plot twists are ridiculous (and once Flavia started looking for a mysterious someone I knew immediately who it would turn out to be). It seriously feels like Alan Bradley is seeing just how bad a book he can write and still get paid to keep the series going.
Flavia’s ever-changing relationship with her cousin Undine, Flavia wandering around an American base at night, the many “wink wink� asides in which the author wants us to stop and appreciate how clever he is, ugh.
I do not recommend this book, and it’s going to be my last book about Flavia. If you read the series, I recommend stopping at about book 7.
I read an advance reader copy from Netgalley.
April 14, 2024
*3.5 stars �
I love Flavia. I’m so glad there’s a new book, I was worried that this series had ended. Flavia is still grieving the death of her father & having a hate/love relationship with her cousin, Undine. Of course, another murder is enough to make her happy. Bishop’s Lacey is, again, seeing another death & Flavia can’t keep herself out of the investigation. It was nice seeing Dogger & having Mrs. Mullett with a bigger role. Not my favorite of the series, but I still love these characters.
I love Flavia. I’m so glad there’s a new book, I was worried that this series had ended. Flavia is still grieving the death of her father & having a hate/love relationship with her cousin, Undine. Of course, another murder is enough to make her happy. Bishop’s Lacey is, again, seeing another death & Flavia can’t keep herself out of the investigation. It was nice seeing Dogger & having Mrs. Mullett with a bigger role. Not my favorite of the series, but I still love these characters.
September 21, 2024
It was fun to meet up with Flavia again. This one started slow, understandably, as it has been a while, but picked up steam as it went.
October 13, 2024
It's certainly nice to see young Flavia de Luce again, especially after thinking the series had ended with book #10. Flavia is dealing with the death of her father and having her younger cousin, Undine, living with her and her sister, Daffy, at Buckshaw. When a local civil servant passes away, Flavia becomes involved because, well, she's Flavia, but also because the family's beloved housekeeper, Mrs. Mullet, the man's cook, is suspected, as she was the one who served him the supposedly poisoned mushrooms with his breakfast.
For me, the best parts of the Flavia series are now her interactions with beloved butler, Dogger, and Mrs. Mullet (Mrs. M). Flavia's wisdom and sweetness shine through as she talks to these grown-ups in her life, revealing how, at age 12, she is both old beyond her years, and yet, just a kid.
Alas, Undine, while growing on me, is still a tough character to like, and the series fairly recent addition of a secret society (the Nide) that involves the entire de Luce family is tedious. I truly prefer Flavia when she's just young Flavia, solving mysteries, riding her bike Gladys across the countryside, puttering about in her chemistry lab, and chattering with Dogger and Mrs. M.
So, while this is a fun read, there are plenty of distractions that take away from its true Flavia essence. Perhaps, sometimes, series are meant to end, though I'm sure I won't give up on Flavia anytime soon.
For me, the best parts of the Flavia series are now her interactions with beloved butler, Dogger, and Mrs. Mullet (Mrs. M). Flavia's wisdom and sweetness shine through as she talks to these grown-ups in her life, revealing how, at age 12, she is both old beyond her years, and yet, just a kid.
Alas, Undine, while growing on me, is still a tough character to like, and the series fairly recent addition of a secret society (the Nide) that involves the entire de Luce family is tedious. I truly prefer Flavia when she's just young Flavia, solving mysteries, riding her bike Gladys across the countryside, puttering about in her chemistry lab, and chattering with Dogger and Mrs. M.
So, while this is a fun read, there are plenty of distractions that take away from its true Flavia essence. Perhaps, sometimes, series are meant to end, though I'm sure I won't give up on Flavia anytime soon.
October 30, 2024
3.5
Fabulous Flavia is back...this time with rather farty cousin Undine in tow.
A mysterious murder..which cook Mrs.Mullet is #1 suspect and links to previous disturbing events in Flavia's past.
Great series which felt like it had run its course..maybe hasn't quite...
Fabulous Flavia is back...this time with rather farty cousin Undine in tow.
A mysterious murder..which cook Mrs.Mullet is #1 suspect and links to previous disturbing events in Flavia's past.
Great series which felt like it had run its course..maybe hasn't quite...
October 18, 2024
How wonderful to be in the world of Flavia de Luce again! I had forgotten how much I love her, Dogger and Gladys. The mystery in What Time the Sexton's Spade Doth Rust was good if a little far-fetched. I wonder if there will be another book as this one dropped a pretty big surprise revelation that might have repercussions moving forward.
September 4, 2024
Sheer ecstasy being back in rural England of the 1950’s visiting the old Buckshaw estate and quaint village of Bishop’s Lacey following the eccentric teenage Flavia de Luce for her latest investigative escapades. Alan Bradley has made my year by returning to this series after a five-year hiatus. Flavia is back, a little older, but still as irrepressible as ever.
What Time the Sextant’s Spade Doth Rust is the eleventh book in a series that is best in order as the character of Flavia and her life build from book to book.
Right away, I know adults are wondering if this is a Middle Grade or Young Adult series because of the age of the protagonist, but no, these are very much an all-age series of historical mysteries. In fact, I’d argue that adults are the aim because some of the content would fly right by younger readers and is meant to be appreciated by mature readers.
Flavia is the youngest of three eccentric sisters living with their widowed father and Dogger, all around servant from butler to gardener to valet to chauffeur and handyman in the ramshackle Buckshaw estate house. Over time, the once wealthy family has fallen on hard times in the later generations and can barely pay the taxes let alone repair the roof.
The de Luce family including Flavia are not the types for familial love or tenderness- quite the opposite, in fact. Ophelia is gorgeous, often peevish, and musically inclined, Daphne is an introverted bookish genius sort, and Flavia, the youngest, is the chemical genius. The girls are terrible to each other while their stern father, Colonel de Luce is mostly oblivious in his study caught up in his stamps and still struggling after losing his wife and affected by his time as a prisoner of war. But, when the chips are down, they can count on each other.
Flavia is a quirky sleuth who captured my heart from the early pages of book one and I’ve enjoyed seeing the eleven year old chemist genius slowly grow up in an unusual household facing life’s most difficult challenges even as she tackles local murder mysteries sometimes with and more often in competition with the local police. This latest has her determined to keep their cook, Mrs. Mullet, from being arrested. Flavia feels she is on her own now that Pheely is traveling for her honeymoon, father is passed away, Daffy is indifferent and her younger cousin Undine is being a nuisance. Only faithful Dogger can be depended on.
There was a huge stunner in this one and it was a series game changer. I really don’t know what to make of it. Flavia solves the murder mystery and even learns to appreciate Undine even as she feels all at sea about leaving her childhood behind, but yeah, that big shocker has me really needing to have a new installment soon. If readers want something rather different in their historical cozy mysteries including a youthful amateur sleuth with a sense of the macabre about her, give the Flavia de Luce books a go.
I rec'd an eARC via Net Galley to read in exchange for an honest review.
My full review will post at Books of My Heart on Sept 1, 2024
What Time the Sextant’s Spade Doth Rust is the eleventh book in a series that is best in order as the character of Flavia and her life build from book to book.
Right away, I know adults are wondering if this is a Middle Grade or Young Adult series because of the age of the protagonist, but no, these are very much an all-age series of historical mysteries. In fact, I’d argue that adults are the aim because some of the content would fly right by younger readers and is meant to be appreciated by mature readers.
Flavia is the youngest of three eccentric sisters living with their widowed father and Dogger, all around servant from butler to gardener to valet to chauffeur and handyman in the ramshackle Buckshaw estate house. Over time, the once wealthy family has fallen on hard times in the later generations and can barely pay the taxes let alone repair the roof.
The de Luce family including Flavia are not the types for familial love or tenderness- quite the opposite, in fact. Ophelia is gorgeous, often peevish, and musically inclined, Daphne is an introverted bookish genius sort, and Flavia, the youngest, is the chemical genius. The girls are terrible to each other while their stern father, Colonel de Luce is mostly oblivious in his study caught up in his stamps and still struggling after losing his wife and affected by his time as a prisoner of war. But, when the chips are down, they can count on each other.
Flavia is a quirky sleuth who captured my heart from the early pages of book one and I’ve enjoyed seeing the eleven year old chemist genius slowly grow up in an unusual household facing life’s most difficult challenges even as she tackles local murder mysteries sometimes with and more often in competition with the local police. This latest has her determined to keep their cook, Mrs. Mullet, from being arrested. Flavia feels she is on her own now that Pheely is traveling for her honeymoon, father is passed away, Daffy is indifferent and her younger cousin Undine is being a nuisance. Only faithful Dogger can be depended on.
There was a huge stunner in this one and it was a series game changer. I really don’t know what to make of it. Flavia solves the murder mystery and even learns to appreciate Undine even as she feels all at sea about leaving her childhood behind, but yeah, that big shocker has me really needing to have a new installment soon. If readers want something rather different in their historical cozy mysteries including a youthful amateur sleuth with a sense of the macabre about her, give the Flavia de Luce books a go.
I rec'd an eARC via Net Galley to read in exchange for an honest review.
My full review will post at Books of My Heart on Sept 1, 2024
August 29, 2024
YES! This is the book we've been waiting for. Emotion, stunning, hilarious and also tearful, the best characters and the best village and the best writing. I devoured this book and can only hope we will get more (especially after that ending because I cannot wait to see how Flavia goes from there). I loved seeing more of Undine (even thou she irked Flavia) because she provided much-needed comic relief. This book was equal parts so very cozy and so very heart-pounding. Flavia is my all-time favorite fictional character and sleuth and so this book was so fun. I was fascinated by the chemical processes and how they were vital to the investigation (also the reference to the mass spec - a flashback to my college days). I love how she works with Dogger and how he treats her as an equal. I don't want to even give one thing away, so suffice it to say that this book is perfection especially if you are a fan of the series.
Note: I listened to the audiobook and I HIGHLY recommend that format for this whole series; the narration is perfection.
Thanks to the publisher for a free ebook copy and free audiobook copy; my review and thoughts are my own.
Note: I listened to the audiobook and I HIGHLY recommend that format for this whole series; the narration is perfection.
Thanks to the publisher for a free ebook copy and free audiobook copy; my review and thoughts are my own.
September 8, 2024
Meh. I'm disappointed to be disappointed. I liked Flavia-as-mini-Miss-Marple better than this new Flavia-as-mini-James-Bond. Also, one pint-sized precocious protagonist is plenty; Undine-as-sidekick is one too many. I'd rather Bradley had figured out how to bring the sisters into the action. Mrs. Mullet's till-now undiscovered savant-like talent was ridiculous. I wasn't terribly surprised by the Big Surprise. I'd hoped early on in the series that'd we'd be similarly surprised by Someone Else, so this version was a bit of a letdown by comparison. I begin to understand my friends who don't like serieses because they fear such disappointments...but it shan't cure me of eagerly awaiting the next installment!
October 13, 2024
RTC, I love this series! I was stoked to see that Alan Bradley wrote another book in this series and snagged it up in a hurry!
September 6, 2024
I have really loved this series in the past but this installment has truly "jumped the shark" as far as I am concerned. The reappearance of Flavia's dead father as the leader of a "deep state" organization was just too ridiculous, improbable and unlikely and this pretty much ruined the series for me.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 18, 2024
So nice to see Flavia again! And to Mr. Bradley I say: May you live to be a thousand years old, sir.
September 10, 2024
While it was great to be back in Flavia’s world, I wasn’t keen on the big plot twist at the end. Let’s get back to Flavia and Dogger solve mysteries.
October 23, 2024
Back in 2019, it appeared that Flavia de Luce, everyone's favorite cheeky pint-sized mad scientist and amateur detective, had completed her literary journey. Book 10 () was supposedly the final volume. Now, five years later - but less time in Flavia's world - Flavia has returned for further musings on chemistry and delighting in murder and mischief.
My experience with the Flavia de Luce series is hit-or-miss. Flavia and her world are rather static - some books are simply variations on the same thing, with the characters evolving little or not at all from book to book. However, by the end of the series Bradley had managed to introduce some events and characters to keep the series from being completely stagnant. My favorite books were the ones where something occurred to move the overall story forward.
It was bittersweet when I thought Flavia de Luce would end. There had been a lot of changes, some sad, some happy, but Flavia was in a good place. Flavia's father had died and she had inherited the family pile of Buckshaw. Her oldest sister, Ophelia, was married. Flavia's obnoxious younger cousin - her foil - had moved into the house to irritate and inspire her. And Flavia had begun an investigative agency to solve crimes with her stalwart partner Dogger.
We pick up again about where we left off...and instead of moving forward, it feels like the narrative has moved backward. I thought Flavia/Dogger having an investigative service meant they could work on new and more interesting crimes, instead of having yet ANOTHER person die mysteriously in Bishop's Lacey. Nope, instead some character we had never heard of who had recently moved to the village has died. Flavia's longtime family cook, Mrs. Mullet, is under suspicion for potentially feeding him poisonous mushrooms. But no one, not even Mrs. Mullet, seems too concerned that the police think she is a potential murderer. It's clear that Flavia will find the true culprit.
Bradley does the thing that I absolutely hate that mystery writers sometimes do: turn their cozy mystery series into a conspiracy series ( is the absolutely worst offender for this). Bradley had previously introduced the concept of the Nide, a secret society of which Flavia's deceased mother and her very much alive Aunt Felicity were members. I didn't mind when the Nide appeared in the series - it was at least another layer to the world. But in this book Bradley leaned heavily into it. Why do authors think they need some grand conspiracy to keep their mysteries fresh? Agatha Christie never had Miss Marple uncover a secret society that followed her from book to book! Keeping it in the cozy realm is absolutely fine, and Bradley had the best way to keep it fresh but cozy right there - Flavia and Dogger's investigative agency, which did not get any use in this novel! Even worse in terms of sliding backwards,
After reading this, I wish the series had finished with Book 10. Maybe I will pretend it's over - I'm not sure I will continue. I still love Dogger. I still like Flavia's macabre glee. I love her relationship with Undine. But the mystery itself was almost farcical in this one and I don't want to read more books that keep the world and characters the stationary, or undoes the progress that was previously made.
My experience with the Flavia de Luce series is hit-or-miss. Flavia and her world are rather static - some books are simply variations on the same thing, with the characters evolving little or not at all from book to book. However, by the end of the series Bradley had managed to introduce some events and characters to keep the series from being completely stagnant. My favorite books were the ones where something occurred to move the overall story forward.
It was bittersweet when I thought Flavia de Luce would end. There had been a lot of changes, some sad, some happy, but Flavia was in a good place. Flavia's father had died and she had inherited the family pile of Buckshaw. Her oldest sister, Ophelia, was married. Flavia's obnoxious younger cousin - her foil - had moved into the house to irritate and inspire her. And Flavia had begun an investigative agency to solve crimes with her stalwart partner Dogger.
We pick up again about where we left off...and instead of moving forward, it feels like the narrative has moved backward. I thought Flavia/Dogger having an investigative service meant they could work on new and more interesting crimes, instead of having yet ANOTHER person die mysteriously in Bishop's Lacey. Nope, instead some character we had never heard of who had recently moved to the village has died. Flavia's longtime family cook, Mrs. Mullet, is under suspicion for potentially feeding him poisonous mushrooms. But no one, not even Mrs. Mullet, seems too concerned that the police think she is a potential murderer. It's clear that Flavia will find the true culprit.
Bradley does the thing that I absolutely hate that mystery writers sometimes do: turn their cozy mystery series into a conspiracy series ( is the absolutely worst offender for this). Bradley had previously introduced the concept of the Nide, a secret society of which Flavia's deceased mother and her very much alive Aunt Felicity were members. I didn't mind when the Nide appeared in the series - it was at least another layer to the world. But in this book Bradley leaned heavily into it. Why do authors think they need some grand conspiracy to keep their mysteries fresh? Agatha Christie never had Miss Marple uncover a secret society that followed her from book to book! Keeping it in the cozy realm is absolutely fine, and Bradley had the best way to keep it fresh but cozy right there - Flavia and Dogger's investigative agency, which did not get any use in this novel! Even worse in terms of sliding backwards,
After reading this, I wish the series had finished with Book 10. Maybe I will pretend it's over - I'm not sure I will continue. I still love Dogger. I still like Flavia's macabre glee. I love her relationship with Undine. But the mystery itself was almost farcical in this one and I don't want to read more books that keep the world and characters the stationary, or undoes the progress that was previously made.
July 21, 2024
Another Flavia de Luce mystery is just what I needed.
December 28, 2024
I was so ecstatic when I discovered that Alan Bradley was continuing to write this series. He has done a wonderful job of transitioning Flavia de Luce as she ages through each stage of her life so far. I enjoyed reading of her new found understanding for her obnoxious cousin, Undine and their co-operative relationship, and loved the involvement of the other characters also, especially Dogger and Mrs Mullet. Wonderfully narrated by the sublime Jane Entwistle.
Standout quotes:
"I climbed out of bed, shrugged myself into my favorite old brown dressing gown, it had belonged to father and was now all of him that I had left."
Flavia: "Did you guess where I was?"
"Guesses are for amateurs Miss Flavia," Dogger said with a slight smile.
Flavia: "I'm sorry," I said, "I take it back."
Dogger: "No need to do that. Friendship, I believe transcends the odd banana peel."
"Tea?" I asked. We kept an old enamel teapot on an electric hot plate for those days especially rainy ones when we felt like a sip and a chinwag."
"I could hear the hum of daggers from inside the parish hall. Character assassination is not a particularly silent art and the ladies of St Tancred's were masters whose murmurs and hissing tones drifted out to escape in the churchyard."
"Blood maybe thicker than water but it's weak tea indeed compared with the Official Secrets Act."
Standout quotes:
"I climbed out of bed, shrugged myself into my favorite old brown dressing gown, it had belonged to father and was now all of him that I had left."
Flavia: "Did you guess where I was?"
"Guesses are for amateurs Miss Flavia," Dogger said with a slight smile.
Flavia: "I'm sorry," I said, "I take it back."
Dogger: "No need to do that. Friendship, I believe transcends the odd banana peel."
"Tea?" I asked. We kept an old enamel teapot on an electric hot plate for those days especially rainy ones when we felt like a sip and a chinwag."
"I could hear the hum of daggers from inside the parish hall. Character assassination is not a particularly silent art and the ladies of St Tancred's were masters whose murmurs and hissing tones drifted out to escape in the churchyard."
"Blood maybe thicker than water but it's weak tea indeed compared with the Official Secrets Act."
January 27, 2025
Der letzte Band der Reihe kam vor über vier Jahren raus ... eine lange Zeit und deshalb musste ich mich auch erst mal wieder zurechtfinden, denn so genau konnte ich mich an die letzten Ereignisse und Entwicklungen im Haushalt der de Luces gar nicht mehr erinnern.
Man findet aber schon recht schnell wieder rein - auch die Namen wie die Haushälterin Mrs Mullet, die hier direkt unter Mordverdacht steht, sowie Inspector Hewitt, der den Fall verfolgt - oder auch der standhafte Dogger, das Unikum im Hause Buckshaw, mit dem sich Flavia mittlerweile gemeinsam ihren Fällen widmet.
Wie immer erzählt Flavia aus ihrer eigenen Perspektive und mit ihrer ihr eigenen nonchalanten und morbide-makaberen Art. Ihre Vorliebe für Chemie und Todesfälle hat sich auch nicht in ihrem heranwachsendem Stadium zur Frau verloren (das ihr im übrigen große Angst einflößt). Auch ihre Hass-Liebe zu ihrer Cousine Undine. Ein quirliges, äußerst neugieriges Geschöpf, das ihr beständig am Rockzipfel hängen würde, wenn Flavia es zuließe.
Von dem jungen Mädchen fühlt sie sich zwar einerseits bedrängt, verfolgt und genervt, andererseits bemerkt sie aber sehr wohl, dass sie einen gewissen Beschützerinstinkt, ja sogar fürsorgliche Gefühle entwickelt hat. Etwas, das im Hause der de Luces ja bisher bekanntlich kaum gepflegt wurde.
Die Ermittlungen zusammen mit Dogger gehen etwas seltsame Wege - ich wusste oft nicht, wie Flavia zu ihren Schlüssen kommt, auch wenn es im Verlauf irgendwie logisch erscheint. Es wirkt ein bisschen so, als biege es der Autor dahingehend zurecht, denn es ergibt im nachhinein schon Sinn - aber die Erkenntnis vorher ist schon sehr an den Haaren herbeigezogen.
Sowas stört mich normalerweise, aber ich bin hier immer auch etwas abgelenkt vom Erzählstil, der einfach sehr frisch und lebendig ist und mich immer super unterhält. Flavias Gedanken und ihre Art, die Welt und die Menschen darin zu sehen - übrigens auch sich selbst - ist sehr eigen und hat etwas verstörendes, was ihr mittlerweile auch selbst auffällt. Dabei ist sie aber dennoch einfach ein Mensch, der immer mehr zu sich selbst und ihrer Rolle im Leben findet.
In diesem Band gab es nicht mehr ganz so ausführliche chemische Experimente, aber wieder viele Vergleiche mit passenden historischen "Elementen", wie z. B., dass Flavia als Kind im Kinofilm "Bambi" war oder folgendes Zitat:
So leichtfüßig wie Moira Shearer am Seil, das von der Graf Zeppelin herabbaumelt, huschte ich die Treppe hinunter und zur Vordertür hinaus.
aber natürlich auch interessante Verbindungen mit der Chemie
Außerdem enthalten Zitronen gleich acht chemische Elemente: Natrium, Calcium, Kalium, Magnesium, Phosphor, Kupfer, Eisen und Zink.
Die Form der Zitrone ist kein Zufall: Sie ist die Handgranate von Mutter Natur.
Große Spannungsmomente gab es nicht viele - eher eine richtig große Überraschung, die Flavia tatsächlich fast aus dem Konzept bringt, was bei ihr ja schon sehr schwierig ist. Behält sie ja sonst ihre Gefühlswelt völlig unter Kontrolle - wie sie es gelernt hat. Diese Überraschung lässt auch vieles andere plötzlich in anderem, neuen Licht erscheinen, was sie zu einer tiefgreifenden Entscheidung führt.
Die Aufklärung des Mordes war schlüssig, wenn auch, wie oben beschrieben, etwas unausgegoren. Manches blieb mir dann doch etwas zu vage auf dem Weg dorthin, aber insgesamt war es definitiv wieder ein sehr unterhaltsames Lesevergnügen :)
Man findet aber schon recht schnell wieder rein - auch die Namen wie die Haushälterin Mrs Mullet, die hier direkt unter Mordverdacht steht, sowie Inspector Hewitt, der den Fall verfolgt - oder auch der standhafte Dogger, das Unikum im Hause Buckshaw, mit dem sich Flavia mittlerweile gemeinsam ihren Fällen widmet.
Wie immer erzählt Flavia aus ihrer eigenen Perspektive und mit ihrer ihr eigenen nonchalanten und morbide-makaberen Art. Ihre Vorliebe für Chemie und Todesfälle hat sich auch nicht in ihrem heranwachsendem Stadium zur Frau verloren (das ihr im übrigen große Angst einflößt). Auch ihre Hass-Liebe zu ihrer Cousine Undine. Ein quirliges, äußerst neugieriges Geschöpf, das ihr beständig am Rockzipfel hängen würde, wenn Flavia es zuließe.
Von dem jungen Mädchen fühlt sie sich zwar einerseits bedrängt, verfolgt und genervt, andererseits bemerkt sie aber sehr wohl, dass sie einen gewissen Beschützerinstinkt, ja sogar fürsorgliche Gefühle entwickelt hat. Etwas, das im Hause der de Luces ja bisher bekanntlich kaum gepflegt wurde.
Die Ermittlungen zusammen mit Dogger gehen etwas seltsame Wege - ich wusste oft nicht, wie Flavia zu ihren Schlüssen kommt, auch wenn es im Verlauf irgendwie logisch erscheint. Es wirkt ein bisschen so, als biege es der Autor dahingehend zurecht, denn es ergibt im nachhinein schon Sinn - aber die Erkenntnis vorher ist schon sehr an den Haaren herbeigezogen.
Sowas stört mich normalerweise, aber ich bin hier immer auch etwas abgelenkt vom Erzählstil, der einfach sehr frisch und lebendig ist und mich immer super unterhält. Flavias Gedanken und ihre Art, die Welt und die Menschen darin zu sehen - übrigens auch sich selbst - ist sehr eigen und hat etwas verstörendes, was ihr mittlerweile auch selbst auffällt. Dabei ist sie aber dennoch einfach ein Mensch, der immer mehr zu sich selbst und ihrer Rolle im Leben findet.
In diesem Band gab es nicht mehr ganz so ausführliche chemische Experimente, aber wieder viele Vergleiche mit passenden historischen "Elementen", wie z. B., dass Flavia als Kind im Kinofilm "Bambi" war oder folgendes Zitat:
So leichtfüßig wie Moira Shearer am Seil, das von der Graf Zeppelin herabbaumelt, huschte ich die Treppe hinunter und zur Vordertür hinaus.
aber natürlich auch interessante Verbindungen mit der Chemie
Außerdem enthalten Zitronen gleich acht chemische Elemente: Natrium, Calcium, Kalium, Magnesium, Phosphor, Kupfer, Eisen und Zink.
Die Form der Zitrone ist kein Zufall: Sie ist die Handgranate von Mutter Natur.
Große Spannungsmomente gab es nicht viele - eher eine richtig große Überraschung, die Flavia tatsächlich fast aus dem Konzept bringt, was bei ihr ja schon sehr schwierig ist. Behält sie ja sonst ihre Gefühlswelt völlig unter Kontrolle - wie sie es gelernt hat. Diese Überraschung lässt auch vieles andere plötzlich in anderem, neuen Licht erscheinen, was sie zu einer tiefgreifenden Entscheidung führt.
Die Aufklärung des Mordes war schlüssig, wenn auch, wie oben beschrieben, etwas unausgegoren. Manches blieb mir dann doch etwas zu vage auf dem Weg dorthin, aber insgesamt war es definitiv wieder ein sehr unterhaltsames Lesevergnügen :)
February 1, 2025
This cozy mystery builds on the charm and wit of its precocious protagnist, Flavia de Luce. In the eleventh book of the eponymous series, the ever-twleve year old, young detective’s is often observed journeying through the quirky English village of Bishop’s Lacey on her beloved bicycle, Gladys, where her insatiable curiosity and sharp intellect has once again embroiled her in the investigation of another murder. This pre-adolescent has encountered more murders in one year than most people have in a lifetime.
The murder this time is the next-door neighbor, Major Greyleigh, the hangman for the community, who appears to have been poisoned. The primary suspect is the de Luce's longtime beloved cook, Mrs. Mullet, who has been working part time cooking for the major. Knowing that she is innocent of the crime, Flavia begins to investigate.
One of the book's standout elements is its sense of atmosphere including Bradley’s depiction of the small village and the spacious de Luce family home. The series also engages the reader through Flavia's relationships with the supporting characters, including the ever-gruff Inspector Hewitt; her irritating and omnipresant cousin, Undine; and the enigmatic and co-conspiratorial gardener, Dogger.
I thought the previous novel in this series was the last, but I have read that there is a twelve book planned. I hope that before ending the series, Alan Bradley writes one with Flavia as a young woman. I would be interested in seeing what she becomes.
The murder this time is the next-door neighbor, Major Greyleigh, the hangman for the community, who appears to have been poisoned. The primary suspect is the de Luce's longtime beloved cook, Mrs. Mullet, who has been working part time cooking for the major. Knowing that she is innocent of the crime, Flavia begins to investigate.
One of the book's standout elements is its sense of atmosphere including Bradley’s depiction of the small village and the spacious de Luce family home. The series also engages the reader through Flavia's relationships with the supporting characters, including the ever-gruff Inspector Hewitt; her irritating and omnipresant cousin, Undine; and the enigmatic and co-conspiratorial gardener, Dogger.
I thought the previous novel in this series was the last, but I have read that there is a twelve book planned. I hope that before ending the series, Alan Bradley writes one with Flavia as a young woman. I would be interested in seeing what she becomes.
May 7, 2024
Flavia's story keeps getting bigger and bigger compared to what it was at the start of the series, and this installment is no exception. It's a pretty fast-paced and fascinating read, with a big surprise moment that rears up towards the latter half of the book. I do find the backstory of her family (which started to become a thing a few books back) to be a bit vague and difficult to come to grips with. These are no longer just traditional sleuthing books, as the element of "big conspiracy" has strongly entered the picture. I don't have a clear idea of where things are going or the motivations at work, but the book and the overall series are full of interesting moments, flashes of humor, erudite references, and enough surprises to keep readers on their toes.
Thanks to Netgalley and Random House Publishing Group - Ballantine | Bantam for this digital review copy!
Thanks to Netgalley and Random House Publishing Group - Ballantine | Bantam for this digital review copy!
September 15, 2024
It's so good to have Flavia de Luce back!! I've enjoyed this series so reading this was like a visit from an old friend.
This is book #11 in this series and I think it is my favorite so far.....not sure if it was the book itself or if I'm just so glad this series is moving forward.
Flavia, the MC, is growing up but still manages to be where people think she should not be. And with Undine underfoot, it is an extra treat.
I liked where this story went. It added some closure and peace, but yet still managed to keep plenty of mystery. 4.5 stars.....if half stars were a thing.
This is book #11 in this series and I think it is my favorite so far.....not sure if it was the book itself or if I'm just so glad this series is moving forward.
Flavia, the MC, is growing up but still manages to be where people think she should not be. And with Undine underfoot, it is an extra treat.
I liked where this story went. It added some closure and peace, but yet still managed to keep plenty of mystery. 4.5 stars.....if half stars were a thing.
June 30, 2024
4.5* I was lucky enough to get an ARC (thanks, NetGalley and Random House/Bantam!) of this newest installment in the Flavia de Luce series, due to be published in September. The "elevator pitch" for Flavia books would be a precocious 12-year-old girl in post-war Britain solves murders with chemistry. She's my favorite literary heroine, and longtime fans of the series will be very happy with this edition.
As is often the case at Buckshaw, a dead body is discovered, but this time, Flavia's cook Mrs. Mullet is implicated. Working with gardener/butler/driver/right-hand man/trusted friend Dogger, Flavia pursues all her usual avenues of investigation: the environs of Bishop's Lacey, her chemistry laboratory, the antagonistic Inspector Hewitt, the vicar and his wife. She's joined this time by her immature but hilarious (and also orphaned) cousin Undine, who simultaneously looks up to Flavia and desperately wants to best her. As Flavia gets closer to discovering a killer, she also uncovers some secrets that will shock her to her core.
This is #11 in the series, and I loved it because it draws back in elements from the 1st few books. Things about Flavia's parents, stamp collecting, secret societies, and more. Flavia's relationship with Dogger is really so touching, but it's the personal growth she continues to experience that makes one hope she will be around for years to come.
As is often the case at Buckshaw, a dead body is discovered, but this time, Flavia's cook Mrs. Mullet is implicated. Working with gardener/butler/driver/right-hand man/trusted friend Dogger, Flavia pursues all her usual avenues of investigation: the environs of Bishop's Lacey, her chemistry laboratory, the antagonistic Inspector Hewitt, the vicar and his wife. She's joined this time by her immature but hilarious (and also orphaned) cousin Undine, who simultaneously looks up to Flavia and desperately wants to best her. As Flavia gets closer to discovering a killer, she also uncovers some secrets that will shock her to her core.
This is #11 in the series, and I loved it because it draws back in elements from the 1st few books. Things about Flavia's parents, stamp collecting, secret societies, and more. Flavia's relationship with Dogger is really so touching, but it's the personal growth she continues to experience that makes one hope she will be around for years to come.
September 12, 2024
5 stars
Flavia De Luce was supposed to be a 10-book series. Who ever made 11th book happen will always be in my prayers. I loved every inch of this story.
We meet witty and brilliant young sleuth, Flavia after 5 years of last book. De Luce family’s cook, Mrs. Mullet finds herself in trouble, when mysterious death of Major Greyleigh, a former public hangman is thought to be by poisoned mushrooms served by her. Flavia. as always wants to solve the mystery and clear Mrs. Mullet's name.
Flavia teams up with her troublesome cousin Undine to solve this murder. Though Flavia acts annoyed by Undine, it is clear that Flavia sees her own past version in Undine. The dynamic between these two is the life of this book, with enough humor and emotions. Flavia, during her investigations finds out buried truth about her family but as we know Flavia, she doesn't budge from what needs to be done.
Flavia’s chemistry knowledge, sharp dialogue, countryside and of course Dogger gives a different flavor to the story. This story can be considered a turning point in this series, showing many roles Flavia might take up in her life forward. Overall, What Time the Sexton’s Spade Doth Rust is a charming return of Flavia (also Undine), balancing murder with heartwarming moments.
Happy Reading!!
Flavia De Luce was supposed to be a 10-book series. Who ever made 11th book happen will always be in my prayers. I loved every inch of this story.
We meet witty and brilliant young sleuth, Flavia after 5 years of last book. De Luce family’s cook, Mrs. Mullet finds herself in trouble, when mysterious death of Major Greyleigh, a former public hangman is thought to be by poisoned mushrooms served by her. Flavia. as always wants to solve the mystery and clear Mrs. Mullet's name.
Flavia teams up with her troublesome cousin Undine to solve this murder. Though Flavia acts annoyed by Undine, it is clear that Flavia sees her own past version in Undine. The dynamic between these two is the life of this book, with enough humor and emotions. Flavia, during her investigations finds out buried truth about her family but as we know Flavia, she doesn't budge from what needs to be done.
Flavia’s chemistry knowledge, sharp dialogue, countryside and of course Dogger gives a different flavor to the story. This story can be considered a turning point in this series, showing many roles Flavia might take up in her life forward. Overall, What Time the Sexton’s Spade Doth Rust is a charming return of Flavia (also Undine), balancing murder with heartwarming moments.
Happy Reading!!
September 5, 2024
I had a really hard time getting into and following this book, so I was surprised to see how much all the other readers loved it. I have to imagine it was because I hadn't read any prior book in the series, so I would say this is probably not a great stand-alone book.
Here is how I tend to rate books:
5 stars - outstanding, would read multiple times and keep in my personal library
4 stars - great book and would recommend to others
3 stars - a decent, average read that was easy to get through
2 stars - would not recommend to others
1 star - I don't give these out as I would just DNF
I received this book through a ŷ Giveaway and was asked to give my honest review.
Here is how I tend to rate books:
5 stars - outstanding, would read multiple times and keep in my personal library
4 stars - great book and would recommend to others
3 stars - a decent, average read that was easy to get through
2 stars - would not recommend to others
1 star - I don't give these out as I would just DNF
I received this book through a ŷ Giveaway and was asked to give my honest review.
December 20, 2024
In Alan Bradley's eleventh and latest installment of the beloved Flavia de Luce series, our precocious young chemist and detective finds herself navigating increasingly murky waters, both personally and professionally. The novel weaves together themes of duty, secrets, and the painful transition from childhood to maturity, all while maintaining the series' signature blend of wit, whimsy, and dark undertones.
A Tale of Two Sleuths
Set in the early 1950s at Buckshaw, the crumbling family estate, the story introduces an intriguing dynamic between Flavia and her young cousin Undine, who appears to be following in our protagonist's footsteps with an unsettling enthusiasm for mayhem. Their relationship evolves from initial antagonism to reluctant mentorship, providing some of the novel's most compelling moments.
The murder of Major Greyleigh, a former public hangman living in quiet retirement, sets the stage for a mystery that proves to be far more complex than a simple case of mushroom poisoning. Bradley expertly weaves together multiple narrative threads, including the shadowy organization known as the Nide, international intrigue at the nearby American air base, and deeply personal revelations that shake Flavia's world to its core.
Strengths and Notable Elements
Character Development
Bradley's greatest achievement in this volume is his nuanced portrayal of Flavia's emotional growth. At thirteen, she finds herself straddling the line between childhood and adolescence, forcing her to confront uncomfortable truths about family, duty, and morality. The introduction of Undine as a foil for Flavia's younger self provides fascinating insights into our protagonist's character development throughout the series.
Atmospheric Writing
The author's trademark ability to create a rich, immersive atmosphere remains strong. His descriptions of post-war English village life, from the rationing of butter to the bombed-out churches of London, provide an authentic historical backdrop that enhances the story's themes of loss and renewal.
Scientific Detail
Bradley continues to impress with his integration of chemistry and forensics into the narrative. The technical details about saxitoxin and mushroom identification are both educational and plot-relevant, never feeling forced or gratuitous.
Areas for Improvement
Pacing Issues
The novel occasionally suffers from uneven pacing, particularly in its middle section. Some readers may find the numerous plot threads concerning the Nide and Leathcote air base somewhat convoluted, potentially detracting from the central mystery.
Resolution
While the revelation about Flavia's father provides emotional weight, some readers might find the resolution of the murder plot slightly anticlimactic compared to earlier books in the series. The political intrigue occasionally overshadows the traditional detective elements that made previous installments so engaging.
Thematic Depth
Family and Identity
The novel excels in its exploration of family bonds and personal identity. Flavia's discovery about her father's fate raises profound questions about duty, sacrifice, and the nature of truth. The parallel between Major Greyleigh's collection of hanging dolls and the puppetry of the Nide provides a haunting metaphor for control and manipulation.
Coming of Age
Bradley handles Flavia's maturation with remarkable sensitivity. Her growing awareness of adult complexities and moral ambiguities is portrayed convincingly, without sacrificing the character's essential nature that readers have come to love.
Writing Style and Technical Elements
Bradley's prose remains sharp and engaging, with Flavia's first-person narration providing both humor and insight. His ability to balance light and dark elements continues to set this series apart from typical cozy mysteries. The author's attention to period detail and scientific accuracy adds credibility to the narrative without becoming pedantic.
Final Verdict
Strengths:
- Rich character development
- Strong historical atmosphere
- Complex thematic elements
- Engaging scientific details
- Evolution of series mythology
Weaknesses:
- Occasionally convoluted plot
- Uneven pacing
- Some unresolved plot threads
Recommendation
"What Time the Sexton's Spade Doth Rust" is recommended for:
- Existing fans of the Flavia de Luce series
- Readers who enjoy intelligent young protagonists
- Enthusiasts of historical mysteries
- Those interested in post-war British settings
- Fans of character-driven narratives
While newcomers to the series would be better served starting with earlier volumes, longtime readers will find this installment a worthy addition to the canon, offering both closure and new insights into beloved characters.
A Tale of Two Sleuths
Set in the early 1950s at Buckshaw, the crumbling family estate, the story introduces an intriguing dynamic between Flavia and her young cousin Undine, who appears to be following in our protagonist's footsteps with an unsettling enthusiasm for mayhem. Their relationship evolves from initial antagonism to reluctant mentorship, providing some of the novel's most compelling moments.
The murder of Major Greyleigh, a former public hangman living in quiet retirement, sets the stage for a mystery that proves to be far more complex than a simple case of mushroom poisoning. Bradley expertly weaves together multiple narrative threads, including the shadowy organization known as the Nide, international intrigue at the nearby American air base, and deeply personal revelations that shake Flavia's world to its core.
Strengths and Notable Elements
Character Development
Bradley's greatest achievement in this volume is his nuanced portrayal of Flavia's emotional growth. At thirteen, she finds herself straddling the line between childhood and adolescence, forcing her to confront uncomfortable truths about family, duty, and morality. The introduction of Undine as a foil for Flavia's younger self provides fascinating insights into our protagonist's character development throughout the series.
Atmospheric Writing
The author's trademark ability to create a rich, immersive atmosphere remains strong. His descriptions of post-war English village life, from the rationing of butter to the bombed-out churches of London, provide an authentic historical backdrop that enhances the story's themes of loss and renewal.
Scientific Detail
Bradley continues to impress with his integration of chemistry and forensics into the narrative. The technical details about saxitoxin and mushroom identification are both educational and plot-relevant, never feeling forced or gratuitous.
Areas for Improvement
Pacing Issues
The novel occasionally suffers from uneven pacing, particularly in its middle section. Some readers may find the numerous plot threads concerning the Nide and Leathcote air base somewhat convoluted, potentially detracting from the central mystery.
Resolution
While the revelation about Flavia's father provides emotional weight, some readers might find the resolution of the murder plot slightly anticlimactic compared to earlier books in the series. The political intrigue occasionally overshadows the traditional detective elements that made previous installments so engaging.
Thematic Depth
Family and Identity
The novel excels in its exploration of family bonds and personal identity. Flavia's discovery about her father's fate raises profound questions about duty, sacrifice, and the nature of truth. The parallel between Major Greyleigh's collection of hanging dolls and the puppetry of the Nide provides a haunting metaphor for control and manipulation.
Coming of Age
Bradley handles Flavia's maturation with remarkable sensitivity. Her growing awareness of adult complexities and moral ambiguities is portrayed convincingly, without sacrificing the character's essential nature that readers have come to love.
Writing Style and Technical Elements
Bradley's prose remains sharp and engaging, with Flavia's first-person narration providing both humor and insight. His ability to balance light and dark elements continues to set this series apart from typical cozy mysteries. The author's attention to period detail and scientific accuracy adds credibility to the narrative without becoming pedantic.
Final Verdict
Strengths:
- Rich character development
- Strong historical atmosphere
- Complex thematic elements
- Engaging scientific details
- Evolution of series mythology
Weaknesses:
- Occasionally convoluted plot
- Uneven pacing
- Some unresolved plot threads
Recommendation
"What Time the Sexton's Spade Doth Rust" is recommended for:
- Existing fans of the Flavia de Luce series
- Readers who enjoy intelligent young protagonists
- Enthusiasts of historical mysteries
- Those interested in post-war British settings
- Fans of character-driven narratives
While newcomers to the series would be better served starting with earlier volumes, longtime readers will find this installment a worthy addition to the canon, offering both closure and new insights into beloved characters.
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