Sunday, March 24, 2013

I Am Half-Sick of Shadows: a Flavia de Luce Novel

I have mentioned before how very much I love the Flavia de Luce series, but let me say it just one more time.  I absolutely adore Flavia.  Completely.  Totally.  The fourth book in the series, I am Half-Sick of Shadows, proves to be worthy of Flavia and her adventures.  Allow me to explain.

In this wonderful installment, Flavia's home, Buckshaw takes center stage.  Because of money woes, Flavia's father has agreed to allow a movie crew to film at Buckshaw.  This certainly brings excitement to all of Bishop's Lacey, especially since famed actress Phyllis Wyvern will be starring in the film.  As if that all weren't enough, the normal buzz around the Christmas season also adds jubilance into the air.

As a service to the people of Bishop's Lacey, the film crew agrees to perform the balcony scene from Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet.  Buckshaw was filled with not only the crew but, the entire township as well.  As luck would have it, a blizzard sets in while the entire town is watching the classic play.  This results in everyone needing to bunk at Buckshaw.  Of course, this becomes the scene of the crime.  Such a well maneuvered crime scene.  It reminds me of a classic Agatha Christie tale!  And, as if that whole backdrop were not enough, Flavia is also determined to prove the existence of Father Christmas.

If you haven't read the Flavia de Luce series, I recommend them for immediate read.  They have such value and are so fun.  Check out my reviews of the first three books here.  Also, I hope to read the latest book, Speaking from Among the Bones soon.