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59 pages 1 hour read

A Rule Against Murder

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2008

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Book Brief

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Louise Penny

A Rule Against Murder

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2008
Book Details
Pages

322

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Quebec • Contemporary

Publication Year

2008

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

In A Rule Against Murder by Louise Penny, Chief Inspector Armand Gamache and his wife Reine-Marie celebrate their anniversary at Manoir Bellechasse in Quebec, where a family reunion takes a dark turn after a family member, Julia, is found dead under mysterious circumstances. Gamache abandons his vacation to investigate, delving into family tensions and solving complex puzzles to uncover the truth. The book tackles themes of family conflict and legacies.

Mysterious

Suspenseful

Contemplative

Emotional

Informative

Reviews & Readership

4.4

128,648 ratings

86%

Loved it

12%

Mixed feelings

2%

Not a fan

Roundup icon

Review Roundup

Louise Penny's A Rule Against Murder captivates with its rich character development and atmospheric setting. Critics commend Penny's intricate plotting and the series' consistent charm. Some note a slower pace and predictable elements but appreciate the depth of emotional storytelling. Ultimately, the novel resonates as a solid installment in the Inspector Gamache series. Penny, Louise. A Rule Against Murder. Minotaur Books, 2009.

Who should read this

Who Should Read A Rule Against Murder?

Readers who enjoy A Rule Against Murder by Louise Penny relish character-driven mystery novels with a strong sense of place and psychological depth. Fans of Agatha Christie's Hercule Poirot series or Elizabeth George's Inspector Lynley mysteries will find this book appealing for its intricate plotting and engaging detective.

4.4

128,648 ratings

86%

Loved it

12%

Mixed feelings

2%

Not a fan

Character List

Chief Inspector Armand Gamache

The protagonist and head of homicide for the Quebec Sûreté, known for his professorial appearance and deep thoughtfulness, which guides his investigative approach.

A victim in the story, she is the second eldest child of Irene and her first husband, Charles Morrow, and has a complicated family history intertwined with the central mystery.

The maître d’ of the Manoir Bellechasse, known for his long-standing leadership and mentorship at the lodge, his character plays a critical role in the unfolding events.

The matriarch of the Finney-Morrow family, dealing with a condition that impacts her relationships with her children, influencing the familial dynamics.

Irene’s second husband and Charles Morrow’s former business partner, offering insights into the family history and connections at the Manoir Bellechasse.

The eldest son of Irene and Charles, characterized by his difficult and snobbish demeanor, which complicates his interactions with family members.

The third child of Irene and Charles, a painter who, along with his wife Clara, serves as a connection to the series' broader narrative through their residency in Three Pines.

The youngest child of Irene and Charles, an architect whose professional accomplishments are revealed later in the story, challenging assumptions about her.

Marianna’s child, whose exploration and quiet joy offer a contrast to the family’s tensions, adding layers to the family interactions.

The owner of the Manoir Bellechasse, who holds a belief in breaking the lodge’s destructive past, adding a superstitious element to the setting.

The chef at the Manoir Bellechasse, formerly a famous television personality, who brings a sense of nostalgia and an aura of mystery to the story.

A brash and confrontational server at the lodge, whose interactions with staff and guests add to the story's suspense.

A gardener at the Manoir Bellechasse, who discovers Julia’s body and provides crucial information that contributes to the investigation.

Gamache’s loyal second-in-command, whose personal biases are examined against the backdrop of cultural and linguistic tensions in Quebec.

A skilled observer in Gamache’s team, who adds emotional depth to the investigations through her empathetic connection to victims.

Gamache’s insightful wife, who, while not an investigator, offers unique perspectives on the tensions present at the Manoir Bellechasse.

Armand’s father, known historically for his controversial actions and deeply affecting Armand's internal journey throughout the narrative.

Book Details
Pages

322

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Quebec • Contemporary

Publication Year

2008

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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