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54 pages 1 hour read

The Brutal Telling

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2009

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Book Brief

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Louise Penny

The Brutal Telling

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2009
Book Details
Pages

386

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Three Pines • Contemporary

Publication Year

2009

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

In The Brutal Telling by Louise Penny, Sûreté Chief Inspector Armand Gamache and his team investigate the murder of an unknown man found in Olivier Brulé’s bistro in the quiet village of Three Pines. As secrets unravel, the investigation leads them through art theft and the history of the Haida people, ultimately exposing hidden truths about some of the village’s beloved residents.

Mysterious

Dark

Suspenseful

Emotional

Gritty

Reviews & Readership

4.4

110,945 ratings

86%

Loved it

12%

Mixed feelings

2%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Louise Penny's The Brutal Telling is widely praised for its intricate plot and rich setting in the village of Three Pines. Readers appreciate the depth of Chief Inspector Gamache's character and the novel's exploration of moral complexity. However, some find the pacing slow and the resolution unsatisfactory. Overall, it captivates with its atmosphere and thought-provoking themes.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Brutal Telling?

Readers who savor atmospheric mysteries with intricate plots and rich character development will cherish Louise Penny's The Brutal Telling. Fans of Agatha Christie's Hercule Poirot series and Donna Leon's Commissario Brunetti mysteries will appreciate its sophisticated storytelling and the quaint yet complex world of Three Pines.

4.4

110,945 ratings

86%

Loved it

12%

Mixed feelings

2%

Not a fan

Character List

Chief Inspector Armand Gamache

The protagonist and an experienced homicide detective at the Sûreté, known for his patience and humanistic approach to solving crimes. He respects the complexity of people and takes a meticulous approach to investigations.

Second-in-command to Gamache, Jean Guy is a skilled detective with a brash exterior that hides his sensitivity and sympathy. He shares a close relationship with Gamache.

A homicide detective on Gamache’s team who focuses on marginalized narratives to piece together evidence and helps train the newest team member, Paul Morin.

The newest detective on Gamache’s team, young and inexperienced but eager to learn from his colleagues. He earns Gamache's respect through his willingness to assist.

A prominent member of the Three Pines community, owner of a bistro, and known for his generosity. His past as an antiques dealer complicates his involvement in a murder case.

Olivier's partner who runs their bed-and-breakfast for the joy of service. He is supportive of Olivier and reaches out to their business rivals for peace.

A new resident in Three Pines aiming to start a luxury spa with his wife, Dominique. He faces challenges regarding a murder victim found in his new home.

Marc’s father, a famous doctor turned spiritual author from India. He returns seeking to reconnect with his family.

An artist in Three Pines, living with her husband Peter. She strives for recognition in her art while maintaining her humility and integrity.

An art expert working with the Sûreté on major art crimes, assisting Gamache with identifying art and antiquities linked to the case.

The murder victim, known for his isolation and valuable artifact collection. His past and identity are shrouded in mystery.

A woodworker and member of the local Czech community, having fled Czechoslovakia. He and his family are initially suspected in the murder but are later exonerated.

Book Details
Pages

386

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Three Pines • Contemporary

Publication Year

2009

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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