By Richard Osman

Many years ago, everybody here would wake early because there was much to do and only so many hours in the day. Now they wake early because there is much to do and only so many days left.

The journey passes very pleasantly. The sun is up, the skies are blue, and murder is in the air.

I highly recommend this murder mystery for those who also enjoy character development and thoughtful writing. (and who doesn’t?)
The writing is extraordinary and the mystery had me guessing throughout. There are lots of twists, turns, and surprises. The red herrings are very well set up.
In addition to the puzzle, old age with its blessings and its curses, married love, parental love, and love between friends are tenderly and compassionately explored. The humor arises from the characters and the situations, not showy jokes or witty snarky banter. I loved it and looking forward to the next in the series in which the whole club and a murderer return and new characters are introduced.
I started this book on Kindle and finished it on Audible, read by the great Leslie Manville. The audible version also featured a 45-minute discussion of the book between the first-time author(!) and the wonderful Marian Keyes.**3 1/2 stars**

March 14, 2021