Gripping read for Halloween (Dr Ruth Galloway Mysteries 5) (The Dr Ruth Galloway Mysteries)

I've greatly enjoyed the Ruth Galloway mysteries but this latest offering was a bit of a disappointment. First of all, there was very little mystery or suspense to it. Only one or two of the suspects made any impact so the denouement at the end was surprising since it involved a character that had not been much of a presence. Secondly, there was little archeology, forensics or otherwise. Yes, there was a grave, and some bones, and the question as to whether or not the grave was really that of King Arthur, but little else. Ruth did make a quick assessment and discovered that the bones had been exchanged, so a real question was who did it and why. That question hinged upon an Aryan Brotherhood type organization that had adopted King Arthur as the icon for the "true, white English king." That raised a question as to why these archeology and history university students hadn't realized that King Arthur fought the English (the Angles and Saxons that invaded his Celtic or British homeland), so why was he chosen as a pure English type? Third, Ruth (and Elly Griffiths) seems now more focused on motherhood and the various mothers in the story. There's Ruth with the precocious Kate, her friend Shona with a young baby boy, police detective Judy with a newborn (and she seems to be suffering from post natal depression.....anyone take note?), and Ruth's old college chum with three perfect teenagers. I have no problem with mothers as major characters, but it does change the focus of Griffith's story line. Ruth's druid friend Cathbad is still around and is a charming character but his decision to move from Norfolk will eliminate a key character in the series (or will he change his mind in the next novel). As for Ruth's and Harry Nelson's relationship, it is still challenging but is becoming a bit of a bore. Nelson can't have it all which is what he seems to want. Despite these issues, the writing is still lovely, especially the description of the northwestern area, the major characters attractive, and the action moves quickly. I hope the next novel will focus more on a forensic mystery.

I was searching for a new author, a new perspective, a new point of view. I found myself drawn into this book, not wanting it to end. Of course, I then found out I'd started not at the beginning of the series but well into it. The wonderful thing is, it made no difference - I felt like I've known the main characters forever.

I was hooked on the Ruth Galloway Mystery with her first book and can't wait for the next book.
The story keeps you interested with each page you read. Once you start reading you can't put it down.

I really like the Ruth Galloway mysteries. They are well written. Ruth is a down to earth character. I like her independent nature and her wide variety of friends. The marsh where she lives sounds like a wonderful place to escape. I am looking forward to reading the latest book.

Elly Griffiths has written several mystery books that are tremendous. I have read them all except the latest which I have yet to buy.
I will be buying that one very soon. Very intelligent writing and keeps you wanting more but be prepared it is hard to put down.

Elly Griffiths' Ruth Galloway series is excellent. Her characters and their interactions are both convincing and sympathetic, and each novel leaves the reader anxious for the next one. I'd recommend it to anybody who enjoys good writing and a fascinating mystery.

I really love this series great characters and story line. Really looking forward to the next edition in the series. Although Nelson is a shallow man to stay with Michelle just for her looks. I'm sure their relationship won't last.

This entry in the series had an Interesting plot and good development of the main character's life as she moves forward as a single mother. There are life changes in the relationships of many of the main characters.

Like her other Ruth Galloway books, Elly Griffiths, doesn't disappoint with this book. Suspenseful, humorous, and thoughtful. The characters seem like real people you'd pass on the street. Can't wait for the next one!

This author is one of my very favorite authors! I have read each book she has written from start to finish in one sitting. Waiting for the next book is the hardest. Glad the wait for this one is over.

I find these books difficult to define but really enjoyable. The characters are intriguing and Griffiths keeps adding bits and pieces to keep the readers attention. I look forward to the next installment.

The Ruth Galloway mysteries keep getting better and better. Elly Griffiths needs to write faster as I only have one more of her books to read.

Excellent author, very well written books and great characterization.