This is Richard Osman’s second book in the Thursday Murder Club series. I was a little apprehensive before reading it because I loved The Thursday Murder Club, and I wondered whether this would be one of those awkward second novels. No need for worries, though. I think I actually enjoyed t even more than his first book. The plot is clever. I defy you to guess who has the diamonds and who, exactly, has been murdered (and by whom). There are umpteen plot twists to keep you guessing right until the end.

I think what I like most about this book, though, is Osman’s writing. His warmth and humour shine through just about every sentence he’s written. It is so funny, so entertaining. The characters are real people. I swear, I’ve met every single one of them at some point in my life. I don’t know how Richard Osman has so much knowledge of the inner workings of elderly females, but he totally nails it. Joyce is fantastic! She reminded me of my favourite aunt time and time again. But the men are fantastic, also. I love Bogdan’s relationship with Stephen. The way such a hard, tough, scary man as Bogdan plays chess with the older man who has dementia is lovely to read. I felt so sad for Ibrahim. To see him scared of leaving his home because of what Ryan Baird did to him was heartbreaking. And, Ron. He appealed to me a lot more in this book than the first. I loved his sense of humour. I loved the way he incorporated his socialist views into every thought he had. Brilliant!

The title is clever. I though Douglas was the man who died twice, as, I believe, was Richard Osman’s intention. However, on the very last page we discover who it really refers to. I won’t give it away because it’s such a great ‘aha’ moment.

The whole time I was reading this book, I had a smile on my face. I could imagine Richard Osman really enjoyed writing it. It shows in the text. It is a fabulous, funny, heart-warming novel. Surely, this book could be enjoyed by anyone and everyone!

Anyone who loves a good yarn! It is funny, clever, twisty, and (I think) impossible to not enjoy it.

Richard Osman's writing is fantastic! I loved his first book (The Thursday Murder Club), but this one is even better. It's like he's really found his narrative voice, and I love it!

Contact Richard and beg him to hurry up writing his next book!

Happy.

Richard Osman. Often, when TV presenters turn to writing, the result is disappointing. Not so with this man. He's flipping fab!

It's awesome! So funny. So clever. The characters are just brilliant.

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Created Jan 15, 2022 at 7:32am • Submit your own review...