The Last of August by Brittany CavallaroMy rating: 4 of 5 stars
Second in the series. I loved the first and quite liked this one. I am really looking forward to the the third. (So why 4 stars, not all 5?)
It isn't my opinion that this book is just good, not great; it's my opinion that parts of this novel are great and parts are not.
I love the characters here, their development and their interactions and the author's brilliant characterization. And there are scenes in this that are awesome and well worth the price of admission. That's all you can ask for--amazing and fun.
And yet, I felt like there was a bit of a muddle in the middle, in the European section, and it was disappointing by comparison. The action slows and the mystery becomes hard to follow. It's more spy vs. spy at that point, which is cool in its own way, but I'm not sure it all makes sense. It didn't for me.
It comes back together at the end with a bunch of I wasn't expecting that resolutions, which is something I enjoy, something you look for in a Holmes story, and I'd say that just about fixes the rest.
TBH, I'd rather read a smaller book, a smaller plot, where they solve a more everyday kind of mystery that lets Holmes show off more. Of course, have stakes that matter. Yes, have them be in danger somewhere. But have it be in Holmes' wheelhouse. Let her be in control, instead of blundering without sign of a plan or relying on family so often. (I didn't care for Milo or his use in the novel. A little too Batman/007/CIA ex machina to suit me.)
But now I quibble and I meant to praise.
The author is a great writer, with a wonderful feel for language. A lot of great lines, illuminating insights, terrific interpersonal stuff. I admire that and enjoy what she's done in this series.
True story: I love Sherlock stories, and this is my favorite Holmes. And an excellent Watson, come to that. Highly recommended. (Did I bury the lede? My bad.)
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