Still Life

Starred review from May 1, 2006
Canadian Penny's terrific first novel, which was the runner-up for the CWA's Debut Dagger Award in 2004, introduces Armand Gamache of the Sûreté du Québec. When the body of Jane Neal, a middle-aged artist, is found near a woodland trail used by deer hunters outside the village of Three Pines, it appears she's the victim of a hunting accident. Summoned to the scene, Gamache, an appealingly competent senior homicide investigator, soon determines that the woman was most likely murdered. Like a virtuoso, Penny plays a complex variation on the theme of the clue hidden in plain sight. She deftly uses the bilingual, bicultural aspect of Quebecois life as well as arcane aspects of archery and art to deepen her narrative. Memorable characters include Jane; Jane's shallow niece, Yolande; and a delightful gay couple, Olivier and Gabri. Filled with unexpected insights, this winning traditional mystery sets a solid foundation for future entries in the series.

If you only listen to one mystery this year, make it this one. Everything about this Inspector Gamache mystery is invigoratingly intelligent, as well as visually pleasing. The descriptions of Quebec--the woods, the interiors, the food, and the art--are exceptionally lucid. The cast is filled with remarkable characters, whose various accents are pitch perfect as read by Ralph Cosham. The Francophones and the Anglos have lots to say to each other, as well as much to say behind each other's backs, and village life is as vivid as if it were written by Christie. Inspector Gamache commands with keen vision as well as kindness. Cosham has helped create this new series hero by giving his words and thoughts a deep and penetrating voice. B.H.B. Winner of AudioFile Earphones Award (c) AudioFile 2007, Portland, Maine