I liked this book, but man were there some moments when I just wanted to throw the book down and forget about it. Those moments had nothing to do with the plot, and everything to do with Brooklyn. I liked Brooklyn early on, but as the series has continued and we've gotten to see more of her, it's apparent that Brooklyn is a very immature character who is constantly over glorified. Seriously, anyone who does not compliment Brooklyn or treats her less than stellar is always disliked by every other character in the series and made out to be a one dimensional villain (of a sort). I'm not saying change everything about Brooklyn, but I am saying give her some character growth. Negatives aside, I appreciate that in this novel there was no Minka; she brings out the worst in Brooklyn, and I really rather not read Brooklyn's catty and shallow comments. Don't get me wrong, Brooklyn is justified in disliking Minka, but considering she rarely complains about Minka trying to stab her hand and more about how horribly Minka dresses/how fat Minka is/how Minka throws herself at guys/how Minka is not as good at her job as Brooklyn, most of Brooklyn's remarks just make her look bad. I also liked that Brooklyn's mother was only present for a scene. Brookyln's mom is a fun character, but too many times she is just forced into the novels when not needed. Even in this one she is, but it's so short, it's forgivable. And finally, the best part about this novel has to be that we finally get a significant amount of time with Gabriel. I am so happy that with each book Gabriel gets a little more "screen time". He's such a fun character, and he's almost always involved in the plot. I am usually rabid about reading a series in order, but picked this one up and was sucked in after the first few pages. All the elements of a classic Christie: a big old mansion with a captive house party and somewhat mysterious owner, someone to play the role of detective, and even a reveal at the end that grows upon itself and actually made me laugh as the layers of the plot kept unfolding upon themselves. The characters, however, are quite modern and some side stories ensue that are quite apart from the main drama and add a lot to the book, I think. Also enjoyed the short side discussions on rare books and their care. Not so much that it was distracting; just about right. I'll definitely be picking up the remaining books in the series. Ms. Carlisle is a very engaging writer.
Do You like book Peril In Paperback (2012)?
The story kept my interest up...a most interesting, quirky story that kept me guessing.
—Rachelannwolfe
Too many characters and too much going on. Ending and whodunit was disappointing.
—Nikke
The beginning chapters were very slow to me, but it picks up and is nice.
—SoftballChic14
One of my favorites in the entire series.
—Kritkreet
