Louise Penny's A Great Reckoning captivates with its intricate plot and rich character development, particularly featuring Inspector Gamache. While praised for its atmospheric setting and compelling mystery, some readers may find the pacing slow. Overall, the novel is a satisfying addition to the series, blending suspense with emotional depth effectively.

Fans of character-driven mysteries like Donna Leon's Commissario Guido Brunetti series or Tana French's Dublin Murder Squad books will relish A Great Reckoning. This novel appeals to readers who appreciate intricate plots, rich atmospheres, and well-developed characters in a small-town setting.

In Louise Penny's A Great Reckoning, former Chief of Homicide Armand Gamache takes over the Sûreté Academy to uproot its entrenched corruption. Gamache hires controversial figures, including cadet Amelia Choquet and former Superintendent Michel Brébeuf. When Professor Serge Leduc is murdered, Gamache and his team, including four cadets, investigate, uncovering dark secrets within the academy and the village of Three Pines. This book addresses themes of abuse of power.

Mysterious / Suspenseful / Contemplative / Emotional / Dark

- In writing A Great Reckoning, Louise Penny drew upon her personal experience living in a small Canadian village to authentically depict the charm and intricacies of village life.
- The map found in the story was inspired by actual hand-drawn maps created by fans of the Chief Inspector Gamache series, reflecting the deep connection between the series and its readers.
- Louise Penny's A Great Reckoning won the 2016 Agatha Award for Best Contemporary Novel, a testament to its engaging storytelling and popularity within the mystery genre.

**Armand Gamache**  
A seasoned investigator with deep moral convictions, who assumes leadership roles with integrity and compassion. He guides others with wisdom, often becoming a mentor figure.

**Amelia Choquet**  
A police cadet with a tough exterior and unconventional appearance, struggling with her past while searching for acceptance and purpose within the force.

**Serge Leduc**  
A despised figure within the academy, known for his sadism and controversial influence over the cadets. His murder serves as a pivotal event in the narrative.

**Michel Brébeuf**  
A complex and enigmatic character with a past connection to Gamache. His actions create significant plot developments and tensions within the story.

Louise Penny

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