All the Devils are Here by Louise Penny

This seems like the sort of day that needs some distraction — so, I’ll tell you about the newest Louise Penny — All the Devils are Here. I got my copy through a local independent bookstore who offered a live (albeit remote) talk by Ms. Penny that included a copy of the book with purchase of the ticket — how could I refuse? The talk was great fun, she’s holed up in her London flat – and the book arrived a few days later.

Please allow me to cheat and quote another reviewer – whose review captures the essence of this newest installment better than I ever could….

“Penny’s series has always been about the complexities and sustaining glories of family, and here she takes that theme even further, revealing fissures in the Gamache clan, but also showing the resilience and love at its root. Series devotees will revel in both Penny’s evocation of Paris―every bit as sumptuous as her rendering of Three Pines―and in the increased role she allots to librarian Reine-Marie, whose research skills are crucial to untying the Gordian knot at the mystery’s core.”
―Booklist (starred)

I’ve read some excellent books this year and All the Devils are Here is right up there as one of the best. Unlike the previous books in this series, it’s not set in the charming village of Three Pines, Quebec — but in Paris – que diable? I wondered if this would matter, but I’ve always found Ms. Penny’s books to be excellent and, as usual, from the very first page I was hooked. In fact, the Paris setting is beautifully rendered and almost as enthralling as being there. Ms. Penny has captured Paris and it’s environs — from the Musée Rodin and its gardens, to the Place de la Concorde.

Chief Inspector Armand Gamache and his wife Raine-Marie have come from Canada to Paris for the impending birth of a new grandchild. After a celebratory dinner with their two children, spouses, and Armand’s billionaire godfather, Stephen Horowitz, Stephen is deliberately struck by a vehicle and lies in a coma. A grim discovery at his apartment prompts an investigation and the uncovering of family secrets leaving Armand to determine just who can be trusted.

The Prefect of Paris police, an old friend, may be corrupt. Jean-Guy is insecure in his new job, does not know why he was hired or who to trust as a mystery unfolds at his engineering firm. Daniel and Ros may be living above their means. But, above all, Armand’s godfather Stephen is on life-support. And, he knows something.

From there the story unfolds and the tension mounts, as Gamache probes the unanswered questions — why Stephen has been in Paris longer than they knew, why he moved from his apartment to a hotel suite, and why he has kept a very important project a secret. It is a very complicated plot, and the reader needs to have his wits about him exceedingly complex tale of international finance and deals.

All the Devils are Here reveals additional insight into Gamache’s background, his family and, for the first time, his troubled relationship with his son Daniel. I was pleased that, in this installment, Reine Marie is even more of a presence and has a very significant role when her profession as a librarian researcher proves vital.

And, just in case you’re wondering about the title —

“When we first sat down, you said that Hell is empty and all the devils are here. What did you mean?” “It’s one of my favorite quotes, you know that,” said Stephen. And Armand did. Stephen loved to use the lines from The Tempest to unnerve business rivals, colleagues. Friends. Strangers on planes.”

The only part I had trouble with was with the character of Daniel, Gamache’s son, who has had a lifelong antipathy toward his father which strained credibility and had me muttering ‘oh grow up’ at his whining.

As is typical of a Louise Penny novel, there are revelations which are heart-breaking; and others, joyous. Throughout, she offers a solid story about honor, justice, love, family, and friendship. Oh, and of course, murder.

I learned many new things and feel richer for having read her words. I’m so glad Ms. Penny keeps writing this wonderful series. Keep ’em coming!

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Be sure to read the acknowledgements after finishing All the Devils are Here, here not only does Ms. Penny reveal background into her characters, but also opens her heart about her life and writing.