54 pages 1 hour read

Louise Penny

The Nature of the Beast

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2015

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Before You Read

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Super Short Summary

The Nature of the Beast by Louise Penny, the 11th novel in the Chief Inspector Gamache series, follows the retired Armand Gamache as he investigates the suspicious death of nine-year-old Laurent Lepage in the isolated village of Three Pines, Quebec. As Gamache uncovers a dangerous supergun hidden in the woods, connections to a notorious serial killer and historical war crimes come to light, revealing long-buried secrets and moral ambiguities within the village community. This book contains references to the violent death of a child and to war crimes.

Reviews & Readership

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Review Roundup

The Nature of the Beast by Louise Penny is praised for its intricate plot and richly developed characters, embodying the charm and suspense fans expect from the series. However, some reviews note a slower pace compared to previous entries. The novel balances a compelling mystery with thoughtful reflections on human nature, making it a solid addition but not without its pace-related critiques.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Nature of the Beast?

A reader who would enjoy The Nature of the Beast by Louise Penny likely appreciates intricate mysteries set in small, tight-knit communities. Fans of Agatha Christie's Hercule Poirot series or Donna Leon's Commissario Guido Brunetti mysteries will find similar enjoyment in Penny's blend of character-driven plots and atmospheric settings.

RecommendedReading Age

18+years

Book Details

Genre

Mystery / Crime Fiction

Horror / Thriller / Suspense Fiction

Themes

Society: Community

Society: Politics & Government

Values/Ideas: Justice & Injustice