The Train Now Departing: Two Novellas (The Train Now Departing and When 'The Mousetrap' Closes) : Book Review

"The Train Now Departing" by Martha Grimes is an engrossing and intricately crafted mystery that takes readers on an exhilarating journey through time and murder. Set against the vibrant backdrop of London's Underground, Grimes effortlessly combines a fascinating historical setting with a complex array of characters to weave a suspenseful and captivating tale.

The story revolves around Detective Inspector Richard Jury, who becomes embroiled in a perplexing case surrounding a suspicious death on a train. As Jury delves deeper into the investigation, secrets, deception, and hidden motives come to light, keeping readers guessing and on the edge of their seats. Grimes' writing is masterful, creating an atmospheric world within the Underground that captures the imagination and draws readers into its depths until the very last page.

One of the standout features of "The Train Now Departing" is Grimes' exceptional character development. Jury himself is a delightful and astute protagonist, with a dry sense of humor and sharp intelligence that make him a joy to follow. The supporting cast of suspects and witnesses are equally well-crafted, each with their own unique personalities and motivations that add depth and complexity to the story. Grimes skillfully explores their pasts, bringing their histories and desires to life in a way that is compelling and relatable.

The pacing of the book is superb, with Grimes expertly balancing suspense and intrigue to keep readers engrossed from start to finish. Unexpected twists and turns abound, ensuring that the story is constantly evolving and throwing new challenges at Jury and the reader alike. The incorporation of historical details adds an extra layer of richness to the narrative, painting a vivid and immersive picture of the time and place in which the events take place.

In conclusion, "The Train Now Departing" is a mesmerizing and atmospheric mystery that will captivate fans of the genre. With its well-crafted characters, evocative setting, and thrilling plot, Martha Grimes delivers a compelling read that will leave readers eagerly anticipating her next installment.

What are readers saying?

Martha Grimes' novel, "The Train Now Departing," has garnered a range of reactions from readers. Some commended the book for its captivating storytelling and intriguing plot, praising the well-developed characters and the historical setting of post-World War II England. Grimes' attention to detail and atmospheric descriptions were also highly appreciated, providing a vivid and immersive reading experience. Readers were particularly impressed with the unexpected twists and turns that kept them guessing until the very end.

However, not all readers shared the same enthusiasm. Some found the book to be slow-paced and lacking excitement, with a plot that dragged on and failed to generate tension or suspense. Additionally, these readers felt that the character development was inadequate, making it difficult for them to connect with or care about the protagonists. Some even perceived the book as disjointed or confusing, with multiple storylines that did not fully converge.

Opinions on the writing style also varied. While some praised Grimes for her elegant and lyrical prose, others believed it to be overwritten and convoluted, which hindered their comprehension. Similarly, some readers found the dialogue stilted and unrealistic, impacting their overall enjoyment of the story.

Categorized as crime fiction, "The Train Now Departing" deviated from the expectations of some readers. While it contained elements of crime and intrigue, it delved into broader themes such as post-war trauma and social dynamics, prompting mixed reactions. While some appreciated the deeper exploration of these themes, others desired more focus on the central mystery.

Overall, opinions on "The Train Now Departing" by Martha Grimes are divided. While some readers praised its captivating storytelling and atmospheric setting, others found it slow-paced and lacking excitement. The book's writing style and character development also received mixed reviews. Ultimately, readers seeking a crime fiction novel with a strong emphasis on mystery may find this book deviates from their expectations.

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