The Locked Room by Elly Griffiths (Dr Ruth Galloway #14)

This latest instalment in the adventures of Dr Ruth Galloway does not disappoint! This is the first book I’ve read that is set during the pandemic. It brought back so many memories of the initial reactions to this virus. ‘There won’t be a pandemic’, says Tanya. ‘It’s just the flu. People should take vitamin C tablets and stop complaining.’ Who doesn’t remember this sort of scepticism at the start of 2020?

Ruth finds herself pivoting to online teaching (Zoom anyone?) while trying to juggle her daughter Kate’s lessons at home.

Nelson and his Serious Crimes team are investigating a series of suicides that are now looking rather suspicious, while practicing social distancing and wearing masks. We have adapted so quickly to this strange new world, it’s hard to believe that it has only been two years since Covid first reared its ugly head.

This is a series that needs to be read in order to fully appreciate the character development, and the references to past events. I must admit, there were a few too many convenient coincidences in this latest book, but I really didn’t care. It’s the company I come back for: Ruth and Nelson, the wonderful druid Cathbad (everyone’s favourite character!), Judy and Tanya. They are old friends, and it is heartwarming to spend some time with them, even if it is in lockdown!

Reviewed by Gaby Meares
Murder on a Monday Reading Group