I Am Half-Sick of Shadows

I Am Half-Sick of Shadows (2011) Alan Bradley

It’s almost Christmas, and Flavia has grave suspicious about St. Nick. How he really come down the chimney to leave gifts? And if he does, can he be caught?

Unfortunately, the de Luce household is in an even greater uproar than normal, since Father is allowing a movie crew to film at their house, as a way of, perhaps, keeping the family afloat a little longer.

I fully admit that as soon as I read about Flavia’s plan to try and trap St Nick, I knew the murderer was going to spring the trap. But I didn’t know HOW that was going to occur, and I wasn’t at all disappointed when it did happen.

Because this is, of course, a Flavia book, and you already know things she doesn’t, but you’re glad to be along.

Although it is pleasant to think about poison at any season, there is something special about Christmas…

Of course it is.

I had concocted the gunpowder myself from niter, sulfur, charcoal, and a happy heart. When working with explosives, I’ve found that attitude is everything.

But don’t think she gets away with it all.

“Impertinent children ought to be given six coats of shellac and set up in public places as a warning to others.” Aunt Felicity sniffed.

The story may be improbable, but Flavia is marvelous.
Rating: 7/10

Published by Delacorte Press

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