How the Light Gets In by Louise Penny is the ninth Inspector Gamache mystery, and as Christmas approaches, hostile politics at the Surete du Quebec will bring him back to Three Pines (available August 27, 2013).
The ninth book in the Inspector Armand Gamache series sees the trouble brewing in previous installments come to a thrilling, violent head. Once in charge of the most efficient division of the Surete du Quebec, Chief Inspector Gamache has seen his homicide department gutted, as agents he trained and trusted left his side, not always willingly, to join other departments. Their replacements are mostly agents whose primary concern is self-preservation, with crime-solving a distant second. In this, they take their cues from Chief Superintendent Francoeur, Gamache’s nemesis, who is intent on promoting an environment of self-interest within the Surete, at the expense of the general good.
Gamache is not giving up without a fight, though.
His method isn’t showy, which concerns those few agents still left on his side. When he reprimands an agent caught in a lie to cover up his laziness, he does so in private, with kindness:
“Do you know what I’ve learned, after three decades of death?” Gamache asked, leaning toward the agent and lowering his voice.
Despite himself, the agent leaned forward.
“I’ve learned how precious life is.”
The agent looked at him, expecting more, and when no more came he slumped in his chair.
“The work you do isn’t trivial,” said the Chief. “People are counting on you. I’m counting on you. Please take it seriously.”
While this speech does have a temporary motivating effect, kindness doesn’t seem enough to stem the erosion of professionalism, so an urgent phone call from an old friend is an almost-welcome distraction. Gamache is asked to look into the disappearance of Constance Pineault, who was supposed to arrive in Gamache’s beloved Three Pines as a guest of bookstore owner Myrna Landers. The investigation quickly turns up Constance’s corpse, as well as the secrets of the infamous past that finally caught up to her.
But it’s really the mystery of Francoeur’s machinations—what’s behind them, what he plans and to what end—that are at the heart of the intricate plot. Gamache’s former assistant, Jean-Guy Beauvoir, left to work directly in Francoeur’s office after becoming convinced that Gamache was trying to destroy his life, if not kill him outright. Beauvoir becomes an unwitting linchpin in Francoeur’s plot, as well as the emotional heart of a novel that successfully balances a traditional murder mystery with an urban thriller of corruption and suspense.
It’s probably Louise Penny’s skill at getting to the emotional truth of any situation that makes her so good at melding these genres into a book I found exceptional. This is ably illustrated by an exchange between Gamache and Landers, who was a therapist before she retired to Three Pines, as they discuss the utility of investigating Pineault’s past, Gamache saying,
“I don’t really know, but it’s extraordinary, and when someone is murdered, we look for the extraordinary, though, to be honest, we often find the killer hiding in the banal.”
Myrna laughed. “Sounds like being a therapist. People normally came into my office because something happened. Someone had died, or betrayed them. Their love wasn’t reciprocated. They’d lost a job. Gotten divorced. Something big. But the truth was, while that might’ve been the catalyst, the problem was almost always tiny and old and hidden.”
Gamache raised his brows in surprise. It did sound exactly like his job. The killing was the catalyst, but it almost always started as something small, invisible to the naked eye. It was often years, decades, old. A slight that rankled and grew and infected the host. Until what had been human became a walking resentment. Covered in skin. Passing as human. Passing as happy.
Until something happened.
Louise Penny does a wonderful job of writing a novel with aspects that will appeal to fans of cozy mysteries, police procedurals and thrillers alike. Above all, her faith in goodness, in the power of kindness and love, shines through in a book that isn’t afraid to look unflinchingly at evil and venality in its many forms, reflected as they are in the two main mysteries here. An excellent book on its own, and an emotionally satisfying read for those who’ve been following Gamache’s progress in the Surete.
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How the Light Gets In Comment Sweepstakes: NO PURCHASE NECESSARY TO ENTER OR WIN. A purchase does not improve your chances of winning. Sweepstakes open to legal residents of 50 United States, D.C., and Canada (excluding Quebec), who are 18 years or older as of the date of entry. To enter, complete entry at https://www.criminalelement.com/blogs/2013/08/fresh-meat-how-the-light-gets-in-by-louise-penny-inspector-gamache-surete-du-quebec-doreen-sheridan beginning at 10:00 a.m. Eastern Time (ET) August 20, 2013. Sweepstakes ends at 9:59 a.m. ET August 29, 2013. Void outside the United States and Canada and where prohibited by law. Please see full details and official rules here. Sponsor: Macmillan, 175 Fifth Ave., New York, NY 10010.
Doreen Sheridan is a freelance writer living in Washington, D.C. She microblogs on Twitter @dvaleris.
Read all posts by Doreen Sheridan for Criminal Element.
Great series!
It sounds like a great addition to this wonderful series.
I love Louise Penny and can’t wait to read this one.
I love this series and the characters involved.
Looking forward to reading this . . . .
I adore books written by Louise Penny!
Many thanks, Cindi
jchoppes[at]hotmail[dot]com
I’m a big Louise Penny fan and would love to win this book.
This must be one of the best mystery series today—and it’s so well written. I’d love to win this book.
[url=mailto:farrell@crosslake.net]farrell@crosslake.net[/url]
Gamache is one of the most interesting characters in mystery fiction. His quiet compassion and integrity are unsurpassed.
Heard this is a good series!
Definitely a must read!!!
An awesome book by a great author
that doesn’t cost a penny……heaven!
I love Louise Penny. Thanks for the contest.
Louise Penny is one of the best. I’ve read the Inspector Gamache series and loved every one of them.
Her books are so satisfying, they go beyond the mystery solved. Gamache always reminds me of my father… so kind, so true.
I always love Louise Penny’s books. You never know where the story will end up. I am looking forward to this book.
Louise Penny’s “Inspector Gamache” series is the perfect blend of cozy AND procedural … light moment and characters mixed with heavy moments and serious investigation. I’ve read 2 so far, and have another 2 sitting on my TBR … would love to have the most recent one join them!
LOVE L Penny’s writing and stories…
Sounds like another wonderful addition to the series!!!
This looks like the perfect summer read for me. Thank you
Thanks for the contest!
Sounds like a good read—thanks for the opportunity to win a copy!
Have heard so much about Penny and am anxious to get reading!
Another Inspector Gamache story to look forward to enjoying! So eager to see it!
Haven’t read any of this series yet – it’s just been put on my to read list.
Have heard so much about Penny and am anxious to get reading! (now that I’m logged in)
Louise Penny’s writing is exquisite – I love her books!
I have to admit that despite being a long-time fan of this series, I was rather disappointed with the last entry. Penny was dragging out the “angst” way too long across too many books and the only point of the last book seemed to be as an arc to what I hope will be a whole lot of personal conclusions in HTLGI.
sounds like a really good book. would love to win.
Another Inspector Gamache story to enjoy…Louise Penny is a favorite!
I have only read one of her books. This sounds like it might be a good re-introduction to Penny.
I love all her mysteries
I came late to this series at #5 but was hooked and am all caught up. Can’t wait to revisit Inspector Gamache!
Louise Penny’s Inspector Gamache books will always be in my list of ‘to be read again and again’ books. They are beautifully written with sympathetic, believable characters.
Looks like a good read; can’t wait to read a Christmas inspired book by Penny!
I, too, am a latecomer to the Inspector Gamache series but dove right in and can hardly wait to get my hands on the next.
Just bought a Louise Penny paperback “Beautiful Mystery,” but haven’t delved in just yet. It came highly recommended, so if I received the ARC too, I’d really get a taste of her writing.
I love her books. Count me in please.
Louise Penny and Gamache are two of my all time favorites. Happy to hear a new novel is about to be published.
If the cover has light coming through tall tress onto the snow and if it has Louise Penny’s name on it…then I want it!
Can’t wait to read the latest Inspector Gamache book!
I would love to win! It’s always hard waiting on the next Louise Penny novel!
I love her stuff! Thanks for the opportunity to win a copy.
My favorite author!! I would love to win.
never read one of her books can’t wait
Have loved all of the Louise Penny novels and the town of Three Pines.
I haven’t read any of these. Looks good though!
Sounds like a good read!
Louise Penny is great!
Looking forward to reading the next installment of this great series.
I’m in for a Penny on this book, please.
can’t wait to read!
I’d love to win and read this. Thx.
I must admit I haven’t read this series. But it looks interesting.
I would love to win a copy!
I love Louise Penny and all of the characters and locations in her novels. I can’t wait to read the new one to see what is happening to everyone.
Louise Penny is a most talented writer! Criminal Element introduced me to her books, and I’ve now read all the “Gamache” books in print. I’m looking forward to #9. She really writes a good book! These are mysteries I will enjoy rereading.
It’s always fun to try someone new!
Gamache is my hero. I hope “How the Light..” resolves his recent problems.
I would like to read this book.
I am so entranced by Gamache that I am grateful to be able to read the latest episode of his story. I also love the “Alleulia” reference.
I so enjoyed “The Beautiful Mystery” as Gregorian Chant is such a fascinating subject. Can’t wait to see what she has planned for this next book in the series!
This is one of my favorite series and am looking forward to reading this book.
Looks great. I love mysteries but hadn’t heard of this series before.
love another armond mystery
I would love to read this book.
I would love to read this.
The Three Pines mysteries have achieved a high point in humanity, literacy and characters you fall in love with!
Can’t wait to catch up with Gamache and Three Pines.
Sounds like an interesting read that I would like
Would love to read
I haven’t read this author’s books yet but the Quebec setting and the strong main character peaks my interest.
These must be read in order, to appreciate the through story that plays behind the crime of each given book.
[b]Big Louise Penny fan!! Want this win!![/b]
Another great book to win.
THIS LOOKS GREAT!!
I cannot wait to see what happens next!!
Sounds exciting!
One of my very favorite mystery series. Can’t wait till it comes out!
This sounds like an interesting book.
wonderful author
How do I enter the sweepstakes for this novel?
Would love to read this!
Looking forward to reading the latest Louise Penny book.
I love all the books listed on your site. Looking forward to reading this one too. Thanks for the giveaway.
Louise Penny never disappoints. Vive le Gamache!
Love to win!
Please enter me.
The Light Will Get In when I win! Yes!
I would so love to win an ARC of this book. This is one of my favorite series of all time! I’m crossing my fingers on this one :)!!!
I cant wait to read this one
I’m a fan of the series and looking forward to reading this one.
I love Louise’s books!
I have not read this author before, but the book discription makes me want to change that.
Inspector Gamache has been a “father figure” to me for years; the writing is so exquisite!!
This is one of my favorite series – I even bought the short stories available for the Kindle.
One of my favorite series – can’t wait to read the latest Inspector Gamache mystery!
This is a new series to me.
I am anxious to read this book.
One of my favorite authors and series!
Love mysterys!
Sounds mysterious
Louise Penny is a truly brilliant writer. I love that she is returning to Three Pines.
I’m looking forward to reading this one way or another.
Can hardly wait for this installment!!
I really enjoy this series. I can’t wait to read this book. Thanks for having the sweepstakes.
I just purchased my first Louise Penny novel. I love cozy mysteries and police procedurals and would love to read this one!
I just purchased my first Louise Penny novel. I love cozy mysteries and police procedurals and would love to read this one!
I started with “The Beautiful Mystery” but have gone back to read these amazing novels in order. I can’t wait to read this new one.
sounds great
I love Louise Penney – she is an awesome writer!
I’ve been dying to find out what Francoeur has been up to. Never trusted the man! But I do trust Gamache to do whatever is proper and right! Keep it up, Ms. Penny!
Sounds like a must have to me!
I love Inspector Gamache!!!
I just went back and started reading all
of this series from the beginning
I would love to add this book to the
collection!
I’ve always meant to start this series.
I have not read any of these books, but I think I have been missing a very good series. I hope I win, I will be starting on the first book soon.
I’ve read two of her books and really enjoyed them. Looking forward to this one.
I read Louise Penny’s first book “Still Life” when it was first published and have been a fan ever since. We were fortunate to have the author make an appearance at our local independent mystery book store several years ago. She is as nice as her books are great!
Thanks for the chance to win.
This is such a great series. I would love to win this book.
This seems like a super read.
I love reading the inspector G books…never know what your going to find, and you get caught up in the “angst” of the department….can’t wait for this one…hope I win one copy…
Never read a book in this series but I’d be interested in checking out any books that combine procedural and cozy.
I love Louise Penny and the people who are her characters in these books! Can’t wait to read this new one!
Louise Perry has been on my to read list, but so far I have not gotten to her. By winning this book then I will have a reason to read her.
Great series! Looking forward to reading the latest… Thank you for the opportunity!
I don`t believe I`ve read any of this series, bu it`s not too late to start……….
sounds fantastic! Thanks for sharing 🙂
How exciting for her to have another book out!! I am looking forward to winning AND reading this one. Thank you
I would love this!
Love her books would like to have a copy
I take the day off from work when Ms Penny has a new book out. Thanks for the contest.
Would love this book!!
The inspector is a comforting combination of Columbo and Sherlock Holmes…depends on brains not brawn.
Can’t wait for this to arrive! Marvelous story teller.
Sounds so exciting. I’m in.
I love her. She describes her food that it makes you want to visit Three Pines even though it doesn’t exist.
Read an ARC of this entry in the Gamache series and couldn’t put it down! A satisfying wrap up to various threads that have been woven throughout previous books.
I would love to win this book. Count me in.
I came to the series late with THE BEAUTIFUL MYSTERY, and can’t wait to see what happens next to this intriguing cast of characters.
I love a good mystery book
love a good mystery series
One of my favourite series. I’ve been on pins & needles waiting for this after the way the last book wrapped up.
I need a new series to read. I’d love to try this book. Thanks!
I have never read a book by Louise Penny. I know she visits my local bookstore all the time and has a huge following. I would like to win to check her out. Her books I mean. Ha!!!
I haven’t read any books in this series, but I’ve added them to my reading list.
I haven’t yet read a
Gamache novel, but would love to start.
I would love to read this!
I love her books and would love to win this new one!
Would love to win her new book!
Having read all the previous Inspector Gamache stories, I eagerly await this one. Ms. Penny’s characterizations are so good I feel I know all the characters and would be very comfortable settling in Three Pines!
Looks great!
I love this series.
Thanks for the giveaway!
Looks like a good read. Would love to win this one!
Have yet to start this series. Will do so if I win.
Always looking for my next good series!
Thanks!
One of the best series around.
I would really love to wi n this one. Thanks!
Discovered Louise Penny and Gamache a few months ago and I am in love!
Christmas and a mystery, it can’t get better!
another great one to add to my wish list.
Love Louise Penny
glad louise penny is back with another greast inspector gamache mystery novel THANK YOU
This looks interesting
Sounds like a wonderful book. Je t’aime the Quebec setting.
Definitely sounds like something I’d like to read!
I love Inspector Gamache and cannot WAIT to read this!
I would love to win this book! Thanks!
I love Louise Penny’s books and can’t wait to read this one! Hurray! More Gamache and Three Pines!
[b]I entered your giveaway.[/b]
[b]It would be great to win [/b][b]an Advance Reader’s Copy[/b]
[b] of [/b]How the Light Gets In [b]by Louise Penny.[/b]
Thank you for having this giveaway!!!!!!!!!!
looks terrific.
A dear friend reads LP and sings her praises. However I haven’t read anything by her. This sounds like a great story! HO HO HOPE I WIN!
Thanks. Always looking for another good mystery series!
I haven’t had the pleasure of reading any of this series and it sounds as though I’ve really missed something good. I have added to my TBR list.
I looove this series. *fingers crossed*
Sounds like a great read. Thanks for the opportunity to win a copy.
would love this mystery. love to read. thanks, good luck to everyone
I am anxious to read this book.
Hi…nice to meet another Doreen (my middle name.) This book sounds very interesting. I really like mysteries and look forward to reading this one. Thanks…
Louise is such a delight- and her books even more so!
The write up on this book sounds really good. I would love to read it. Thanks for this chance.
Sounds good!
After the heart breaking ending of A Beautiful Mystery, I have been anxiously waiting for Lousie’s newest novel.
I can’t wait to read How the Light Gets In.
I read A Trick Of The Light last yr and loved it! Louise Penny has a great writing style. Would love the chance to read this!
Would really love to win this. Thx.
This sounds like a book that I should check out.
This book looks so tempting. I would like to have the opportunity to read it.
The blending of genres tend to make the best reads. Loking forward to this one.
Louise Penny always writes eloquently about finding light in the darkness. I am grateful for her spiritual inspiration and cannot wait to read her latest.
I’m looking forward to reading How The Light Gets In. Louise Penny writes so beautifully with so many twists.
Looks really really good. Keeping my fingers crossed.
Sounds good!
I love this series. Can’t wait to read this latest book.
Louise Penny’s books are terrific. I especially love the Inspector Gamache/Three Pines books so I’m looking forward to this new book!
So glad to see the inspector back again. I’d love to read this.
I’ve read the entire series to my spouse. We’re both dying to see the new book.
This is a great series, looking forward to the new book.
Louise Penny has such a gentle way with her writing. And she’s great with sharing what is going on with her life/travels on Facebook too!
I’d love to win. I’d love to win. I’d love to win. Thanks.
I love this series so much that even the re-reads are great!
I’ve had this pre ordered since it was first featured. Can’t wait for it, knowing it will be well written and worthy of a raining day in S. Texas.
Love Gamache. Love Three Pines!
can’t wait. i love all her books.
Gameche est le meilleuer. Je l’adore!
sounds like a fun one!
I love reading thrillers and this one sounds like it would be enjoyable.
this looks great
fabulous! another book in the series! was introduced to these this summer and read them all one after the other. Cant wait to find out what happens next to the Inspector and his group of frineds.
[quote]looks like a good read[/quote]
I would love to read the work of Louise Penny!
I’m excited for new Gamache!
this looks great
Go Gamache!
Looks pretty dang sweet!!!
Sounds great!
Though I have not read any of the books in this series, this looks like a good one to start with!!
Cool, count me in.
i can’t wait to read this, thanks for the chance to win!
Ah, [b]politics. Will make for interesting reading, for sure![/b]
I can’t wait to read this book.
Would love to read it.
Heard this is a good series!
Definitely must have!!!
Sounds like a great book!!! Count me in!!
Louise Penny and her Gamache series are exceptional. I am amazed with every book that she emerged, full-blown, at a “certain” age. Her books encompass the full range of evil, but Gamache is the pure light of goodness throughout.
I love all your books
Sounds fantastic!
LOVE this series!!
love to win this great prize
Love Crime, Mystery, who done it’s… BOOKS… thanks for the chance to READ!
Great prize!