A Witty Escape: My Thoughts on Kills Well with Others by Deanna Raybourn
There are days when the world feels like a gray blanket, and I find myself dragging my feet to tackle the mundane tasks of laundry and grocery shopping. Enter Kills Well with Others, the second installment in Deanna Raybourn’s Killers of a Certain Age series—a book that proved to be a delightful mood booster on one of those gloomy days. Raybourn, renowned for her sharp wit and knack for blending humor with mystery, had me engrossed in the escapades of Billie, Helen, Mary Alice, and Natalie once again, and I couldn’t have asked for a better escape.
This time around, the four fierce women are semi-retired assassins navigating the quieter waters of their lives, only to find themselves drawn back into the thrilling chaos of their past. When they receive summons from their employer, a secretive organization known as the Museum, they’re thrust into a world of intrigue. The discovery of a mole among them, linked to a threat that rekindles memories of their younger days, sparks their adventure. Raybourn expertly weaves their journey across cities like New York, Venice, and Sardinia, allowing us to revel not just in the plot but in the friendships that shine amidst the danger.
One of the delightful aspects of Kills Well with Others is the delightful humor that prevails throughout the narrative. It’s refreshing to see how Raybourn embraces the characters’ age as an asset rather than a limitation, as they rely on their life experiences—often hilariously—to navigate their missions. The scenes involving their disguises and clever strategies provide plenty of laughs, reminding me that a well-timed chuckle can elevate even the most mundane situations.
Raybourn’s writing feels more polished in this sequel than its predecessor, addressing some of my earlier concerns. It seems like the author found a rhythm with her characters and timeline, expertly managing the dual timelines that serve to deepen our understanding of the present-day stakes. Each reveal is thoughtfully paced; there were moments when I couldn’t help but admire how skillfully she threaded the past into the present, allowing the plot to unfurl seamlessly.
And can we talk about the memorable moments? The chicken scene had me laughing out loud—it’s these unexpected touches that showcase Raybourn’s skill in creating a captivating narrative. Her blend of humor and suspense hooks you in, leaving you eager to flip the pages even as the laundry waits.
In conclusion, Kills Well with Others is a warm, witty, and utterly engaging read that I’d highly recommend to fans of cozy mysteries and anyone seeking a story brimming with heart and humor. Whether you’re already a fan of the series or simply looking for a book that can lift your spirits, this one is sure to deliver. Reading it not only offered a lovely escape but also reminded me how powerful and rejuvenating a good book can be on a dreary day.
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