I had a really hard time following the plot of this book -- I could keep track of the characters, but for some reason I never got my head around all of the factions and groups and international relations issues involved.As a related aside: I'm getting fed up with Sherlock Holmes and Mary Russell constantly being in the middle of all of these international incidents. Mycroft's influence is just getting too great in King's books -- I miss some of the earlier plots that were focused on more local, British issues and places. The shortest book in the series. My first reaction? Thank heavens! My two least favorite plotlines: one of the main characters develops amnesia or the character is accused of a crime she did not commit. And here, I thought we might get both. Ugh! Thankfully, only the first happened. Almost all mystery writers employ these plot devises at some point, usually to my dismay, but King handled it nicely. Russell regains bits and pieces of her memory as time progresses, in a realistic fashion. As I said, a pleasant surprise as we piece together what, exactly, happened along with Mary. I did waver between 3 and 4 stars, however. The section where Holmes was disguised as a holy man and went with the boy to find information on Mahmoud was a little boring. Also, the placement of Mahmoud and Ali in the story felt forced. I really liked their characters in previous stories, but this time it felt as if they were inserted just to have them there, neglecting any sort of character development. Ali did not contribute much and the whole ending with Mahmoud just felt too rushed and disappointing. If King works them into any future stories, I hope they are more fully developed like in previous efforts. I also worry about Mary's souring relationship with Mycroft. I hope he does not end up overly vindictive. If so, I would be interested to see Holmes' emotional reactions and thoughts.
Do You like book Garment Of Shadows (2012)?
A lovely novel set in Morocco. It definitely made me want to got there!
—Cami
Loved how the book began, it was an exciting read right up to the end.
—Bri
Interesting but not the best of the series.
—LegitAsh
So sad to be at the end of a great series.
—KyraOneill
