The Man Who Died Twice by Richard Osman

 

Reviewed by Jeanne

After successfully solving a murder in their first outing, the members of the Thursday Murder Club find themselves investigating even more crimes.  The first has to do with an attack on one of their own, while the second has a man from Elizabeth’s past contacting her.  It’s her ex-husband and he is on the run after allegedly stealing twenty million pounds’ worth of diamonds from a broker for some very bad people, all of whom have reason to want him dead.

The Murder Club has their hands full, but as usual they will rise to the occasion.

I thoroughly enjoyed The Thursday Murder Club and the lively assortment of people in the retirement community, but wondered if the delight of that book could be sustained in a sequel.  I’m very happy to report that this one is just as good, and maybe even better.  The old crew is still together:  Elizabeth the former spy who still has contacts in high places, Ron the rabble rouser union activist, Joyce the seemingly flighty one with a sharp eye and sharper mind, and Ibrahim, the psychiatrist who loves order and lists.  Together they are a formidable team.

What I like most about the book is the writing: practically every page there is something amusing and/or profound.  If I were the type to underline in books, I’d probably go through two pens just to get it all. There are wonderful character sketches that make me think of people I know.  There are insights that make me pause, and lines that make me laugh out loud.  I like the way the story is told from different perspectives—Joyce’s is in first person as she writes in her diary—and lets the reader see the world through someone else’s eyes. I adore the humor in the books, and the author is so good at making me want to read “just one more chapter.”

The characters are very distinctive, with strong personalities. I like all the Murder Club members immensely and would love to join them at their meetings, though they are all made of sterner stuff than I am. The characters are also all aware of their limitations and face mortality with intelligence, grace, and humor.

I am definitely going to read the rest in the series.  There’s to be a filmed version of the first book and from all reports it’s a dream cast:  Helen Mirren as Elizabeth, Ben Kingsley as Ibrahim, Pierce Brosnan as Ron, and Celia Imrie as Joyce.  While I’m sometimes dubious about book to film, I have to say I’m excited about this one. If it’s half as good as the book, I’ll be thrilled.

Highly recommended!