Cheryl G

I thoroughly enjoyed this book. I liked Charles' simultaneous investigations on two unrelated cases and his travels between London and the outskirts. I found the quirky villagers amusing, and the characters were well developed. I think this book would be a great read for a not-too serious book club.

The Art of Baking Blind is a quick, brainless read, perfect for a beach or an airplane. The best way I can describe this book is disjointed - traveling back in time and when in the present - moving from character to character. It focused on the lives of a few of the characters much more than the others, even leaving an ending open for some of them. I suppose it would appeal to an avid baker, but without recipes, it would have limited value. Mostly I didn't like the ending of the book, finishing with an exchange that occurred before the main part of the book took place. I prefer a book with more depth and insight.

The back cover told the entire plot of the book, except for the predictable ending. I wanted to like the characters, but there was nothing exceptional about any of their personalities. This book is not deep enough for a book club. It should not be read by anyone who has recently lost a loved one. I had a hard time finishing the book because I did not feel vested in it.