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This is the 15th (!), and last (for now), book in Elly Griffiths’ wonderful Ruth Galloway series. After 14 books, you have to wonder if there’s any more story to tell here. How many murders can Ruth, an archeologist living in a small town in England, get herself involved with? How many people can fall in love with her?
I don’t know the answer to any of those questions, but I can tell you that while I think this is a very satisfying conclusion to the series, I want to continue my yearly visits with these characters.
And that’s exactly why I love this series so much and why the long-running mystery series is a thing; people love the characters. “The Last Remains” really brings your attention to just how many people have populated these books over the years as Ruth runs into many and revisits adventures past.
I couldn’t help but think that Elly Griffiths was feeling the pressure of her fictional universe a bit while reading this, and yet I still think it is a fine addition to the series.
Certainly, don’t start the series here. That would be madness. If you haven’t had the pleasure of reading any Ruth Galloway books, start with the first. I have a sneaking suspicion that you’ll find yourself tucking into this book much sooner than you might think (these books go down easy!).
Elly Griffiths has written about her decision to end (?) the series here. She says that while this is the last Ruth book for now, it may not be the last one forever.
Here’s hoping Ruth visits Elly with an idea she can’t resist.