The Long Way Home

by Louise Penny
The Long Way Home cover
Good Books rating 4.23
Thriller/Suspense
Technical:
  • ID: 1948
  • Added: 2025-10-11
  • Updated: 2025-10-11
  • ISBN: 9781405529488
  • Publisher: Hachette UK
  • Published: 2014-08-26
  • Formats: 1
  • Reviews: 3
Buy online
Waterstones
Paperback • £9.99

Clara Morrow's husband is missing, and she seeks the help of former Chief Inspector Armand Gamache. As Gamache delves into the case, he discovers Peter Morrow's desperate attempts to reclaim his artistic fame, leading to a dangerous web of jealousy and deceit. Gamache's investigation not only puts him in peril but also threatens those closest to him, raising the question of whether he can safely uncover the truth.

Reviews
Eustea Reads · Eustacia Tan · 2019-04-05
Thoughtful 4.00

The book explores Gamache's retirement and his internal struggles, offering a slower pace but rich character development. It's a departure from the usual mystery-driven plots.

Eustacia Tan notes that this book is quite different from the others in the series because Gamache is no longer with the Sûreté. This change allows for a more introspective and character-driven story. She appreciates the depth of Gamache's character and the exploration of his personal journey. However, she mentions that the slower pace might not appeal to everyone, especially those who enjoy the fast-paced mysteries of the earlier books. Overall, she finds the book to be a refreshing change that highlights Penny's skill in character development.

Quick quotes

    This book is different from the rest of the books because Gamache is no longer with the Surete – after the events of the last book, he has finally retired.

    It's a slower pace, but it's a welcome change that allows for more introspection and character development.

    Louise Penny's writing is as beautiful as ever, and her characters are as compelling as they've always been.

Barbara Casey · Barbara Casey · 2015-09-22
Profound 4.50

The book is a profound exploration of courage, belonging, and redemption, with less emphasis on murder and mayhem. It's a meditation on life and human nature.

Barbara Casey highlights that this novel is more about introspection and reflection rather than the typical mystery and suspense found in other books in the series. She praises the intricate weaving of themes such as courage, belonging, and redemption. Casey appreciates the depth of the characters and the philosophical undertones, making it a more contemplative read. She also notes that while there is a mystery, it's not the central focus, which might be a departure for some readers but adds a unique layer to the story.

Quick quotes

    An intricately woven mystery about courage, belonging, and redemption.

    Not much murder and mayhem; a lot of introspection and reflection.

    This novel is a profound exploration of human nature and the search for meaning.

The New York Times · The New York Times · 2014-08-28
Compelling 4.20

The book captures the magic of earlier Gamache mysteries while exploring deeper themes of life and inspiration. It's a compelling read that balances mystery with introspection.

The New York Times reviewer notes that 'The Long Way Home' successfully recaptures the charm and depth of the earlier Gamache mysteries. The reviewer appreciates how the story delves into the complexities of Gamache's character and his journey of self-discovery. They also highlight the beautiful prose and the way Penny weaves together themes of life, art, and inspiration. The reviewer finds the book to be a compelling blend of mystery and introspection, making it a standout in the series.

Quick quotes

    In Louise Penny's 'The Long Way Home,' a battered former detective retreats to an idyllic town, but gets drawn into the mystery of a missing person.

    The novel beautifully balances the mystery with a deep exploration of Gamache's inner world.

    Penny's writing is as evocative as ever, creating a rich and immersive experience for the reader.

Appears in Lists