Before reading this novel, I decided to look at some reviews
of others on the book. I was surprised to see descriptions including
‘far-fetched’ and ‘a rambling description’, however I concluded that I would
judge the book for myself without relying on other people’s conclusions. Upon
reading the novel, I found these things to not be an issue in my reading
experience! The portrayal of the novel as ‘far-fetched’, seems to be a harsh
judgement bearing in the mind that the genre of the book was mystery, so if there
had not been anything of this ilk then I probably would have been concerned!
The portrayal of the author, Edelheit’s, work as ‘rambling’ also does not seem
to fit the novel that I read. I found the novel to be engaging and the voice of
the Sam, to be relatable and easy to read.
Other reviews aside, I very much enjoyed the plot of the
story which, without giving too much away, is full of twists and turns. Sam as
a character was someone with which you feel sympathy and admiration for, for
the determination and effort she applies to solving the mystery. Other
characters are also well developed giving you a real sense of what it would be
like to live in a small town with numerous personalities and charms.
The novel is not what you would expect and I mean that in a
good sense. Edelheit gives you all facts, yet fools you in the end, pulling a
cat out of the bag that you were by no means imagining. I was very impressed
with her style, having been reading mysteries for a number of years.
To conclude, ‘The Puzzle’ by Peggy Edelheit is a great story
that will keep you on your toes with a can’t-stop-reading effect.
ONE SENTENCE: Looking forward to reading another of
Edelheit’s future novels!
