Alan Bradley’s What Time the Sexton’s Spade Doth Rust is the latest addition to the beloved Flavia de Luce series. Known for blending cozy mystery with dark, gothic undertones, Bradley returns us to the quaint post-WWII English village of Bishop’s Lacey, where young Flavia, a chemistry prodigy, continues her adventures. This novel, set eight years after WWII, follows Flavia as she seeks to solve yet another perplexing murder, while also exploring new depths in her personal growth and relationships.
Plot Overview
In this installment, Flavia investigates the poisoning of Major Greyleigh, a former public hangman who becomes a murder victim. Suspicion quickly falls on Mrs. Mullet, the de Luce family cook, after it is revealed she prepared the victim’s last meal. However, Flavia is determined to clear her name, enlisting the help of Dogger, a war-torn but wise family ally, to uncover secrets that will alter the course of their lives. The novel offers plenty of twists and reveals, keeping the Mystery lively and engaging.
Character Development: A Maturing Flavia
Flavia has always been a vibrant character, capturing readers’ hearts with her sharp wit and precocious intelligence. However, in this novel, we see a more mature side to her. While she retains her inquisitive nature and knack for getting involved in everyone’s business, Flavia is no longer the child she once was. Her experiences in this story mark a turning point in her journey, as she navigates both the Mystery and her changing relationships with those around her, especially her young cousin Undine. Flavia’s bond with Dogger deepens, cementing him as both a mentor and father figure, a connection that adds a layer of emotional richness to the story.
The Darker Side of Bishop’s Lacey
While previous novels in the series have always had a slightly dark undercurrent, What Time the Sexton’s Spade Doth Rust feels grittier than its predecessors. The Mystery of Major Greyleigh’s death takes readers into murkier waters, touching on themes of betrayal, hidden family secrets, and long-buried guilt. This novel introduces more complex moral dilemmas, and readers may find themselves questioning the motives of even the most seemingly innocent characters. The darker tone serves to underscore the growing complexity of Flavia’s world as she matures.
Strengths and Weaknesses of the Novel
Bradley continues to impress with his ability to create a richly detailed world. The small, insular nature of Bishop’s Lacey is brought to life through his vivid descriptions, with every location and character contributing to the atmosphere of mystery. Flavia’s unconventional methods of investigation, along with her humor and intelligence, remain as delightful as ever.
However, some long-time readers of the series may find the novel’s pacing slower than previous installments. The buildup to the climactic resolution is gradual, and while the twists are engaging, they might feel somewhat predictable to avid mystery readers. Additionally, Undine’s role in this book—positioned as a pest to Flavia, much like Flavia was to her older sisters—divides opinion. Some may find Undine’s constant meddling endearing, while others, like one reader noted, feel she distracts from the main plot.
Final Thoughts: A Must-Read for Flavia Fans
Overall, What Time the Sexton’s Spade Doth Rust is a solid entry in the Flavia de Luce series. It continues the tradition of mixing cozy mystery with clever sleuthing while showing a more nuanced side of Flavia as she faces new challenges. Readers who have been following Flavia’s journey will appreciate the deeper emotional layers and darker tone, even if the novel’s slower pace and Undine’s antics aren’t to everyone’s taste. For newcomers, this novel offers enough intrigue and charm, but starting with the earlier books might provide a better introduction to Flavia’s captivating world.
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