Thrice the Brinded Cat Hath Mew'd: A Flavia de Luce Novel

NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER Hailed as a combination of Eloise and Sherlock Holmes by The Boston Globe, Flavia de Luce returns in a much anticipated new Christmas mystery from award-winning and New York Times bestselling author Alan Bradley.

In spite of being ejected from Miss Bodycote s Female Academy in Canada, twelve-year-old Flavia de Luce is excited to be sailing home to England. But instead of a joyous homecoming, she is greeted on the docks with unfortunate news: Her father has fallen ill, and a hospital visit will have to wait while he rests. But with Flavia s blasted sisters and insufferable cousin underfoot, Buckshaw now seems both too empty and not empty enough. Only too eager to run an errand for the vicar s wife, Flavia hops on her trusty bicycle, Gladys, to deliver a message to a reclusive wood-carver. Finding the front door ajar, Flavia enters and stumbles upon the poor man s body hanging upside down on the back of his bedroom door. The only living creature in the house is a feline that shows little interest in the disturbing scene. Curiosity may not kill this cat, but Flavia is energized at the prospect of a new investigation. It s amazing what the discovery of a corpse can do for one s spirits. But what awaits Flavia will shake her to the very core.

Praise for Thrice the Brinded Cat Hath Mew d

Mystery fans seeking novels of wit, an immersive English countryside setting, and rich characterizations will be rewarded with this newest entry in the award-winning series. Library Journal (starred review)

There is such a thing as willing suspension of disbelief brought on by sheer outlandish charm, and that s what [Alan] Bradley and some delicious writing have tapped. London Free Press

Flavia s first-person narration reveals her precocious intellect as well as her youthful vulnerability. Shelf Awareness

Flavia is once again a fun, science-loving protagonist. . . . This series entry ends on a note that begs for the next story. Library Reads

An eleven-year-old prodigy with an astonishing mind for chemistry and a particular interest in poisons. The Strand Magazine (Five of the Best Historical Heroines)

Bradley s preteen heroine comes through in the end with a series of deductions so clever she wants to hug herself. So will you. Kirkus Reviews