Review of Kills Well with Others by Deanna Raybourn
There’s something wonderfully comforting about revisiting beloved characters, especially when they come with a sharp wit and a lifetime of stories. Deanna Raybourn’s Kills Well with Others, the sequel to Killers of a Certain Age, captured my attention as soon as I heard Billie, Helen, Mary Alice, and Natalie were back in action. It was the perfect antidote for a gloomy day filled with chores I couldn’t postpone any longer. As I settled into their world, I found my mood lifting, proving once again how profoundly a well-crafted narrative can influence our spirits.
In this installment, our formidable quartet of assassins, now in their charming 60s, are drawn back into a web of intrigue when they learn about a mole within their organization—the Museum, known for its morally ambiguous assignments. With a former employee found dead and a grim connection to one of their past targets, the stakes couldn’t be higher. The way Raybourn juxtaposes the frenetic thrill of their previous lives with their current semi-retirement perfectly illustrates the concept of aging with grace and humor. The adventure that unfolds leads them on a whirlwind journey across iconic locales from NYC to Sardinia, which is just as exhilarating as it is hilarious.
What really spoke to me in this novel was Raybourn’s seamless handling of dual timelines. She manages to weave past events with present circumstances, revealing necessary background at just the right moments. This technique breathed life into the characters and their histories without losing the pacing of the action. It felt refined compared to the first book, where I occasionally found myself wrestling with timelines and character ages. This time around, everything clicked into place, evoking a sense of nostalgia for the characters while moving their saga forward.
Of course, humor is a vital ingredient in Raybourn’s writing. I still chuckle thinking about the chicken episode! It’s moments like these that remind us of the absurdity of life, no matter the circumstances. The relationships among the women shine brightly, defined not only by their shared history of crime but by genuine affection and camaraderie. I appreciated how Raybourn nuanced their interactions—showcasing both the comedic and poignant elements that real friendships entail.
One of the standout quotes that resonated with me was when one of the women mused about the unexpected joys of aging: "With age comes a certain freedom; we can finally do what we want.” This sentiment perfectly encapsulates the essence of their journey and echoes a relatable truth for many of us who dream of escaping societal norms.
In conclusion, Kills Well with Others is a delightful read for anyone who enjoys witty, dynamic characters set against a backdrop of thrilling escapades. It transcends the typical action genre by blending heart, humor, and a little bit of chaos in a way that’s delightfully comforting. If you find yourself seeking escapism with relatable characters that remind you to embrace life’s unpredictability, this book should definitely be on your TBR list. Personally, it not only brightened my day but also left me eagerly anticipating more of Raybourn’s engaging storytelling.
Discover more about Kills Well with Others (Killers of a Certain Age, #2) on GoodReads >>