Tips for Reading the Chief Inspector Gamache books by Louise Penny

[@I3ehr]

I can’t begin to describe how special this series is to me. ❤ Much love to Ralph Cosham and his Audible performances. He is Gamache. RIP

[@CorinneHSmith]

Agreed!

[@alexi.c]

I have not started this series and am thankful for your spoiler free overview.

[@BettyGribble-k2e]

Thank you, Corinne! Love Louise Penny and all her characters... visit them like old friends and re-read them preferred to reading any other author. I agree with you about the movie version. I see them so clearly in my mind as Louise wrote them and do not want any other interpretation. You are brilliant also.

[@CorinneHSmith]

Thanks for watching! Not sure about brilliance, though. :-)

[@helenes52]

I was born in Montreal. I lived in Quebec for several years before we moved to Connecticut. I have the privilege of listening the series in French. Also I'm a Native American my family still lives on the reservation in Quebec. I've had the opportunity to go to many places that is mentioned in this book

[@CorinneHSmith]

Good for you, Mary! Thanks for sharing.

[@sheilaboland6285]

I LOVE these books!

[@CorinneHSmith]

A new book in the series will arrive on October 29, 2024!

[@kathleenkalt3852]

Definitely read the books in order. Otherwise, you will will find spoilers about relationships, certain activities and behaviors. The character development is so critical to my enjoying these books that I told my husband he should read them in order. He gave me the 17th book for Christmas last year and I had to explain that I had to read 12 other books first. I didn't want him to be insulted. Penny's descriptions of food are so good they make you hungry. She is not just about plot or character development but also setting. I agree that for non Quebecois, it is a foreign setting. I just love Jean Guy's perspectives on the "English" don't you? My mother was born in Montreal. Her family was considered "English" because they were Irish and spoke English.

[@CorinneHSmith]

Thanks for your knowledgeable response! Yes, Jean Guy is a hoot. He's certainly one of the characters who changes over time, over the course of the books. And yes, please read them in order. Um, maybe more than once??? Thanks!

[@tonistokes1790]

There is a city east of Montreal on the north shore called Trois-Rivières or ThreeThree Rivers. I wonder if this was Penny’s inspiration for the name Three Pines?

[@tonistokes1790]

Charlevoix is a beautiful region that attracts artists.

[@tonistokes1790]

The Eastern Townships is known for its English towns and villages many of which were founded by British Loyalists.

[@tonistokes1790]

We usually answer the question how are you, with I’m fine, whether we are or not. It is a polite response that allows you to move on with no discussion.

[@motherofone1]

The only tip you need is read them in order!!!!! Excellent series by the way.....💖

[@jennifermanian1420]

I love Ruth Zardo! Very best character written! My dad is a judge in our city and Armand reminds me so much of him.

[@CorinneHSmith]

Wouldn't you just want to hide in a corner chair in the bistro (or in Clare's house) and catch Ruth's zingers to every comment being made? And to pat Rosa on the head and tell her how good she is? (Ducks often are.) :-)

[@lizziejohns]

Yes, definitely, because of Louise Penny’s writing. It just flows and draws you in.

[@juliehartley5257]

Love this series. Just finished Bury your Dead and I’m going back and rereading Still life or I may listen to it. I disagree with Corinne on one thing. She recommends if you read them out of order to start with #6 Bury Your Dead and go forward. I disagree. I think you would need to start with The Brutal Telling bc of the ending of that book carrying thru #6. That’s just my take on it. Corinne did a great job here. She was exactly right about the series qualities and things to watch for etc. I’m going back to Still life to pick up on the ‘Fine’ again! And, even though I took 2 yrs of French in High School, I am struggling with some of the French pronounciations… I’ll check out the Louise Penny guide.

[@CorinneHSmith]

Cool! Thanks for sharing! In the later books, "FINE" doesn't show up very often, alas. In fact, I just finished re-reading "The Madness of Crowds," and FINE wasn't in there at all, that I recall. Hope Louise brings it back again.

[@juliehartley5257]

Oh as soon as I saw it I did Remember it! So funny.

[@philologus6577]

I'm one of those rare male readers of Louise Penny and just love the series. I picked up a copy of Still Life shortly after it was released and have purchased every novel since. I was looking for something to read that was similar to PD James and the characters of her books drew me right in. I'm currently reading through the series again and I discover things I missed my first two or even three times through. She is a wonderful author and her prose and style are among the best I have read in the mystery genre.

[@CorinneHSmith]

Indeed! Thanks for sharing.

[@jeshobbs]

❤ I love rereading this series and go back to Three Pines and live with the characters again. I reread the series when each new book comes out. 😊😊😊😊

[@CorinneHSmith]

Good for you! I read only a handful this fall, before "The Grey Wolf." Will have to do better for the next book, next fall. 🙂

[@elizabethcanales7170]

Outstanding presentation! Thank you!

[@jabolbot9371]

Thank you. I just came across your channel. Love the Louise Penny series!

[@janetadeletti5868]

I am a big fan of Louise Penny's book and appreciate your review. Merci beaucoup.

[@dianatheriault2913]

I didn't become a fan until Amazon put Three Pines on a series. Now I'm collecting the books on tape in order! So glad to have seen your talk on Louise Penny's writing of Quebec. Thank you.

[@krisanderson9823]

Great 30 minutes. Thank you Corrine. I was delighted!

[@carolefreeman2544]

The Audiobooks narrated by Adam Sims are marvellous. He uses French Canadian accents as well as a British accent for Chief Inspector Armand Gamache when he is speaking in English to an Anglophone. He also speaks in French when using terms of endearment and of course a few swear words. This reminds me so much of when I lived in a suburb of Montreal in the late 60’s when I first moved to Canada. It also reminds me of Quebec and how beautiful it was in Winter. I love hearing the French Canadian Accent. It was a wonderful experience living there for almost 3 years. Being Bilingual is what made Canada special to me.

[@jigglyjojo]

I really enjoyed listening to you talk about the series. I’ve read them all so it’s like we’re discussing old friends. Which we are in a way. Also your laugh is very addictive. Thank you.

[@CorinneHSmith]

Hah! Thanks for watching. Can't wait until we have a new book to talk about ...

[@carybradley3968]

Thanks so much for your tips to enjoy to the fullest. Definitely appreciate knowing when the major events are so as to prepare a bit, haha. Love these stories!

[@CorinneHSmith]

Thanks for watching! The next Gamache book comes in October 2024. We'll prepare ahead of time, again.

[@barbarawest1205]

Corinne, I too am a retired librarian in the States and a huge fan of Louise Penny and Armand Gamache. I agree with Every. Word. You. Said. Except I'm a little more rigid that you about the first 5 books - I think all the Three Pines mysteries should be read in order. And like you, I reread starting about 2-3 months before the next title comes out. I have always started from the beginning but this year I may have to cut back just because there are so many now! My two favorite lines from Jean-Guy: "Who names their child after a legume?" and his puzzlement over "Abbe' Hoffman."

[@CorinneHSmith]

Thanks for your kind comments, Barbara! One of MY favorite Jean-Guy reactions is an early one, from the second book, A FATAL GRACE, in chapter Seventeen. Armand quotes someone famous, and when Jean-Guy looks confused, Armand clarifies by simply saying, "Emerson." Jean-Guy asks, "Lake and Palmer?" And Armand replies, "Ralph and Waldo." Jean-Guy ends up with the song "Lucky Man" in his head, wondering who "Emerson, Ralph, and Waldo" could be ... :-)

[@sharonbernard7919]

I've been listening to this series over the last year. Just finished number 9--"How the light gets in." I love listening as you hear the proper pronunciation of all the French words and the reader, Ralph Codham, is fantastic. There is an interview with him at the end of Book 9.

[@CorinneHSmith]

Thanks for this response, Sharon! Maybe I should try listening to the books. Although I really like the option of re-reading certain paragraphs and pages in some sections. It's harder to do that on a CD. The next new book in the series is scheduled for release on November 29, 2022. I'm going to backtrack and start reading a handful of ones leading up to it, beginning on September 1.

[@lianeanderson2800]

@@CorinneHSmith you would enjoy the audiobooks. Ralph Cosham had a wonderful voice!, as does Robert Bathurst, who took over after Mr. Cosham died. Dig out a jigsaw puzzle and put on an audiobook!

[@CorinneHSmith]

Thanks, Liane. I listen to audiobooks during my daily commutes. But I limit myself to memoirs and autobiographies, so that folks can tell me their stories, as if they're sitting in the passenger seat. Fiction takes more imagination on my part, and it's more difficult to concentrate on driving ... :-)

[@barbclark69]

Corinne, what fun to find you today. I just subbed your channel. I'm just about half way through the Curiosities book, and don't want it to be over, so I set it down. I may wait till I've forgotten the first part and start it afresh. The only element of these books you didn't mention was the incredible audio productions of them. Ralph Cosham, who died mid way through the series, was an incredible reader and so completely brought the characters to life. I listen to them all over and over. The new reader, Robert Bathurst, is also good, but Cosham was superlative. I like your idea of starting two months ahead of the new book with the previous five books. I listen to them through our library's Library to Go, and they are my bedtime stories.

[@CorinneHSmith]

Thanks for sharing your experiences, Barbara. I had heard that the first narrator of the books was excellent. I can't listen to fiction while I commute -- it's too distracting. And I fully understand about putting the book down, multiple times. You almost don't want to know what comes next. And you also don't want the story to end. But then curiosity gets the better of you, and you have to open it up and turn pages again. I'm on my second reading of "A World of Curiosities," and I keep putting it down. ......

[@cmt8783]

I, too, have enjoyed Ralph Cosham’s narrations of these books. I discovered this series this year and just finished book 10 which was his last. I didn’t know he had died until I read your comments. I feel so sad and will miss his voice so much. He added so much warmth to the characters- I feel I know them better because of him.

[@uptown3636]

This video is a delightful reminder of all the wonderful aspects to Penny's work. I'm only a few books in, but I think I'll revisit it this winter.

[@CorinneHSmith]

Thanks! These books make for WONDERFUL wintertime reading. Have at it!

[@pageluvva]

What a wonderful half hour of my life. Thank you. I am only on book 2 but LOVING them. And I am lucky to have lived in Knowlton for 3 months. It is as nice as the books make it out to be (if that is where it is 🤔)

[@CorinneHSmith]

Thanks for your kind comments! And good for you, being able to understand the region where the books are set. Happy Reading!

[@knolting1543]

Thoroughly enjoyed your video! I have become a big fan of Louise Penny! Thank you.

[@CorinneHSmith]

Thanks for watching! We'll all be happy when the next Gamache book comes out next year. :-)

[@annac9534]

My aunt just recently, graciously let me borrow the entire series accompanied by a list in which to read them. I found this video at the perfect time, and I quite enjoyed your perspective on the settings and characters. Thank you for this comforting and informational video. (I also love a good map.)

[@CorinneHSmith]

Thanks for your kind comments. Happy reading!

[@khandiesjourney]

THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR THIS VIDEO. I literally was looking to see if they were stand alone or could be started at any point. I did not want to make a mistake by purchasing somewhere in the middle like book 6 and be confused as to what was going on. I will now start from the beginning.

[@CorinneHSmith]

I think you'll enjoy the series much more by going in order. Happy reading! And thanks for the kind comments.

[@janetuesday6473]

Have read the entire series twice. Picked up her latest the day it came out in the bookstores. Going to spend a stormy winter day to read it. Love them, can't wait for each new book.

[@CorinneHSmith]

Good for you, Jane! Happy reading!

[@dianetaylor1085]

Just discovered the series and empowering through in order. Have gone through the first five and am totally hooked

[@CorinneHSmith]

Enjoy the read! Lots of intrigue lies ahead.

[@lindaselover2536]

I work in 2 small town libraries in California and I enjoy introducing people to Inspector Gamache. I don't have all of the books, so I need to request them for people, so they often start somewhere in the middle, then decide to request the rest of the books. I have not see the TV movie/series yet.

[@donnasieron4129]

Great video! For anyone else looking for the pronunciation guide, it's now buried in the FAQs page.

[@CorinneHSmith]

Thanks, Donna!

[@Myrosieday]

Just found your channel and subscribed! I love a good detective story 😎 Going to check out the first book now. Thank you ~ Mary

[@CorinneHSmith]

Happy reading! The next one comes out in November. You've got good timing to catch up. :-)

[@kathryncrowder5735]

Enjoyed your commentary and your tips...Presently rereading the series..

[@katherinelarini8514]

My family (French Canadian from Quebec) emigrated to New England early in the 1900's, so when I came across these books, I was so excited... with two years of French in high school and family still speaking some french (my mémère especially), I was able to read and understand most of the French in the books - made them much more enjoyable... unfortunately, I never got to Quebec to visit family and with my recent late-in-life move to NC, I don't think I ever will get to visit - but, that would be the icing on the cake if I did... thanks so much for this video; it makes me want to re-read all the books...

[@CorinneHSmith]

Thanks for sharing, Katherine! I heartily recommend a visit to rural Quebec, if you can.

[@lindaselover2536]

Quebec is not that far from NC. Look into trains and buses if you don't want to fly. Definitely worth a visit. I wish that I could drive around up there to really see the countryside. In 1976, after the Olympics in Montreal, I hitchhiked to Quebec, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island, then back to Maine via Nova Scotia and back up to Montreal. At age 73, I am less likely to go hitchhiking again, but it was great fun. The French speakers could understand my French (learned in Paris) but I could not always understand their Quebecois.

[@kimd.7846]

I love this series! I've read them all but didn't know there was a movie version on Amazon Prime. Thank you!

[@CorinneHSmith]

Happy viewing! Although, just so you know: some fans are still preferring the books instead. I'm sticking to the books, myself. I already know what the people and the places look like, in my head.

[@karma13612]

@@CorinneHSmith Having only just watched the movie, I now have a great image of the Inspector. So, time to start reading the series. So glad I just stumbled on this video.❤

[@cbrashsorensen]

Just read one of the books in a book club. Probably my 2023 book series. Just finished that last of the Jacqueline Winspear "Maise Dobbs" and loved every damn one of them. Found your channel by accident. Love me a series. 2022 was Winspear AND Robert Jordan - mystery and fantasy was an interesting combination.

[@CissyPantsCrafts]

Yep and I did start with Nancy Drew. Just started the series and I did bounce around a bit because my curiosity got the best of me and I wanted to know what was going to happen with his career. I stopped and went back to reading them in order. On Quebec Not exotic but an enigma to us as most of us know very little about most places unfortunately. Their relationship to the English speaking Canada and to France is also intriguing. Thanks thanks for the info.

[@CorinneHSmith]

Agreed on all counts! Thanks for sharing.

[@belwynne1386]

Don’t forget Trixie Beldon, too.

[@CorinneHSmith]

Ah. I never tried reading the Trixie Beldon books. I had an elementary school friend who kept up with The Happy Hollisters, though.

[@t0dd000]

My mother loved this author. I have never read her. My mother passed away recently. I am going to write to the author and let her know how much my mother loved her work. And, I have added her books to my TBR pile. Thanks for this video. Nice introduction.

[@CorinneHSmith]

That's a nice idea to share the story about your mother with Louise Penny herself, Todd. And sure, give the books a try on your own. I'll bet your mother would appreciate all of this.

[@deniseroberts571]

Read them all in order.

[@lynnnelson6880]

I love Louise Penny’s books! I’ve read them all. Currently reading “A World of Curiosities”

[@CorinneHSmith]

Enjoy the read!

[@MadonnaGrogan]

Just finished it, great

[@jo-annayres5254]

Great stories! Love the characters of Three Pines. 😊

[@colettem.7064]

Thank you, Corinne - so enjoyable!😃 I have “Still Life” in paperback, so that’s where I’ll start. Currently watching “Three Pines” on the weekend via Amazon Prime.📺

[@CorinneHSmith]

Good for you! And thanks for the kind comments.

[@kathleendunham6122]

The movie based on still life is better than the tv show. Of course the books are superior

[@rjvagabond5240]

I'm a global traveler but have no facility for languages. Despite frequent trips to France and Canada and lifelong exposure to French writing, I'm still at a loss with the French language. I recognize many of the words when I read them but not know how to pronounce them - or - I recognize the spoken word but not in its written form. When I started reading the Three Pines books I did something I'd seldom done before; I would download a book from the series both in e-book and e-audio formats. I would then read along as I listened to the story with the hope that between the written and audible text I could follow more fully the story as it wound from English to French and back to English. It was a fun way to enjoy a story as it unfolded. Unfortunately, I haven't been able to use this method in the last few books as they've become so popular at my libraries that I can get the next book in one format or the other, after long wait periods, but seldom two together.

[@CorinneHSmith]

Wow, that's dedication! I understand. I'm currently "reading" a French novel by re-typing every paragraph into Google Translate. I feel as though I'm learning more as I go. But of course, it's only on the printed page / screen. I took one semester of French, so I know SOME pronunciation. The more exposure we get to the language, the more comfortable we'll be with it. At least, this is my hope. Good luck, too!

[@fionamartin4281]

I’ve read them all, in order. I’m arranging to move to Three Pines to live with Armand 👍

[@CorinneHSmith]

Reine-Marie might have something to say about that. Maybe Clare has an extra room behind her studio ... :-)

[@fionamartin4281]

@@CorinneHSmith That would be a start 😉

[@kathlynterry8196]

I love that you pulled out the map! I always want to,know where I am and what it looks like spatially.

[@barbaraboethling596]

This was a terrific and very helpful video! Thanks for your insights! I've read 3 books so far, and love everything about them. Actually, I'm enjoying them as audio books. They are very well done, and I'm totally hooked. I will definitely check out the author website for the pronunciation guide!

[@ingridmohr9824]

I love re-reading or re-listening to the series!

[@CrazyCatzLady2025]

I read book 4 first by accident. I liked it so thought I'd buy book 1. Then after finishing book 3, I reread book 4 which really made more sense. I'm now on book 12. I agree with you, read them in order.

[@CorinneHSmith]

Thanks for sharing, Sue! I'll bet a lot of readers enter the series "in progress" and then find it worthwhile to go to the first book and move forward from there.

[@galloping3265]

Thanks for reminding me of how wonderful the books are! I must revisit 3 Pines! It's been awhile!

[@CorinneHSmith]

I'm sure the village will welcome you back. Well, maybe not Ruth. Maybe not Rosa, either. You never can tell, with ducks. :-)

[@kathifoynm]

Thank you so much for this guide to reading Louise Penny’s series. I have a trip planned to Quebec City next June and so I’m reading the series IN ORDER, even though I have read a couple of them (shudder) out of order in book clubs etc. I found that my library only has the most recent books. There are series groupings of books available-ex 1-5-on Amazon, but I found them to be a bit expensive. So, I went to used book stores on line and purchased the first five for a few dollars, including postage. I’m halfway through Still Life and look forward to settling down in Quebec for the months leading up to my trip. I noticed, while googling Quebec City, that there are guided tours of the settings. As you know, Louise Penny is on a book tour for #18 as I write this comment. One thing she said about her process was that she just writes what she sees and that her husband Michael is the prototype for Gamache. One other thing, I love maps as well and use Google maps to find my way around the setting. Happy reviewing.

[@karma13612]

Thank you so much for reviewing this author and series. I just saw the TV series Three Pines, not realizing it was based on this author’s books. I enjoyed the actor they cast as the Chief Inspector and can’t wait to read the entire series, with his image in my imagination. Just perfect! ❤️🙋‍♀️👏👍🎬🎞🎥🍿

[@carolefreeman2544]

The books are so much better than the tv series. The tv series does not follow the books correctly. Please read the books they are fantastic

[@karma13612]

@@carolefreeman2544 on my must read list, as we speak! Happy Renewed Celestial Orbit! 🎉🥳

[@northernerinnc3179]

For years friends kept telling me I "had" to read Louise Penny's Gamache series. And when I finally did I listened to them on cd's, read the books, until I reached the then end of the series..... and I turned around and re-read them all over again. And for my birthday recently my daughter gave me the latest book. I need to take myself off the library where I am 116th on hold for the book!

[@lorettadesio1365]

Corinne, Very well done ! Great info, insight and recommendations. Please consider recommending / coveringsome other mysteries and series. I can tell it takes a lot to do your videos but would love to hear more about the books you love. Thank you.

[@CorinneHSmith]

Thanks for your kind comments, Loretta! I used to keep up with DOZENS of mystery series. I can recommend those by Sue Grafton, Jennifer Chiaverini, Jess Lourey, Earlene Fowler, Nevada Barr, Warren Easley, Jo Dereske, Susan Wittig Albert, and William Tapply, as a good start.

[@Neko123Uchiha]

Thanks for the introduction! I've picked up reading more last year and quickly settled with Detective series being my favorite genre. I have a long list still to read but I think I start the year with the Gamache series. Looking forward to a more cozy-feeling series. All of the ones I read in 2021 were set in LA... so I'm kind of over big city cops haha

[@CorinneHSmith]

Time was, when MOST mysteries and detective series WERE set in big cities, mostly in New York or in Los Angeles. They kind of left out a lot of territory. It's been a relief to read books set in other places: especially in ones that you may not have thought much about, before. I hope you find good books ahead!

[@lindah.1104]

Thank you for not spoiling the books! I have listened to movie and book reviews where basically they rehash the whole story- ending and all!

[@CorinneHSmith]

Indeed, Linda! I'd rather lead you to the books and let you have your own experience with them. Thanks for watching. Happy reading!

[@jan2bratt]

Love these books, really wish I had read them in order, it does help a lot. One thing I learned that I didn't hear you address, maybe it isn't even true, but I read somewhere that the poems supposedly written by Ruth, are actually written by Margaret Atwood. I enjoyed your video presentation, thanks!

[@frankvghn1955]

Thank you Corrine. I only sought to find out about "the madness of crowds" because somebody mentioned it in a video I watched on KZbin. But now I have discovered about this whole series of books, I'm tempted to start at the beginning. 🤔

[@CorinneHSmith]

Yes, Frank, please do read them all, and in order! The 18th Armand Gamache book is scheduled for release on November 29, 2022. Plenty of time between now and then to read the other 17. :-)

[@frankvghn1955]

@@CorinneHSmith Your stack of all the books 📚 each side of you as you spoke certainly was intriguing, books have that effect on me. And maps also, I love ❤️ maps as you do, they are intriguing as well and have an alluring quality.

[@frankvghn1955]

@@CorinneHSmith And talk about intrigue, I've read your review of 'State of Terror' by Hillary Rodham Clinton and Louise Penny. I'm no lover of Hillary Clinton especially after her role in the Benghazi affair not to mention the Steel dossier, paid for by Hillary and the DNC, pushing (unfounded) Russia collusion narrative onto President Trump that lasted for about 3yrs or more and took up so much time I doubt Congress had time left to do much else.

[@CorinneHSmith]

Both books and maps hold lots of new possibilities for us.

[@pamostman516]

I think I qualify. Yesterday we had -8 F actual temperature with winds between 30-40 mph, lol. I will have to check these books out.

[@CorinneHSmith]

These are terrific books to read during the winter months. Enjoy!

[@doveandolive1153]

I came across this author just browsing the local library. I must have been living under a rock on how I never read a book by Louise Penny. So happy to have join the club ♥ Great reading and can't put the books down, so enjoyable. Just finished the second book (Canadian copy titles Dead Cold) Never truly understood why publishers change the name for different countries.

[@CorinneHSmith]

It took me some time to jump on the bandwagon too, Barbara! But once I did, Wow. I read the first book and was immediately hooked. But it came at a point in my life when I was occupied with other things. And I thought, "I've GOT to come back to these books some day, when I can take my time and read the whole series, one after another." Which was at least 6-8 books, back then. I'm thankful I eventually made room for these books. Literally. I started by checking out library books, and quickly moved to buying my own copies, preferably in hardcover. I knew I would want to re-read them. Which beforehand, I RARELY did with books, even favorite ones. Happy reading!

[@doveandolive1153]

@@CorinneHSmith funny how we can be drawn to books and want to reread them even though we know the endings. I have 3 such books on my shelf: The Mist of Avalon by Marion Zimmer Bradley, In Cold Blood by Truman Capote and Life is so Good by Geroge Dawson and Richard Glaubman. All so different but feel like an old family friend!

[@CorinneHSmith]

Wow. I should read "In Cold Blood" someday. I know exactly what the book looks like, since almost every library I've worked in had a copy. Thanks for the prompt!

[@Lynnefromlyn]

@@doveandolive1153 I read the mists of `Avalon decades ago as a young wife and mother. I’ve still got the battered copy; haven’t read it for a long times but could never part with it! So good to hear from some one else who values it too.

[@doveandolive1153]

@@Lynnefromlyn My 1st time reading it was also decades ago, recommended by my then sister in law. It is such a magical story. I have a good 6 books to read and maybe just maybe start to reread this in 2023. Glad to have the kinship love of this novel ♥

[@Lavendare1023]

Thank you for answering my question. Do you need to read them in order? You have got me excited to start the journey with these characters ❤

[@CorinneHSmith]

YES! I ALWAYS recommend that you read the books in order, if at all possible. If ordering them through your local library system doesn't always allow for this, well, then, okay. But do your best to go in order. Everything will make more sense this way. Onward!

[@Imaginetheday1967]

Oh, people have to read them in order. There’s a story arc in the first 3 that could be ruined otherwise! I read the first 4, then took a break, but this has given me the push I needed to pick them up again. I may reread the 4th one, then continue on. I do love the characters in this series!

[@CorinneHSmith]

Happy reading! Take your time and savor the experience.

[@annesullivan177]

that was great thanks so much, as an Aussie I have just discovered Louise! what a joy!

[@CorinneHSmith]

Oh, you have some interesting and intriguing adventures ahead of you. Enjoy!

[@lorenericksen5075]

My first series was the Darkover series by Marion Zimmer Bradley. I had to have every book! I also enjoyed the two light mystery series by J. A. Jance, Joanna Brady and J. P. Beaumont. Nevada Barr's books were also very enjoyable. Love Louise Penny's books ... with your advice, I shall go through them in order.

[@RitaCwise]

You are right on!

[@CorinneHSmith]

Thanks a bunch, Christine!

[@ceetjedecee]

I’m a bit late to the party but thanks for the tip! Downloaded Still Life last night and addicted already. And so many good ones still waiting! A big thank you from Amsterdam!

[@CorinneHSmith]

The books keep getting better as you go along, too. Happy reading!

[@ceetjedecee]

Started in #5: The Brutal Telling. Yes, they keep getting better! 🎉

[@busgirl2591]

Being a somewhat-bilingual Anglophone, who was born and raised in Montreal, Quebec. (Now an Albertian.) I loved, loved!, LOVED! the Amazon Prime orginal series "Three Pines". Series is based on the writings of the wonderful author: Louise Penny. I haven't read any of her books yet (wth is wrong with me?!), but am planning to dive right in, in 2023.

[@CorinneHSmith]

Interesting that you came to the video series first, and then want to try to the books. Good luck! I hope they meet with your expectations.

[@lillypatience]

Thank you! I’m on book 3 and decided to try to watch Three Pines. I couldn’t get in to it because the characters, while named the same, they were not the same 😢. I went to Louise Penny’s site and did not see the link to the recorded pronunciations 😢.

[@CorinneHSmith]

Ah, Lilian. At least you know that you prefer the books now. I think Louise Penny's web site has changed a bit. I found the pronunciation guide link at the bottom of the FAQs page. louisepenny.com/pronunciation_guide.htm

[@lillypatience]

@@CorinneHSmith thank you!

[@annettefertitta6868]

The idea that these books were set in Quebec is what drew me in. I’m from New Orleans and ancestors that left the France and settled in Nova Scotia then later went on to Louisiana - like Longfellow’s Evangeline… I fell in love with the series and am currently re-reading the set. Because my husband and I took a cruise starting in New York and on through Quebec City, then Took Via Rail train to Montréal- we need to go back and take more time - we missed 4 ports because of a hurricane

[@CorinneHSmith]

How cool, Annette! Yes, rural Quebec offers a lot to see. Especially if you can speak French or have a companion with you who does. Lots of treasures can be found in the small towns. Little local museums, little shops of local craftsfolk and artists. I hope you get to go back and explore!

[@lb8822]

Hello I am from canada. Born and raised in Québec. And I am a fellow librarian. I just discovered uour channel. Love it. I totally agree with you about Louise Penny's body of work. It is my favorite mystery series. Thanks for paying tribute to her work. Best in mind that this is a fiction. Some things do not work like this in real life. But we do take our food and our coffee very seriously in Québec. I wonder if you watched the three pines series. I find that molina pays tribute to gsmachr. But I am very disappointed in the series so far the Books are much much better. They should be read in oder. It is imperative ! Thank you! Another Canadian mystery series that should be read is the Giles Blundt series Cardinal. Read them in order then watch the beautifies Cardinal. It pays great tribute to the series snd you can feel and see the northern Ontario winter. Really good as well. A lit more noise though.

[@CorinneHSmith]

Thanks for sharing! I'll definitely check out the Giles Blunt books. I've heard other fans expressing some disappointment with the TV series. I'm staying away from it, myself. I have the characters and the places already fully formed in my imagination. I don't want anyone else tampering with those impressions. :-)

[@janedrolet2807]

I absolutely love the books…love them! But I did enjoy the series a lot too. I try not to compare but just enjoy the series. At first I was disappointed in the Chief, he didn’t look like I expected….but I was won over by the good work.

[@CorinneHSmith]

Fair enough, Jane. To be open-minded and to see the books and the programs as being two different entities. A good rule to follow.

[@Stormbrise]

Given your comments on why these books are so popular, your third point especially, you must have loved this newest installment that was just released this last month. Especially talking about the time stamp of 19:12. Boy do you get a perspective in this book! Just wondering, what is your take on Martha Grimes, Richard Jury collection. I know they are more of a cozy mystery, but it is the first book of that series that really has led me down the garden path. Sue Grafton was a favorite because of a female hard boiled detective in the 80s. I fell out of love with Elizabeth George with the book that she decided that she needed one character less.

[@CorinneHSmith]

About the use of third-person point of view? Absolutely! It's the only way we understand what's happening in "A World of Curiosities." (And even then, of course, we don't see it ALL. We can't know EVERYTHING.) And also, in this newest book, we learn much more about Armand and Jean-Guy's first case together. Makes for compelling reading, for sure.

[@danib9845]

Ah! I thought I knew everything about the books, the locale, the characters, but throughout the years it never occurred to me that there is no local government in Three Pines. Good catch. Thank you for this review. You immediately caught my attention with the word ‘exotic’. As a Quebecer, and French Canadian (as my generation identifies), I never thought of Quebec as exotic, but from your POV, it makes sense. People should definitely visit Quebec if they get the chance, particularly the stunning Eastern Townships. I discovered Knowlton and the Lac Brome area thanks to a Louise Penny book launch. The B&B and restaurant in the Gamache books is actually inspired by a Knowlton Inn / restaurant where I stayed for one of her book launches.

[@CorinneHSmith]

Thanks, Dani! And I hope you understand that I use the word "exotic" with the best of intentions in mind. It's a good thing. This way, the reader is open to whatever setting the stories seem to have. It's unfamiliar territory to a lot of readers. And for some, it's an enticement to explore rural Quebec someday. I'll admit, I haven't explored enough of it yet. :-)

[@kathryndeloria1834]

Thank you.

[@williamthomson638]

I am reading A Better Man. It may be my last Louise Penny . Still wondering what to Jane's house. I liked the happiness of Three Pines. It didn't matter that she has no carry through.

[@sherrystengel9673]

Why have I never read this series? I will be starting this series in 2023! I’ve already printed off the maps...

[@CorinneHSmith]

LOL. Good for you! Happy reading!

[@markscovello]

We reread the books in anticipation of the new one too. We read them in order. The way characters are developed make that more enjoyable.

[@CorinneHSmith]

It's a comfortable feeling, revisiting the familiar characters again.

[@teresaduren1902]

Enjoyed your tips and insights!

[@CorinneHSmith]

Thank you!

[@Juliemorgana]

Just discovered this series.

[@CorinneHSmith]

Happy reading! The newest book is coming out at the end of October. You have time to catch up.

[@debandrews7415]

Getting ready to go back and read entire series again.

[@CorinneHSmith]

Have fun! It can be like hooking up with old friends again.

[@aganitavarkentine2]

I agree with you about almost all of this, but I think How the Light Gets In is one of the major books, and it is that that you need to read before the ones after it, rather than Glass Houses.

[@aganitavarkentine2]

It also helps to re-read because you find clues to future books that you would not recognize until you read future books.

[@CorinneHSmith]

Fair enough! Thanks for sharing.

[@tonistokes1790]

Snow drifts from snow that blows across the hughways from farm fields can be as challenging as snowstorms, especially with white outs.

[@julietgeorge9258]

Thank you! I agree on reading in sequence. I wish I had not begun by reading The Brutal Telling! Myrna, in my opinion, is as prominent a character as is Clara. I wanted to suggest an actor to the casting specialist at work on the forthcoming television series, but didn't know if there was any hope of reaching anyone involved.

[@CorinneHSmith]

I agree that Myrna is a great character in the series. She helps to bring a bit a logic and reasoning into Clara's orbit. They complement each other well as friends.

[@317susan]

Great video! I found you by accident while on KZbin. I've been a voracious reader my entire life, but listen to the audiobooks of this series. Even though I began listening with books 1-10 narrated by the late, great Ralph Cosham, I stuck around for Robert Bathurst- both excellent. I just finished A World of Curiosities. Love the characters and the world-building. I'm curious to know what you think of the TV series starring Alfred Molina. I was so pleased with the attention to detail- I think it's one of the finest book-to-(small) screen adaptations I've ever seen. I hope Amazon continues the series.

[@CorinneHSmith]

I'm sticking to the books, Susan. I'm comfortable with the way my own imagination has fashioned the characters and the places. Besides, I'm the manager of an independent bookstore. I don't patronize or say out loud the name of the big A. But I'm glad to hear that you're enjoying the series.

[@317susan]

@@CorinneHSmith I absolutely see your POV. I usually try my local library first for e and audiobooks, but I also buy physical books from Goodwill, library sales, Amazon, etc. (I live in a small town where there are no bookstores). I'm thrilled, though, that people seem to be so interested in literature no matter what the form.

[@LauraRodriguez-Peace]

Love this! Thank you. ☮️🧡📚

[@saraspangler890]

I love series where the characters grow and things happen in their lives that are talked about in the later books. I like to start at the beginning and read in order.

[@CorinneHSmith]

These books DEFINITELY allow the characters to grow ... and also to show us aspects of their thoughts, philosophies, and lives, that maybe we don't always expect. Really, just like in real life. Happy reading!

[@angrymoose3383]

Always remember: never, ever, ever, ever, ever, ever read these books while hungry. Also as a Canadian, you’d be surprised how many people (especially from provinces that are far away) find Quebec exotic.

[@CorinneHSmith]

Oh, for a quality bistro and a wonderful bakery, both located within just a few steps from one's house! :-)

[@lovemesomeslippers]

You are so right. And it seems like nothing in my house will satisfy. I want what they’re having!

[@MadonnaGrogan]

Yup food delibios in the books

[@tonistokes1790]

Have experience of staying indoors because of snow or in the case of winter 1998, the famous ice storm.

[@lesliechristian1941]

I have read all of the books, I want to move to Three Pines.

[@carolzwei794]

Hello!! This author and the first 3 books will be released in Brazil this year and I can't wait to read it Actually I have already bought the first one *pre order)

[@CorinneHSmith]

I sure hope you like them! Happy reading!

[@annettefertitta6868]

I love maps too!

[@isiah6713]

I’m currently reading that first book now as we speak I have the first 15 books in the series

[@CorinneHSmith]

Great reading adventures lie ahead for you! What fun!

[@isiah6713]

@@CorinneHSmith thank you I’m excited to get into this series

[@Angie-pl3uw]

I believe books such as these should be read in order. Characterization, in my opinion, is as important as plot in series books. The characters become people you know. Some become your friends, some you do not care for at all. But characters become real, three dimensional people when well written. I know Cherry Ames, Soames Forsyte, Ruth Galloway. And the list goes on. I am an a reader. What my life would have been like without books,I can’t even imagine. Again, my advice: read in order for maximum pleasure. Just as you don’t get to know people immediately, it’s important to ease into your friendship with characters and the place ( if it remains the same). Sorry, ex-lit teacher here!

[@CorinneHSmith]

Well stated indeed, Angie! I remember Cherry Ames, myself ...

[@BeckyInCa]

Thank you. I read Still Life a number of years ago and I'm just picking up the second book now.

[@CorinneHSmith]

Happy Reading! Interesting adventures lie ahead.

[@leitregjok2830]

I'm about a 3rd way through the monestery one and I'm finding it very difficult to keep paying attention to. It's the first one I'm having difficulties with so I hope it gets better but the damn monks bore me to tears 😂

[@CorinneHSmith]

The episode with the monks is a bit different since almost all of the action has to happen within the confines of the monastery. This IS an important episode, however. I hope you stick with it!

[@yvettem.holland5072]

Hello Corinne, Thanks so much for your enthusiastic introduction. I first read a Louise Penny novel last month ; it was State of Terror, and I really enjoyed it.

[@CorinneHSmith]

Thanks, Yvette. Yes, "State of Terror" was written with Hillary Clinton, and it's a compelling one. And Louise managed to include a small reference to Three Pines in the plot, too. Enough to tease new readers like you, and enough to appease fans of the Armand Gamache series. I hope you enjoy them, too!

[@jocelynmiller8029]

I missed where Jean Guy marries the Inspector’s daughter! What book was this relationship developed?

[@CorinneHSmith]

Book #9, "How the Light Gets In." It's been a while. Book #18 just came out. :-)

[@bookpiles6692]

Thank you for sharing, I enjoyed this. The series was recommended to me a while back but I'm uncertain of the 'gore' factor. I'd like to read a book/series about the solving of the crime and less about the blood and guts of the crime. Would this series work for me? Basically I don't want to be scared reading a book, but I'd like to see how the crime was solved. I'm hoping I'm making sense!

[@CorinneHSmith]

I understand and agree completely with your point of view. I don't like overly graphic scenes, either. I'd say that these books are low on the "gore" factor. On occasion, Gamache and his team are called to bigger and worse situations. But on the whole, they have to figure out what happened to one person, and whether or not the perpetrator will strike again. Try the first one, "Still Life," and see what you think. If it doesn't meet your standards, no worries. Life is too short to read books that you don't like, or that make you uncomfortable.

[@dianeprentiss9823]

There is no gore. Louise does not go down that road.

[@carlmelton2126]

Hi Connie. Just watched and enjoyed your video. Have you seen the trailer to THREE PINES coming to Amazon Prime in December. Any thoughts or comments of the trailer?

[@CorinneHSmith]

Good question, Carl. And my answer is NO, I am deliberately avoiding anything connected to the video version of the Armand Gamache books. I have had firm images of the characters in my head for quite some time now, and I am not willing to let anyone else's perspective overshadow my own. Besides, I manage an independent bookstore. "A" is a competitor I will not patronize. But hey, if you or anyone else feel differently, then watch away. I'm sticking to the books and to my own imagination. :-)

[@pia9343]

@@CorinneHSmith Interesting, I am currently watching the Amazon Prime series. Actually that is how I found the author. Long wait for the first audio book thru my library, but I will start with book number 1! As far as the cold and snow, familiar with it since I am Finnish.

[@CorinneHSmith]

Happy reading, Pia!

[@randalllaue4042]

Added to reading list...😊

[@CorinneHSmith]

Great! I don't think you'll be disappointed. Happy reading --

[@Luddy1661]

I love Louise Penny's books. So I tuned into this video. One problem with the video is the librarian is confusing the U.S. with America, and makes it sound like Canada is not part of America. I live in the U. S. which is only a small small part of America.

[@dianaf2077]

Go back to 2:00 into the video when Corinne holds up the green card with the #1 on it. Listen to what she says for the next 30 seconds or so and you will see she is not confusing the US with the continent of North America nor making it sound like Canada is not part of North America. In fact, she states that Quebec and Canada are part of North America. Perhaps what was confusing to you is the fact that ‘America’ is used colloquially, by just about everybody in the world, to mean the US. Back when I was a kid, the Communist Chinese government was always threatening to defeat American imperialists and running dog capitalists. I and everybody else knew they were talking about the US and not any of the other countries located in the Americas. Nobody, of my age at least, knew what the heck running dog capitalists were. A few years ago, Putin was telling the NYT that Americans were not exceptional. He was not referring to the other residents of North America, Canadians and Mexicans, he was insulting the US and nobody was confused as to who he meant. America and the US are terms that are essentially interchangeable, probably since the end of WWII.