How the Light Gets In

A Chief Inspector Gamache Novel, Book 9

By: Louise Penny

Narrated by: Ralph Cosham

Length: 15 hrs and 1 min

Publisher's summary

How the Light Gets In is the ninth Chief Inspector Gamache Novel from #1 New York Times bestselling author Louise Penny.

"There is a crack in everything. That's how the light gets in." —Leonard Cohen

Christmas is approaching, and in Québec it's a time of dazzling snowfalls, bright lights, and gatherings with friends in front of blazing hearths. But shadows are falling on the usually festive season for Chief Inspector Armand Gamache. Most of his best agents have left the Homicide Department, his old friend and lieutenant Jean-Guy Beauvoir hasn't spoken to him in months, and hostile forces are lining up against him. When Gamache receives a message from Myrna Landers that a longtime friend has failed to arrive for Christmas in the village of Three Pines, he welcomes the chance to get away from the city. Mystified by Myrna's reluctance to reveal her friend's name, Gamache soon discovers the missing woman was once one of the most famous people not just in North America, but in the world, and now goes unrecognized by virtually everyone except the mad, brilliant poet Ruth Zardo.

As events come to a head, Gamache is drawn ever deeper into the world of Three Pines. Increasingly, he is not only investigating the disappearance of Myrna's friend but also seeking a safe place for himself and his still-loyal colleagues. Is there peace to be found even in Three Pines, and at what cost to Gamache and the people he holds dear?

One of Publishers Weekly's Best Mystery/Thriller Books of 2013
One of The Washington Post's Top 10 Books of the Year
An NPR Best Book of 2013

©2013 Three Pines Creations, Inc. (P)2013 Macmillan Audio

Critic reviews

“Louise Penny's Three Pines mysteries are eminently satisfying due to their imaginative variety. The stories include scenes of Montreal sophistication and gritty crime contrasted with the idyllic setting of Three Pines. There's also literary appeal, quirky humor, and – let's not forget – murder.” —AudioFile Magazine, Earphones Award Winner

“Penny writes engagingly whether you're reading her books or listening to them. An argument for the latter is that her characters – not the least being Gamache, the gentle, brilliant, introspective and beleaguered head of the Surete division – are enriched beyond description through the distinctive voice of reader Ralph Cosham” —The Star-Ledger

"Narrator Ralph Cosham moves seamlessly from character to character, adding depth to each; his narration, coupled with a suspenseful writing style, make for edge-of-your-seat listening. Highly recommended for series devotees or fans of literary mysteries.” —Library Journal, starred review

Fan-freaking-tastic!

Would you consider the audio edition of How the Light Gets In to be better than the print version?

Yes. I think the narrator adds so much to the story (which is already a great story). When I go back to reading these books, the words seem a little paler in comparison to the performance.

Did the plot keep you on the edge of your seat? How?

Yes. I love the way Louise Penny has wrapped everything up in this one. As usual, she leaves clues all through the book and then everything comes together in the end, along with a few surprises.

Have you listened to any of Ralph Cosham’s other performances before? How does this one compare?

Yes. He's gotten better and better in the role of Gamache. He's a fantastic narrator. Great pace and phrasing and huzzah for the fantastic pronunciation.

Was there a moment in the book that particularly moved you?

The ending. Penny always has the best ones.

Any additional comments?

After I finished listening to this book, I went back and started listening to the series from the beginning. It is really a fantastic series, with wry dialog and interesting literary, musical, and artistic commentary. History is woven in, and the Quebecois point of view makes this a fascinating read from a cultural perspective. The series was obviously thought out in great detail before Ms. Penny began writing, because it all dovetails beautifully. I can't say enough good things about the series and the performance. Highly recommended.

Another Winner!

Would you listen to How the Light Gets In again? Why?

Yes, I have re-listened to several of this author's books.

Who was your favorite character and why?

Inspector Gamache without a doubt-he is a warm and humane person who deals with the depravity men and women can involve themselves in.

What about Ralph Cosham’s performance did you like?

I cannot imagine anyone else reading these books. He makes the people and settings of Three Pines come alive.

Was there a moment in the book that particularly moved you?

Inspector Gamache is presented with several heartwrenching decisions which he resolves with wisdom and caring.

Love this series!

The stories & wonderfully human characters continue to beautifully develop & interweave to form a rich life tapestry.

They just keep getting better

The most suspenseful book yet. The "main" story was interesting but the continuing plot of corruption and atrempt to destroy Gamache is wonderful. I love the Chief Inspector and how he cares so much for his friends, agents, his family, and especially Reine-Marie.

even better

this book really drew me in. I couldn't put this book down. great read enjoy

Another great one!

The legendary inspector and the cast of characters from storied Three Pines once again do not disappoint. Bravo, Ms. Penney. Keep them coming & coming. . .

One of the best of the best!

Would you consider the audio edition of How the Light Gets In to be better than the print version?

I haven't read any of the print versions of Louise Perry's mysteries. I love the narration of her books. Ralph Cosham is great. He really is the characters of Three Pines.

Which character – as performed by Ralph Cosham – was your favorite?

He is Three Pines! Usually my favorite character is Gamache but in this case my favorite character is Myrna.

Any additional comments?

I am not sure why I liked this book so much. It definitely was one of my favorites. It was a little more suspenseful than earlier books and I listened it in just two days...couldn't stop until I knew how it ended.

Never disappoints - every book a gem.

Would you consider the audio edition of How the Light Gets In to be better than the print version?

The narrator is excellent & an amazing actor - each character is clearly defined & voiced.

What did you like best about this story?

The twists & turns are dazzling, the sense of place is beautifully created. Being familiar with Quebec & Montreal, where the book is set, give me so much pleasure. The characters are lovingly & vividly drawn, enhancing a strong, clever plot. The use of historical references is originally done & well-researched.

Which scene was your favorite?

There are many - but when Gamache & his dog Henry are in the elevator with Beauvoir,
& Henry licks Beauvoir's hand is priceless.

If you were to make a film of this book, what would the tag line be?

Evil has no statute of limitations.

Beautiful writing, riveting story, splendid narration

Louise Penny poetically weaves mystery, the pain of living, political thriller, and gift of redemption all in one novel. Mr. Coshem’s narration is impeccable as always. Thank you both!

Love this series!

The characters are so real and wonderful. And Ralph Cosham is a perfect narrator. I am listening to Louise Penny’s books one after another. I must find out what happens to the core group of people even more than I want to see the mystery solved.