The Legacy: A Joanne Kilbourn Mystery

by Gail Bowen

From the Arthur Ellis Award–winning Grand Master of Crime Writers comes the next installment in the Joanne Kilbourn series


When Joanne Shreve’s former student, Val Masluk, writes the biography of acclaimed novelist Steven Brooks, Val once again becomes part of Joanne’s life. The biography is already raising troubling questions about Brooks’s past, and the wedding of Brooks’s daughter and Joanne’s son is scheduled for the day before the biography is published.


Both Joanne and her former student are haunted by memories of the seminar that led to the deaths of two people and the murder conviction of a third. The publication of the Brooks biography poses a threat not only to the future of the man and woman about to be married but also to the futures of those who love them. Joanne is certain that the threat is rooted in either her past or in that of Steven Brooks. The collateral damage caused by exposing that link will bring pain to both families, but life has taught Joanne that the only thing worse than knowing is not knowing.

Genres: Mystery, Canada, Audiobook

257 pages, Kindle Edition

First published October 24, 2023

About the author

Gail Dianne Bowen (née Bartholomew) is a Canadian playwright and writer of mystery novels. Born in Toronto, Ontario, Bowen was educated at the University of Toronto, the University of Waterloo and the University of Saskatchewan. She subsequently taught English in Saskatchewan, and is currently a professor of English at First Nations University of Canada. Bowen's mystery novels feature Joanne Kilbourn, a widowed mother, political analyst and university professor who finds herself occasionally involved in criminal investigations in various parts of Saskatchewan. Many have been adapted as Canadian television movies by Shaftesbury Films.

Series:
* Joanne Kilbourn Mystery

Awards:
Arthur Ellis Award
◊ Best Novel (1995): A Colder Kind of Death

Reviews

[Leslie · Rating 2 out of 5]

Not necessarily a bad book, but not for me. The "mystery" seemed negligible, and the book seemed mostly taken up by descriptions of the impossibly wonderful, thoughtful, intelligent narrator, her impossibly wonderful, thoughtful, intelligent husband, and their impossibly wonderful, thoughtful, intelligent circle of friends, almost all of whom had their own heartwarming story about how they had come into the group, mostly over the course (presumably) of the previous several books. Zzzzzzzz. Perfect people are so boring.

[Bhuku · Rating 3 out of 5]

'The Legacy' is somewhere between general fiction and a mystery - slow moving and veering off on character tangents unrelated to the central mystery, it didn't quite have the page-turning energy expected from a mystery, nor the artful way with language I expect from literary fiction. That said, the characters are likable and the writing and settings are pleasant in a comfortable, upper class American slice of life way.

Dialogue is not this slow-moving book's strength, unfortunately... a lot of it is stilted and some of it just flat-out expositional. Example: a long-time married couple saying something along the lines of "Bob, who has been my friend for 15 years," when they both are completely aware of who Bob is and what his relation is. I think dialogue is the main thing that held the writing back from being satisfying as a work of literary fiction.

Despite the book's shortcomings, Gail Bowen is a competent writer and I would read books by her again.

Thanks, NetGalley and ECW Press, for the gifted ARC in exchange for an honest review.

[Grace Koshida · Rating 3 out of 5]

As a long-time reader of the Joanne Kilbourn series, I do like seeing her adult children reaching key milestones. Joanne's youngest son Angus is getting married to Leah Drache but the outdoor late summer wedding celebration is tainted by the absence of Leah's father, reclusive author Steven Brooks. Joanne also reunites with former student Val Masluk who has recently penned Brooks' biography. When the biography's upcoming publication reveals troubling questions about Brooks' authorship of his most celebrated books, Joanne tries to shield Angus, Leah and her family from the toxic fallout.

Some negatives: The story was a slow-moving read. The links to a double-murder & the killer's machinations from prison might be confusing to readers who had not read the previous books. The violent ending was a bit jarring for me.

I received a digital ARC from Netgalley & ECW Press. All opinions are my own.

[Annarella · Rating 4 out of 5]

I think it's a well written and multilayered story but somehow it didn't work for me as I found it a bit to dark for my taste
As I assume it's matter of mood I recommend it because the plot is well done.
Recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher for this ARC, all opinions are mine

[Cindy Morris · Rating 1 out of 5]

actually couldn't finish this.

[Denis Wheller · Rating 4 out of 5]

Plagiarism is not a crime but it is a civil offence. The punishment is mainly loss of reputation; a legacy ruined. Can it ever be a reason to kill or be killed? When Joanne Kilbourn bumps into the writer Valentine Masluck, she is surprised to recognise him as Val Massey a former journalism student of hers whom she hasn’t seen for fourteen years. Val had been one of the students under the spell of the charismatic lecturer and sociopath Tom Kelsoe, now serving 22 years for the murder of a fellow student and another lecturer. Val had been deeply affected by these events but now has an established reputation and has just finished writing the biography of Stephen Brooks, a previously undistinguished novelist who, after a prolonged period of writer’s block, suddenly produced two major, seminal and prizewinning novels which has secured his name in the pantheon of the greats, and assured a permanent legacy. There are unsubstantiated suspicions that Brooks must have had help in writing these, or even that he had plagiarised them. But, if that were the case, why has the collaborator or plagiarised person never come forward? Brooks is famously a loner, isolating himself from everyone including his daughter, Leah, who had been taken in and brought up by her aunts. By coincidence Leah is about to marry her long-term boyfriend, Angus, who is Joanne’s son. As the wedding approaches and Joanne becomes more enmeshed in the mystery (if there is one) of Brooks’s success, there is increasing likelihood that the situation might resolve explosively.
This is the latest in the Joanne Kilbourn/Shreeve series and it does refer back to previous events and people, but potted histories fill in any useful, and quite a lot of incidental, information. The incidental type is a feature of the series, because Bowen has created a hugely complex group of family, friends, acquaintances and passing strangers, around Joanne and her second husband Zack Shreve (a helpful list of the dramatis personae is included, as usual). Many of the books are, therefore, more family dramas than actual mystery stories in the usual sense (I have reviewed previous books in the series and alluded to the similarity to Soap Operas in that there are lots of characters and dedicated fans). This book is more “family” than most. Readers of crime stories/murder mysteries (even cosy style) will find this fairly unexciting. It is, however, well written, as are all the others, and enjoyable as a read. I think 2.5 stars as a crime story and 4.5 as an exemplar of the series, which make 3.5 and rounds to 4
I would like to thank NetGalley, the publishers and the author for providing me with a draft proof copy for the purpose of this review.

[Paul Sutter]

It does not really matter that some of Gail Bowen’s mysteries in the Joanne Kilbourn mysteries, are not as intense as some of the other authors in the field. What sets her apart from the other authors, is the fact that Bowen can tell quite the story of people’s lives and their reactions to life events. That makes up for minor failings, which are few and far between.
Bowen writes the Kilbourn mysteries with such style, and the fact THE LEGACY is book twenty-two in the series, is impressive enough. Each time out, she offers another layer to Kilbourn, taking us into her world and the events that make the character one we cannot get enough of.
The book of course more in the life Joanne and her husband Zack Shreve. We have been party to their constant trials and tribulations, and there have been many moments where their lives almost seemed destined to be torn apart, by the actions of others. But through it all, they are still a couple, dealing with family and others.
We get an indication this is going to be more than a simplistic tale, because before the book officially begins, there is a four page guide to all the characters in the book, making one wonder if they might require a scorecard before the last page, to keep up with the wandering cast of characters.
The book revolves around the son of Joanne, Angus, who is about to take the plunge with Leah Drache. It is an exciting time in their lives, but there are some sour spots as well. Leah's father Stephen Brooks, a noted author, may not be in attendance. His writing career is now put in doubt because of the accusation that he has plagiarized some of his best selling titles. It is an accusation that can destroy the life of any author.
Joanne also comes in contact with a former student of hers, Val Masluk, who is proclaiming that Brooks does not write his own books. Scandal is on the horizon. Val has also written another book, this one about Tom Kelsoe, who was a fellow lecturer with Joanne many years ago. He was charged with a double murder, something that Joanne always felt great guilt over, the fact she didn’t see the signs and somehow stop him.
There is really a bit of everything in the book, including looking for new puppies to replace those who are gone, and by book’s end you are glad you had the cast of characters earlier in the book. But Gail Bowen brings it all together in a neat little package by book’s end, providing another stellar work in her literary arsenal.

[Susan · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Legacy is the latest instalment in the Joanne Kilbourn Mystery series. This time the Kilbourn Shreves are celebrating the upcoming nuptials of youngest son Angus to his childhood love Leah Drache, whose absentee father is the reclusive author Steven Brooks. However, the happy event is overshadowed by Steven Brook’s past and accusations that he plagiarized his best selling books. As well, Joanne reunites with a former student who she shares tragic and haunted memories with, who wrote the biography of Brooks and now his material may come into question. There are threats made to the upcoming publication and Joanne is determined to solve the mystery as well as ensure that Angus and Leah are shielded from the danger.

What I liked about this book:
-the ever evolving lives of the Kilbourn Shreve family along with their extended family and friends-I have read all the novels and feel like I personally know the characters and have grown up with them
-Joanne and Zack’s relationship
-the rich storytelling and pacing of the book
-living vicariously through the characters in the wealthy world of professionals of Regina and the Shreves cottage life at Lawyers Bay
-loved that it takes place in Canada and has relevant issues dealing with Canadian culture

What I didn’t like about the book:
-my only minor complaint was that at times the dialogue was a little artificial sounding

My rating: 4 out of 5

My final takeaway- I thoroughly enjoyed the latest novel in this series and even though it wasn’t my favourite, I look forward to future books so I can experience the lives of Joanne and her family.

Thanks to NetGalley and ECW Press for this eARC which will be published October 24, 2023.

[Alyce Gibson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Many thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for an eARC copy in return for my honest review.

I'm a huge fan of the Joanne Kilbourn Shreve books. I've read every one, all 22. Joanne, her family and friends are like old friends for me. I also live where most of the books are set and I imagine one day walking down the street, running into her. Yes, I know they're fiction but a girl can hope.

This latest book begins on a happy note with Joanne's son marrying his long time girlfriend. Preparations are under way, family and friends returning, all is right in the Shreve household. Before the wedding Joanne is approached by a former journalism student, Val Masluk. He's been chosen to write the biography of Steven Brooks, a well known Canadian author and the father of the bride. There's always been a few rumours swirling about the success of a couple of Steven's books, and interest is heating up again with more secrets coming out. Secrets that also lead back to a group of journalism students, including Val, the deaths of two people and the murder conviction of one. Outing these secrets will bring a lot of pain to Joanne's family and friends but will they also bring more tragedy?

It's an excellent book. Gail takes her time developing the story line, reminding us of connections between the characters. Because she handles it so well, it's not necessary to have read previous books, but this is such an excellent series all the books deserve a read.

[Vontel · Rating 4 out of 5]

I think I'm the first person to read my library's copy of this newly published mystery. Picked it up today and fortunately had no pressing business, so was able to indulge myself in reading the book for the past few hours. As with all of Bowen's Joanne Kilbourn/Shreve novels/mysteries, I get pulled in to the plot & action from the beginning, and just want to keep reading. Someone who encounters this book as the first one they've read of the series will do just fine & enjoy it, but miss some of the deeper context that has developed over time.

This is a long-running series that I've read from the beginning, so the characters of Joanne and her children, and for the past few years her new husband, invite us in to their world. There have been changes in her social circumstances, but they are all still 'down-home' sensible and sensitive mostly prairie people, although with more advantages than were evident before. Her first husband was very active in politics & power in Saskatchewan, and she was very much part of that action. However, he died, leaving her to raise their three children and create a new life. I lived in Saskatchewan for a number of years, about the time frame she referenced as the first books in the series started, so I get further appreciation of her settings and references.

[Helen · Rating 3 out of 5]

I thought I would be dealing with a bequest or something like it. Not only wasn't that what it was about but it was about the most unlikely spot to start reading Gail Bowen's books. It felt as if she was rounding up her characters' lives just in case she wasn't able to write anything more. Everyone is there along with their children, in-laws and pets. We get back stories and everything brought up to the present and then we start to talk about Steven Brooks and his wonderful novels along with the arrangements for a family wedding.
This is unapologeticly Canadian, set in Bowen's Saskatchewan during the end of August/beginning of Sept. The Blue Bombers play the Rough Riders on Labour Day and people with summer cabins are thinking about closing up for the season. Aside from the comfortable circumstances of the characters it all felt very natural and familiar and I thoroughly enjoyed the little adventure of choosing the right puppy.
MS Bowen is a good writer and handled the complexities of writing while recovering from serious illness beautifully. I'm going to have to read backwards through her series.

[Barbara Schultz · Rating 4 out of 5]

Book Title: The Legacy
Series: A Joanne Kilburn Mystery
Author:: Gail Bowen
Narrator: Marcia Johnson
Publisher: ECW Press Audio
Genre: Fiction with a bit of Mystery r
Pub Date: November 10, 2023
My Rating: 4. Stars
Pages: 264

I was drawn to this story when I read the protagonist was a sixty-two mother of four and grandmother of 5. I immediately did a fist bump!
I did notice that it stated it was part of a series but no number was listed. Later discovered that this was #23!! I was sure I would be lost. But thought I would give it a try. I was immediately drawn into Joanne’s world.
True it was a bit slow but I was doing catch-up so it was fine.
One reader described it as a ‘relaxing read”- I agree!
I did love these characters!

Want to thank NetGalley and ECW Press Audio this enjoyable audiobook.
Publishing Release Date scheduled for November 10, 2023

[Karyn Good · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Legacy by Gail Bowen is a mix of reflection and complex family dynamics. On the cusp of Joanne’s youngest son’s marriage, fans are treated to a look into what’s happening in Joanne and Zack’s personal life. One of the best things about the Joanne Kilbourn series is Bowen’s ability to make Joanne a mature, three-dimensional woman with an active life full of all the activities usually associated with much younger protagonists. The Shreve family’s day to day is intertwined with a slow burn of a mystery involving their future daughter-in-law’s father. What follows is a complex web of past and present happenings that end in a page turning resolution.

[PeggySue · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Legacy by Gail Bowen
Narrator, Marcia Johnson
Joanne Kilbourn book 22
I am a longtime fan of this series but the last two books have not been favorites of mine. Part of this may be that I don’t like this new narrator so much. Also with this book I felt there was some dialogue that was mainly info dumping. It seemed too much like the author was trying to clue in new readers to things that had happened in the past but putting this info into dialogue was a bit clumsy. The story was still interesting and the wedding was very touching and I still love all the friends and family but the book seemed to be missing something.
Thanks to NetGalley

[Linda Cook · Rating 3 out of 5]

Who knew such sturm and drang existed in Saskatchewan ! And especially in one extended family. No sitting around sipping cocoa in your slippers for these folk! Murder and mayhem shows at every corner. But I do like reading about Joanne’s children growing up and all the grandchildren. The premise of this one is based on an author who may or may not have plagiarized his best selling books but we also have a sociopath in jail directing some outside events all tied together. Not a bad yarn and I’ll definitely read the next one.

[Allison · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am a long time fan of Gail Bowen and the Joanne Kilbourn series and this latest installment didn't disappoint !
A complicated and interesting plot and the premise of plagiarism was a fascinating one.
Bowen does a beautiful job of developing the characters in this book and the writing has real depth and understanding of human nature. I enjoy reading as time passes for Joanne and her family and we get to see her children grow and go through major life events. It is always interesting how she weaves the story around the family and their friends.
Great read !

[Carol · Rating 3 out of 5]

I’ve read many of the earlier books in this series and then stopped…not sure why. I picked this one up, and am sorry to say I didn’t enjoy it as much as the early ones in the series. Maybe if I’d read them all, I wouldn’t have felt like a lot of the book was introducing new readers to the characters and previous story lines, but I felt that it was very slow-moving, the mystery. It all that compelling, and descriptions that were just extraneous. I did read in the epilogue that the author has been very ill, and I hope she’s now on the mend.

[Donna · Rating 2 out of 5]

There is much to enjoy in Gail Bowen’s books. The elegant quips, the descriptions of luxuriant life, the flashes of insight regarding a man with Down’s syndrome which ends the book. So Jane Austen. And yet murder must happen since that is the genre. Bowen ‘a murders are happening late in the book so she can drive the Austen and downplay the killing. Ultimately her main character is complacent and a sidekick to her superhero paraplegic husband. Perhaps this is what happens when you get bored of your main.

[Dorothy Young · Rating 5 out of 5]

I thoroughly enjoyed getting caught up with Joanne Shreve and her family, friends, and former students. Gail sets scenes with lots of descriptive words and I feel like I am right there with her characters watching what’s happening like a fly on the wall. I gave ‘The Very Hungry Caterpillar’ to my daughter when she was very young. It was one of her favourite books. Now my grandsons love it too and the other caterpillar books based on it (First Winter, First Summer, etc.).
Gail has had a year filled with ups and downs, but she can still write a very compelling book! I highly recommend it ❤️📚

[Brenda · Rating 5 out of 5]

It ahs been so many years since I read a Joanne Kilbourn novel that I was a bit overwhelmed at all of the changes from book 6 or 8 to book 22. That's the only reason I sent it back to the library unfinished - so I can go back and catch up to fully grasp the characters. They are lovely characters and I look forward to spending the Christmas holidays catching up on past e books. Thankfully my library has most of the series and I have picked up a few in my TBR pile over the years.

[Carol · Rating 5 out of 5]

A relaxing story, well written with a good plot and believable characters. I was surprised with the ending and that made for great read. I highly recommend The Legacy as well as the complete series. Although it could be read as a standalone, having read from the beginning increases the enjoyment immensely.

[Louise Gray · Rating 4 out of 5]

A fascinating mixture of mystery and family drama makes for a compelling plot line. The interplay between characters adds great depth and I really enjoyed the clarity of descriptions which the author brings to set the scene. I wish I had read the first book before this one, though, as I feel I would have benefited from the history to some of the relationships.

[KayG · Rating 4 out of 5]

Interesting and thoughtful book - a mystery with its roots in the literary world. I appreciated the efforts to see people with disabilities in an understanding way. Most of the characters were lovely, and I enjoyed getting to know them and their pups. Then into all the charming elements come a dark and twisted story. This was an excellent audiobook.

[Marci Williams · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love this series by Gail Bowen and would love to be a part of their family!! This in my 3rd ARC by her and I read all of the books in this series after my 1st one and I am so glad that I did! I can't wait for the next one in the series to come out so I hope she writes fast!! I appreciate how self-aware and caring her entire family is.

#TheLegacy
#NetGalley

[Grace R · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you to NetGalley and ECW Press for this ARC. The Legacy is a great addition to the Joanne Kilbourn series. It’s great reading about Joanne’s growing family and relationships, love and loss, and as always a murder to solve! Fantastic!

[Susan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Definitely one of Bowen’s best, her latest Joanne Kilbourn mystery has all the elements that make these books enjoyable: focus on her ever-growing family and circle of friends, various literary references adding depth to events, and a solid, interesting plot. Now, I wish I hadn’t read it so quickly.

[Penny · Rating 3 out of 5]

Pleasantly surprised - this entry into the very long Joann Kilbourn series was better than the last several before. "Heavy duty love seshes" are still cringe worthy, but the plot was interesting and Joann did some actual sleuthing, so that was a plus. 3.5 stars

[Sandy Terry · Rating 5 out of 5]

Favorite author

I was a little disappointed with the beginning of this book but it turned out to be very very good.

[Patricia]

I always enjoy reading about Joanne and her family and friends. Much deeper than most mysteries. She spends time developing her characters and their relationships with her and each other.

[Margaret Pillay · Rating 3 out of 5]

A nice and easy read.