What do you think?
Rate this book
Flavia de Luce #12
Numb Were the Beadsman's Fingers: A Flavia de Luce Novel
Not yet published
Expected 3 Nov 26A nun’s corpse leads beloved amateur sleuth Flavia de Luce to uncover decades-old secrets in this charming novel in the New York Times bestselling series.
“I love the Flavia de Luce novels! Flavia is the best female detective I’ve ever read, full of realism, self-confidence, and emotion (in roughly equal parts), and her tales are hilarious, engaging, and occasionally heartbreaking.”—Diana Gabaldon
In the cloisters of Golgotha House, a mere binocular’s-squint away from Buckshaw, a nun lies dead. When her fellow Sisters prepare her corpse for burial, they discover that their companion has been living a shocking lie for years. The truth about her past, and the dark reasons she harbored for escaping it, are impossible to fathom.
Charged with cracking this mystery is the firm of Arthur Dogger & Associates (Discreet investigations)—consisting, of course, of the inimitable young Flavia de Luce herself and her faithful partner-in-detection Dogger.
Working under the eye of a glowering Mother Superior, Flavia and Dogger must uncover a decades-old crime and a secret that lies an ocean away—along with a trail of deception that lies closer to home.
“I love the Flavia de Luce novels! Flavia is the best female detective I’ve ever read, full of realism, self-confidence, and emotion (in roughly equal parts), and her tales are hilarious, engaging, and occasionally heartbreaking.”—Diana Gabaldon
In the cloisters of Golgotha House, a mere binocular’s-squint away from Buckshaw, a nun lies dead. When her fellow Sisters prepare her corpse for burial, they discover that their companion has been living a shocking lie for years. The truth about her past, and the dark reasons she harbored for escaping it, are impossible to fathom.
Charged with cracking this mystery is the firm of Arthur Dogger & Associates (Discreet investigations)—consisting, of course, of the inimitable young Flavia de Luce herself and her faithful partner-in-detection Dogger.
Working under the eye of a glowering Mother Superior, Flavia and Dogger must uncover a decades-old crime and a secret that lies an ocean away—along with a trail of deception that lies closer to home.
256 pages, Kindle Edition
Expected publication November 3, 2026
About the author
Alan Bradley
44 books8,673 followersLibrarian Note: There is more than one author in the Goodreads database with this name.
With an education in electronic engineering, Alan worked at numerous radio and television stations in Ontario, and at Ryerson Polytechnical Institute (now Ryerson University) in Toronto, before becoming Director of Television Engineering in the media centre at the University of Saskatchewan in Saskatoon, where he remained for 25 years before taking early retirement to write in 1994.
He became the first President of the Saskatoon Writers, and a founding member of the Saskatchewan Writers Guild. His children's stories were published in The Canadian Children's Annual, and his short story, Meet Miss Mullen, was the first recipient of the Saskatchewan Writers Guild Award for Children's Literature.
For a number of years, he regularly taught Script Writing and Television Production courses at the University of Saskatchewan (Extension Division) at both beginner and advanced levels.
His fiction has been published in literary journals and he has given many public readings in schools and galleries. His short stories have been broadcast by CBC Radio.
He was a founding member of The Casebook of Saskatoon, a society devoted to the study of Sherlock Holmes and Sherlockian writings. Here, he met the late Dr. William A.S. Sarjeant, with whom he collaborated on their classic book, Ms Holmes of Baker Street. This work put forth the startling theory that the Great Detective was a woman, and was greeted upon publication with what has been described as "a firestorm of controversy".
The release of Ms. Holmes resulted in national media coverage, with the authors embarking upon an extensive series of interviews, radio and television appearances, and a public debate at Toronto's Harbourfront. His lifestyle and humorous pieces have appeared in The Globe and Mail and The National Post.
His book The Shoebox Bible (McClelland and Stewart, 2006) has been compared with Tuesdays With Morrie and Mr. God, This is Anna.
In July of 2007 he won the Debut Dagger Award of the (British) Crimewriter's Association for his novel The Sweetness at the Bottom of the Pie, the first of a series featuring eleven year old Flavia de Luce, which has since won the 2009 Agatha Award for Best First Novel,the 2010 Dilys Award,the Spotted Owl Award, and the 2010 Arthur Ellis Award for Best First Novel.
The Sweetness at the Bottom of the Pie has also been nominated for the Macavity, the Barry, and the Arthur Awards.
Alan Bradley lives in Malta with his wife Shirley and two calculating cats.
With an education in electronic engineering, Alan worked at numerous radio and television stations in Ontario, and at Ryerson Polytechnical Institute (now Ryerson University) in Toronto, before becoming Director of Television Engineering in the media centre at the University of Saskatchewan in Saskatoon, where he remained for 25 years before taking early retirement to write in 1994.
He became the first President of the Saskatoon Writers, and a founding member of the Saskatchewan Writers Guild. His children's stories were published in The Canadian Children's Annual, and his short story, Meet Miss Mullen, was the first recipient of the Saskatchewan Writers Guild Award for Children's Literature.
For a number of years, he regularly taught Script Writing and Television Production courses at the University of Saskatchewan (Extension Division) at both beginner and advanced levels.
His fiction has been published in literary journals and he has given many public readings in schools and galleries. His short stories have been broadcast by CBC Radio.
He was a founding member of The Casebook of Saskatoon, a society devoted to the study of Sherlock Holmes and Sherlockian writings. Here, he met the late Dr. William A.S. Sarjeant, with whom he collaborated on their classic book, Ms Holmes of Baker Street. This work put forth the startling theory that the Great Detective was a woman, and was greeted upon publication with what has been described as "a firestorm of controversy".
The release of Ms. Holmes resulted in national media coverage, with the authors embarking upon an extensive series of interviews, radio and television appearances, and a public debate at Toronto's Harbourfront. His lifestyle and humorous pieces have appeared in The Globe and Mail and The National Post.
His book The Shoebox Bible (McClelland and Stewart, 2006) has been compared with Tuesdays With Morrie and Mr. God, This is Anna.
In July of 2007 he won the Debut Dagger Award of the (British) Crimewriter's Association for his novel The Sweetness at the Bottom of the Pie, the first of a series featuring eleven year old Flavia de Luce, which has since won the 2009 Agatha Award for Best First Novel,the 2010 Dilys Award,the Spotted Owl Award, and the 2010 Arthur Ellis Award for Best First Novel.
The Sweetness at the Bottom of the Pie has also been nominated for the Macavity, the Barry, and the Arthur Awards.
Alan Bradley lives in Malta with his wife Shirley and two calculating cats.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews
Read
June 10, 2026Knowing now that the author Alan Bradley died only a few weeks ago, finishing the read of this (final) Flavia book hit a little differently. And the whole tone of the book somehow feels fitting. It's a change from the last few books, which have dealt with secret societies and massive conspiracies. This one is a return to a somewhat more traditional sleuthing story, although there aren't that many twists and turns. Flavia does some research, and she interviews a couple of people. Other than that, she spends a lot of time being fairly introspective and philosophical.
It's a short read compared to some of the other books in the series. I enjoyed the book, though it took me by surprise with its slower and gentler pace of storytelling. Perhaps this is a reflection of where the author was at in his life's journey.
Thanks to Bantam via Netgalley for this advance review copy.
It's a short read compared to some of the other books in the series. I enjoyed the book, though it took me by surprise with its slower and gentler pace of storytelling. Perhaps this is a reflection of where the author was at in his life's journey.
Thanks to Bantam via Netgalley for this advance review copy.
June 17, 2026
“I gave a little chortle to show that I wasn't a complete muffin. I ought to mention that I'm teaching myself to chortle because, in my opinion, a proper chortle is one of the cornerstones of civilization. A good chortle is indispensable. One must always guard against a tendency to go too far with either a tight, starched smile, or throwing oneself howling on the floor, flopping and floundering like a fish in the bottom of a boat. Laughing properly is a serious matter."
Finishing this book was such a bittersweet experience. It was just as satisfying and engaging as the entire series has been throughout the years, but knowing that this is Alan Bradley's last book and the Flavia series has come to an end leaves me sorrowful. Once again I loved the precocious Flavia and all the supporting characters who make this series such an inviting and cozy reading experience. This is one of the few book series that has ever made me laugh out loud and cry.
Alan Bradley really created something special with this series and he leaves a beautiful legacy of books that will be treasured by many for years to come. The author’s note of this book is not to be missed. I read it multiple times and just wanted to give the author a big hug. Mr. Bradley passed away in late May so he won't get to see the reception for this final book, but I'm confident it will be just as successful as the previous books in this incredible series. This is a reading experience I highly recommend. The first book is The Sweetness at the Bottom of the Pie.
Thank you, Bantam Books for the opportunity to read this wonderful book ahead of publication!
Finishing this book was such a bittersweet experience. It was just as satisfying and engaging as the entire series has been throughout the years, but knowing that this is Alan Bradley's last book and the Flavia series has come to an end leaves me sorrowful. Once again I loved the precocious Flavia and all the supporting characters who make this series such an inviting and cozy reading experience. This is one of the few book series that has ever made me laugh out loud and cry.
Alan Bradley really created something special with this series and he leaves a beautiful legacy of books that will be treasured by many for years to come. The author’s note of this book is not to be missed. I read it multiple times and just wanted to give the author a big hug. Mr. Bradley passed away in late May so he won't get to see the reception for this final book, but I'm confident it will be just as successful as the previous books in this incredible series. This is a reading experience I highly recommend. The first book is The Sweetness at the Bottom of the Pie.
Thank you, Bantam Books for the opportunity to read this wonderful book ahead of publication!
May 27, 2026
Sister Garance lives in a cloistered nun community; she’s dead; and she’s a man. No spoilers here - these facts are all presented on the first page for the readers. And our partner in parsing out this mystery is Flavia de Luce, precocious pre-teen living in 1950’s rural England.
I love Flavia. Her wit, sharpness, and energy make the mystery and its unfolding a pleasure to read. If you’re interested in the Yukon and its gold rush, this is the definitely the book for you. I’ve loved each of the prior books in this series in no small part due to the author’s rendering of Flavia and the supporting characters including her sisters, the gardener (both her partner in detecting and friend), and the vicar and his wife.
The author Alan Bradley passed away last week (5/19/26), which places in context the farewell letter he writes to the reader at the end of the book. I’ll miss Flavia and this world - but we’re fortunate to have 12 books in this series to keep the world alive for new readers.
Thank you Bantam Books for providing this book for review consideration via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
I love Flavia. Her wit, sharpness, and energy make the mystery and its unfolding a pleasure to read. If you’re interested in the Yukon and its gold rush, this is the definitely the book for you. I’ve loved each of the prior books in this series in no small part due to the author’s rendering of Flavia and the supporting characters including her sisters, the gardener (both her partner in detecting and friend), and the vicar and his wife.
The author Alan Bradley passed away last week (5/19/26), which places in context the farewell letter he writes to the reader at the end of the book. I’ll miss Flavia and this world - but we’re fortunate to have 12 books in this series to keep the world alive for new readers.
Thank you Bantam Books for providing this book for review consideration via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
Want to Read
May 22, 2026I am heartbroken to hear of Mr. Bradley's passing on May 18, 2026.
Read
May 24, 2026Flavia de Luce is one of my favorite fictional detectives. The young sleuth along with her partner in detecting, Dogger, are assigned the task of discovering a decades old crime. Not as much sibling sniping as in previous books, but as Flavia grows into womanhood, she learns to restrain herself (and her tongue) with wit and discovery. Alan Bradley's books and characters are always very engaging.
June 4, 2026
3.5. This was an enjoyable enough read, but I have no idea what Alan Bradley is doing with the series at this point.
Instead of a murder mystery, Flavia and Dogger have been contracted by a priory to determine the identity of a recently deceased nun who turned out to be a man who is believed to be connected to the 1897 Klondike gold rush. The investigation that results is insular and meditative, mostly taking the form of reading books from the de Luce library and a couple interviews. Flavia interacts with hardly anyone aside from Dogger, when so much of the previous books was made up of her conversations with — and judgmental thoughts about — the villagers and people encountered during their sleuthing. The Nide are not mentioned once, though Undine makes the occasional unremarkable appearance, and at this point I have to believe Bradley does not intend to explicate that particular subplot that had been so prominent earlier in the series. The book ends with a cryptic author’s note that could either be interpreted as an end to the series or plans to continue.
I will always enjoy being inside Flavia’s head and the mysteries she solves, but it’s incredibly disappointing that the Nide subplot that Bradley spent so many years and books building up is apparently being quietly dropped.
Instead of a murder mystery, Flavia and Dogger have been contracted by a priory to determine the identity of a recently deceased nun who turned out to be a man who is believed to be connected to the 1897 Klondike gold rush. The investigation that results is insular and meditative, mostly taking the form of reading books from the de Luce library and a couple interviews. Flavia interacts with hardly anyone aside from Dogger, when so much of the previous books was made up of her conversations with — and judgmental thoughts about — the villagers and people encountered during their sleuthing. The Nide are not mentioned once, though Undine makes the occasional unremarkable appearance, and at this point I have to believe Bradley does not intend to explicate that particular subplot that had been so prominent earlier in the series. The book ends with a cryptic author’s note that could either be interpreted as an end to the series or plans to continue.
I will always enjoy being inside Flavia’s head and the mysteries she solves, but it’s incredibly disappointing that the Nide subplot that Bradley spent so many years and books building up is apparently being quietly dropped.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you Net Galley for the free ARC. I love Flavia De Luce and I have read everyone of the twelve books. As expected, this one did not disappoint. I love the chemistry side trips, learning more about Dogger, the fights among the sisters and, of course, the mystery to solve. Flavia is right up there with Sherlock, Ruth, Gamache and Enola.
August 1, 2026
I'm not entirely sure how I feel about this book. The series has been going on for so long and there are lots of threads, so I wasn't entirely confident about where I was in the big plot. The mystery itself was kind of interesting but I felt like it fizzled out. It seemed like a book written by an author who was losing steam (which, respectfully, might have been the case given that he just passed away). I still loved the FMC and the droll observations about humanity, as well as the literary and scientific references. If you've stuck with these books for this long, definitely read "Numb Were the Beadsman's Fingers" but know this isn't like the first few books in this incredible series. I received a copy from the publisher in exchange for my honest review; the book comes out Fall 2026!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Although the narrator seems less and less a clever and precocious little girl than I recall her being in The Sweetness at the Bottom of the Pie, the wit, irreverence and humor of this engaging character are in full form in this 12th book of the Flavia De Luce series.
For those unfamiliar, this endearing science-loving detective lives in her family’s large and ramshackle estate in post-war England and her friends are the gardener and cook. Her antagonists include two older sisters (one an avid reader and the other a pianist) with whom she enjoys the usual sibling rivalry and, under duress, absolute loyalty. She has her own chemistry lab and roams the countryside on her beloved bike in search of clues to solve the many murders and calamities that we mystery readers know English villages have in abundance.
This story involves a cloister of nuns who have taken a vow of silence and a parallel story about the gold rush and some nefarious acts that might or might not have taken place earlier in Klondike and Yukon.
I have missed 3 books in this series over the last few years - an unfortunate consequence of not visiting my brick and mortar library which carries the full collection. Somehow the little break made me appreciate Alan Bradley’s humor and his heroine even more and now I’ll backtrack to those stories I’ve missed.
In a note at the end of this one, the author wishes his readers farewell. I don’t know if this means this book is the final one in the series. If so, my 5 star rating is for the series as a whole. Some heroines (Maisie Dobbs and Precious Ramotswe are other examples) just become part of our lives and Flavia is one such heroine. If this is her swan song, then I’m a bit sad, and if not I look forward to her next chapter!
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
For those unfamiliar, this endearing science-loving detective lives in her family’s large and ramshackle estate in post-war England and her friends are the gardener and cook. Her antagonists include two older sisters (one an avid reader and the other a pianist) with whom she enjoys the usual sibling rivalry and, under duress, absolute loyalty. She has her own chemistry lab and roams the countryside on her beloved bike in search of clues to solve the many murders and calamities that we mystery readers know English villages have in abundance.
This story involves a cloister of nuns who have taken a vow of silence and a parallel story about the gold rush and some nefarious acts that might or might not have taken place earlier in Klondike and Yukon.
I have missed 3 books in this series over the last few years - an unfortunate consequence of not visiting my brick and mortar library which carries the full collection. Somehow the little break made me appreciate Alan Bradley’s humor and his heroine even more and now I’ll backtrack to those stories I’ve missed.
In a note at the end of this one, the author wishes his readers farewell. I don’t know if this means this book is the final one in the series. If so, my 5 star rating is for the series as a whole. Some heroines (Maisie Dobbs and Precious Ramotswe are other examples) just become part of our lives and Flavia is one such heroine. If this is her swan song, then I’m a bit sad, and if not I look forward to her next chapter!
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Arthur Dogger & Associates (Discreet investigations) are tasked, via the Vicar’s wife, with solving a mystery surrounding a dead nun belonging to an order who have taken a vow of silence. The Flavia who takes center stage in this book is growing up, she’s more introspective, I love the interaction between she and the veteran Dogger as she carefully lets him unfold his thoughts, knowledge and wisdom that are key in solving the case, she recognizes what the effects of having been a soldier and POW have on him. As always the book is full of observations on human nature and gentle humor. Flavia’s love of science shines through, family members irritate her but are loved just the same, the Vicar and his wife have a place in the story, and there’s always Gladys, the trusty bike that carries her through the English countryside to follow clues.
Since author Alan Bradley passed away earlier this year this last lines of a series I’ve loved since The Sweetness At The Bottom of the Pie seem rather fitting, if you haven’t read the previous 11 books please do! I’m normally more of an English police procedural reader, enjoying strong female detectives as main characters. These are gentler but one can only imagine a grown up Flavia becoming a forensic detective.
Thanks to Net Galley and Bantam Books/Penguin Random House for an ARC. Coincidentally the island library bookstore (with both new and used books) I volunteer at just received a donation of the first 6 books while I was working my most recent shift, I was so happy to see them and thrilled that a patron I suggested them to bought them all that same afternoon, then I came home to find an email with an offer to read this latest book in my inbox. Truly a case of the stars aligning!
Since author Alan Bradley passed away earlier this year this last lines of a series I’ve loved since The Sweetness At The Bottom of the Pie seem rather fitting, if you haven’t read the previous 11 books please do! I’m normally more of an English police procedural reader, enjoying strong female detectives as main characters. These are gentler but one can only imagine a grown up Flavia becoming a forensic detective.
Thanks to Net Galley and Bantam Books/Penguin Random House for an ARC. Coincidentally the island library bookstore (with both new and used books) I volunteer at just received a donation of the first 6 books while I was working my most recent shift, I was so happy to see them and thrilled that a patron I suggested them to bought them all that same afternoon, then I came home to find an email with an offer to read this latest book in my inbox. Truly a case of the stars aligning!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I am a fan of the Flavia de Luce mysteries by Alan Bradley and have been eagerly awaiting this newest, and final, book in the series. The story jumped right in with a new mystery surrounding a nun of the nearby convent, who isn’t who people thought she was. Flavia and her trusted partner, Dogger, are asked to help solve the mystery. I learned that Alan Bradley had passed away recently shortly before I started reading, and made the story all the more poignant for me.
I loved being back with Flavia and all the characters I have come to love; Dogger, Mrs. Mullet, Daffy, Feely, Dieter, Cynthia and the vicar, and course the mischievous, cousin Undine. Flavia’s plucky personality and passion for chemistry, mysteries, and taking care of those she loves really came through in this book. I would say that felt like it overshadowed the mystery some, though not necessarily in a bad way. I did enjoy her musings on chemistry, and learning of the silent nuns and the history of the gold rush in the Yukon.
The letter from the author at the end was very touching, I appreciate his sharing Flavia with us over the twelve books in the series. I recommend this book for those who love the Flavia de Luce series. For fellow cozy mystery lovers, if you have not yet given Flavia a try, I encourage you to pick up the first book as they are unique and wonderful.
I would like to say a sincere thank you to the publisher Ballantine | Bantam, author Alan Bradley, and NetGalley for the gifted digital ARC provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.
I loved being back with Flavia and all the characters I have come to love; Dogger, Mrs. Mullet, Daffy, Feely, Dieter, Cynthia and the vicar, and course the mischievous, cousin Undine. Flavia’s plucky personality and passion for chemistry, mysteries, and taking care of those she loves really came through in this book. I would say that felt like it overshadowed the mystery some, though not necessarily in a bad way. I did enjoy her musings on chemistry, and learning of the silent nuns and the history of the gold rush in the Yukon.
The letter from the author at the end was very touching, I appreciate his sharing Flavia with us over the twelve books in the series. I recommend this book for those who love the Flavia de Luce series. For fellow cozy mystery lovers, if you have not yet given Flavia a try, I encourage you to pick up the first book as they are unique and wonderful.
I would like to say a sincere thank you to the publisher Ballantine | Bantam, author Alan Bradley, and NetGalley for the gifted digital ARC provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
It's hard to believe this is the final Flavia de Luce mystery. I've loved this series from the beginning and couldn't wait to spend one more adventure with Flavia, Dogger, and the rest of the Buckshaw crew.
This time, Flavia and Dogger are pulled into the mystery of a nun from the nearby convent who isn't who everyone believed she was. As always, the mystery is clever, but for me, this book was more about spending time with these characters I've grown to love over the years. Flavia's curiosity, love of chemistry, and fierce loyalty to the people she cares about are still as charming as ever. I also enjoyed the bits of history woven throughout the story.
Knowing that Alan Bradley passed away before I started this book made every page a little more bittersweet. His letter at the end was especially touching and felt like the perfect goodbye to both Flavia and her readers.
If you've been on this journey with Flavia, this is a beautiful farewell. And if you've somehow never picked up this series, do yourself a favor and start with book one. It's one of the most unique and delightful cozy mystery series I've ever read.
And remember... life is crazy. Go enjoy some fiction.
#NetGalley #NumbWeretheBeadsmansFingers
Thank you to Ballantine and Bantam and NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
This time, Flavia and Dogger are pulled into the mystery of a nun from the nearby convent who isn't who everyone believed she was. As always, the mystery is clever, but for me, this book was more about spending time with these characters I've grown to love over the years. Flavia's curiosity, love of chemistry, and fierce loyalty to the people she cares about are still as charming as ever. I also enjoyed the bits of history woven throughout the story.
Knowing that Alan Bradley passed away before I started this book made every page a little more bittersweet. His letter at the end was especially touching and felt like the perfect goodbye to both Flavia and her readers.
If you've been on this journey with Flavia, this is a beautiful farewell. And if you've somehow never picked up this series, do yourself a favor and start with book one. It's one of the most unique and delightful cozy mystery series I've ever read.
And remember... life is crazy. Go enjoy some fiction.
#NetGalley #NumbWeretheBeadsmansFingers
Thank you to Ballantine and Bantam and NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Numb Were the Beadsman Fingers is another charming entry in Alan Bradley’s long running Flavia de Luce series — full of the wit, eccentricity, and gleeful curiosity that have made these books such a delight over the years. Flavia remains her wonderfully precocious self, poking into mysteries with equal parts scientific enthusiasm and mischievous humor. At times the tone edges toward the over the top, but that’s part of the series’ signature charm, and fans will feel right at home.
This installment offers the familiar pleasures of Bradley’s storytelling: quirky characters, clever turns, and Flavia’s singular voice guiding the way. While the plot didn’t come together for me as strongly as some of the earlier books, I still found it entertaining and unmistakably Bradley — a reminder of how unique his blend of humor and mystery truly is.
Knowing this novel will be released posthumously adds a bittersweet note. Bradley’s unexpected passing makes this story feel like a final gift to readers who have followed Flavia’s adventures for so long.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All comments and opinions are my own.
I received complimentary copy of this book. All comments and opinions are my own.
This installment offers the familiar pleasures of Bradley’s storytelling: quirky characters, clever turns, and Flavia’s singular voice guiding the way. While the plot didn’t come together for me as strongly as some of the earlier books, I still found it entertaining and unmistakably Bradley — a reminder of how unique his blend of humor and mystery truly is.
Knowing this novel will be released posthumously adds a bittersweet note. Bradley’s unexpected passing makes this story feel like a final gift to readers who have followed Flavia’s adventures for so long.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All comments and opinions are my own.
I received complimentary copy of this book. All comments and opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I received this ARC from NetGalley and Bantam Books. Thank you for the privilege. These opinions are my own.
This was a much slower and introspective installment in the Flavia De Luce series. Perhaps it was the slowing down of the author’s life that it inspired it. Did he know that the end of his time on this mortal coil was approaching? The author’s note seemed to be a foreshadowing. And yet the story feels unfinished with regard to the next chapter in Flavia’s life…that of adulthood. I was thinking I’d like to start over and read through this series again. Now that I’ve learned Mr. Bradley has passed away I think it a fitting tribute. Would I have given this book 5 stars had he not died before publication? Perhaps not because it was so much less enthralling than all of Flavia’s former adventures. It’s slower and quieter. Many times throughout the story she reflects inwardly that she wishes these quiet moments of companionship with Dogger would last forever. Your fans wish this as well Flavia. Rest in peace Mr. Bradley.
This was a much slower and introspective installment in the Flavia De Luce series. Perhaps it was the slowing down of the author’s life that it inspired it. Did he know that the end of his time on this mortal coil was approaching? The author’s note seemed to be a foreshadowing. And yet the story feels unfinished with regard to the next chapter in Flavia’s life…that of adulthood. I was thinking I’d like to start over and read through this series again. Now that I’ve learned Mr. Bradley has passed away I think it a fitting tribute. Would I have given this book 5 stars had he not died before publication? Perhaps not because it was so much less enthralling than all of Flavia’s former adventures. It’s slower and quieter. Many times throughout the story she reflects inwardly that she wishes these quiet moments of companionship with Dogger would last forever. Your fans wish this as well Flavia. Rest in peace Mr. Bradley.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Review of Advance Reader’s Copy
Flavia de Luce is talking with the vicar’s wife, Cynthia. They are discussing the strange circumstances surrounding the death of one of the Sisters of Clemency and their astounding, unexpected discovery. Mother Superior had come to the vicar for help in uncovering the mystery surrounding Sister Garanace’s death.
What is the problem and what will Flavia discover?
=========
Twelfth in the author’s Flavia de Luce series, this is a delightful continuation of the earlier stories. All the expected characters are in place and Flavia investigates as only Flavia can. As might be expected, Dogger plays a significant role in the investigation.
Readers who have enjoyed the series, those who enjoy following a young sleuth investigate, those who enjoy charm, with, and humor along with their mysteries are likely to find much to appreciate here.
Highly recommended.
I received a free copy of this eBook from Ballantine / Bantam and NetGalley and am voluntarily leaving this review.
#NumbWeretheBeadsmansFingers #NetGalley
Flavia de Luce is talking with the vicar’s wife, Cynthia. They are discussing the strange circumstances surrounding the death of one of the Sisters of Clemency and their astounding, unexpected discovery. Mother Superior had come to the vicar for help in uncovering the mystery surrounding Sister Garanace’s death.
What is the problem and what will Flavia discover?
=========
Twelfth in the author’s Flavia de Luce series, this is a delightful continuation of the earlier stories. All the expected characters are in place and Flavia investigates as only Flavia can. As might be expected, Dogger plays a significant role in the investigation.
Readers who have enjoyed the series, those who enjoy following a young sleuth investigate, those who enjoy charm, with, and humor along with their mysteries are likely to find much to appreciate here.
Highly recommended.
I received a free copy of this eBook from Ballantine / Bantam and NetGalley and am voluntarily leaving this review.
#NumbWeretheBeadsmansFingers #NetGalley
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I received this ARC from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review and am required now by Goodreads/Amazon in the interest of capitalism to officially disclose this in a way that sucks all the joy from my heart. That being said...
This Flavia seemed much shorter than previous installments, and I had difficulty connecting to Flavia's current sense of herself in the world at first, especially regarding the events of the previous book.
I did get into the book, but I could tell that there wouldn't be much of a mystery when I saw how far along I was getting, and Flavia's family issues with Feely were confusing. It felt like everything happened all at once at the end, I didn't get the depth I've gotten with other books, and we got no realized potential in Undine.
It's also sad that this will be the last one and that Alan Bradley died, and that I read this the same week my father died. I will always love Flavia and enjoy her books though.
This Flavia seemed much shorter than previous installments, and I had difficulty connecting to Flavia's current sense of herself in the world at first, especially regarding the events of the previous book.
I did get into the book, but I could tell that there wouldn't be much of a mystery when I saw how far along I was getting, and Flavia's family issues with Feely were confusing. It felt like everything happened all at once at the end, I didn't get the depth I've gotten with other books, and we got no realized potential in Undine.
It's also sad that this will be the last one and that Alan Bradley died, and that I read this the same week my father died. I will always love Flavia and enjoy her books though.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Numb Were the Beadsman's Fingers: A Flavia de Luce Novel
by Alan Bradley
Terrible repercussions of gold madness, serious addiction, from Midas to now.
A cracking good mystery to be solved by Flavia and Dogger, investigations going all the way back to the Yukon Gold Rush, with missing persons and suspected murders and a major surprise or two along the way. The real treasure is the witty writing and clever descriptions — a pure pleasure. Also, Flavia discovers she has a good heart, no surprise to any of the readers of this lovely series.
Personal note: My sister and I traveled to Alaska some years back, saw a replica display of the required ton of supplies — unbelievable burden — and heard of the poor horses’ deaths. A tour guide recited my dad’s favorite “The Cremation of Sam McGee. (Dad had been there in WWII, building roads and airstrips).
by Alan Bradley
Terrible repercussions of gold madness, serious addiction, from Midas to now.
A cracking good mystery to be solved by Flavia and Dogger, investigations going all the way back to the Yukon Gold Rush, with missing persons and suspected murders and a major surprise or two along the way. The real treasure is the witty writing and clever descriptions — a pure pleasure. Also, Flavia discovers she has a good heart, no surprise to any of the readers of this lovely series.
Personal note: My sister and I traveled to Alaska some years back, saw a replica display of the required ton of supplies — unbelievable burden — and heard of the poor horses’ deaths. A tour guide recited my dad’s favorite “The Cremation of Sam McGee. (Dad had been there in WWII, building roads and airstrips).
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Long one of my favorite series, I was heartbroken to hear of Alan Bradley’s passing.
This book was distinct from the rest of the series in that Flavia seems to have grown out of her endearing and hilarious childhood antics (at least to the extent they were in the past). Also, the story felt slower and more straightforward with less twists and turns than I have expected from Bradley in the past.
When Flavia is summoned to a the nearby cloisters, she is asked to solve a mystery of a recently deceased nun with a mystery. Along with this mystery, Flavia continues to figure out how to continue the Buckshaw legacy and her relationships with her sisters.
A wonderful read, but I felt Flavia seemed to have lost the charming precociousness and wit we saw in earlier books. Thank you for a final, wonderful read Mr. Bradley.
Thank you to #NetGalley #Bantam and #Ballentine for an ARC
This book was distinct from the rest of the series in that Flavia seems to have grown out of her endearing and hilarious childhood antics (at least to the extent they were in the past). Also, the story felt slower and more straightforward with less twists and turns than I have expected from Bradley in the past.
When Flavia is summoned to a the nearby cloisters, she is asked to solve a mystery of a recently deceased nun with a mystery. Along with this mystery, Flavia continues to figure out how to continue the Buckshaw legacy and her relationships with her sisters.
A wonderful read, but I felt Flavia seemed to have lost the charming precociousness and wit we saw in earlier books. Thank you for a final, wonderful read Mr. Bradley.
Thank you to #NetGalley #Bantam and #Ballentine for an ARC
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Flavia de Luce and Dogger are asked to look into the death of Sister Garanace who died at the cloistered nunnery. The death is indeed strange as it turns out the Sister is a man, Flavia is growing up and a bit more restrained in this final entry. I am assuming it is the final since the author recently passed away. But, back to the story. In the background of the tale, Flavia's sister returns from her honeymoon and may indeed be penniless. Her husband turns to Flavia for help. Flavia and Dogger look to the past and to the Yukon to solve this death. Is it a true murder of something else? As always, the language and writing are superb and Flavia is so "beyond her years" as she tells the tale.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I was given a copy of this book by Netgalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
Flavia is back at it. She and Dogger are asked to look into the death of a local member of a silent group of Catholic sisters who has been hiding a secret. This leads back to events in the Alaskan gold rush and a twisty path to the finish.
I love Flavia and Dogger. We get a little more of a glimpse into Dogger's history, which I always appreciate. These books are like a weird amalgamation of Agatha Christie, Marie Curie, and Nancy Drew, which I enjoy.
Flavia is back at it. She and Dogger are asked to look into the death of a local member of a silent group of Catholic sisters who has been hiding a secret. This leads back to events in the Alaskan gold rush and a twisty path to the finish.
I love Flavia and Dogger. We get a little more of a glimpse into Dogger's history, which I always appreciate. These books are like a weird amalgamation of Agatha Christie, Marie Curie, and Nancy Drew, which I enjoy.
July 31, 2026
I received this pre release copy of this book from Net galley in exchange for a fair review.
I did not realize until I had finished this book that this was the last of the Flavia de Luce series. How sad to not learn how this extraordinary character would develop.
This book was shorter than previous books and seemed to end abruptly leaving me to wonder what just happened here. The mystery was a nun who was not what she seemed. Flavia and Dogger followed the threads and came to a conclusion that perhaps was lost on me but seemed to satisfy the Reverend Mother.
I did not realize until I had finished this book that this was the last of the Flavia de Luce series. How sad to not learn how this extraordinary character would develop.
This book was shorter than previous books and seemed to end abruptly leaving me to wonder what just happened here. The mystery was a nun who was not what she seemed. Flavia and Dogger followed the threads and came to a conclusion that perhaps was lost on me but seemed to satisfy the Reverend Mother.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Nothing better than a Flavia mystery. She is written with such a beautiful wit and thoughtfulness. Here, our mystery is a historic one and the relationship with herself is central. Other then Dogger, limited other family and friends this time. But Flavia internal monologue is always perfection, making you think. Lovely as always.
Full disclosure - I received a copy of the book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review
Full disclosure - I received a copy of the book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for providing an ARC for review.
It breaks my heart that this is probably the last Flavia de Luce novel, as the author passed last month. I've been following her amateur sleuthing for a decade. This outing wasn't my favorite - it felt short, with a lot of convenient discoveries - but as always, I love the relationship between Flavia, Dogger, and her family.
It breaks my heart that this is probably the last Flavia de Luce novel, as the author passed last month. I've been following her amateur sleuthing for a decade. This outing wasn't my favorite - it felt short, with a lot of convenient discoveries - but as always, I love the relationship between Flavia, Dogger, and her family.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I have adored Flavia de Luce for years, since the very first book. This series has become a comfort read for me. But this latest (and last?) installment was a little disappointing. It felt significantly shorter than the previous books in the series; so much so that I didn't have time to get properly into it before it was over. The mystery itself was interesting enough, but overall the book lacked conflict.
Read
July 12, 2026I've been a Flavia de Luce fan since the series' 2009 debut. This latest installment focuses more on Flavia and man-of-all-work Dogger's collaboration as "discreet" investigators, but still delivers plenty of conflict with older siblings and a pesky young cousin.
About her newlywed sister: "She couldn't stand not being the center of attention for any longer than the belch of a bumblebee." (I read an advance reader copy and hope this sentence does not get touched! ) The author, channeling the indomitable Flavia, has a cracking good time with language. This book was lots of fun to read.
Thanks to NetGalley + Ballantine | Bantam for the ARC. Available 11/3/26.
About her newlywed sister: "She couldn't stand not being the center of attention for any longer than the belch of a bumblebee." (I read an advance reader copy and hope this sentence does not get touched! ) The author, channeling the indomitable Flavia, has a cracking good time with language. This book was lots of fun to read.
Thanks to NetGalley + Ballantine | Bantam for the ARC. Available 11/3/26.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Numb Were the Beadsman's Fingers by Alan Bradley is the latest in the Flavia de Luce books and as she grows older her relationships with her sisters and Dogger take on new strains. When a nuns corpse turns out to be hiding a secret, Flavia and Dogger are hired to find out why the nun has kept this secret all those years. With the usual sisterly problems also getting in the way of their investigations, the case becomes a second to those. As usual, this is a well written and entertaining book.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I love Flavia de Luce and Dogger. Their agency has a new case. One that requires great discretion. A cloistered nun has died. Her body, when prepared for burial, has revealed some secrets. The nuns need to know more.. can Flavia and Dogger untangle this twisted tale? I think this is one of the better entries in the series. We spend a lot of time with Flavia and Dogger and learn more of Dogger’s history. The family is present but not the main event. Enjoy.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I have so very much enjoyed the Flavia de Luce series. Flavia is such a memorable character, and it was lovely to accompany Dogger and her as they worked to unravel one last mystery. I was very sorry to hear of Alan Bradley's passing earlier this year and will miss his writing.
Thank you to Ballantine | Bantam and NetGalley for the advance reader's digital copy. #NumbWeretheBeadsmansFingers #NetGalley
Thank you to Ballantine | Bantam and NetGalley for the advance reader's digital copy. #NumbWeretheBeadsmansFingers #NetGalley
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Another fun addition to the series following Flavia as she researches nuns in the Yukon. I have to say I was a little taken aback at the farewell letter at the end of the book. But there's so much more that can happen with these characters! Then I read of the author's passing. It has been a great ride following these characters around, and while I think Flavia would have been extra spicy in a 13th book, I am grateful for the time we had together.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Oh my darling Flavia! I will miss your charming wit, your fantastic adventures, your fabulous cast of assorted characters and most of all, the amazing mind of author, Alan Bradley. I was enchanted by this final adventure. I have read and re-read every single book in the series and watched Flavia grow and flourish. What an honor it was to enjoy this book. She and the author will be sorely missed.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews