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The Grantchester Mysteries #5
Sidney Chambers and The Dangers of Temptation
Archdeacon Sidney Chambers is beginning to think that the life of a full-time priest (and part-time detective) is not easy. So when a bewitching divorcee in a mink coat interrupts Sidney's family lunch asking him to help locate her missing son, he hopes it will be an open and shut case.
The last thing he expects is to be dragged into the mysterious workings of a sinister cult, or to find himself tangled up in another murder investigation. But, as always, the village of Grantchester is not as peaceful as it seems…
From the theft of an heirloom to an ominous case of blackmail, Sidney is once again rushed off his feet in this eagerly anticipated fifth instalment in The Grantchester Mysteries series.
The last thing he expects is to be dragged into the mysterious workings of a sinister cult, or to find himself tangled up in another murder investigation. But, as always, the village of Grantchester is not as peaceful as it seems…
From the theft of an heirloom to an ominous case of blackmail, Sidney is once again rushed off his feet in this eagerly anticipated fifth instalment in The Grantchester Mysteries series.
336 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 7, 2016
256 people are currently reading
1999 people want to read
About the author
James Runcie
41 books590 followersJames Runcie is a British novelist, documentary film-maker, television producer, theatre director, and Artistic Director of the Bath Literature Festival.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 203 reviews
June 27, 2016
By this time, most readers of the Sidney Chambers series know what they are going to get: six mysteries involving Sidney and his friends and family in Grantchester. But I think some of the magic may be fading away. Only one of these tales could be classified as a murder mystery, and the others barely qualify as mysteries at all. Instead, a different member of our cast of characters is involved in some life changes involving some slightly mysterious circumstances, but it becomes almost immediately apparent who is behind their troubles and what happened. These are still enjoyable stories and I haven't given up on the series, but I would like to see Runcie return to more classic mystery plots.
June 6, 2016
My review of Sidney Chambers and the Dangers of Temptation is now up on Fresh Fiction!
"A very nice collection of stories for Grantchester fans (and new converts)"
Read the whole review here!
"A very nice collection of stories for Grantchester fans (and new converts)"
Read the whole review here!
May 2, 2016
Archbishop Sidney Chambers explores the dangers of temptation — his own and others — in this wonderful book of six interrelated novellas. And while each provides an interesting mystery, the book exudes a gentle thoughtfulness and an plea for the importance of an examined life as the only one worth living.
In Sidney Chambers and the Dangers of Temptation, the fifth book to feature the thoughtful Chambers, the curious clergyman investigates a shady secular cult, a missing priceless necklace, a husband’s terrible secret, a long-lost husband, a traffic “accident” in Eastern Germany, and a self-righteous blackmailer. While I enjoyed the mysteries, what really makes this novel five stars is Chambers’ consideration of human nature and God’s love. (Oddly, despite the author being the son of an archbishop, James Runcie’s writing never veers into the preachy.) Archbishop Chambers preaches the kind of loving religion that stands in sharp contrast with the intolerant messages too often found — both then and now.
Fans of the imperfect but benevolent Chambers and his coterie of loyal friends will, of course, adore this book; however, newcomers to the series will have no problem starting with Sidney Chambers and the Dangers of Temptation. In fact, I highly recommend the novel to fans of Dorothy L. Sayers, Julian Barnes, Georges Simenon, or so-called thinking-man’s detective stories.
In the interest of full disclosure, I received this book from NetGalley and Bloomsbury USA in exchange for an honest review.
In Sidney Chambers and the Dangers of Temptation, the fifth book to feature the thoughtful Chambers, the curious clergyman investigates a shady secular cult, a missing priceless necklace, a husband’s terrible secret, a long-lost husband, a traffic “accident” in Eastern Germany, and a self-righteous blackmailer. While I enjoyed the mysteries, what really makes this novel five stars is Chambers’ consideration of human nature and God’s love. (Oddly, despite the author being the son of an archbishop, James Runcie’s writing never veers into the preachy.) Archbishop Chambers preaches the kind of loving religion that stands in sharp contrast with the intolerant messages too often found — both then and now.
Fans of the imperfect but benevolent Chambers and his coterie of loyal friends will, of course, adore this book; however, newcomers to the series will have no problem starting with Sidney Chambers and the Dangers of Temptation. In fact, I highly recommend the novel to fans of Dorothy L. Sayers, Julian Barnes, Georges Simenon, or so-called thinking-man’s detective stories.
In the interest of full disclosure, I received this book from NetGalley and Bloomsbury USA in exchange for an honest review.
May 9, 2016
I had never heard of Sidney Chambers or the Grantchester TV series when I requested the book; I just thought it sounded good. Then I started watching the TV show and was pretty excited to discover that the book I had was one of the novels on which the series was based. Unfortunately, I think I like the TV show quite a bit more than the book. For one thing, the book is not actually a novel, but a collection of short stories or novellas--not a problem if you like that, but it's not a format I enjoy and I would not have requested the book had I known (although it does work well for TV). Another reason I didn't like the book as well as the show is that I didn't much like Sidney, at least in the first story or two. He did improve somewhat later on, but not enough to make me like the stories. It seems like the TV show does a better job of character development than the book, at least for Sidney, Geordie, and Amanda.
One word of warning if you have not read the previous books and are watching the TV series: the events in this book take place a good bit later than those on TV, so there are lots of spoilers.
Note: Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for providing me an ARC of this book.
One word of warning if you have not read the previous books and are watching the TV series: the events in this book take place a good bit later than those on TV, so there are lots of spoilers.
Note: Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for providing me an ARC of this book.
May 2, 2016
James Runcie created something great when he started the Grantchester series. I love the characters of Sidney Chambers, Amanda, Leonard, Geordie, Hildegarde and many others. A serious yet still light-hearted and humorous look at village life through the eyes of a religious leader who doubles as an investigator. He somehow gets himself tangled up with murders, thefts, and other mysterious goings on.
In this volume (#5) we have six stories that involve Sidney and his entourage. They are spread around and living in different areas but still make it a point to see each other, especially when there is drama involved. Included in the six is a trip to Germany, some personal problems for Leonard as well as Amanda, and a hippie commune.
Recommend for fans of the series, both in book form & the TV show. Start at the beginning though if you haven't read the others. I truly love both parts of this series (tv & books).
**Many thanks to NetGalley and Bloomsbury for an advance reading copy**
In this volume (#5) we have six stories that involve Sidney and his entourage. They are spread around and living in different areas but still make it a point to see each other, especially when there is drama involved. Included in the six is a trip to Germany, some personal problems for Leonard as well as Amanda, and a hippie commune.
Recommend for fans of the series, both in book form & the TV show. Start at the beginning though if you haven't read the others. I truly love both parts of this series (tv & books).
**Many thanks to NetGalley and Bloomsbury for an advance reading copy**
September 9, 2016
Having just binged on the other books in this series, as well as diving into the 2nd Season of the adapted television show, I was in desperate need of more Sidney in my life. But who wants to wait even a day, much less two months, to read more? Thankfully, I was lucky enough to receive an ARC of this book from Bloomsbury and NetGalley.
I enjoyed this one a lot, especially the pop culture references. My only complaint and sadness is that the final story of the collection felt wrong. Somehow all the characters became more dramatic and exaggerated. It felt as though the author wanted to make a specific statement, so had to use his characters in a very deliberate manner than caused me to feel thrown for a loop. It all suddenly became very tense, as well as leaving the book on a very odd note.
There were also two big events that were left completely open ended, without any resolution. This is unusual, as by the end every little story arc often comes together. But despite all that, I loved this collection, am thrilled to have had the chance to read it so early, and will cross my fingers for more.
I enjoyed this one a lot, especially the pop culture references. My only complaint and sadness is that the final story of the collection felt wrong. Somehow all the characters became more dramatic and exaggerated. It felt as though the author wanted to make a specific statement, so had to use his characters in a very deliberate manner than caused me to feel thrown for a loop. It all suddenly became very tense, as well as leaving the book on a very odd note.
There were also two big events that were left completely open ended, without any resolution. This is unusual, as by the end every little story arc often comes together. But despite all that, I loved this collection, am thrilled to have had the chance to read it so early, and will cross my fingers for more.
March 1, 2018
Book Sidney and TV Sidney parted company a long time ago. It's too bad really because Book Sidney is much more complex character. He isn't fornicating on the stairs. He's middle aged, a husband, a father. He still struggles to balance his family, church, and his need to solve a mystery. Hildegarde is a Saint. A times, may I dare say he is even just a bit curmudgeonly. He may be an Archdeacon now but at heart he is still the young rebel vicar. He still likes his whisky and a pint with Geordie. (BTW Book Geordie is also much better than TV Geordie) Sidney still loves jazz but now listens to Pink Floyd as well. I love his heart, his compassion, his vow to make his church a better place. Oh and dear, sweet Leonard, you deserve happiness.
April 5, 2016
I only know Sidney Chambers from the Grantchester tv series, where a very young vicar resists flirty women and solves crime in a 1950s English village. I have not read the first four books in this series, and I'm not sure this is where I should have started. I also didn't realize that this was more of a collection of short stories, which means that there are a handful of small mysteries but no over arching storyline. Plus Sidney is married, with children, and has moved away from Grantchester.
Still love the character and the setting, but my imagining of Sidney grates against the idea of 1960s England (as he is 45 at this point.) I bet these would be great in audio.
I received a copy of this from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Still love the character and the setting, but my imagining of Sidney grates against the idea of 1960s England (as he is 45 at this point.) I bet these would be great in audio.
I received a copy of this from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
August 25, 2016
I'm a huge fan of the Masterpiece series Grantchester, so I jumped at the chance to read a Sidney Chambers novel.
This read like a series of interconnecting short stories. It kept the story line moving quickly and was very entertaining. I like seeing how Sidney's mind puts pieces of the puzzle together as he works to solve certain crimes. Not everything comes to a peaceful conclusion for him, both in his professional and personal life. This is what I like most about him. I see myself continuing to read the books along with watching the series. Good stuff!
Thanks to Bloomsbury USA, via Netgalley, for allowing me to read this in exchange for an unbiased review.
This read like a series of interconnecting short stories. It kept the story line moving quickly and was very entertaining. I like seeing how Sidney's mind puts pieces of the puzzle together as he works to solve certain crimes. Not everything comes to a peaceful conclusion for him, both in his professional and personal life. This is what I like most about him. I see myself continuing to read the books along with watching the series. Good stuff!
Thanks to Bloomsbury USA, via Netgalley, for allowing me to read this in exchange for an unbiased review.
November 8, 2017
Plot summary:
Another set of linked short stories.
The Dangers of Temptation - Sidney investigates when a parishioner’s son is implicated in the murder of the leader of a mystical hippie cult which is not what it seems.
Grantchester Meadows - Sidney is called in to find a missing necklace following a Cambridge student celebration in which one student is trampled by a herd of cows.
The Trouble with Amanda - Amanda’s husband Henry Richmond comes under suspicion when his ex-wife is found bound, gagged and drowned. Henry’s deceits are the final straw for Amanda, who leaves him. Sidney saves Henry and rescues Amanda from her personal crisis, in which she questions the value and meaning of her life.
The Return - Ronnie Maguire, the long-lost husband of Sidney’s former housekeeper, returns home unexpectedly. Mrs Maguire, Geordie Keating and Sidney are all suspicious of his true motives and Sidney chums up to him to find out.
A German Summer - the Chambers family holidays in Eastern Germany with Hildegard’s mother and old family friends, one of whom (Gunter) still carries a torch for Hildegard. When Gunter is killed in a motor bike accident, Sidney investigates and uncovers what he thinks is a conspiracy to murder him, involving illicit passion and revenge. Sidney’s persistent inquiries get him into trouble with the authorities.
Love and Duty - Sidney’s former curate Leonard is blackmailed over his homosexuality and his partner Simon is subjected to an arson attack. Sidney tracks down the offender.
Overall:
This is a pleasant, diverse and quite interesting set of stories. Much of the interest lies in the misadventures of Sidney’s friends and associates. Sidney solves the mysteries as much through intuition and psychology as through investigative skill. It’s 1969 and the stories are full of topical issues eg the moon landing; recently-legalised homosexuality; the revolution in rock music (Roger Waters of Pink Floyd fame makes a couple of appearances and is described as a friend of Sidney’s. Roger tells Sidney that he was the inspiration for one of their finest songs).
Plotting:
The stories are simple and the results are often obvious. Large parts of the stories are taken up with religious or philosophical debates and deliberations. None of the stories are gripping - I thought the one set in Germany was the most interesting because of the contrast between British values and communist ones.
Characterisation:
By now we have strong portraits of the principal characters. Sidney is more introspective than ever. Amanda is more interesting because of her self-questioning.
Dialogue:
Conventional.
Setting and Description:
Good descriptive skills as usual.
Readability:
Very easy to read - just flows along.
Sub-plots:
Integral to the stories eg Sidney and Hildegard’s relationship; homosexuality in the late 1960s.
Read another by same author?
Yes - to finish the series.
www.davidkilner.com
Another set of linked short stories.
The Dangers of Temptation - Sidney investigates when a parishioner’s son is implicated in the murder of the leader of a mystical hippie cult which is not what it seems.
Grantchester Meadows - Sidney is called in to find a missing necklace following a Cambridge student celebration in which one student is trampled by a herd of cows.
The Trouble with Amanda - Amanda’s husband Henry Richmond comes under suspicion when his ex-wife is found bound, gagged and drowned. Henry’s deceits are the final straw for Amanda, who leaves him. Sidney saves Henry and rescues Amanda from her personal crisis, in which she questions the value and meaning of her life.
The Return - Ronnie Maguire, the long-lost husband of Sidney’s former housekeeper, returns home unexpectedly. Mrs Maguire, Geordie Keating and Sidney are all suspicious of his true motives and Sidney chums up to him to find out.
A German Summer - the Chambers family holidays in Eastern Germany with Hildegard’s mother and old family friends, one of whom (Gunter) still carries a torch for Hildegard. When Gunter is killed in a motor bike accident, Sidney investigates and uncovers what he thinks is a conspiracy to murder him, involving illicit passion and revenge. Sidney’s persistent inquiries get him into trouble with the authorities.
Love and Duty - Sidney’s former curate Leonard is blackmailed over his homosexuality and his partner Simon is subjected to an arson attack. Sidney tracks down the offender.
Overall:
This is a pleasant, diverse and quite interesting set of stories. Much of the interest lies in the misadventures of Sidney’s friends and associates. Sidney solves the mysteries as much through intuition and psychology as through investigative skill. It’s 1969 and the stories are full of topical issues eg the moon landing; recently-legalised homosexuality; the revolution in rock music (Roger Waters of Pink Floyd fame makes a couple of appearances and is described as a friend of Sidney’s. Roger tells Sidney that he was the inspiration for one of their finest songs).
Plotting:
The stories are simple and the results are often obvious. Large parts of the stories are taken up with religious or philosophical debates and deliberations. None of the stories are gripping - I thought the one set in Germany was the most interesting because of the contrast between British values and communist ones.
Characterisation:
By now we have strong portraits of the principal characters. Sidney is more introspective than ever. Amanda is more interesting because of her self-questioning.
Dialogue:
Conventional.
Setting and Description:
Good descriptive skills as usual.
Readability:
Very easy to read - just flows along.
Sub-plots:
Integral to the stories eg Sidney and Hildegard’s relationship; homosexuality in the late 1960s.
Read another by same author?
Yes - to finish the series.
www.davidkilner.com
May 26, 2016
I received an e-ARC copy of this novel through NetGalley and Bloomsbury USA.
Readers of this book will probably easily fall into two basic categories: those who have seen the television series and those who have not. I belong in the "have not" group but was intrigued when the description of the novel mentioned the television program. This book five in the series contains six individual mysteries linked by the carry-over characters with the stories falling chronologically. All six stories focus on various types of temptation, both secular and theological, hence the book title. These stories take the reader from the late 1960s and just barely into 1970 and explore how people were responding to such varied happenings as living in a commune, reacting to the problems in Biafra, the scheduled moon landing and a Cricket mega-star caught in the issues of black versus white in South Africa, homosexuality, and a trip to communist East Germany. (Those topics are not necessarily in the order in which their story is presented in the book, just from my memory.) Each story has some type of crime or personal dilemma to be resolved by Sidney.
I can easily see how each of these stories might be an episode for a television series, however, that doesn't mean I necessarily enjoyed the written version of each one. The author makes no allowances for anyone beginning the stories at this point. You just have to grab on and hope all will be explained eventually. Characters are brought into the story with no background at all - IF you haven't watched any of the series or read any of the previous books. Sidney is now the Archdeacon of Ely which I think is a recent promotion from Grantchester but it makes no difference because he's there and in London all the time anyway. He certainly does seem to have lots of time to fritter away. Anyway, the stories are interesting, the concept is interesting but how does one rate a book that is simply interesting? I've settled on 3 stars because I'm glad I read it, but Sidney needs to really, truly figure out how he feels about his ex-girlfriend and then leave her alone or be honest with his wife. There is a lot of theological discussion throughout this book in all six of the stories. I can't help but wonder if it is featured so prominently in the television episodes.
Readers of this book will probably easily fall into two basic categories: those who have seen the television series and those who have not. I belong in the "have not" group but was intrigued when the description of the novel mentioned the television program. This book five in the series contains six individual mysteries linked by the carry-over characters with the stories falling chronologically. All six stories focus on various types of temptation, both secular and theological, hence the book title. These stories take the reader from the late 1960s and just barely into 1970 and explore how people were responding to such varied happenings as living in a commune, reacting to the problems in Biafra, the scheduled moon landing and a Cricket mega-star caught in the issues of black versus white in South Africa, homosexuality, and a trip to communist East Germany. (Those topics are not necessarily in the order in which their story is presented in the book, just from my memory.) Each story has some type of crime or personal dilemma to be resolved by Sidney.
I can easily see how each of these stories might be an episode for a television series, however, that doesn't mean I necessarily enjoyed the written version of each one. The author makes no allowances for anyone beginning the stories at this point. You just have to grab on and hope all will be explained eventually. Characters are brought into the story with no background at all - IF you haven't watched any of the series or read any of the previous books. Sidney is now the Archdeacon of Ely which I think is a recent promotion from Grantchester but it makes no difference because he's there and in London all the time anyway. He certainly does seem to have lots of time to fritter away. Anyway, the stories are interesting, the concept is interesting but how does one rate a book that is simply interesting? I've settled on 3 stars because I'm glad I read it, but Sidney needs to really, truly figure out how he feels about his ex-girlfriend and then leave her alone or be honest with his wife. There is a lot of theological discussion throughout this book in all six of the stories. I can't help but wonder if it is featured so prominently in the television episodes.
March 15, 2016
Sidney Chambers and The Dangers of Temptation by James RuncieMy rating: 3 of 5 stars
I watched the PBS TV series, Grantchester, and enjoyed it so when this book became available I took a chance. For once I liked the TV show much better than the book. This book seemed like a series of short stories strung together. I thought the author would tie the separate stories together at the end but that didn't happen.
There was a story of a stolen necklace, the break-up of a friend's marriage, a trip to his wife's family in Eastern Germany and a missing man's reappearance after decades. It also follows his new job in Ely as Archdeacon and his different friendships.
It was an OK story but I do not prefer a book of short stories. It wasn't bad just not a book that really appealed to me.
Thank you to Net Galley for giving me a chance to review it.
View all my reviews
April 21, 2016
Sidney Chambers and The Dangers of Temptation by James Runcie is my first experience with Sidney Chambers in book form. Having seen and enjoyed the Grantchester Mysteries on PBS, I was prompted to read this book. That said, the television show did not prepare me for the complexity and nuances of this excellent novel. The book is comprised of six separate stories which are deftly intertwined by common threads such as secrets kept and love denied. The book is populated with multi dimensional characters, each embodied with both strengths and weaknesses that added complexity not only to the characters but to the ongoing storylines. I appreciated that Sidney is a good man but certainly not a perfect one. I also really liked and respected Leonard.
The book also includes a "guest appearance" by Pink Floyd's Roger Waters in two of the stories. Waters is interviewed as a witness in one story. I would love to know the backstory of how he came to be included in a novel.
I highly recommend this book, especially for those who appreciate British mysteries from the Golden Age, perhaps by Dorothy Sayers or Agatha Christie. After reading this, I immediately purchased the first book of the series, which emphasizes how much I enjoyed it.
I was given a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. I was not required to write an honest review and the opinions expressed are my own.
The book also includes a "guest appearance" by Pink Floyd's Roger Waters in two of the stories. Waters is interviewed as a witness in one story. I would love to know the backstory of how he came to be included in a novel.
I highly recommend this book, especially for those who appreciate British mysteries from the Golden Age, perhaps by Dorothy Sayers or Agatha Christie. After reading this, I immediately purchased the first book of the series, which emphasizes how much I enjoyed it.
I was given a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. I was not required to write an honest review and the opinions expressed are my own.
March 2, 2019
To my mind, one of the best of the series so far. It is now the 60s and Sidney has, to deal with a commune, come to terms with acid rock and cross the iron curtain to visit Hildegard's homeland. Social churn manifests in other ways as well, as Amanda ends her marriage, the boycott of apartheid South Africa begins, and Leonard has to choose between coming out and the priesthood. Mysteries are solved, but the through lines of change and continuity, and how Sidney deals with it all are the real highlights for me.
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April 28, 2025I didn’t hate it. I just didn’t love it a lot. 🙈
The first 3 stories (of 6) had me ready to pitch the book across the room. The first was the worst of the lot, and I was especially ready to shake Sidney. Our mostly lovable now-archdeacon lets feminine attention from a woman in his parish go to his head. So many friends and family members cautioned him about overstepping his bounds with several women and he just brushed them off. Excuse me, sir, you’re a married man and a vicar called to be above reproach. Consider listening to these people, mmkay? No, he doesn’t actually upon anything and in the end realised his wrong attitude towards the situation, but ugh. Not your biggest fan at the moment, my dude. Also, I hate how often people hint that Amanda and Sidney were made for each other. They’re both married—Sidney happily so. Just stop it. I’m Team Hildegard for life.
Stories 4 & 5 were a welcome reprieve that kept me from pitching the volume all together. Namely because we got some really sweet and tender moments between Sidney and Hildegard (whom I adore) and even little Anna.
The finale story was focused on homosexuality and the priesthood. From a historic standpoint, I get what the story was supposed to do. However, from a biblical standpoint, I don’t agree with the conclusions drawn that it’s acceptable and compatible with Christianity. Sidney’s views were presented as the compassionate and progressive outlook. But scripture is clear regardless of era.
Something Runcie does with such mastery is weaving in rich historical details. Things we read about in the history books get penned into being as present realities, like the South Africas apartheid, the Apollo 11 moon landing, and a cameo mention of rising start Ian McKellan (yes, Gandalf himself).
In my opinion, book 3 was the peak of the series! I’ll finish the series since there only one more instalment, and I really hope we can end on a higher note.
Content: mild language and 1 use of both s-word and Jesus’ name irreverently
The first 3 stories (of 6) had me ready to pitch the book across the room. The first was the worst of the lot, and I was especially ready to shake Sidney. Our mostly lovable now-archdeacon lets feminine attention from a woman in his parish go to his head. So many friends and family members cautioned him about overstepping his bounds with several women and he just brushed them off. Excuse me, sir, you’re a married man and a vicar called to be above reproach. Consider listening to these people, mmkay? No, he doesn’t actually upon anything and in the end realised his wrong attitude towards the situation, but ugh. Not your biggest fan at the moment, my dude. Also, I hate how often people hint that Amanda and Sidney were made for each other. They’re both married—Sidney happily so. Just stop it. I’m Team Hildegard for life.
Stories 4 & 5 were a welcome reprieve that kept me from pitching the volume all together. Namely because we got some really sweet and tender moments between Sidney and Hildegard (whom I adore) and even little Anna.
The finale story was focused on homosexuality and the priesthood. From a historic standpoint, I get what the story was supposed to do. However, from a biblical standpoint, I don’t agree with the conclusions drawn that it’s acceptable and compatible with Christianity. Sidney’s views were presented as the compassionate and progressive outlook. But scripture is clear regardless of era.
Something Runcie does with such mastery is weaving in rich historical details. Things we read about in the history books get penned into being as present realities, like the South Africas apartheid, the Apollo 11 moon landing, and a cameo mention of rising start Ian McKellan (yes, Gandalf himself).
In my opinion, book 3 was the peak of the series! I’ll finish the series since there only one more instalment, and I really hope we can end on a higher note.
Content: mild language and 1 use of both s-word and Jesus’ name irreverently
November 23, 2019
I just love this series -- thought-provoking, smile-inducing, heart-warming short stories that connect and demonstrate the charm and warmth of their "hero", clergyman Sydney Chambers, with a nod to the sermon or lesson he builds from each.. Although PBS has done a great series based on these books, it does not follow Sydney's "book life" exactly. Both are a delight (but I think I love the books more).
December 29, 2020
I didn't realise that this was short stories & while I'm not a fan of them on the whole, crime shorts are the only ones I can expect to enjoy - but not in this case.
The stories themselves...well, I found them odd to say the least & very monotonous. One or two were such a non-event I couldn't see the point of them. It didn't help that I found the characters to be so tedious & with what seemed to be complicated histories between them. Consequently I didn't warm to any of them. Then there was the appearance of Pink Floyd's Roger Waters, what was all that about? Bizarre & random indeed.
Overall impression? Disappointing & hardwork...*yawn*....
The stories themselves...well, I found them odd to say the least & very monotonous. One or two were such a non-event I couldn't see the point of them. It didn't help that I found the characters to be so tedious & with what seemed to be complicated histories between them. Consequently I didn't warm to any of them. Then there was the appearance of Pink Floyd's Roger Waters, what was all that about? Bizarre & random indeed.
Overall impression? Disappointing & hardwork...*yawn*....
May 13, 2017
This was a goodreads win for me. I had never read any of the Grantchester Mysteries. The book is filled with several small easy mysteries for Sidney to crack. I would watch the new BBC series on these same books and would read more.
December 27, 2017
Finally finished this good book, despite a year of increased work and distractions!
June 13, 2019
This book in the series didn't thrill me. It was just so-so.
There is one more book left in the series. I will have to see what that book is like.
There is one more book left in the series. I will have to see what that book is like.
December 14, 2020
The final story was utterly lovely. The theology and values are beautiful. Love love love!
June 13, 2016
James Runcie in his book Sidney Cambers and the Dangers of Temptation has written a set of six novellas within this one book. The stories all deal in some manner with temptation, the temptation for revenge, the temptation of theft, the temptation of secret keeping, the temptation of murder and others. The leading character is Sidney Chambers, the Archbishop of Ely, in England. He has the habit of becoming involved with the police investigations that take place involving his friends and acquaintances, all the while continuing with his pastoral duties. In the true style of British village life, everyone knows the others business and is all too happy to have an opinion. These stories, although presented as mysteries, have a deeper moral story as explained by Sidney. He is compassionate and understanding and has a keen understanding of human nature and forgiveness. Although he states multiple times that he is not perfect, he understands that others are not perfect either.
When I began reading this story I did not realize that there are several other books and a television series with these same characters. At the beginning it was difficult to get to know the characters but soon that did not matter much as the stories stood by themselves. I’m sure I would have enjoyed it more if I had watched some of the television episodes or more of an introduction into the characters. If you were considering reading this book, perhaps starting with the earlier books or the television series would increase your enjoyment of them. However, I still enjoyed trying to keep up with the Sidney as he solves his mysteries.
I received a copy of this book from NetGalley and Bloomsbury USA in exchange for a fair and honest review.
When I began reading this story I did not realize that there are several other books and a television series with these same characters. At the beginning it was difficult to get to know the characters but soon that did not matter much as the stories stood by themselves. I’m sure I would have enjoyed it more if I had watched some of the television episodes or more of an introduction into the characters. If you were considering reading this book, perhaps starting with the earlier books or the television series would increase your enjoyment of them. However, I still enjoyed trying to keep up with the Sidney as he solves his mysteries.
I received a copy of this book from NetGalley and Bloomsbury USA in exchange for a fair and honest review.
June 15, 2016
It is the 1960s and Sidney Chambers is now Archdeacon at Ely and he is still involved in his amateur investigations, often prompted by his friend, detective Geordie Keating. Parishioners and former parishioners need his help including a glamorous divorcee who wants him to persuade her son to live a dubious commune.
Sidney's friend Amanda has problems in her own life and needs Sidney's help but how can he square that with his love for and duty to his own wife? Can long friendship exist beside marriage? Even a long planned summer trip to Germany produces a mystery for Sidney to investigate.
Kind, compassionate and thoughtful but careless of everyday tasks, Sidney attempts to do good and love a Godly life while helping as many people as he can. I'm sure these six stories will delight Sidney Chambers many fans. Unfortunately this collection didn't hold my attention as much as previous volumes in this series have done. Sidney's wife annoys me and I cannot like her however much I try. Sometimes Sidney is not quite human enough to be true in his resistance to temptation but there are flashes of all too human behaviour.
Maybe I was in the wrong mood while I was reading it, but I found the last two stories heavy going and I found reading the rest of them a little heavy going. The book is well written and the stories do have a particular charm which is characteristic of Sidney himself but it did not hold my attention as well as I expected it to.
Sidney's friend Amanda has problems in her own life and needs Sidney's help but how can he square that with his love for and duty to his own wife? Can long friendship exist beside marriage? Even a long planned summer trip to Germany produces a mystery for Sidney to investigate.
Kind, compassionate and thoughtful but careless of everyday tasks, Sidney attempts to do good and love a Godly life while helping as many people as he can. I'm sure these six stories will delight Sidney Chambers many fans. Unfortunately this collection didn't hold my attention as much as previous volumes in this series have done. Sidney's wife annoys me and I cannot like her however much I try. Sometimes Sidney is not quite human enough to be true in his resistance to temptation but there are flashes of all too human behaviour.
Maybe I was in the wrong mood while I was reading it, but I found the last two stories heavy going and I found reading the rest of them a little heavy going. The book is well written and the stories do have a particular charm which is characteristic of Sidney himself but it did not hold my attention as well as I expected it to.
April 22, 2016
This is the first one of the Sidney Chambers books that I have read, but I was familiar with the characters from having watched the Grantchester tv series. My appreciation of this book was helped immeasurably by the image of the young, handsome Chambers from the series. Chambers is middle aged in this book, but he doesn't seem to have resolved any of the issues of his youth. He still loves his former girlfriend, although he is married now, and he still can't stop himself from getting involved in police investigations.
This book is really a collection of short stories, each of which deals with a cozy mystery. I'm not really a cozy fan, so I am probably not the target audience for this book. It wasn't bad, but it was too slow and polite for me. I think that from now on I will just watch the series.
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher.
This book is really a collection of short stories, each of which deals with a cozy mystery. I'm not really a cozy fan, so I am probably not the target audience for this book. It wasn't bad, but it was too slow and polite for me. I think that from now on I will just watch the series.
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher.
October 11, 2016
First I was watching tv series and I loved it, then I started to read books and I loved it too.
Spirit of English countryside and post II WW state of the mind of common people and need for reconciliation are common for all Runcie's books. It reminds me a bit of Miss. Maprle but cannon Sidney Chambers is character for himself. Whiskey prone, jazz lover, hopelessly romantic daydreamer. I don't know much of Anglican Church and I don't want to judge any, but sometimes priests in Runcies stories are too much human and so little priests.
Spirit of English countryside and post II WW state of the mind of common people and need for reconciliation are common for all Runcie's books. It reminds me a bit of Miss. Maprle but cannon Sidney Chambers is character for himself. Whiskey prone, jazz lover, hopelessly romantic daydreamer. I don't know much of Anglican Church and I don't want to judge any, but sometimes priests in Runcies stories are too much human and so little priests.
June 29, 2016
enjoyed the latest part of the sidney chambers series in grantchester, as the books now move to the late 60's and Sidney is the archdeacon and also times are changing and gets mixed up with cults a trip to East Germany and manages a dash of Pink Floyd.
January 16, 2017
Mixed feelings on this one. Some stories quite strong, others less so.Like the previous book most of them are messy, but I still like both Sidney and Hildegard.
August 25, 2019
This book, the fifth in the Grantchester series is a definite step down from the first four books. There remains a charm in how the books are written but I was not drawn into either the characters or the plot very much. As in some of the previous books, many of the stories here are not really serious mysteries, and so the stories must have something extra to make them compelling. I think the character development has plateaued, and Runcie instead filled in the space with chitchat that wasn’t very relevant. So, yes, Sidney “solved” the “mystery” but there just is a lot of uninteresting verbiage. Another aspect of this book that disappointed me was how Sidney’s thoughts on religion have become a warmed over thin gruel - very trite and not particularly deep. In particular, I didn’t like how the last story was basically a plot device to let Runcie make a woke polemic on the church and homosexuality. Normally Runcie tries to give depth and nuance when he takes on social issues, but not here. Still, if you have enjoyed the Sidney Chambers series, you’ll mostly enjoy this book. However, if the series started with this book, I probably wouldn’t have read anymore. Hopefully the sixth book will bounce back.
March 15, 2019
The books and the PBS series are starting to line up better. Both are good, just in different ways. I like getting in Sidney's head in the books. I feel like he's more subtle and human in the novels--very three-dimensional.
I really liked this until the last chapter because it wasn't much of a mystery--it was more a device to move the overall plot and develop characters. It also seemed like Runcie was using Sidney like a ventriloquist to give voice to modern sensibilities that seemed incongruent with Sidney's vocation and character.
I am glad for Leonard being in the book--I felt for his terrible dilemma and heartbreaking struggle feeling the need to live his truth while honoring his faith and commitments. His story is important because it's certainly representative of others at the time that must have been in similar situations. I would liked to have seen Sidney given space to process and wrestle instead of making him immediately support his friend so strongly. He likely would have come to the same conclusions in the end, but going through the struggle with him as a reader would have been more satisfying.
Looking forward to the next Grantchester book.
I really liked this until the last chapter because it wasn't much of a mystery--it was more a device to move the overall plot and develop characters. It also seemed like Runcie was using Sidney like a ventriloquist to give voice to modern sensibilities that seemed incongruent with Sidney's vocation and character.
I am glad for Leonard being in the book--I felt for his terrible dilemma and heartbreaking struggle feeling the need to live his truth while honoring his faith and commitments. His story is important because it's certainly representative of others at the time that must have been in similar situations. I would liked to have seen Sidney given space to process and wrestle instead of making him immediately support his friend so strongly. He likely would have come to the same conclusions in the end, but going through the struggle with him as a reader would have been more satisfying.
Looking forward to the next Grantchester book.
June 26, 2022
Sidney Chambers and the Dangers of Temptation by James Runcie
323 Pages
Publisher: Bloomsbury USA
Release Date: June 14, 2016
Fiction, General Fiction (Adult), Mystery, Thriller, Historical, 1960s
Sidney, along with his wife, Hildegard, and daughter Anna, go to East Germany for vacation to visit her family. During this time, the Americans are landing on the moon but since they are in a Communist country, it is not televised. The German household holds many secrets and Hildegard wonders if the house isn’t secretly being recorded. In England, Mrs. Maguire’s husband, missing since the war, returns. Amanda announces her intention to file for divorce. Lenard and Simon are being blackmailed.
This is the fifth book in The Grantchester Mystery Series. I have long been a fan of the PBS Granchester series but surprised how different the book was to the television show. I rather like the characters in the book better than the show. They are more authentic and not as emotional in the book. If you like Father Brown, Sister Boniface, and other cozy type mysteries, you will enjoy reading this.
323 Pages
Publisher: Bloomsbury USA
Release Date: June 14, 2016
Fiction, General Fiction (Adult), Mystery, Thriller, Historical, 1960s
Sidney, along with his wife, Hildegard, and daughter Anna, go to East Germany for vacation to visit her family. During this time, the Americans are landing on the moon but since they are in a Communist country, it is not televised. The German household holds many secrets and Hildegard wonders if the house isn’t secretly being recorded. In England, Mrs. Maguire’s husband, missing since the war, returns. Amanda announces her intention to file for divorce. Lenard and Simon are being blackmailed.
This is the fifth book in The Grantchester Mystery Series. I have long been a fan of the PBS Granchester series but surprised how different the book was to the television show. I rather like the characters in the book better than the show. They are more authentic and not as emotional in the book. If you like Father Brown, Sister Boniface, and other cozy type mysteries, you will enjoy reading this.
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