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Russell and Leduc mysteries #2
The Dogs of Winter
The sequel to The Birds That Stay, hailed by the New York Journal of Books as "a fascinating and gripping tale of suspense" and the Globe and Mail as one of "Ten thrillers that will keep you on the edge of your seat".
The Dogs of Winter begins after a howling snowstorm envelops Montreal, and the body of a young woman is discovered in its wake. The only clue to her identity is the photograph in her pocket, and on it, the phone number of Detective Inspector Romeo Leduc. Meanwhile, Marie and Romeo are busy navigating their deepening relationship, and a student at Marie's college is the victim of a terrible assault. While Romeo begins to think that the dead woman may be linked to violence against several homeless people in the city, the search for justice in both cases is thwarted by societal apathy and ignorance, even as the killer is stalking the frigid streets of Montreal, preying on and terrorizing its most vulnerable citizens.
Says Ann Cleeves of the new book: "it's about power and powerlessness in the dead of winter. And more than that, it's a rollicking good read."
The Dogs of Winter begins after a howling snowstorm envelops Montreal, and the body of a young woman is discovered in its wake. The only clue to her identity is the photograph in her pocket, and on it, the phone number of Detective Inspector Romeo Leduc. Meanwhile, Marie and Romeo are busy navigating their deepening relationship, and a student at Marie's college is the victim of a terrible assault. While Romeo begins to think that the dead woman may be linked to violence against several homeless people in the city, the search for justice in both cases is thwarted by societal apathy and ignorance, even as the killer is stalking the frigid streets of Montreal, preying on and terrorizing its most vulnerable citizens.
Says Ann Cleeves of the new book: "it's about power and powerlessness in the dead of winter. And more than that, it's a rollicking good read."
Audiobook
First published October 20, 2020
15 people are currently reading
195 people want to read
About the author
Ann Lambert
14 books60 followersAnn Lambert has been writing and directing for the stage for thirty-five years. Several of her plays, including The Wall, Parallel Lines, Very Heaven, The Mary Project and Two Short Women have been performed in theatres in Canada, the United States, Europe and Australia.
She has been a teacher of English literature at Dawson College for almost twenty-eight years in Montreal, Quebec, where she makes her home.
She has been a teacher of English literature at Dawson College for almost twenty-eight years in Montreal, Quebec, where she makes her home.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 87 reviews
December 28, 2020
Dogs of Winter is the second book in the Russell and LeDuc series. A young woman’s body is found by the side of the road. Initially assumed to be the victim of a hit and run, LeDuc realizes she was actually murdered. And then another homeless person also becomes a victim. As so often happens, the crimes against the homeless are not actively pursued until Romeo begins to investigate. There is also a subplot about a young woman molested by a rich, white man with a Jeffrey Epstein feel to it.
I initially found the book confusing as we are introduced to a wide range of characters and it’s not easy to see how everything and one is connected. But it all gelled in my mind by about the 25% completion. We learn much more about Marie and Romeo’s histories in this book, and see how they grapple with whether to take their relationship to the next level by moving in together. Lambert rounds out her story with in-depth information on the Inuits and whales. Some may see this as a distraction from the murder mystery, but I really appreciated feeling like I was learning something.
The ending concerning the murders felt a little out of left field, but overall this was an interesting police procedural.
Ann Lambert narrates her own book and does an excellent job.
My thanks to netgalley and ECW Audio for an advance copy of this book.
I initially found the book confusing as we are introduced to a wide range of characters and it’s not easy to see how everything and one is connected. But it all gelled in my mind by about the 25% completion. We learn much more about Marie and Romeo’s histories in this book, and see how they grapple with whether to take their relationship to the next level by moving in together. Lambert rounds out her story with in-depth information on the Inuits and whales. Some may see this as a distraction from the murder mystery, but I really appreciated feeling like I was learning something.
The ending concerning the murders felt a little out of left field, but overall this was an interesting police procedural.
Ann Lambert narrates her own book and does an excellent job.
My thanks to netgalley and ECW Audio for an advance copy of this book.
December 14, 2020
4.5 stars rounded up to 5.
Thanks to NetGalley and ECW Press Audio for a copy of this book in return for an honest review. Its author, Ann Lambert, narrated it. Her voice was enthralling and enhanced this well-written, character-driven plot.
Two of my favourite fictional detectives are in crime thrillers based in Montreal, and I believe Detective Romeo Leduc of the SQ will soon be joining their esteemed company. I had not been aware of this series and purchased the previous book, 'The Birds That Stay' when only partly through this audiobook. I will miss the frigid cold and snowstorms in Montreal this winter. I have been going to Montreal each winter season to visit family. Due to COVID lockdowns, I will be content to think about the vividly described sites, blizzards, and its fine restaurants through this atmospheric writing.
A deranged serial killer is on the streets of Montreal, preying on the marginalized and homeless. We are introduced to three of the victims, but there are probably more. Romeo Leduc is on the case as the murdered people do not seem to be a priority with the Montreal City Police. They are mainly ignored due to their race or poverty. The motive for the killings is shocking and unusual, and not one I had anticipated.
The plot is fast-paced, and it cleverly juggles many characters. These people are so well developed, distinct and memorable that there is no confusion or effort needed in keeping them straight. My only criticism would be that when the serial killer was revealed, he was not as well known to the readers as most of the characters. There were a few possible suspects and red herrings along the way. We do learn the killer's motive and his horrendous background late in the book.
Romeo's romantic interest, Marie, is a teacher and a strong, intriguing character. She is troubled by the rape of her most promising student. The book draws attention to the plight of Inuit women who are the victims of predatory males. Although the book focuses on destitute native and homeless people on Montreal's streets, we are introduced to a wealthy TV producer who hosts parties in his lavish mansion. Separate threads are drawn together near the satisfying conclusion, with some of the major characters are in danger of freezing and injury. I hope there will be a third book in this excellent series.
Thanks to NetGalley and ECW Press Audio for a copy of this book in return for an honest review. Its author, Ann Lambert, narrated it. Her voice was enthralling and enhanced this well-written, character-driven plot.
Two of my favourite fictional detectives are in crime thrillers based in Montreal, and I believe Detective Romeo Leduc of the SQ will soon be joining their esteemed company. I had not been aware of this series and purchased the previous book, 'The Birds That Stay' when only partly through this audiobook. I will miss the frigid cold and snowstorms in Montreal this winter. I have been going to Montreal each winter season to visit family. Due to COVID lockdowns, I will be content to think about the vividly described sites, blizzards, and its fine restaurants through this atmospheric writing.
A deranged serial killer is on the streets of Montreal, preying on the marginalized and homeless. We are introduced to three of the victims, but there are probably more. Romeo Leduc is on the case as the murdered people do not seem to be a priority with the Montreal City Police. They are mainly ignored due to their race or poverty. The motive for the killings is shocking and unusual, and not one I had anticipated.
The plot is fast-paced, and it cleverly juggles many characters. These people are so well developed, distinct and memorable that there is no confusion or effort needed in keeping them straight. My only criticism would be that when the serial killer was revealed, he was not as well known to the readers as most of the characters. There were a few possible suspects and red herrings along the way. We do learn the killer's motive and his horrendous background late in the book.
Romeo's romantic interest, Marie, is a teacher and a strong, intriguing character. She is troubled by the rape of her most promising student. The book draws attention to the plight of Inuit women who are the victims of predatory males. Although the book focuses on destitute native and homeless people on Montreal's streets, we are introduced to a wealthy TV producer who hosts parties in his lavish mansion. Separate threads are drawn together near the satisfying conclusion, with some of the major characters are in danger of freezing and injury. I hope there will be a third book in this excellent series.
February 8, 2022
THE DOGS OF WINTER “… t’étais pas né pour un petit pain”!
At the three-quarter mark, I was in love and this book was destined in my mind for a rock solid 5-star review and a position in abeyance on my Top Ten Reads of 2022 list. THE DOGS OF WINTER had it all.
The description of Montreal was so absolutely pitch perfect that it had to be said that Montreal was actually one of the novel’s characters. There is just no way that this book could have taken place anywhere else – the English-French divide; the rich-homeless divide; the jurisdictional squabbles between the Montreal police force proper and the Sûreté du Québec; the particular problems of aboriginal issues and homeless stemming from Quebec’s large Inuit population; Montreal’s decade’s long feud with New York City over who makes the best bagels in the world; the blinding snowfall and the bitterly cold winter; the beautiful nearby wilderness of the Laurentian mountains; and, of course, the bizarre Joual dialect and off-the-wall idiomatic expressions that would make a Parisian French speaker’s head spin.
Then there was a multi-faceted police procedural style plot that would make any lover of the genre think they had died and gone to heaven – a serial killer targeting homeless people with a particular fondness for Inuit girls; a wealthy rapist of young women and girls who (à la Jeffrey Epstein) thought himself above the law and who relied on his fixer and procurer (I dare say, à la Ghislaine Maxwell); a wonderfully heartwarming, mature and entirely realistic romance between the stars of the show, SQ head of homicide Roméo Leduc and university lecturer Marie Russell, complete with contentious baggage over existing family and previous relationships; a police jurisdictional squabble; and the investigation of a hit-and-run resulting in death. On the face of it, that sounds like a hopeless heap of ingredients but it didn’t take long for Lambert to toss them all quite masterfully into a well blended and delicious salad.
Then came the climax of the story. The rails broke into pieces, the wheels fell off the train, the bridge collapsed, and the entire story de-railed and tumbled into the St Lawrence River. Aside from a deus ex machina solution to the identity of the serial killer that came out of nowhere from downtown Lachine three miles beyond the left field fence of Olympic Stadium, there were a number of other issues. Most notably (read the spoilers at your peril):
SPOILER #1
SPOILER #2
SPOILER #3
SPOILER #4
I can’t believe it but I actually finished the book angry and it took everything I had to calm down and not toss it against the wall. Someone’s got to give Ms Lambert’s head a serious shake and say that she’d better shake a leg on the next book.
Paul Weiss
At the three-quarter mark, I was in love and this book was destined in my mind for a rock solid 5-star review and a position in abeyance on my Top Ten Reads of 2022 list. THE DOGS OF WINTER had it all.
The description of Montreal was so absolutely pitch perfect that it had to be said that Montreal was actually one of the novel’s characters. There is just no way that this book could have taken place anywhere else – the English-French divide; the rich-homeless divide; the jurisdictional squabbles between the Montreal police force proper and the Sûreté du Québec; the particular problems of aboriginal issues and homeless stemming from Quebec’s large Inuit population; Montreal’s decade’s long feud with New York City over who makes the best bagels in the world; the blinding snowfall and the bitterly cold winter; the beautiful nearby wilderness of the Laurentian mountains; and, of course, the bizarre Joual dialect and off-the-wall idiomatic expressions that would make a Parisian French speaker’s head spin.
Then there was a multi-faceted police procedural style plot that would make any lover of the genre think they had died and gone to heaven – a serial killer targeting homeless people with a particular fondness for Inuit girls; a wealthy rapist of young women and girls who (à la Jeffrey Epstein) thought himself above the law and who relied on his fixer and procurer (I dare say, à la Ghislaine Maxwell); a wonderfully heartwarming, mature and entirely realistic romance between the stars of the show, SQ head of homicide Roméo Leduc and university lecturer Marie Russell, complete with contentious baggage over existing family and previous relationships; a police jurisdictional squabble; and the investigation of a hit-and-run resulting in death. On the face of it, that sounds like a hopeless heap of ingredients but it didn’t take long for Lambert to toss them all quite masterfully into a well blended and delicious salad.
Then came the climax of the story. The rails broke into pieces, the wheels fell off the train, the bridge collapsed, and the entire story de-railed and tumbled into the St Lawrence River. Aside from a deus ex machina solution to the identity of the serial killer that came out of nowhere from downtown Lachine three miles beyond the left field fence of Olympic Stadium, there were a number of other issues. Most notably (read the spoilers at your peril):
SPOILER #1
SPOILER #2
SPOILER #3
SPOILER #4
I can’t believe it but I actually finished the book angry and it took everything I had to calm down and not toss it against the wall. Someone’s got to give Ms Lambert’s head a serious shake and say that she’d better shake a leg on the next book.
Paul Weiss
December 18, 2020
This book raises a number of interesting and timely issues. The protagonist, Detective Romeo Leduc of the Surete is investigating a series of killings involving the homeless on the streets of Montreal. The investigation highlights police apathy to the plight of the homeless. The racism and indifference displayed towards the Indigenous population also comes into play, along with the issue of sexual abuse.
The book, however, is not a polemic describing these ills.The issues are artfully integrated into a well crafted plot that is populated with a host of characters that are well drawn. The characters of Leduc and his companion,Professor Marie Russell are attractively woven into the story and leave the reader hoping for further encounters with them.
The book, however, is not a polemic describing these ills.The issues are artfully integrated into a well crafted plot that is populated with a host of characters that are well drawn. The characters of Leduc and his companion,Professor Marie Russell are attractively woven into the story and leave the reader hoping for further encounters with them.
February 23, 2021
4/5; 4 stars
I really enjoyed this second story by Ann Lambert. I don't know if a non-Canadian would find it as compelling but I thought the insights into the Inuit culture and the vulnerability of those coming south was really fascinating and disturbing. Beside that, the mystery, the clashes between the municipal and provincial police forces, the family issues, and the underlying romance between Marie and Romeo made this a well rounded story. One thing I appreciated in the story, even though it wasn’t a major component, was that Marie and Romeo were mature protagonists. Their love story was a subtle part of the overall book but I liked the perspective of people in my demographic finding love and happiness, all the while dealing with the baggage of a life well lived; adult children, aging parents, long standing careers.
I really enjoyed this second story by Ann Lambert. I don't know if a non-Canadian would find it as compelling but I thought the insights into the Inuit culture and the vulnerability of those coming south was really fascinating and disturbing. Beside that, the mystery, the clashes between the municipal and provincial police forces, the family issues, and the underlying romance between Marie and Romeo made this a well rounded story. One thing I appreciated in the story, even though it wasn’t a major component, was that Marie and Romeo were mature protagonists. Their love story was a subtle part of the overall book but I liked the perspective of people in my demographic finding love and happiness, all the while dealing with the baggage of a life well lived; adult children, aging parents, long standing careers.
September 22, 2024
It is important to note that the majority of the themes explored in this book deal with sensitive subject matters. My review, therefore, touches on these topics as well. Many people might find the subject matters of the book as well as those detailed in my review overwhelming. I would suggest you steer clear of both if this is the case. Please note that from this point forward I will be writing about matters which contain reflections on murder, animal death, physical abuse, & others.
Lambert brings the reader through the deep winter in Montreal & introduces the tormented relationships between citizens. I had no prior knowledge of this book series when I embarked on reading this second instalment, however, I did not find that to have hindered my experience in the least.
Lambert’s writing flawlessly introduces the two main characters, Marie & Roméo, in the midst of a decision that will alter their current way of life. Along the way, the reader learns about various deaths which have been intentionally occurring in the streets of the city. What seems to link many of these cases together is the disappearance of the dogs.
Narrated by Lambert herself, I found the audio experience to be enthralling. Dialogue between characters was easy to follow & with Lambert able to speak French, I found the experience of the characters & their speech authentic. I really appreciated Lambert’s narration of her own story.
There were many brutal factors that were presented in this book. The reality that many Indigenous peoples face both in Canada, & in general, leaving their communities to move to a big city where the majority of basic resources are found. As well, the obscene level of violence against women in our country is very well hushed up.
I will admit that I sometimes found the way that this information was presented as being done for shock value rather than the casual transmission of information that might have transpired in my own conversations. However, getting to know Marie as a character left me feeling as though her outbursts were true to her nature. I was particularly annoyed when she was flying off the rails at Roméo while they discussed sexual assault. Her character annoyed me more than anything else.
Overall, I found this story flowed well. Conflicts seemed to find a decent resolution. However, there were a couple of aspects that I had wished we touched on a bit more. Perhaps, had I read the first book I might have held more information on the subjects.
I wanted to understand who Hélène was. We rarely touched on her throughout the story but she seemed to play a heavy underlying role, and I lost track of her importance near the end. But then, she reappears & is playing the same heavyweight role as earlier & yet, we still weren’t given much to go on.
The conclusion of the sexual assault case felt quick & unrealistic, compared to how things seem to work in the real world. I didn’t feel at all shocked when the murderer was revealed. Had we learnt about him sooner, rather than him being a shadow-man whom certain other people may or may not have spotted around town, I might have felt more dread when his reveal was announced. Even when we were reading about his back story, I felt totally uninterested & the whole thing seemed to zoom by without the weight I would have expected from such information.
Overall, I would suggest this book to others. It’s well written, well-thought-out & developed. I enjoyed reading about a city that I am familiar with, regarding a topic in which I am also very invested. This book is easy to get through, you might find yourself flying through the pages or the audio because it’s so smooth. I am glad to have read it myself.
Thank you to NetGalley, ECW Press Audio, & Ann Lambert for the free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review!
Lambert brings the reader through the deep winter in Montreal & introduces the tormented relationships between citizens. I had no prior knowledge of this book series when I embarked on reading this second instalment, however, I did not find that to have hindered my experience in the least.
Lambert’s writing flawlessly introduces the two main characters, Marie & Roméo, in the midst of a decision that will alter their current way of life. Along the way, the reader learns about various deaths which have been intentionally occurring in the streets of the city. What seems to link many of these cases together is the disappearance of the dogs.
Narrated by Lambert herself, I found the audio experience to be enthralling. Dialogue between characters was easy to follow & with Lambert able to speak French, I found the experience of the characters & their speech authentic. I really appreciated Lambert’s narration of her own story.
There were many brutal factors that were presented in this book. The reality that many Indigenous peoples face both in Canada, & in general, leaving their communities to move to a big city where the majority of basic resources are found. As well, the obscene level of violence against women in our country is very well hushed up.
I will admit that I sometimes found the way that this information was presented as being done for shock value rather than the casual transmission of information that might have transpired in my own conversations. However, getting to know Marie as a character left me feeling as though her outbursts were true to her nature. I was particularly annoyed when she was flying off the rails at Roméo while they discussed sexual assault. Her character annoyed me more than anything else.
Overall, I found this story flowed well. Conflicts seemed to find a decent resolution. However, there were a couple of aspects that I had wished we touched on a bit more. Perhaps, had I read the first book I might have held more information on the subjects.
I wanted to understand who Hélène was. We rarely touched on her throughout the story but she seemed to play a heavy underlying role, and I lost track of her importance near the end. But then, she reappears & is playing the same heavyweight role as earlier & yet, we still weren’t given much to go on.
The conclusion of the sexual assault case felt quick & unrealistic, compared to how things seem to work in the real world. I didn’t feel at all shocked when the murderer was revealed. Had we learnt about him sooner, rather than him being a shadow-man whom certain other people may or may not have spotted around town, I might have felt more dread when his reveal was announced. Even when we were reading about his back story, I felt totally uninterested & the whole thing seemed to zoom by without the weight I would have expected from such information.
Overall, I would suggest this book to others. It’s well written, well-thought-out & developed. I enjoyed reading about a city that I am familiar with, regarding a topic in which I am also very invested. This book is easy to get through, you might find yourself flying through the pages or the audio because it’s so smooth. I am glad to have read it myself.
Thank you to NetGalley, ECW Press Audio, & Ann Lambert for the free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review!
June 15, 2023
Set in a frigid and snow laden Montreal January, this novel evokes the place and season very well. The diversity of the city, both in ethnicity and socioeconomic status is well described.
The novel incorporates many social observations and cultural references within its pages. It incorporates themes of homelessness, crimes against Inuit women, global warming, the 'me too' movement, racial profiling by police, and the inherent racial prejudice again indigenous peoples.
The two protagonists are personable and intelligent. It is fascinating to follow their personal relationship as well as their working life.
Though most people plan ahead for tomorrow, finding that their hopes and aspirations keep them going, it is not so with the homeless. They live entirely in the present, getting through each day is enough of a challenge without worrying about what tomorrow might bring.
After reading the first two novels, I can highly recommend this novel and this series to readers who enjoy socially relevant crime fiction. In my opinion, this author and this series are deserving of a much wider readership.
4.5 stars rounded up
The novel incorporates many social observations and cultural references within its pages. It incorporates themes of homelessness, crimes against Inuit women, global warming, the 'me too' movement, racial profiling by police, and the inherent racial prejudice again indigenous peoples.
The two protagonists are personable and intelligent. It is fascinating to follow their personal relationship as well as their working life.
Though most people plan ahead for tomorrow, finding that their hopes and aspirations keep them going, it is not so with the homeless. They live entirely in the present, getting through each day is enough of a challenge without worrying about what tomorrow might bring.
After reading the first two novels, I can highly recommend this novel and this series to readers who enjoy socially relevant crime fiction. In my opinion, this author and this series are deserving of a much wider readership.
4.5 stars rounded up
October 3, 2020
The Dogs of Winter is the second offering in the Russell and LeDuc mystery series. Once again our two protagonists work together to solve the case of a young First Nations girl, the victim of a hit and run during a blinding Montreal blizzard. I really love this series. It’s smart and timely, addressing societal questions concerning #MeToo, homelessness, and the raging indifference to the disappearance of First Nation women.
Highly recommend for all mystery readers, especially those who have finished all of Louise Penny.
Highly recommend for all mystery readers, especially those who have finished all of Louise Penny.
December 19, 2020
Listened to this one. I couldn't put it down. The plotting is exceptional, and the mystery is compelling. There's something particularly twisted about targeting and victimizing marginalized people. The story had me riled up. I think it was a sound exploration of serious issues. And it was entertaining, too. Excellent pacing, and a tense, upsetting plot.
So, I've discovered that I'm not a big fan of Marie. I don't hate her, she is a very realistic character, and I can see that her character serves as a useful counterpoint to the protagonist, but gosh. Like, she strikes me as the kind of person who I would hate to work with, or even have as a neighbour. But that is just a personality thing. Also, the protagonist's daughter makes me grimace. (It feels like a bit of a trope- detective with a stroppy daughter that he cant figure out how to communicate with?) The characters are all well written and well rounded, for better or worse.
One last note, and this is a reader thing, not a writer thing, but I HATE it so much when the word "delicious" is used to describe anything other than food, and Marie used it to describe a baby twice and other non food items a few other times. It made my skin crawl. But yeah, otherwise, I quite like the writing.
Ok, an actual last note. I was really interested in the progress made in the Hélène case, and I can't wait to read more about it.
So, I've discovered that I'm not a big fan of Marie. I don't hate her, she is a very realistic character, and I can see that her character serves as a useful counterpoint to the protagonist, but gosh. Like, she strikes me as the kind of person who I would hate to work with, or even have as a neighbour. But that is just a personality thing. Also, the protagonist's daughter makes me grimace. (It feels like a bit of a trope- detective with a stroppy daughter that he cant figure out how to communicate with?) The characters are all well written and well rounded, for better or worse.
One last note, and this is a reader thing, not a writer thing, but I HATE it so much when the word "delicious" is used to describe anything other than food, and Marie used it to describe a baby twice and other non food items a few other times. It made my skin crawl. But yeah, otherwise, I quite like the writing.
Ok, an actual last note. I was really interested in the progress made in the Hélène case, and I can't wait to read more about it.
August 30, 2020
Before I started this book I went back and read the first one. That got me hooked so I eagerly got started on this one. I was not disappointed in the story line or the characters and I do hope there will be others in this series.
This book followed currents issues prevalent in our society with the disappearance and disregard of indigenous women and the "Me Too" movement. The setting of this narrative is Canada and they are not immune to these problems either. The combination of a police inspector and a retired marine biologist may seem out of place but they make it work and aid each other in tracking down a very sadistic killer with an unhinged personality, with coworkers taking care of the well known celebrity with a dirty secret.
If you enjoy the works of Louise Penney I urge you to give this one a try. I don't believe you will be disappointed.
This book followed currents issues prevalent in our society with the disappearance and disregard of indigenous women and the "Me Too" movement. The setting of this narrative is Canada and they are not immune to these problems either. The combination of a police inspector and a retired marine biologist may seem out of place but they make it work and aid each other in tracking down a very sadistic killer with an unhinged personality, with coworkers taking care of the well known celebrity with a dirty secret.
If you enjoy the works of Louise Penney I urge you to give this one a try. I don't believe you will be disappointed.
August 18, 2020
328 pages
I read the Kindle edition.
4 stars
This is a very busy book. There are many, many characters for the reader to keep straight.
This book takes on the task of illuminating the devastating effect that Montreal winters have on the homeless, both First Nations people as well as others. There is also a serial killer running loose who has a very twisted idea of justice, and a very well-heeled rapist.
Marie and Romero's relationship deepens and they both learn the value of making adjustments and concessions in a relationship.
The descriptions of Montreal in the winter are breathtaking. While, I've been to Montreal, I have never been in the winter. (Too cold for me little Nebraska flower that I am...) The environment, the terrain and the sheer beauty of it all are all described extremely well. The hardships of not only the homeless, many of whom suffer frostbite or even freeze to death, but also of the ordinary people who are not “sentenced” to living on the street.
The book is well written, but the plotting is a little confusing at times due to the sheer multitude of people introduced in the story. One almost needs a chart. I liked Marie and Romeo (terrible name, however), for their maturity and love for one another. I appreciated the interspersal of occasional French phrases here and there as it gave me a chance to practice my rusty French.
I want to thank NetGalley and Second Story Press for forwarding to me a copy of this entertaining book for me to read, enjoy and review.
I read the Kindle edition.
4 stars
This is a very busy book. There are many, many characters for the reader to keep straight.
This book takes on the task of illuminating the devastating effect that Montreal winters have on the homeless, both First Nations people as well as others. There is also a serial killer running loose who has a very twisted idea of justice, and a very well-heeled rapist.
Marie and Romero's relationship deepens and they both learn the value of making adjustments and concessions in a relationship.
The descriptions of Montreal in the winter are breathtaking. While, I've been to Montreal, I have never been in the winter. (Too cold for me little Nebraska flower that I am...) The environment, the terrain and the sheer beauty of it all are all described extremely well. The hardships of not only the homeless, many of whom suffer frostbite or even freeze to death, but also of the ordinary people who are not “sentenced” to living on the street.
The book is well written, but the plotting is a little confusing at times due to the sheer multitude of people introduced in the story. One almost needs a chart. I liked Marie and Romeo (terrible name, however), for their maturity and love for one another. I appreciated the interspersal of occasional French phrases here and there as it gave me a chance to practice my rusty French.
I want to thank NetGalley and Second Story Press for forwarding to me a copy of this entertaining book for me to read, enjoy and review.
January 24, 2023
This novel is terrible, especially structurally. The plot tendrils that are unresolved and underdeveloped are immensely frustrating. As for the rest of the core narrative, which is an assemblage of a wind-bag sac of empty words blowing, nay, tumbling across each page resulting an exercise in disappointment.
March 7, 2021
Fantastic. A gripping story set against a background of social issues, portrayed expertly and engagingly.
February 26, 2025
Thank you NetGalley for giving me a copy of this audiobook in exchange for an honest review.
I attempted to read this book a few times and each time I just didn’t get very far. The story is a little slow, with too much set up. It feels like it takes forever to really get rolling. Nothing really hooked me at the start and it was just difficult to keep reading. :/
I attempted to read this book a few times and each time I just didn’t get very far. The story is a little slow, with too much set up. It feels like it takes forever to really get rolling. Nothing really hooked me at the start and it was just difficult to keep reading. :/
December 12, 2020
Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for an ARC of this book.
.
That was sooooo boring!! I didn't like the book one bit, there were a lot of characters and a lot of stories that it was so hard to follow up with each story.
The plot wasn't that interesting and the author kept pushing random information just to look educated which was so forced!!
The characters were all bland, no one made me interested in his side of the story or what would happen to him.
Overall, a really bad read.
.
That was sooooo boring!! I didn't like the book one bit, there were a lot of characters and a lot of stories that it was so hard to follow up with each story.
The plot wasn't that interesting and the author kept pushing random information just to look educated which was so forced!!
The characters were all bland, no one made me interested in his side of the story or what would happen to him.
Overall, a really bad read.
March 2, 2021
A riveting, timely novel that artfully weaves into a compelling mystery important social issues dealing with our indigenous population, and the abusive treatment of women we can all relate to. The vivid pictures painted of Montreal – Atwater Tunnel, Cabot Square, Alexis Nihon – set this book in familiar surroundings to those who live here.
In the depth of a Quebec winter the developing relationship of Professor Marie Russell and Detective Romeo Leduc is portrayed, as he and his colleagues, work to resolve the mystery of the recent deaths of two Inuit, while uncovering the sexual abuse of a student, leading to other abusive acts by a wealthy perpetrator. From the first chapter, with skill and intrigue we are reminded of the powerless and the powerful in our society.
In the depth of a Quebec winter the developing relationship of Professor Marie Russell and Detective Romeo Leduc is portrayed, as he and his colleagues, work to resolve the mystery of the recent deaths of two Inuit, while uncovering the sexual abuse of a student, leading to other abusive acts by a wealthy perpetrator. From the first chapter, with skill and intrigue we are reminded of the powerless and the powerful in our society.
August 25, 2020
I never really felt invested in any of the characters, and the multiple plot lines never really seemed to sync up for me, even in the end. I appreciate when an author tries to bring attention to issues of social justice and equity, but I felt like facts and stats about rape and the treatment of Inuit women were more of a lecture or report than a natural part of the story. The last book I read, These Women, was a masterclass in letting the voices of underrepresented people speak for themselves, so this book pales in comparison.
ARC from NetGalley
ARC from NetGalley
October 29, 2020
If you enjoy Louise Penny and i know most readers do – you will also enjoy Ann Lambert! The Russell and Leduc Mystery series are also set in the Montreal area and feature the charming Chief Inspector of Homicide, Romeo Leduc and his girlfriend Marie Russell, a college professor and older woman! In this thriller, Leduc is investigating the possibility of a serial killer stalking the streets of Montreal targeting the vulnerable homeless and Indigenous women. A real page-turner. Add this to your “books to read” list.
February 25, 2021
This was a fair mystery, but I found it didn’t tie all the characters together as well as the first one. I would say 3.5 as it was solid in some aspects and kept me guessing the whole way, it was just that the ending made me feel like some characters and their experiences weren’t necessary to the plot and that left me a little confused.
I still really like that it was set in Quebec and the focus on Inuit homelessness in Montreal was a great addition.
I still really like that it was set in Quebec and the focus on Inuit homelessness in Montreal was a great addition.
March 30, 2021
In this beautifully written and well-constructed sequel to the Birds that Stay, Ann Lambert has captivated her audience once again in this gripping mystery which touches upon so many of the difficult issues affecting Canadian society today. This is a must read and I can't wait for her third installment of the series.
May 8, 2022
This is really a 2 star book except for the wonderful, atmospheric descriptions of Montreal (hence, I bumped it to a 3 star review). When I reviewed The Birds That Stay about a year ago, I said it was slow to start to the point where I kept checking to see how many pages I had left. Then it picked up and came to a great finish.
I have to modify that statement for The Dogs of Winter as it is an even slower start (for about three-quarters of the book) and then a hurried scramble to solve the case and tie the threads together. But there is a lack of resolution for several of the storylines (book #3 maybe??). Plus I just don't feel the chemistry between Russell and Leduc.
Because the character Marie Russell spends time cross-country skiing, I kept thinking that this book was like a novice cross-country skier going uphill with a herringbone technique, and then coming down the other side too fast, hoping that the braking technique works before hitting the tree at the bottom of the hill. The skier didn't hit the tree, but it wasn't a pretty descent. Same for this book.
I have to modify that statement for The Dogs of Winter as it is an even slower start (for about three-quarters of the book) and then a hurried scramble to solve the case and tie the threads together. But there is a lack of resolution for several of the storylines (book #3 maybe??). Plus I just don't feel the chemistry between Russell and Leduc.
Because the character Marie Russell spends time cross-country skiing, I kept thinking that this book was like a novice cross-country skier going uphill with a herringbone technique, and then coming down the other side too fast, hoping that the braking technique works before hitting the tree at the bottom of the hill. The skier didn't hit the tree, but it wasn't a pretty descent. Same for this book.
October 31, 2024
Loved the social issues this book tackled on as I feel like some novels in this genre prefer to not touch them at all, but couldn’t for the life of me care about the two main characters. Marie must have repeated the 10 years difference between her and Romeo at least 35 times…we got it the first time.
I think the author wanted to talk about many issues in our current society and I respect her for so, but by doing so, many of them get tossed to the side. She developed at least 4 crimes plots around those issues and only one get resolved at the end.
I think the author wanted to talk about many issues in our current society and I respect her for so, but by doing so, many of them get tossed to the side. She developed at least 4 crimes plots around those issues and only one get resolved at the end.
November 28, 2024
When homeless individuals are found frozen to death, detective Leduc and his now-girlfriend Professor Marie Russell work together to learn more. Much deeper than I can convey in words, this is an important work about homeless individuals, especially young women from vulnerable indigenous communities. Gritty thriller. Enjoyed it immensely.
May 3, 2021
I really was not too crazy for it at the beginning. Being a Montrealer as well I felt like I was being given an annoying forced tour of the city which would not have made a huge difference to the story. But as the book progressed I really started to enjoy the story although I feel there were some loose ends which leads me to believe there will be a #3.
October 21, 2020
The Dogs of Winter
Ann Lambert
October 20, 2020
This is Ann Lambert’s 2nd in her Russell and Leduc Mystery series. It begins in Montreal with a storm that began early in the day. It progressed to a torrencial level in the afternoon with temperatures below zero. Rosie Nuklik knew better than going out in the weather. She didn’t have warm enough clothes and only one mitten as she lost one of her prized gloves her grandmother had made from seal skin. She buried her bare hand in her coat letting the miniature dog she held within, lick her hand. She knew the man would not meet her as he requested but she needed to see him. Standing next to the cement wall on the tunnel she prayed the cars would avoid hitting her. She was just trying to avoid the icy wind and blowing snow. Hiding, waiting, the big car came through the tunnel zipping way too fast. It spun on the ice, she tried to run the opposite direction but it thunked into her hip throwing her forward into the snow. The woman driver slowed but didn’t stop to help her. Rosie lay on the snow covered bank in pain hoping that aid would come. When she was sure she would freeze, a man came off the road and onto the embankment. Hoping he would send for an ambulance she relaxed; instead he reached in, stole her pup and beat her until she took her last breath.
Marie Russell instructed her students about whales from the small college in Montreal. She lived in a cottage on the outskirts of town. Detective Inspector Romeo Leduc lived in Quebec City. He was the boss and much of the time he was busy but of late he and his partner, Nicole were working cold cases trying to solve the murders of the past. Montreal however was in the throngs of a savage perpetrator attacking homeless Inuit people and leaving them to freeze in the night. Marie was beside herself. On their Saturday night date she would ask Romeo to lend a hand in solving the trouble. The Inuit small towns were located north of Quebec. Students were given scholarships to study in Montreal. People were traveling down with family for medical care as it was limited within the native settlements. It was too high a percentage that was being affected by this terrifying stranger.
The first book in this series was The Birds That Stay. I had not read this title so I was a bit discomforted by the French in the dialogue as well as the lack of information I had about the characters. That is to be expected when one book starts as the other concludes. It took me awhile but being an avid mystery buff, I adapted.
The Dogs of Winter by Ann Lambert was published today, October 20, 2020 by Second Story Press of Toronto, Ontario. Lambert’s readers should be sure to pick up this latest thriller. If you enjoy international mysteries you may want to read the first in the Russell/Leduc series first to catch you up on the storyline. Regardless, do enjoy.
Ann Lambert
October 20, 2020
This is Ann Lambert’s 2nd in her Russell and Leduc Mystery series. It begins in Montreal with a storm that began early in the day. It progressed to a torrencial level in the afternoon with temperatures below zero. Rosie Nuklik knew better than going out in the weather. She didn’t have warm enough clothes and only one mitten as she lost one of her prized gloves her grandmother had made from seal skin. She buried her bare hand in her coat letting the miniature dog she held within, lick her hand. She knew the man would not meet her as he requested but she needed to see him. Standing next to the cement wall on the tunnel she prayed the cars would avoid hitting her. She was just trying to avoid the icy wind and blowing snow. Hiding, waiting, the big car came through the tunnel zipping way too fast. It spun on the ice, she tried to run the opposite direction but it thunked into her hip throwing her forward into the snow. The woman driver slowed but didn’t stop to help her. Rosie lay on the snow covered bank in pain hoping that aid would come. When she was sure she would freeze, a man came off the road and onto the embankment. Hoping he would send for an ambulance she relaxed; instead he reached in, stole her pup and beat her until she took her last breath.
Marie Russell instructed her students about whales from the small college in Montreal. She lived in a cottage on the outskirts of town. Detective Inspector Romeo Leduc lived in Quebec City. He was the boss and much of the time he was busy but of late he and his partner, Nicole were working cold cases trying to solve the murders of the past. Montreal however was in the throngs of a savage perpetrator attacking homeless Inuit people and leaving them to freeze in the night. Marie was beside herself. On their Saturday night date she would ask Romeo to lend a hand in solving the trouble. The Inuit small towns were located north of Quebec. Students were given scholarships to study in Montreal. People were traveling down with family for medical care as it was limited within the native settlements. It was too high a percentage that was being affected by this terrifying stranger.
The first book in this series was The Birds That Stay. I had not read this title so I was a bit discomforted by the French in the dialogue as well as the lack of information I had about the characters. That is to be expected when one book starts as the other concludes. It took me awhile but being an avid mystery buff, I adapted.
The Dogs of Winter by Ann Lambert was published today, October 20, 2020 by Second Story Press of Toronto, Ontario. Lambert’s readers should be sure to pick up this latest thriller. If you enjoy international mysteries you may want to read the first in the Russell/Leduc series first to catch you up on the storyline. Regardless, do enjoy.
September 23, 2020
Give yourself a few days to finish “The Dogs of Winter” because you will not want to put it down once you start. Ann Lambert has created the perfect sequel to “The Birds that Stay”. All of our favourite characters are back and fleshed out with more backstory to draw you even deeper into their lives. The novel paints a searing and compelling portrait of Montreal that captures all its hopes and heartaches, one that is immediately recognizable to those who love this beautiful and damaged city.
As much as it captures its setting perfectly, the novel at its heart is about those most vulnerable among us that we forget and discard. These people are victims and perpetrators alike. The novel makes it agonizingly clear that the paths these broken people travel would have been radically different had they only been shown love and tenderness a little more often in their lives.
“The Dogs of Winter” is also a story of redemption and heroism. Ordinary people, like Marie, offer empathy and a kind ear to those who desperately need it. Her determination and grit get the wheels of the justice system to lumber along. The principled detective Romeo fights systemic and societal inertia to relieve the suffering and save the lives of other, ordinary people.
Read the “The Dogs of Winter” because you will appreciate the power each of us has to do some good in this world. Read it to get an honest understanding of Montreal from someone who’s lived there her entire life. But perhaps above all, read it because it’s such a damn fine book.
As much as it captures its setting perfectly, the novel at its heart is about those most vulnerable among us that we forget and discard. These people are victims and perpetrators alike. The novel makes it agonizingly clear that the paths these broken people travel would have been radically different had they only been shown love and tenderness a little more often in their lives.
“The Dogs of Winter” is also a story of redemption and heroism. Ordinary people, like Marie, offer empathy and a kind ear to those who desperately need it. Her determination and grit get the wheels of the justice system to lumber along. The principled detective Romeo fights systemic and societal inertia to relieve the suffering and save the lives of other, ordinary people.
Read the “The Dogs of Winter” because you will appreciate the power each of us has to do some good in this world. Read it to get an honest understanding of Montreal from someone who’s lived there her entire life. But perhaps above all, read it because it’s such a damn fine book.
October 19, 2020
The Dogs of Winter is a complex, carefully plotted thriller, the best kind of mystery. While there are many characters, they are all so well described that you feel you know them. This satisfying story reads like a novel but a novel in which a crime takes place.
The reader is quickly introduced to the many diverse, seemingly unrelated characters. There are mature couple Professor Marie Russell and Romeo Leduc, district head of homicide for the Surete du Quebec. They are making tentative plans to take their relationship to the next level. Rosie Nukilik is an Inuit, now homeless in Quebec. Danielle Champagne is an Oprah like entrepreneur. Nia and Christian are a devoted couple, now homeless and Michaela Cruz is a brilliant student, about to attend a glamorous cocktail party. For nearly half of The Dogs of Winter, the characters orbit around their own compelling stories. Then Ann Lambert begins to skillfully weave them together towards exciting, if totally unexpected, conclusions.
The last character in this novel, although a silent one, is Quebec, both Province and City. Her problems are the same as many cities: the homeless, problems with the police, treatment of minorities, crime and sexual harassment. Lambert adds a Quebec background to all of these. This makes The Dogs of Winter a more compelling read. I can’t wait for the third in this series that reminds me so much of Louise Penny’s Three Pines/Gamache mysteries. 5 stars.
Thank you to NetGalley, Second Story Press and Ann Lambert for this ARC.
The reader is quickly introduced to the many diverse, seemingly unrelated characters. There are mature couple Professor Marie Russell and Romeo Leduc, district head of homicide for the Surete du Quebec. They are making tentative plans to take their relationship to the next level. Rosie Nukilik is an Inuit, now homeless in Quebec. Danielle Champagne is an Oprah like entrepreneur. Nia and Christian are a devoted couple, now homeless and Michaela Cruz is a brilliant student, about to attend a glamorous cocktail party. For nearly half of The Dogs of Winter, the characters orbit around their own compelling stories. Then Ann Lambert begins to skillfully weave them together towards exciting, if totally unexpected, conclusions.
The last character in this novel, although a silent one, is Quebec, both Province and City. Her problems are the same as many cities: the homeless, problems with the police, treatment of minorities, crime and sexual harassment. Lambert adds a Quebec background to all of these. This makes The Dogs of Winter a more compelling read. I can’t wait for the third in this series that reminds me so much of Louise Penny’s Three Pines/Gamache mysteries. 5 stars.
Thank you to NetGalley, Second Story Press and Ann Lambert for this ARC.
August 18, 2020
I received a copy of this novel from the publisher via NetGalley.
4.5* rounded up. I have not read the first in the series, but this stood well on its own. It is set in Montreal, a city I know reasonably well, and the sense of place and the descriptions of the neighbourhoods and the traffic and the weather were very evocative and accurate. It concerns the deaths of a number of the homeless community in downtown Montreal, some Inuit, others not, and also the rape of a young woman. There are a lot of characters introduced at the beginning. I read this more or less in one sitting, which helped with keeping track of who everyone was, and by the end they were mostly all connected.
The plotting was good and I liked the writing, which gave a good sense of Montreal's bi-lingualism. I'm deducting half a star for the places where the author rather obviously lectured the reader about the problems of the Inuit, or the frequency of assaults on women for example. She did such an excellent job for most of the novel demonstrating the practical effects of these issues through the plot or through realistic conversations between the characters, but every now and then there would be a paragraph or two of background information just inserted in, or one character would sit another down and unsubtly explain something at great length.
Nevertheless, highly recommended.
4.5* rounded up. I have not read the first in the series, but this stood well on its own. It is set in Montreal, a city I know reasonably well, and the sense of place and the descriptions of the neighbourhoods and the traffic and the weather were very evocative and accurate. It concerns the deaths of a number of the homeless community in downtown Montreal, some Inuit, others not, and also the rape of a young woman. There are a lot of characters introduced at the beginning. I read this more or less in one sitting, which helped with keeping track of who everyone was, and by the end they were mostly all connected.
The plotting was good and I liked the writing, which gave a good sense of Montreal's bi-lingualism. I'm deducting half a star for the places where the author rather obviously lectured the reader about the problems of the Inuit, or the frequency of assaults on women for example. She did such an excellent job for most of the novel demonstrating the practical effects of these issues through the plot or through realistic conversations between the characters, but every now and then there would be a paragraph or two of background information just inserted in, or one character would sit another down and unsubtly explain something at great length.
Nevertheless, highly recommended.
October 22, 2020
I am from Montreal (and I live in Westmount, minutes away from where most of The Dogs of Winter takes place).
I have read Ann Lambert's first book in The Russel and Leduc series, The Birds That Stay.
I was so happy to receive a copy of The Dogs of Winter from #netgalley to review.
After finishing the book, I have the following comments:
I really ENJOYED all of Lambert's characters, "AGAIN"; Romeo (SQ officer) & his entourage, Marie (Dawson Professor) & her entourage, Ti-Coune and Helene Cousineau, Officer Nicole Laframboise, Steve Pouliot (SPVM). I believe this covers most of the cast.
I LOVED reading this book set in #Montreal, as well as in the #Laurentians, (St. Jerome, Sainte Lucie, Saint Agathe) . Lambert has thrown everything I love about Montreal into this book, up to and including #bagels, hockey and life in a city with #snow to deal with (actually, that last thing I do NOT "LOVE").
The only small issue, that was "mildly" troublesome (for me), was that (IMO), there was a little too much background information provided in a couple of instances, But it did not detract from my enjoyment of the book.
This is a great book, and I will continue to read more in the Russel and Leduc series, as quickly as Ann Lambert can write them.
Thank you #nergalley, @secondstorypress, and Ann Lambert for gifting me #thedogsofwinter in return for my review.
I have read Ann Lambert's first book in The Russel and Leduc series, The Birds That Stay.
I was so happy to receive a copy of The Dogs of Winter from #netgalley to review.
After finishing the book, I have the following comments:
I really ENJOYED all of Lambert's characters, "AGAIN"; Romeo (SQ officer) & his entourage, Marie (Dawson Professor) & her entourage, Ti-Coune and Helene Cousineau, Officer Nicole Laframboise, Steve Pouliot (SPVM). I believe this covers most of the cast.
I LOVED reading this book set in #Montreal, as well as in the #Laurentians, (St. Jerome, Sainte Lucie, Saint Agathe) . Lambert has thrown everything I love about Montreal into this book, up to and including #bagels, hockey and life in a city with #snow to deal with (actually, that last thing I do NOT "LOVE").
The only small issue, that was "mildly" troublesome (for me), was that (IMO), there was a little too much background information provided in a couple of instances, But it did not detract from my enjoyment of the book.
This is a great book, and I will continue to read more in the Russel and Leduc series, as quickly as Ann Lambert can write them.
Thank you #nergalley, @secondstorypress, and Ann Lambert for gifting me #thedogsofwinter in return for my review.
November 28, 2020
This sequel to The Birds That Stay does not disappoint, I hope this series continues.
In the midst of a massive blizzard in Montreal, a young homeless woman is found in the snow, the victim of a hit and run.
There are also disturbing signs on the body that she may have been murdered after she was hit.
In her pocket is a photo with the phone number of Detective Inspector Romeo Leduc on it.
Romeo and his older girlfriend Marie, a retired marine biologist who now teaches, are learning about each other as their relationship moves forward and becomes more serious.
When several more homeless people are found dead, it appears someone is targeting the most defenseless.
Romeo's investigation is hindered at every turn by the community's indifferent and unenlightened attitudes.
An intelligently written atmospheric mystery/thriller that includes relevant issues of indigenous women and the homeless, how vulnerable they are and the hardships they endure.
It also has a mature love story that I appreciated.
The plot was complex and featured many diverse characters.
A thoughtul and gripping story.
Thank you Second Story Press for the e-ARC via NetGalley.
4,5 stars, rounded down to 4 stars.
In the midst of a massive blizzard in Montreal, a young homeless woman is found in the snow, the victim of a hit and run.
There are also disturbing signs on the body that she may have been murdered after she was hit.
In her pocket is a photo with the phone number of Detective Inspector Romeo Leduc on it.
Romeo and his older girlfriend Marie, a retired marine biologist who now teaches, are learning about each other as their relationship moves forward and becomes more serious.
When several more homeless people are found dead, it appears someone is targeting the most defenseless.
Romeo's investigation is hindered at every turn by the community's indifferent and unenlightened attitudes.
An intelligently written atmospheric mystery/thriller that includes relevant issues of indigenous women and the homeless, how vulnerable they are and the hardships they endure.
It also has a mature love story that I appreciated.
The plot was complex and featured many diverse characters.
A thoughtul and gripping story.
Thank you Second Story Press for the e-ARC via NetGalley.
4,5 stars, rounded down to 4 stars.
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