Speaking from Among the Bones by Alan Bradley

Something about Flavia de Luce has rekindled my interest in chemistry. I had been put off by the advanced chemistry classes--too many mols maybe. These mysteries have been an absolute pleasure, though, with their doses of science and history.

There have been so many little tidbits I have picked up from Flavia's insatiable desire to know the truth. I even find myself researching the chemicals in more depth and remembering my own love of organic chemistry. Plus, spring has arrived, and I'm back outside with my beloved plants making new concoctions to throw people off at dinner. 

We are met this mystery with a plethora of amateur detectives who all believe they can solve the case of the extra person in a saint's grave. While I enjoy the addition of Adam Sowerby, archaeological botanist--what an excellent title--I could have lived without Miss Tanty. The mystery was really not all that compelling either.

It was Flavia's character that was the pull to keep reading this time. Her character was the most traditional I have seen Flavia. She is certainly mature for her age and incredibly smart, but Bradley has really found his stride writing in an 11-year-old mentality.  The way Flavia interacts with Bishop's Lacey around her this time felt more in line with a child. Her emotions were more present in her analytics making it seem realistic child genius instead of miraculous penmanship.

With that last sentence, I could not wait to pick up the next book. Seriously, how can you do that to a reader?