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An Elderly Lady is Up to No Good
Alternate cover edition of ISBN 9781641290111
Content:
- An elderly lady has accommodation problems
- An elderly lady on her travels
- An elderly lady seeks peace at Christmas time
- The antique dealer's death
- An elderly lady is faced with a difficult dilemma
Maud is an irascible 88-year-old Swedish woman with no family, no friends, and…no qualms about a little murder. This funny, irreverent story collection by Helene Tursten, author of the Irene Huss investigations, features two-never-before translated stories that will keep you laughing all the way to the retirement home.
Ever since her darling father’s untimely death when she was only eighteen, Maud has lived in the family’s spacious apartment in downtown Gothenburg rent-free, thanks to a minor clause in a hastily negotiated contract. That was how Maud learned that good things can come from tragedy. Now in her late eighties, Maud contents herself with traveling the world and surfing the net from the comfort of her father’s ancient armchair. It’s a solitary existence, but she likes it that way.
Over the course of her adventures—or misadventures—this little bold lady will handle a crisis with a local celebrity who has her eyes on Maud’s apartment, foil the engagement of her long-ago lover, and dispose of some pesky neighbors. But when the local authorities are called to investigate a murder in her apartment complex, will Maud be able to avoid suspicion, or will Detective Inspector Irene Huss see through her charade?
Content:
- An elderly lady has accommodation problems
- An elderly lady on her travels
- An elderly lady seeks peace at Christmas time
- The antique dealer's death
- An elderly lady is faced with a difficult dilemma
Maud is an irascible 88-year-old Swedish woman with no family, no friends, and…no qualms about a little murder. This funny, irreverent story collection by Helene Tursten, author of the Irene Huss investigations, features two-never-before translated stories that will keep you laughing all the way to the retirement home.
Ever since her darling father’s untimely death when she was only eighteen, Maud has lived in the family’s spacious apartment in downtown Gothenburg rent-free, thanks to a minor clause in a hastily negotiated contract. That was how Maud learned that good things can come from tragedy. Now in her late eighties, Maud contents herself with traveling the world and surfing the net from the comfort of her father’s ancient armchair. It’s a solitary existence, but she likes it that way.
Over the course of her adventures—or misadventures—this little bold lady will handle a crisis with a local celebrity who has her eyes on Maud’s apartment, foil the engagement of her long-ago lover, and dispose of some pesky neighbors. But when the local authorities are called to investigate a murder in her apartment complex, will Maud be able to avoid suspicion, or will Detective Inspector Irene Huss see through her charade?
3 pages, Audiobook
First published January 1, 2013
About the author
Helene Tursten
39 books856 followersHelene Tursten (born in Gothenburg in 1954) is a Swedish writer of crime fiction. The main character in her stories is Detective Inspector Irene Huss. Before becoming an author, Tursten worked as a nurse and then a dentist, but was forced to leave due to illness. During her illness she worked as a translator of medical articles.
Series:
* Irene Huss
Series:
* Irene Huss
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 5,343 reviews
July 28, 2024
You got me. Not only do I judge a book by its cover, but I also judge its title too. So when I saw An Elderly Lady is Up to No Good, I knew there's no way I could pass it up.
Maud is 88 years old and as spry and sharp as she's ever been. With no family or friends, she has to rely on herself to solve any problems that come up. But sometimes problems have a way of being unsolvable, unless you don't mind a little murder. And Maud certainly doesn't.
This book is a hoot and a half. With its tongue in cheek candor and unflinching directness, it portrays Maud going about murder as one would go about one's business. I have to say, this is such a refreshing change from all those serious murder mysteries trying to catch the criminal. I found myself cheering Maud on and hoping she doesn't get caught.
Obviously, this book doesn't take itself too seriously, and the reader shouldn't either. If you're able to suspend disbelief for a little while, this pocket-sized book should bring you a quick dose of joviality and delight. And now there's a second book, so I can't wait to see what else Maud is up to.
~~~~~~~~~~~~
See also, my thoughts on:
An Elderly Lady Must Not Be Crossed
~~~~~~~~~~~~
✧ Connect with me ✧ Instagram ✧
Maud is 88 years old and as spry and sharp as she's ever been. With no family or friends, she has to rely on herself to solve any problems that come up. But sometimes problems have a way of being unsolvable, unless you don't mind a little murder. And Maud certainly doesn't.
This book is a hoot and a half. With its tongue in cheek candor and unflinching directness, it portrays Maud going about murder as one would go about one's business. I have to say, this is such a refreshing change from all those serious murder mysteries trying to catch the criminal. I found myself cheering Maud on and hoping she doesn't get caught.
Obviously, this book doesn't take itself too seriously, and the reader shouldn't either. If you're able to suspend disbelief for a little while, this pocket-sized book should bring you a quick dose of joviality and delight. And now there's a second book, so I can't wait to see what else Maud is up to.
~~~~~~~~~~~~
See also, my thoughts on:
An Elderly Lady Must Not Be Crossed
~~~~~~~~~~~~
✧ Connect with me ✧ Instagram ✧
December 12, 2018
An Elderly Lady is Up to No Good by Helene Tursten, Marlaine Delargy (Translator) is a 2018 SOHO Crime publication.
Well, if you’ve had your fill of gooey, saccharine sweet holiday books or movies, then this collection of vignettes featuring Maud, an eighty-eight year old serial killer, will cure your holiday sugar rush.
To be completely honest, I didn’t do much homework when I borrowed this book from the library. One of my fine friends on Goodreads added this book to their TBR list and I thought it sounded like a cozy mystery, and the cover didn’t do a lot to dispel that theory, although the title should have given me pause. However, I was taken by surprise when it became blatantly obvious that Maud isn’t one of those nosy, but endearing amateur sleuths.
Nope, our Maud is a calculating killer, who slides under the radar of law enforcement with chilling regularity, until a certain Inspector comes along who might see through Maud’s innocent old lady persona. Will she beat the rap or has her luck finally run out?
“ Freedom, no idle chatter, and no problems. Idle chatter and problems were the worst things she could think of…”
This collection of vignettes/short stories had me in stitches. It is, of course, darkly humorous, but also very clever. ‘An Elderly Lady Seeks Peace at Christmas’, was the first short story the author wrote, featuring Maud, but it was just the beginning of Maud’s various travels and interventions.
Part of the fun is in the details. Maud thinks fast, makes unhesitant decisions, without raising any suspicions. Of course, these scenarios are highly implausible, but wickedly fun, all the same. The reader is given access to Maud’s inner thoughts and once more I am struck by how utterly fascinating it is to crawl inside the mind of a killer. One of the most effective aspects of these stories is waiting to see if Maude will make a mistake, if she will be found out or not, while simultaneously hoping to never find oneself in the crosshairs of a mad elderly woman!!
4 stars
Well, if you’ve had your fill of gooey, saccharine sweet holiday books or movies, then this collection of vignettes featuring Maud, an eighty-eight year old serial killer, will cure your holiday sugar rush.
To be completely honest, I didn’t do much homework when I borrowed this book from the library. One of my fine friends on Goodreads added this book to their TBR list and I thought it sounded like a cozy mystery, and the cover didn’t do a lot to dispel that theory, although the title should have given me pause. However, I was taken by surprise when it became blatantly obvious that Maud isn’t one of those nosy, but endearing amateur sleuths.
Nope, our Maud is a calculating killer, who slides under the radar of law enforcement with chilling regularity, until a certain Inspector comes along who might see through Maud’s innocent old lady persona. Will she beat the rap or has her luck finally run out?
“ Freedom, no idle chatter, and no problems. Idle chatter and problems were the worst things she could think of…”
This collection of vignettes/short stories had me in stitches. It is, of course, darkly humorous, but also very clever. ‘An Elderly Lady Seeks Peace at Christmas’, was the first short story the author wrote, featuring Maud, but it was just the beginning of Maud’s various travels and interventions.
Part of the fun is in the details. Maud thinks fast, makes unhesitant decisions, without raising any suspicions. Of course, these scenarios are highly implausible, but wickedly fun, all the same. The reader is given access to Maud’s inner thoughts and once more I am struck by how utterly fascinating it is to crawl inside the mind of a killer. One of the most effective aspects of these stories is waiting to see if Maude will make a mistake, if she will be found out or not, while simultaneously hoping to never find oneself in the crosshairs of a mad elderly woman!!
4 stars
January 23, 2019
Dear sweet little old Maude....what a clever, serial killer you are! Plus, you are not so sweet. If fact, you are quite grumpy and calculating. She’s not your grandmother folks (unless, of course your Granny is a killer).
Maude is an 88-year-old Swedish Woman with no family or friends. Who needs them? Not Maude! She quite happy to do things on her own. Make travel arrangements, go on vacation, murder someone, surf the internet, etc.
Everyone needs a hobby! Well, it appears that apart from traveling it appears that Maude's hobby is getting rid of those in her life who annoy her, an antique dealer, those who want her spacious apartment, those who want to marry a past love, annoying neighbors. But will she be able to get away with her antics? Will she ever get caught? Hmm..
This book is made up of short stories which show Maude interacting with several people. The reader gets to know Maude's thoughts, how she is fast on her feet, how she makes snap decisions and doesn't hesitate to act...errr...strike out, etc.
This was a fast and enjoyable read. For a serial killer, Maude is quite likable in a don't-turn-your-back-on-her-she-might-kill you sort of way. As the book is made up of short stories, it is easy to read one and go about your day and come back to the book later. Will Maude ever be caught? Read and find out!
Maude is an 88-year-old Swedish Woman with no family or friends. Who needs them? Not Maude! She quite happy to do things on her own. Make travel arrangements, go on vacation, murder someone, surf the internet, etc.
Everyone needs a hobby! Well, it appears that apart from traveling it appears that Maude's hobby is getting rid of those in her life who annoy her, an antique dealer, those who want her spacious apartment, those who want to marry a past love, annoying neighbors. But will she be able to get away with her antics? Will she ever get caught? Hmm..
This book is made up of short stories which show Maude interacting with several people. The reader gets to know Maude's thoughts, how she is fast on her feet, how she makes snap decisions and doesn't hesitate to act...errr...strike out, etc.
This was a fast and enjoyable read. For a serial killer, Maude is quite likable in a don't-turn-your-back-on-her-she-might-kill you sort of way. As the book is made up of short stories, it is easy to read one and go about your day and come back to the book later. Will Maude ever be caught? Read and find out!
September 25, 2023
Do you like old ladies?
Maybe more importantly do you like old ladies who just kill the shit out of anyone who causes them problems?
If you answered yes to both of those questions, then go ahead and grab this collection of short stories by Helene Tursten.
Maude is a mean old bitch.
Well, maybe not mean, but you had best leave her the hell alone. And don't even think about fucking with her knickknacks! She likes her life the way she likes her life, and god help anyone who squeaks out a derelict fart that upsets the delicate balance of her day.
She's finally managed to get her life ordered the way she wants. She has enough money to travel in the way she wants, to eat what she wants, and be left alone in her home the way she wants.
Maude does not play.
She will kill you...and then go take a nap.
This is a darkly funny bunch of short stories, told out of chronological order, and set in Sweden. The translation was excellent and the narration by Suzanne Toren was great.
This was one of those books that was recommended to me by a friend on Goodreads, and I'm glad I took the time to check it out.
Recommended!
Maybe more importantly do you like old ladies who just kill the shit out of anyone who causes them problems?
If you answered yes to both of those questions, then go ahead and grab this collection of short stories by Helene Tursten.
Maude is a mean old bitch.
Well, maybe not mean, but you had best leave her the hell alone. And don't even think about fucking with her knickknacks! She likes her life the way she likes her life, and god help anyone who squeaks out a derelict fart that upsets the delicate balance of her day.
She's finally managed to get her life ordered the way she wants. She has enough money to travel in the way she wants, to eat what she wants, and be left alone in her home the way she wants.
Maude does not play.
She will kill you...and then go take a nap.
This is a darkly funny bunch of short stories, told out of chronological order, and set in Sweden. The translation was excellent and the narration by Suzanne Toren was great.
This was one of those books that was recommended to me by a friend on Goodreads, and I'm glad I took the time to check it out.
Recommended!
December 7, 2021
Maud is an octogenarian, but she is nothing like our friends from The Thursday Murder Club. She is, in fact, a killer.
This is a collection of 5 amusing stories featuring 88-year old Maud and her murderous shenanigans. She doesn’t mean to kill. It’s just that Maud wants to live her life in peace, and if someone tries to disrupt that, she needs to eliminate them.
From a celebrity who moved into Maud’s apartment complex - and wants Maud’s unit, to a terrible neighbor, to a few other folks who mess with Maud’s peace...she’ll make them pay.
This is a fun and super-quick read. As terrible as it sounds, I was rooting for Maud in each story, and I think others will too. This was translated from Swedish, and luckily there’s no clunk in the translation. The only odd thing is that the stories aren’t presented in chronological order, and it’s easy to determine that with the first two.
I’m excited that there’s a 2nd collection of Maud’s mayhem, and I can’t wait to get my hands on it.
3.5 stars rounded up.
Review also posted at: https://bonkersforthebooks.wordpress.com
This is a collection of 5 amusing stories featuring 88-year old Maud and her murderous shenanigans. She doesn’t mean to kill. It’s just that Maud wants to live her life in peace, and if someone tries to disrupt that, she needs to eliminate them.
From a celebrity who moved into Maud’s apartment complex - and wants Maud’s unit, to a terrible neighbor, to a few other folks who mess with Maud’s peace...she’ll make them pay.
This is a fun and super-quick read. As terrible as it sounds, I was rooting for Maud in each story, and I think others will too. This was translated from Swedish, and luckily there’s no clunk in the translation. The only odd thing is that the stories aren’t presented in chronological order, and it’s easy to determine that with the first two.
I’m excited that there’s a 2nd collection of Maud’s mayhem, and I can’t wait to get my hands on it.
3.5 stars rounded up.
Review also posted at: https://bonkersforthebooks.wordpress.com
January 22, 2022
This one’s for the peeps that like a pinch of pepper in their chocolate chip cookies.
If I had a dollar for every book I’ve read about an elderly person that’s up to no good… I’d have a lot of dollars. The cast of the cozy coot canon, as I call it, just keeps growing, doesn’t it? We’ve got a 100-year-old man climbing out windows, a man called Ove being icy to his neighbors, and others like Harold Fry just wandering around the countryside.
But Helene Tursten’s short story collection kicks it up a notch by presenting readers with an old biddy named Maud who’s just not going to take it anymore. Her hijinks seem inspired by the fact that no one is as invisible as an elderly person. Who would suspect little ol’ octogenarian Maud of offing her neighbors?
At only 178 pages (or just over 3 hours for the audiobook), picking up this book, translated from Swedish, doesn’t require much commitment. I found all five stories enjoyable if not all that memorable. Maud’s murderous adventures continue in An Elderly Lady Must Not Be Crossed, but I’m undecided if I’ll follow her there. (Although I hear that book contains cookie recipes. I wonder if any include a little cayenne?)
3.5 stars
For those with the Hoopla library app, both of Maud’s story collections are available on audio.
Blog: https://www.confettibookshelf.com/
If I had a dollar for every book I’ve read about an elderly person that’s up to no good… I’d have a lot of dollars. The cast of the cozy coot canon, as I call it, just keeps growing, doesn’t it? We’ve got a 100-year-old man climbing out windows, a man called Ove being icy to his neighbors, and others like Harold Fry just wandering around the countryside.
But Helene Tursten’s short story collection kicks it up a notch by presenting readers with an old biddy named Maud who’s just not going to take it anymore. Her hijinks seem inspired by the fact that no one is as invisible as an elderly person. Who would suspect little ol’ octogenarian Maud of offing her neighbors?
At only 178 pages (or just over 3 hours for the audiobook), picking up this book, translated from Swedish, doesn’t require much commitment. I found all five stories enjoyable if not all that memorable. Maud’s murderous adventures continue in An Elderly Lady Must Not Be Crossed, but I’m undecided if I’ll follow her there. (Although I hear that book contains cookie recipes. I wonder if any include a little cayenne?)
3.5 stars
For those with the Hoopla library app, both of Maud’s story collections are available on audio.
Blog: https://www.confettibookshelf.com/
December 12, 2018
3.5 Meet Maude. She is not your stereotypical elderly lady. Definitely not the kind that distresses one when in a hurry and the car that is doing ten or more miles under the speed limit is driven by a littleold lady who can barely see over the steering wheel. Nor the one in the grocery checkout counting out her exact change one coin at a time, while we not so patiently wait for them to finish. Yes Maude is in her later eighties, lives in a large apartment where she is legally entitled to spend her life, rent free, and has a great many pieces of old furniture and other valuables that she occasionally sells to finance her many trips to places near and far. But Maude is even more than this, she is capable of behaving very badly to those who try to take advantage of her because of her age, to their own detriment. You see, Maude is not an elderly woman it is wise to cross.
Enjoyed these shorts, all featuring Maude getting out of situations in a very unladylike manner. Though I did like the first three more than the last two connecting ones. There was something in the last part that I found unbelievable, didn't think s woman of this advanced age could manage this fest, but then again who knows. Have read this authors, Irene Huss series for years, set in Sweden as is this one. Irene even makes an appearance as an investigator here, as poor Maude finds a dead body in her apartment. Right! I do hope Tursten makes more use of Maude in other books. Quite a fun read though I suppose it depends you are standing on. Or not.
ARC from Edelweiss.
Enjoyed these shorts, all featuring Maude getting out of situations in a very unladylike manner. Though I did like the first three more than the last two connecting ones. There was something in the last part that I found unbelievable, didn't think s woman of this advanced age could manage this fest, but then again who knows. Have read this authors, Irene Huss series for years, set in Sweden as is this one. Irene even makes an appearance as an investigator here, as poor Maude finds a dead body in her apartment. Right! I do hope Tursten makes more use of Maude in other books. Quite a fun read though I suppose it depends you are standing on. Or not.
ARC from Edelweiss.
March 3, 2023
Wow! What an original character! Maud will put a smile on your face even as you feel a shiver down your spine! The elderly are so often 'invisibalized' by society; the perfect cover for a serial killer! A truly original character that I will look forward to reading more about in the future!
June 30, 2022
I never thought I'd say that I enjoyed a book about a lethal killer so much. But I actually did! Octogenarian Maud is one of the most unique fictional (I certainly hope!) characters I've come across in a long time. Smart as a whip , no-nonsense Maud finds solutions to her "problems" by disposing of them , literally and with no help needed whatsoever.
An Elderly Lady Is Up To No Good by Helene Tursten(translated by Marlaine Delargy) is a fun read that keeps you engaged throughout. Five short stories detailing Maud's (mis)adventures kept me riveted with its tongue-in-cheek humor and no frills storytelling.
Needless to say, I need to read the next book in the series as soon as I can get my hands on it because I can't wait to find out what Maud does next! Thanks so much Kat(Books are Comfort Food) for putting this on my radar!
An Elderly Lady Is Up To No Good by Helene Tursten(translated by Marlaine Delargy) is a fun read that keeps you engaged throughout. Five short stories detailing Maud's (mis)adventures kept me riveted with its tongue-in-cheek humor and no frills storytelling.
Needless to say, I need to read the next book in the series as soon as I can get my hands on it because I can't wait to find out what Maud does next! Thanks so much Kat(Books are Comfort Food) for putting this on my radar!
December 15, 2021
Did you ever send or receive a Hallmark card featuring the cranky cartoon character “Maxine”?
Well, if enjoyed the humor of those greeting cards, you will also enjoy the short stories in this collection, which feature Maud, a cantankerous Octogenarian living in Sweden.
Maud doesn’t like it when you try to take what’s hers, or when you disturb her peaceful life, and she simply won’t put up with it. She will do do anything and everything she needs to-to keep the status-quo-up to and including Murder.
And, you won’t mind that a bit!
MOST people underestimate her, because of her walking canes and seated walkers-useful props when you are “an elderly lady up to no good”…
But, although the last story in this collection literally ends with a smile, all I could picture was Maud winking at me! 😉
Well done, Maud!
I am looking forward to seeing what Maud is up to next in “An Elderly Lady Must Not Be Crossed”.
These collections began when the author, Helene Tursten, was asked by one of the biggest Publishers in Sweden, to write a story for a Christmas Anthology 🎄 and that story ended up being “An Elderly Lady Seeks Peace At Christmas Time” (Included in this book).
She wasn’t ready to say goodbye to the character, so Maud’s “problems” continue….and each collection can be read in one sitting, or each story can be read independently, when the mood suits.
Well, if enjoyed the humor of those greeting cards, you will also enjoy the short stories in this collection, which feature Maud, a cantankerous Octogenarian living in Sweden.
Maud doesn’t like it when you try to take what’s hers, or when you disturb her peaceful life, and she simply won’t put up with it. She will do do anything and everything she needs to-to keep the status-quo-up to and including Murder.
And, you won’t mind that a bit!
MOST people underestimate her, because of her walking canes and seated walkers-useful props when you are “an elderly lady up to no good”…
But, although the last story in this collection literally ends with a smile, all I could picture was Maud winking at me! 😉
Well done, Maud!
I am looking forward to seeing what Maud is up to next in “An Elderly Lady Must Not Be Crossed”.
These collections began when the author, Helene Tursten, was asked by one of the biggest Publishers in Sweden, to write a story for a Christmas Anthology 🎄 and that story ended up being “An Elderly Lady Seeks Peace At Christmas Time” (Included in this book).
She wasn’t ready to say goodbye to the character, so Maud’s “problems” continue….and each collection can be read in one sitting, or each story can be read independently, when the mood suits.
September 3, 2022
Resourceful. Intuitive. Discerning. Sharp. All words one might use to describe Maud. All positive attributes, you might say. But Maud also has a darker side. She can be cunning, devious, and coldhearted to "certain individuals". Whenever a dilemma pops up, Maud contemplates the problem at hand, and arrives at a perfectly wily solution. A fun read to entertain one’s latent maniacal tendencies. There’s no rest for the wicked when revenge is so sweet!
January 5, 2022
My son just tested positive for COVID, my first book of 2022 was a total dud, and my dog came running in the house this morning where she delivered a decomposing rodent in the middle of my living room floor. I know it's only January 5th but 2022 is sucking already.
Until this morning, when I had the pleasure of meeting Maud. This feisty 88 year old may look like a fragile old granny but don't let her appearance fool you. She's not only fit as a fiddle but she has all of her wits about her which really works in her favor when people annoy her. See, our dear Maud does not like to be trifled with and she is more than happy to take things into her own hands to even the score. You go, Maud!
This was a hoot and a delight to read. I had been seeing all the positive reviews and this book is worthy of every one of them. Tursten came up with 5 different yet interconnected stories of Maud's ..ahem...adventures, if you will, and I enjoyed all of them. I already can't wait to see what shenanigans Maud gets up to in An Elderly Lady Must Not Be Crossed. If you're looking for something to lift your spirits then I would highly recommend this book. 4 stars!
Thanks to Overdrive for my copy!
Until this morning, when I had the pleasure of meeting Maud. This feisty 88 year old may look like a fragile old granny but don't let her appearance fool you. She's not only fit as a fiddle but she has all of her wits about her which really works in her favor when people annoy her. See, our dear Maud does not like to be trifled with and she is more than happy to take things into her own hands to even the score. You go, Maud!
This was a hoot and a delight to read. I had been seeing all the positive reviews and this book is worthy of every one of them. Tursten came up with 5 different yet interconnected stories of Maud's ..ahem...adventures, if you will, and I enjoyed all of them. I already can't wait to see what shenanigans Maud gets up to in An Elderly Lady Must Not Be Crossed. If you're looking for something to lift your spirits then I would highly recommend this book. 4 stars!
Thanks to Overdrive for my copy!
June 19, 2020
EXCERPT: The champagne was a really expensive brand - Champagne de Pompadour. When Maud looked it up on the internet, she saw it cost 549 kroner at the state-owned liquor store. Ridiculous! Admittedly, Maud enjoyed the odd glass of genuine champagne from time to time, but she was happy with brands that cost less than half that amount. The little tin of Russian caviar was also the real deal and probably cost as much as the champagne. Maud seriously doubted whether the other residents of the apartment block had been offered such expensive delicacies at Jasmin's housewarming party, which led her to conclude that Jasmin was trying to get into her good books. But why? perhaps she was lonely and looking for friendship? Maud was an old woman, a good forty-five years older than the social butterfly, with artistic ambitions; they had nothing whatsoever in common.What did she want? Was she looking for a surrogate grandmother?
ABOUT THIS BOOK: Content:
- An elderly lady has accommodation problems
- An elderly lady on her travels
- An elderly lady seeks peace at Christmas time
- The antique dealer's death
- An elderly lady is faced with a difficult dilemma
Maud is an irascible 88-year-old Swedish woman with no family, no friends, and…no qualms about a little murder. This funny, irreverent story collection by Helene Tursten, author of the Irene Huss investigations, features two-never-before translated stories that will keep you laughing all the way to the retirement home.
Ever since her darling father’s untimely death when she was only eighteen, Maud has lived in the family’s spacious apartment in downtown Gothenburg rent-free, thanks to a minor clause in a hastily negotiated contract. That was how Maud learned that good things can come from tragedy. Now in her late eighties, Maud contents herself with traveling the world and surfing the net from the comfort of her father’s ancient armchair. It’s a solitary existence, but she likes it that way.
Over the course of her adventures—or misadventures—this little bold lady will handle a crisis with a local celebrity who has her eyes on Maud’s apartment, foil the engagement of her long-ago lover, and dispose of some pesky neighbors. But when the local authorities are called to investigate a murder in her apartment complex, will Maud be able to avoid suspicion, or will Detective Inspector Irene Huss see through her charade?
MY THOUGHTS: Thank you to my Goodreads friend Debra, who recommended this read to me. Maud is, as the Americans say, 'a piece of work.' An elderly lady, she spent the younger part of her life, after being disappointed in love, being the provider for her mother and sister following the death of her beloved father. Now Maud's life is her own, and God help anyone who gets in her way!
Consisting of five short stories, we follow the fortunes of Maud as she ages, and the ill fortune of those who try to best her. Darkly amusing.
****
THE AUTHOR: Helene Tursten (born in Gothenburg in 1954) is a Swedish writer of crime fiction. The main character in her stories is Detective Inspector Irene Huss. Before becoming an author, Tursten worked as a nurse and then a dentist, but was forced to leave due to illness. During her illness she worked as a translator of medical articles.
DISCLOSURE: I listened to the audiobook of An elderly Lady is Up to No Good, written by Helene Turston, translated by Marlene Delargy, narrated by Suzanne Toren and published by Highbridge, a division of Recorded Books. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own personal opinions.
For an explanation of my rating system, please refer to my Goodreads.com profile page or the 'about' page on sandysbookaday.wordpress.com
This review is also published on Twitter, Instagram and my webpage.
ABOUT THIS BOOK: Content:
- An elderly lady has accommodation problems
- An elderly lady on her travels
- An elderly lady seeks peace at Christmas time
- The antique dealer's death
- An elderly lady is faced with a difficult dilemma
Maud is an irascible 88-year-old Swedish woman with no family, no friends, and…no qualms about a little murder. This funny, irreverent story collection by Helene Tursten, author of the Irene Huss investigations, features two-never-before translated stories that will keep you laughing all the way to the retirement home.
Ever since her darling father’s untimely death when she was only eighteen, Maud has lived in the family’s spacious apartment in downtown Gothenburg rent-free, thanks to a minor clause in a hastily negotiated contract. That was how Maud learned that good things can come from tragedy. Now in her late eighties, Maud contents herself with traveling the world and surfing the net from the comfort of her father’s ancient armchair. It’s a solitary existence, but she likes it that way.
Over the course of her adventures—or misadventures—this little bold lady will handle a crisis with a local celebrity who has her eyes on Maud’s apartment, foil the engagement of her long-ago lover, and dispose of some pesky neighbors. But when the local authorities are called to investigate a murder in her apartment complex, will Maud be able to avoid suspicion, or will Detective Inspector Irene Huss see through her charade?
MY THOUGHTS: Thank you to my Goodreads friend Debra, who recommended this read to me. Maud is, as the Americans say, 'a piece of work.' An elderly lady, she spent the younger part of her life, after being disappointed in love, being the provider for her mother and sister following the death of her beloved father. Now Maud's life is her own, and God help anyone who gets in her way!
Consisting of five short stories, we follow the fortunes of Maud as she ages, and the ill fortune of those who try to best her. Darkly amusing.
****
THE AUTHOR: Helene Tursten (born in Gothenburg in 1954) is a Swedish writer of crime fiction. The main character in her stories is Detective Inspector Irene Huss. Before becoming an author, Tursten worked as a nurse and then a dentist, but was forced to leave due to illness. During her illness she worked as a translator of medical articles.
DISCLOSURE: I listened to the audiobook of An elderly Lady is Up to No Good, written by Helene Turston, translated by Marlene Delargy, narrated by Suzanne Toren and published by Highbridge, a division of Recorded Books. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own personal opinions.
For an explanation of my rating system, please refer to my Goodreads.com profile page or the 'about' page on sandysbookaday.wordpress.com
This review is also published on Twitter, Instagram and my webpage.
March 14, 2022
Due to a decades old clause in a real estate contract, 88-year-old Maud lives rent-free in her family's large ancestral apartment in Gothenberg, Sweden.
Maud values her privacy, likes to travel, and knows how to look out for herself.
You might observe Maud shuffling down the street with her walker, speaking in a quavering voice, and seeming befuddled, but don't be fooled. This is an act Maud puts on to dupe the public, so when Maud murders someone - which she feels compelled to do on occasion - Maud isn't even considered a suspect.
The book contains five stories about Maud, each of which demonstrates her cleverness, planning ability, and attention to detail.
🥀- An elderly lady has accommodation problems.
Maud's new neighbor is Jasmin Schimmerhof, a hippy-dippy fortyish artist who specializes in phallic sculptures.
Jasmin, whose small apartment doubles as her studio, seems to be angling to trade apartments with Maud. Maud fears Jasmin might collude with the building management to achieve her goal, so the elderly woman takes measures.
🥀- An elderly lady on her travels.
When Maud was 18, she was happily engaged to young Lt. Gustaf Adelsiöö, whose parents allowed the betrothal because they thought Maud was an heiress. The death of Maud's father revealed the family was bankrupt, and Adelsiöö broke the engagement. Now, Maud learns that nonagenarian Adelsiöö is engaged to a much younger woman named Zazza, who was a porn star. Maud has bad feelings about the union, so she arranges to stay at the same spa as the 'happy couple' to check things out.
🥀- An elderly lady seeks peace at Christmas time.
Maud gets new neighbors in the apartment above hers, and is repeatedly disturbed by sounds of the husband berating and beating his wide. When this happens on Christmas day, which Maud plans to celebrate with a quiet holiday meal, it's the last straw.
🥀- The antique dealer's death.
Maud's apartment contains expensive paintings as well as antique silverware and antique furniture. Maud has been selling these items off little by little, to finance her trips. Now Maud wants to take a VERY LUXURIOUS vacation in South Africa, and makes arrangements to sell silver candelabras and the like to a local antiques dealer.
Maud gets a bad feeling about the dealer's honesty (or lack thereof) and you can guess what happens next.
🥀- An elderly lady is faced with a difficult dilemma.
The antiques dealer's death leads to an investigation by the police, who - for once - actually consider Maud a suspect.
The detectives try to reconstruct the crime with Maud in mind. Has Maud been clever enough to fool them?
Maud is a fun character you can't help rooting for, and the book would appeal to readers who want something light and amusing.
You can follow my reviews at https://reviewsbybarbsaffer.blogspot.com
January 19, 2019
A little book (literally) that packs a punch (figuratively)because Maud is not your typical 88 year old lady. When she sees a problem, she fixes it by getting rid of the source. It turns out that being old is a great disguise for a murderer.
3.5 stars rounded up for a great character. I hope we get more of these stories, the first five just whetted my appetite.
3.5 stars rounded up for a great character. I hope we get more of these stories, the first five just whetted my appetite.
December 8, 2021
Maude is nothing like my elderly mom, but I love her all the same. I love the way she solves her problems. Not only did I get a good chuckle, it was fun watching the wheels in Maude’s head turn for her next escapade, errr murder. This book is well-written and contains 5 stories about Maude and her antics. I wanted more. So clever. Many thanks to Michael David for putting this one on my list.🤗
November 27, 2023
To be completely honest, I didn’t do much homework when I borrowed this book from the library.
Maud isn’t one of those nosy, but endearing amateur sleuths.
Nope, our Maud is a calculating killer, who slides under the radar of law enforcement with chilling regularity, until a certain Inspector comes along who might see through Maud’s innocent old lady persona.
Will she beat the rap or has her luck finally run out?
This collection of vignettes/short stories had me in stitches.
It is, of course, darkly humorous, but also very clever.
Maud isn’t one of those nosy, but endearing amateur sleuths.
Nope, our Maud is a calculating killer, who slides under the radar of law enforcement with chilling regularity, until a certain Inspector comes along who might see through Maud’s innocent old lady persona.
Will she beat the rap or has her luck finally run out?
This collection of vignettes/short stories had me in stitches.
It is, of course, darkly humorous, but also very clever.
June 13, 2019
Swedish author Helen Tursten is best known for her series of mysteries about Inspector Irene Huss (made into a series of films for Swedish TV), but, when she was asked to contribute to a Christmas anthology, she decided to write about a serial killer instead, a serial killer who happens to be an “elderly lady,”
Tursten’s heroine Maud is not a blood-thirsty monster, driven by bloodlust or malice. No, she is merely a stone-cold but reasonable sociopath. She believes in live-let-live, but, when somebody interferes with her contentment or self-interest, you can be sure they will be quickly—and efficiently—removed.
Maud encounters, and then disposes of, various irritating types: a spoiled wealthy woman artist who wants Maud’s apartment for her studio (“An Elderly Lady Has Accommodation Problems”), the disagreeable, gold-digging wife of a former beau (“An Elderly Lady on Her Travels”), an alcoholic attorney who beats his wife and disrupts Maud’s peace with his tirades (“An Elderly Lady Seeks Peace at Christmastime”), and a thieving antique dealer who targets her silver and paintings (“The Antique Dealer’s Death” and “An Elderly Lady is Faced with a Difficult Dilemma”).
Of the five stories included here, the first three are superior to the others. In the last two, which tell the same tale from different perspectives, Inspector Huss appears as a superflous guest star, which distracts attraction from the more interesting Maud, Besides, the cover-up of the antique dealer’s murder is much too elaborate, wearying the reader’s attention with Maud’s meticulous plans.
The most fascinating thing about these stories—particularly to an old guy like myself—is the way Maud treats the perceived problems of old age. Although she is a sociopath, unlike the U.S.A.’s current president, she is no preening narcissist. Consequently, no idle vanity prevents her from profiting from the elderly’s supposed weaknesses. She carries an unnecessary cane (as a weapon), uses a walker (to conceal still other weapons), and then feigns deafness and confusion to cover her tracks. Above all, she takes advantage of the elderly’s cultural lack of importance. She thrives on invisibility, exults in not being seen.
March 31, 2023
An old lady at the end of her eighties, the words « up to no good » in the title and you diving into this thinking it was going to be about an old uptight lady and her funny moments.
I did not remember what the story was about since I put it on my TBR and picked it up yesterday. I wanted something light and fun, it was not at all what I was expecting but exactly what I needed. I was right about it being fun, but I did not imagine the MC, to be so « protective » of her peace.
Dont be fooled by Maud, she might be old but she sure knows how handle herself. Dont annoy her and you’ll be fine, some people tried and as you will find out, it did not end well for them. Of course, she probably dont have the best way of dealing with inconveniences but at least her way is permanent! She’s an old lady, she doesnt have time for this crap. (Just kidding 👀) I have to admit I liked her and I wanted her to get away with it.. will she? You’ll have to read the book to find out.
The book is made of five stories. Took me about 3hours to finish and I really enjoyed it. It is not your usual crime story so take it lightly, you’ll enjoy it too. Im glad to know there is another story with Maud, I am not quite ready to say goodbye to her yet.
I did not remember what the story was about since I put it on my TBR and picked it up yesterday. I wanted something light and fun, it was not at all what I was expecting but exactly what I needed. I was right about it being fun, but I did not imagine the MC, to be so « protective » of her peace.
Dont be fooled by Maud, she might be old but she sure knows how handle herself. Dont annoy her and you’ll be fine, some people tried and as you will find out, it did not end well for them. Of course, she probably dont have the best way of dealing with inconveniences but at least her way is permanent! She’s an old lady, she doesnt have time for this crap. (Just kidding 👀) I have to admit I liked her and I wanted her to get away with it.. will she? You’ll have to read the book to find out.
The book is made of five stories. Took me about 3hours to finish and I really enjoyed it. It is not your usual crime story so take it lightly, you’ll enjoy it too. Im glad to know there is another story with Maud, I am not quite ready to say goodbye to her yet.
February 25, 2021
I wanted a short audio story because I was in the mood. Immediately, I was attracted to the title “An Elderly Lady is Up to No Good” by Helene Tursten. I do enjoy Turnsten as an author, and that title….seriously…the title is irresistible!
I’m not giving anything away by saying it’s a series of short stories about a murderous old lady, Maud. I didn’t know going in that Maud is a murderess, as I didn’t read the title highlights, I just loved the title, and it’s free on Audible Plus. What’s to lose?
I loved it! One reason is that I’m conflicted as to whether I applaud Maud, or if I think she’s an evil genius. The beauty of the stories is that Maud is nearly 90 years old, and her mind…so diabolical. I’m not going to go into the stories because just the premise is enough to say that the stories were fun, in a dastardly way.
This fun listen is narrated by Suzanne Toren and she performs beautifully. It’s a little over three hours, and I loved every second of it. Again, I have conflicted feelings about this beautifully wicked woman.
I’m not giving anything away by saying it’s a series of short stories about a murderous old lady, Maud. I didn’t know going in that Maud is a murderess, as I didn’t read the title highlights, I just loved the title, and it’s free on Audible Plus. What’s to lose?
I loved it! One reason is that I’m conflicted as to whether I applaud Maud, or if I think she’s an evil genius. The beauty of the stories is that Maud is nearly 90 years old, and her mind…so diabolical. I’m not going to go into the stories because just the premise is enough to say that the stories were fun, in a dastardly way.
This fun listen is narrated by Suzanne Toren and she performs beautifully. It’s a little over three hours, and I loved every second of it. Again, I have conflicted feelings about this beautifully wicked woman.
August 24, 2020
I love feisty old people and Maud (the elderly lady of this book) certainly fits the description.
She is not one of those depressing seniors just awaiting death (at least not her own death). You might say she gets things done, not legally but with great satisfaction to herself and to the reader.
This is a funny and entertaining collection of vignettes that deal with murder and revenge. Reading it was like eating the sorbet between courses; it cleaned my reading palette and prepared me to appreciate my next book.
She is not one of those depressing seniors just awaiting death (at least not her own death). You might say she gets things done, not legally but with great satisfaction to herself and to the reader.
This is a funny and entertaining collection of vignettes that deal with murder and revenge. Reading it was like eating the sorbet between courses; it cleaned my reading palette and prepared me to appreciate my next book.
September 16, 2019
What is the deal with these curmudgeonly, geriatric Swedes? This one takes her ire to a new level, but I just didn’t find enough of the promised hilarity to make it worthwhile. Others have loved, so maybe I’m turning into a crotchety Cuban heading for a murderous streak in a few decades.
June 4, 2023
3.75 stars rounded up
The story follows Maud, an elderly lady in her late eighties. She lives alone in Sweden and seems to enjoy life and seize the opportunities that it offers.
She has a contentious character.
Maud is flawed but at the same time charming. In certain circumstances, she seems to have a kind heart. She can be compassionate towards strangers. However, Maud can treat mercilessly those she disapproves of for one reason or another. And by saying "mercilessly" I am not exaggerating. Knowing the modus operandi of this old lady, I would not want to cross paths with her.
The story follows Maud, an elderly lady in her late eighties. She lives alone in Sweden and seems to enjoy life and seize the opportunities that it offers.
She has a contentious character.
Maud is flawed but at the same time charming. In certain circumstances, she seems to have a kind heart. She can be compassionate towards strangers. However, Maud can treat mercilessly those she disapproves of for one reason or another. And by saying "mercilessly" I am not exaggerating. Knowing the modus operandi of this old lady, I would not want to cross paths with her.
March 31, 2019
This basically makes me want to write fan fic where Maud visits St. Mary Mead in 1935 and shit gets real. Savage old lady mortal combat
February 15, 2023
This collection of short stories was a nope for me. I could not “connect” with the main character. Too cold blooded for me. Weirdly calculating. Could not find her humanity.
“But she is a murderer Sarah,” you say to me, “is that not just part and parcel to a murderous personality?”
Well, perhaps. But I am looking to read about a protagonist who shows me something redeemable about humanity.
I can see you looking at me funny.
What is redeemable about a murderer?
Nothing! That is why my pretend murderer has to be somehow kind, or funny, showing why all of us are driven to distraction by mean people ~ showing me some larger truth about humans in general.
I don’t want to read about a selfish, mean, calculating old lady who kills people who get in the way of her peace and quiet. I can get that attitude any time in the real world.
“But she is a murderer Sarah,” you say to me, “is that not just part and parcel to a murderous personality?”
Well, perhaps. But I am looking to read about a protagonist who shows me something redeemable about humanity.
I can see you looking at me funny.
What is redeemable about a murderer?
Nothing! That is why my pretend murderer has to be somehow kind, or funny, showing why all of us are driven to distraction by mean people ~ showing me some larger truth about humans in general.
I don’t want to read about a selfish, mean, calculating old lady who kills people who get in the way of her peace and quiet. I can get that attitude any time in the real world.
January 29, 2022
Beware of the nice old lady!
Maud is an eighty-eight year old Swedish woman without any family or friends. She lives alone rent free in an apartment building and enjoys vacationing and spa trips.
She won’t be fooled and no one takes advantage of her.
Watch your back because little old Maud is dangerous!
I listened to this audiobook which is translated from Swedish. It contains five short stories about Maud’s adventures. The narration was pleasant to listen to when the playback is sped up. It is a quick read at just over three hours long.
I enjoyed Maud’s adventures, but each story contained the same plot elements. Little old lady takes revenge on those who wronged her. Somehow she manages to play dumb each time and get away with murder.
This is a fun collection of short stories, but unfortunately it did not wow me.
3/5 stars
Maud is an eighty-eight year old Swedish woman without any family or friends. She lives alone rent free in an apartment building and enjoys vacationing and spa trips.
She won’t be fooled and no one takes advantage of her.
Watch your back because little old Maud is dangerous!
I listened to this audiobook which is translated from Swedish. It contains five short stories about Maud’s adventures. The narration was pleasant to listen to when the playback is sped up. It is a quick read at just over three hours long.
I enjoyed Maud’s adventures, but each story contained the same plot elements. Little old lady takes revenge on those who wronged her. Somehow she manages to play dumb each time and get away with murder.
This is a fun collection of short stories, but unfortunately it did not wow me.
3/5 stars
May 11, 2019
88 year old no-nonsense Maud is a former teacher living rent free (thanks to a legal technicality after her father passed away when she was 18) in a spacious apartment in Gothenburg, Sweden.
In a series of short stories, we learn about Maud's life and her penchant for murder. While most people see a feeble minded elderly lady who is half deaf and lacking the strength to hurt a fly, Maud uses this illusion to her advantage as she surfs the net for useful information on a stolen laptop and travels the world with the money she has saved up over the years.
A young celebrity sets her sights on Maud's amazing apartment? Maud's not going to let that happen.
Her former lover that she hasn't seen in decades is about to marry a woman half his age? Maud will deal with that train wreck.
The upstairs neighbor wants to beat his wife and ruin Christmas? Maud's not going to take it.
An antiques dealer thinks he can take advantage of a frail old lady with a collection of valuable heirlooms? Maud says think again!
This is such a fun and original collection of short stories surrounding the twilight years of a clever and calculating woman who uses old age as a disguise to deliver justice to those who dare to get on her bad side.
Thanks to Soho Crime and Edelweiss for providing me with a DRC in exchange for my honest review. An Elderly Lady is Up to No Good is scheduled for release on November 6, 2018.
For more full reviews, visit www.rootsandreads.wordpress.com
In a series of short stories, we learn about Maud's life and her penchant for murder. While most people see a feeble minded elderly lady who is half deaf and lacking the strength to hurt a fly, Maud uses this illusion to her advantage as she surfs the net for useful information on a stolen laptop and travels the world with the money she has saved up over the years.
A young celebrity sets her sights on Maud's amazing apartment? Maud's not going to let that happen.
Her former lover that she hasn't seen in decades is about to marry a woman half his age? Maud will deal with that train wreck.
The upstairs neighbor wants to beat his wife and ruin Christmas? Maud's not going to take it.
An antiques dealer thinks he can take advantage of a frail old lady with a collection of valuable heirlooms? Maud says think again!
This is such a fun and original collection of short stories surrounding the twilight years of a clever and calculating woman who uses old age as a disguise to deliver justice to those who dare to get on her bad side.
Thanks to Soho Crime and Edelweiss for providing me with a DRC in exchange for my honest review. An Elderly Lady is Up to No Good is scheduled for release on November 6, 2018.
For more full reviews, visit www.rootsandreads.wordpress.com
December 29, 2021
The second book of stories about The Elderly Lady was on my TBR, and someone who has figured out how to access my GR lists while shopping at BN bought me both the first and second for Christmas.
A perfect gift! The Elderly Lady, her attitude, and her manner of resolving any inconvenience that arises in her life all appealed to me enormously. And on top of that, this book of stories was short enough that I was able to spend two hours on Christmas day reading in print and chuckling to my heart's content.
I don't normally enjoy short stories, but I do enjoy reading about feisty old women. And laughing. Recommended for other readers who enjoy those same things. Can't wait to read the second book.
A perfect gift! The Elderly Lady, her attitude, and her manner of resolving any inconvenience that arises in her life all appealed to me enormously. And on top of that, this book of stories was short enough that I was able to spend two hours on Christmas day reading in print and chuckling to my heart's content.
I don't normally enjoy short stories, but I do enjoy reading about feisty old women. And laughing. Recommended for other readers who enjoy those same things. Can't wait to read the second book.
January 26, 2022
What a fun and entertaining read! I loved 88 year old Maud! This book is a collection of five short stories involving Maud, murdering people that mess with her peaceful quiet life. She is spunky, clever and you do not want to upset her!
January 31, 2019
4 stars
What a charming little book. Translated from Swedish, being made into a TV series in Sweden, I feel cheated that we are not also getting it in the United States.
Eighty-eight year old Maud is just a little devil. Set, and solitary, in her ways and always looking for the solution to her next problem. That solution, involving a bit of murder, does not dissuade her.
Humorous to the point of laughing out loud funny, this book is light, relaxed and enjoyable. The entertainment value far exceeds the minimal amount of pages in this little gem. Not one to be missed.
What a charming little book. Translated from Swedish, being made into a TV series in Sweden, I feel cheated that we are not also getting it in the United States.
Eighty-eight year old Maud is just a little devil. Set, and solitary, in her ways and always looking for the solution to her next problem. That solution, involving a bit of murder, does not dissuade her.
Humorous to the point of laughing out loud funny, this book is light, relaxed and enjoyable. The entertainment value far exceeds the minimal amount of pages in this little gem. Not one to be missed.
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