No 1 best seller “The Madness of Crowds” is Louise Penny’s 17th novel. She wrote this during the pandemic but the story takes place post-pandemic. In Three Pines hugs and gatherings are the norm and all our familiar characters are back. The residuals of the pandemic life are just beneath the surface. Chief Inspector Gamache is dealing with pandemic horrors that will stay with him forever. We are forced to question our own values and beliefs when a charismatic scientist proposes the practice of euthanasia . Her followers are easily lead and vote seeking politicians are quick to join the movement - sound familiar? It is a madness. This is a darker story, not an enjoyable escape but a very worthwhile read.