Definitely the best of the novels so far. A 5 star is generous but it's part nostalgia and part an interesting mystery. The combination of the older character of Sharona was great. The mystery itself felt like it had actual stakes due to Sharona's absent connection to the characters. 

Characters: Monk is Monk. Lots of over the top characterization of OCD. Natalie is more fleshed out with a full range of emotions with her forming a new friendship, and coming to terms with her relationship with Monk. Sharona is great and spot on to her character in the show. 

Plot: The mystery was great! Of course there are red herrings that come along with any mystery, but as this book presents the accused is innocent from the beginning, everyone becomes a suspect and it works. The ending actually surprised me because it is definitely something the reader could figure out if they read carefully but it is so subtle I doubt anyone did. 

This is actually one I would consider reading again.