1B

If you've read the first 3 books in the series were you surprised to meet Vera in the very first sentence/word?

Yes...and in a bathing suit no less. Not sure from Ann Cleeves' description of Vera that that would be something I would want to dwell on for too long. I just imagine TV Vera.

I was surprised at how quickly we saw Vera. Usually she's much later in the book after we've met several of the other characters.

I was surprised that she showed in the first chapter. Was glad that she was starting to be a little more health conscience.

Very surprising to see Vera in the book form the first word, very different to the first book. And quite an introspective Vera as well. Loved the humour in this early section.

Based on the previous three books, it was definitely unusual to see Vera so soon - a large detour from Ann's usual formula.
And a definite change to the feel of the story: as you say, Andrew, this one had plenty of humour in the opening section; I found it quite laugh-out-loud funny.

>6 Sergeirocks: Me too, physically laughed out loud at some points in this section.

I was laughing at her description of the aqua aerobics group. I just bought a flowery bathing suit for my upcoming vacation after I had a manicure and pedicure.

I was glad to see Vera right at the start. A big change, like jumping straight into the water without sticking a toe in to test the temperature.

Compared to the other books, especially the first one, it's like jumping in the deep end.