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mazza57's review against another edition
2.0
This is a murder mystery that takes much from the style, setting and characterisation of Agatha christie's novels. However it felt much harder work and very confusing at times although everything was wrapped up nicely in the end
stagasaurus's review against another edition
2.0
Took too long to get started for me. Solution was too ridiculous and unworkoutable which always feels like a cheat. Also, Anderson is so obviously trying to be an Agatha Christie copy that you can't help but compare, and he doesn't quite compare unfortunately. Christie could have written this book in a hundred fewer pages.
However, I did care about Jane, so that shows some skill.
However, I did care about Jane, so that shows some skill.
quietjenn's review against another edition
4.0
Quite the corker of a mystery, golden-age inspired, though written in the seventies. A decade whose chief influence on the tale seems to be a Columbo-inspired inspector who attempts (grumpily, reluctantly) to untangle the Country House mystery that involves murder, blackmail, national security and more. Really delightful and I can't wait to read the sequel.
mistrum_crowe's review against another edition
3.0
There are a lot of things that don't work for me, and it can be primarily boiled down to a lack of detail in the clues and the extent to which the audience's knowledge is undermined by poor characterisation. At the same time though, it is still an enjoyable read. If you're a fan of the cosy mystery, then this should make a harmless enough addition to your reading list. Just don't pick it up if you want an equal chance of solving it at the same time as the detective.
michoubonn's review against another edition
2.0
Well, no, I did not finish it - I stopped in chapter 5 or 6 because this novel failed to grip me. Too many boring men speaking about things hushhush. As I am always on the lookout for golden age crime stories I wanted to like it. Perhaps I will give it another try, next time I'll be sick and bored ...
bev_reads_mysteries's review against another edition
5.0
I love country house cozies and this send up of the Golden Age is wonderful!
verityw's review against another edition
5.0
I loved, loved, loved this book. Honestly, I was nearly late for work I was so desparate to finish it. Sad I know, but it's in the grand vein of Poirot and Miss Marple - both of whom I love - and I just wanted to know who did it (and I'd've never worked it out either!)
cmbohn's review against another edition
4.0
I really enjoyed this book. The characters were a lot of fun and the mystery kept me guessing. Like the others in this series, just when you think you've figured one thing out, several new twists occur.
I didn't enjoy it quite as much as the others. It didn't seem quite as funny. But I love Inspector Wilkins and everyone else.
CMB
I didn't enjoy it quite as much as the others. It didn't seem quite as funny. But I love Inspector Wilkins and everyone else.
CMB