Friday, April 12, 2019

The Return of Mr. Campion by Margery Allingham

The Return of Mr. Campion is a series of short stories with the Margery Allingham style. She was one of the best writers of her day and many Author's have listed her as a favorite. Not all of the stories contain Albert Campion and in fact they are a mixed bag but I enjoyed each and every one. The insight into her writing life is especially interesting and with short stories you can go at your own pace.

I recommend this and really enjoyed reading it. Readers of the Golden Era of writing should take note of these.

Blurb:
In this fantastic collection of thirteen short stories, Margery Allingham explores both the Mystery and the other genres it has allowed her to write.

From a portrait of her leading man to classic capers, and from traditional British mysteries to wonderful literary short stories, Allingham displays her wit, her humour, and her prowess not just as a Mystery writer but as a storyteller.

Published thirty years after it’s first publication, The Return of Mr Campion proves that both The Mystery and Allingham, are still everywhere.

Monday, April 1, 2019

A Blunt Instrument by Georgette Heyer

Georgette Heyer, has added another witty, solid mystery to her Collection. Although, this Book was written in the Golden Era of Mystery the characters are still fun for today. Nigel has languid charm, Sally writes mysteries but wears a monocle, Helen, her sister is one of the suspects. There are all the usual interactions and red herrings to make this a new favorite of mine.

Heyer, famous for her Regencies turned out just as good a mystery. PC Glass whose every word is a quote from the bible made me laugh several times. The cast is strong in this one. An old -favorite, Superintendent Hannasyde, is on the trail through lies, bad alibis and murky comings and goings. Somehow it all makes for delicious reading.
Five Stars... 


Blurb:

Who would kill the perfect gentleman?

When Ernest Fletcher is found bludgeoned to death in his study, everyone is shocked and mystified: Ernest was well liked and respected, so who would have a motive for killing him?
Superintendent Hannasyde, with consummate skill, uncovers one dirty little secret after another, and with them, a host of people who all have reasons for wanting Fletcher dead. Then, a second murder is committed, giving a grotesque twist to a very unusual case, and Hannasyde realizes he's up against a killer on a mission...

"Ranks alongside such incomparable whodunnit authors as Christie, Marsh, Tey, and Allingham."—San Francisco Chronicle

"Given the chance I could happily devour a stack of her novels one after the other."—A Work In Progress

"A few things that you are guaranteed when you pick up a Georgette Heyer novel of any kind are unique characters and a fast-paced plot."—We Be Reading