Strong on clever puzzles and stereotypes, this just pre-war mystery has moments of wit, but they are weaker than the convoluted plot and sitcom comedy.
Reviewed by David on July 02, 2005
Genre: Mystery
Synopsis: The book has some charm, particularly in the occasionally witty dialogue and satirical portrayal of late-thirties, provincial movie business in England. However, the humor often becomes overdone with sitcom-style exaggerations and misunderstanding, and many of the characters are flat and stereotypical. In most cases, the characters function more to carry the ingenious plot twists than to behave like real people.
The combination of weak characters and convoluted if clever plot result in a mediocre reading experience from the master of locked-room mystery.
Overall: 4.5; Plot: 5; Characters: 4.5; Style: 5; World-building: 5; Originality: 6;
Copyright date 1941, Chivers Audio Books, 1989, Audio Cassette, 6 cassettes
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