I thought it was really entertaining too, Les. And I do like the picture of university life at the time that it offers. Innes does, I think, an effective job depicting internal school politics.

I hadn't read Rees before either, Les. I love it that publishers like The Resurrected Press are making these books available again; there are so many authors like Rees, who deserve a wider audience.

Those are some great fictional detective couples, Les. As I think about it, there is something about the marriage dynamic that can add layers and richness to a series. I think, for instance of Agatha Christie's Tommy and Tuppence Beresford - a terrific couple in my opinion. Lots of food for thought here, so thanks.

Les - As always, thanks for a fine review. I always like learning as I read, and it sounds as though this has quite a lot of interesting information in it. And that it's a well-plotted mystery makes it even better.

Glad to see you featuring a Rex Stout story, Les. I've always felt that the Wolfe/Goodwin partnership was particularly well-written. And this story's no exception.

I agree with you, Les. Heyer used wit and solid dialogue very effectively in her series. This is a good example of that.

I couldn't be happier, Les, that these great classic stories are being brought back. And thanks for reminding us of this review of yours, too. I need to go back and re-read some Crispin...

Les - Trust you to share an author who perhaps isn't well known, but who nonetheless had talent. Thanks; I think I'm already benefiting from your participation in the Vintage challenge :-)

Les - I agree with you about this one being one of Marsh's stronger entries into this series. Along with the well-taken points you've brought up here, I've always liked Marsh's use of dialogue and wit. In my opinion, both come through here.

So good to hear that the 'Bony' novels will be re-released! That's a treasure trove of stories, Les, and I'm glad you've highlighted one of them.

Looking forward to what you'll have for us this year, Les!

Les - This one is an interesting case of Miss Marple doing 'armchair detecting,' isn't it? And I think Christie did a fine job of setting up the story so that would be credibly possible. And you're right: this one's not one of her lighter novels. There is a sadder, darker note here. It's a nicely-done novel.

Congratulations and well done, Les! Most impressive!

Les - So glad you highlighted this one. There's a reason certain books are considered 'foundational' or 'classic' books. This is one of those.

Les - One of the many things I like about GA/classic mysteries is that there were some great plots that didn't necessarily deal with murder. To keep the reader's attention throughout a 'theft plot' takes a deft hand, and you don't see that as much these days. It happens, but I think less often.

Les - You've nailed it about Allingham's versatility. As you say, she did all sorts of terrific plots, and she had lots of creative ideas. Some, I honestly think, worked better than others, but she did some very effective GA-style thrillers.

Les - Some of the Perry Mason novels really are solid mysteries as well as being legal stories. Glad you highlighted this one.

Les - I like the context and the setting. Those fine old department stores are great! But I have to say I'm with you when it comes to believable plot twists. I carry my disbelief with me wherever I go. Still, as I say, the context is appealing...

Les - Ah, there's nothing quite like a JDC Gideon Fell mystery to challenge the wits of the armchair detective, is there? And the great thing is, I like Fell's character too.

Les - I like this one very much too. Not so thrilled about the racism in it, but then, it was the product of its times. That aside, I really do like the premise, the building tension and of course the solution.

There is definitely something about the 'country house' mystery isn't there, Les? I've always thought that the best ones are just excellent examples of the whodunit (and sometimes, the howdunit). Thanks for highlighting this one.

Les - Oh, I'm very glad you mentioned a Bude novel. In my opinion, his work doesn't get enough attention. And your edition has the added appeal of an Edwards introduction too! Very nice - I'm a big fan of his work.

Les - I got the word on that too, and it's exciting news. Nice to know there are companies working to keep those classics available.

Les - I've always like this one quite a lot too. You're quite right that the puzzle itself is interesting, and the solution 'fits.' I also like the interactions among the various members of the Crackenthorpe family. Oh, and I love the character of Lucy Eyelesbarrow :-) Thanks for reminding us of this one. :-)

Les - I'll admit I prefer mysteries with 'fair play.' Still, this one does sound appealing, and I like historical crime fiction. One for my list, methinks.