ISBN: 0745157297 Order from: Amazon.com Barnes & Noble.com
The novel that starts with an unlikely coincidence continues with a series of mysterious clues and amusing vignettes, bringing the satisfaction of an intellectual puzzle without too much emotional intensity.
Reviewed by David on January 02, 2004
Genre: Mystery (Amatuer Sleuth)
Synopsis: This is an unabridged recording of Police at the Funeral.
Albert Campion, a man who occasionally helps the police in sensitive cases, and Inspector Oates are confronted by a truly puzzling murder among the high-class occupants of Socrates Close. The gracious mansion, rules with an iron hand by the elderly but brilliant widow of a celebrated Cambridge don, seems to be filled with vague fears and clear resentments.
Campion, as a guest, has a much better view than the police, but even he is baffled as first one crime, than another take place seemingly without possible culprits.
Full Review: A well-drawn, frequently witty portrayal of an upper class house filled with petty intrugues and possibly murderous resentments, this novel excells in intellectual challenge. Campion himself, along with a few others are well portrayed and sympathetic, but, for the most part, the sympathy for the characters is subtle. In fact so subtle, that it's not easy to care intensely about the characters' fate. And yet, such is the author's skill that by the end of the book even the unlikable characters gain some measure of charm.
In all, this is a literate, satisfying read, with gems of witty humor and deft portrayal. Its only downfall is the lack of emotional intensity that accompanies this mostly intellectual investigation.
Overall: 6; Plot: 6; Characters: 5.5; Style: 6; World-building: 6; Originality: 6;
Copyright date 1931, Chivers Audio Books (Audio Editions Mystery Masters), 1989, Audio cassette, 8 cassettes
ISBN: 0745157297 Order from: Amazon.com Barnes & Noble.com