Hand In Glove by Ngaio Marsh: A Review by Warren Bull
Hand In Glove by Ngaio Marsh: A Review by Warren Bull
Originally published in 1962, Hand In Glove is the twenty-second novel by the author featuring Superintendent Roderick Alleyn of new Scotland Yard. Marsh wrote thirty-three mystery novels and published as late as the early 1980s.
In this novel there are a noblewoman with a reputation for throwing wild parties and changing husbands, a angry young lord with bizarre ideas and a man who sends a letter of condolence one day before the death of the subject of the letter. These characters, however, are not as interesting as the detective who, like many of the suspects, is a member of the upper class.
Marsh’s observations of the upper class and their foibles is implicit in this novel. Her continuing command of the English language and of the elements of a mystery are evident. A review in The New York Times notes, “She writes better than Christie.” A good argument could be made for that review.
All in all this is a well-written mystery that plays fair with readers. It is also, in my opinion, not her best writing. I recommend it highly, but if you want to read just one of Marsh’s novel, this is probably not the best choice.
Originally published in 1962, Hand In Glove is the twenty-second novel by the author featuring Superintendent Roderick Alleyn of new Scotland Yard. Marsh wrote thirty-three mystery novels and published as late as the early 1980s.
In this novel there are a noblewoman with a reputation for throwing wild parties and changing husbands, a angry young lord with bizarre ideas and a man who sends a letter of condolence one day before the death of the subject of the letter. These characters, however, are not as interesting as the detective who, like many of the suspects, is a member of the upper class.
Marsh’s observations of the upper class and their foibles is implicit in this novel. Her continuing command of the English language and of the elements of a mystery are evident. A review in The New York Times notes, “She writes better than Christie.” A good argument could be made for that review.
All in all this is a well-written mystery that plays fair with readers. It is also, in my opinion, not her best writing. I recommend it highly, but if you want to read just one of Marsh’s novel, this is probably not the best choice.
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